Rokas is coming!

Rokas Jokubaitis, the 23-year-old Lithuanian guard drafted 34th overall by the New York Knicks in the 2021 NBA Draft, is set to play on the Knicks’ Summer League roster in Las Vegas. This will be a prime opportunity for Jokubaitis to showcase his skills and potential fit with the team.

After playing three games for the Knicks in the 2021 Summer League (and a total of 29 minutes), Jokubaitis has continued to develop his game with FC Barcelona in Spain. Despite having one year remaining on his contract with Barcelona, his participation in the upcoming Summer League became possible following Lithuania’s elimination from the Olympic qualifiers.

During his time with FC Barcelona last season, Jokubaitis averaged 7.4 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game in Liga ACB play. His experience in a competitive European league has likely prepared him for NBA-level competition.

Rokas won’t be the only Knicks’ point guard prospect we’ll be watching closely at Summer League.

Also on the Vegas roster will be Tyler Kolek, a promising playmaker who the Knicks drafted 34^th in this summer’s NBA Draft. At George Mason University, the 23-year-old Kolek earned Atlantic 10 Rookie of the Year honors in 2021 before transferring to Marquette. He collected numerous accolades at Marquette, including being named Big East Player of the Year in 2023, earning All-Big East First Team honors in consecutive years, and winning the Big East Tournament MVP in 2023. Known for his playmaking ability and shooting touch, Kolek led the NCAA with 7.7 assists per game in his senior year and averaged 15.3 points.

The decision for Jokubaitis to join the Knicks’ Summer League campaign was approved by FC Barcelona. The Summer League, known for its intensity and opportunity for young prospects to shine, will provide the Knicks’ management and coaching staff a firsthand look at Jokubaitis in action.

The Knicks’ Summer League begins on Saturday with a matchup against the Charlotte Hornets. While Rokas’ participation is a significant step forward, whether he secures a place on the Knicks’ roster remains uncertain. However, this opportunity signifies a crucial juncture in his career, and his performance in Las Vegas could potentially shape his future in the NBA.

It should be fun watching Rokas and Tyler work in Vegas. Stay tuned! Go Knicks.