Why the Nuggets are the Biggest Losers in Thunder’s Trade for Nique Clifford

The writer argues that the Denver Nuggets suffered a major setback by failing to acquire wing Nique Clifford, who was traded by the Sacramento Kings to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Oklahoma City acquired Clifford in exchange for two second-round draft picks. The Nuggets and Los Angeles Lakers both reportedly attempted to trade for Clifford before the Thunder secured the deal.

Bobby Krivitsky writes that Denver missed an ideal opportunity to add an affordable, dynamic defensive wing and secondary playmaker to complement Nikola Jokic despite having limited financial flexibility. The writer also criticizes Sacramento for moving Clifford early in his career and praises Thunder executive Sam Presti for capitalizing on the deal.