The New York Knicks signed guard DaQuan Jeffries and forward Mamadi Diakite to rest-of-season contracts from their G League affiliate, the Westchester Knicks. Both played some garbage minutes in New York’s 145-101 win over the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday night. Jeffries logged seven minutes and had three assists. Diakite played four minutes, collecting one rebound and a steal.
Knicks Sign G League Pair to Rest of Season Contracts
Jeffries and Diakite initially signed for the Knicks coming off a solid G League season despite their 11-21 record. The two previously signed 10-day contracts with the Knicks, starring in over 10 games each. However, the Knicks signing both to a rest-of-season means they will train and play with the team until the end of the postseason, which is not only a huge salary bump but also means both could have a future at Madison Square Garden if things go right.
Jeffries, a Tulsa alum who went undrafted in the 2019 NBA Draft, originally signed with the Orlando Magic but bounced around the league on various two-way contracts. The 26-year-old reached one of his best seasons with the Westchester Knicks, scoring 22 points per game on 48/37/76 shooting splits. He averaged 6.1 rebounds per game and nearly three assists per game. He’s a solid shooter with a thick frame and a physical, bruising play style. Fred Katz of The Athletic reported that Jeffries’ contract runs through the season, with a team option coming into play at the end of the season.
Diakite, who went undrafted in the 2020 NBA Draft out of Virginia, has a career path similar to that of Jeffries. He also bounced around the league for the past few years. He also won a ring with both the Milwaukee Bucks and the Osceola Magic in the same year. Diakite has shown potential as a high-energy, explosive big with a huge frame and defensive potential. In 18 appearances in the G League, Diakite has averaged 14.4 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 1.7 assists on 54.5% shooting from the field. Katz reported his contract runs through 2025, but his pay is dependent on certain incentives being met.
The Last Word
It’s unlikely either will have a big impact outside of playing in huge blowouts. Their acquisitions were likely meant to provide depth due to New York’s recent injuries. Star power forward Julius Randle is still managing a dislocated shoulder, while OG Anuoby’s return is unknown.
The Knicks return to action in a Friday night matchup against the San Antonio Spurs.
