Knicks receive positive update on former first-round pick’s Summer League injury

The New York Knicks began Summer League play in Las Vegas on Friday, with former first-round pick Pacome Dadiet looking to make an impression on the organization. 

The 19-year-old scored a team-high 17 points in Friday’s loss to the Detroit Pistons but exited Sunday’s matchup early due to a left big toe injury. The No. 25 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, Dadiet sustained the toe injury in the third quarter of Sunday’s 94-81 Summer League loss to the Boston Celtics and did not return. He finished the game with seven points (3-11 FG, 1-5 3Pt), six rebounds and one assist in 19 minutes. 

On the bright side, the 6-foot-8 forward’s injury isn’t expected to be a lingering concern, according to Stefan Bondy of the New York Post. 

“Update on Dadiet’s injury from yesterday — I heard it’s his big toe and nothing major,” Bondy wrote. “No structural damage.” 

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Dadiet’s next opportunity to feature in the Summer League will come in Tuesday’s matchup against the Nets. However, it wouldn’t be surprising if New York exercises caution and holds him out. 

The Frenchman has the potential to be a versatile two-way player for the Knicks, though he still has room to improve his shooting range and ball-handling skills. 

Dadiet saw limited playing time in his rookie season, averaging 1.7 points in 6.2 minutes per game over 18 regular-season appearances. However, he also spent time with the club’s G League affiliate, the Westchester Knicks, where he averaged 13.9 points, 5.5 rebounds and 2.3 assists while shooting 40.0 percent from the field and 29.6 percent from three-point range across 31.8 minutes per contest.

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