McBride returns to Knicks rotation after contract extension

Miles McBride appreciates the vote of confidence he received over the weekend in the form of a contract extension and an opportunity finally for more playing time.

McBride, who inked a three-year deal worth $13 million following Saturday’s trade to import OG Anunoby from Toronto, returned to the Knicks’ nine-man rotation in Monday’s 112-106 win over the Timberwolves.

“Honestly, it wasn’t really [expected] right now, but they came to me, or my agents, of course, and talked to us and told me about their belief in me,” McBride said about his new contract. “I was truly grateful, for the opportunity and for them believing in me and the chance to go out and prove it.

“It was pretty sudden, but I’m glad we got it done. It just shows their belief in me and my hard work really paid off. They were watching me, and I think I proved it.”

The third-year guard didn’t have much of an impact Monday with zero points in only seven minutes of action, but he will serve as Jalen Brunson’s primary backup at point guard with Immanuel Quickley shipped to Toronto with RJ Barrett in the Anunoby deal.

00:11 04:10Miles McBride returned to the Knicks’ rotation after signing a three-year extension.USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con

“Those guys helped me so much through my young career so far. They were great pieces for this team, so it’s gonna be sad to see them go,” McBride said. “But I definitely want to take advantage of this opportunity and make the most of it.”

Anunoby can become a free agent after this season, but he is represented by CAA, the agency Knicks president Leon Rose formerly ran.

He said he isn’t presently thinking about his contract situation.

“I just take it day by day. I let my agents handle that stuff,” Anunoby said. “When the time comes, figure it out, but I’m really excited to be here.”

Guard Malachi Flynn, who also was acquired in the trade, didn’t play due to an ankle injury.

Jericho Sims didn’t get off the bench for a second straight game since being cleared to play. He had missed the previous six games with a sprained ankle.