The New York Knicks have added some experienced depth to their roster by signing veteran shooting guard Landry Shamet on a one-year deal. This move reflects the Knicks' ongoing strategy to enhance their perimeter shooting and overall team versatility as they build on a promising foundation.
Shamet, a first-round pick in the 2018 NBA Draft by the Philadelphia 76ers, has traversed a journeyman path in the league. After being traded to the Los Angeles Clippers midway through his rookie season, Shamet has now found himself on six different teams over eight seasons. Despite the frequent relocations, Shamet has maintained a reputation for his three-point shooting ability, posting a career 38.4% success rate from beyond the arc. However, his efficiency dipped last season with the Washington Wizards, where he shot 33.8% from three over 46 games.
Enhancing Perimeter Firepower
The Knicks' need for reliable three-point shooters is underscored by their performance stats from last season. The team ranked 13th in the league with an average of 35.8 three-point attempts per game and placed 14th in three-point percentage at 36.9%. Although not poor, these figures illustrate room for improvement, especially in a league that increasingly values the three-ball. Shamet's career track record suggests he can contribute to elevating these numbers, despite a recent downturn in his shooting percentage.
Additionally, the Knicks have also bolstered their lineup by acquiring Mikal Bridges earlier this summer. Bridges complements Shamet’s arrival well, bringing in a steady hand and a career three-point shooting percentage of 37.5%. The addition of these two players aims to diversify the team’s scoring options and reduce the heavy reliance on key players for perimeter shooting.
Balancing the Roster
Donte DiVincenzo and Jalen Brunson accounted for a significant portion of the Knicks' long-range attempts last season, contributing to 42% of the team's three-point shots. Acquiring shooters like Shamet and Bridges can potentially distribute the offensive load more evenly, reducing the pressure on DiVincenzo and Brunson. Furthermore, Julius Randle, who made 31.1% of his three-point attempts while averaging over five shots per game, could benefit from the added floor spacing these new additions can provide.
In another move to reinforce their backcourt, the Knicks signed backup point guard Cameron Payne. Payne brings his own credible shooting threat, boasting a career three-point mark of 36.9%. His experience and ability to score from beyond the arc will be invaluable in providing a spark off the bench and maintaining offensive momentum when starters rest.
Strategic Depth and Experience
The combination of these acquisitions aligns with the Knicks' broader strategy of building a competitive roster with a blend of youth and veteran presence. Shamet, despite being a veteran, is still young enough at 26 to grow with a relatively young Knicks core, while his experience in various systems across the league provides a wealth of basketball IQ. Bridges and Payne, each with their solid three-point shooting records, add necessary depth and versatility.
Rounding out these new additions, the Knicks' coaching staff will have to carefully integrate these players to maximize their impact. With the league becoming increasingly competitive, every incremental improvement matters. Shamet’s signing, while perhaps not headline-grabbing, signals the Knicks' commitment to constructing a well-rounded, potent roster capable of competing at higher levels.
In essence, the New York Knicks have methodically fortified their squad with seasoned players who can spread the floor and contribute significantly from the three-point line. Whether these strategic moves translate to more wins and a deeper playoff run remains to be seen, but the groundwork has undoubtedly been set for a compelling season ahead.