After an impressive second season with the Los Angeles Lakers, Jordan Clarkson signed a four-year, $50 million contract with the team. Although Clarkson’s long-term future with the Lakers is now secure, and he’s viewed as an important player for the franchise moving forward, the former second-round draft pick is far from satisfied with his play on the court and was on a mission to improve his game over the summer with the help of Pure Sweat trainer Drew Hanlen.
Clarkson has had a chip on his shoulder since falling to the second round of the NBA Draft in 2014. The 24-year-old saw many guards get drafted before him and has not forgotten getting passed over. Being overlooked in the draft as well as trying to prove himself on the NBA level has driven the 24-year-old throughout his career thus far, and he has become relentless in his pursuit to become the best player he can be in all aspects of his game.
On Friday, Whistle Sports released a video of Clarkson’s “Unseen Hours” working with Hanlen and the Pure Sweat team:
During his offseason training sessions with Hanlen, Clarkson has been putting in the work to improve on both sides of the floor. Clarkson was challenged by new head coach Luke Walton to improve defensively, and in fitting Clarkson fashion, the Missouri product has accepted the challenge while already showing vast improvement during the preseason and the regular-season opener.
Along with the challenge to improve defensively, Clarkson has also put in the time to work on his three-point shooting. Pure Sweat released footage recently of Clarkson draining three after three after three from almost near halfcourt.
With Clarkson’s work ethic and relentless drive to succeed, the third-year guard has a bright future with the Lakers. The sky is the limit for a player that never feels like the work is done and always strives to improve.