The New York Knicks are starting to look like themselves again. After a rough four-game skid that had fans raising eyebrows, they’ve steadied the ship-and a big part of that has been getting healthy.
For the first time in months, head coach Mike Brown has his full top-eight rotation available. That’s great news for the team’s playoff push, but it’s come at a cost for guys like Jordan Clarkson and Tyler Kolek, who’ve seen their minutes take a significant hit.
Let’s focus on Kolek. The second-year guard has proven he can step up in big moments-he’s not just a feel-good story, he’s been a real contributor when called upon. But right now, with the rotation back at full strength, he’s on the outside looking in.
Kolek's Role Shrinks as Rotation Tightens
Take the Knicks’ loss to the Mavericks on Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
It wasn’t just a loss-it was a 30-point drubbing. In a game like that, you’d expect the bench to get some extended run, especially in the second half.
But Kolek logged just three minutes, scoring two points on three shots. He came in aggressive, which you want to see, but the opportunity just wasn’t there.
Fast forward to the Knicks’ dominant win over the Nets on Wednesday night-a game that turned into a blowout by halftime. Even then, Kolek didn’t get on the floor until the fourth quarter, logging just under 10 minutes.
That’s telling. While the Knicks emptied the bench late, Brown still leaned on his regulars through the third quarter.
Kolek, once again, was left waiting.
It’s not a knock on his talent. In fact, Kolek has already delivered in high-leverage spots this season.
He played a pivotal role in the Knicks’ NBA Cup Championship win over the Spurs in Las Vegas-a game where Jalen Brunson made sure to shout him out for his impact. And who could forget his clutch shooting and hustle plays during the Knicks’ Christmas Day win over the Cavaliers?
That wasn’t just a cameo; that was a guy who knows how to rise to the moment.
A Fit for the Knicks’ Identity
What makes Kolek so intriguing is how well he fits the Knicks’ identity. This team came into the season with a clear strategy: use their depth, keep guys fresh, and build continuity across the roster.
Kolek is tailor-made for that approach. He’s a smart, quick-decision guard who gives Brunson a breather without disrupting the flow.
He defends hard, he moves the ball, and he doesn’t need plays run for him to make an impact.
But the NBA is about adjustments. And after their second four-game losing streak of the season, Mike Brown hit the reset button.
That meant tightening the rotation, leaning on the core, and getting back to basics. Right now, that doesn’t include Kolek in the nightly mix.
Looking Ahead
The reality of an 82-game season is that things change-fast. Injuries, back-to-backs, matchups-they all open doors.
And when those opportunities come, Kolek has shown he’s ready. The Knicks don’t need to rush into any trade deadline decisions with him.
He’s not a player they have to move. Unless there’s a deal on the table that clearly elevates their championship ceiling, there’s real value in keeping him around.
So while Tyler Kolek might be out of the rotation today, he’s not out of the picture. He’s done enough this season to earn the trust of his teammates and coaching staff. And when the next chance comes, don’t be surprised if he makes the most of it-again.