INDIANAPOLIS — Tyler Kolek continues to make a compelling case for increased playing time and the coveted backup point guard role with the New York Knicks.

Building on his standout performance in the NBA Cup Final Four, Kolek delivered an impactful double-double during Thursday night’s narrow 114-113 victory over the Indiana Pacers. His efforts were particularly influential during the second quarter, showcasing his potential as a key contributor.

Kolek’s tenacity on the court was evident as he achieved career highs with 16 points and 11 assists over 26 minutes of play. Knicks head coach Mike Brown urged Kolek to adopt the defensive tenacity exemplified by Indiana’s TJ McConnell, known for his grit and longevity in the league.

“I’m not just comparing small white guys like TJ McConnell, but he’s an example of someone who’s carved out a long career through toughness, especially on defense,” Brown stated. “Offensively, he knows where his strengths lie.”

Brown continued, “I told Tyler, ‘If there’s anyone to emulate in the league, it’s him. You have exceptional offensive skills — scoring and passing. You’ve got speed and a natural feel for the game. But defensively, you need to develop a superpower suitable for your size. You’ve got quick feet; now it’s about leveraging them and being physically tough on every possession,’ and he has been doing just that.”

Kolek, among the heroes of Tuesday’s NBA Cup final victory over the Spurs, has been getting more opportunities lately with the injuries to Miles McBride and Landry Shamet.

“The work always pays off, and it’s undefeated,” Kolek said. “What you put in, you’re going to get out. I firmly believe in that. I put in a lot of time.”

McBride is getting closer to returning.

He’s doing on-court basketball activities and is considered day to day with an ankle sprain, according to the Knicks.

He has yet to participate in a practice since the injury, but the team also hasn’t practiced or held a shootaround since Monday.

McBride suffered the sprain Dec. 7 against the Magic, when he drove to the bucket and came up limping after landing on Desmond Bane’s foot.

He’s missed just three games in the subsequent 11 days, however, because the schedule was spread out during the NBA Cup.

In an encouraging sign, McBride traveled with the Knicks to Vegas and was spotted again Thursday without a limp or a walking boot.

Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns were named to the NBA Cup’s All-Tournament team Thursday, as voted by the media.

The three other members were OKC’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, San Antonio’s De’Aaron Fox and the Lakers’ Luka Doncic.

Brunson was the tournament MVP after the Knicks captured the title, joining previous MVPs LeBron James and Giannis Antetokounmpo.