The New York Knicks’ 2025 playoff journey has brought many narratives to the forefront, but few are as pivotal as the performance of Miles McBride. As the postseason intensifies, fans and analysts alike are examining how McBride’s recent form has impacted the Knicks’ depth and overall trajectory. In this article, we break down his recent struggles, his season evolution, and what it all means for one of basketball’s toughest teams.

The Playoff Spotlight on Miles McBride

When the postseason began, hope was high that Miles McBride would deliver the spark off the bench New York needed. He was one of the few reliable reserves throughout the regular season, averaging 9.5 points and shooting at a respectable clip from beyond the arc. However, the playoff intensity has exposed cracks in the Knicks’ depth, putting pressure on McBride to perform.

Recent games, especially in the first-round series against Detroit, have highlighted the challenge. As described in the New York Post’s analysis of the Knicks’ depth problem, McBride logged heavy minutes off the bench but struggled to find his shooting touch. In a critical Game 5, he scored only four points, shooting 2-for-7 from the field and missing all his three-point attempts. With the Knicks trailing and just seconds left, two missed free throws from McBride compounded the team’s late-game struggles.

Breaking Down the Numbers

Throughout the playoff series, McBride has averaged only four points per game, shooting under 27% from the floor and connecting on just 25% of his three-point shots. These figures contrast sharply with his regular-season stats and have contributed to New York’s bench production woes. The Pistons’ reserves, by comparison, have outscored the Knicks’ bench by a wide margin—a critical factor in tightly contested playoff games.

For a more detailed breakdown, Yahoo Sports recaps McBride's pivotal moments in Game 5, pointing out his shooting troubles and missed opportunities at the free throw line. These struggles have not gone unnoticed, raising concerns about the Knicks’ ability to stay competitive as the playoffs advance.

Adjustments and Forward Thinking

Despite recent hardships, it’s essential to remember that Miles McBride had stretches of significant impact, particularly during the regular season and the 2024 playoffs. Fans who followed his journey know he was once close to cementing a spot among the starters. As highlighted by Yardbarker’s feature, there’s still belief in his long-term potential.

Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau remains focused on preparation and resilience, urging McBride to "reset" and "put the proper amount of time into preparation." The challenge for McBride now is to make corrections, regain confidence, and help the Knicks achieve postseason success.

Conclusion: What’s Next for Miles McBride and the Knicks?

As the Knicks continue their playoff run, the spotlight will remain on Miles McBride and the team’s depth. His ability to bounce back and contribute could tip the scales in crucial moments. Fans should stay tuned for updates as the series progresses—there’s plenty of basketball left to play, and every role player’s contribution will matter.

If you want to stay updated on the latest Knicks news, lineup updates, and in-depth analysis of McBride’s role, be sure to check out resources like the New York Post’s Knicks coverage and Yardbarker’s insights.