Deuce McBride, the young and promising guard for the New York Knicks, has shown remarkable growth in his brief time in the NBA, positioning himself as a legitimate contender for the NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year award. Though McBride may not be a household name just yet, his work ethic, skill development, and on-court performance make it clear that he’s on the verge of making a significant impact. As the 2024-25 season approaches, McBride’s role is expected to expand, and the Knicks’ faith in him signals that he has the opportunity to rise as one of the league’s most valuable bench playe### The Growth
Selected by the Knicks in the second round of the 2021 NBA Draft (36th overall), McBride entered the league with the reputation of being a gritty defender with a high basketball IQ. In his early career, he often found himself bouncing between the G League and the NBA, but he used those experiences to refine his game. His defense has always been NBA-ready, but the growth in his offensive arsenal, particularly his shooting and playmaking, has set him apart from other young guards trying to carve out a role.
In his third year in the league, McBride has become more comfortable orchestrating the offense and finding his spots on the floor. His steady improvement, particularly as a three-point shooter and secondary ball-handler, has turned him into a reliable option for the Knicks off the bench. His ability to impact both ends of the floor makes him invaluable, and this versatility will be key in his pursuit of Sixth Man of the Year honors.
One of the major reasons why McBride has a clear path to contend for the Sixth Man of the Year is the increased role he is expected to play this season. With Derrick Rose no longer in New York and Immanuel Quickley stepping into a starting role more often, the Knicks’ bench production will rely heavily on McBride. Head coach Tom Thibodeau has a reputation for trusting players who hustle and defend, and McBride fits that mold perfectly. His ability to be a pest on the perimeter defensively, combined with his improved shot-making, means he’ll be asked to play significant minutes, especially in crucial stretches of games.
McBride’s growth as a leader will also play a role in his increased minutes. The Knicks’ bench unit will need someone who can set the tone defensively and keep the offense running smoothly when the starters rest, and McBride has shown that he can be that player. If he can maintain consistent production throughout the season, there’s no reason why he shouldn’t be in the conversation for the league’s top bench honor.
One of the hallmarks of past Sixth Man of the Year winners is their ability to provide instant offense. While McBride may not be a volume scorer like past winners such as Jamal Crawford or Lou Williams, his impact comes in a more well-rounded form. He is the type of player who can change the course of a game with his defense, often taking on the challenge of guarding the opposing team’s best perimeter player. He excels at picking up full-court pressure, forcing turnovers, and generating fast-break opportunities. His intensity on defense is contagious, and it often leads to energy-shifting plays that spark his team.
Offensively, McBride’s shot selection and efficiency have improved significantly. In limited action last season, he shot 36.6% from three-point range, a considerable jump from his rookie numbers. His ability to knock down open shots and create off the dribble is becoming more consistent, making him a dual threat when he’s on the floor. If McBride can continue to build on this offensive growth, he’ll become even more dangerous and give Thibodeau another reason to increase his role.
One of the unspoken criteria for the Sixth Man of the Year award is that it often goes to a player on a winning team. The Knicks are expected to be in the playoff hunt once again, and if McBride can contribute to their success, his case for the award will be even stronger. New York’s roster is filled with talented starters, but they’ll need consistent bench production to compete in a loaded Eastern Conference. If McBride can be a stabilizing force and a reliable contributor in the Knicks’ second unit, it will elevate his status around the league.
Deuce McBride may not be the flashiest player, but his combination of defensive tenacity, improving offensive skills, and increased opportunity puts him on a clear path to contend for the Sixth Man of the Year award. The Knicks are counting on him to anchor their bench and provide crucial minutes, and if he continues to develop at the pace he has shown, McBride could find himself as one of the most impactful reserve players in the league.
With his tireless work ethic and dedication to both ends of the floor, McBride has everything in place to become a key contributor for the Knicks and a legitimate candidate for Sixth Man of the Year.