Clarkson comes to the Knicks as a potential replacement for Landry Shamet, who hit free agency after one season in New York. Bleacher Report writer Andy Bailey graded the signing, giving the Knicks a "B" for the move.

Clarkson said some of his style inspirations came from retired NBA guard Brandon Jennings, former NBA MVP Russell Westbrook and rapper Pharrell, the current men’s creative director for Louis Vuitton.