Did Tyler Kolek start for the Knicks against the Timberwolves?

Yes, Tyler Kolek made his first career start for the Knicks against the Timberwolves when Jalen Brunson was out.

What were Tyler Kolek's stats in his career-starting game?

Tyler Kolek recorded career highs with 20 points and 11 rebounds, plus eight assists.

What did Coach Brown say about Tyler Kolek's performance?

Coach Brown felt Tyler Kolek tried his best but acknowledged the team needed more from him, especially defensively.

Home / Sports / Kolek's Career Night: Knicks Rookie Shines in Loss

Kolek's Career Night: Knicks Rookie Shines in Loss

24 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Tyler Kolek achieved career highs with 20 points and 11 rebounds.
He recorded these career bests in his first career start.
Coach Brown noted a need for improved defensive effort from Kolek.

Kolek's Career Night: Knicks Rookie Shines in Loss

Tyler Kolek seized his opportunity during Tuesday night's game, stepping into his first career start for the Knicks in their 115-104 loss to the Timberwolves. He achieved personal bests, recording 20 points and 11 rebounds, alongside eight assists in 31 minutes on the court. Kolek expressed his eagerness to capitalize on such chances, noting the team's confidence in him.

Despite Kolek's offensive output, coach Mike Brown pointed to defensive shortcomings, stating more was needed from the young player to secure road victories. This performance comes at a crucial time as the Knicks assess their backup point guard situation, with Miles McBride nearing a return from injury and potential trade deadline acquisitions being considered.

In other game events, Josh Hart received a Flagrant 1 foul for an incident with Rudy Gobert during a rebound battle. Hart explained the play stemmed from frustration after feeling he was pushed and then contacted by Gobert, clarifying he did not intentionally target Gobert's knee. Coach Brown also experimented with a zone defense in the second quarter to alter the game's momentum.