The Westchester Knicks selected forward Matt Ryan and guard Landry Shamet as the first and second overall picks in the 2024-25 NBA G League Draft this week. These selections strengthen the Knicks’ G League affiliate roster and hint at potential opportunities for these players to contribute to the New York Knicks‘ NBA lineup eventually. After the New York Knicks news broke, Marc Stein recently reported that Knicks fans should expect to see both of these players on the New York Knicks depth chart at some point this season.
NBA Insider Reports Knicks G League Picks Could Get Call-Up
New York Knicks News
Matt Ryan was selected first overall in the G League draft. The 27-year-old forward appeared in 28 games for the New Orleans Pelicans last season, averaging 5.4 points and 1.4 rebounds on 45 percent three-point shooting. Known for his three-point shooting, his ability to score in volume, coupled with consistent three-point accuracy, suggests he could be a valuable asset if the New York Knicks look for additional shooting depth.
Matt Ryan and Landry Shamet go No. 1 and No. 2 overall to the @wcknicks in the 2024 NBA G League Draft!
Full Draft Board: https://t.co/kdP2wZILQY pic.twitter.com/xdzodYC7jB
— NBA G League (@nbagleague) October 26, 2024
Drafted second overall, Landry Shamet joins the Westchester Knicks after a stint with the Washington Wizards last season. Shamet averaged 7.1 points, 1.3 rebounds, and 1.2 assists across 46 games last season, showcasing his steady shooting and defensive skills. Shamet has experience with several NBA teams, including the 76ers, Clippers, Nets, and Suns, bringing a valuable combination of playoff experience and leadership.
Shamet’s time in Westchester will also allow him to fully recover from a shoulder injury sustained during the preseason, with the Knicks hopeful he can avoid surgery and remain available for a call-up when ready.
New York Knicks Depth Chart
The New York Knicks are waiving Landry Shamet, sources tell me and @BobbyMarks42. Shamet had a strong preseason, averaging 10.8 points per game. Knicks will likely maintain roster at 12 standard players, and look to bring Shamet back once he recovers from dislocated shoulder. pic.twitter.com/nDCmuXs1G3
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) October 19, 2024
The Westchester Knicks’ decision to select Ryan and Shamet with the first two picks in the G League Draft may have been a strategic move to bolster the New York Knicks depth chart. With both players’ shooting capabilities, they could serve as solid contributors for the Knicks should the team face injury issues. Recent reports from NBA insider Marc Stein indicate that the NBA franchise is keeping a close watch on these two new additions for a potential call-up.
With a focus on spacing and shooting, the Westchester Knicks’ additions of Ryan and Shamet appear to align with the New York Knicks’ overarching goals. Both players possess the shooting range and positional versatility highly valued in today’s NBA, particularly with Knicks Coach Tom Thibodeau, who prioritizes shooting and defensive versatility.
Shamet and Ryan’s Chances of Making Depth Chart
The Knicks’ flexibility with their roster adds another layer to these draft picks. With 12 players currently on standard NBA contracts, the Knicks have a buffer period of up to 28 days in the season to finalize a 14-man roster. This flexibility could give Ryan and Shamet time to develop and demonstrate their abilities before the Knicks consider making a roster adjustment.
If the Knicks decide to bring either player up, they could convert a two-way contract. Additionally, with $3.6 million in salary cap room below the NBA’s second apron, the Knicks are financially able to convert contracts or make signings without surpassing the league’s hard cap. Time will tell if either Ryan or Shamet gets called up to the NBA, but Stein’s report indicates that it may happen sooner rather than later.
