But the Knicks responded to Diawara’s surge with a high-profile addition: former Spurs lottery pick Jeremy Sochan, who was unexpectedly released after the trade deadline. Sochan brings veteran NBA pedigree and more experience, potentially narrowing Diawara’s role as the rotation tightens with fully healthy wings. The team’s depth also includes Jose Alvarado, who could impact minutes for both Sochan and Diawara, depending on how many minutes Sochan earns.
Even with Diawara’s early success, the Knicks face a crowded wing rotation when Anunoby returns from toe surgery and teams with Mikal Bridges and Josh Hart logged more than 30 minutes per game. Sochan’s versatility, including point-forward experience, could shift minutes away from Diawara and toward more established options.
Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau indicated he intends to give Sochan an opportunity to prove himself, while also evaluating Diawara’s fit for the long playoff push. The evolving dynamic between Sochan, Diawara, and the rest of the wing group will determine who emerges as a reliable rotation piece down the stretch.
Diawara’s latest stretch has drawn attention to his development as a potential long-term rotation player, but Sochan’s arrival underscores the challenge of carving out minutes on a deep, healthy Knicks squad. The team’s approach will hinge on performance in practices and the regular-season games ahead, especially as playoff positioning becomes a clearer objective.
