The New York Knicks have traded for guard Jose Alvarado from the New Orleans Pelicans ahead of the NBA trade deadline on Thursday at 3 p.m. ET, addressing concerns about the backcourt following news of Miles McBride’s injury. This move comes as McBride is expected to undergo surgery for a core muscle injury and could be sidelined until the playoffs.
McBride’s Injury Spurs Knicks to Add Guard Depth
The Knicks moved decisively to strengthen their guard rotation after learning that McBride, who has been managing a left ankle injury, will need surgery and likely miss significant playing time. McBride last played in New York’s 103–87 victory over the Sacramento Kings on January 27, contributing nine points, four assists, two rebounds, and two steals in 28 minutes on the court.
Now in his fifth NBA season, McBride has become a key contributor for the Knicks, averaging career-highs of 12.9 points, 2.8 assists, and 2.6 rebounds per game while shooting 43.4 percent overall and 42 percent from three-point range through 35 games, including 14 starts.
“Getting another backup ballhandler like Alvarado was a priority because Miles McBride will undergo surgery for a core muscle injury and may be out until the playoffs, league sources said,”
the report explained.
“McBride, 25, has missed last few games with ‘left ankle injury management.’”
– The Athletic
Alvarado Acquisition and Trade Details
To secure Alvarado, the Knicks parted with Dalen Terry, two second-round draft picks, and cash considerations. Terry, who was only acquired earlier this week from the Chicago Bulls in exchange for Guerschon Yabusele, was included in the package as New York aimed for immediate guard reinforcement.
Alvarado, 27, is in his fifth NBA season with New Orleans and has averaged 7.9 points, 3.1 assists, and 2.8 rebounds per game this season while shooting 41.8 percent from the field and 36.3 percent from beyond the arc in 41 games. His defensive intensity and on-ball pressure provide the Knicks with a high-energy presence off the bench.
The trade also offers New York some financial flexibility.
“New York sheds even more payroll with the deal,”
the report noted.
“Terry makes $5.4 million and Alvarado is at $4.5 million, allowing the Knicks to get into the buyout market sooner.”
– The Athletic
Knicks Poised for Continued Success Amid Backcourt Changes
The Knicks have been surging this season and currently hold the second spot in the Eastern Conference standings with a 33–18 record, following their latest win — a 134–127 double-overtime thriller against the Denver Nuggets. Adding Alvarado is expected to bolster the team’s guard depth as they prepare for an important stretch.
New York will begin a two-game road trip on Friday night against the Eastern Conference-leading Detroit Pistons, who hold a 37–12 record. The game is set for a 7:30 p.m. ET tipoff and will be broadcast on Prime Video. Integrating Alvarado into the rotation will be a next step for the Knicks as they strive to maintain their position near the top of the playoff race.
🚨 Miles McBride will undergo surgery on a core muscle injury on Friday and could be sidelined until the playoffs, per @TheAthletic. pic.twitter.com/ob45Zv0b70
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 5, 2026
