The New York Knicks have made a strategic move in the offseason by signing veteran shooting guard Landry Shamet to a one-year deal. Shamet’s journey through the NBA has been a whirlwind since being drafted as a first-round pick by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2018. Despite the early promise, Shamet quickly became a well-traveled player, traded to the Los Angeles Clippers midway through his rookie season. This upcoming season with the Knicks marks Shamet’s sixth team in just eight seasons.
Shamet brings a formidable skill set to the Knicks, particularly from beyond the arc. Over his career, he has maintained a 38.4% success rate from three-point range, showcasing his consistency and sharpshooting capabilities. However, last season with the Washington Wizards wasn't his best, as his three-point percentage dipped to 33.8% over 46 games. The Knicks are likely banking on a revival of Shamet’s form to bolster their long-range efforts.
Three-Point Strategy
Last season, the Knicks ranked 13th in the league in three-point attempts per game at 35.8 and 14th in three-point percentage at 36.9%. The inclusion of Shamet could significantly enhance these stats, forming a robust perimeter shooting lineup with other notable additions.
Donte DiVincenzo and Jalen Brunson, who accounted for 42% of the Knicks' long-range attempts last season, will be crucial in integrating Shamet into their shooting rotations. This trio, combined with Julius Randle’s five plus three-point attempts per game at a 31.1% success rate last season, offers the Knicks a multi-faceted offensive approach capable of stretching defenses and creating more scoring opportunities.
Summer Acquisitions
The Knicks have been busy this summer, also acquiring wingman Mikal Bridges, a strategic pick-up known for his defensive prowess and three-point accuracy. Bridges boasts a career three-point shooting percentage of 37.5%, and his addition further complements the Knicks’ perimeter game. These acquisitions suggest a tactical shift towards a high-volume three-point shooting strategy, leveraging the skills of their new and existing players.
Additionally, the Knicks secured backup point guard Cameron Payne, another strategic addition known for his solid three-point shooting, with a career mark of 36.9%. Payne’s presence will provide depth and reliable shooting off the bench, ensuring the Knicks can maintain their perimeter threat throughout the game.
Looking Ahead
As the Knicks gear up for the new season, the integration of Shamet, Bridges, and Payne into their roster is poised to reshape their offensive identity. These moves reflect a clear intent to enhance their three-point shooting game, essential for competing in the modern NBA where outside shooting is crucial.
Shamet’s performance will be under scrutiny, given his recent dip with the Wizards. However, his career numbers suggest that he has the capability to rebound and contribute effectively to New York’s aspirations. The combined experience and shooting proficiency of these new additions position the Knicks as a potentially formidable perimeter shooting team, ready to escalate their offensive efficiency and compete at a higher level.
Ultimately, the Knicks’ front office has set the stage for a significant transformation, aiming to capitalize on the skills of their new acquisitions. With a renewed focus on three-point efficiency, the Knicks are gearing up for what promises to be a thrilling season, filled with strategic plays and sharpshooting displays.