In a significant roster move, the New York Knicks have decided to waive TJ Warren, Landry Shamet, and Chuma Okeke, cutting ties with three players who had been competing for a spot on the final roster. The decision comes as the Knicks finalize their lineup ahead of the upcoming NBA season, aiming to build a cohesive and competitive squad. The release of these players signals the direction the team is taking as it focuses on developing its core and making room for emerging talent.
TJ Warren, a veteran small forward, joined the Knicks hoping to carve out a role in the team’s rotation. After stints with the Indiana Pacers, Phoenix Suns, and Brooklyn Nets, Warren brought experience and scoring potential to the Knicks. Known for his standout performance in the NBA Bubble in 2020, where he averaged over 26 points per game, Warren has struggled with injuries in recent years, limiting his opportunities to regain that form. His tenure with the Knicks, however, was short-lived. Despite flashes of his scoring ability during preseason play, the Knicks ultimately opted to prioritize younger players with more potential for long-term development.
Landry Shamet, another player with valuable NBA experience, was also waived in the same round of cuts. Shamet has built a reputation as a sharpshooter, with career averages of around 38% from three-point range. His ability to stretch the floor made him an intriguing addition to the Knicks’ training camp roster. Shamet had previously played for several NBA teams, including the Philadelphia 76ers, Los Angeles Clippers, and Phoenix Suns, where he filled the role of a reliable shooter off the bench. Despite this skill set, the Knicks chose to move forward without him, possibly due to a crowded backcourt that features the likes of Jalen Brunson, Immanuel Quickley, and Quentin Grimes.
Chuma Okeke, a versatile forward, was another casualty of the Knicks’ roster decisions. Okeke, known for his defensive prowess and ability to contribute across multiple positions, was originally drafted by the Orlando Magic in 2019. Though he showed potential as a 3-and-D player during his time in Orlando, injuries and inconsistent offensive production have been hurdles in his NBA journey. Okeke’s release from the Knicks suggests that the team is looking for more consistency in its rotational players, as they continue to build a squad capable of competing in the competitive Eastern Conference.
For the Knicks, these roster cuts underline a commitment to developing their existing core while creating opportunities for younger players. The team has placed significant emphasis on Jalen Brunson’s leadership, the continued development of RJ Barrett, and the potential of emerging stars like Immanuel Quickley and Quentin Grimes. The decisions also suggest that the Knicks are content with their depth and balance heading into the season, choosing to solidify their rotation rather than holding onto veterans who might struggle for playing time.
The departure of Warren, Shamet, and Okeke may open the door for other fringe players and young prospects on the Knicks’ roster. The team could explore the use of two-way contracts or look for options in the G League to maintain flexibility throughout the season. As the Knicks strive to build upon their playoff appearance last year, the focus appears to be on a balanced approach that blends the talents of their established players with the development of their younger contributors.
While the waiving of these players might not have a major impact on the Knicks’ season, it is a reminder of the tough decisions teams must make when finalizing their rosters. For Warren, Shamet, and Okeke, the hope will be to catch on with other NBA teams or showcase their skills overseas, keeping their professional careers alive. As for the Knicks, their focus now shifts to the start of the season, where they aim to build upon last season’s progress and make a deeper run in the playoffs.
With the roster set and preseason evaluations complete, the Knicks are ready to face the challenges of the 2024-25 NBA season. As they look to solidify their standing among the top teams in the East, their focus on cohesion and youth development will be central to their strategy. The decision to part ways with Warren, Shamet, and Okeke marks the beginning of this journey, as the Knicks aim to make their mark in a competitive conference.