Getty
Landry Shamet of the New York Knicks looks on during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
The New York Knicks will be without Landry Shamet for Sunday’s matchup against the Washington Wizards, as the guard has been ruled out with right knee soreness, according to the NBA injury report.
Shamet suffered the injury during the Knicks’ most recent game, exiting in the third quarter and failing to return. He was initially listed as questionable to come back, but ultimately remained sidelined for the rest of the contest.
The team has since confirmed the issue as right knee soreness, which will keep him out of Sunday’s game and leave his status for upcoming matchups uncertain.
Knicks Lose Key Floor Spacer in Landry Shamet
Shamet has been a valuable contributor for New York this season, particularly as a perimeter shooter.
He is averaging 9.6 points, 1.8 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game while shooting a team-best 43.9% from three-point range.
His ability to stretch the floor has played an important role in the Knicks’ offensive spacing, making his absence notable as the team continues its push in the Eastern Conference standings.
Knicks Backcourt Adjustments Expected
GettyJordan Clarkson of the New York Knicks reacts after hitting a 3-pointer against the San Antonio Spurs in the fourth quarter of the championship game of the Emirates NBA Cup.
With Shamet unavailable, additional minutes are expected to go to Jordan Clarkson and Jose Alvarado.
Clarkson has recently found his rhythm after falling out of the rotation earlier in the season. Over his last five games, the former Sixth Man of the Year is averaging 13.6 points while shooting 46.7% from three-point range.
Alvarado, meanwhile, delivered a strong performance in his first start for New York, recording 16 points and 10 assists in a win over the Indiana Pacers.
Both players are expected to take on larger roles as the Knicks look to maintain offensive production without one of their most efficient shooters.
Knicks Continue Winning Despite Ongoing Concerns
Despite sitting third in the Eastern Conference with a 46-25 record, the Knicks have shown signs of inconsistency.
New York has struggled to put teams away comfortably, needing to rally from a 21-point deficit against the Golden State Warriors and narrowly escaping with a 93-92 win over the Brooklyn Nets.
Those trends have raised concerns about the team’s early-game approach, particularly against opponents with losing records.
Mitchell Robinson Calls for Better Starts
Following Friday’s win over Brooklyn, Mitchell Robinson called on the team to improve its preparation and intensity.
“[The Nets] brought the fight to us,” Robinson said, via New York Daily News. “Our approach has to be better.”
Robinson pointed to a recurring issue, with the Knicks posting a -17.9 net rating in first quarters over their last 10 games while allowing 120.7 points per 100 possessions.
“We can’t just look at their record and say it’s an easy one,” Robinson added. “We’ve just gotta be better altogether.”
Knicks Face Crucial Stretch Ahead
New York will look to regroup against Washington before entering a more challenging stretch of the schedule, including road games against the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder and the Houston Rockets.
With the playoffs approaching, maintaining consistency will be critical.
Landry Shamet’s Next Opportunity to Return
Shamet’s next chance to return will come Tuesday against the New Orleans Pelicans.
For now, the Knicks will rely on their depth as they continue to navigate injuries and prepare for the postseason.
Alder Almo is a sports journalist covering the NBA for Heavy.com. He has more than 20 years of experience in local and international media, including broadcast, print and digital. He previously covered the Knicks for Empire Sports Media and the NBA for Off the Glass. Alder is from the Philippines and is now based in Jersey City, New Jersey. More about Alder Almo
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