After a strong run to the Eastern Conference Finals in the 2025 NBA Playoffs, the New York Knicks weren’t satisfied with just making it to the final four—they’re looking to take it all the way next season. To push their championship aspirations further, they’ve made some key changes to the roster, including signing former LA Lakers star Jordan Clarkson on a one-year deal.
Jordan Clarkson had spent nearly six seasons with the Utah Jazz, but with the team entering a rebuilding phase, the 33-year-old veteran was ready to chase an NBA title elsewhere. What’s fascinating, though, is how quickly Clarkson made his decision to join the Knicks.
While attending a Carlos Alcaraz match at Wimbledon, Clarkson received the call, and in what he describes as an instant decision, he finalized his move to New York. “I said, ‘I wanna come to New York.’ It all happened in two minutes. Then I was a Knick,” Clarkson told The New York Post.
Clarkson’s Excitement About Joining the Knicks
For Clarkson, playing at Madison Square Garden was a huge draw. “The arena, honestly, feeling the energy from the fans,” he explained. “Knowing they’re going to let you have it if you’re playing like s–t. But when you’re playing great, it’s all love. At the end of the day, I just want to feel the energy.”
He’s also excited to play alongside Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart, two key pieces of the Knicks’ success. “Get to play with y’all [Brunson and Hart],” Clarkson said, expressing his eagerness to integrate with his new teammates.
Clarkson’s Role with the Knicks
With his 2020-21 NBA Sixth Man of the Year award and a career average of 16.0 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game, Clarkson brings invaluable experience to the Knicks’ bench. His versatility and scoring ability will be crucial for New York, and Josh Hart believes Clarkson is exactly what the team needs right now.
At this stage in his career, Clarkson isn’t just looking to be a contributor—he wants to enhance the Knicks’ current success. “Y’all been doing great things over here. I just want to come in here and enhance what y’all got going on,” Clarkson said of his role.
As the 2025-26 NBA season approaches, the Knicks are looking to build on their playoff run, and with a player like Clarkson joining their roster, they’ve added an experienced veteran who knows how to make an impact. Expect Clarkson to bring his scoring prowess and leadership to a team that’s hungry for a championship.
