Noah Rosenstein
Updated on: October 12, 2024 3:04 am GMT
The New York Knicks have made a significant move in their quest to enhance their roster for the upcoming NBA season by signing veteran forward Marcus Morris Sr. to an Exhibit 9 contract. This decision, announced on Sunday, marks Morris’s return to New York, where he previously played for the team during the 2019-20 season.
Understanding the Exhibit 9 Contract
An Exhibit 9 contract is a non-guaranteed one-year deal that provides the team with a safety net if the player suffers a significant injury. This type of contract protects the Knicks while allowing them to evaluate Morris’s performance in training camp and the preseason. In addition to Morris, the Knicks also signed guard Landry Shamet to a similar contract, positioning both players for competition for the team’s final roster spot.
Morris’s Role and Recent Performance
At 35 years old, Morris brings over a decade of experience in the NBA. Last season, he played for the Philadelphia 76ers and the Cleveland Cavaliers, averaging 6.4 points and 2.7 rebounds per game over 49 appearances. His postseason performance included a notable 25-point outing in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Boston Celtics. While his role has diminished in recent years, his veteran presence could prove invaluable on a young Knicks squad.
Comparing Morris and Shamet
Morris will face competition for the roster spot from fellow newcomer Landry Shamet, who spent last season with the Washington Wizards. Shamet averaged 7.1 points and 1.2 assists per game, primarily playing as a guard. The Knicks will need to evaluate both players closely, as they fulfill different roles on the team:
- Marcus Morris Sr.: Forward, predominantly contributing as a scorer and veteran leader.
- Landry Shamet: Guard, focusing on ball handling and perimeter shooting.
This competition will be critical for the Knicks as they finalize their roster ahead of the 2024-25 season.
Knicks’ Ambitions for the Upcoming Season
The Knicks concluded last season with a strong 50-32 record, securing the second-best mark in the Eastern Conference. Despite their success, they fell short against the Indiana Pacers in the Conference semifinals. The organization is keen to build on this momentum and make a deeper playoff run. With the addition of either Morris or Shamet, they aim to address areas of need that were evident during last season’s postseason.
Potential Impacts of Morris’s Return
Morris’s first stint with the Knicks was notable; he averaged 19.6 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.4 assists during his initial time with the organization in 2019-20. He recorded 25 games with 20 points or more, showcasing his scoring ability. Although his scoring output dipped last season, his experience and familiarity with the New York environment might help him regain some of his previous form. His background could also serve as a mentorship opportunity for younger players on the roster.
What Lies Ahead for the Knicks
As training camp approaches, the Knicks will focus on integrating Morris and Shamet into their system. With most of the core roster already established, it remains to be seen which player will secure the final spot. The team’s management will have to consider factors such as performance, fit within the system, and overall contributions to team dynamics. The decisions made in the coming weeks will be pivotal as the Knicks continue their pursuit of postseason success.
- Key Players to Watch:
- Marcus Morris Sr.
- Landry Shamet
- R.J. Barrett
- Julius Randle
The trade-off between incorporating experience and youth defines the Knicks’ approach this season. With the right combination of talent and experience, New York is poised for a promising 2024-25 NBA campaign.
Marcus Morris Sr. joining the Knicks shows that the team is serious about getting better and wants to be strong enough to compete for a spot in the playoffs.
