The New York Knicks have made a noteworthy addition to their roster, signing veteran shooting guard Landry Shamet to a one-year deal. This move marks yet another chapter in Shamet’s well-traveled NBA career, as he joins his sixth team in what will be his eighth season.
A Career on the Move
Shamet’s journey in the NBA began when he was drafted in the first round by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2018. Demonstrating his shooting prowess early on, Shamet was quickly recognized for his ability to stretch the floor. Midway through his rookie season, however, he was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers, underscoring the league's perpetually shifting landscape.
With a career three-point shooting percentage of 38.4%, Shamet has established himself as a reliable threat from beyond the arc. Yet, consistency has fluctuated in recent years. Last season, during his tenure with the Washington Wizards, Shamet posted a 33.8% success rate from three-point range over 46 games—a dip that he will strive to improve upon with the Knicks.
Enhancing Perimeter Offense
Shamet's arrival is part of the Knicks' broader strategy to bolster their perimeter offense. Last season, the team ranked 13th in the league in three-point attempts per game with 35.8, and 14th in three-point percentage at 36.9%. These middling stats reflect a need for improvement if they aim to compete at the higher echelons of the NBA.
The Knicks' long-range efforts have been spearheaded by Donte DiVincenzo and Jalen Brunson, who together accounted for 42% of the team's three-point attempts last season. Although Julius Randle also contributed, averaging over five three-point shots per game, his 31.1% success rate leaves room for growth. Shamet's presence can potentially balance this aspect of the Knicks' offense, given his history of shooting efficiency.
Strategic Summer Acquisitions
Shamet's signing is one of several strategic moves the Knicks have made during the off-season to enhance their roster. Earlier this summer, the team acquired forward Mikal Bridges, a player known for his solid defensive skills and reliable shooting. Bridges boasts a career three-point shooting percentage of 37.5%, adding another layer of depth to New York's attack.
Additionally, the Knicks have added backup point guard Cameron Payne, another proficient three-point shooter with a career mark of 36.9%. Payne’s presence will not only provide stability off the bench but also alleviate some of the ball-handling pressures on Brunson, potentially leading to better shot selection and distribution.
Looking to the Future
The influx of these new players positions the Knicks to potentially make significant strides in the upcoming season. By focusing on enhancing their three-point shooting and overall offensive versatility, they are set to challenge their rivals more effectively. The integration of Shamet, along with the acquisitions of Bridges and Payne, could provide the kind of spark the team needs to advance deeper into the playoffs.
As the Knicks prepare for the upcoming season, the spotlight will be on how well these new pieces fit within the existing framework. The team's performance will largely depend on whether Shamet can regain his shooting form and how effectively they can blend the strengths of their new acquisitions with their established core.
In conclusion, this off-season's moves signify the Knicks' commitment to addressing their weaknesses and bolstering their strengths. With Shamet's three-point shooting prowess, alongside the talents of Bridges and Payne, the Knicks have crafted a roster that promises to be both dynamic and competitive.