Former Marquette Golden Eagles star Tyler Kolek played just three games in the NBA playoffs in his maiden season with the New York Knicks but he is now looking at the offseason as a reset button to establish himself in the line-up.
Marquette Golden Eagles, Tyler Kolek, Shaka Smart
Mar 29, 2024; Dallas, TX, USA; Marquette Golden Eagles head coach Shaka Smart talks to guard Tyler Kolek (11) during the first half in the semifinals of the South Regional of the 2024 NCAA Tournament against the North Carolina State Wolfpack at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Kolek has the most games played among all the players sent the Knicks for the Summer League games and critics think he needs it as much as the rookies and other aspirants.
SB Nation wrote:
Kolek might have the easiest path to playing time of the Summer Knicks, but he also has a lot to prove. We know he can be a ballhandler and distributor, but his scoring ability was inconsistent in the few opportunities he had with the big club. Can he create his own shot consistently and show improvements on defense?
Jalen Brunson, Damian Lillard
Apr 7, 2024; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) drives against Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard (0) in the second half at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Michael McLoone-USA TODAY Sports
He played 41 games in the regular season for the Knicks and had his moments back in March as emergency point guard while the team were waiting for their star Jalen Brunson to return from knee injury.
However, he was sent back deep in Tom Thibodeau’s rotation although it was understandable.
Tyler Kolek is ready for fresh start
Thibodeau is gone and the Knicks got a new coach in Mike Woodson. That does not mean it is favorable to Kolek.
He is determined to prove himself anyway. He is ready to put in the work with all the changes happening, including the arrival of new players who he might compete with for a roster spot and minutes.
Indiana Hoosiers head coach Mike Woodson talks
Indiana Hoosiers head coach Mike Woodson talks to an official Friday, Jan. 31, 2025, during the NCAA men’s basketball game against the Purdue Boilermakers at Mackey Arena in West Lafayette, Ind.
“Every year is a fresh start, new guys come in. We signed some free agents, so every year there’s fresh opportunity.”
He is ready to leave a mark in the Summer League.
“Proving myself here, proving myself in August workouts, prove myself in camp, and then throughout the season,” he said.
“Just keep on proving myself until you get to where you have to be – and then you have to do it all over again. It never really stops.”
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