The New York Knicks have made a strategic move by signing veteran shooting guard Landry Shamet to a one-year deal. This acquisition marks Shamet’s sixth team in eight NBA seasons, signaling both his demand and the quest by teams to leverage his shooting abilities.
A Career on the Move
Shamet entered the league as a first-round pick by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2018. His rookie season saw an early transition as he was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers mid-way through the year. Since then, Shamet has journeyed through several teams, each time bringing his sharp-shooting prowess to the table.
The Knicks will be hoping to tap into Shamet’s career average of 38.4% from beyond the arc. Although last season with the Washington Wizards, he posted a modest 33.8% over 46 games, this is only a slight deviation from his typical performance.
Knicks' Three-Point Landscape
Last season, the Knicks ranked 13th in the league in three-point attempts per game at 35.8, and 14th in three-point percentage at 36.9%. These statistics underline the importance of perimeter shooting in their offensive strategy.
Two players, Donte DiVincenzo and Jalen Brunson, were particularly instrumental in the Knicks' long-range game, accounting for 42% of the team's three-point attempts. Additionally, Julius Randle, another key player, averaged more than five three-point shots per game last season, albeit with a 31.1% conversion rate.
Building a Better Perimeter
The Knicks have clearly identified three-point shooting as a critical area for improvement. The signing of Shamet is part of a broader effort to bolster their effectiveness from downtown. Earlier this summer, the Knicks acquired Mikal Bridges, a player with a career three-point shooting percentage of 37.5%. Their determination didn’t stop there; they also secured the services of backup point guard Cameron Payne, who boasts a career three-point mark of 36.9%.
With these additions, the Knicks are not only deepening their roster but also enhancing their three-point shooting capabilities. Shamet will join a roster that seems poised to make a significant impact from beyond the arc.
Expectations for the Upcoming Season
Shamet’s arrival could provide the Knicks with the additional shooting edge they need to climb higher in the league standings. His experience and skill set will likely offer the Knicks more versatility in their offensive schemes. When looking at Shamet’s career trajectory and the Knicks' recent moves, there is a clear emphasis on creating a well-rounded and dynamic perimeter attack.
As Shamet prepares to step onto the court in New York, the upcoming NBA season holds promise for both him and the Knicks. Past performance and recent acquisitions suggest a strategic vision aimed at boosting their shooting efficiency and overall offensive dynamism. Knicks fans will be eager to see how these calculated moves translate into performance when the season kicks off.