Knicks first-round pick named as most likely trade candidate to clear space for Malcolm Brogdon

Knicks first-round pick named as most likely trade candidate to clear space for Malcolm Brogdon originally appeared on The Sporting News

The New York Knicks were aggressive this offseason when it came to adding quality depth to their bench.

They added a former Sixth Man of the Year winner in Jordan Clarkson, a big man who can play both power forward and center in Guerschon Yabusele, and a veteran point guard in Malcolm Brogdon. They also brought back Landry Shamet for depth at the wing.

Unfortunately for the Knicks, though, they're going to have to part ways with one of their younger players to clear the space for Shamet and Brogdon. One of their second-year players, Pacome Dadiet, Tyler Kolek, and Ariel Hukporti, is going to be the odd man out.

Pacome Dadiet Named as Most Likely Trade Candidate for Knicks

According to James Edwards of The Athletic, Dadiet is the name he's heard most around league circles as the most likely trade candidate.

"Talking to people in the league as of late, the name I keep hearing most is 20-year-old Pacôme Dadiet. I’ve gathered that the Knicks are entering camp with the idea of keeping Brogdon and Shamet, both of whom are on non-guaranteed deals, for the regular-season roster," wrote Edwards.

"To keep both, the Knicks would have to make a trade. Given Dadiet’s age, size (6-8, 210) and projected profile if his development shakes out, he has more value around the league than the likes of youngsters Tyler Kolek or Ariel Hukporti, according to people I’ve spoken with."

While other teams around the league may have more interest in Dadiet than Kolek or Hukporti, that doesn't necessarily mean the Knicks will move him.

While Dadiet didn't get much playing time throughout the 2024-25 season, his size and length are something you can't teach. Parting ways with a player who could be a long-term replacement for OG Anunoby or Mikal Bridges would be a mistake.

While the return may not be as bountiful, trading Kolek makes the most sense for the Knicks, who are loaded with guard depth. Having Jalen Brunson, Deuce McBride, Clarkson, and Brogdon makes the second-year man out of Marquette the most expendable, and the better option to trade if you're New York.