Overview
- Kolek has served as Jalen Brunson’s primary backup through New York’s 2-0 start, taking over after Malcolm Brogdon retired during training camp.
- He played 14 minutes with seven points and two assists in the opener at Cleveland, then 13 minutes with two points and four assists against Boston.
- Mike Brown praised his versatility, toughness and ability to organize the offense, while noting he is learning through early-game reps.
- The 24-year-old was the 34th pick in 2024 and appeared in 41 games last season, making this his first sustained rotation role.
- The Knicks may still consider a veteran addition behind Brunson, but Brown’s deep-rotation approach currently features Kolek running the second unit.