In a strategic move to enhance their roster depth, the New York Knicks have signed veteran forward Marcus Morris and guard Landry Shamet to Exhibit 9 contracts. These agreements effectively serve as training camp invitations, granting both players the chance to compete for a spot on the final roster. While their contracts are non-guaranteed, they include a provision that entitles each player to $15,000 should they sustain injuries during the camp.
Veteran Leadership and Sharpshooting
Marcus Morris, a seasoned 35-year-old forward, brings a wealth of experience and versatility. Morris is joining the Knicks after a brief but impactful stint with the Cleveland Cavaliers last season. Initially signed to a 10-day contract in March, Morris showcased his skills and earned a spot for the remainder of the season. During his time with the Cavaliers, he averaged 5.8 points per game and displayed an impressive 41.4% shooting from beyond the arc over 12 regular-season games.
Morris played a pivotal role in the Cavaliers' progression in the playoffs for the first time since 2018, providing crucial veteran leadership and floor spacing as a big forward. With 13 years of NBA experience, he has the ability to stretch the floor and could offer valuable support behind key players like OG Anunoby, Julius Randle, and Josh Hart.
Younger Talent with Potential
On the other hand, Landry Shamet, a 27-year-old guard, is known for his sharpshooting and potential to become a critical asset for the Knicks. Last season with the Washington Wizards, Shamet averaged 7.1 points per game and holds a career 3-point shooting percentage of 38.4%. His ability to space the floor adds another dimension to the Knicks' offensive scheme, providing reliability from the three-point line.
Strategic Flexibility
The flexibility offered by Exhibit 9 contracts allows the Knicks to evaluate Morris and Shamet's fitness and fit within the team dynamics without a significant financial commitment. This strategic approach is part of a broader objective to enhance team depth and versatility, addressing the highly competitive nature of the Eastern Conference, where every roster spot needs to be filled thoughtfully.
Team Dynamics
Morris’s capacity to play as a stretch forward and Shamet’s sharpshooting make them intriguing additions to the Knicks' training camp roster. The potential impact of both players could be substantial, with their proven ability to contribute at high levels. As the Knicks continue to build on their storied history in the NBA, securing the right mix of talent is paramount to attaining success in an increasingly competitive league.
The additions of Morris and Shamet may well prove to be key moves in a broader strategy to enrich the Knicks' roster, adding necessary dimensions to their offensive and defensive playbooks. As training camp progresses, it remains to be seen how both players will integrate into the team and whether they will secure their spots on the final roster. However, their experience and skill sets certainly give them a fighting chance to contribute meaningfully to one of the NBA's most storied franchises.