The Knicks’ solution to the backup point guard situation could come to light in the Summer League

The New York Knicks kicked off their 2024 NBA Summer League campaign on Saturday. The team features an exciting young roster filled with recent draft picks and some intriguing overseas prospects that the Knicks hold in high regard. One storyline in particular to watch has emerged from the Knicks’ backcourt in Summer League.

A pair of young point guards are looking to impress the Knicks in the Summer League

Tyler Kolek, the 34th overall pick in this year’s NBA Draft, and Rokas Jokubaitis, also selected 34th in the 2021 NBA Draft, featured prominently in the Knicks’ Summer League debut. Kolek got the start and finished with seven points, seven rebounds and a team-leading seven assists. The 23-year-old Marquette product was impressive and will likely be in play for a potential rotation spot next season.

As for Jokubaitis, after spending the last three seasons overseas, the 23-year-old is at a crossroads, joining the Knicks’ Summer League roster for the first time since 2021. Jokubaitis will be looking to make a good impression on the team that drafted him, hoping they retain his rights despite expecting him to return overseas next season. He played just 14 minutes on Saturday, scoring eight points on 3-of-6 shooting.

Given the current uncertainty surrounding Jokubaitis and the fact that Kolek played significantly more than he did in the team’s first Summer League game, it is clear that the team is prioritizing Kolek’s development.

Knicks are need for a game reinforcement in the second unit

Why is this a story? Well, it would have to do with the Knicks’ somewhat ambiguous situation at the reserve point guard position. After trading Immanuel Quickley to the Toronto Raptors in last season’s OG Anunoby trade, the Knicks elevated Miles McBride to the team’s sixth man after previously being out of the rotation.

McBride played well, averaging 10.6 points per game off the bench and making 41 percent of his three-pointers after the trade. However, McBride’s ability to lead an offense clearly needs to be developed further, as the Knicks’ offense has stagnated at times with McBride running the show.

The Knicks need more playmakers off the bench, and Kolek fits the bill. One of college basketball’s best passers last season, Kolek brings a new look to the Knicks’ offense. He also takes a big bite out of Jalen Brunson’s ability to carry the offense.

The Knicks’ options for a backup point guard are scarce

New York doesn’t have many options left in free agency. Patrick Beverley, Cameron Payne and former Knick Dennis Smith Jr., among others, are the only real viable options left. With that in mind, the Knicks would be better off giving Kolek the keys to the second unit and letting him learn to play behind Jalen Brunson.

Kolek and the Knicks will get another chance to showcase their talents on Tuesday, July 16, when they take on the Brooklyn Nets.