Nique Clifford Already Learning from All-Star Teammates

LaVine is definitely a tough shot maker. Some nights it doesn't matter if there's a hand right in his face, the ball can find the basket. And that's a good lesson for Clifford to learn on the defensive side of the ball.

Players are so talented in the NBA that even perfect defense can't stop a player at times. Having someone with that skill level on the team in LaVine seems to already be helping Clifford prepare for that level of competition in the NBA.

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And it's not just LaVine, but DeRozan as well that Clifford is learning from. It works out great that DeRozan and LaVine have such different styles to their offenses. They are both certified 'bucket-getters,' but DeRozan has a slower methodical approach where he gets to his spot and finds his shot.

"It's huge man. I get to watch him work on that every day. It's special how simple it is," Clifford stated. "He has a simple game but it's super effective. Just getting to watch that and learn the pace that he plays at is something that I could definitely use in my game going forward into some years. But that's definitely a guy I get to learn a lot from."

One of the things that rookies generally have to learn once they reach the NBA is how to slow down. Everything happens so fast in the league that they can look rushed, but DeRozan is the exact opposite. He's smooth and calm at all times, and Clifford getting to learn and see that first hand could give him a huge boost early in his career.

Many were hoping that the Kings would trade all of their veterans this offseason and lean into their young players, but that's not how the offseason shook out with the team going for as many wins as possible. Playing time is always great for rookies and young players, but learning from two All-Stars who play the same position as you is a pretty great way to enter the league as well.