Jose Alvarado is taking a patient approach as his role with the New York Knicks continues to shift late in the season.
Speaking before Monday’s game against the Atlanta Hawks, Alvarado addressed his current standing in the rotation after seeing limited minutes in recent games.
“Me, I’m good. I’m chilling. I’m ready for my moment,” Alvarado said, via Newsday’s Steve Popper. “I’m ready for my name to get called whenever it is.”
Alvarado added that his mindset has remained steady despite the change in opportunity.
“This is my home team. I love the organization, I love the Knicks. So just whenever it’s Jose’s time, whenever that time is, I’m ready.”
McBride’s Return Limits Opportunities for Alvarado
GettyMiles McBride of the New York Knicks brings the ball up court around Luguentz Dort of the Oklahoma City Thunder.
The change in Alvarado’s role comes as the Knicks continue to adjust their guard rotation with players returning to full health.
Against Atlanta, Miles McBride handled backup point guard duties, joining a second unit that also featured Landry Shamet and Jordan Clarkson in the backcourt alongside center Mitchell Robinson.
Head coach Mike Brown recently pointed to McBride and Shamet as key options off the bench as the team evaluates its rotation heading into the postseason.
“I went with the combination of Landry and Deuce as the backup point guards,” Brown said after their 136-96 win over Chicago on Saturday. “We got those two guys out there and want to take a look at that.”
Jose Alvarado’s Earlier Impact Highlighted Larger Role
Before the rotation tightened, Alvarado played a meaningful role during a stretch when the Knicks were managing injuries in the backcourt.
He averaged 6.2 points, 3.7 assists and 1.0 steals in 16.4 minutes per game across his first 25 appearances with the team.
Alvarado provided a spark in several key moments, including a comeback effort against the Houston Rockets, where his defensive pressure and playmaking helped shift momentum.
He also delivered in a spot start against the Indiana Pacers, finishing with 16 points and 10 assists in a double-double performance that underscored his ability to handle increased responsibility.
Knicks Prioritize Depth and Health Ahead of Playoffs
With the postseason approaching, the Knicks are prioritizing lineup combinations built around a healthier roster.
McBride’s return, along with Shamet’s availability, has increased competition for minutes in the backcourt, leaving fewer opportunities for Alvarado in the current rotation.
Brown acknowledged Alvarado’s contributions during a stretch when the team needed depth.
“Jose’s done a fantastic job for us,” Brown said. “We haven’t had a lot of healthy guards, and Jose stepped in and did a nice job.”
Jose Alvarado Staying Ready as Knicks Rotation Evolves
GettyJose Alvarado of the New York Knicks gestures against the Philadelphia 76ers in the third quarter at Xfinity Mobile Arena on February 11, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Despite the reduced role, Alvarado’s approach has not changed.
His measured reaction reflects his veteran leadership and his focus on staying prepared as the Knicks continue to evaluate rotations ahead of the playoffs.
New York has already secured another strong regular-season finish, including its third consecutive 50-win season, and is now focused on refining its lineup for a postseason run.
As those decisions continue to evolve, Alvarado remains ready if his number is called.
Knicks Guard Jose Alvarado Addresses Role After Falling Out of Rotation