Five Data-Driven Reasons Why Miles “Deuce” McBride Should Start for the Knicks!

The New York Knicks are entering a new era under head coach Mike Brown, who has made one thing clear from the start: the team needs to play fast. If that’s the vision, there is a strong case for inserting Miles “Deuce” McBride into the starting lineup.

Deuce” McBride of the New York Knicks, wearing the team’s blue pinstripe uniform with number 2, stands on the court with a fierce, determined expression, fists clenched, as fans and coaches cheer passionately in the background.

This isn't just fan enthusiasm; the numbers from last season, particularly during the playoffs, demonstrate why McBride deserves this opportunity. Here are five reasons, backed by data:

1. Best Plus-Minus in the Playoffs

In the 2025 playoffs, McBride posted the highest plus-minus of any player in the Knicks' rotation, finishing at +33. When he was on the court, the Knicks outscored their opponents more than with any other player. This impact stemmed from his defensive tenacity, timely shot-making, and ability to fit seamlessly into multiple lineups.

2. Fits Mike Brown’s Pace-First Vision

Mike Brown has publicly emphasized his desire for the Knicks to push the tempo and create offense from aggressive defense (NBA.com). McBride checks these boxes:

• Full-court ball pressure to disrupt opponents.

• Quick offensive reads in transition.

• Reliable catch-and-shoot ability early in possessions.

Starting McBride ensures that the Knicks set the pace from the opening tip.

Buy Me

Deuce” McBride of the New York Knicks, wearing the team’s blue pinstripe uniform with number 2, stands on the court with a fierce, determined expression, fists clenched, as fans and coaches cheer passionately in the background.

3. Rebounding Trade-Off

If McBride starts over Josh Hart, the Knicks would lose one of the NBA's elite rebounding wings. In the 2025 playoffs, Josh Hart averaged 8.8 rebounds per game (RPG), while McBride averaged only 0.4 RPG.

With OG Anunoby playing power forward and Mikal Bridges at small forward, both are below average rebounders for their positions (PF league average: ~6.5 RPG, SF: ~5.5 RPG). Hart's absence on the glass would be more noticeable, but having Karl-Anthony Towns at center and strong team rebounding principles could help offset this gap enough to justify McBride’s other contributions.

4. Improved Floor Spacing

McBride shot 37.3% from three in the 2025 playoffs on 3.1 attempts per game (Basketball Reference), forcing defenders to respect him from beyond the arc. While Hart is valuable in many ways, he can be left open during cold stretches.

A lineup featuring Brunson, McBride, Bridges, Anunoby, and Towns would include four strong perimeter threats, opening up driving lanes and maximizing Towns' pick-and-pop game.

5. Elevated Perimeter Defense

McBride is the Knicks' top on-ball guard defender. According to NBA.com player tracking data, he consistently forced contested shots and limited primary ball handlers in the postseason.

Pairing McBride with Bridges and Anunoby on the wings gives New York elite perimeter coverage, creating a defensive trio capable of generating turnovers and fueling the fast breaks that Mike Brown envisions.

The Bottom Line

McBride's playoff impact, defensive value, and fit with a pace-first philosophy make him a legitimate candidate for the starting lineup. While the loss of Hart's rebounding is significant — especially with OG and Bridges taking on larger roles on the glass — the benefits in spacing, defensive pressure, and tempo could outweigh this drawback.

If the Knicks want to embrace Brown's vision from the start fully, it might be time to give Deuce McBride the starting role.