In a strategic move aimed at bolstering their backcourt, the New York Knicks have signed veteran shooting guard Landry Shamet to a one-year contract. As Shamet gears up for his sixth team in eight seasons, he brings with him a track record of sharpshooting and experience that could prove valuable for the Knicks' three-point game.
An Experienced Addition
Drafted in the first round by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2018, Shamet quickly made a name for himself as a reliable perimeter shooter. However, his rookie season saw a mid-way trade to the Los Angeles Clippers, marking the first of several transitions in his career. Despite the frequent changes, Shamet has maintained a career three-point shooting percentage of 38.4%—a testament to his consistency from beyond the arc.
Last season, Shamet played for the Washington Wizards, where he posted a 33.8% success rate from three-point range over 46 games. While this figure is a dip from his career average, his history suggests he can bounce back and provide the Knicks with the shooting depth they need.
Knicks' Three-Point Arsenal
The Knicks have shown a clear strategy in strengthening their three-point shooting capabilities this offseason. Last season, they ranked 13th in three-point attempts per game with an average of 35.8 attempts, and 14th in three-point percentage, shooting 36.9%. Adding proven shooters like Shamet is an integral part of this strategy.
Donte DiVincenzo and Jalen Brunson were responsible for a significant portion of the Knicks' three-point attempts last season, collectively accounting for 42% of the team’s long-range shots. The addition of Shamet, along with other recent signings, should help spread the offensive load more evenly across the roster.
Supporting Cast and Roster Moves
Another major offseason acquisition for the Knicks was Mikal Bridges, who boasts a career three-point shooting percentage of 37.5%. His addition is expected to further enhance the team’s perimeter effectiveness. Bridges’ reliability and defensive prowess make him a vital asset, complementing Shamet's shooting skills.
The Knicks also secured the services of backup point guard Cameron Payne, who brings a career three-point mark of 36.9% to the table. Payne’s role will be pivotal in maintaining the team's offensive tempo and providing quality minutes off the bench.
Team Dynamics
Julius Randle remains a cornerstone of the Knicks' offense, having averaged more than five three-point shots per game last season, although with a lower success rate of 31.1%. The influx of other shooters like Shamet and Bridges might allow Randle to focus more on his versatile inside game, potentially improving his efficiency from distance.
The careful assembly of this roster reflects the Knicks' broader strategy of surrounding their key players with complementary pieces. With each new addition, the team aims to build a more balanced and potent offense capable of competing at higher levels.
In summary, the Knicks' acquisition of Landry Shamet is a calculated step in their ongoing quest to enhance their shooting proficiency. By integrating established shooters, the team is setting the stage for a more dynamic and versatile offensive strategy in the upcoming season.