Lakers’ Nique Clifford trade interest should have gotten over the finish line

The Oklahoma City Thunder acquired Nique Clifford from the Sacramento Kings for two second-round picks, according to reports. HoopsHype reported that the Los Angeles Lakers and Denver Nuggets also showed interest in Clifford, but the Thunder ultimately completed the trade. Writer Jack Simone argues that the Lakers should have finalized a deal for the young guard.

Simone contends that despite limited draft capital, the Lakers could regret passing on Clifford's upside and defense alongside Austin Reaves and Luka Doncic. The 24-year-old was originally the 24th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.