Last year was a new year for Landry Shamet.
That was different.
For the first time in his six-year NBA career, he didn't make the playoffs.
He was traded to the Wizards for Bradley Beal before the season and was on one of the worst teams in the league.
NBA preseason game. NBAE (via Getty Images)
So when the opportunity arose to join the Knicks, even on a partially guaranteed one-year deal, he jumped at the chance.
“Everyone wants to win, they want to compete. Anyone who says that's not the case in the NBA is lying,” the 6-foot-4 guard told the Post. “We all want to compete at the highest level and we're so excited to be here. Last year was last year, that's just the way it was. To come here and move forward with this group, I’m excited to build it.”
Shamet, 27, wasn't guaranteed a roster spot entering training camp, but he quickly made an impression on Tom Thibodeau.
In Sunday's preseason opener against the Hornets, he came off the bench as a member of the second unit and scored 16 points and made four 3-pointers in 26 minutes.
For now, it looks like he'll play a role with the contending Knicks.
“It's obvious what they're building here. We've seen it the last few years and last year they were at a good level,” he said, averaging 7.1 points in 15.8 minutes in 46 league games last year. , said Shamet, who shot 43 percent. Wizards. “Trying to win, trying to compete at the highest level, that excited me, as does everyone in this room. That's definitely the biggest part. I just wanted to be a part of it. It is.”
A former first-round pick out of Wichita State, he was a good role player who was considered a candidate throughout his career as a 38.4 percent 3-point shooter.
During a game against the Charlotte Hornets. NBAE (via Getty Images)
The Knicks hope he can make similar contributions.
Another benefit for Shamet in joining the Knicks is that he has some familiarity, having played alongside Cam Payne and Mikal Bridges in Phoenix from 2021 to 2023.
“That’s awesome, dude,” he said. “It's great to be back in the locker room with those guys, who are two of the best teammates anyone could have. Good energy, good people. I spent a few years with both of them, so here I am. I'm very happy to be back.”
The Knicks signed former Northwestern star Bou Bouye to an Exhibition 10 contract, the team announced Monday.
Bouye played for the Suns during NBA Summer League.
— Additional reporting by Stefan Bondy
