The New York Knicks have made some strategic moves in preparation for the upcoming NBA season by adding two seasoned players to their roster: veteran forward Marcus Morris and shooting guard Landry Shamet. Both players have been signed to Exhibit 9 contracts, highlighting the Knicks’ focus on bolstering their depth and fortifying their shooting capabilities.
Marcus Morris Returns to Familiar Territory
Marcus Morris, who brings 13 years of NBA experience to the court, will be rejoining the Knicks—a team he briefly played for during the 2019-20 season before being traded to the Los Angeles Clippers at the 2020 trade deadline. The 35-year-old forward completed the previous season with the Cleveland Cavaliers and has been a journeyman of sorts, having represented eight different NBA teams throughout his career.
Morris’ versatility is a key asset for the Knicks. Known for his solid defensive capabilities and reliable shooting, Morris boasts a career three-point shooting percentage of 37.7%. Impressively, he shot just above 40% from long range last season, demonstrating his ability to be a consistent threat from beyond the arc. His return to New York not only adds a seasoned presence but also a familiarity with the team’s culture and system.
Landry Shamet Aims to Elevate Knicks' Perimeter Game
Joining Morris is Landry Shamet, a sharpshooter known for his precision from the perimeter. Shamet’s addition underscores the Knicks’ commitment to strengthening their outside shooting. As the team looks to compete in the increasingly competitive Eastern Conference, having reliable three-point marksmen like Shamet will be crucial.
The integration of Shamet into the Knicks’ system is expected to provide a significant boost to their overall scoring capability. His role will be essential in stretching opposing defenses and creating more space for the Knicks’ playmakers to operate. The expectation is that Shamet’s shooting prowess will quickly translate into meaningful contributions on the floor.
A Roster Spot Battle in the Big Apple
In addition to Morris and Shamet, Chuma Okeke, a former first-round pick by the Orlando Magic, is also on a non-guaranteed deal with the Knicks. This sets up an intriguing competition during the Knicks’ training camp, as all three players vie for roster spots.
The Knicks’ sentiment about final roster slot decisions was succinctly captured in the statement, “We want a known quantity as our 15th man.” This emphasizes the team's strategy of relying on dependable and proven players to round out their roster. Morris's versatility, Shamet’s shooting accuracy, and Okeke’s youthful potential are under close scrutiny as the Knicks’ coaching staff evaluates their fit and contributions to the team.
The Path Forward
As the Knicks continue their preparations for the new season, the integration of Morris and Shamet will be crucial to the team’s success. Morris’s experience and defensive acumen, paired with his ability to knock down three-pointers at a high clip, make him an invaluable addition. Shamet’s role as a sniper will be pivotal in elevating the Knicks’ offensive game plan and providing the team with a much-needed boost in three-point shooting.
Meanwhile, Okeke’s presence adds an element of potential and future growth, giving the Knicks an option to develop young talent while still maintaining a competitive edge. The synergy between these new signings and the existing roster will ultimately determine how well the Knicks can compete in the highly competitive NBA landscape.
The upcoming training camp will be a defining period for the players and the organization as a whole. The Knicks are clearly focused on creating a well-rounded and formidable roster, capable of making a significant impact in the league. By securing known quantities like Morris and Shamet, and by testing the waters with promising talents like Okeke, the Knicks are positioning themselves thoughtfully for the challenges ahead.