Jordan Clarkson, Knicks agree to one-year deal, source confirms
Knicks guard Jordan Clarkson controls the ball against the Charlotte Hornets during the first half of an NBA game at Madison Square Garden on April 12. Credit: Kathleen Malone-Van Dyke
The Knicks continued to lock up the pieces from their NBA title run as they agreed to terms with Jordan Clarkson on a one-year veteran minimum deal worth $3.9 million Thursday, according to a league source.
With Clarkson’s signing, the Knicks have brought back every rotation player other than Mitchell Robinson, who left for Boston as an unrestricted free agent.
Clarkson’s deal counts as $2.449 million against the cap, leaving the Knicks approximately $3.3 million below the second apron with one roster spot to fill.
The Knicks also lost Ariel Hukporti to Philadelphia in free agency and have only two centers on the roster with the signing of Andre Drummond, so that final spot could be for a big man.
Clarkson joined the Knicks last summer after negotiating a buyout with the Utah Jazz. He dropped out of the rotation but resurfaced when given an opportunity in a game in Utah, where he received a video tribute and an emotional welcome from the crowd. He scored 27 points in 26 minutes to spur a comeback win.
Clarkson earned his minutes by remaking his game, becoming a fiery defensive guard while still creating offense on his own.
After the Utah game, Jalen Brunson noted that Clarkson’s ability to stay ready was an example not just to the young players but to all players, as the Knicks’ roster was filled with players who contributed at different times.
“It’s just who he is. He comes in and works every single day,” Brunson said. “It’s just who he is, what he’s been able to do throughout his career. Just being able to talk to him all the time has been a joy to have him as a teammate, and I love him.
“It can be an example for anybody. It doesn’t matter where you are in your career. Things may not be going your way. Continue to work and continue to persevere. You never know when things are going to fall into place.”
Steve Popper covers the Knicks for Newsday. He has spent nearly three decades covering the Knicks and the NBA, along with just about every sports team in the New York metropolitan area.
