NBA Updates: Thunder Land Nique Clifford in Kings Trade, Lakers Send Bronny James Back to G League

The Oklahoma City Thunder have reportedly strengthened their backcourt by acquiring young guard Nique Clifford from the Sacramento Kings, while the Los Angeles Lakers have once again assigned Bronny James to their G League affiliate.

Both moves come as the teams look to manage their rosters during the early stages of the NBA season.

According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Oklahoma City secured Clifford in exchange for two second-round draft picks, adding another option to a squad dealing with several injury concerns.

The Thunder have been hit by long-term injuries to key players, including Jalen Williams, Cason Wallace and Chet Holmgren. Clifford’s arrival could provide much-needed depth as the team navigates those absences.

The 2025 NBA Draft’s 24th overall selection, Clifford had struggled to maintain a regular place in Sacramento’s rotation despite showing promise during his time with the franchise.

The sophomore guard featured in 75 games for the Kings, averaging 8.6 points per contest while shooting 41.8% from the field.

For Oklahoma City, the trade represents an opportunity to bring in a developing player who could benefit from increased playing time.

Meanwhile, the Lakers have made another roster adjustment by sending Bronny James to the Coachella Valley Lakers, their G League affiliate.

The franchise also assigned first-round selection Cameron Carr to the developmental team on Thursday.

Bronny, the eldest son of NBA superstar LeBron James, has moved regularly between the NBA and G League throughout his three-season professional career.

Despite the Lakers making an impressive 7-2 start, the young guard has struggled to secure meaningful minutes.

He has appeared in five games this season, averaging just 0.8 points in 2.4 minutes per appearance. His limited opportunities have largely come during the closing stages of games, with home supporters frequently calling for his introduction.

The Lakers retained Bronny despite LeBron’s departure to the Philadelphia 76ers last summer.

Across three NBA seasons, Bronny has made 74 appearances, although his performances in the G League have been considerably more productive.

Over the previous two seasons in the developmental competition, he averaged 18.4 points and 4.4 assists per game, demonstrating his ability to contribute when given extended minutes.

The Lakers have also relocated their G League affiliate from El Segundo to Acrisure Arena near Palm Springs.

The developmental side begins its regular season on Friday, the same day the NBA Lakers face Portland, one of only two teams to defeat them this season.

While Clifford begins a new chapter in Oklahoma City, Bronny will look to use another G League stint to strengthen his case for a bigger NBA role.