New York Knicks All-Star guard Jalen Brunson could be sidelined for an extended period after suffering a right ankle injury during overtime in the team’s 113-109 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers. Coach Tom Thibodeau confirmed that Brunson is still being examined by the medical staff, but his current status remains uncertain.
Brunson, who ranks seventh in scoring and eighth in assists in the league, rolled his ankle after landing on the foot of Lakers guard Austin Reaves while driving to the basket. Despite the injury, Brunson stayed in the game to make both free throws and tie the score at 107 before eventually heading to the locker room.
Brunson’s absence could come at a critical time for the Knicks, who are currently on a five-game West Coast trip and need him to lead their charge against tough opponents like the Clippers, the Timberwolves, and the Warriors. The team will have to rely on backup players to fill the void left by Brunson’s injury.
“We expect [Brunson] to be out for a little bit,” forward Josh Hart said. “His mental toughness is through the roof, and it doesn’t surprise me the way he played the whole game.”
The Knicks’ focus now shifts to finding alternative solutions to overcome Brunson’s absence, as coach Thibodeau emphasized the importance of grit and resilience in the face of adversity. With Brunson out, it will be a challenge for New York to maintain its Eastern Conference-leading performance.
Source: https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44146328/knicks-say-next-man-jalen-brunson-rolls-ankle