NBA8 Nov 20261 minute read

Thunder Acquire Nique Clifford From Kings for Draft Picks

The Oklahoma City Thunder traded two future second round draft picks to the Sacramento Kings for second year wing Nique Clifford.

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Thunder Add Wing Depth After Trade With Kings

The Oklahoma City Thunder and Sacramento Kings kicked off trade season on Sunday with a deal. Oklahoma City acquired second year wing Nique Clifford from Sacramento. In return, the Kings received a 2028 second round pick via Utah and a 2030 second round pick via Minnesota.

Injuries have tested the depth of the Thunder roster alongside reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Before this trade, Oklahoma City held 21 future second round draft picks. Trading two of those picks gives them immediate depth on the wing for the regular season. Clifford could also fit into the Thunder player development system to expand his role over time. Oklahoma City earned a B grade for the move.

Kings Move On From Clifford After Short Stint

Sacramento earned a C minus grade for trading Clifford away. On draft night in 2025, the Kings traded a protected future first round pick to get the No. 24 pick and select Clifford. Less than 18 months later, they sent him back to Oklahoma City for two second round picks.

Clifford played well as a rookie. He averaged 8.6 points, 3.8 rebounds and 2.4 assists in 25.1 minutes per game while posting the best on/off swing in the rotation. His playing time dropped quickly in his second year to just 6.3 minutes and 1.6 points per game. The 24 year old was buried on the bench before this trade. With three months left until the Feb. 11 NBA trade deadline, more deals across the league are expected as the season continues.

What it means for the next game

Miami Heat at Sacramento Kings (NBA, Mon, 09 Nov): Sacramento Kings win 21%, Miami Heat win 79%; projected score Sacramento Kings 114, Miami Heat 124. Our safest pick: Heat to win.

Orlando Magic at Sacramento Kings (NBA, Wed, 11 Nov): Sacramento Kings win 29%, Orlando Magic win 71%; projected score Sacramento Kings 112, Orlando Magic 119. Our safest pick: Magic +1.5.