Knicks Get Boost with Jose Alvarado's Debut Before Celtics Game

The newly acquired point guard is expected to provide secondary ball-handling and defense for New York.

Feb. 8, 2026 at 11:55am

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Jose Alvarado, the point guard recently acquired by the New York Knicks from the New Orleans Pelicans, is no longer listed as injured and is expected to make his debut against the Boston Celtics. Alvarado's presence is a major boost for the Knicks, who have been dealing with a series of player injuries, including questionable status for key players like OG Anunoby, Josh Hart, and Karl-Anthony Towns ahead of the game.

Why it matters

Alvarado's addition gives the Knicks more secondary ball-handling and defensive options, which are crucial against a tough Celtics team that the Knicks will be facing. His ability to knock down corner threes and create off the dribble adds another dimension to New York's second unit.

The details

Alvarado has averaged 7.9 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists with the Pelicans this season, shooting 41.8% from the field and 36.3% from 3-point range. The Knicks acquired him to replace the absence of Miles McBride, who is out for an extended period after core muscle surgery.

  • Alvarado was initially listed as "Out - Not With Team" on the Feb. 6 injury report, as he was transitioning from New Orleans.
  • Alvarado is no longer listed as injured and is expected to make his Knicks debut against the Celtics on February 8, 2026.

The players

Jose Alvarado

A point guard recently acquired by the New York Knicks from the New Orleans Pelicans.

Mike Brown

The head coach of the New York Knicks.

Miles McBride

A Knicks player who is out for an extended period after core muscle surgery.

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What’s next

The Knicks and Celtics will face off on February 8, 2026, in a matchup between two teams with almost identical records. The Celtics are riding a five-game winning streak and will look to make it six in a row, while the Knicks are coming off an eight-game winning streak that was recently snapped.

The takeaway

Alvarado's debut for the Knicks comes at a crucial time, as the team has been dealing with a series of player injuries. His addition provides the Knicks with much-needed secondary ball-handling and defensive options, which could be the difference-maker against a tough Celtics team.