Pacme Dadiet is down to his last Knicks chance with $5 million decision looming

LAS VEGAS — Entering what feels like a make-or-break season for his Knicks career, Pacôme Dadiet understands the assignment.“[Become] more efficient at the 3-point line,” the 20-year-old forward said over the weekend, “and play harder.”Dadiet has been, to this point, a disappointment as New York’s lone first-round draft pick in the past four years.His career 3-point efficiency sits at a paltry 21.9 percent.
Scouts have noted his low motor, with Dadiet’s relaxed movements reminiscent of another former Knicks first-round pick: Kevin Knox.With that in mind, Dadiet’s goal to “play harder” is noteworthy.It would help his defense and rebounding, which also have underwhelmed.
As one NBA general manager jokingly texted last year during Las Vegas Summer League: “I wouldn’t trade a croissant for Pacôme Dadiet.”Even with all the signs of a bust, the Frenchman remains on the Knicks roster — guaranteed at roughly $3 million — because of the tantalizing potential.He has the ideal build and skill set for a forward, standing at 6-foot-9 with all the proper mechanics on his jumper.He’s also young enough to believe a giant leap still is possible.It’s why people inside the Knicks are predicting a breakout for Dadiet, who nonetheless struggled in the opening two games of this year’s summer league with 16.5 points per game on 36 percent shooting — and 15.4 percent from beyond the arc.It’s all significant now for Dadiet, whose contract includes a team option for next season with an Oct.
31 deadline.If the Knicks don’t pick up that $5.3 million option — and it would be impossible to justify picking that up right now — Dadiet will become a trade candidate and a free agent next summer.
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