New York Knicks eye veteran center Jonas Valančiūnas and plan to re‑sign guard Jordan Clarkson

The New York Knicks have added two‑time All‑Star Andre Drummond on a one‑year deal to replace Mitchell Robinson, but they have not closed the door on further front‑court depth. NBA sources say the Denver Nuggets continue to shop veteran center Jonas Valančiūnas, whose $10 million contract next season could drop to $2 million if waived before July 8, and the Knicks remain a potential destination for a third experienced big man.

At the same time, the Knicks are targeting a veteran guard contract for Jordan Clarkson. With roughly $6.5 million of cap space under the league’s “second‑apron” limit, the team could re‑sign the 34‑year‑old on a veteran‑minimum deal, keeping a seasoned backup option for the upcoming season. Clarkson previously spent a year with New York after being waived by the Utah Jazz and contributed off the bench in the 2026 NBA Finals.

Both moves reflect the Knicks’ strategy to bolster depth while preserving salary flexibility as they prepare for the next campaign.