The New York Knicks have made headlines by signing veteran shooting guard Landry Shamet to a one-year deal. Shamet, a first-round pick by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2018, has become a well-traveled player, marking his sixth team in eight seasons with this move. His journey through the NBA has seen him play for the 76ers, Los Angeles Clippers, and most recently, the Washington Wizards, among others.
An Experienced Sharpshooter
Throughout his career, Shamet has been known for his proficiency from beyond the arc, boasting a career success rate of 38.4%. This shooting ability makes him a valuable addition to the Knicks, who are looking to bolster their three-point shooting options. Last season, Shamet posted a 33.8% three-point shooting rate over 46 games with the Wizards. While this figure is below his career average, the Knicks are undoubtedly hoping that Shamet can regain his top form in the upcoming season.
Knicks' Three-Point Landscape
The Knicks have been active this offseason, making strategic acquisitions to enhance their perimeter presence. Last season, New York ranked 13th in the league in three-point attempts per game, averaging 35.8 attempts. They also ranked 14th in three-point percentage, connecting on 36.9% of their attempts. Notably, Donte DiVincenzo and Jalen Brunson were responsible for 42% of the team’s long-range shots, demonstrating their reliance on key players to generate offense from the outside.
Impact of Julius Randle
Forward Julius Randle played a significant role in the Knicks' offensive strategy last season, averaging more than five three-point shots per game. However, his success rate was a modest 31.1%, indicating room for improvement. The addition of Shamet, along with other new signings, aims to diversify and strengthen New York's long-range shooting arsenal.
New Additions and Their Potential
Alongside Shamet, the Knicks have also secured the services of Mikal Bridges and Cameron Payne. Bridges, acquired earlier this summer, holds a career three-point shooting percentage of 37.5%, while Payne boasts a career mark of 36.9%. These additions reflect the Knicks' strategic emphasis on surrounding their core players with reliable three-point shooters.
Bridges, known for his defensive prowess and versatility, not only adds depth to the Knicks' roster but also enhances their spacing on the floor. Payne, a capable backup point guard, provides additional shooting and playmaking off the bench. Both players complement the existing roster and offer head coach Tom Thibodeau more options in offensive schemes.
Looking Forward
With these strategic moves, the Knicks are clearly aiming to improve their three-point shooting consistency and overall offensive efficiency. Shamet’s addition, in particular, brings veteran experience and a historically reliable shooting touch to the team. His ability to stretch the floor and create space for driving lanes will be crucial as the Knicks look to climb the standings in the Eastern Conference.
The upcoming season will reveal how these new pieces fit together and whether the Knicks can translate their offseason moves into on-court success. With a blend of new and returning talent, the team is poised to make a strong push in a highly competitive league. As the Knicks gear up for the season, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if the addition of players like Shamet can help the team realize its full potential.