The New York Knicks have bolstered their roster by signing veteran forward Marcus Morris and sharpshooter Landry Shamet. Both players have inked Exhibit 9 contracts, signaling that the Knicks are still in the evaluation phase for their final roster decisions.
Marcus Morris: A Familiar Face Returns
Veteran forward Marcus Morris is no stranger to the bright lights of Madison Square Garden. With 13 years of NBA experience, Morris has played for eight different teams during his career, including a stint with the Knicks during the 2019-20 season. His return is not just a nod to nostalgia but a strategic move to add depth and experience to a team looking for stability.
Morris's journey after his initial Knicks run led him to the Los Angeles Clippers, where he was traded at the 2020 trade deadline. Most recently, he wrapped up the past season with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Now in his age-35 season, Morris continues to rely on his shooting precision, boasting a career three-point shooting percentage of 37.7%. Last season, he was slightly better, shooting just above 40% from long range.
The Knicks' decision to bring back Morris underscores their desire for a "known quantity" as their 15th man, a sentiment the team has expressed regarding their final roster slot decisions. His versatility and veteran presence will undoubtedly be valuable assets during training camp.
Landry Shamet: Adding Firepower from Beyond the Arc
Joining Morris on an Exhibit 9 contract is Landry Shamet, a player known for his perimeter shooting prowess. Shamet's addition aims to solidify the Knicks' outside shooting, an area they are looking to enhance ahead of the new season. His role will be closely scrutinized as the Knicks assess their long-range options during training camp.
Youthful Potential: Chuma Okeke
Adding to the competition is Chuma Okeke, a former first-round pick by the Orlando Magic. Currently on a non-guaranteed deal with the Knicks, Okeke brings youthful potential to the table. His performance during training camp will be crucial as he looks to secure a more permanent spot on the roster.
Balancing Experience and Potential
With Morris’s versatility, Shamet’s precision shooting, and Okeke’s youthful potential, the Knicks' training camp promises to be a crucible of competition. Head coach Tom Thibodeau and his staff will be closely evaluating each player to ensure the right mix of experience and talent makes the final cut.
The upcoming weeks are critical for Morris, Shamet, and Okeke as they vie for their places on the Knicks' roster. Each player brings a unique set of skills that could be pivotal for the team's success in the upcoming season. Morris's veteran savvy, Shamet's shooting accuracy, and Okeke's potential are all under the microscope as the Knicks prepare for their final roster decisions.
The Knicks' front office has made it clear that they desire a "known quantity" for their final roster spot, underscoring the importance of reliability and proven performance. Morris’s familiarity with the organization and consistent shooting could give him an edge, while Shamet’s ability to stretch the floor with his shooting provides a compelling argument for his inclusion.
As training camp progresses, the Knicks must strike a balance between seasoned experience and untapped potential. The decisions made in the coming days will set the tone for what the Knicks hope will be a successful campaign. Fans will be eagerly watching to see which players rise to the occasion and earn their spot in the storied halls of Madison Square Garden.