Who is Pacome Dadiet, the Knicks' 18-year-old French draft pick?

Who is Pacome Dadiet, the Knicks' 18-year-old French draft pick?

The New York Knicks threw the NBA world a curveball in the NBA Draft.

The Knicks entered the draft with the 24th and 25th picks. They traded the 24th pick for the 26th pick, then the 26th pick for multiple future second-rounders in what appeared to be a cost-cutting move that could help them re-sign Isaiah Hartenstein.

The Knicks then used their 25th pick to select Pacome Dadiet, an 18-year-old French guard who played professionally in Germany last season.

The pick seemingly came out of nowhere — most mocks hadn't projected the Knicks to take Dadiet, though he did work out with the Knicks.

So, who is the Knicks' new first-round pick?

Dadiet's background

Dadiet grew up in France and made his pro debut at 16 in LNB Pro A.

He then transferred to Germany to play for Ratiopharm Ulm. His minutes grew over two seasons and he became a regular part of their rotation in 2023-24, averaging 6.5 points and 1.6 rebounds in about 15 minutes per game.

Dadiet's scouting report

The Ringer's Kevin O'Connor ranked Dadiet as the 28th best prospect in the draft while ESPN's Jonathan Givony ranked him 30th.

According to scouting reports, Dadiet is extremely raw, with good strength and natural scoring skills.

O'Connor writes of Dadiet: "Skilled shooter off the dribble. He’s comfortable pulling up from midrange, whether it’s stopping on a dime or stepping back. If he extends his range, he could become a major scoring machine ... Decisive attacker off the dribble with a good first step and the burst to turn the corner. He’s capable of finishing comfortably using either hand with touch layups or finishing with power when he has room to take off."

Givony complimented Dadiet's toughness and efficiency while playing in a pro league against bigger, older players.

However, both O'Connor and Givony note that because Dadiet is extremely raw, he needs to refine his game, particularly as a ball-handler and passer. Givony called him an "average" defender.

There has been some thought that the Knicks could "draft-and-stash" Dadiet to let him continue developing in Europe while they saved money on their cap sheet this year. If Dadiet does come to the NBA next season, he figures to face an uphill battle trying to make Tom Thibodeau's rotation.

What did Dadiet say on draft night?

Dadiet told reporters after being selected by the Knicks that he intends to come to the NBA this season, not stay in Europe.

Dadiet also said he hopes to bring energy to the team.

"I think I'm really versatile, but I can also bring what a rookie needs to bring in a team," Dadiet said. "Bring some energy, being able to grab a rebound and push the ball, but also knock down shots."

Dadiet told reporters that he took "risks" in leaving France at 17 to play in Germany. However, he said he's proud of the work he put into become a first-round pick.

"I believed in myself. I worked a lot. I stayed confident."