Colorado State's Nique Clifford has been linked to the Minnesota Timberwolves throughout the draft process. With the NBA Draft just three days away, it's clear that Clifford will be a target for the Wolves. As a fifth-year senior, Clifford averaged 18.9 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 4.4 assists on 49.6/37.7/77.7 shooting splits. Clifford's ability to contribute to all aspects of basketball makes him an intriguing option for the Wolves at pick 17.
Clifford's offensive impact
The 6-foot-6 wing is one of the most complete and NBA-ready prospects. Clifford projects to play an off-ball role in the NBA; his knack for spot-up shooting will be beneficial in this role. His cutting also gives him a source of offense and easy points at the rim. However, his ability to create shots and attack the rim adds an extra element of upside.
Furthermore, the 23-year-old is one of the better playmakers in the class. Clifford could play either a role as a connective passer who makes the right reads and extra passes or a secondary playmaker with more offensive responsibilities. Regardless, he'll make a positive impact as a playmaker at the NBA level. Clifford's blend of scoring, spot-up shooting, and playmaking makes him a clear fit next to Anthony Edwards. Impressively, Clifford posted a 26.8 assist percentage. Clifford posted an absurd +27.1 offensive on-off swing, which speaks volumes to his overall impact.
In a draft class filled with 19 year olds in the lottery, Nique Clifford should be a NO BRAINER lotto, maybe even top 10 pick.
— Ryan Hammer🔨 (@ryanhammer09) May 1, 2025
The ULTIMATE Swiss Army Knife that will translate so easily with a high floor + a ceiling that is higher than most perceive it to be⭐️ pic.twitter.com/uNPr95L6B4
Clifford's defensive impact
Undoubtedly, one of the common themes with Clifford's game is his elite basketball IQ and feel for the game. This skill set also helps Clifford on defense. He is a high-level defender both on and off the ball. Clifford's size, strength, and IQ allow him to guard multiple positions. As a result, he can shut down opposing perimeter and wing players. Off the ball, he is fairly disruptive, averaging 1.2 steals and 0.6 blocks. Additionally, Clifford is always in the right spot and rotates well as a help defender. Similar to his offensive impact, Clifford posted a -12.1 defensive on-off swing.
Clifford's rebounding has to be mentioned. 8.1 of Clifford's 9.6 rebounds were defensive, and his 26 defensive rebounding percentage ranks third in the class. Elite positioning, motor, and strength are central to Clifford's impact as a rebounder. Ultimately, Clifford is an easy sell for any team, especially a team trying to be competitive like the Wolves.
Nique Clifford: the definition of scalability + winning impact.
— Mohamed (@mcfNBA) May 23, 2025
95th %-ile in isolation scoring + as a P&R creator. Strong frame + defensive skill at 6’6 — made exceptional growth this season as a shooter (38% 3P), play finisher (65.6% rim FG) as well as a playmaker (1.65 A/TO). pic.twitter.com/vGSVOTAXxB
Is Clifford a realistic target for the Timberwolves?
As a projected mid to late first-round pick, Clifford is an attainable target for the Wolves. Considering he is one of the few prospects within this range that Minnesota has worked out, he is clearly toward the top of their board. With Nickeil Alexander-Walker likely leaving in free agency, wing depth could be a priority, especially if the Wolves don't feel like Terrence Shannon Jr. or Jaylen Clark are ready to step into that role.
Clifford's all-around impact makes him similar to Alexander-Walker. As a result, Clifford could be the perfect replacement for NAW. Clifford is one of the most polished prospects and could immediately impact winning basketball, which is ideal for the Timberwolves. When it's all said and done, don't be surprised if Nique Clifford's name is called at pick 17.