Jordan Clarkson arrived in New York last summer expecting to help a contender, yet by the February trade deadline the veteran guard was no longer part of coach Mike Brown’s regular rotation. Despite the reduced role, Clarkson said he never requested a trade or buyout, explaining that he prefers to “stay locked in” and focus on winning.
The 31-year-old’s turnaround began March 15 in Utah, where he delivered 27 points in 26 minutes, grabbed five offensive rebounds and provided tight defense to spark a comeback victory. Since then, he has become a key contributor off the bench as the Knicks moved within one win of the Eastern Conference finals.
New York’s reserve unit tipped the balance again Friday in Philadelphia. Clarkson, Landry Shamet, Mitchell Robinson and Jose Alvarado combined for 28 points and 14 rebounds, powering a 106-98 Game 3 victory that gave the Knicks a 3-0 series lead. Brown said the performance validated his “stay-ready” approach, noting that different players have started at various points this postseason.
Shamet Fills In for Anunoby
With OG Anunoby sidelined by a strained right hamstring, Shamet logged more than 26 minutes and scored 15 points—surpassing his total from New York’s previous six playoff games combined. The fifth-year guard was part of the closing lineup and said the extended run “felt good” as the Knicks moved to the brink of the conference finals.
Anunoby remains listed as questionable for Sunday’s Game 4 in Philadelphia. Miles McBride replaced him in the starting group Friday but played only 21 minutes.
Bridges Containing Maxey
Mikal Bridges’ defense on Tyrese Maxey has also shaped the series. Maxey, who averaged 28.4 points during the regular season, is down to 18.6 points through three games, shooting 2-for-12 from beyond the arc with 12 turnovers. “He’s doing an amazing job,” teammate Josh Hart said, praising Bridges’ work navigating screens and still contributing on offense.
Source: Hoops Rumors
