Reflecting on Nique Clifford’s NBA Summer League showing

Nique Clifford just finished off his second NBA Summer League, and while his numbers don’t jump off the page, there were some flashes–both good and bad–during his time in Las Vegas.

Clifford, the 24th pick in last year’s NBA Draft, was a key rotation piece in Doug Christie’s 2025-26 rotation, averaging 8.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 0.9 steals per game while shooting 41 percent from the field and 33 percent from deep over 75 appearances (28 starts).

General manager Scott Perry was very high on Clifford leading into draft day last summer, causing the longtime executive to trade into the first round and select the Colorado State product.

Here’s what Nique Clifford did in Summer League, with some thoughts on the wing’s potential moving forward.

Nique Clifford #5 of the Sacramento Kings in action against the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena on December 28, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)

Thoughts on Nique Clifford’s 2026 NBA Summer League

Nique Clifford had somewhat of an up-and-down Summer League.

Over three games, the first-round pick from last summer averaged 10.7 points, 2.7 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.0 steals per game on 41/30/83 shooting splits.

At times, Clifford actually brought the ball up and initiated the offense, something that he did last season when the Kings were shorthanded at the point guard spot, and something that general manager Scott Perry has said is a possibility for the second-year guard.

Clifford appeared passive at times rather than aggressive, but he’s the type of player who always tries to play within himself and avoid forcing plays.

Still, he turned the ball over more than he should have and his shooting numbers–much like most of Sacramento’s roster–were lower than anticipated, especially for a second-year player.

Thankfully, Clifford at least delivered one of the Kings’ signature moments of the summer during the California Classic, a game-winning triple off an assist from Darius Acuff Jr.

DARIUS ACUFF TO NIQUE CLIFFORD FOR THE WIN. 🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/GKaf87S3O3

— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) July 4, 2026

Sacramento is going to need more from Clifford this season, especially on the defensive end.

With DeMar DeRozan out of the picture, the Kings have an open spot in the starting lineup alongside Darius Acuff Jr., Zach LaVine, Keegan Murray, and Domantas Sabonis. Nique Clifford and De’Andre Hunter will be in the mix for that last spot–likely the starting small forward position.

Hunter appears to have a leg up as of now, but a big training camp and preseason could make things interesting.

Even if he isn’t a starter, Nique Clifford is the type of player this team needs for depth, especially considering his interchangeability at the point guard, shooting guard, and small forward spots.

Proving he can defend multiple positions, be a knock-down threat from deep, and potentially even an emergency ball-handler would only add to his value in Year 2.

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What is the next Sacramento Kings Offseason Event?

The start of the 2026-27 season is quickly approaching for the Sacramento Kings.

Sacramento will begin training camp in late September as they prepare to begin preseason play on Monday, October 5th when they face Luka Doncic and the new-look Los Angeles Lakers at Golden 1 Center.

Be sure to stay tuned into Sactown Sports all offseason for roster updates, schedule announcements, analysis, and much more.

Upcoming Sacramento Kings Offseason Schedule

• August TBD – 2026-27 NBA Schedule release
• Late September – NBA training camps begin

Sacramento Kings 2026-27 Preseason Schedule

• Monday, October 5th vs. Los Angeles Lakers (7 P.M. PST)
• Thursday, October 8th @ Los Angeles Lakers (7:30 P.M. PST)
• Saturday, October 10th @ Golden State Warriors (5:30 P.M. PST)
• Tuesday, October 13th vs. Portland Trail Blazers (7:00 P.M. PST)
• Friday, October 16th @ San Antonio Spurs (7:00 P.M. PST)

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