The New York Knicks have bolstered their roster by adding veteran forward Marcus Morris and sharpshooter Landry Shamet, both on Exhibit 9 contracts. This move strategically fortifies the Knicks' ambitions to strengthen their rotation with experienced and reliable talent.
A Veteran's Return
Marcus Morris, who previously donned the Knicks' jersey during the 2019-20 season, brings a wealth of experience to the team. With 13 years in the NBA and a history of playing for eight different teams, Morris is no stranger to adapting and contributing wherever needed. At 35 years old, the seasoned forward still exhibits the sharp shooting touch, boasting a career three-point shooting percentage of 37.7%. In fact, Morris's proficiency from beyond the arc saw him shoot just above 40% in the last season with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Morris's journey has seen significant transitions, including a mid-season trade from the Knicks to the Los Angeles Clippers in 2020. His return to New York signals a reunion characterized by mutual familiarity and an urgent aim to tap into his veteran leadership and on-court versatility.
Sharpshooting Reinforcements
The Knicks aren't solely relying on Morris's return to sharpen their firepower. They have also secured Landry Shamet, another savvy acquisition, on an Exhibit 9 contract. Known for his accuracy and efficiency, Shamet's addition underscores the Knicks' strategy to solidify their outside shooting. His career has been defined by making a significant impact with his precise shooting, a quality the Knicks sorely need as they aim to elevate their offensive dynamics.
Completing the trio of recent signees is Chuma Okeke, a former first-round pick by the Orlando Magic. Okeke joins on a non-guaranteed deal, adding a layer of youthful promise and untapped potential to the Knicks' lineup.
Competing for Roster Spots
As training camp proceeds, Morris, Shamet, and Okeke are competing rigorously for coveted roster spots. Each brings unique attributes to the table: Morris's versatility, Shamet's precision from long range, and Okeke's blend of youth and potential. The Knicks' decision-makers are closely evaluating their contributions, hoping to finalize a roster that can provide both stability and growth.
The sentiment within the Knicks' camp emphasizes the need for reliability and proven performance. A source within the team highlighted this focus, stating, "We want a known quantity as our 15th man." This approach hints at a preference for seasoned veterans who have demonstrated consistency over promising, yet unproven, talent.
The coming weeks will be crucial as the Knicks aim to refine their roster, balancing seasoned expertise with potential-driven youth. The inclusion of Marcus Morris and Landry Shamet is poised to bring a competitive edge and much-needed shooting prowess to the squad. Meanwhile, Chuma Okeke's presence adds a layer of unpredictability and future promise. These strategic moves represent the Knicks' commitment to fortifying their lineup and making a significant impact in the upcoming NBA season.