
Aside from losing Mitchell Robinson in free agency, the New York Knicks will commence their title defense with the same core that won them the championship this past season. However, it appears that they are at risk of losing another key player from their title run in the form of Miles McBride, whose extension talks with the team have apparently stalled.
McBride himself revealed that his discussions with the Knicks brass about his extension have been disappointing, seemingly not being satisfied with what New York has on the table, as he pointed out that he played through injuries and worked his way up from the bottom into being a key piece on a championship squad.
New York's ownership has been so eager to avoid the second luxury tax apron, which was already the reason why they could not afford Mitchell Robinson. Now, it appears that McBride is likely going to be the next casualty, which is a complete bummer.
McBride is arguably the most reliable player the Knicks have off the bench, especially during the regular season. He has made significant strides as an offensive threat, and with his defensive acuity, he has been emblematic of what New York basketball stands for right now.
If both camps cannot agree to terms on a contract extension, the Knicks will most likely be forced to explore trade opportunities for the guard. After all, they would not want him to walk away for nothing, and some team out there will definitely be interested in acquiring him and later signing him to a longer deal.
With this posturing, the Knicks are simply in a lose-lose situation. McBride is crucial to their cause, but because of the edict they are following from up top, they are cudgeled into being a stingy bunch, which is unfortunate as they had just won the title.
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