Knicks Face Key Decision on Miles McBride Amid Contract Uncertainty
In June, the Knicks captured their first title in 53 years by defeating the San Antonio Spurs in five games. As they prepare to defend the championship, nearly all of the team members have returned. However, one player’s future remains uncertain. Miles McBride, the longest-serving Knick, is in the final year of his contract, earning slightly under $4 million.
The deadline for contract extensions on August 11 passed without McBride signing a new deal. Many consider him a potential trade piece, particularly in proposals that suggest swapping him for a backup center. Nevertheless, trading McBride might be a mistake according to SB Nation’s Posting and Toasting. They argue his modest salary makes him invaluable, as his two-way reliability is rare to find for under $4 million.
“You cannot find that level of two-way reliability for under $4 million,” the site wrote.
Trading a $4 million contract would only return a player of similar worth, likely a third-string center vulnerable to ball screens who might not contribute significantly in the postseason. This would mean losing a key player and gaining someone less impactful, effectively swapping a solid contributor for a benchwarmer.
Previously, the Knicks chose not to trade Mitchell Robinson despite concerns over re-signing him, and he was instrumental in securing the title. McBride might be deserving of similar treatment and retention.
SNY released a video where Knicks’ head coach Mike Brown commented on McBride’s situation, deflecting decision-making responsibility to the front office.
“At the end of the day, he wants to be here, we want him to be here, and that’s something that I have faith in Leon, and even Deuce’s representatives, to figure that out,” Brown said.
McBride brings more value to the Knicks than any center he might fetch in a trade. He averaged a career-high 12 points per game, with a remarkable 41.3% shooting from beyond the arc, and is known for his defensive prowess. The loss of McBride without any return in the summer would be painful, but moving him now for an underutilized big man could jeopardize the Knicks’ chance to secure another championship.