Cleveland Cavaliers vs New York Knicks (Image via Getty) The New York Knicks have officially signed free agent guard Landry Shamet to a one-year contract for the 2025-26 NBA season. This move adds a reliable and familiar role player to the Knicks’ bench as they aim to build continuity and remain contenders in the Eastern Conference. The deal provides mutual benefits, balancing the team’s need for floor spacing and experience with Shamet’s desire for meaningful playing time in a supportive environment. This article examines the structure of the deal, its benefits to both parties, its advantages and drawbacks, statistical and demographic insights, and an overall assessment of who benefits most from the signing.
Details of Landry Shamet’s One-Year Deal and Salary Cap Implications
Landry Shamet’s contract with the New York Knicks is a straightforward, one-year deal that aligns with the team’s need for depth without compromising long-term financial flexibility. Veteran players like Shamet often seek short-term deals to secure playing time while contributing to contending teams. Shamet’s choice to return reflects his preference for familiarity and stability, rather than exploring competing offers.The New York Knicks had salary cap space under the NBA’s Secondary Apron rules, which allowed them to fit Landry Shamet’s veteran minimum or near-minimum deal within their 15-man roster. While alternatives like Ben Simmons and Malik Beasley were considered, Shamet’s established presence and comfort with the Knicks’ system made him the preferred option.
New York Knicks Gain Reliable Shooting and Locker Room Stability
For the New York Knicks, re-signing Shamet brings a familiar player who has already demonstrated value in both regular season and playoff settings. Last season, Shamet appeared in 50 games, averaging 5.7 points per game while shooting 39.7% from three-point range. His ability to stretch the floor off the bench complemented the Knicks’ core scorers, offering much-needed spacing.During the playoffs, Shamet’s three-point accuracy rose to 46%, further reinforcing his clutch shooting in high-pressure moments. His presence allows the Knicks to maintain continuity in their rotation without introducing new variables or risking chemistry issues. By keeping Shamet, the Knicks preserve cap space and roster flexibility while focusing on optimizing their star players and future draft or trade plans.
Landry Shamet’s Career Benefits from Returning to a Contender
For Landry Shamet, returning to New York represents both comfort and opportunity. The team’s environment, coaching staff, and locker room dynamics offer him stability and the chance to rebuild momentum after injuries and inconsistent roles in the past. With a one-year deal, Shamet has the opportunity to prove himself, enhance his market value, and earn a longer-term contract in the future.Additionally, Shamet can continue refining his three-point shooting, which remains his strongest asset, and strengthen his veteran leadership role. The New York Knicks’ playoff aspirations provide him with a stage to showcase his ability to contribute in critical moments while leveraging existing relationships within the organization.
Advantages Knicks and Shamet Gain from the Signing
Benefits for the Knicks:
• Proven Three-Point Shooting: Shamet’s near 40% accuracy from deep last season, and 46% in the playoffs, offers consistent spacing for the team’s scorers. • Team Familiarity: Minimal adjustment period as Shamet already understands the system and culture. • Veteran Presence: As an eight-year NBA player, Shamet adds maturity and professionalism to the bench. • Cap-Friendly Deal: The one-year contract preserves financial flexibility without long-term risk.
Benefits for Shamet:
• Stable Environment: Returning to a team where he’s appreciated allows him to maintain his role and routine. • Playoff Exposure: Playing for a contender increases his chances of performing on a larger stage and improving his career prospects. • Opportunity to Prove Himself: A one-year deal offers motivation to showcase his value for future contracts. • Improvement Potential: Continued work on shooting and fit with teammates can enhance his game.
Potential Challenges and Risks of the Deal
Landry Shamet of the New York Knicks (Image via Getty)
Knicks’ Risks:
• Limited Offensive Output: Shamet’s career average of 8.3 points per game reflects modest scoring capacity, which may not carry the bench offensively. • Injury History: A shoulder injury delayed his season start last year, raising concerns about durability. • Uncertain Role: As the Knicks’ roster evolves, Shamet’s minutes and responsibilities could fluctuate under coach Mike Brown. • Shooting Variability: Though often efficient, Shamet’s percentages can vary from season to season.
Shamet’s Risks:
• “Prove-It” Scenario: A short-term contract means his future in the league depends on sustained performance. • Competition for Minutes: Emerging players on the roster could limit his playing time. • Health Considerations: Past injuries may impact his availability or performance.
Shamet’s Performance in Context
SeasonTeamGPMPGPPG3P%FG%FT%APGRPGSTLTO 2024-25 New York Knicks 50 15.2 5.7 39.7% 46.1% 66.7% 0.5 1.2 0.5 1 Career Various 398 21.1 8.3 38.5% 41.3% 83.3% 1.5 1.7 0.5 0.7Landry Shamet’s strength lies in his three-point shooting, providing spacing even in limited minutes. His assist numbers are modest, reflecting his role as a shooter rather than a primary playmaker, while his defensive contributions, such as rebounds and steals, are on par with other guards who serve similar bench roles.
Demographic and Team Context Behind the Signing
• Age: At 28 years old, Shamet is in his athletic prime, combining experience with physical readiness. • Experience: Entering his 8th NBA season, he brings knowledge from multiple teams while having built momentum with the New York Knicks. • Role: Landry Shamet will serve as a bench guard, specializing in perimeter shooting and spacing. • Team Dynamics: His role complements stars like Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby, helping the Knicks compete in the Eastern Conference.
My Two Cents on Which Side Gains More?
Overall, the New York Knicks appear to benefit slightly more from this signing. By adding a dependable, playoff-tested sharpshooter without risking cap space or disrupting team chemistry, they enhance their bench depth and stability heading into another push for the postseason.Landry Shamet, meanwhile, gains a platform to rebuild and showcase his skills in a familiar and supportive environment. The one-year deal offers him a chance to prove his worth and potentially secure a more lucrative contract down the line.This pragmatic reunion serves both parties: the New York Knicks reinforce their roster for the upcoming season, and Landry Shamet earns the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to a contending team while aiming to further his career.
Why This Signing Matters for Team Building and Player Development
This deal exemplifies how veteran role players and teams with championship aspirations can mutually benefit from low-risk, short-term contracts. By opting for continuity and cost-effectiveness, the Knicks strengthen their bench without sacrificing flexibility. At the same time, Shamet gains a platform to thrive within a familiar system, allowing him to enhance his skill set and career prospects.Also read: NBA Trade News: Los Angeles Lakers Sign $165 Million Star’s Former Teammate on Exhibit 10 Deal; How It Impacts Title OddsAs the New York Knicks look ahead to the 2025-26 season, retaining Landry Shamet reflects a deliberate approach to roster construction – balancing experience, chemistry, and long-term planning while maximizing their chances for success.