The New York Knicks have witnessed a surge of talent emerging during the 2025-26 season, with rookie Mohamed Diawara recently making headlines for his impressive performance. On Monday night, Diawara stepped into a starting role in the absence of Josh Hart, scoring 18 points, grabbing two steals, and shooting an impressive 7-for-9 from the field, including a perfect 4-for-4 from three-point range, helping the Knicks secure a hard-fought 130-125 victory over the Pelicans.
This standout display not only highlights Diawara’s potential as a future two-way contributor in the league but also serves as a testament to the Knicks’ decision to part ways with former head coach Tom Thibodeau during the offseason. Initially, the firing of Thibodeau raised eyebrows, especially since he had just led the team to their first Eastern Conference Finals appearance in two decades. However, as the season unfolds under the leadership of new head coach Mike Brown, the decision seems increasingly justified.
During Thibodeau’s tenure, he was known for heavily relying on his starting lineup, often restricting opportunities for emerging players. According to Knicks Film School analyst Jonathan Macri, Thibodeau seemed “petrified of doing anything that would increase his team’s chances of losing,” which stifled the development of younger talents.
In contrast, Coach Brown has embraced a different philosophy. He is unafraid to experiment with lineups and player rotations, maximizing the potential of the entire roster. This new approach has allowed not only Diawara but also teammates like Kevin McCullar Jr. and Tyler Kolek to flourish, contributing significantly to the Knicks’ success on the court. As a result, the team’s bench has become more productive, and star players such as Jalen Brunson are enjoying needed rest, which is vital for maintaining performance over the course of the season.
The ongoing emergence of previously overlooked players is a key differentiator between the two coaching styles, suggesting that the Knicks are on the right path under Brown’s leadership. With each breakout performance, the optimism grows for what this new chapter can bring for the franchise and its fans.