'The Energy From the Fans' – New York Knicks Guard Explains Reason Behind Decision to Join the Team

In an interview with The New York Post’s Stefan Bondy, Clarkson revealed that he wanted to play for the New York Knicks while watching a Carlos Alcaraz match at Wimbledon. He informed his agent, Rich Paul, about continuing his career in one of the league’s biggest markets.

Clarkson also revealed that the arena and the fans are some of the main reasons behind his decision.

“The arena, honestly,” the Filipino-American guard said.

“Feeling the energy from the fans. Knowing they’re going to let you have it if you’re playing like [expletive]. But when you’re playing great, it’s all love. At the end of the day, I just want to feel the energy. Get to play with [Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart].”

Knicks fans believe they got a steal in signing Clarkson to a one-year deal, given that he has averaged above 15 points over the past six seasons.

NBA insider believes Jordan Clarkson could help the New York Knicks’ star player with his scoring

Last season, the New York Knicks were a top-heavy team. That is why head coach Tom Thibodeau had most of the starters on the floor, playing for a substantial amount of minutes.

The team’s bench scoring was one of the major concerns entering free agency. With the acquisition of Clarkson, NBA insider Howard Beck believes he can help take some load off of Jalen Brunson.

“I think he’s a great pickup, and I pick Jordan Clarkson for Sixth Man of the Year,”Beck said.

“He’s got a chance to take some of that burden off of Brunson. They can play together. He can run the offense when Brunson is resting.”

The Knicks were the last team in bench scoring the previous season with 21.7 points. With Clarkson, they look to change that and give their starters a chance to rest.