The New York Knicks have made strategic moves this off-season, adding veteran forward Marcus Morris and sharpshooter Landry Shamet to their roster. Both players signed on Exhibit 9 contracts, bringing experience and proven talent to a team eager to enhance its performance.
Morris Brings Experience and Versatility
Marcus Morris joins the Knicks with an impressive 13-year NBA career, having appeared in the uniform of eight different teams over that span. At 35 years old, Morris primarily brings veteran presence and versatility to the squad. Notably, this isn't Morris's first stint with the Knicks; he played for the team during the 2019-20 season before being traded to the Los Angeles Clippers at the 2020 trade deadline. Last season, Morris concluded his campaign with the Cleveland Cavaliers, showcasing his enduring capability at the highest level.
Morris has consistently shown his prowess beyond the arc, boasting a career three-point shooting percentage of 37.7%. Last season, he further underscored his shooting acumen by hitting just above 40% from long range. Such shooting precision is likely a significant factor in the Knicks' decision to bring him back, as they aim to solidify their outside shooting options.
Landry Shamet: The Sharpshooter
Joining Morris is Landry Shamet, who also arrives on an Exhibit 9 contract. Known for his sniper-like accuracy from beyond the three-point line, Shamet brings a valuable skill that the Knicks are keen to exploit. As the team seeks to bolster its outside shooting, Shamet’s addition appears to be a calculated move to address this specific need.
Chuma Okeke Competing for a Spot
Also competing for a roster spot is Chuma Okeke, a former first-round pick by the Orlando Magic. Okeke is with the Knicks on a non-guaranteed deal, highlighting the team’s interest in evaluating his potential. As a player with youthful promise, Okeke’s performance in training camp will be closely monitored. The Knicks are assessing Morris’s versatility, Shamet’s precision shooting, and Okeke’s untapped potential as they finalize their roster.
Training Camp Battles
Training camp is shaping up to be a critical period for Morris, Shamet, and Okeke, as they vie for precious roster spots. The competition is expected to be fierce, with each player bringing unique strengths to the table. The Knicks have emphasized the importance of having a "known quantity" for their 15th man, indicating a preference for reliable performance over untested potential.
Morris’s extensive experience and impressive shooting stats last season bolster his case, while Shamet’s three-point shooting provides a much-needed edge. Okeke, on the other hand, offers youthful energy and potential growth, making the team’s final decision a challenging one.
The added depth and experience from these signings could prove crucial as the Knicks aim to elevate their play and compete more fiercely in the upcoming season. With a blend of veteran savvy and youthful promise, the team appears well-positioned to address its previous shortcomings and make a significant stride forward.