The New York Knicks have made strategic moves this offseason by bringing in experienced forward Marcus Morris and sharpshooter Landry Shamet. Both veterans come on Exhibit 9 contracts as they aim to bolster the team’s roster ahead of the new NBA season.
Morris's Impressive Resume
Marcus Morris is no stranger to the Knicks' organization or the NBA at large. With 13 seasons under his belt, Morris has donned the jerseys of eight different NBA teams. Notably, he had a stint with the Knicks during the 2019-20 season before being traded to the Los Angeles Clippers midseason. He wrapped up the last season playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers.
At 35 years old, Morris brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of consistent performance, including a career three-point shooting percentage of 37.7%. Last season, he exceeded his career average, shooting just above 40% from beyond the arc, demonstrating he can still contribute significantly to any team’s offense.
Shamet Adds Long-Range Prowess
Joining Morris on the Exhibit 9 contract is Landry Shamet, a sniper with a reputation for precision from long range. The Knicks' decision to bring in Shamet signals a clear intention to enhance their outside shooting capabilities, a crucial aspect of the modern game dominated by three-point efficiency. Shamet's ability to stretch the floor will be pivotal as the Knicks aim to improve their offensive output.
Competition in Training Camp
The path to securing a permanent spot on the Knicks' roster won’t be straightforward for Morris and Shamet. They will compete against each other and another hopeful, Chuma Okeke, a former first-round pick by the Orlando Magic who is also on a non-guaranteed deal. Okeke brings youthful potential to the mix, offering the Knicks a versatile frontcourt option with room to grow.
The training camp will be a critical period for all three players. The Knicks are focused on solidifying their lineup, with the sentiment within the organization clearly articulated: "We want a known quantity as our 15th man." This indicates that performance during the camp will be heavily scrutinized, and the coaching staff will prioritize reliability and consistency when making final roster decisions.
The Knicks' Strategic Decisions
The competition among Morris, Shamet, and Okeke highlights the Knicks' multifaceted approach. Morris’s versatility and experience, Shamet’s dynamism, and Okeke’s potential provide the team’s coaching staff with diverse options to evaluate. The overarching goal is to assemble a roster capable of making a significant impact in the upcoming season.
New York's management and coaching staff are meticulously assessing each player's fit within the team's system. If Morris can bring his veteran savvy and maintain his three-point accuracy, he could be an invaluable asset. Meanwhile, Shamet’s shooting could serve as an immediate boost to the Knicks' offensive schemes. For Okeke, it’s about showcasing his physical tools and potential to grow into a significant role.
As the training camp progresses, these evaluations will lead to decisions that shape the Knicks' lineup. The interplay between established skill sets and developing talent will be crucial in determining which players secure their spots and how the team will perform in the highly competitive NBA landscape.