Knicks Face Depth Challenges in Playoff Series Against Pistons

DETROIT — The New York Knicks are grappling with depth issues as they enter a pivotal Game 6 against the Detroit Pistons in their first-round playoff series. Currently leading the series 3-2, the Knicks have faced difficulties, particularly from their bench, including Miles McBride, who has struggled throughout the postseason.

In Game 5, McBride contributed only four points in 22 minutes, shooting 2-for-7 from the field and missing all three of his 3-point attempts. Late in the game, with the Knicks trailing by three points and 2.6 seconds on the clock, McBride missed two free throws, the second one intentionally. Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau addressed McBride’s performance, emphasizing the importance of preparation as the team moves forward. “Next play, just keep getting ready,” Thibodeau said. “How you reset is important.”

Overall, McBride’s performance has been disappointing this series, averaging just 4 points per game and shooting a mere 26.9% from the field, including 25% from beyond the arc. His struggles have been compounded by injuries to teammates Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart, forcing him into critical roles where he has not thrived. In another game, when Brunson and Hart were on the bench, McBride and teammate Cam Payne failed to maintain a close game, widening a deficit.

Bench scoring disparities have been alarming. The Pistons have accumulated 153 points from their bench, while the Knicks have managed only 63, the second-lowest in the playoffs. This issue was anticipated after the Knicks made significant trades for Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges, limiting their salary cap flexibility. The Knicks concluded the regular season with a league-low total of 1,783 bench points.

McBride had been one of the few reliable bench players during the regular season, averaging 9.5 points with a 36.9% shooting rate from 3-point range. Now, as the playoffs continue, he seeks to improve. “We’re gonna go look at film,” McBride said. “Make corrections and get the job done.”

Meanwhile, the team’s performance in Game 4 demonstrated resilience, highlighted by Brunson’s game-high 32 points, contributing significantly to their win.

The series returns to Madison Square Garden tonight, where the Knicks hope to close out the series and secure a brief break before their next playoff challenge.