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Last updated: 9/30/2019
Last updated: 9/30/2019
Last updated: 9/30/2019
Summary
Despite having the reputation as an inefficient gunner, Clarkson has actually had an above-average points per shot attempt each of the last four seasons, according to Cleaning the Glass. After being traded to the Jazz, Clarkson greatly helped add some scoring punch to a bench mob that lacked shot creation. Clarkson is a solid spotup threat, but can also create shots late in the clock if necessary. He has developed some craftiness inside to create space for short jumpers. He also showed some real improvement in his effort and focus on defense for the Jazz in the playoffs.
Clarkson is almost entirely an isolation player, as he rarely creates for others. If Clarkson can develop more of a pick-and-roll game, he could establish himself as a Lou Williams-type contributor. While Clarkson's talents only fit in on certain teams, his scoring ability should earn him a solid contract this offseason.
Cap Considerations
Clarkson will be an unrestricted free agent with full Bird rights and a $20.2 million cap hold. Since the Jazz will likely be operating over the salary cap, they will retain Clarkson's Bird rights, and have no restrictions on re-signing him. Therefore, Clarkson has some leverage in that the Jazz may be deciding between re-signing Clarkson or letting him leave with no cap space to replace him.
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The Jazz would have the full $9.3 million Non-Taxpayer Mid-Level exception, but could be getting close to the luxury tax if they re-sign Clarkson and use the full MLE to add talent.
If Clarkson demands a starting salary of greater than $9.3 million, only teams with cap space will be able to sign Clarkson. If Clarkson and an above-the cap team have mutual interest, sign-and-trade options can be explored.
Potential Teams: Jazz, Wizards, Timberwolves, Bulls, Hawks
Predicted Contract: 2-year, $20 million with the Jazz
Actual Contract: 4-year, $52 million (player option) with the Jazz
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I had a feeling my prediction was a little lower, and that Clarkson could get in the $12-$13 million range, but I definitely didn't expect him to get that amount of money on a four-year deal, and a player option as well. He certainly had some leverage on the Jazz since they had no option to replace him if he left.
Last updated: 12/31/2020
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