When the New York Knicks added Malcolm Brogdon and Landry Shamet to the roster on Exhibit 9 deals, it was clear a trade could be coming. The Knicks must trade at least one player if they decide to keep both veteran additions.
According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, via an Oct. 5 edition of "The Stein Line" newsletter, Pacome Dadiet has been the front office's focus in recent days.
"Sources tell The Stein Line that Knicks, in fact, have indeed already called several teams to gauge interest in Dadiet," Fischer reported. "Then the Knicks started Dadiet against the Sixers on Thursday in the first of the teams' two games in Abu Dhabi, which certainly got the attention of some rival front offices. When I was working the phones Friday, numerous teams were convinced New York had Dadiet in the starting lineup purely to showcase him to potential trade partners."
Dadiet is seen as a high-potential prospect. His 6-foot-8 frame and impressive length could make him a solid defender at the NBA level in the future. Furthermore, once he learns how to become more aggressive with his movements, he could develop into a multi-level scorer and facilitator.
Nevertheless, the Knicks aren't in a talent development phase. They are heading into the new season with the goal of contending for a championship. For that reason, Dadiet is a logical trade chip, assuming the franchise wishes to keep both Brogdon and Shamet for the upcoming campaign.
During a recent conversation with Stefan Bondy of the New York Post, Brogdon struck a confident figure. He noted how he expects to be part of New York's roster once the new season gets underway.
"I view myself as having a skillset and being a versatile enough player to crack any rotation in the league," Brogdon said. "So, I expect to do that here as well."
Brogdon's confidence is likely due to his experience and track record of being a reliable presence with the ball in his hands. However, his injury history should give him a moment for pause. There's no guarantee the Knicks will keep him around if they believe his body will break down under their run-and-gun style of play.
Nevertheless, there's no denying that they're a better team with him in the rotation. As such, Dadiet's time in New York may be coming to a close. Hopefully, he can land on a rebuilding roster where he will get the playing time and freedom to develop his game without pressure. Unfortunately, that is not an environment the Knicks can offer anytime soon.
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