Knicks select Tyler Kolek with the 34th pick (Updated)
Knicks select Tyler Kolek with the 34th pick (Updated)
The Knicks entered today’s second-round of the 2024 NBA Draft with two picks in their pocket, the 38th and the 51st.
Leon Rose, Brock Aller, and the Knicks front office executed a crafty maneuver last night by spinning the 24th pick into the 26th and 51st via trade. Then they traded the 26th selection into five second-rounders that will be used from 2025 to 2027.
Today, they swapped with the Portland Trail Blazers to secure Tyler Kolek. Details of the deal are yet to be announced. UPDATE: The Knicks sent Portland three second-round picks in exchange for 34.
And the Knicks now have picks at 51 and 56 [UPDATED]. Try to keep up!
Kolek, a talented point guard from Marquette University and the 2023 Big East Player of the Year, had gained significant attention leading up to the 2024 NBA Draft. Known for his playmaking skills, basketball IQ, and improved shooting (38.8% from 3-point range in his final college season), Kolek was projected to be a first-round pick, with mock drafts placing him between picks 18 and 25.
New York had shown strong interest in him as a potential backup to Jalen Brunson.
Scouts praised his competitiveness, experience, and playmaking savvy, despite concerns about his defensive limitations due to his size (6’3”, 190 pounds) and athletic ability. Initially underrecruited out of high school, Kolek began his college career at George Mason before transferring to Marquette, where he developed a strong relationship with head coach Shaka Smart and became a key contributor to the team’s culture. His combination of skills and competitive drive make him an intriguing prospect.
Welcome to New York, Tyler!