Deuce McBride Poised to Be Knicks’ Fifth Starter

With Josh Hart sidelined due to an ankle injury, the New York Knicks are seeking a fifth starter to complement their core lineup consisting of Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, OG Anunoby, and Mikal Bridges. Rookie Mohamed Diawara is currently filling the gap, but Miles “Deuce” McBride is stepping into the conversation as a strong candidate for that position.

McBride’s Performance and Impact

McBride, who has shown impressive performance recently, was averaging 14.7 points per game with a 48.4% success rate on three-pointers before a left ankle sprain sidelined him for eight games. His return was highlighted by a standout game against the San Antonio Spurs, where he scored 21 points and hit 4 of 9 from beyond the arc.

Knicks’ Success With McBride

• New York holds a 17-4 record when McBride plays this season.
• When he’s absent, their record drops to 6-6, not including the NBA Cup final.

In his 26.5 minutes per game, the 25-year-old is enjoying a career-best season, averaging 12.1 points and hitting 44.2% of his six 3-point attempts, ranking 12th in the league.

Contract and Value

On December 30, the two-year anniversary of the trade involving Anunoby, RJ Barrett, and Immanuel Quickley serves as a reminder of McBride’s journey. This trade allowed more playing time for McBride, who signed a team-friendly contract considered one of the best value deals in the NBA. He is currently earning $4.3 million, with a decreasing salary of $3.9 million by the 2026-27 season.

A Unique Development Trajectory

Drafted as the No. 36 pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, McBride’s early career saw him limited to sporadic minutes behind veterans Kemba Walker and Derrick Rose. Initially viewed mainly as a defensive specialist due to his inconsistent shooting, he has since transformed into a 3-and-D player with a revamped shooting form.

Skills on the Court

McBride has made significant improvements in his shooting technique and now excels in various scenarios, from catch-and-shoot opportunities to creating his own shot off the dribble. His notable height advantage against taller defenders allows him to score effectively.

Fit Within the Starting Lineup

While not a traditional point guard, McBride has demonstrated the ability to function effectively in tandem with Brunson. His defensive prowess at the point of attack and ability to maintain spacing makes him an asset for the Knicks. Despite having started only 37 of 258 career games, his statistics suggest that he performs well in starting roles, averaging 18 points during the current season’s 14 starts.

Future Considerations

Despite McBride’s rising value in the league, there are rumors surrounding his potential trade discussions. Nevertheless, the Knicks would be wise to recognize his readiness to take on a full-time starting role. With Donte DiVincenzo’s return speculated, McBride’s position remains secure, given his contributions and the team’s needs.

As the Knicks look to solidify their lineup, Deuce McBride has positioned himself as a pivotal player, demonstrating the skill and tenacity required to succeed as the Knicks’ potential fifth starter.