Knicks Prioritize Signing Mohamed Diawara to New Contract

Versatile bench player emerges as key part of Knicks' rotation

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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The New York Knicks are making re-signing forward Mohamed Diawara a top priority this offseason after his strong emergence as a reliable bench contributor. Diawara, a 6-foot-9 forward known for his effective shooting and versatility, is set to become a restricted free agent following a one-year, $1.3 million deal.

Why it matters

Diawara has developed into one of the Knicks' most successful recent draft picks, providing valuable outside shooting and playmaking off the bench. Retaining him is crucial as the Knicks look to build around their young core and continue improving their roster.

The details

Since joining the Knicks, Diawara has steadily become a key part of the team's rotation, drawing praise from head coach Mike Brown for his all-around contributions. Diawara has highlighted his focus on improving his three-point shooting and defense as keys to maintaining a long NBA career.

  • Diawara is set to become a restricted free agent after completing a one-year, $1.3 million deal.

The players

Mohamed Diawara

A 6-foot-9 forward who has emerged as a reliable bench contributor for the New York Knicks, known for his effective shooting and versatility.

Mike Brown

The head coach of the New York Knicks, who has praised Diawara's all-around contributions and expressed confidence in giving him more playing time.

Mitchell Robinson

A Knicks player whose future has already been addressed, allowing the team to prioritize securing Diawara's contract this offseason.

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What they’re saying

“There's just a lot of little things when you see Mo play that make you go, 'Oh my gosh, wow,'”

— Mike Brown, Knicks Head Coach (theconwaybulletin.com)

“And all those things, when you add them up to a possible opportunity, it gives you more confidence as a coaching staff to throw him out there and say, 'OK, let's see what's going to happen.'”

— Mike Brown, Knicks Head Coach (theconwaybulletin.com)

“Three-point shooting and defense, those are things that are going to make me stay in the league for the longest.”

— Mohamed Diawara (theconwaybulletin.com)

The takeaway

The Knicks' focus on re-signing Mohamed Diawara highlights the team's commitment to building around their young, promising players. Diawara's steady development and valuable contributions off the bench have made him an integral part of the Knicks' rotation, and retaining him will be crucial as the team looks to continue improving and competing in the Eastern Conference.