The New York Knicks have recently bolstered their roster with the addition of seasoned forward Marcus Morris and sharpshooter Landry Shamet. Both players join the team on Exhibit 9 contracts, indicating the franchise's strategic moves heading into the upcoming NBA season.
Marcus Morris Makes His Return
Well-versed in the demands of the NBA, Marcus Morris brings a depth of experience to the Knicks' lineup. With 13 seasons under his belt, Morris has represented eight different teams throughout his career. His return to the Knicks is particularly noteworthy, as he previously donned the team's colors during the 2019-20 season before being traded to the Los Angeles Clippers at the 2020 trade deadline. Last season, Morris found himself contributing to the Cleveland Cavaliers' campaign.
At 35 years old, Morris remains a reliable presence on the court, particularly from beyond the arc. His career three-point shooting percentage stands at an impressive 37.7%, and he managed to surpass the 40% mark from long range last season. This precision from deep will undoubtedly be a valuable asset for a Knicks team looking to solidify its outside shooting.
Adding Firepower with Landry Shamet
Joining Morris is Landry Shamet, another player known for his ability to knock down shots from distance. Shamet's addition further underscores the Knicks' commitment to enhancing their shooting capabilities. Signed under an Exhibit 9 contract, Shamet will be vying for a spot on the final roster, hoping to demonstrate his precision shooting can provide the Knicks with a consistent outside threat.
In addition to Shamet, the Knicks have also brought in Chuma Okeke, a former first-round pick by the Orlando Magic, on a non-guaranteed deal. Each of these players - Morris, Shamet, and Okeke - will be participating in the Knicks' training camp, competing to earn a roster spot.
Evaluating the New Additions
The Knicks front office expressed a clear sentiment regarding their final roster slot decisions. "We want a known quantity as our 15th man," encapsulated their approach. Morris's versatility, Shamet's pinpoint shooting, and Okeke's youthful potential are attributes that the Knicks will be closely evaluating as they assemble a cohesive and competitive unit.
Morris's extensive experience and ability to influence both ends of the floor make him a strong candidate for inclusion. His familiarity with the Knicks' organization and proven track record as a steady contributor enhance his case. Meanwhile, Shamet’s ability to spread the floor with his shooting could prove to be a crucial element in the Knicks' offensive schemes.
Okeke's entry into the conversation adds another layer of intrigue. His status as a former first-round pick speaks to his potential, and the non-guaranteed nature of his deal suggests that he will need to impress during training camp to secure his place on the roster.
Looking at the Bigger Picture
The decisions made in the coming weeks will shape the Knicks' roster and set the tone for their season. Bringing veterans like Morris back into the fold, complemented by shooters like Shamet and promising talents like Okeke, indicates a strategic balancing act. The Knicks are aiming to blend experience with youth, all while ensuring they have reliable role players who can step up when called upon.
As the training camp progresses, fans, analysts, and the front office will be keenly observing how these players integrate with the rest of the squad. The battle for the final roster spots promises to be a competitive affair, with each player pushing to demonstrate their value and secure their place in the Knicks' pursuit of success this season.