The New York Knicks have bolstered their roster with the signings of veteran forward Marcus Morris and adept shooter Landry Shamet, both on Exhibit 9 contracts. The addition of these players comes as the Knicks aim to enhance their depth and solidify their outside shooting capabilities for the upcoming season.
Experience and Versatility
Marcus Morris, entering his age-35 season, brings a wealth of experience with 13 years in the NBA, spreading across eight different teams. Knicks fans will remember Morris's previous stint with the team during the 2019-20 season, which was cut short when he was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers at the 2020 trade deadline. Most recently, Morris concluded the past season with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Morris’s career three-point shooting percentage stands at an impressive 37.7%, and he demonstrated his continued prowess from long range by shooting just over 40% last season. His return to the Knicks is likely to be seen as a homecoming that bolsters the team’s veteran presence and brings critical shooting ability back to New York.
Sharpshooting Addition
Landry Shamet also joins the Knicks on an Exhibit 9 contract, adding significant depth to their perimeter shooting. Shamet’s precision shooting will be a key asset for the Knicks as they look to improve their spacing and offensive efficiency. His addition aligns with the team's strategy to address one of their fundamental needs – solidifying their outside shooting.
Competing for Spots
Alongside Morris and Shamet, Chuma Okeke, a former first-round pick by the Orlando Magic, has joined the Knicks on a non-guaranteed deal. The inclusion of Okeke, known for his youthful potential, adds an intriguing dynamic to the Knicks' training camp. The competition for roster spots is set to be fierce, with Morris, Shamet, and Okeke each bringing unique attributes to the table.
Marcus Morris's versatility, which has seen him effectively play multiple positions throughout his career, Shamet’s reliable shooting, and Okeke’s potential development make for a fascinating mix during the training camp evaluations.
Final Roster Decisions
The Knicks’ decision-makers have a challenging task ahead, discerning the best fit for the final roster slots. Reflecting the team's approach, a sentiment from within the organization encapsulates their thinking: "We want a known quantity as our 15th man." This indicates a preference for players with proven track records, particularly as the Knicks aim to make a significant impact in the upcoming NBA season.
The decisions made during this period will be crucial as the Knicks prepare to navigate the competitive landscape of the NBA. The blend of experience, shooting ability, and potential growth encapsulated in these signings highlights the team's strategy to create a balanced and resilient roster. With Marcus Morris, Landry Shamet, and Chuma Okeke vying for their spots, the Knicks are set to evaluate their roster with a keen eye on both immediate contribution and future development.