Should the 25-26 Knicks Be Concerned About a 25-Year-Old Guard’s Post-Injury Performance?
The New York Knicks are in the midst of a three-game losing streak after a 111-94 defeat to the Houston Rockets, raising concerns as the NBA Playoffs approach. Despite the skid, a major positive has been the return of Miles McBride, who had been sidelined following core muscle surgery. However, in his return against the Oklahoma City Thunder, the 25-year-old suffered another scare after colliding with Lu Dort while diving for a loose ball, injuring his pelvic area. With the Knicks now at risk of slipping in the Eastern Conference standings, swapping places with the Cleveland Cavaliers, this latest injury concern adds another layer of uncertainty during a critical stretch of the season.
McBride has been enjoying a career year, averaging 12 points, three rebounds, and three assists while shooting well above league average from three-point range. His impact has been noticeable, especially as a key piece of the second unit. During the NBA Trade Deadline, the Knicks added Jose Alvarado, creating competition in the backcourt alongside Jordan Clarkson, who re-emerged in the rotation. In the loss to Houston, Clarkson logged 19 minutes, Alvarado played 12, and McBride finished with 13. Considering the 25-year-old guard was averaging nearly 27 minutes per game before his injury, the reduced workload raises questions about whether the Knicks are easing him back in or managing a lingering issue.
Recovery from core muscle surgery typically takes six to eight weeks, and while McBride returned on schedule, any setback could impact his availability for the postseason. In McBride’s first two games back, he has a combined three points, two rebounds, and three assists, on abysmal shooting splits, a severe cause for concern. The Knicks have been inconsistent throughout the season, even after a midseason turnaround sparked by a players-only meeting led by Jalen Brunson. Now, with three consecutive losses, the team must decide whether prioritizing the 25-year-old guard’s health is more important than immediate results. With a guard-heavy rotation, New York has the flexibility to rely on Alvarado and Clarkson to carry the second unit if needed.
In 37 games played, the Knicks are 22-15 with McBride playing, and 9-5 when he's in the starting rotation. Looking ahead, the Knicks have favorable matchups against the Memphis Grizzlies and Chicago Bulls before a key game against the Atlanta Hawks, a potential first-round opponent in the Eastern Conference. Injuries have been a recurring issue for New York, with Brunson, OG Anunoby, Mitchell Robinson, and Landry Shamet all missing time at various points. Whether the 25-year-old guard returns to a full role or is limited to ensure long-term health remains to be seen. If the Knicks want to make a deep run in the NBA Playoffs, having a fully healthy rotation could be the difference between an early exit and a push toward the NBA Finals.
