The New York Knicks made a significant addition during the second round of the draft by selecting Tyler Kolek, a former Marquette standout. Initial reactions suggested that the Knicks had secured a valuable asset, and since then, Kolek has lived up to the expectations. He has excelled during the summer league and continued to impress during training camp, showcasing his ability to adapt to the fast pace of the NBA. Coach Tom Thibodeau and his teammates have praised Kolek’s dedication, professionalism, and potential as he prepares for the upcoming season.
Jalen Brunson, a key player for the Knicks, has been particularly supportive of Kolek. He noted Kolek’s commitment to improving his game and acknowledged that hard work leads to tangible results. Brunson’s encouragement is crucial for Kolek, who has shown promise by averaging 13 points, three assists, and two steals in his first two preseason games. His performance mirrors that of his summer league outings, where he posted impressive stats with a strong assist-to-turnover ratio, indicating his playmaking ability.
Kolek, who was recognized as the Big East Player of the Year in 2022-23, brings a wealth of experience from his time at Marquette. Averaging 15.3 points and 7.7 assists last year, he has maintained his confidence despite joining a team filled with established veterans. He attributes his smooth transition to the NBA to his work ethic and the confidence he has developed throughout his career. Kolek’s perspective reflects a grounded approach, emphasizing that, regardless of the level, basketball remains the same.
As he begins his professional journey, Kolek is realistic about his role on the team, understanding that he may not immediately be part of Thibodeau’s regular rotation. He acknowledges the presence of seasoned players like Brunson and others ahead of him, recognizing that he must earn his spot on the roster. He compares his current situation to previous transitions in his career, highlighting his commitment to rebuilding and establishing a strong foundation for his future in the NBA.
Kolek is already showing traits of a promising player as he learns the ropes of the league. He has taken a page from Brunson’s playbook, who also faced challenges entering the NBA as a second-round pick. Despite having a solid debut against the Wizards, where he scored 15 points and dished out five assists, Kolek remains focused on self-improvement. He has candidly addressed his struggles with turnovers in practice and is determined to find the right balance between scoring and playmaking, demonstrating a mature understanding of his development process.
