New York Knicks Year In Review: Miles McBride

The New York Knicks concluded their most successful season in 25 years with 51 wins and their first NBA final four appearance since 2000, though they suffered a six-game defeat to the Indiana Pacers and subsequently parted ways with head coach Tom Thibodeau after five seasons.

In the offseason, the focus shifts to the roster, with Miles McBride highlighted as a key player in his fourth season, posting averages of 9.5 points, 2.9 assists, and a 7.9 net rating. McBride's role expanded significantly after the Knicks traded RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley to Toronto in late 2023, elevating him from a fringe player to a core contributor, supported by his defensive reputation.

Management solidified trust in McBride by signing him to a three-year extension and trading Quentin Grimes at the deadline, cementing his spot in the rotation. He thrived with increased minutes, averaging 10.7 points on over 44% shooting after the new year, aiding the team's rise to the East's second seed, and maintained his role despite offseason departures like Alec Burks and Donte DiVincenzo.

Despite a shooting slump and injuries, including an eight-game absence due to a groin issue, McBride's consistent defense earned him steady playing time. He showed promise in the playoffs with three double-figure scoring games against Boston and set a career-high in assists. In 10 starts, he averaged 14 points and 5.3 assists, highlighted by a standout performance against Chicago on February 20, where he scored 23 points with all-around contributions in an overtime win.

Former coach Tom Thibodeau praised McBride's shooting development, noting that practice efforts eventually translated to game success after initial struggles.