McBride’s Injury Clouds Knicks’ Playoff Hopes After Loss to Hawks

NEW YORK, N.Y. — The New York Knicks faced a daunting setback on Wednesday night as guard Miles McBride exited the game against the Atlanta Hawks with a left rib contusion, casting a shadow over the team’s playoff aspirations. McBride, who had recently showcased his sharpshooting skills by scoring 15 points against the Indiana Pacers, was unable to make an impact in this critical matchup, logging only eight minutes on the court.

The Knicks, who maintained a narrow 104-101 lead heading into the fourth quarter, lost momentum after McBride’s exit. He attempted only one shot before being ruled out in the third quarter, when the team announced, “Miles McBride (left rib contusion) is out for the remainder of tonight’s game,” through its official Twitter account.

Despite McBride’s scoring prowess, the Knicks’ bench struggled significantly, contributing a mere four points by the end of the third quarter. In contrast, the Hawks’ bench thrived, with players like Georges Niang and Caris LeVert scoring 16 and 14 points, respectively, to help secure the victory for Atlanta.

Head coach Tom Thibodeau recognized the challenges his team faced, particularly with key players sidelined. “We needed a full squad, especially since OG Anunoby is still out with a foot injury, and Mitchell Robinson is recovering from ankle surgery,” he commented. “McBride’s performance was pivotal, but we need other players to step up in his absence.”

The Knicks’ second unit has been a concern this season, averaging just 21.7 points per game—the lowest in the league. Thibodeau had recently praised the bench for their performance against the Pacers, but that spark was absent against the Hawks. Landry Shamet and Cameron Payne combined for only 14 points in the game, failing to replicate the production seen earlier.

“With how shorthanded we are, we need our bench to contribute more than they did tonight,” Thibodeau said. “We cannot rely solely on our starters to carry the load, especially in tough matchups.”

McBride has been enjoying a career year before his injury, averaging 9 points, 2.6 assists, and 2.3 rebounds across 44 games this season. He has shown he can provide a major boost to the Knicks’ scoring capability and defensive efforts. His standout performance this season occurred on opening night against the Boston Celtics, where he scored 22 points on 80% shooting.

As the team looks toward their upcoming games, including a matchup against Jevon Carter and the Chicago Bulls following the All-Star break, McBride’s availability will be critical. Knicks fans and management alike are hopeful for a quick recovery, given his crucial role in the team’s success so far this season.