Oklahoma City Thunder acquire Nique Clifford from Sacramento Kings, Digi Mart USA News: On Sunday, the OKC Thunder finally pulled the trigger in the trade market and acquired wing Nique Clifford from the Sacramento Kings. The move was far from a swing for the fences, as it cost GM Sam Presti just two second-round picks.
Clifford had long been working his way out of the Kings’ rotation before the deal, and it should provide the former first-rounder with a fresh start. In short, the move should work out nicely for all parties involved.
While Clifford should receive a legitimate opportunity in Oklahoma City, the trade is a reminder of what the Thunder have already lost this season. The sophomore demonstrated his multifaceted ability to defend, rebound, and score at Colorado State, a skillset reminiscent of the Thunder’s Jalen Williams, but he has yet to translate it to the professional level.
Hopefully, the developmental work of coach Mark Daigneault and his staff can help get the best out of their new asset. It would not be the first time OKC has maximized the talent of an overlooked player.
Even if Clifford does pan out, however, he will not come close to matching the production that has already been lost. The Thunder have continued their winning ways despite Williams’ absence, but the reality is he possesses a one-of-one kind of ability, and no amount of outside help will replace it.
The acquisition of Clifford is more than likely a thought experiment from the front office. More of a project at this point in his career, Clifford still presents a potential ceiling that the Thunder could tap into, as seen with last season’s trade for Jared McCain.
If the move fails to pan out, it would not be a surprise to see Oklahoma City continue hunting for ways to improve its roster.
Nique Clifford will certainly need to prove his worth if he wishes to revive his career. Players such as Kenrich Williams, Bennett Stirtz, and Josh Dix are currently vying for minutes on the wings, so there is no guarantee the young player will be able to walk into a free role.
However, the acquisition is another excellent low-risk move by Sam Presti. If the project fails, the Thunder will have lost only two second-round picks.
But if Presti strikes gold again, the Thunder will have another young standout under contract for years to come, adding to their already deep core.
