Jordan Clarkson Embraces Diminished Role in Return to Utah

Former Sixth Man of the Year looks forward to 'happiness and joy' of reunion with Jazz fans despite reduced playing time with Knicks

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Jordan Clarkson, the former Sixth Man of the Year with the Utah Jazz, is returning to Salt Lake City on Wednesday with a diminished role off the bench for the New York Knicks. Clarkson, who spent 5 1/2 seasons with the Jazz, said he's looking forward to the 'happiness and joy' of his reunion with the organization and fans, even though his playing time and production have declined significantly this season. The Knicks acquired Clarkson in the offseason as they aim to win an NBA championship, while the Jazz have prioritized losing as part of a rebuilding effort.

Why it matters

Clarkson's return to Utah highlights the changing fortunes of both the Jazz and Knicks franchises. After making six straight playoff appearances and twice advancing to the second round under former coach Quin Snyder, the Jazz are now in a rebuilding mode, while the Knicks have emerged as a title contender. Clarkson's reduced role with the Knicks also raises questions about how veteran players adapt to diminished playing time as their teams' priorities shift.

The details

Clarkson was the spark-plug scorer off the bench for the Jazz, even winning the NBA's Sixth Man of the Year award in 2021. However, his opportunities have dwindled with the Knicks as coach Mike Brown has prioritized Landry Shamet and focused on improving the team's defense. Clarkson's minutes, points, shot attempts and assists are all at career lows this season. Despite the reduced role, Clarkson said he's not harping on the lack of playing time and is focused on helping the Knicks win a championship.

  • Clarkson secured a buyout from the Jazz in the offseason as the final holdover of a more successful era.
  • Clarkson lashed out at fans on social media after a game in Boston on Feb. 8, but has otherwise taken the high road.

The players

Jordan Clarkson

A backup guard for the New York Knicks who spent 5 1/2 successful seasons with the Utah Jazz, winning the NBA's Sixth Man of the Year award in 2021.

Quin Snyder

The former head coach of the Utah Jazz, under whom Clarkson thrived as a spark-plug scorer off the bench.

Mike Brown

The current head coach of the New York Knicks, who has reduced Clarkson's playing time and opportunities in favor of other players like Landry Shamet.

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What they’re saying

“I ain't coming in expecting anything, honestly. A lot of people made expectations on my arrival and what I can do and what I've done my whole career. But not knowing anything, I came here with an open canvas. I just knew one goal and what we wanted to do, and that's to win.”

— Jordan Clarkson, Knicks Guard (New York Post)

“That's a home for me. I loved the organization. I love the coaching staff. Yeah, I love the city. All I had was love there. So going back, I don't know what my emotions are going to be. I'm going to try to keep my cool in terms of not feeling [emotional], just all the gratitude and everything that the city is giving me.”

— Jordan Clarkson, Knicks Guard (New York Post)

What’s next

Clarkson is expected to receive a warm welcome from Jazz fans in Salt Lake City, though it remains to be seen how much playing time he will receive in the game.

The takeaway

Clarkson's return to Utah highlights the changing fortunes of both franchises, as the Jazz rebuild while the Knicks aim to win a championship. Despite his reduced role, Clarkson's professionalism and focus on winning with the Knicks have been commendable, showcasing his adaptability as a veteran player.