The New York Knicks have made a strategic move by signing veteran shooting guard Landry Shamet to a one-year deal. The acquisition of Shamet adds another sharp-shooter to the Knicks' roster, aiming to bolster their perimeter game. This deal marks Shamet's sixth team in his eight-season career, a testament to his ability to adapt and contribute to various team dynamics.
Shamet's Journey in the NBA
Landry Shamet entered the NBA as a first-round pick by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2018. His rookie season saw an unexpected twist as he was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers midway through the season. Over the years, Shamet has showcased his shooting prowess, particularly from beyond the arc. He holds a commendable career three-point shooting percentage of 38.4%, a skill that the Knicks hope to fully utilize in the upcoming season.
Despite his consistency, Shamet's last season with the Washington Wizards was below his usual standards, as he posted a 33.8% success rate from three-point range over 46 games. This decline could be attributed to various external factors, including team dynamics and play style. However, the Knicks are optimistic that a change of scenery and a clearly defined role could reignite Shamet’s sharpshooting abilities.
Knicks' Three-Point Strategy
The Knicks, who ranked 13th in the league in three-point attempts per game at 35.8 last season, and 14th in three-point percentage at 36.9%, have shown a clear intent to strengthen their perimeter game. The additions of Shamet, Mikal Bridges, and Cameron Payne are strategic moves to improve their long-range efficiency.
Mikal Bridges, acquired earlier this summer, brings a career three-point percentage of 37.5%, adding depth and reliability to the Knicks' wings. Cameron Payne, signed as a backup point guard, boasts a career three-point mark of 36.9%. These signings complement the existing core, including Donte DiVincenzo and Jalen Brunson, who combined for 42% of the Knicks' long-range attempts last season.
Star forward Julius Randle, despite his 31.1% three-point shooting last season, attempted more than five shots from beyond the arc per game. The Knicks will look to create a more balanced attack, potentially reducing the volume of three-point attempts from less efficient shooters and redistributing those opportunities to newly acquired sharpshooters.
Building a Competitive Edge
The Knicks’ front office has clearly been active this off-season, assembling a roster that mixes veteran experience with youthful potential. Shamet’s signing could be a significant piece of the puzzle. His ability to stretch the floor is essential in today’s NBA, where the three-point shot has become a pivotal element of offensive strategy. If Shamet can return to his career average from beyond the arc, he could serve as a crucial spacer for the Knicks' offense.
Both Bridges and Payne bring additional depth, ensuring that the Knicks are covered in multiple positions. Bridges' versatility and shooting, combined with Payne's playmaking and perimeter threat, could free up All-Star caliber forward Julius Randle to operate more effectively inside or drive and dish to open shooters.
The Knicks' strategy seems to emphasize not just acquiring talent but fitting these pieces into a cohesive system that maximizes their strengths. The integration of proven three-point shooters like Shamet, Bridges, and Payne could make the Knicks a more formidable opponent and significantly impact their standing in the highly competitive Eastern Conference.
As the new season approaches, the Knicks' roster looks more balanced and prepared to embrace modern basketball dynamics. With the addition of Landry Shamet, the team has taken a thoughtful step toward enhancing their three-point capabilities, aiming to elevate their offensive efficiency and overall competitiveness in the league.