Miles McBride is easing the Jalen Brunson Knicks burden
Miles McBride is providing crucial support to Jalen Brunson during the Knicks' playoff run, helping ease the offensive and defensive load as the duo posts a standout net rating of 29.5 together in the 2026 postseason. After a slow start due to injury, McBride has regained form with strong performances in Games 3 and 4 against the Hawks. His ability to handle ball-handling duties and defend at a high level allows Brunson to operate more efficiently. The pairing has become a key factor in New York's success during their first-round series.
- ▪Jalen Brunson and Miles McBride have a net rating of 29.5 when playing together in the 2026 playoffs, the highest among top two-man lineups in the first round.
- ▪McBride recorded 16 and 13 points in Games 3 and 4, shooting 8-for-16 from 3-point range, while logging increased minutes.
- ▪McBride has taken over late-game minutes from Mikal Bridges, providing better offensive spacing and defensive versatility.
- ▪His ball-handling ability allows Brunson to avoid full-court pressure and conserve energy by receiving the ball in the half-court.
- ▪Coach Mike Brown praised Brunson’s screen-setting and McBride’s quickness as key elements in their effective guard-guard actions.
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NBA New York Knicks Miles McBride is easing the Jalen Brunson Knicks burden By Jared Schwartz Published April 28, 2026, 8:24 p.m. ET The numbers jump off the page. When Jalen Brunson and Miles McBride play together, the Knicks often thrive. Entering Tuesday’s Game 5 clash against the Hawks at Madison Square Garden, the Knicks had a net rating of 29.5 points when Brunson and McBride were on the floor together this postseason. The Knicks have been at their best when Jalen Brunson (left) and Mile McBride are on the court together. Getty Images That net rating was the highest among the top 12 two-man pairings with the most minutes played across the first four games of this first-round series.
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