OKLAHOMA CITY — Deuce McBride’s return didn’t last long.
The Knicks guard, who returned from a 28-game absence Sunday following sports hernia surgery, appeared to hurt his groin area in the third quarter against the Thunder.
He dove for a loose ball, knocked into OKC’s Lu Dort, and limped to the locker room.
The Knicks said he’s being evaluated and is doubtful to return in Sunday’s game.
Before the game, coach Mike Brown said he’s excited about the “nice punch” McBride would provide.
“Deuce was one of our best on-ball defenders, especially when it comes to the pick and roll. He’s quick and he’s strong, gets over screens well. He’ll get into the ball,” Brown said. “Obviously he shoots the ball from range at a high level. He can go get his shot, too. And then he’s versatile in terms of playing on the ball, off the ball. He gives us a nice punch.”
Brown also said McBride was operating under a minutes restriction in OKC, where the backup guard went scoreless on three shots in 11 minutes.
