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McBride Ready for Big Role Amidst Anunoby Injury
9 May
Summary
- McBride may fill in for injured Anunoby in crucial playoff games.
- McBride overcame sports hernia surgery to return for playoffs.
- McBride expresses extreme comfort stepping into a larger role.
Miles McBride is prepared to significantly increase his role with the New York Knicks as they navigate the Eastern Conference semifinals against Philadelphia. This potential elevation comes as teammate OG Anunoby is sidelined with a strained left hamstring, initially announced as mild. McBride, who underwent surgery for a sports hernia on February 6, 2026, and returned in late March, is the likeliest candidate to absorb Anunoby's minutes.
McBride stated he is "extremely comfortable" with the prospect of filling in, citing the trust from his coaching staff, teammates, and himself. He acknowledged the difficulty in replacing a player of Anunoby's caliber, noting that team defense relies on collective effort. Previously, McBride stepped up in the first round against Atlanta when Mikal Bridges faced struggles, playing 31 minutes in one game.
Despite past injury challenges, McBride has maintained his focus on performance, recently improving his three-point shooting in the playoffs to 40%. He has been a consistent presence for the Knicks throughout their playoff run, earning admiration for his defensive intensity and developing offensive game.
