Miles McBride’s confidence continued to grow as he played more games. The second-year guard drained two three-pointers in the New York Knicks‘ 128-120 overtime win against the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday.
McBride’s offense is starting to turn the corner.
Over his last three games, McBride is averaging 7.0 points on 46.7 percent shooting from the floor while providing his usual burst of energy on the defensive end. His 8.75-inch wingspan and competitive spirit have given opposing guards fits.
The Knicks’ defense received a much-needed boost since the 22-year-old McBride was inserted into the regular rotation. His 6.6 net rating is proof of his impact on the Knicks’ current five-game winning streak.
Derrick Rose, the veteran he supplanted in the rotation, is cheering for him.
“I can’t hate on that young man. I had him over for Thanksgiving last year. Real cool with his family members. I love the way he’s playing. I would feel a way if I was hating in any type of fashion. So I’m happy for him.”
McBride has looked up to Rose as his mentor since the Knicks drafted him. It was Rose who kept his confidence from sagging when he couldn’t break Thibodeau’s rotation in his rookie year.
“Derrick (Rose) has been great to me. The past two years, he always tells me to stay ready, ‘your time’s gonna come,’ and he knows I’m a hard worker and very coachable, so whenever my number is called, I’m gonna be ready.”
Miles McBride after Wednesday’s shootaround via Knicks digital
Rose, a long-time Tom Thibodeau loyalist, can’t complain about his demotion because the Knicks kept on winning.
“If we were losing, I’d probably be mad. But we’re winning and playing basketball, so I really can’t complain.”
McBride’s rise means Rose is on his way out.
The Knicks have reportedly been shopping him around ahead of the February 9 trade deadline. But if nothing materializes, Rose is content watching Grimes continue to grow, and the Knicks stay on the winning track.
“I don’t know [about my future with the team]. I really don’t know. I want to stay here but if things switch it may have to be somewhere else.”
The Dallas Mavericks are reportedly interested in the 34-year-old veteran. But the Chicago Bulls, especially with Lonzo Ball unsure of playing this season, also need a point guard. A reunion with his former team could be the perfect sunset tour for the league’s youngest MVP.
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