Clemson basketball is eyeing a promising future, with hopes pinned on center Viktor Lakhin and guard Chase Hunter as potential 2025 NBA Draft picks. Lakhin, who transferred last season, showcased his outside shooting ability with a 37.5% success rate from three-point territory, averaging 11.4 points and 1.5 blocks per game. Hunter, in his sixth season, contributed significantly with an impressive 16.5 points per game and a 40.7% shooting rate from beyond the arc.

If selected, either player would mark a notable achievement for the Tigers, as no Clemson player has been drafted since Hunter Tyson in 2023. Historically, Clemson has seen 19 players reach the NBA, with 14 being drafted. Their first-round draft picks include notable names like Sharone Wright, who was the highest at sixth overall in 1994, and Horace Grant, picked tenth overall in 1987. Clemson's draft legacy is further enriched by seven second-round selections, including Randy Mahaffey, the first player taken in the draft back in 1967.

The Yahoo fantasy basketball trade deadline is around the corner, and savvy managers are gearing up to make impactful trades ahead of the playoffs. Key players like Pascal Siakam from the Indiana Pacers, who is on track for another stellar season averaging over 20 points and 7 rebounds, are prime trade targets. With the Pacers aiming for a top-six seed, Siakam is set to maintain his high usage and performance.

Zach LaVine of the Sacramento Kings has also been impressive since joining the team, averaging 22.5 points per game and getting increased shot attempts due to Domantas Sabonis's injury. His shooting efficiency makes him a valuable asset for fantasy squads.

On the rise, Dyson Daniels from the Atlanta Hawks has stepped up in the absence of key players, showcasing his ability to contribute across multiple categories. However, managing the risk of trading away players like Paul George and Bradley Beal, who are struggling with injuries and on teams facing playoff uncertainties, may be wise.

Lastly, Walker Kessler from the Utah Jazz presents a dilemma, as his production is tempered by the team's strategy to lose out for better draft positioning, making him a potential sell-high candidate.

Nikola Jokic led the Denver Nuggets to a commanding 117-90 victory over the Phoenix Suns, scoring 32 points with 13 coming in a pivotal third quarter. Michael Porter Jr. added 24 points, while the Nuggets overcame the absence of Jamal Murray.

The Suns, dealing with injuries to Devin Booker and Grayson Allen, struggled offensively, relying heavily on Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal, who each scored 23 points. Denver's strong performance in the third quarter, where they outscored Phoenix 45-28, proved decisive.

The Denver Nuggets showcased a strong performance with a decisive 117-90 victory over the Phoenix Suns, marking their fifth win in six games. After a narrow halftime lead, the Nuggets dominated the third quarter, significantly improving their defensive play.

Despite Jamal Murray's absence due to a sprained ankle, Michael Porter Jr. stepped up with 24 points. Nikola Jokic led the scoring with 32 points, maintaining an impressive 3-point shooting percentage. The team is now gearing up for a rematch against the Suns on Christmas Day.

The Denver Nuggets will be without Aaron Gordon for several weeks due to a right calf strain sustained early in their recent game against the Toronto Raptors. This injury adds to the team's challenges as Jamal Murray is also sidelined with a concussion.

Gordon, who recently signed a lucrative contract extension, has been a key player, averaging 15.4 points and contributing significantly to the team's performance. Coach Michael Malone will need to adjust the lineup, potentially utilizing players like Peyton Watson, Hunter Tyson, Zeke Nnaji, and Dario Saric to fill the void.