The New York Knicks celebrated an unexpected victory in the NBA Cup on Friday night, courtesy of Landry Shamet’s impressive performance. Coming off the bench, Shamet scored a career-high 36 points, playing a pivotal role in the Knicks’ win over the Miami Heat, despite missing two key starters. Head coach Mike Brown expressed his admiration for Shamet, noting that his outstanding display aligned with the exceptional talent he has observed over the years.
Following the recent coaching shake-up, Brown has spent significant time analyzing game footage from the previous season, a crucial step for any new coach. This diligence allowed him to recognize Shamet’s potential, which he traced back to the player’s collegiate days at Wichita State. Brown emphasized that Shamet’s past as a point guard adds depth to his current role as a sharpshooter in the NBA.
“His pace in the frontcourt, along with his gravity, is unbelievable. And then he’s a threat to shoot,” Brown remarked. He reflected on Shamet’s athleticism and versatility, stating, “He would dunk on you in a heartbeat.” He highlighted Shamet’s capacity to drive past defenders who close in on him during three-point attempts, seamlessly fitting into the Knicks’ read-and-react system.
Brown further elaborated on Shamet’s performance from the previous season, noting his impressive three-point shooting percentage of nearly 40%. Defensively, Brown emphasized Shamet’s agility and physicality, describing him as “longer and stronger than what you think.” His tenacity in chasing opponents and navigating pick-and-roll situations showcases his all-around impact on the floor.
As the season continues, Shamet is enjoying a resurgence from beyond the arc, starting the 2026 campaign by making 44.6% of his three-point attempts. His recent scoring explosion is a bright spot for the Knicks, who will look to lean on Shamet more as they navigate injuries to players like Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby.
While fans may not anticipate Shamet replicating Friday’s extraordinary performance consistently, there is a sense of optimism in Coach Brown’s willingness to utilize the player who is clearly in form. Shamet’s mix of shooting prowess and defensive hustle could prove crucial as the Knicks continue their early season journey.