Miles McBride is playing out the last year of his deal with the New York Knicks, and all signs point to the team watching him walk in NBA Free Agency for absolutely no value in return. This is a tough pill to swallow for fans, especially after losing Mitchell Robinson to the Boston Celtics already.
The Salary Cap Headache That Keeps On Giving
It feels like we’re reliving the same nightmare, doesn’t it? James Dolan has made it crystal clear to Leon Rose: the Knicks can compete, sure, but only if those salaries stay under that dreaded second apron. And what’s the consequence? We just lost a crucial screener and fair rebounder in Robinson during the offseason because of it. Now, the writing is on the wall for McBride. We had an extension deadline in mid-August if the team wanted him to settle for a cheaper deal. But, no surprise here, the young guard hasn’t signed. It just feels like a pattern emerging, and honestly, it’s frustrating to watch key pieces slip away.
Miles McBride’s Performance Demands More Than We’re Offering
Let’s talk about what we’re losing. James L. Edwards III from The Athletic laid it out perfectly: “Unless the two sides reach an agreement before the start of the season, it feels like we’re heading toward a departure just based on history… New York did great business in 2023 when it signed an unproven-but-talented McBride to a three-year, $13 million contract. The Knicks saw the development behind the scenes, and decision-makers figured they could get the second-round pick for a low price, while giving him some security. Since then, McBride has greatly outperformed this current contract.” He’s currently making just $3,956,523 for the 2026-27 season, ranking 300th among all players in the league by salary. When you look at guys in that same pay range, McBride has done way more, and he absolutely deserves a pay raise. His Per 36 projections for 2026-27 are bonkers: 15.5 points, .427 FG%, .400 3P%, 3.8 assists, and 3.6 rebounds! Those are projected career-high averages! He’s slated to outperform his deal yet again, and we’re just letting him walk. What are we doing?
This isn’t just a tough loss, it’s a huge missed opportunity to get some value back. Now, rebuilding squads like the Brooklyn Nets, Sacramento Kings, and Memphis Grizzlies are all eyeing him. Even teams looking for that final piece, like the Charlotte Hornets, could be in the running. We’re about to watch a talented player, who has clearly outplayed his contract, head off for nothing. The clock is ticking before the season starts, and unless something changes *fast*, get ready to see McBride in another jersey next year. Ugh.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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