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Versatile wing is the Timberwolves' latest pre-draft workout

The Wolves recently worked out Nique Clifford.
ByEamon Cassels|
Feb 15, 2025; Fort Collins, Colorado, USA; Colorado State Rams guard Nique Clifford (10) reacts after a play in the second half against the Wyoming Cowboys at Moby Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
Feb 15, 2025; Fort Collins, Colorado, USA; Colorado State Rams guard Nique Clifford (10) reacts after a play in the second half against the Wyoming Cowboys at Moby Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images | Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

The NBA Draft takes place on June 25th, and with that date quickly approaching, teams are working out a multitude of players. Recently, the Minnesota Timberwolves worked out Colorado State's Nique Clifford. According to HoopsHype, Clifford is the 12th prospect Minnesota has worked out. However, Clifford and Georgia's Asa Newell are the only prospects the Wolves have worked out that are realistic targets with the 17th pick. Let's dive into Clifford's fit with the Wolves.

Clifford's all-around skill set

Clifford has been linked to the Wolves for a long time, and it's easy to see why. The 6-foot-6 wing is one of the most well-rounded and NBA-ready prospects in the draft. This past season, he averaged 18.9 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 4.4 assists on 49.6/37.7/77.7 shooting splits. In addition to shooting 37.7 percent from beyond the arc, Nique netted 40 percent of his catch-and-shoot attempts. Clifford's abilities as a spot-up shooter and defender make him a quintessential glue guy who impacts winning at a high level. He fits in perfectly with the Wolves' defensive-minded culture and provides some needed 3-point shooting.

Furthermore, Clifford makes an impact as a rebounder, playmaker, and shot-creator. Averaging nearly 10 rebounds a game is rare for a player of Clifford's size and gives him similarities to Josh Hart. Clifford is a connective playmaker who can handle the ball if needed. He is also a powerful finisher at the rim and a competent shot-creator. The Wolves could use playmaking and creation next to Anthony Edwards. Clifford's ability to contribute to every facet of the game makes him an ideal target for the Wolves. Overall, Clifford has no clear flaws as a prospect and would be a great value pick at 17.

Clifford is a clear fit with the Wolves

At 23, with an all-around skill set, Clifford could play quality minutes from day one. With Nickeil Alexander-Walker's pending free agency, bolstering wing depth would be a proactive move. The Wolves have some candidates to replace Alexander-Walker on their roster, including Terrence Shannon Jr. and Jaylen Clark. However, they aren't as well-rounded as Clifford. From a shooting, defense, and secondary playmaking standpoint, it's easy to see how Clifford could fill Alexander-Walker's role.

The Wolves working out Clifford certainly shows they have a high level of interest, especially given they haven't worked out a ton of prospects. Ultimately, as the draft nears, expect the Wolves to continue working out prospects that they'll target with the 17th pick. Nevertheless, Clifford appears to be a clear and realistic target for the Wolves.

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