New York, NY — The New York Knicks are in discussions to secure veteran guard Jordan Clarkson following his anticipated buyout by the Utah Jazz. Once he clears waivers, Clarkson is expected to sign with the Knicks for the veteran’s minimum, which could add a dynamic scoring option to the team’s second unit.
Clarkson’s potential move has sparked excitement, as he could bring a much-needed offensive spark to New York. Insiders indicate that the Knicks rank high on his preference list, with mutual interest in formalizing a deal. The team is in a position to offer Clarkson the taxpayer mid-level exception or the veteran’s minimum, essential options given their current salary cap situation.
The Jazz’s decision to part ways with Clarkson comes as part of a broader rebuilding strategy. At 33 years old, Clarkson no longer fits into Utah’s future plans, especially with a fresh roster of younger talents vying for playtime. His tenure with the Jazz, punctuated by moments of brilliance, has seen diminished returns recently, owing to injury issues and a decline in performance metrics.
Over the past season, Clarkson faced challenges due to injuries, limiting him to just 37 games. His shooting efficiency has also suffered, further complicating his standing in trade discussions. Despite attempts to move him, no viable offers emerged from other teams, leading Utah to consider a buyout as the most pragmatic solution.
If signed, Clarkson would join a Knicks team that struggled offensively during the playoffs. Their reliance on isolation plays often led to stagnation, as was evident in their second-round matchup against Detroit, where a lack of ball movement hampered their effectiveness. Clarkson’s ability to create his own shot could prove valuable in breaking down defenses that have troubled New York in high-stakes situations.
Despite being a multi-talented scorer, Clarkson does come with concerns, particularly on the defensive end. His defensive metrics rated him in the bottom tier last season, meaning that the Knicks would need to account for this weakness in their lineup. His track record of shooting under league averages from the floor raises questions about his efficiency as a primary scorer.
The Knicks also have other players in mind as they seek to solidify their bench. The impending buyout of Cole Anthony from the Memphis Grizzlies adds another layer to their decision-making, as he offers defense and shooting at a similar level. The Knicks may need to weigh the value of Clarkson against younger talents like Miles McBride and Tyler Kolek, who bring their own strengths, particularly in defense and playmaking.
If the Knicks finalize a deal, Clarkson’s experience and scoring prowess may help elevate their second unit, potentially providing the spark they need to advance deeper into the playoffs. Nonetheless, the move hinges on how well he can adapt to his new role and how effectively he can manage the wear and tear from injuries.
Expect an announcement regarding Clarkson’s signing in the coming days, as the Knicks aim to build a competitive roster for the upcoming season.