Knicks Eye Nickel for Final Roster Slot; Dadiet Option Looms and Nets Rookies Make Summer League Debuts
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Second-round pick Tyler Nickel is forcing his way into the New York Knicks’ roster conversation after a strong start to the Las Vegas Summer League.
Nickel’s Case for the 14th Spot
The 22-year-old Vanderbilt product is averaging 17.0 points and shooting 47.6% from three-point range this month. Described as a “perimeter ace,” Nickel has also displayed high energy on defense, raising internal discussions about awarding him the team’s 14th standard contract rather than a two-way deal. He could serve as insurance behind guards Landry Shamet and Miles McBride, both of whom have dealt with injuries over the past two seasons. If Nickel claims a regular roster place, New York is expected to use a two-way slot on a developmental center.
“I feel really comfortable shooting off the move,” Nickel said, noting he studies players such as Duncan Robinson, Max Strus and Sam Hauser.
Decision Time for Dadiet
Pacome Dadiet, the Knicks’ 2024 late first-round pick, remains on shaky ground entering his third season. Through two Summer League games, the forward is averaging 16.5 points but is converting only 36.0% of his shots overall and 15.4% from beyond the arc. New York must decide by Oct. 31 whether to exercise his $5.3 million team option for 2027/28. Based on current performance, that appears unlikely.
Nets Notes: Jefferson Shakes Off Rust, Johnson Impresses
Across town, Brooklyn’s No. 28 pick Joshua Jefferson is working back from the left ankle sprain that cut short his Iowa State season in March. In his Summer League debut, the rookie went 1-for-8 from the field, scoring on a lone layup. “It’s really been a long time since I’ve been in a playing setting,” Jefferson said, adding he expects improvement with more minutes.
Meanwhile, two-way forward Chaney Johnson delivered 20 points, 10 rebounds and five steals against Atlanta on Saturday, putting himself in the mix for minutes at power forward. The undrafted prospect said his goal is “to be the hardest-playing player out there.”
The Knicks and Nets continue Summer League action this week as roster decisions edge closer to training camp.
Source: Hoops Rumors
