Knicks seek three-point resurgence with Matt Ryan’s return
In the contemporary landscape of the NBA, the significance of sharpshooters cannot be overstated. Teams are increasingly recognizing the necessity for players who can effectively space the floor and enhance offensive fluidity. The New York Knicks embraced this philosophy on Tuesday, welcoming a familiar face back into their ranks. The organization announced the signing of Matt Ryan, a 6-foot-6 former three-point specialist from the Los Angeles Lakers, to an Exhibit 10 contract.
Ryan’s Recent Journey
At 28 years old and weighing 215 pounds, Ryan’s history with the Knicks is brief yet impactful. Last season, he participated in nine games, during which he achieved a personal best of 20 points in a standout performance against the Detroit Pistons. That game was notable not just for his scoring but also for his remarkable shooting accuracy—he hit 70% of his shots, including six three-pointers, while also contributing two rebounds and two assists.
Ryan, a product of Chattanooga, initially joined the Lakers in the 2022-23 season as an under-the-radar player. While he averaged just 3.9 points per game, he quickly became a fan favorite. His tenure with Los Angeles was marked by a memorable clutch three-pointer that helped the Lakers force overtime against the New Orleans Pelicans, alongside an impressive 54.5% shooting from beyond the arc in October. Despite these flashes of brilliance, his time with the Lakers ended in early December when he was waived, leading him to stints with the Minnesota Timberwolves and the New Orleans Pelicans before making his way back to New York.
Struggles and Opportunities
Despite boasting a career three-point shooting percentage of 40.2%, Ryan faced challenges in his shooting game during his last stretch with the Knicks. He managed to convert only 31.6% of his attempts from long range over the course of 19 games. Nevertheless, the Knicks remain optimistic about his potential. The organization views this second opportunity as a chance for Ryan to reclaim his sharpshooting form and contribute meaningfully to their offensive strategy.
As the Knicks aim to bolster their three-point shooting capabilities, Ryan’s return could prove pivotal. With an opportunity to rekindle his shooting prowess in New York, he embodies the hope for a revival in a franchise eager to enhance its scoring options from beyond the arc.
