New York Knicks Add Depth with Landry Shamet Signing
In a strategic move to bolster their backcourt, the New York Knicks have signed veteran shooting guard Landry Shamet to a one-year contract. This acquisition marks Shamet's sixth team in his eight-year career, a testament to his adaptability and the demand for his shooting prowess around the league.
Shamet's Shooting Pedigree
Drafted as a first-round pick by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2018, Shamet quickly made a name for himself with his sharpshooting abilities. Despite being traded to the Los Angeles Clippers midway through his rookie season, Shamet continued to showcase his skills from beyond the arc. He boasts a career 38.4% success rate on three-point attempts, making him a valuable asset for any team looking to enhance their perimeter game.
Last season, Shamet played 46 games with the Washington Wizards, posting a three-point percentage of 33.8%. While this number is slightly below his career average, the Knicks are betting on his ability to revert to form and provide consistent scoring from distance.
Three-Point Strategy
The Knicks' focus on enhancing their perimeter action is evident in their recent roster moves. Last season, the team ranked 13th in the league in three-point attempts per game, averaging 35.8 shots from downtown. They were 14th in three-point percentage, converting 36.9% of those attempts. This balanced approach has been a significant component of their offensive strategy.
Key contributors to the Knicks' long-range efforts include Donte DiVincenzo and Jalen Brunson, who together accounted for 42% of the team's three-point attempts last season. Additionally, Julius Randle, despite making only 31.1% of his three-point attempts, averaged more than five attempts per game, indicative of the Knicks' willingness to trust their players to take and make these high-value shots.
New Faces, Familiar Goals
In addition to Shamet, the Knicks have made other significant acquisitions to strengthen their roster. Earlier this summer, the team acquired Mikal Bridges, who brings a career three-point shooting percentage of 37.5% to the mix. Bridges is expected to play a crucial role in the Knicks' quest to improve their outside shooting consistency.
The Knicks also signed backup point guard Cameron Payne, known for his reliable three-point shooting with a career mark of 36.9%. Payne's presence will undoubtedly provide the team with additional depth and options in their backcourt rotations.
Looking Forward
With the addition of Shamet, Bridges, and Payne, the Knicks have clearly prioritized bolstering their three-point arsenal in the off-season. These moves suggest a clear strategy aimed at improving their offensive versatility and overall scoring efficiency. As the Knicks aim to climb the ranks in the highly competitive Eastern Conference, these additions could prove to be pivotal.
As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on how these new pieces fit into the Knicks' existing framework and whether they can elevate the team's performance on the hardwood. The combination of experienced newcomers and established talents promises an exciting and potentially transformative season for the storied franchise.