Knicks Rumors: Pros And Cons Of Pursuing Jordan Clarkson

Pro: Upside

The New York Knicks have a rare opportunity to sign a free agent to a long-term deal and develop them over time. Jordan Clarkson has already established his immediate value as a quality scorer and explosive athlete, but at 24 years old, he still has room to grow at both guard positions.

That may not cater to a 32-year-old Carmelo Anthony on paper, but on the court, it could bridge the gap between he and the 20-year-old Kristaps Porzingis.

If Clarkson remains the player that he is today, then he can be a productive scorer who offers a bit of everything in that regard. If developed and aided in the honing of his skills, however, he could potentially flirt with an average of 20 points per game.

For those doubting that potential, Clarkson already averaged 16 points per contest while sitting in a tie for the third-highest usage rate on a team that didn’t move the ball well.

Against the odds, Clarkson excelled as a rookie and produced in his second season on a team that didn’t exactly play to his strengths. The Los Angeles Lakers fed the ball to Kobe Bryant, and often deferred to D’Angelo Russell and Lou Williams before giving Clarkson a chance.

In the right system, Clarkson could break out as a scorer and playmaker in 2016-17.

must read: What are the pros and cons of pursuing Rajon Rondo?

There are some concerning aspects pertaining to Clarkson’s game, but his athleticism, upside, and fit in Jeff Hornacek’s system are legitimate reasons for intrigue and interest.