Knicks Preview: Clarkson - the most important gun off the bench

Two seasons ago, just before the 2024 NBA trade deadline, I wrote an article arguing that the Knicks should trade for Jordan Clarkson. The team needs bench depth and scoring ability, and I think Clarkson's style of play, coupled with his personal style, is what the Madison Square Garden crowd will appreciate. I wrote it with sincerity and a touch of humor, but it ended up drawing more criticism than anything I've ever published.

Eighteen months later, I couldn't be happier to see him become a member of the Knicks. Of course he is 33 years old, but his competitive status has not declined at all. I know there were nights where he would take 15 shots and not make a single shot. But there are also many nights when he suddenly breaks out and scores consecutively, showing off his fiery form.

Clarkson's production has been steadily declining over the past three seasons, and just three years ago, he was averaging nearly 21 points per game as the Jazz's starting guard. Injuries have affected his consistency since then, but he still provides valuable scoring ability when healthy.

After averaging just under 17 points in 28 minutes per game off the bench over the past two seasons while shooting around 40 percent from the field, it's no secret that he was brought in for his level of offensive prowess, and Clarkson could bring the kind of energy to the Knicks' second unit since Immanuel Quickley left.

At the age of 33, he has only played 153 games in the past three seasons due to injury restrictions. The addition of Clarkson comes with a certain risk. The Knicks acknowledged this risk by signing Malcolm Brogdon to increase the stability of the backcourt lineup. Brogdon is not expected to take up too much of Clarkson's playing time, but the Knicks now have a reliable backup option if Clarkson is sidelined by injury again.

Last season, the Knicks' bench ranked 30th in the league in both playing time and scoring. Clarkson is expected to improve these two statistics. He is a very pure scorer. He just takes the ball when he comes on the court. Most of his eleven-year career has been played as a substitute, but he has maintained a starting-level average time and shots per game.

Clarkson has a strong sense of presence in the game. As long as he is on the court, his influence can be felt and he can always create opportunities. Although he needs to integrate and run in at the beginning of the season, Clarkson has always only insisted on his own style of play, which is what the Knicks lack. The Knicks need him to be himself to surpass last season's results.

Clarkson also said: The key lies in communication. I will stick to my own characteristics under the existing system and use this as my foundation. At the same time, we will make adjustments when necessary to truly integrate into the team and play in the right way. We will definitely find a way. As the season progresses, my teammates will naturally understand that as long as the pass comes to my hands, I will take action immediately. Most of the time I think I am open, but I must choose reasonable opportunities to take action without hurting the team.

While there are still questions about many spots in the Knicks' rotation, both as starters and as role players, for now Clarkson's role is certain. He will come on as a backup shooting guard and fans can expect him to play approximately 25-30 minutes per game. There are nights that might drive us all crazy, but I can also guarantee there are nights that he will become another beloved player on the Knicks.