BREAKING: Jordan Clarkson Expected to Sign with New York Knicks After Clearing Waivers, Sources Say
August 5, 2025 — New York, NY
In a surprising late-summer twist that could significantly bolster the New York Knicks’ backcourt depth and scoring punch, veteran guard Jordan Clarkson is expected to sign with the Knicks once he clears NBA free agency waivers, multiple league sources confirmed Tuesday.
Clarkson, who recently parted ways with the Utah Jazz after five seasons, is one of the most accomplished sixth men in the modern NBA — known for his dynamic scoring ability, microwave offense, and clutch shot-making. His potential arrival in Madison Square Garden immediately intensifies expectations for a Knicks team that has already been active this offseason in retooling its roster following its deep playoff run last season.
While the Knicks front office has not formally announced the deal, insiders familiar with the situation say the contract could be finalized within the next 48 hours, barring any unexpected waiver claims. The deal would likely be a short-term contract, potentially with team options, giving both sides flexibility while positioning Clarkson for another high-impact season.
A Proven Scorer With Playoff Experience
Jordan Clarkson, 31, brings over a decade of NBA experience to New York. Originally drafted in 2014 by the Washington Wizards (and traded to the Lakers on draft night), Clarkson quickly established himself as a scoring threat, averaging double-digit points in every season of his career.
He played for the Los Angeles Lakers, Cleveland Cavaliers, and most recently, the Utah Jazz, where he enjoyed the most consistent stretch of his career. In Utah, Clarkson won the NBA Sixth Man of the Year award in 2021, averaging 18.4 points off the bench and helping guide the Jazz to the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference.
Throughout his career, Clarkson has developed a reputation as one of the league’s premier isolation scorers and spot-up shooters, with the ability to heat up quickly — often flipping the momentum of games in mere minutes.
Last season, he averaged 16.7 points, 4.1 assists, and 3.3 rebounds per game for the Jazz, shooting 35.6% from three and 44.9% overall from the field. Despite battling injuries that limited him to 55 games, Clarkson remained one of Utah’s most dependable offensive weapons.
Why the Knicks?
Clarkson’s impending signing is the latest signal of the Knicks’ intent to compete at the highest level in the Eastern Conference. After reaching the Eastern Conference Finals last season for the first time in 25 years, the Knicks have been aggressive in surrounding their core — led by Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby, and Julius Randle — with veterans who can perform under playoff pressure.
Sources close to the situation say Clarkson’s camp was drawn to New York’s culture, coaching staff, and the opportunity to play on a big stage. Head coach Tom Thibodeau is believed to have personally endorsed the acquisition, citing Clarkson’s ability to create shots late in the clock and provide an offensive spark off the bench.
“Clarkson fits exactly what the Knicks need,” one NBA scout said. “They need scoring off the bench, a veteran who’s been in playoff wars, and someone who can take the pressure off Brunson and Quickley. He checks all those boxes.”
Depth, Flexibility, and Championship Aspirations
With Clarkson expected to join the Knicks, the team’s guard rotation suddenly becomes one of the deepest in the East. The move also offers flexibility — should the Knicks choose to stagger their rotations, Clarkson can play both guard spots and finish games when needed.
He will likely slot in as the primary sixth man, replacing some of the scoring void left by the departure of Donte DiVincenzo in a recent trade. Alongside Immanuel Quickley, the Knicks now boast a dangerous second unit capable of sustaining offensive production when the starters rest.
Additionally, Clarkson’s playoff experience — including a run to the 2023 Western Conference semifinals — brings valuable postseason know-how to a relatively young Knicks roster still learning how to win at the highest level.
Cap Implications and Team Outlook
From a financial standpoint, the Knicks have the mid-level exception available and could use part or all of it to sign Clarkson. If he clears waivers as expected, New York can negotiate favorable terms without sacrificing core assets or flexibility heading into the 2026 free agency period.
The Knicks’ front office, led by Leon Rose and Scott Perry, has made it clear they intend to build a sustainable contender without mortgaging the future. Clarkson’s addition reflects that philosophy — a low-risk, high-reward move that adds scoring, depth, and experience without disrupting chemistry.
With the East getting stronger — Milwaukee and Boston remain juggernauts, and Miami is always a threat — adding a proven scorer like Clarkson could be the edge New York needs to return to the Conference Finals or even push for their first NBA Finals appearance since 1999.
A New York State of Mind
For Jordan Clarkson, the move to New York represents a full-circle moment. After spending much of his career in the West, he now joins one of the NBA’s most iconic franchises at a time when the lights are brightest.
He will have the chance to play in front of sold-out crowds at Madison Square Garden, contribute to a team with genuine title aspirations, and remind the league why he remains one of the best bench scorers in the game.
If all goes according to plan, the Knicks just got a lot more dangerous.
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