Jordan Clarkson Thrives with Knicks After Jazz Struggles

MIAMI, FL — Jordan Clarkson is finding success with the New York Knicks after facing challenges in his last seasons with the Utah Jazz. Coming off two years of declining efficiency and defense, Clarkson, 33, has revitalized his career, contributing significantly to the Knicks’ playoff ambitions.

“It’s a level of focus. I’m glad to be back in this and part of this and back contending, be in the playoffs and know that we’re playing for something,” Clarkson said. His mindset has shifted dramatically since joining the Knicks, demonstrating increased efficiency in his game.

During his final seasons with the Jazz, Clarkson struggled as the team focused on rebuilding by unloading key players Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert. He missed 93 of his last 246 games with Utah. His shooting percentage fell below 30 percent from three-point range, and his overall shooting was just 41 percent last season. One NBA assistant criticized his defense, calling it “disgusting.”

Last season’s Jazz team was intent on losing to secure a better draft position, which affected veteran players like Clarkson. His value dropped to the point where the Jazz bought out his contract instead of trading him. Now, with the Knicks, Clarkson’s performance has improved significantly. Entering a game against the Miami Heat, he was shooting 39 percent from three and 47 percent overall, both potential career highs.

Clarkson’s scoring average has decreased from 16.2 points per game last season to 10.3 with the Knicks, but he is taking fewer shots per game. His turnovers have dropped from three per game last season to under one. Clarkson attributes this efficiency to the quality of shots he now receives in a selfless offensive system. “I just think it’s our system. I think we generate a lot of good shots,” he said. “They’re not just good — they’re great shots.”

With the Knicks, Clarkson can score more through catch-and-shoot opportunities rather than creating his own shots late in the shot clock. He reflected on his time with the Jazz: “I don’t get as many grenades [passes while defended].”

Defensively, Clarkson is also improving. He entered the game against Miami with a defensive rating of 115.1, his best since the 2022-23 season. “It’s just a different level of focus,” he said. “I’ve been to the playoffs, been to the Finals. Just getting back to that, it’s relieving.”

Teammate Mikal Bridges, who also transitioned from a tanking situation with the Brooklyn Nets to the Knicks, noted how winning cultures impact player performance. “You can be more demanding on a winning team than a losing team,” he said. “You’re focused on what you’re trying to get towards.”

Although Clarkson acknowledges that the team is improving, he sees a learning curve ahead. He emphasized the importance of peak performance in April, just in time for the playoffs. “We’re just getting to the foundation of what we’re doing. There’s definitely a lot more basketball to play,” Clarkson added.