Jordan Clarkson, who averaged 16.2 points and 3.7 assists for the Utah Jazz last season, is set to join the New York Knicks following a contract buyout. The veteran guard, known for his scoring prowess off the bench and as the 2020-21 Sixth Man of the Year, will significantly bolster the Knicks' lackluster bench scoring, which was the least productive in the NBA last season. With the ability to relieve franchise player Jalen Brunson, Clarkson's late-game playmaking skills will be crucial for New York's closing lineups.

The Jazz are restructuring their roster, having already waived Johnny Juzang and traded Collin Sexton to the Charlotte Hornets. Entering a new era, Utah has drafted young talents like Ace Bailey and Walter Clayton Jr., positioning Clarkson's departure as a pivotal step in their transition. The Knicks, with Clarkson now on their roster, will hope to leverage his experience and scoring ability as they aim for a deeper playoff push.

The New York Knicks are navigating a transformative offseason, highlighted by their pursuit of a new head coach after parting ways with Tom Thibodeau, a move that surprised many given his success last season. As the only NBA team without a head coach, the Knicks have also made significant roster adjustments.

During the recent 2025 NBA Draft, the Knicks selected Mohamed Diawara with the 51st overall pick and subsequently signed undrafted free agent Dink Pate. In a notable free agency move, they are reportedly set to sign veteran guard Jordan Clarkson after he clears waivers. Clarkson, known for his scoring ability, averaged over 15 points per game since the 2018-19 season, adding depth to the Knicks' bench and enhancing their offensive options.

The New York Knicks are anticipated to have a quieter offseason compared to last year's blockbuster trades, focusing on filling gaps rather than making major moves. A key player in their sights is Jordan Clarkson, recently released by the Utah Jazz, who desires to join a contender. Reports suggest that a deal could be imminent once Clarkson clears waivers. As the Knicks prepare for the 2025-26 season, their core remains intact after a successful run, yet they aim to enhance their bench scoring, which is currently reliant on Jalen Brunson and the starters.

Adding Clarkson, who averaged 16.2 points and 3.7 assists with solid shooting percentages last season, could provide the scoring depth the Knicks desperately need. His experience as a former Sixth Man of the Year positions him as a crucial asset in alleviating pressure from the starting unit. Should the Knicks secure Clarkson on a minimum contract, they would retain flexibility to pursue additional talent, thereby solidifying their status as contenders in a competitive Eastern Conference.

Jordan Clarkson has officially entered the free-agent market after negotiating a buyout with the Utah Jazz. The 6-foot-4 shooting guard is looking to join a contending team after spending several seasons with the Jazz, where he played a crucial role alongside stars like Donovan Mitchell. Last season, Clarkson averaged 16.2 points, 3.7 assists, and 3.2 rebounds, showcasing his scoring ability even on a struggling team. Despite missing games due to injuries in recent seasons, his talent remains undeniable, making him a hot commodity for playoff teams.

With free agency set to begin soon, teams in need of a versatile scorer off the bench will likely compete for his services. Clarkson's experience and skill set make him an asset for any contender wanting to bolster their roster.

Jordan Clarkson is poised to become an unrestricted free agent after finalizing a contract buyout with the Utah Jazz. The 33-year-old guard, who averaged 16.2 points and 3.7 assists last season, has established himself as one of the premier bench scorers in the NBA, even earning the Sixth Man of the Year award in 2021. As the last remnant of the Jazz's previous playoff era, Clarkson will explore opportunities with contending teams, with interest already anticipated from several playoff-bound franchises.

In related news, the Jazz are releasing Johnny Juzang, marking a significant roster shift after acquiring two promising young guards during the recent draft. This move comes on the heels of Utah trading Collin Sexton to the Charlotte Hornets for Jusuf Nurkic, signaling a shift towards rebuilding and injecting fresh talent into the lineup.