Veteran guard Jordan Clarkson, set to become an unrestricted free agent, may return to the New York Knicks for the 2026-27 season. A source close to the situation indicated a reunion is possible, stating, “Don’t rule out a Jordan Clarkson reunion,” even with the team’s strict mandate to remain below the second luxury tax apron.
This suggests there is mutual interest between the player and the organisation, though any new deal would need to navigate New York’s tight financial constraints. Clarkson, 34, recently completed a one-year, $2.3 million contract with the club.
During the Knicks’ championship-winning 2025-26 season, Clarkson accepted a limited role. He provided scoring off the bench, appearing in 72 regular-season games but starting only once. The former Sixth Man of the Year averaged 8.6 points and 17.8 minutes per contest, serving as a secondary shot creator behind a dominant starting unit featuring Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns. His playing time was often inconsistent as the team relied heavily on its core rotation.
New York finished with a 53-29 record and the third seed in the Eastern Conference before defeating the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA Finals. For Clarkson to return, he would likely need to accept another contract well below his career earnings average. The decision will hinge on whether he prioritises a continued role with a contending team over a more lucrative offer that may become available elsewhere in the league.
