Tension between District Attorney Nicholas Baxter and Executive Assistant District Attorney Nolan Price had been simmering for a while, but it finally erupted in Season 23, Episode 12 of . The two clashed during an emotional case, beginning with a disagreement on handling a murder case. Baxter, making it clear he wasn’t aiming to be the next Jack McCoy, voiced his frustrations. This heated exchange left both men on edge but also served as a necessary confrontation to clear the air.
The conflict centered around the murder of a psychologist who worked with criminals. Detectives Vincent Riley and Jalen Shaw linked the crime to Shawn Payne, a recently released rapist. Payne’s DNA was found at the crime scene, making it an open-and-shut case. For Price, the case was personal; he knew the victim and had negotiated Payne's short sentence to spare the rape victim further trauma.
Baxter questioned Price’s judgment, highlighting the consequences of the plea deal.
“You plead him out to five years? And he killed his counselor three days after he was out of prison?” Baxter probed. This pointed out the deadly miscalculation, intensifying the tension between the two men. Baxter, believing Price was compromised, decided to lead the case himself, pushing Price to second chair.
The trial was anything but straightforward. The defense shifted suspicion to the victim's boyfriend, revealing his violent past. This twist, combined with the upcoming election, added pressure on Baxter. Back in the office, the men argued. “Jack McCoy is gone,” Baxter shouted, addressing the underlying issue of McCoy's legacy affecting their relationship.
The argument allowed both to voice their frustrations.
Despite the clash, the argument seemed to release the built-up tension. Price admitted to ADA Samantha Maroun that Baxter was handling the trial well, showing signs of mutual respect. When the jury delivered a guilty verdict, Price and Baxter shook hands, indicating a fresh start.
“Well done, Nolan,” Baxter commended. “You too,” Price replied, adding, “I never thought you were a carnival barker.
” This resolution hinted at a new chapter in their professional relationship, with both men ready to move forward, united in their pursuit of justice.
To catch how the season unfolds, tune in to Thursdays at 8/7c on NBC or stream episodes the next day on Peacock.
