Knicks rookie Tyler Kolek is comfortable playing high-level basketball. Just ask him

LAS VEGAS — Depending on the vantage point, Tyler Kolek’s vibe might be labeled confidence or swagger or arrogance.

He clearly believes in himself. He’s not afraid to speak on it, either.

“I wouldn’t say I’m surprised [how well I’m playing],” Kolek said. “All the work that I’ve put in has gotten me to this point. I’ve been in a lot of games in college. I’m not some first-year rookie that’s just come in playing 10, 12, 15 games in college, maybe only averaged 20 minutes a game. I’ve played a lot of games and I’m really comfortable on the basketball court.”

His comfort level is the first thing you notice about Kolek after a couple of interviews. The second thing is how quickly and coherently he explains the game.