In a move aimed at bolstering their backcourt depth, the New York Knicks have signed veteran shooting guard Landry Shamet to a one-year contract. Shamet joins what is becoming a crowded yet intriguing roster, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a much-needed three-point shooting acumen.
Addition of Shamet
Drafted as a first-round pick by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2018, Shamet has had a journeyman career, moving from Philadelphia to the Los Angeles Clippers midway through his rookie season. Now, with his sixth team in eight seasons, Shamet is looking to make an immediate impact with the Knicks. His career three-point shooting percentage of 38.4% suggests he has the potential to do just that.
Last season, Shamet struggled with consistency, posting a 33.8% success rate from beyond the arc over 46 games with the Washington Wizards. Despite this dip, the Knicks are banking on Shamet to regain his form and provide a reliable shooting option off the bench.
Knicks' Three-Point Strategy
The Knicks have shown a commitment to the long ball, ranking 13th in the league in three-point attempts per game at 35.8 last season. They also placed 14th in three-point percentage, with a team average of 36.9%. With the addition of Shamet, the Knicks hope to improve these numbers and climb higher in the rankings.
Donte DiVincenzo and Jalen Brunson were the main contributors to the Knicks' three-point attempts last season, accounting for 42% of the team's shots from downtown. Julius Randle also made significant contributions, attempting more than five three-point shots per game, though he managed to connect on only 31.1% of them. The arrival of Shamet offers another weapon for head coach Tom Thibodeau, who is undoubtedly looking to spread the floor and create more scoring opportunities.
Recent Acquisitions
Shamet is not the only new face expected to contribute from beyond the arc. Earlier this summer, the Knicks acquired Mikal Bridges, known for his solid three-point shooting. Bridges, with a career three-point shooting percentage of 37.5%, is anticipated to bring another dimension to the Knicks' offensive scheme. The addition of Bridges is particularly significant, given his ability to also impact the game on the defensive end.
Additionally, the Knicks signed backup point guard Cameron Payne, who boasts a career three-point mark of 36.9%. Payne’s ability to stretch the floor will be a valuable asset, particularly in second-unit rotations. His presence ensures that the Knicks can maintain their three-point threat even when the starters are resting.
A New Chapter
Shamet's signing marks another step in the Knicks' ongoing effort to build a team capable of competing in the modern NBA, where three-point shooting is increasingly vital. With veterans like Shamet, Bridges, and Payne joining the mix, the Knicks are better positioned to challenge opponents on both ends of the floor.
The upcoming season will be a litmus test for the new-look Knicks. Fans and analysts alike will be keen to see how these new pieces fit into Thibodeau's system and whether the Knicks can make a deeper playoff run. For Shamet, this season represents an opportunity to prove he can still be a valuable contributor on a contending team.
As the Knicks gear up for the new season, the spotlight will undoubtedly be on how effectively they can integrate their new acquisitions and improve their three-point shooting consistency. The pieces are in place; now it's up to the team to execute and take the next step forward.