Did the Knicks Finally Get Their Own Version of Steve Nash?
Back in 2012, there was a Hall of Famer in the twilight years of his career. Although a seasoned vet, he told reporters that he was considering joining the New York Knicks and their superstar, Carmelo Anthony. However, this point guard ended up joining the Lakers to team up with Kobe Bryant and Dwight Howard. That player was indeed two-time MVP Steve Nash. Now, fast forward to 2025, the Knicks might have found their very own iteration of Nash.
The 34th pick of the 2024 NBA draft, Tyler Kolek, had himself a game. In their 97-94 win against the Brooklyn Nets, Kolek finished the game with 25 points, four assists, and four steals. Four assists does seem rather low for a point guard, but for those who watched the game, there was potential for him to secure a double-double. A milestone that Nash averaged seven times in his career.
Outside of the same jersey number, 13, Kolek’s eyes were everywhere. His head was quite literally on a swivel as he looked for the open man. His hand-eye coordination showcases the same speed that Nash was prone to. Granted, his assists don't match Nash’s output, but that doesn’t mean the potential isn’t there. Either the passes are getting to their target, but can’t capitalize, or his passes are missing their target. Being too flashy or too fast is a problem that the 24-year-old will have to work on.
On the other hand, his shooting touch from the three is a bright spot. Hitting five of 12 attempts from beyond the arc. A milestone that Nash consistently hit numerous times in his career. Kolek’s efficiency is something that could boost the Knicks' offense. During the Nets game, Kolek went seven for 17 from the field, five for 12 from three, and a perfect six for six from the free throw line.
There is a good chance that Tyler Kolek would get a boost in minutes, going from seven to possibly 10 or higher. When the Knicks were facing problems during the 2024-25 season, it wasn’t just because Jalen Brunson couldn’t find a groove. It was because their bench wasn’t given a chance to produce. Guys like Kolek and Jericho Sims have not been given a chance to help their team win. When Brunson was out and Kolek was given the green light, he helped the team secure victories. On March 22, in the 122-103 win against the Wizards, Kolek notched a career-high eight assists. Just three days later, in the 128-113 win against the Mavericks, Kolek bested his record by securing nine assists. The Knicks have a gem in Kolek, and if developed properly, could make the franchise’s dream a reality. They could have their very own version of the two-time MVP.
