The New York Knicks have made notable moves this off-season by adding veteran talent alongside promising newcomers. The organization recently announced the signing of veteran forward Marcus Morris and sharp-shooter Landry Shamet, bringing both players on Exhibit 9 contracts, a key detail as the team continues to shuffle its roster in preparation for the upcoming season.
A Familiar Face Returns
Marcus Morris is no stranger to the Knicks' faithful, having previously donned the blue and orange during the 2019-20 NBA season. His tenure with the team was cut short when he was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers at the 2020 trade deadline. The move was a strategic one, aimed at bolstering the Clippers' playoff aspirations.
This time around, Morris arrives with a wealth of experience under his belt, entering his age-35 season with an impressive 13 years in the NBA. Over his career, Morris has represented eight different teams, showcasing his versatility and adaptability on the court. Last season, he concluded his duties with the Cleveland Cavaliers, solidifying his role as a reliable veteran presence.
Shooting Prowess and Veteran Leadership
Morris brings more than just experience; he’s also known for his shooting prowess. He boasts a career three-point shooting percentage of 37.7% and impressively shot just above 40% from long range last season. This shooting accuracy is a crucial asset for a Knicks team looking to enhance their outside shooting capabilities.
Joining Morris in this quest to improve the team's perimeter offense is Landry Shamet. Signed on a similar Exhibit 9 contract, Shamet is known for his precision shooting. His addition indicates the Knicks’ clear focus on reinforcing their shooting artillery, a move that could pay dividends as the season progresses.
Youth Meets Experience
The Knicks are not just investing in seasoned players. Chuma Okeke, a former first-round pick by the Orlando Magic, also joins the squad on a non-guaranteed deal. This blend of veteran experience and youthful potential creates an intriguing dynamic as the team heads into training camp. All three players—Morris, Shamet, and Okeke—will be competing for coveted roster spots.
Key Players in Training Camp
The Knicks' coaching staff will be closely evaluating each player's contribution during training camp. Morris’s versatility is expected to be a significant factor in his favor, offering both offensive and defensive flexibility. Shamet’s elite shooting could provide the Knicks with a much-needed boost in scoring from beyond the arc. Meanwhile, Okeke's youthful potential is something the Knicks are keen on assessing further.
As the Knicks deliberate on their final roster decisions, the competition is expected to be fierce. The organization has emphasized the importance of having a "known quantity" for their 15th man. This sentiment underlines the value placed on proven performance and reliability, particularly in the high-stakes environment of the NBA.
The upcoming weeks will be critical for Morris, Shamet, and Okeke as they vie for a place on the Knicks’ roster. With the team looking to make significant strides this season, the inclusion of these players could play a pivotal role in achieving their objectives.