The New York Knicks have navigated recent games with just one-fifth of their regular starters due to a spate of injuries. However, there’s a glimmer of hope on the horizon, as vital team members show promising signs of recovery with NBA playoff seeding intensifying in importance.
OG Anunoby is making significant strides toward rejoining the team on the court, having engaged in contact drills and participated in five-on-five sessions, according to head coach Tom Thibodeau.
While Thibodeau described Anunoby’s condition as “day-to-day,” he also mentioned that Anunoby hasn’t received the green light for game action just yet. The forward is in the process of coming back from minor elbow surgery, with his last appearance dating back to January 27.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby, New York Knicks Updates
In another positive development for the Knicks, Jalen Brunson was active in most of Thursday’s practice session. However, Thibodeau indicated uncertainty regarding Brunson’s availability for the upcoming Friday game against the Orlando Magic, but he was later revealed as available to play. Brunson has been sidelined with a knee contusion sustained during a clash with the Cleveland Cavaliers this past Sunday.
The absence of Brunson, Anunoby, Julius Randle, and Mitchell Robinson has left the Knicks depleted, a situation that was evident in their recent loss to the Atlanta Hawks. The potential return of these key players could provide the much-needed boost the Knicks are seeking.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby, New York Knicks Updates
Thibodeau shared his approach to gauging a player’s readiness for return, saying, “Just see how he responds the next day (after a practice), the doctor clears him, then he can go.” This cautious yet hopeful stance underlines the team’s desire to ensure players are fully fit before stepping back onto the court.
As the Knicks look to regain their full strength, the focus remains on the health and recovery of their players. With the playoffs on the horizon, the timely return of Anunoby and Brunson could play a crucial role in shaping the Knicks’ postseason ambitions.
