The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly eyeing a potential trade for New York Knicks guard Miles “Deuce” McBride, following his impressive performance in the Knicks’ season opener against the Boston Celtics. McBride, a fourth-year player, caught the attention of Lakers GM Rob Pelinka after showcasing his scoring ability, despite New York’s struggles in the game.
While the Celtics tied an NBA record with 29 three-pointers, it was McBride’s four triples that stood out to Pelinka. The 24-year-old guard scored 22 points, shooting a remarkable 8-for-10 from the field, including 4-for-5 from beyond the arc. His confident shooting performance against the Celtics’ elite perimeter defenders—Derrick White, Jrue Holiday, and Jaylen Brown—demonstrated his ability to make difficult shots over taller opponents, a quality that could prove valuable to the Lakers.
McBride’s standout moment came when he entered the game and immediately knocked down a contested three-pointer. This sequence underscored his potential as a reliable scorer off the bench, capable of heating up quickly and providing instant offense. The Lakers, in need of consistent bench scoring, could see McBride as a perfect fit for their rotation.
The Lakers’ interest in adding depth to their lineup could lead to a possible trade offer for McBride, who is in the first year of a $13 million, three-year veteran extension with the Knicks. Adding McBride to a lineup featuring LeBron James and Anthony Davis could give him plenty of open looks, as defenses focus on the Lakers’ star duo. His ability to shoot from distance and play confidently under pressure makes him a natural target for a team like the Lakers, aiming to bolster their bench production.
While it remains to be seen if the Knicks are willing to part with McBride, his performance against the Celtics might have positioned him as one of the most intriguing young players available on the trade market. The Lakers’ front office will have to weigh the potential costs of a trade, but McBride’s scoring upside makes him a tempting option as they seek to compete in a competitive Western Conference.
The speculation surrounding McBride’s future could continue to grow if he maintains his early-season form. As the trade deadline approaches, it’s possible that the Lakers—and other teams—could pursue the young guard, recognizing his value as a sharpshooter with the ability to change the momentum of a game.