Being a rookie in his fourth NBA game and getting tapped to play as a starter is a big deal. But Nique Clifford earned that shot through exceptional preseason play and being ready for the big show. A series of injuries to the Kings' starters didn't hurt his situation, either.
Going into their final preseason game, the Kings were short Domantas Sabonis, Keegan Murray, DeMar DeRozan, and Malik Monk due to varied injuries and illnesses. Russell Westbrook also didn't play, though that wasn't as big a deal as he's brand-spanking new to the Kings' roster.
Keegan Murray's injury caused him to miss the previous preseason game with the Clippers and will keep him out for several weeks.