Buzz Growing Around Knicks 2nd-Year Guard Tyler Kolek at Summer League

Tyler Kolek was merely a bit player as a rookie, often getting into games with the outcome already in hand.

That doesn’t necessarily mean, of course, that Kolek is destined to stay in that role forever.

The Summer League is a pivotal showcase for the New York Knicks second-year guard, and in recent games, he has managed to make the most of his increased exposure. After a slow start to summer, Kolek has picked up his play, turning in a 25-point performance against the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday in Las Vegas.

Kolek poured in 23 of his points before halftime, adding only two more after the break. He also contributed four assists and four steals, helping the Knicks to their first win.

Kolek summed up his breakout performance succinctly, telling the New York Post’s Stefan Bondy, “When I’m playing at my best, I got that swagger, I got that s— to me.”

Fans React to Tyler Kolek’s Strong Play

Fans took to social media to express their excitement over Kolek’s play.

“Knicks have something in this kid. … Just needs opportunity to play,” one fan said on X (formerly Twitter).

Another commented: “That’s a competitor who shows up when the lights are brightest. 23 points by halftime isn’t just shooting — it’s about having the confidence to keep pulling the trigger when the moment demands it.”

Knicks forward Mikal Bridges also chimed in, saying on Instagram: “Lil demon on the loose.”

The 6-foot-3 Kolek did much of his damage from the perimeter, hitting five 3-pointers on 7-of-17 shooting.

“Summer league or not, 20 before halftime is crazy,” another fan remarked. “If this is a preview of what’s to come, MSG is gonna LOVE this kid.”

Tyler Kolek Could Be in Line for Larger Role

Kolek played just 7.2 minutes per game as a rookie, averaging 2.0 points, 1.7 rebounds while shooting 32.9% across 41 regular-season contests.

That said, the 2024 round-rounder (34th overall) and former Big East Player of the Year should have more opportunities to prove himself in Year 2, especially with Mike Brown taking over as head coach. Brown is believed to be open to using his bench more than his predecessor, Tom Thibodeau, who rarely stretched his rotation.

The Knicks ranked last in the NBA in bench scoring last season, with the second unit averaging just 21.7 points. They’ve made some moves to address that area of need this offseason.

Kolek will look to play his way into the mix.

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