In a strategic move to enhance their roster depth for the upcoming NBA season, the New York Knicks have signed veteran forward Marcus Morris and guard Landry Shamet to Exhibit 9 contracts. These contracts essentially serve as invitations to the team's training camp, providing both players the chance to secure a spot on the final roster.
Marcus Morris: Veteran Presence
Marcus Morris brings significant experience to the Knicks' training camp. At 35 years old, Morris is a seasoned forward with 13 years of NBA experience. He most recently played for the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he had a brief but impactful stint last season. Initially signed to a 10-day contract in March, Morris made a quick impression by showcasing his skills and earning a spot for the remainder of the season.
During his time with the Cavaliers, Morris averaged 5.8 points per game and boasted an impressive 41.4% shooting from beyond the arc over 12 regular-season games. His performance was pivotal in helping the Cavaliers advance in the playoffs for the first time since 2018. Known for his floor spacing ability, Morris provided crucial veteran leadership as a big forward, a quality the Knicks eagerly seek to capitalize on as they aim to bolster their depth.
Adding Morris to the roster could offer valuable support behind key players like OG Anunoby, Julius Randle, and Josh Hart. His ability to stretch the floor and contribute from the three-point line adds a dimension the Knicks are looking to enhance in their offensive schemes. The Exhibit 9 contract allows the team to evaluate Morris's fitness and fit within team dynamics without a significant financial commitment, making it a low-risk, potentially high-reward move.
Landry Shamet: Sharpshooting Guard
Joining Morris in the Knicks' training camp is 27-year-old guard Landry Shamet. Known for his sharpshooting, Shamet averaged 7.1 points per game for the Washington Wizards last season, and holds a career 3-point shooting percentage of 38.4%. His ability to space the floor could make him a valuable asset for the Knicks, who are actively seeking to add depth and versatility to their lineup.
Shamet's presence offers reliability from beyond the arc, and his proven track record as a consistent shooter aligns well with the Knicks' game plan to enhance their offensive strategies. The flexibility of the Exhibit 9 contract means the Knicks can thoroughly assess Shamet’s contributions during training camp without a hefty financial stake, allowing the team to make thoughtful roster decisions based on performance and fit.
Strategic Signings for Depth and Versatility
The signings of Morris and Shamet are part of a broader strategy by the Knicks to enhance their depth and versatility. In an Eastern Conference that has become increasingly competitive, every roster spot needs to be filled thoughtfully. The presence of seasoned players like Morris and promising shooters like Shamet can provide the Knicks with the necessary tools to compete at a higher level.
Both players have shown they can contribute at a high level. Morris's veteran experience and ability to stretch the floor, combined with Shamet's sharpshooting, offer the Knicks valuable skill sets that align with their tactical goals. These training camp deals not only allow the players to prove their worth but also give the Knicks a chance to fine-tune their roster without major financial risks.
The New York Knicks, one of the most storied franchises in the NBA, are clearly aiming to build a robust squad capable of performing consistently through the season. The addition of Marcus Morris and Landry Shamet to the training camp is a calculated effort to identify and retain talent that will fortify their roster depth, thereby better positioning themselves to navigate the challenges of an increasingly competitive Eastern Conference.
As the training camp progresses, it will be interesting to see how Morris and Shamet integrate with the team and demonstrate their skills. Both players have the opportunity to make the final roster and contribute to the Knicks' quest for success in the upcoming season. The Knicks' strategic approach to these signings underscores their commitment to building a cohesive and competitive team, ensuring they are well-prepared for the demands of the NBA season ahead.