The New York Knicks have made noteworthy moves in the offseason, cementing their ambition to bolster their bench by signing veteran forward Marcus Morris and sharpshooter Landry Shamet. Both players have come on board with Exhibit 9 contracts, offering the Knicks some intriguing options and potential depth for the upcoming season.
Reacquainting with Marcus Morris
Marcus Morris, a seasoned NBA veteran with 13 years of experience, is no stranger to the Knicks' organization. Morris previously donned the Knicks’ jersey during the 2019-20 season before being traded to the Los Angeles Clippers at the 2020 trade deadline. Last season, he wrapped up his campaign with the Cleveland Cavaliers, demonstrating his enduring presence on the court.
At 35 years old, Morris brings a wealth of experience, having played for eight different NBA teams throughout his career. Known for his versatility, Morris remains a potent threat from beyond the arc, boasting a career three-point shooting percentage of 37.7%. Notably, he shot just above 40% from long range last season, indicating that he still has plenty to offer in terms of offensive firepower.
Adding Precision with Landry Shamet
Landry Shamet, another key acquisition, joins the Knicks with a reputation for precision shooting. His inclusion in the roster is part of the team's broader strategy to enhance their outside shooting capabilities. Like Morris, Shamet has signed an Exhibit 9 contract, positioning him as a serious contender for a spot on the team.
A Competitive Training Camp
The arrival of Morris and Shamet sets the stage for a highly competitive training camp. Alongside them, Chuma Okeke, a former first-round pick by the Orlando Magic, is also vying for a roster spot on a non-guaranteed deal. Okeke's youthful potential adds an interesting dynamic as the Knicks evaluate their options.
The Knicks’ aim is clear: to solidify their roster with reliable and effective players. The team's sentiment regarding their final roster slot decisions underscores this approach: "We want a known quantity as our 15th man." This statement reflects their desire for consistency and proven performance as they make their final selections.
Assessing the New Additions
Morris, Shamet, and Okeke each bring unique attributes to the table:
- Marcus Morris: His vast experience and proven scoring ability, especially from three-point range, make him a strong candidate. His versatility allows him to play multiple positions and adapt to various in-game scenarios, which is invaluable for any NBA team.
- Landry Shamet: With his sharp shooting skills, Shamet can be a key asset in stretching the floor and creating spacing for the Knicks’ offense. His ability to hit shots consistently from beyond the arc addresses one of the team's critical needs.
- Chuma Okeke: While less experienced, Okeke brings youthful energy and potential. His development during the training camp could offer the Knicks a fresh and promising talent for the future.
As the Knicks gear up for the start of the season, these additions are seen as strategic moves to enhance their competitiveness. The blend of experience, shooting precision, and potential among Morris, Shamet, and Okeke presents the Knicks’ coaching staff with an array of choices.
In the fast-paced, ever-changing landscape of the NBA, having reliable veterans like Morris and promising shooters like Shamet can make a significant difference. Adding the potential upside of a young player like Okeke only further broadens the team’s tactical flexibility.
The Knicks are clearly focused on making calculated and impactful decisions as they finalize their roster. Fans will be eager to see how these new signings perform and contribute to the team's success in the upcoming season.