Nique Clifford shows promise in Kings preseason opener against Lakers

Nique Clifford, selected by the Sacramento Kings as the 24th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, began the 2026-27 preseason with a strong performance against the Los Angeles Lakers, scoring 23 points. Despite his efforts, the Kings lost the game, raising questions about his ability to maintain consistency. Having averaged 8.6 points per game in his rookie season, Clifford aims to build on this as the new season approaches. With competition for playing time intensifying from teammates like Emanuel Sharp and Alex Karaban, Clifford must prove his value as a dependable two-way player. The Kings will face the Lakers again on Thursday night.

• 7:22 PMYahoo Sports — Year 2 Is Crucial For Nique Clifford And The Sacramento Kings