Knicks to Give Newly Signed Sochan Chance Over Rookie Diawara

Coach Brown says he'll play Sochan, a former top-10 pick, despite Diawara's solid season so far

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The New York Knicks have signed veteran forward Jeremy Sochan, who was recently released by the San Antonio Spurs. Head coach Mike Brown says he plans to give Sochan an opportunity to play, even if it comes at the expense of rookie Mohamed Diawara's recent playing time. Brown wants to evaluate Sochan's fit on the team as they make a playoff push.

Why it matters

The Knicks are looking to solidify their rotation and find the right lineup combinations heading into the playoffs. Sochan's defensive versatility and playmaking ability could be valuable, but it may come at the cost of Diawara's development as a promising young player who has earned his minutes through strong play.

The details

Sochan, a 2022 top-10 draft pick, was recently released by the Spurs and signed by the Knicks. Coach Brown says he wants to give Sochan an opportunity to show what he can do, even if it means reducing Diawara's playing time. Diawara, a second-round pick, has been a pleasant surprise this season and has earned a spot in the rotation with his solid play and 3-point shooting. However, Brown feels Sochan's defensive profile and versatility could be valuable as the Knicks try to stabilize their defense for the playoffs.

  • The Knicks signed Sochan last week after he was released by the Spurs.
  • The Knicks returned to practice on Wednesday following the All-Star break.

The players

Mike Brown

The head coach of the New York Knicks, who is looking to integrate newly signed veteran Jeremy Sochan into the rotation.

Jeremy Sochan

A 6'8" forward who was a top-10 draft pick in 2022 by the San Antonio Spurs, but was recently released and signed by the Knicks.

Mohamed Diawara

A rookie second-round pick of the Knicks who has earned a spot in the rotation through solid play and 3-point shooting.

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What they’re saying

“'Mo's had a good season so far. As a young guy... and, as you guys know, I'll play young guys. I have played young guys in front of vets before. But I'm going to give Jeremy an opportunity,'”

— Mike Brown, Head Coach, New York Knicks (New York Times)

“'(I bring) energy. The kind of mold that the coach wants, has been doing and what the Knicks have been doing. I think I can really excel in. Versatility. Defense. Energy. I bring a little bit of nasty. I can't wait.'”

— Jeremy Sochan (New York Times)

What’s next

The Knicks will evaluate Sochan's fit and production over the final 27 games of the regular season to determine if he can help the team in the playoffs.

The takeaway

The Knicks are prioritizing finding the right rotation and lineup combinations for the playoffs, even if it means reducing playing time for a promising young player like Diawara who has earned his minutes. Sochan's defensive versatility and energy could be valuable, but the coaching staff will need to carefully manage the situation to ensure Diawara's development isn't stunted.