In a bid to fortify their roster depth, the New York Knicks have made strategic moves by signing veteran forward Marcus Morris and guard Landry Shamet to Exhibit 9 contracts. These contracts, which serve primarily as invitations to the team's training camp, offer both players the chance to secure a spot on the final roster.
The Exhibit 9 deals signed by Morris and Shamet are non-guaranteed. However, they come with a notable provision: each player is entitled to $15,000 should they sustain injuries during the camp. This clause provides an added layer of financial security for the players while allowing the Knicks to evaluate their fit and fitness within the team dynamics without committing extensively upfront.
Marcus Morris: Veteran Leadership and Versatility
Marcus Morris, a 35-year-old forward, joins the Knicks after making a significant impact during his brief tenure with the Cleveland Cavaliers last season. Initially signed on a 10-day contract in March, Morris showcased his skills effectively, earning himself a spot for the remainder of the season. Over 12 regular-season games, Morris averaged 5.8 points per game, demonstrating his sharpshooting ability with an impressive 41.4% shooting from beyond the arc.
Beyond his statistics, Morris brought invaluable veteran leadership to the Cavaliers, helping them advance in the playoffs for the first time since 2018. His ability to stretch the floor and provide crucial spacing on the court underscored his importance, especially as a big forward capable of playing multiple positions. With 13 years of NBA experience, Morris's presence in the Knicks lineup could offer essential support behind key players like OG Anunoby, Julius Randle, and Josh Hart.
Landry Shamet: Sharpshooting Prowess
At 27 years old, guard Landry Shamet adds a different dimension to the Knicks' setup. Known for his sharpshooting, Shamet averaged 7.1 points per game for the Washington Wizards last season. His career 3-point shooting percentage of 38.4% highlights his reliability from beyond the arc, making him a valuable asset for any team looking to enhance their perimeter offense.
Shamet's ability to space the floor is particularly crucial for the Knicks, who are looking to add depth and versatility to their offense. By creating opportunities from the three-point line, Shamet could provide the needed scoring punch from the bench or even as a starting option in particular matchups. His role as a dependable shooter can help open up driving lanes for other players, promoting a more dynamic and unpredictable offensive scheme.
Strategic Depth and Eastern Conference Competition
The signings of Morris and Shamet align with the Knicks' broader strategy to enhance team depth and versatility. With the Eastern Conference becoming increasingly competitive, every roster spot must be filled thoughtfully and strategically. Both Marcus Morris and Landry Shamet have demonstrated their ability to contribute at a high level, bolstering the Knicks' hopes of improving their standing within the conference.
The flexibility offered by Exhibit 9 contracts allows the Knicks to make these evaluations without a significant financial commitment. This approach enables the team to remain agile and responsive, adapting their roster as needed based on the performance of players during the training camp. For Morris and Shamet, this is an opportunity to prove their worth and secure a more permanent position within one of the NBA's most storied franchises.
As the Knicks gear up for the upcoming season, the addition of seasoned players like Marcus Morris and Landry Shamet could be pivotal. Their individual skills, combined with their experienced backgrounds, bring a blend of stability and potential to a team eager to rise in the ranks of the highly competitive Eastern Conference.