Deuce McBride’s potential return date will get NY fans excited

The New York Knicks have been on the rise lately, currently sitting in third place in the Eastern Conference, but have a real chance to unseat the Boston Celtics for second place. The Knicks have played the last portion of the schedule without Miles McBride, who is sidelined after sports hernia surgery.

Recently, Knicks insider James L. Edwards III provided an update on McBride's status, which should get New York fans excited.

"I wouldn't be surprised if Deuce McBride returns Sunday against OKC," Edwards III, formerly of the Ax, reported on Twitter.

It will certainly be a welcome sight for Knicks fans to have McBride back in the lineup as soon as possible. When healthy, the former West Virginia star provides New York with elite outside shooting, solid on-ball defense and the ability to facilitate play for his teammates.

The Knicks have largely been operating without a consistent backup point guard behind Jalen Brunson in recent weeks, as Tyler Kolek hasn't seen much playing time after a midseason bounce. However, McBride is projected to return to his normal workload before the playoffs, which are scheduled to begin next month.

Meanwhile, the Knicks have a big game on the road against the Charlotte Hornets on Thursday evening. The Hornets have been one of the hottest teams in the NBA over the past few months, emerging from NBA purgatory and looking like a real threat to scare a potential playoff opponent, should they reach that stage.

New York, led by rookie standout Kon Nueppel and former All-Star point guard LaMelo Ball, will have to do its best to guard the Hornets' range of three-point shooters.

Tipoff between the Knicks and Hornets is scheduled for 7:00 pm ET from Charlotte.