Breaking Down Jordan Clarkson’s 14-point, 5 rebound game

Julius Randle wasn’t the only player to get off to a solid start.  Jordan Clarkson did as well.  His shooting may indicate otherwise, but game-tape would show solid shot selection, aggression towards the basket, and knocking down perimeter shots within the flow of the offense.

Jordan Clarkson shot 3 of 13 from the field, 2 of 4 behind the arc, and hit all 6 of his free throw attempts.  Thanks to Yahoo Sports for providing the box score.

Jordan Clarkson was substituted into the game for Kobe Bryant.  He came in late in the first quarter.  Thanks to GD’s Latest Highlights for the video.

He first NBA field goal was an open 3-point attempt at the corner.  Lin and Randle ran a pick and roll situation, and the help defender rotated to Randle when the screen wasn’t set.  Clarkson hit the shot with ease.

At the 34 second mark, Lin found Clarkson again, this time in semi-transition for another open three-point shot.

At the 54 second mark, Lin found Clarkson again, also in transition, and Clarkson finished with the dunk.

Guess who Jeremy Lin‘s favorite guard-target is?

The 1:03 mark is important.  Julius Randle gets the ball and pushes the ball up in transition.  Jordan Clarkson is downcourt and attacks with aggression.  He goes up strong for the dunk attempt.  Despite the miss, the aggression and energy were shown.

While the highlight video shows the made shots, it doesn’t show the mistakes.  Julius Randle let the game come to him.  Clarkson, on the other hand, took on the same mentality from the Vegas Pro League.  He relentlessly attacked the basket. While he was getting in the paint, he was facing quicker, larger defenders.  He missed multiple floaters from farther out.

Other shots were created from the perimeter.  While he tried to use some of the footwork that he learned from this workout, none of the shots dropped.  He focused on his footwork to get an open look, but couldn’t get his base right for proper lift on his jumper.

The shots didn’t drop for him.  His poise did show through.  He was comfortable at either guard spot.  There were times when Ellington or Lin were pressed defensively.  Clarkson had no issues initiating the offense.

Like Julius Randle, the potential is there.  He can focus on hitting open shots and being an opportunistic slasher.  Considering his height and length, there is potential to add versatility to his isolation game.  That will come in time.

Soon enough, he’ll get better court recognition and become a better playmaker.  He is exceeding the expectations of a typical mid-2nd round pick.

What do you think of Jordan Clarkson?  Can he steal playing time by mid-season?  What do you think he needs to work on?  Please leave comments below.