The New York Knicks are planning to sign second-round pick Mohamed Diawara to a standard NBA contract that would fill the team’s 14th roster spot entering training camp, according to SNY’s Ian Begley.
Diawara, 20, was selected No. 51 in the 2025 draft and appeared for New York’s Summer League team after spending last season with Cholet Basket in France’s top division.
Roster and cap considerations
The Knicks have already reached non-guaranteed agreements with Malcolm Brogdon, Landry Shamet and Garrison Mathews. Because the club is operating just below the NBA’s second tax apron, only one of those veterans can remain on the regular-season roster, where that player would occupy the 13th standard spot.
Team officials are weighing a cost-cutting trade to keep two of the three veterans, but Begley said he does not expect a deal before camp. He also noted that guard Miles McBride—owed $4.33 million in 2025-26 and $3.96 million in 2026-27—is unlikely to be moved, as the organization has consistently valued the 25-year-old.
Other offseason notes
New York looked at adding free-agent center Thomas Bryant, per Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, but ultimately chose to focus on backcourt and wing depth. Begley’s sources said Bryant impressed during recent open gym sessions at the team’s practice facility.
Training camp opens later this month, when the Knicks are expected to finalize decisions on their last two roster spots.
Source: Hoops Rumors
