The New York Knicks’ busy offseason may not be finished just yet. After signing veteran guards Malcolm Brogdon and Landry Shamet to Exhibit 9 contracts, the team faces a hard salary cap dilemma that could force them to part ways with one of their young prospects.
According to NBA insider Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, the Knicks have already begun exploring the trade market for Pacôme Dadiet, their 2024 first-round pick.
“The focus for that trade has been on former first-round pick Pacome Dadiet ever since the Knicks signed the two veterans to Exhibit 9 contracts. Sources tell The Stein Line that Knicks, in fact, have indeed already called several teams to gauge interest in Dadiet,” Fischer reported.
The Knicks are hard-capped at the second apron, leaving them with little flexibility. Keeping both Brogdon and Shamet would push them over the limit unless they move salary elsewhere. Dadiet, who is owed roughly $2.8 million this season, represents the most logical trade chip:
- He has more value than other back-end roster players due to his age (20) and upside.
- His contract is just large enough to create the breathing room New York needs.
- He doesn’t have a clear path to minutes on a veteran-heavy roster chasing a championship.
The French forward showed flashes in the G League last season, averaging nearly 15 points per game for Westchester, but struggled to carve out a role in Tom Thibodeau’s rotation. In 18 NBA appearances, he averaged just 1.7 points and 1.0 rebounds in limited minutes.
Still, rival executives view him as an intriguing developmental piece. At 6’8” with length and shooting potential, Dadiet could appeal to rebuilding teams willing to take a flyer on a former first-rounder.
The Knicks’ front office has made it clear they are prioritizing veteran depth around Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby, and Karl-Anthony Towns. Brogdon, the 2023 Sixth Man of the Year, and Shamet, a proven floor-spacer, both fit the mold of experienced contributors who can help immediately.
Head coach Mike Brown has praised the veterans’ impact in camp, hinting that both are likely to make the final roster. That makes a Dadiet trade increasingly probable.
With the regular season roster deadline looming, New York will need to act quickly. If they can’t find a trade partner for Dadiet, they may be forced to choose between Brogdon and Shamet.
