In a strategic move to enhance their roster ahead of a highly competitive season, the New York Knicks have signed veteran forward Marcus Morris and guard Landry Shamet to Exhibit 9 contracts. These signings are part of a broader strategy aimed at deepening the team's bench and adding versatility on both ends of the court.
Training Camp Invitations
The Exhibit 9 contracts offered to Morris and Shamet are essentially invitations to the Knicks' training camp, giving both players an opportunity to earn a spot on the final roster. Notably, these contracts are non-guaranteed, offering minimal financial risk for the team. However, should either player sustain an injury during camp, they are entitled to a $15,000 compensation - a small but significant safety net.
Marcus Morris: Veteran Experience and Leadership
Marcus Morris, a seasoned forward entering his 14th NBA season, brings a wealth of experience to the Knicks. At 35 years old, Morris has played for multiple teams, most recently with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Despite being signed to a 10-day contract initially, Morris quickly proved his worth by averaging 5.8 points per game and achieving a remarkable 41.4% shooting percentage from three-point range over 12 regular-season games. His contributions were crucial in helping the Cavaliers make their first playoff advance since 2018.
Morris's ability to stretch the floor and provide veteran leadership will be invaluable to the Knicks. His role as a big forward who offers reliable outside shooting could see him provide essential support behind key Knicks players like OG Anunoby, Julius Randle, and Josh Hart. Morris's 13 years of NBA experience, combined with his recent performance, make him a strong contender for a spot on the final roster.
Landry Shamet: Sharpshooting and Floor Spacing
At 27 years old, Landry Shamet is another exciting addition to the Knicks' training camp roster. Known for his sharpshooting, Shamet averaged 7.1 points per game with the Washington Wizards last season and boasts a career three-point shooting percentage of 38.4%. His ability to space the floor can provide a significant boost to the Knicks' offensive schemes.
Shamet's reliability from the three-point line makes him a valuable asset in today's NBA, where outside shooting has become increasingly critical. His performance in training camp will determine whether he can carve out a niche role on the Knicks' roster.
Strategic Flexibility and Competition
The flexibility of Exhibit 9 contracts allows the Knicks to assess the fitness and team fit of both Morris and Shamet without committing significant financial resources upfront. This pragmatic approach ensures that every roster spot is filled thoughtfully, a necessity in the fiercely competitive Eastern Conference.
The Knicks have long been one of the most storied franchises in the NBA, and the current front office appears to be leaving no stone unturned in their quest to build a team capable of making a deep playoff run. By bringing in proven players like Morris and Shamet, the Knicks are adding much-needed depth and dimension to their game plan.
As training camp progresses, all eyes will be on how these two veterans integrate with the existing squad. Both players have demonstrated their ability to contribute at a high level and will be eager to showcase their skills to secure a spot on the final roster. Whether it's Morris's veteran savvy and floor spacing or Shamet's sharpshooting and offensive reliability, these signings could play a pivotal role in the Knicks' success this season.