The New York Knicks blockbuster trade for Karl-Anthony Towns has set the stage for significant changes heading into the 2024-25 NBA season. Among the biggest beneficiaries of this move is guard Miles McBride, whose value to the Knicks has skyrocketed. In the wake of the trade, McBride’s role in the Knicks’ rotation is set to expand, as the departure of Donte DiVincenzo opens up a critical guard spot.
NBA Business: Miles McBride’s Value Goes Up After DiVincenzo’s Knicks Exit
This opportunity couldn’t come at a better time for McBride, who showed tremendous growth during the 2023-24 season. His combination of sharp shooting and tenacious defense has made him a valuable piece of the Knicks’ puzzle, and now, with more playing time, he has the chance to further elevate his game.
Breakout Performance in the 2023-24 Season
McBride’s rise in value began during the 2023-24 season when he took a massive leap in his shooting efficiency. After struggling from beyond the arc in 2022-23 with a 29.9% three-point shooting percentage, McBride rebounded impressively, knocking down 41% of his threes the following season. His transformation from a defensive specialist into a reliable shooter was pivotal for the Knicks, especially as they battled injuries late in the season.
One notable moment came during the Knicks’ first-round series against the Philadelphia 76ers. McBride’s defensive intensity and timely shooting helped the Knicks secure a crucial Game 1 victory. This performance cemented Miles McBride’s value as a player who could step up in critical moments for the Knicks.
Filling the Void Left by Donte DiVincenzo
DiVincenzo’s departure to Minnesota in the Towns trade has positioned McBride as the next player in Tom Thibodeau’s trusted nine-man rotation. Thibodeau typically maintains a tight rotation, depending on a core group to handle most of the minutes. McBride’s development last season has positioned him perfectly to seize this opportunity.
DiVincenzo, who was expected to be a key contributor off the bench, leaves a void that McBride is more than capable of filling. McBride has already proven his ability to knock down shots and defend at a high level. His versatile skill set allows him to play both on and off the ball, making him an ideal fit to take on more responsibility in the Knicks’ backcourt rotation.
Building Chemistry with Towns and Brunson
McBride’s increased role will also give him more opportunities to play alongside Towns and Jalen Brunson, two of the Knicks’ most important players. Towns, known for his ability to pass out of double teams, will provide McBride with plenty of catch-and-shoot opportunities. Additionally, Brunson’s leadership and playmaking will create open looks for McBride, allowing him to continue building on his shooting success from last season.
In the Knicks’ half-court offense, McBride can thrive as a floor spacer who can knock down open shots while staying active off the ball. His ability to cut to the basket and finish around the rim will also be an asset, especially with Towns and Brunson drawing defenders away from him.
Defensive Stalwart in the Backcourt
While McBride’s offensive improvements have been impressive, his defensive prowess remains his calling card. At 6-foot-2, McBride may not have the size of some of the NBA’s elite defenders, but his tenacity and ability to lock down opposing guards make him a crucial part of the Knicks’ defensive scheme. With Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby expected to lead the team’s defense on the perimeter, McBride will be tasked with bringing that same intensity off the bench.
McBride’s role as a ball-stopper will be even more critical in Thibodeau’s system, which prioritizes tough, physical defense. His ability to disrupt opposing guards and force turnovers will give the Knicks a valuable defensive weapon, particularly in matchups against teams with strong backcourts.
Miles McBride’s Value to the Knicks
McBride will have a base salary of $4.71 million for the 2024-25 season, with a cap hit of the same amount. This contract reflects his increasing value to the Knicks, especially as his minutes and impact on the court grow. McBride signed a three-year, $13 million deal with the Knicks, with all of it fully guaranteed. His current cap hit represents about 3.35% of the team’s total salary cap for the season.
Given the Knicks’ need for strong defensive guards and McBride’s proven potential in limited minutes, his value has risen. With more consistent playing time, McBride could emerge as a key rotation player, contributing both on defense and as a developing offensive asset. His relatively modest salary gives the Knicks flexibility while allowing them to capitalize on his upside.
Miles Mcbride Seizing His Opportunity on the Knicks
The Towns trade has opened the door for McBride to take on a larger role, and he is poised to make the most of it. With DiVincenzo gone and a spot open in Thibodeau’s rotation, McBride is in line for increased minutes and responsibilities. His growth as a shooter, combined with his elite defensive skills, makes him a key piece for the Knicks moving forward.
As the Knicks look to build on their playoff success from last season, McBride will be a crucial part of their plans. Whether he’s coming off the bench or filling in as a starter, McBride’s ability to contribute on both ends of the floor will make him an invaluable asset for the team. The opportunity is now his to seize, and if his performance last season is any indication, McBride is more than ready to step up.
