New York Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau has broken his pattern of limiting rookie playtime this season due to injuries affecting key players. With Miles McBride, Precious Achiuwa, and Mitchell Robinson sidelined, rookies Pacome Dadiet, Tyler Kolek, and Ariel Hukporti have stepped up significantly.

Despite Thibodeau's reputation, the Knicks are one of only four teams to give substantial minutes to three different rookies early in the season. Hukporti, the 58th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, has emerged as a key contributor with the most minutes logged among first-year players.