Miles “Deuce” McBride is heading into the 2026-27 season as the longest-tenured New York Knick, fresh off averaging a career-high 12.0 points and shooting a ridiculous 41.3% from three last season. The man has been an absolute spark plug, a critical piece for the reigning champs, and now, his future with the team is looking incredibly murky.
Deuce Earned His Payday, No Question
Let’s be real, Deuce has been balling out. He’s been an integral part of this team’s rise, loving New York and his teammates. The dude literally outplayed his current contract , a three-year, $13 million deal , by a significant amount. SNY’s Ian Begley didn’t mince words, saying, “Miles McBride has definitely earned a raise.” No kidding! You see him out there hustling, hitting big shots, and bringing that championship energy. It’s a no-brainer that he’s earned more, and in a perfect world, those conversations would produce a multi-year extension. Both sides still want to make it happen, which is a good sign.
The Dreaded Second Apron Dilemma is Real
Here’s where it gets complicated, and honestly, frustrating. The Knicks’ financial situation is tight, real tight. Owner James Dolan has reportedly given a mandate: absolutely no exceeding the NBA’s $221 million second apron this season. That’s a brutal constraint when you have a guy like McBride who’s proven his worth. With potential extensions looming for big names like Karl-Anthony Towns, Josh Hart, and eventually Jalen Brunson, the money committed to New York’s starting lineup is only going to skyrocket. Begley put it bluntly: “So there isn’t much financial wiggle room for a McBride extension.” It looks like McBride is set to absorb most of the collateral damage here, and that just stings.
To Trade or Not To Trade: That’s the Question
Look, nobody wants to think about this, but it’s the elephant in the room. If an extension can’t be worked out because of these financial gymnastics, the harsh reality is that trading Deuce before next year’s deadline becomes a very real possibility. He’s arguably one of the league’s most valuable sixth-man trade chips, and you know teams would be lining up to snag him. Begley said, “We’re certainly not there yet,” but then dropped the cold truth: “But logic tells you that’s where things could be headed.” For now, McBride is entering the season with New Yo. This whole situation is a massive headache for the reigning champs and their fans, and it puts a huge question mark on the future of this championship core.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Posting and Toasting.
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