NEW YORK – The New York Knicks are facing a pleasantly unexpected dilemma as the playoffs approach: what to do with Landry Shamet? Once considered a likely candidate to be sidelined as the team narrowed its rotation, the guard has been playing with a level of effectiveness that’s forcing coach Mike Brown to reconsider his postseason plans. The Knicks, currently vying for playoff positioning in the Eastern Conference, are now grappling with how to balance rewarding Shamet’s recent performance with the need to streamline their roster for the intensity of the postseason.
Shamet’s resurgence comes at a critical juncture for the Knicks, who have built a strong team identity around a core group of players. While the team has a clear hierarchy, Shamet’s consistent contributions, particularly his three-point shooting, are making a compelling case for his inclusion in the playoff rotation. The question isn’t whether Shamet is playing well – the statistics demonstrate he is – but rather how the Knicks can best utilize his skills without disrupting the chemistry and rhythm of a team that has largely found success with a defined lineup.
The 26-year-old Shamet, acquired by the Knicks in February 2024, initially struggled to find consistent playing time. Although, over the last 11 games, he’s averaged 12.2 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 2.0 assists while shooting an impressive 47.5% from the field, and 41.7% from beyond the arc on 6.5 three-point attempts per game, according to data compiled by Daily Knicks. During this stretch, the Knicks have gone 7-4, highlighting Shamet’s positive impact on the team’s performance.
Shamet’s Three-Point Prowess Creates a Rotational Puzzle
Shamet’s ability to consistently knock down three-pointers is particularly valuable in today’s NBA, where spacing the floor is paramount. His shooting provides a crucial offensive weapon, especially when paired with the pick-and-roll game of Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns. Having a reliable shooter like Shamet on the court forces defenses to account for his presence, creating opportunities for his teammates to operate more freely.
However, the Knicks’ depth presents a challenge. Brunson, Towns, OG Anunoby, Josh Hart, and Mikal Bridges are all considered locks for significant minutes in the playoffs. Mitchell Robinson and Miles McBride, when healthy, are also expected to play key roles. Adding Shamet to that mix, along with players like Mohamed Diawara and Jose Alvarado, could push the rotation to ten players – a number that most coaches consider too high for postseason play. Most teams aim for an eight-man rotation during the playoffs to maintain consistency and chemistry.
According to ESPN, Landry Shamet is currently listed as a guard for the New York Knicks. His player profile provides updated stats and game highlights.
A Complicated Playoff Picture for Coach Brown
The decision facing coach Mike Brown is not simply about whether Shamet is decent enough to play, but rather about which players to prioritize in a limited number of minutes. Cutting players who have contributed to the team’s success is never easy, and Brown will need to carefully weigh the potential benefits of Shamet’s shooting against the need to maintain continuity with his established core.
Shamet’s journey to this point has been notable. Born in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1997, he played college basketball at Wichita State before being drafted 26th overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2018. He has since played for the Los Angeles Clippers, Brooklyn Nets, Phoenix Suns, and Washington Wizards before landing with the Knicks. His Wikipedia page details his career trajectory and accomplishments, including being named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team in 2019 and winning the NBA Cup in 2025.
The Impact of Recent Performance
Shamet’s recent success isn’t just about scoring. He’s also demonstrating a willingness to defend and contribute in other areas of the game, making him a more versatile and valuable asset. This all-around improvement is what’s making the decision even more tough for Brown.
The Knicks’ playoff fate will likely hinge on their ability to maximize the contributions of all their players, and finding a way to incorporate Shamet’s strengths without compromising the team’s overall balance will be a key challenge. The coming weeks will be crucial as Brown evaluates his options and prepares for the intensity of the postseason.
As the Knicks prepare for the playoffs, the team will continue to assess Shamet’s role and how he can best contribute to their success. The next few games will be critical in determining his place in the rotation and whether he will be a key contributor during the team’s postseason run.
What do you feel? Should the Knicks find a way to keep Landry Shamet in the playoff rotation, or is his role best served as a situational player? Share your thoughts in the comments below and be sure to share this article with fellow Knicks fans.
