LOS ANGELES — Deuce McBride’s first crack as Jalen Brunson’s replacement was a disappointment. He expects to be better. “I’ve been a point guard my whole life,” McBride said. “I’ll bounce back and we’ll figure it out.”

It’s time for New York’s big investment to begin paying dividends: The Knicks need Bridges to show up on offense in addition to his role as the team’s point of attack defender. He is averaging 17.2 points per game this season but has not been consistent in being an impactful offensive player. The Knicks will also need to up Towns’ usage.