Knicks Face Tough Decision with Miles McBride’s Return
Miles McBride has been sidelined since late January after sports hernia surgery. He is now closing in on a return with eight regular-season games remaining before the playoffs.
Immediate impact on the second unit
McBride’s comeback restores one of the Knicks’ top bench scorers. He also brings elite on-ball defense back to the roster.
The team must weigh roster balance. The Knicks face a tough decision about who cedes minutes when he is activated.
Jose Alvarado’s recent slide
Jose Alvarado essentially filled McBride’s rotation spot while he was out. Over his last 10 games, Alvarado has averaged 3.4 points and shot 36 percent from the field.
In Thursday’s loss to the Charlotte Hornets, he played five first-half minutes without recording a stat. He was then benched in the second half for Tyler Kolek.
Alvarado started his Knicks tenure with aggressive play on both ends. He has become more passive offensively and has encountered foul trouble recently.
Logjam at guard
Jordan Clarkson’s re-emergence has crowded the second unit. Clarkson now shares backcourt minutes with Alvarado and Landry Shamet.
Shamet has provided steady defense and three-point shooting throughout the season. That consistency strengthens the case for keeping him in the rotation.
Role of Mohamed Diawara and playoff strategy
Rookie Mohamed Diawara has been in and out of the rotation amid Clarkson’s resurgence. The Knicks could use his size in short bursts during the postseason.
However, relying on Diawara for extended playoff minutes appears unlikely. The staff will favor proven, trustworthy options while chasing a title.
Likely short-term outcomes
Given the current form lines, Alvarado looks most at risk of losing consistent minutes. He may become a situational option in the playoffs.
McBride’s energy and defense should spark the bench. Filmogaz.com sources say his return will matter for matchups and late-season rotations.
Coaches will sort details in practice and games before the postseason. The final rotation choices will reflect form, matchup needs, and playoff readiness.
