The New York Knicks may soon face a challenging roster situation as they approach the end of the regular season. Guard Miles McBride’s recovery from core muscle surgery could sideline him through the final weeks, creating uncertainty around the team’s lineup and chemistry heading into the playoffs.
McBride underwent the procedure on February 6, and according to reports by New York Post’s Stefan Bondy, his recovery window is estimated at six to eight weeks. This timeline means McBride could return as late as the last week of March or potentially miss the remainder of the regular season, which is scheduled to conclude on April 12. With the NBA playoffs beginning April 18, reintegrating him into the rotation on short notice presents a complex situation for the Knicks coaching staff.
McBride’s Breakout Season and Impact on Team Dynamics
Before his injury, McBride was experiencing the most productive stretch of his career, posting personal bests across several statistical categories. At 25 years old, he was averaging 12.9 points, 2.8 assists, 2.6 rebounds, and nearly one steal per game while logging 28 minutes per contest, primarily coming off the bench.
The 36th overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft had become one of New York’s most reliable perimeter shooters, making 42% of his attempts from beyond the arc on nearly seven attempts per game. His shooting ability provided essential spacing for the Knicks, especially as defenses increasingly focused on star guard Jalen Brunson. Additionally, McBride’s defense and playmaking secured him a regular spot in closing lineups, a role now temporarily filled by another newcomer.
Locked into a three-year, $13 million contract, McBride’s deal is broadly considered a strong value by league standards, underscoring his importance to the Knicks’ long-term plans.
Jose Alvarado Takes Over Key Backup Responsibilities
With McBride out, the Knicks have turned to Jose Alvarado, acquired from the New Orleans Pelicans at the trade deadline. The swap involved sending Dalen Terry, two second-round draft picks, and cash to New Orleans.
Alvarado, a native of Brooklyn, quickly became a fan favorite at Madison Square Garden. In his first seven games with the Knicks, he has contributed averages of 9.4 points, 3.6 assists, 2.7 rebounds, and 2.0 steals per game, energizing the second unit with his defensive tenacity and hustle.
Alvarado’s Big Moment in a Crucial Comeback
Alvarado’s most memorable performance came during New York’s dramatic rally against the Houston Rockets last week. Trailing by 18 points entering the fourth quarter, Knicks head coach Mike Brown entrusted Alvarado with a high-energy lineup tasked with mounting a comeback.
Throughout nearly the entire final quarter, Alvarado was a catalyst for the Knicks’ surge in a 108–106 victory. Within just under 11 minutes, he tallied five points, three assists, and three steals, shifting momentum decisively. His three-pointer with 8:03 remaining capped a 14–2 run that cut Houston’s lead to 99–97. Shortly after, two consecutive steals sparked transition baskets that tied the game at 103 with just over a minute left.
The guard ended the game with eight points, five steals, and four assists, despite shooting only 3-of-9 from the field. This marked his third career game with five steals, and notably, two of those have occurred within the past ten days wearing a Knicks uniform.
It’s kind of like a pride thing,
Alvarado said, per the New York Post.
When I play here, it’s like playing for my hometown or my national team. I always feel like I gotta represent on another level.
Decisions Loom for Playoff Rotation with McBride’s Return Uncertain
The Knicks face a complex decision regarding McBride’s reintegration if he returns late in the regular season or just before the playoffs. Head coach Mike Brown will need to adjust his rotation carefully, especially since playoff rotations typically narrow to seven or eight players. Adding a key contributor on short notice often disrupts established roles and chemistry.
However, the Knicks recognize that proceeding without McBride could compromise their depth. Last postseason, New York’s limited bench contributed to fatigue issues that affected their performance against the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals.
With McBride’s return still uncertain and Jose Alvarado establishing himself as a vital piece, the Knicks have more options—yet these also introduce difficult lineup choices. Whether McBride can reclaim his spot or Alvarado’s emergence leads to a new playoff hierarchy may prove pivotal in New York’s bid for a championship run.
Apologies and I corrected this error: he could miss the remainder of the regular season. Expected was not the right word. Was told a 6 to 8 week recovery. https://t.co/3G0bzbduwt
— Stefan Bondy (@SbondyNBA) February 26, 2026
