Normally, a second-year player breaking into the rotation would be a means to celebrate. However, if Knicks' second-year point guard Tyler Kolek breaks into the rotation this season, it will mean something has gone horribly wrong.
The Knicks are on the doorstep of the 2025-26 season with a predicted nine-man rotation of Jalen Brown, Mikal Bridges, Josh Hart, OG Anunoby, Karl-Anthony Towns, Mitchell Robinson, Deuce McBride, Jordan Clarkson, and Guerschon Yabusele.
As currently constructed, McBride is the default backup point guard. Kolek is the only other natural ball-handler on the roster, and if he ends up getting big minutes, it will mean that McBride has greatly disappointed in the role.