In a move that probably won’t have fans dancing down Seventh Avenue, but is a solid piece of business nonetheless, the New York Knicks are bringing back veteran Guard Landry Shamet to round out their roster. Let’s be honest, it’s not the blockbuster signing that sends shockwaves through the league, but it’s a smart, savvy play for a team with championship aspirations.
Shamet, who apparently enjoyed his first tour of duty in the “Big Apple,” decided to run it back with the Knicks, turning down other offers to stick with a team he believes can make a serious title run. You have to respect the guy’s ambition. He saw the roster and wanted to come back. How will he look?
What Does Shamet Bring To the Knicks?
So, what are the Knicks getting by re-signing Shamet? Last season, he put up a modest 5.7 points per game, which won’t exactly light up the scoreboard. But where he earns his paycheck is from beyond the arc. The man shot a blistering 39.7% from three-point range. In today’s NBA, you can never have enough shooters, and Shamet provides that instant offense off the bench.
Think back to the playoffs. While he mostly saw action in garbage time, he had moments where he provided a much-needed spark. Remember that 12-point burst in the Game 6 loss to the Pacers? That is the kind of firepower that can swing a playoff game. He’s a reliable floor-spacer who can come in cold and knock down a big shot.
How Does This Move Affect the Knicks’ Roster?
With the signings of Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele, the Knicks were pretty much down to their last few roster spots before hitting that dreaded second apron. Bringing back Shamet on a veteran minimum deal is a low-risk, high-reward move. He knows the system, he provides a specific skill set, and he clearly wants to be here.
Under new Head Coach Mike Brown, Shamet’s role is still up in the air. But having a seasoned pro who can stretch the floor gives the new coaching staff another weapon to deploy. He’s the kind of player who might not play every night but will be ready when his number is called. It is a depth move, a chemistry move, and a sign that the Knicks are focused on building a complete, championship-caliber team from top to bottom. It is not flashy, but winning championships rarely is.
