The New York Knicks ended a 53-year championship drought in June by defeating the San Antonio Spurs in five games. As the Knicks prepare to defend their title, nearly the entire team is returning. However, one key player, Miles McBride, is in the final year of his contract.
McBride, the longest-serving player on the Knicks roster, earns just under $4 million. Despite the passing of the extension deadline on August 11 without a new deal, speculation about trading McBride has increased. Many suggest he could be traded for a backup center.
However, experts argue that trading McBride would be a mistake. SB Nation’s Posting and Toasting emphasized his value, noting, “You cannot find that level of two-way reliability for under $4 million.” The article suggests analyzing potential trades reveals that a $4 million center would likely be a third-string player, offering minimal contribution in crucial games.
The Knicks faced a similar situation last season with Mitchell Robinson. Despite doubts about re-signing him, team president Leon Rose chose to keep Robinson, who played a vital role in their title run. Fans and pundits argue McBride deserves the same consideration.
“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,” Knicks head coach Mike Brown commented in a video shared by SNY.
McBride’s performance supports these sentiments. He achieved a career-high average of 12 points per game while shooting 41.3% from three-point range and providing full-court pressure on defense. Losing him without any gain next summer would be painful, but letting him go now for a minimal contribution from a backup center could jeopardize the Knicks’ chances for a consecutive championship.