Knicks get discount to keep key championship role player in New York

Shamet originally joined the Knicks on a non-guaranteed Exhibit 9 contract in 2024 and re-signed on the same deal last September, making the four-year pact a significant upgrade in security. It's also well-warranted after the 2018 first-round pick (No. 26 overall) averaged 16.3 minutes off the bench for New York as it won its first NBA championship in 53 years.

Shamet, who has also played with the Philadelphia 76ers, Los Angeles Clippers, Brooklyn Nets, Phoenix Suns and Washington Wizards, was particularly impactful in the Knicks' conference semifinals and conference finals sweeps, shooting 66.7 percent, including 75 percent on three three-point attempts per game.

Rather than capitalize on a brilliant spring by going to the highest bidder, Shamet's decision to stay in New York further keeps the franchise's championship nucleus together. Earlier this month, the Knicks re-signed forward Mohamed Diawara to a multiyear contract, while guard Jose Alvarado fetched $14M over three years from the front office after declining a $4.5M 2026-27 player option.

That retention is key with backup center Mitchell Robinson likely headed elsewhere in free agency, giving the Knicks less production to replace. With a likely robust market, Shamet could have made New York's offseason more challenging. Instead, he gave it a break.