Jordan Clarkson Fuels Knicks’ Title Hopes, Silencing Game Critics: ‘Locked In’
Jordan Clarkson is breathing new life into his career with the New York Knicks, revitalizing his game after a challenging stint with the Utah Jazz. At 33 years old, Clarkson faced scrutiny over his performance, particularly in efficiency and defense. The Knicks, with championship aspirations, have provided him with the motivation he needed to elevate his game.
Clarkson’s Transition to the Knicks
After consecutive seasons of decline, Clarkson joined the Knicks and quickly displayed renewed focus. In his own words, he stated, “It’s a level of focus. I’m glad to be back in this… and know that we’re playing for something.” His mindset has significantly shifted, positioning him as a reliable asset as the Knicks aim for the playoffs.
Performance Improvements
- In his first 12 games with the Knicks, Clarkson showed substantial improvement.
- His shooting percentage climbed to 39% from three-point range and 47% overall.
- Last season, with the Jazz, he struggled with just 30% from beyond the arc and 41% overall.
These figures reflect a remarkable turnaround from his previous performance with the Jazz, particularly given that he was only able to play 153 games over his last three seasons due to injuries and a poor team environment.
Different Playing Conditions
With the Jazz’s focus on rebuilding, Clarkson frequently had to create opportunities for himself, leading to difficult shots. In contrast, the Knicks’ system allows him to score effectively through catch-and-shoot opportunities, reducing his need for challenging pull-up attempts. “I think we generate a lot of good shots. They’re not just good — they’re great shots,” he noted.
Defensive Efforts and Mindset
Clarkson’s defensive rating stands at a respectable 115.1, the best since the 2022-23 season. This increase in defensive metrics is tied to a collective focus and cohesion within the team that motivates players to perform at higher levels.
Mikal Bridges, another player who joined the Knicks after a tanking situation with the Brooklyn Nets, emphasized that a winning environment creates a greater sense of accountability. “You can be more demanding on a winning team than a losing team,” he observed.
Looking Ahead
Clarkson remains committed to continuous improvement as the season progresses. He expressed a desire to peak in April, ahead of the playoffs. “In the playoffs, you have to make adjustments, but I think we’re starting to get a good feel of our offense and our defensive concepts,” he explained. The season is still young, and Clarkson and the Knicks have ample opportunity to fine-tune their game.
