New York Knicks fans’ hearts skipped a beat when OG Anunoby exited with an apparent hamstring injury in Game 2 of the team’s semifinals series against the Philadelphia 76ers.
New York received good news when Anunoby’s injury was described as a strain that would leave him day-to-day. Anunoby missed the Knicks’ following two games, but the team coasted to victory in each contest on their way to a four-game sweep, reducing the desperation to rush Anunoby back.
By making short work of the 76ers, the Knicks bought ample time for Anunoby to work his way back to one-hundred percent before returning to the court. And according to the latest update on their talented forward, the Knicks’ plan is coming to fruition.
Anunoby participated in Wednesday’s practice, according to head coach Mike Brown. While he was held out of live contact in scrimmages, Anunoby is fully expected to play in Game 1, according to SNY’s Ian Begley.
“Barring setbacks, Anunoby will play in Game 1,” said Begley. “I feel very comfortable saying that, just because of where this thing was in the day or two days after it happened. No reason for him to play, obviously, Sunday, they’re up 3-0 and could close the series out to give him rest.
“And now he’ll have plenty of time to rest here and get whatever he needs to get back. … He’ll be ready to go Game 1, whether it’s Sunday or Tuesday, barring some unforeseen setback.”
Anunoby’s injury occurred on May 6, one week ago today. The earliest that the Eastern Conference Finals could begin is Sunday, May 17, which would give Anunoby an 11-day rest. If the Detroit Pistons-Cleveland Cavaliers series goes to seven games, the ECF will start on Tuesday, May 19, giving Anunoby 13 days.
All is well in the land of New York Knicks basketball.
