When the Knicks selected Deuce McBride with the 36th pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, they didn’t hand him a rotation spot. He had to earn it the hard way - by grinding through garbage-time minutes, staying ready, and making the most of every sliver of opportunity.
Fast forward a few years, and McBride is now a trusted piece in New York’s guard rotation. Ironically, it’s McBride’s current injury that’s opened the door for another second-round pick to walk a similar path: the 34th overall pick in the 2024 Draft, Tyler Kolek.
Right now, Kolek’s job is simple - make noise in the quiet minutes. Blowouts, short stints, spot duty - that’s where he needs to shine. Because if he does, he could carve out a role for himself that sticks even after McBride returns.
Kolek’s Path Mirrors McBride’s - And That’s a Good Thing
The Knicks didn’t make a splash at the trade deadline. Their only move?
Bringing in Jose Alvarado, another point guard known for his defensive edge and energy. That addition doesn’t close the door on Kolek’s season - it just raises the bar.
McBride earned his stripes by staying locked in during the margins of games. Kolek’s got the same opportunity now.
Head coach Mike Brown has made it clear he likes to go deep into his bench, but even he had to tighten things up when the Knicks hit a rough patch - a 2-9 skid that forced some tough decisions. Still, when the Knicks bounced back with an eight-game win streak, Kolek reminded everyone that he can contribute.
His January performance against the Raptors - 10 assists in just 20 minutes - turned heads. Then came a strong showing versus the Trail Blazers, where he dropped four dimes and hit five of his seven shots.
But it was his outing against the Lakers that really stood out. Big stage, big names, big moment - and Kolek delivered.
That’s the kind of performance that gets remembered.
The Blueprint is Already There
McBride didn’t become a rotation player overnight. His breakthrough came after months of development with the Westchester Knicks and seizing chances in low-leverage situations. Eventually, the front office trusted him enough to make real moves - like when they traded RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley to Toronto in the OG Anunoby deal.
Anunoby stepped into Barrett’s starting role. But Quickley’s minutes?
Those were filled internally - by McBride. It was a clear sign of trust, and a reward for the work he’d put in behind the scenes.
Kolek could be next in line, if he keeps doing the little things right.
Looking Ahead: The Window is Open - For Now
Once McBride is healthy, the Knicks’ backcourt rotation will likely tighten up. Jalen Brunson is the engine, McBride is a trusted two-way guard, and Alvarado brings his own brand of chaos on defense.
That’s three guards right there. Add in wings like Mikal Bridges and Landry Shamet - both capable of handling the ball and initiating offense - and the need for another small guard becomes less urgent.
But until McBride returns, Kolek has a real shot to make his case.
This league moves fast. Injuries, trades, unexpected retirements - rosters shift in a heartbeat.
If Kolek can continue to show he belongs, the Knicks’ coaching staff and front office won’t forget it. Even if he’s not in the immediate plans, he’s one strong stretch away from becoming a real part of the conversation.
For now, the mission is clear: stay ready, stay sharp, and keep making the most of every minute. Because in New York, if you prove you can play, you’ll get your shot.