Knicks Star Suffers Devastating Injury Against Magic

McBride's Performance Before Injury

Before his devastating exit, McBride logged 21 minutes of action, contributing four points on a perfect 2-for-2 from the free-throw line. He also recorded one rebound and two assists while helping the Knicks maintain their lead against the undermanned Magic squad. McBride has been a vital rotation piece for New York this season, often stepping into the starting lineup when needed.​

The timing of McBride's injury couldn't be worse for the Knicks, who are already dealing with significant roster depletion. Karl-Anthony Towns was ruled out for Sunday's contest with left calf tightness, marking his first absence of the season despite playing through multiple injuries earlier in the campaign.

Landry Shamet remains sidelined with a right shoulder sprain sustained against Orlando in late November, facing at least a four-week absence. This marks the same shoulder Shamet dislocated during the preseason, creating additional concern about long-term recovery.​

Magic Also Hit By Injury Bug

Orlando suffered its own devastating setback when Franz Wagner exited with a lower left leg injury in the first quarter. Wagner landed awkwardly after being fouled hard by Ariel Hukporti on an alley-oop attempt and immediately grabbed his knee area.

The Magic announced Wagner would be re-evaluated upon their return to Orlando, with the 24-year-old forward averaging 23.4 points and 6.2 rebounds per game this season.

Despite the injury adversity, the Knicks maintained their composure and control throughout the contest at Madison Square Garden. New York entered as slight favorites and looked poised to avenge their only home loss of the season, which came against this same Magic squad on November 12.

The Knicks' nine-point cushion heading into the final period suggested they were on track to secure an important conference victory.​