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3 Reasons Tom Thibodeau can’t ignore Miles McBride in 2023-24

By Zachary Bachar

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 28: Miles McBride #2 of the New York Knicks looks on during the second quarter of the game against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on January 28, 2023 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 28: Miles McBride #2 of the New York Knicks looks on during the second quarter of the game against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on January 28, 2023 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images) /
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Miles McBride, New York Knicks. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images)
Miles McBride, New York Knicks. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images) /

2: Positional flexibility

Speaking of McBride not being a high-volume scorer, one of his best qualities is his low-usage offensive role despite his point guard designation.

He’s not as skilled of a ball-handler or one-on-one scorer as New York’s other point guards, but he’s aware of his strengths and weaknesses when playing alongside Jalen Brunson and Immanuel Quickley.

His ability to play much larger than his six-foot-two, 200-pound frame allows him to switch between both backcourt positions based on whichever lineup Thibodeau is running.

The Knicks’ nine-man rotation is seemingly locked in for this upcoming year, but incorporating McBride into the mix wouldn’t hurt a bit. In fact, New York’s bench unit is almost perfect for Deuce to play in.

Quickley will be leading the show for the reserves at the point, which means that McBride would slide in at the two. New free agent signing Donte DiVincenzo is one of the best rebounding guards in the league, not to mention that Josh Hart is arguably the best rebounding guard in the association.

Their prowess on the glass, as well as their combined defensive acumen, should allow them to move up a position and occupy both forward spots despite being traditionally undersized.

Backup center Isaiah Hartenstein would still be able to operate as a shot-blocker and screen-setter in this theoretical small-ball lineup, utilizing his underrated passing abilities.

The Knicks’ bench has been a strength for years now, and it could become even deadlier with the full-time addition of McBride.

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