Knicks Sign Moussa Cisse to Two-Year Offer Sheet; Mavericks Have 48 Hours to Match

Restricted free agent Moussa Cisse has agreed to a two-year contract with the New York Knicks, providing frontcourt depth after averaging 1.2 blocks per game.

Restricted free agent Moussa Cisse has agreed to a two-year contract offer sheet with the New York Knicks, sources informed ESPN’s Shams Charania on Saturday. The Dallas Mavericks now face a 48-hour deadline to match the terms of the deal to retain the 6-foot-11 center. This move follows the Mavericks extending a qualifying offer to the big man earlier this offseason, which established his restricted status. The Moussa Cisse Knicks agreement includes a salary that is half-guaranteed during the first season of the term.

Contract Structure and Eligibility

Under the terms of the new agreement, the 2027-28 season remains entirely non-guaranteed. Cisse, who will turn 24 years old this September, entered the league as an undrafted free agent out of the University of Memphis last summer. Before the start of the previous season, he signed a two-way deal with Dallas. The reigning NBA champions in New York are looking to integrate his size into their rotation following the departure of center Mitchell Robinson in free agency.

Statistical Impact and Performance

During his time on the court last year, Cisse averaged 4.5 points and 5.7 rebounds per contest. He provided defensive utility by recording 1.2 blocks in just under 14 minutes of play per game. His presence is intended to bolster the frontcourt depth for the Knicks' roster.

Roster Transition and Timeline

The transition from a two-way player to a primary roster target follows a year of development within the Dallas system. If the Mavericks decline to match the offer within the two-day window, the center will officially join the New York frontcourt. The Knicks are currently addressing gaps in their interior defense after losing their primary rim protector earlier in the offseason.