Miles McBride has become a focal point of discussion among New York Knicks fans and NBA analysts alike. As the Knicks fight for postseason success, McBride’s development and recent playoff performance have taken center stage. In this article, we examine his challenges during the 2025 NBA Playoffs, review his overall progress, and consider what the future may hold for this promising young guard.

Miles McBride’s Playoff Struggles

The playoffs often define players' careers. For Miles McBride, this postseason has been a tough stretch. The Knicks’ depth issues, which were apparent during the regular season, have become more exposed during their series against the Detroit Pistons. According to a New York Post analysis, McBride has dealt with shooting woes, averaging just 4 points per game on 26.9% shooting from the field and 25% from three-point range.

In Game 5, McBride’s struggles were evident. He finished with four points on 2-for-7 shooting and missed all of his three-point attempts. With the Knicks trailing by three, he missed two crucial free throws in the final seconds. This continued a difficult series in which bench scoring has lagged well behind the opposition. The Pistons’ bench accumulated 153 points compared to the Knicks' 63, placing New York near the bottom among playoff teams for bench contribution.

Impact on the Knicks’ Depth and Rotation

The lack of bench production has forced the Knicks to rely heavily on their starters, especially with McBride and other reserves struggling to make a significant impact. When Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart were briefly sidelined, McBride and Cam Payne were put in the spotlight. Unfortunately, this experiment resulted in a widening deficit for New York, underscoring the team’s thin rotation.

A Yahoo Sports recap highlighted how McBride hasn’t found his groove throughout the series. His shooting troubles and missed opportunities at the free-throw line have made it difficult for the Knicks to close out tight games. These struggles have only amplified questions about the team’s depth and whether McBride can be a steady contributor in high-pressure situations.

Progress and Promise Beyond the Playoffs

Despite these recent shortcomings, it’s important to remember Miles McBride’s broader career trajectory. Last season, McBride showcased his potential with a strong playoff run and steady improvement, making a case for a larger role within the rotation. As Yardbarker notes, McBride at times appeared on the verge of breaking out, fueled by confidence and flashes of two-way ability.

Moreover, his overall three-point shooting during the regular season (36.9%) and his defensive intensity have been valuable assets. The question now is whether he can bounce back from a challenging postseason and elevate his game to become a reliable force in future playoff campaigns.

What’s Next for Miles McBride and the Knicks?

Miles McBride’s current struggles might be a temporary setback rather than a lasting trend. Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau emphasized the need to "reset" and approach each game with fresh preparation. With continued development and support from the coaching staff, McBride has the tools to overcome adversity and regain his confidence.

As the Knicks look to address their depth issues and gear up for future contention, McBride’s growth will remain a key storyline. Fans will be watching closely to see how he responds, both in the remainder of this postseason and beyond.

In summary: Miles McBride’s playoff struggles have shone a light on the Knicks’ depth challenges, but his long-term potential shouldn’t be dismissed. Continued hard work and focused development could see him become a critical part of the Knicks’ future plans. For more insights on McBride’s journey and the Knicks’ playoff push, check out this in-depth New York Post feature.