New York Knicks' second-round draft pick, Jack Kayil, has decided to remain in Europe for his professional development, signing a new five-year contract with German club Alba Berlin. The 20-year-old guard was selected 39th overall by the Knicks in the recent NBA draft.
Kayil, who played with Alba Berlin last season, expressed his commitment to the club. "Last season was super successful and I enjoyed a lot — that’s why I’m all the more excited to stay in Berlin," Kayil said in a statement. "Can’t wait to pick up where we left off. The NBA is and remains a big dream of mine — and ALBA is the right place for me to continue that path. The club has already helped me take the decisive steps in this direction. I’m just happy and grateful to be back in this incredible environment."
The Knicks will retain Kayil's draft rights, a common practice for draft-and-stash prospects. Kayil had participated in the Knicks' Summer League games, where he voiced his preference to play in the NBA directly rather than be stashed overseas. "My goal is to play in the NBA. That’s why I went into the draft," Kayil stated during the Summer League. "It’s not my decision, so I’m just trying to show myself in the best way, and it is what it is. I’m super happy I also got drafted, and we’ll see what happens in the next days, weeks, whatever."
Kayil averaged 8.8 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.0 rebounds across four Summer League games, shooting 34.2% from the field and 22.7% from three-point range. He previously helped Alba Berlin secure the Bundesliga championship, contributing 10 points, three rebounds, and a steal in the title game.
ESPN analyst Fran Fraschilla noted Kayil's potential, stating, "Skillwise, he’s still a work in progress, but his athleticism and toughness give him a chance someday soon to be an NBA player." Fraschilla suggested that the Knicks likely view Kayil as needing more development time. "I would be surprised if he was on the roster, but he wouldn’t embarrass himself. But he’s not ready to be a contributor on an NBA championship team," Fraschilla added. "He’s improving. He’s headed toward being an NBA player. I don’t know that he’s there yet, but he certainly made a big step this year, winning a championship. He was a focal point as a 20-year-old on a team with men, grown-ups."
With Kayil returning to Europe, the Knicks still have all three of their two-way contract slots available for the upcoming season.