The New York Knicks have bolstered their veteran presence by signing forward Marcus Morris and sharpshooter Landry Shamet, both on Exhibit 9 contracts. These moves are part of a strategic effort to enhance the team's depth and shooting capabilities as they prepare for the upcoming NBA season.
A Closer Look at Marcus Morris
Marcus Morris brings a wealth of experience to the Knicks, with 13 years in the NBA and stints with eight different teams. Remarkably, Morris is no stranger to the Knicks, having played for them during the 2019-20 season before being traded to the Los Angeles Clippers at the 2020 trade deadline. Most recently, Morris wrapped up the previous season with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Entering his age-35 season, Morris is valued for his versatility and ability to contribute on both ends of the court. His career three-point shooting percentage stands at an impressive 37.7%, and he demonstrated his sharpshooting skills by hitting just above 40% from beyond the arc last season. This proficiency from long distance will be crucial for a Knicks team looking to solidify their outside shooting.
Landry Shamet: Adding Precision to the Perimeter
Joining Morris on an Exhibit 9 contract is Landry Shamet, a player known for his precision shooting. The Knicks' decision to sign Shamet underscores their priority to improve their perimeter game. Shamet's ability to stretch the floor could provide the Knicks with the offensive boost they need to compete in the highly competitive Eastern Conference.
Chuma Okeke: A Young Talent Under Evaluation
In addition to Morris and Shamet, Chuma Okeke, a former first-round pick by the Orlando Magic, has also joined the Knicks on a non-guaranteed deal. Okeke's youthful potential, combined with his skill set, makes him an intriguing option for the Knicks as they evaluate their roster during training camp.
With all three players—Morris, Shamet, and Okeke—competing for roster spots, the Knicks' management is keen on making precise decisions. The sentiment within the organization reflects a desire for stability and reliability. "We want a known quantity as our 15th man," encapsulates the Knicks' approach to finalizing their roster.
Training Camp: The Battle for Roster Spots
The Knicks' training camp promises to be competitive, as Marcus Morris's versatility, Landry Shamet's three-point precision, and Chuma Okeke's potential are weighed and assessed. Each player brings unique attributes to the table, giving the coaching staff several options to consider as they build a cohesive unit.
Marcus Morris's wealth of experience and consistent perimeter shooting provide a steadying presence that could mentor younger players and offer reliability in high-pressure situations. On the other hand, Landry Shamet's ability to knock down shots from deep can help space the floor, creating more room for the Knicks' primary ball handlers and playmakers to operate.
Meanwhile, Chuma Okeke's inclusion in the mix embodies the Knicks' interest in nurturing young talent. At just 24 years old, Okeke has demonstrated flashes of potential in his short NBA career. If he can showcase his skills during training camp, he may carve out a spot in the rotation, blending with the veteran presence of Morris and Shamet.
Looking Ahead: Knicks' Roster Dynamics
As the Knicks' training camp progresses, the performances of Morris, Shamet, and Okeke will be closely monitored. The outcome will play a crucial role in determining the final roster composition, specifically the coveted 15th spot. The Knicks' coaching staff, along with the front office, aim to strike a balance between experienced leadership and youthful potential as they prepare for what they hope will be a successful season.
The additions of Morris and Shamet signify a clear strategy by the Knicks to address their shooting needs and bring a mix of experience and skill to the roster. For Marcus Morris, a return to New York offers an opportunity to rekindle his form from the 2019-20 season. For Landry Shamet, it’s a chance to solidify his reputation as a reliable long-range threat. And for Chuma Okeke, it’s an opportunity to prove himself and secure a spot in the NBA.
With these calculated moves, the Knicks are positioning themselves to make significant strides in the Eastern Conference standings. The upcoming training camp will reveal which players stand out and earn their place on the team, shaping the Knicks' journey in the season ahead.