Where Nique Clifford Could Land Among OKC Thunder In-Season Trades

A New Wing Option

The Thunder traded two second-round picks to Sacramento for Clifford, a 2025 first-round pick. The move also led Oklahoma City to waive Dalen Terry, who had recently joined the team to fill its 15th roster spot during a run of injuries.

Jalen Williams, Cason Wallace and Chet Holmgren have missed significant time, but Oklahoma City has recovered from two straight losses and stands 8-2. Clifford may give coach Mark Daigneault another wing to consider as he builds lineups.

Mixed Results From Past Deals

The Thunder have used two-way players in their rotation, but Clifford is not guaranteed significant minutes or success. The team’s previous in-season deals offer examples of different outcomes.

Oklahoma City acquired Jared McCain ahead of the 2025-26 trade deadline, and he made a major impact last season and could contribute in coming years. But not every in-season move by general manager Sam Presti has worked out.

Hayward’s Brief Thunder Impact

Hayward averaged 14.5 points, 4.7 rebounds, 4.6 assists and 1.1 steals in 25 games with the Hornets, shooting 46.8% from the field and 36.1% from three. In 26 games with Oklahoma City, he averaged 5.3 points, 2.5 rebounds and 1.6 assists.

Clifford’s Early Numbers

Clifford, the No. 24 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, is 24 and joins a young Thunder roster. In his rookie season, he averaged 8.6 points, 3.8 rebounds and 2.4 assists, shooting 41.8% from the field and 33.3% from three.

Through eight games in 2026-27, the former Colorado State standout is averaging 1.6 points and one assist per game. His shooting is down to 35.3% from the field and 12.5% from beyond the arc, though a new setting and system could help him regain form.