Through the first 21 games of the season, the Knicks were ranked last in bench scoring, averaging just 21.2 points per game across 12.4 minutes per night.
Given these struggles, the Knicks were anticipated to make moves before the February 6 trade deadline to improve second-unit scoring. One potential move could involve re-signing veteran sharpshooter Landry Shamet, according to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto.
“Looking ahead, sharpshooter Landry Shamet is expected to be re-signed by the Knicks once he’s healthy, with the expectation that stretch forward Matt Ryan will clear waivers and then re-sign on a two-way contract,” Scotto reported on December 2.
Shamet was with the Knicks during training camp but was waived after dislocating his right shoulder in a preseason game.
Before the injury, Shamet was averaging 10.8 points in 22 minutes per game during the preseason. ESPN’s Shams Charania and Bobby Marks had noted he was almost certain to make the Knicks roster before the injury occurred.
Tom Thibodeau Wants Shamet Back
The ESPN report also highlighted that Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau is a strong supporter of Landry Shamet and wants the veteran sharpshooter on the team for the stretch run leading up to the 2025 playoffs.
“New York coach Tom Thibodeau has spoken highly of the guard multiple times throughout training camp, emphasizing how he would fit in with the team,” the report stated. “Thibodeau particularly values Shamet’s previous experience playing alongside Mikal Bridges and Cameron Payne — both of whom joined the Knicks this summer.”
Given the Knicks’ bench struggles, a player like Shamet — a career 8.7 points per game scorer — would be a valuable addition. Moreover, with a career three-point shooting percentage of 38%, Shamet would address many of the team’s second-unit shooting issues.
So far, through the first 21 games, the Knicks’ bench has averaged just 9.3 three-point attempts per game. In contrast, rival teams like the Celtics (15.6), Cavaliers (16.1), and Bucks (14.0) have far more established shooters coming off the bench to support their starters.
Knicks Also Looking to Make Trades
The Knicks’ front office, led by Executive Vice President Leon Rose and Senior Basketball Advisor William Wesley, was highly aggressive during the 2024 offseason, acquiring Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges through a pair of trades.
Additionally, the Knicks secured long-term deals with Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby, signaling their commitment to winning. As a result, it’s widely anticipated that New York will look to make another big move near the 2025 trade deadline, particularly to strengthen the bench scoring.
Ahead of the February 6 deadline, NBA insiders have suggested potential targets like Nikola Vucevic, Cameron Thomas, and Chris Boucher. According to HoopsHype, Mitchell Robinson and Precious Achiuwa are the two Knicks most likely to be traded.
“Knicks center Mitchell Robinson is owed $14.32 million this season and $12.95 million next season, while Precious Achiuwa is on an expiring $6 million deal. Combining both salaries would give the Knicks a theoretical chance to acquire another player in the $20 million range if there’s a fit,” Scotto reported on December 2.
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