The NBA Cup Group Play is officially ON, and your reigning champions, the New York Knicks, are already making noise, especially with Tyler Kolek stepping up big time alongside Jalen Brunson in the backcourt. This isn’t just about early season wins; it is about finding that rhythm that fuels a championship contender, and Kolek sounds like he’s ready to take a huge bite out of this season.
Kolek Stepping Up When It Counts
Knicks coach Mike Brown was the one who floated the idea of throwing Kolek in the game with Brunson against Chicago. Talk about a call that paid off, right? Kolek absolutely lit up the floor, delivering a “big floor game” in that comeback win over the Bulls. It’s clear the coaching staff sees something special there. While Jose Alvarado is out, Kolek is locked in for solid minutes, and his role will get figured out when Alvarado makes his return. Kolek himself is buzzing about the pairing. He told @patokeefe12 that he and Brunson “played together last year stretches, great guy to play off.” You can tell he’s embracing the challenge, even with the defensive responsibilities that come with it: “Obv 2 smaller guards so I have to compete on D but I’m willing to do anything.” That’s the kind of attitude that wins you games, folks.
More Mature Game, Harder Defense
Kolek isn’t just happy to be there, he’s got a focused plan for his game as the backup point guard. He’s talking about “not trying to make the home run play” and instead focusing on getting the team into offense and finding the best shots. It is all about “being more mature” and “taking care of the ball.” He knows he cannot be turning it over; he has to get the team good looks. And playing with a superstar like Brunson? Kolek confirms that Brunson is “a great guy to play off” because teams are going to double-team him, leaving Kolek with those sweet, open shots. He’s also fully aware of the defensive hustle needed: “Obviously it’s two smaller guards, so I have to compete harder on defense.” That is the kind of self-awareness you love to see in a guy ready to make a big impact. Jalen Brunson himself is focused on cleaning up their act, urging the team to avoid those “opening-night mistakes” they made last time out. This group has a veteran mentality; as “Clutch” put it, they are a “veteran group…ECF, Finals…tight game, we’re gonna get it done.”
Tonight is massive for the Knicks. They kick off their 2026 Emirates NBA Cup Group Play by visiting Maxey and the 76ers. With Kolek showing this kind of maturity and chemistry alongside Brunson, the early season form for the reigning champs is looking really promising, and you know they are going to come out firing.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Posting and Toasting.
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