The Knicks have shown their confidence in Mohamed Diawara by signing him to a contract extension before he could hit the free-agent market.
Diawara, picked 51st in the 2025 draft, had an impressive rookie season, appearing in 69 games and starting seven. The front office clearly sees a lot of potential in the 6-foot-9 player.
According to Stephen Bondy, Diawara’s new multi-year deal exceeds $10 million, a significant increase from the $1.27 million he earned last season.
Next up for him? The Summer League in Las Vegas, kicking off next Friday.
He’s a key player on a roster that also features second-round pick Tyler Nickell, 47th overall from Vanderbilt, alongside 2024 first-round pick Pacôme Dadier.
The term “Summer League rookie” could definitely apply here, although being a player who doesn’t quite belong in that category is also a good sign.
That’s what the Knicks hope for Diawara.
After being left out of coach Mike Brown’s playoff rotation, this is an important opportunity for him to showcase his skills.
It’s likely he’ll catch some eyes.
In his first season, Diawara averaged 3.6 points and 1.4 rebounds, with a 36.9 percent shooting rate from beyond the arc, all in just over nine minutes per game. His offensive ability surprised the team.
Initially, he was thought to be more of a defensive player thanks to his impressive wingspan of 7 feet 4 inches and elite athleticism.
Diawara made a notable impact in a game against the Pelicans, scoring 18 points and hitting four 3-pointers, leading to his increased role in the regular season.
“I’m not scared of Mo,” Brown had said back then. “He’s the most confident young man I’ve ever met. He has a chance to get really good.”
As for the Knicks’ summer league roster, there are other players to keep an eye on.
Dadier Could Be a Trade Option
Standing at 6 feet 9 inches, Dadier’s position might be more precarious now that Diawara is stepping up.
He’s played in just 47 games over the last two years. So, he has the chance to make a name for himself in the upcoming weeks.
The better he shines, the better it’ll bode for the team.
Dadier could serve as a trade asset as the Knicks aim to avoid hitting the second apron, with about $6.5 million to spare.
Next season, he’ll be owed $2.98 million. He won’t turn 21 until late July, but at this price, other franchises might find him appealing.
With Mitchell Robinson heading to the Celtics in free agency, moving Dadier could benefit the team in acquiring another crucial piece—with Andre Drummond possibly backing Karl-Anthony Towns.
Familiar Faces
Former St. John’s guard Oziyah Sellers has struck a Summer League deal with the Knicks. If he performs well in Las Vegas, he might earn a camp invite from the Knicks or another team.
Sellers, standing 6-foot-5, helped lead St. John’s to back-to-back Big East titles and a Sweet 16 appearance for the first time since 1999.
A solid 3-point shooter, he made 37.8 percent of his attempts from deep and demonstrated improved defensive skills during his collegiate career at Queen’s.
Last winter at St. John’s, he averaged 10.3 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.6 assists each game.
Additional Notes
The Knicks currently hold only one draft pick, although second-round pick Jack Cale from Germany is not on the roster.
Nickell, standing 6-foot-8, is recognized for his shooting ability, averaging 13.5 points and hitting 40 percent from 3-point range during his time at Vanderbilt.
With his size, there’s certainly a place for shooters like him.
An interesting prospect to consider is former Michigan State guard Jaden Akins.
Last season, he played for the Pistons’ G League team, the Motor City Crew, averaging 14.7 points and 4.8 assists. He was even selected as a G League All-Star.
After going undrafted in 2025, he signed an Exhibition 10 contract with the Pistons.
