The New York Knicks have made some significant moves in the offseason, signing veteran forward Marcus Morris and sharpshooter Landry Shamet to Exhibit 9 contracts. These signings are aimed at bolstering their roster as they prepare for the upcoming NBA season.
Veteran Presence
Marcus Morris' return to the Knicks is a notable storyline. With 13 years of NBA experience under his belt, Morris brings a wealth of knowledge and a seasoned presence to the team. This will be Morris' second stint with the Knicks, as he previously played for the team during the 2019-20 season before being traded to the Los Angeles Clippers at the trade deadline in 2020. Last season, Morris concluded his campaign with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Morris’ tenure in the league has seen him represent eight different NBA teams. Now at 35, Morris continues to be a valuable asset due to his versatility on the court. Over his career, he's maintained a respectable three-point shooting percentage of 37.7%, and he shot just over 40% from long distance last season. His ability to stretch the floor and provide solid defense makes him a valuable addition, potentially fitting well into various lineups as the Knicks seek to enhance their outside shooting.
Sharpshooting Addition
Joining Morris on an Exhibit 9 contract is Landry Shamet, known for his precision from beyond the arc. Shamet’s signing aligns with the Knicks’ desire to solidify their outside shooting. The 26-year-old guard has established himself as a consistent shooter, bringing an additional element of depth and accuracy to the backcourt. The Knicks have identified shooting as a critical area for improvement, and Shamet’s role will be pivotal in addressing this need.
Roster Competition
In addition to Morris and Shamet, the Knicks have also brought in Chuma Okeke, a versatile forward and former first-round pick by the Orlando Magic, on a non-guaranteed deal. Okeke, Morris, and Shamet are all competing for roster spots during the Knicks' training camp. Each player brings unique skills to the table – Morris’s versatility, Shamet’s shooting, and Okeke’s youthful potential.
The competition for these roster spots underscores the Knicks' strategic approach to building a balanced and competitive team. There's a clear emphasis on adding known quantities and reliable talents. According to sentiments within the Knicks organization, "We want a known quantity as our 15th man," signaling their preference for experienced and proven players to fill out the final roster slots.
As training camp progresses, the Knicks will continue to evaluate these players, considering how each one fits into their overall game plan and team dynamics. The ultimate goal is to create a roster that not only excels in regular season play but also has the depth and resilience to perform in the postseason.
This period will be crucial for Morris, Shamet, and Okeke as they aim to prove their worth and secure their places on the team. The Knicks’ coaching staff and management will be closely monitoring their performances, making decisions that will shape the upcoming season.
For the Knicks' loyal fans, the addition of Morris and Shamet brings a mixture of familiarity and fresh talent. Morris’s previous association with the team offers continuity, while Shamet’s shooting prowess promises a new dynamic to the offense. Whether these moves will translate to success on the court remains to be seen, but the Knicks are clearly taking steps to address their needs and strengthen their squad for the challenges ahead.