NBA legend Jamal Crawford believes New York Knicks guard Jordan Clarkson will capture his second Sixth Man of the Year award, citing the team’s depth and success as key factors.
The New York Knicks enter the 2025-26 NBA season with momentum and sky-high expectations after reaching the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in 25 years.
Led by Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, both fresh off All-Star selections, the Knicks are built not just around star power, but depth and versatility — two elements that could make them serious NBA Finals contenders.
Among their offseason moves, one addition stands out as potentially pivotal: Jordan Clarkson, whose arrival has already drawn bold praise from one of the league’s most respected voices.
Jamal Crawford’s Bold Prediction for Clarkson
Three-time Sixth Man of the Year and current NBA analyst Jamal Crawford believes Clarkson is primed to reclaim his former glory — and perhaps even surpass it — in a Knicks uniform.
“I like Jordan Clarkson in New York (to win Sixth Man of the Year),” Crawford said during an appearance on NBA TV.
“The formula is, you can be successful off the bench or in any role that you’re up for an award, but your team has to have team success. I think (head coach Mike Brown) is going to utilize his bench a lot, and I think guys like Clarkson will have the green light to do what he does.”
Crawford added that Clarkson’s style fits perfectly with New York’s offensive system, calling him “a sixth starter” — a player who can step in seamlessly and provide instant offense.
Clarkson’s Proven Track Record
At 33 years old, Jordan Clarkson remains one of the NBA’s most dynamic bench scorers.
He previously won the Sixth Man of the Year Award in 2020-21 as a member of the Utah Jazz, averaging 18.4 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.5 assists on a 54.9% true shooting percentage across 68 games.
Now, after signing a one-year, $3.6 million contract with New York, Clarkson is expected to anchor the Knicks’ second unit, providing scoring relief when Jalen Brunson rests.
His ability to create shots in isolation and spark momentum offensively makes him a perfect fit for the high-energy Knicks bench.
Why the Knicks Are the Perfect Fit for Clarkson
Crawford’s reasoning goes beyond Clarkson’s individual talent — he sees the team environment as crucial to winning the award.
New York’s bench is expected to play a major role under Mike Brown, who values rotation depth and balanced minutes across his roster. Clarkson’s experience, combined with the Knicks’ winning culture, creates a scenario where his impact will be magnified.
“When you do well in that market, everything is amplified,” Crawford explained.
In other words, success in Madison Square Garden resonates differently. A strong season from Clarkson could elevate him not just statistically, but also in narrative — a key component in award voting.
Crawford Knows What It Takes
When it comes to the Sixth Man of the Year Award, few voices carry as much weight as Jamal Crawford’s.
Across a 20-year NBA career, Crawford became one of the most decorated bench players in league history, capturing the award three times while averaging 12.4 points over 894 games off the bench.
His endorsement of Clarkson as a favorite adds credibility — and intrigue — to what could be one of the most compelling subplots of the Knicks’ 2025-26 campaign.
If Crawford’s prediction comes true, Jordan Clarkson could etch his name alongside elite company while helping the Knicks chase their first NBA title since 1973.
