Worth Keeping?
Dieng was drafted with the 11th overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft. At 6-foot-10 and 222 pounds, he’s averaged 4.3 points, 2.2 rebounds and 0.2 blocks per game, shooting 42.4% from the field (29.3% from 3). As one would expect, he’s done much better in the G League, averaging 17.0 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.8 assists, 0.9 blocks and 0.9 steals per game. He’s done this with solid efficiency for a perimeter-bound player, shooting 46.1% from the field (31.4% from 3).
The problem for Dieng is that he’s entering his fourth season in the league without much to show for it. That’s not what was expected when he was drafted in the lottery. However, his performance in the 2025-26 preseason may be evidence that he’s ready to turn the corner.
It’s only been two games. Nonetheless, Dieng has started both contests, averaging 14.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, 6.0 assists and 1.5 steals per game. His touch has been off, as he’s shooting 39.3% from the field but he’s been a sound decision-maker. Numbers aside, he really looked the part of an NBA player, with his body and his play.
To secure a contract extension, Dieng probably needs to get the ball in the net more consistently but can he do it?
