Kings trading Nique Clifford to Thunder for two second-round picks

The Kings are trading second-year wing Nique Clifford to the Thunder for two second-round picks, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania⁠.

Sacramento will receive the Jazz’s 2028 second-round pick and the Timberwolves’ 2030 second-rounder, The Athletic’s Sam Amick reported.

The Kings worked with Clifford to find a new destination after he fell out of the rotation, per Charania. He has averaged just 6.3 minutes in eight appearances this season for Sacramento, which is off to a 1-8 start.

Clifford, 24, was a regular contributor as a rookie, averaging 8.6 points, 3.8 rebounds and 2.4 assists in 75 games. He played 25.1 minutes per game and shot 41.8 percent from the field, including 33.3 percent on 3-pointers.

The Thunder originally selected Clifford with the No. 24 pick in the 2025 draft before trading his rights to the Kings for a top-16-protected 2027 first-round pick belonging to the Spurs.

Oklahoma City will retain that pick while bringing Clifford back into the organization.

The Thunder must clear a roster spot to complete the acquisition. Dalen Terry, who recently signed a non-guaranteed contract, is a potential candidate to be waived, SI.com’s Rylan Stiles noted. No corresponding move has been announced.

According to ESPN’s Bobby Marks, the Thunder will absorb Clifford’s $3.26 million salary using a trade exception.

The deal will leave the Kings with 13 players on standard contracts, creating an additional roster opening and more room below the luxury tax line.