In a strategic effort to strengthen their roster, the New York Knicks have made notable moves by signing veteran forward Marcus Morris and guard Landry Shamet to Exhibit 9 contracts. These agreements are essentially trials, enabling both players to participate in the Knicks’ training camp and vie for permanent spots on the final roster.
What stands out about these non-guaranteed contracts is the inclusion of a $15,000 injury provision for each player. This condition ensures they receive some financial security should they get injured during camp activities, a critical factor given the physical demands of professional basketball.
Marcus Morris: Veteran Presence and Sharpshooting
Marcus Morris, a 35-year-old forward, brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the Knicks. He arrives in New York after a brief yet impactful stint with the Cleveland Cavaliers last season. Initially signed to a 10-day contract in March, Morris quickly proved his worth, averaging 5.8 points per game and showcasing a commendable 41.4% shooting accuracy from beyond the arc over 12 regular-season games.
Morris’s contributions were crucial in the Cavaliers' first playoff advancement since 2018. His ability to stretch the floor as a big forward and provide veteran leadership made him indispensable. With 13 years of NBA experience under his belt, Morris's versatility and sharpshooting prowess could offer the Knicks significant depth behind key players such as OG Anunoby, Julius Randle, and Josh Hart.
Landry Shamet: Reliable from Downtown
Joining Morris in the Knicks’ training camp is 27-year-old guard Landry Shamet. Last season, Shamet played for the Washington Wizards, where he averaged 7.1 points per game. Known for his sharpshooting skills, Shamet boasts a career 3-point shooting percentage of 38.4%, making him a valuable asset for any team looking to enhance their perimeter offense.
Shamet's ability to space the floor will be pivotal for the Knicks as they aim to add new dimensions to their offensive and defensive schemes. His reliability from the three-point line complements the team’s strategy of enhancing depth and versatility, crucial elements in the highly competitive landscape of the Eastern Conference.
Strategic Flexibility
The Exhibit 9 contracts offer the Knicks the flexibility to evaluate Morris and Shamet’s fitness and fit within the team dynamics without a major financial obligation. This strategic maneuver reflects the Knicks’ broader goal of thoughtfully filling every roster spot to remain competitive in the Eastern Conference.
Both Morris and Shamet have demonstrated their ability to contribute at a high level. Morris, with his veteran insight and court spacing, and Shamet, with his consistent shooting, provide the Knicks with promising options as they refine their roster for the upcoming season.
As one of the most storied franchises in the NBA, the New York Knicks continue to focus on building a team capable of competing at the highest levels. The addition of experienced players like Morris and Sharpshooters like Shamet illustrates their commitment to bolstering their roster with versatile and reliable talents. Should these players secure their spots, they could become integral parts of the Knicks’ bid for success in the fiercely contested Eastern Conference.