Tyler Kolek impresses in New York Knicks win, sets his G-League record the same day

Kolek played 40 minutes in a G-League game that went to over-time in the morning for the Westchester Knicks, before coming off the bench for the New York Knicks in the night.

The Knicks beat the Utah Jazz 119-103, doing so without Jalen Brunson, who missed his first game of the season.

Tyler Kolek impresses

Tyler Kolek scored 36 points in the G-League for the Westchester Knicks including the game winner, also providing 11 assists in a win over Indiana.

He was immediately parachuted into the New York Knicks squad with the team short-handed to take on the Jazz.

Kolek was the first player off the bench in the second half, playing 12 minutes. He contributed two points, one rebound, and four assists.

He was praised by ESPN radio’s Alan Hahn via MSG Network, who said: “For Tyler Kolek to play 40 minutes in the G-league, come here, I thought he looked really comfortable running the offense when he was out there.

“He didn’t fill the stat sheet in this game, he did this morning, it just showed there’s more depth to this team than anybody wants you to believe.”

Former Knicks rival Paul Pierce is on record saying he believes the Knicks lack the depth to win the championship.

Tyler Kolek ready to step up

Speaking to SNY after the game, Tyler Kolek said he is happy to play his part for the Knicks when he is needed.

Asked about the challenge of going twice in one day, he responded: “It’s more mental than anything. Two guys go out with injury, gotta step in and be ready to go no matter the circumstances”.

Kolek was drafted in the second round of the 2024 NBA Draft, taken 34th overall by the Portland Trail Blazers, with the pick sent to the Knicks.

The rookie has played in 19 games overall for the Knicks this season, although is averaging just 6.1 minutes per appearance.

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