Mohamed Diawara negatively impacted by Sochan’s arrival at the Knicks?
Jeremy Sochan joined the New York Knicks after his split with San Antonio. The 22-year-old player will have two months to convince Mike Brown and establish himself in the rotation, potentially at the expense of French rookie Mohamed Diawara.
Photo Credit : © Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images
After his departure from San Antonio Spurs, Jeremy Sochan is trying to restart his career with the New York Knicks. The 22-year-old forward, cut after the trade deadline, had attracted interest from ten franchises according to SNY.tv. At minimum salary, the Knicks took no risk in signing him.
Direct competition with Mohamed Diawara
Sochan’s arrival could come at Mohamed Diawara‘s expense. The 20-year-old French rookie has been a pleasant surprise this season, posting 41.3% shooting from 3-point range and averaging 20 minutes over the last five games. With his 7’4″ wingspan, Diawara has shown potential on both ends of the floor.
However, coach Mike Brown favors Sochan’s experience for the playoffs: « Jeremy knows the league. The league knows him. He knows the referees and vice versa. So he’ll get his chance. But ultimately, I’ll play those who are best for us. Right now, Jeremy is new. He hasn’t played for us yet. So I need to see pretty quickly what he can bring us before we start the playoffs. »
Mohamed Diawara has become one of the best shooters on the team. Shooting over 40% from 3! He’s already making an impact in his rookie year and is on the rise. If I’m Mike Brown, I’m not reducing Diawara’s minutes. I’m finding a way to play both Sochan & Diawara together. pic.twitter.com/uYYBxUjx5w
— The Knicks Recap (@TheKnicksRecap) February 19, 2026
A bet on versatility and experience
Sochan is banking on his versatility to establish himself in the Knicks’ roster. « I can do a bit of everything, so whatever the coach wants me to do, whatever will allow me to be on the court, I’ll do it and I’ll do it 100% », he stated. « I bring versatility, defense, energy, a bit of toughness, so I’m looking forward to it. »
The Knicks’ choice is also explained by the opportunity to learn alongside established players like OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges or Josh Hart. « One of the reasons I chose New York is that the roster is very deep, with a lot of very talented players », Sochan explains. « Being surrounded by players who have already established themselves and accomplished a lot in this league is an incredible opportunity for me. »
With a full frontcourt including Anunoby, Josh Hart, Karl-Anthony Towns and Mitchell Robinson, minutes will be limited. Sochan will have only two months to prove his worth before the playoffs, in a race against time where every opportunity will be crucial.
Stats 2025-2026 / NBA
PTS
2.7
#452
REB
1.2
#453
AST
0.5
#460
With a background in sports management, Nicolas Flamecourt covers NBA news with a particular passion for the North American league, which he has been following for several years. He also covers the NCAA, including news and scouting of future prospects, and regularly conducts interviews with French players as well as players competing in Europe.
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