In an effort to fortify their roster ahead of the new season, the New York Knicks have signed veteran forward Marcus Morris and guard Landry Shamet to Exhibit 9 contracts. These deals essentially act as invitations to the team's training camp, where both players will have the chance to earn a spot on the final roster. Although the contracts are non-guaranteed, they include a provision that entitles each player to $15,000 should they sustain any injuries during camp.
Marcus Morris: A Seasoned Veteran
Marcus Morris, a 35-year-old forward, brings a wealth of experience to the Knicks. Morris is fresh off a short but impactful tenure with the Cleveland Cavaliers last season. Initially brought in on a 10-day contract in March, Morris quickly proved his worth and secured a spot for the remainder of the season. In his 12 regular-season games with the Cavaliers, Morris averaged 5.8 points per game while shooting an impressive 41.4% from beyond the arc.
Morris played an instrumental role in the Cavaliers' playoff run, offering crucial veteran leadership and floor spacing. His ability to stretch the floor and hit three-pointers made him a valuable asset. Standing tall in pivotal moments, he helped the Cavaliers advance in the playoffs for the first time since 2018. With 13 years of NBA experience, Morris's presence could provide valuable support behind key players like OG Anunoby, Julius Randle, and Josh Hart on the Knicks' roster.
Landry Shamet: Sharpshooting Guard
Joining Morris at the Knicks' training camp will be 27-year-old guard Landry Shamet. Last season, Shamet averaged 7.1 points per game playing for the Washington Wizards. Over the course of his career, he has established himself as a dependable three-point shooter, boasting a career 3-point shooting percentage of 38.4%. His sharpshooting ability could prove to be a significant asset for the Knicks, particularly in terms of floor spacing.
Shamet's knack for hitting crucial three-pointers could give the Knicks another dimension on the offensive end. His reliability from beyond the arc offers head coach Tom Thibodeau a versatile offensive and defensive weapon, integral for navigating the highly competitive Eastern Conference.
Strategic Depth and Roster Versatility
The flexibility offered by Exhibit 9 contracts allows the Knicks to evaluate the players' fitness and fit within the team dynamics without a significant financial commitment. These signings are clearly part of a broader strategy to enhance team depth and versatility. The Knicks, one of the most storied franchises in the NBA, understand that every roster spot needs to be filled thoughtfully. As the Eastern Conference becomes increasingly competitive, filling these spots with proven veterans like Morris and promising talents like Shamet becomes crucial.
Both Marcus Morris and Landry Shamet have demonstrated their ability to contribute at a high level, and their presence at training camp adds to the competitive atmosphere as the Knicks look to finalize their roster. Should they make the team, their complementary skills—Morris’s floor-spacing as a big and Shamet’s sharpshooting—could be instrumental in adding new dimensions to the Knicks' offensive and defensive schemes.
The Knicks' strategic signings reflect a deliberate approach to bolstering their ranks while keeping an eye on team chemistry and long-term success. As the training camp progresses, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Morris and Shamet can seize their opportunities and secure their spots on this ambitious Knicks roster.