What Can Nique Clifford Bring To The Thunder?

Sometimes the best moves aren’t necessarily the ones that grab everyone’s attention. The Oklahoma City Thunder aren’t adding a superstar by acquiring Nique Clifford from the Sacramento Kings, but they might be adding someone who can help them in more ways than people realize.

Oklahoma City sent two second-round picks to Sacramento for Clifford, giving the injury-plagued Thunder another young player who could benefit from an opportunity with a new team. With several important pieces missing from the rotation, this is an opportunity for Clifford to show what he can bring to a team with championship aspirations.

One of the first things that stands out about Clifford is his versatility on the defensive end. At 6-foot-5 with a 6-foot-8 wingspan, he has the size and length to make life difficult for opposing guards and wings. He’s an active defender who isn’t afraid to get physical, and those are qualities Oklahoma City has consistently looked for when bringing players into its system.

The timing of this move is important, too. With Jalen Williams and Cason Wallace sidelined, the Thunder could use another perimeter defender who can take on different assignments. Clifford isn’t going to replace what either player provides, but he gives Mark Daigneault another option as he tries to piece together a rotation.

There is more to his game than just defense, though.

Clifford averaged 9.6 rebounds per game during his final season at Colorado State. That’s impressive production for a player his size, and it shows a willingness to get involved in areas that don’t always receive much attention. Oklahoma City has always valued guards and wings who can rebound, push the pace and create opportunities in transition. Clifford has the potential to contribute in all three areas.

His offensive game is another reason to be interested in the acquisition. During his final collegiate season, Clifford averaged 18.9 points and 4.4 assists while shooting approximately 38% from three-point range. He’s capable of attacking the basket, knocking down open shots and making plays for teammates.

Playing alongside Shai Gilgeous-Alexander could give him an opportunity to make an impact without having to carry a heavy offensive workload. Defenses are going to continue putting plenty of attention on Gilgeous-Alexander, and Oklahoma City needs players who can make them pay when that attention creates opportunities elsewhere.

Clifford doesn’t have to be someone who takes 15 shots every night. If he can knock down open looks, attack defenders when they close out and make the extra pass, he’ll give the Thunder another useful offensive option.

There is also something to be said about the price Oklahoma City paid. Two second-round picks aren’t insignificant, but acquiring a young player with NBA experience and several areas of potential development is a reasonable investment for a franchise trying to maximize its roster.

There are no guarantees Clifford becomes a regular part of the rotation. He still has to earn those minutes and show that his strengths can translate consistently at the NBA level.

But that’s what makes this move interesting.

The Thunder aren’t asking him to come in and save their season. They’re giving him an opportunity to find a role on a team that values versatility, effort and players who can impact the game without needing everything to run through them.

For two second-round picks, Oklahoma City has added another young player worth developing. Sometimes that’s all a good roster move needs to be.