The New York Knicks are addressing their roster needs by adding experienced players who can contribute if injuries occur, a lesson learned from the previous season. To enhance their bench strength, the team has signed veteran shooting guard Landry Shamet to a one-year contract. This move reflects the Knicks’ strategy to have dependable options available in case of unexpected challenges.
Landry Shamet, who has played for several teams including the Sixers, Clippers, Nets, Suns, and Wizards, will reunite with Mikal Bridges, a former teammate from the Phoenix Suns. At 27, Shamet brings six seasons of NBA experience and a career three-point shooting average of 38.4%. Although his shooting percentage dropped to 33.8% last season with the Wizards, the Knicks expect him to perform better with improved shot opportunities.
In his role with the Knicks, Shamet will serve as a backup to starter Mikal Bridges and backup Donte DiVincenzo. While his playing time may be limited due to his position behind these key players, the decision to bring in a veteran like Shamet highlights the Knicks’ focus on having reliable, experienced players rather than younger, less-tested options. This approach is a direct response to the previous season’s challenges.
The Knicks’ roster now includes 14 fully guaranteed contracts, with Shamet’s addition filling the 15th and final regular-season spot. The specifics of Shamet’s contract are not fully detailed, but it is likely structured to be non-guaranteed initially, potentially becoming fully guaranteed by January 10 if he remains with the team.
This flexibility is essential as the Knicks still need to address their backup center position behind Mitchell Robinson.
Additionally, forward Chuma Okeke has been signed to a non-guaranteed one-year deal. With the roster now at its maximum, either Okeke or Shamet will need to be waived before the season begins. The Knicks are keeping their options open to make necessary adjustments, particularly to fulfill their need for a backup center, as they finalize their roster decisions.
