Tyler Kolek, Knicks
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Tyler Kolek gets a competition in New York Knicks backcourt with the arrival of Jose Alvarado.
The arrival of Jose Alvarado is expected to solidify the New York Knicks’ backup point guard spot, but it has not dampened the competitive edge of Tyler Kolek.
Instead, the second-year guard has welcomed the challenge.
“There’s always competition in this league,” Kolek told the New York Post on Friday. “Obviously, Deuce is out for a little bit. We’re trying to be a championship-level team, so you bring in as much talent as you can. I’m going to compete every single day. He’s going to compete. Everybody on this team is going to compete for minutes. So it’s no slight to anybody.”
Knicks Move Quickly After McBride Injury
Kolek’s comments came in the wake of a swift roster adjustment by the Knicks, who moved aggressively after losing Miles McBride for an extended period.
McBride recently underwent surgery to repair a core muscle injury, a development that left New York thin behind All-Star point guard Jalen Brunson and prompted immediate action at the trade deadline.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Knicks acquired Alvarado from the New Orleans Pelicans in exchange for Dalen Terry, two second-round picks, and cash considerations.
The move was designed to stabilize the backcourt as the Knicks push toward the postseason.
Alvarado Slotted for Immediate Role
Jose Alvarado, Knicks
GettyJose Alvarado is expected to be a crowd favorite with his hometown team New York Knicks.
Alvarado is expected to step directly into McBride’s role as Brunson’s primary backup once he clears the trade process.
A Brooklyn native, Alvarado starred at Christ the King High School and grew up idolizing Carmelo Anthony, making his return to New York a natural fit. He also brings strong ties to Puerto Rico, having represented the island in international competition — a background that resonates with the Knicks’ fan base.
Nicknamed “Grand Theft Alvarado” for his knack for generating steals, the 27-year-old guard brings career averages of 8.1 points, 3.0 assists, 2.2 rebounds, and 1.2 steals, along with a relentless, defense-first style that aligns closely with New York’s identity.
Kolek’s Role Shifts but Opportunity Remains
With Alvarado’s arrival, Kolek is expected to slide into an emergency backup role when the roster is fully healthy. The former Marquette standout has seen his minutes fluctuate this season, serving mostly as a situational option behind Brunson and McBride.
Still, Kolek has shown flashes when called upon.
The 24-year-old is averaging 5.0 points, 3.1 assists, and 1.9 rebounds in 13.7 minutes per game, functioning as a traditional table-setter rather than an energy disruptor.
“Try to do the same thing I’ve always been doing,” Kolek said. “Do whatever the team needs from me, whatever the coach needs from me. When I get in there, change the pace. Get guys the ball.”
While Alvarado’s defensive pressure and off-ball chaos contrast with Kolek’s pass-first approach, the Knicks value both skill sets depending on the matchup and availability.
Short-Term Opening With Alvarado Delayed
In the short term, Kolek could see an additional opportunity.
Alvarado was not with the team for Friday night’s marquee matchup against the Eastern Conference-leading Detroit Pistons, as he has yet to officially clear the post-trade process.
According to Ian Begley of SNY, Alvarado and Terry must pass physicals before joining their respective teams.
That delay gives Kolek a chance to showcase himself before the rotation tightens again.
Competition Fits Knicks’ Culture
Internally, the Knicks view the situation less as a demotion and more as a reflection of organizational standards.
New York has emphasized depth, toughness, and internal competition throughout its rise in the Eastern Conference standings. Kolek’s willingness to embrace a crowded backcourt mirrors that mindset.
Alvarado represents the immediate solution. Kolek remains the insurance policy — and a willing competitor — in a Knicks backcourt built to withstand the grind of a championship chase.