The Knicks got a fresh injury update on OG Anunoby ahead of Game 2, and while the early word is encouraging, it still comes with enough concern to make New York uneasy. The defending wing remains one of the most important pieces of the Knicks’ playoff rotation, and any sign that his ankle is not fully right could matter in a tight series.
New York Knicks’ OG Anunoby Probable, but Not Necessarily Fully Fine
According to Stefan Bondy: “OG Anunoby (left ankle sprain) is listed as probable for tomorrow’s Game 2. Mike Brown said Anunoby went through practice today and is ready to go.”
Mike Brown said Anunoby went through practice today and is ready to go.
Given how awkward the ankle looked on the Game 1 sequence when he appeared to roll it and Landry Shamet checked in, it is fair to wonder whether the issue could be worse than it first appeared.
Could Anunoby be limited?
Anunoby could still get some minutes on the floor, but the real issue is how good will he be. If he’s even a little bit restricted, the Knicks probably will have to handle his time carefully and depend more on the next wing player in the draft.
Shamet is without a doubt the one who can take up more minutes on the outside, and news related to the Knicks’ rotation has highlighted him as a player who can either start or take up bigger defensive roles if Anunoby’s condition is a problem.
Bridges has to raise his level now
GettyKnicks Vs Hawks Playoffs
That’s why Mikal Bridges becomes so crucial. He had 11 points on 5-of-9 shooting in 32 minutes, plus two rebounds and one assist in Knicks’s 113-102 win.
New York still received huge performances from Jalen Brunson (28 points), Karl-Anthony Towns (25 points), and OG Anunoby (18 points), but if Anunoby is restricted again, the Knicks will rely on Bridges to shoulder more of the scoring load and reach into the range of high teens.
What the Knicks must do
GettyKnicks Drop OG Anunoby Update Before Game 2
If Anunoby cannot fully go, Landry Shamet is the clearest candidate to absorb extra wing minutes, especially after playing 18 minutes off the bench in Game 1. That would make Bridges’ role even bigger on both ends, because New York cannot afford a quiet night from him if one of its best perimeter defenders is compromised.
A more assertive Bridges would also help the Knicks keep the offense flowing and avoid leaning too heavily on Brunson and Towns.
Game 2 of the series will be played on Monday night, April 20, at Madison Square Garden, with the Knicks enjoying home-court advantage once again. New York looks to build a 2-0 lead to end this series as early as possible.
Knicks Hit With Unexpected OG Anunoby Injury Update