Landry Shamet: The Unexpected Hero of the Knicks
In a pivotal year for the New York Knicks, where they sought a reliable contributor from their depth, it turns out that the unexpected hero has been Landry Shamet, a player who was once on the brink of not returning to the team. Rather than the anticipated breakout from other returning players or major offseason signings, Shamet has risen from a benchwarmer to a significant starter, boasting a three-point shooting percentage of 42.4% and playing a vital role in the team’s critical victories.
Shamet’s Journey with the Knicks
Shamet first arrived at the Knicks during last year’s training camp and impressed coaches with his skill, earning a place in their preseason lineup. Unfortunately, his season suffered a setback due to a shoulder injury that cut his time short. The Knicks, recognizing his potential and determination, opted to release him but arranged for him to recover with their G-League affiliate in Westchester.
After several months and a few games in the developmental league, the Knicks summoned him back just before Christmas. His initial return saw him struggle to regain his form, as he battled through 19 games and performed below expectations with a three-point percentage in the low 30s.
A Turning Point
However, a turning point arrived in February, when Shamet appeared to rediscover his shooting touch and defensive resolve. Over the last 31 games of the season, he excelled with a 42.4% shooting rate from beyond the arc while averaging more than 18 minutes of playtime. In a surprising twist, his role diminished in the playoffs, where after a starting stint in their first game, he saw limited court time against the Pistons, ultimately accumulating several games without playing until the Conference Finals.
Stepping Up in the Playoffs
As the Knicks faced a difficult scenario down 0-2 in their playoff series against Indiana, Shamet stepped up, delivering high-energy performances off the bench, including a crucial 12-point game during the decisive Game 6. This strong showing garnered him admiration from fans and may have solidified his position on the roster for this season.
Continued Success Under New Leadership
Now, under new head coach Mike Brown, Shamet has continued to thrive, averaging 9.9 points while keeping his impressive three-point percentage intact. Despite slightly more playing time last season, he has found efficiency, helping raise New York’s defensive metrics as well. Surprisingly, opponents’ shooting efficacy decreases with him on the court—an attribute that, coupled with his solid offensive skills, makes him a valuable asset.
Versatility and Impact
Beyond catch-and-shoot opportunities, Shamet has demonstrated versatility, hitting 43.8% of his pull-up threes and showing promise as a secondary ball-handler alongside Jalen Brunson. His offensive capabilities culminated in a remarkable game against Miami, where he scored a career-high 36 points, lighting up the floor with 30 points in the second half and made a significant impact late in another game by sealing victory with crucial three-pointers and a game-winning defensive play.
Conclusion
Shamet’s unexpected rise has not only contributed to New York’s successful early season but also presents an inspiring narrative for fans as the team navigates the challenges of a deep playoff run. His development is essential not only for the team’s title aspirations but also solidifies his story as an emblematic New York player for fans to rally behind.
