Jalen Brunson Injury Update: Knicks Star Faces Extended Recovery Time After Ankle Sprain in Lakers Game

The New York Knicks revealed that All-Star Jalen Brunson is out for at least two weeks due to a right ankle sprain. Brunson got injured during the Knicks’ close game against the Los Angeles Lakers, which ended with a 113-109 loss. The injury happened when he drove to the basket and landed awkwardly after stepping on Lakers guard Austin Reaves’ foot.

Although Brunson managed to shoot his free throws, he had to leave the game afterward and didn’t return. His absence is a significant setback for a Knicks team competing near the top of the Eastern Conference standings. Since joining the team in 2022, Brunson has been a key player in their success, making this injury even more impactful. He will miss at least the next seven games, including a critical matchup against the Los Angeles Clippers.

Thankfully, the upcoming schedule isn’t too daunting for the Knicks. Of their next seven opponents, only three have winning records: the Warriors, Kings, and Clippers. However, with the Milwaukee Bucks closing in just 3.5 games behind, every game counts as the season progresses. The Bucks are on a hot streak, winning 8 of their last 10 games, creating a competitive race for the No. 3 spot in the East.

After the Lakers game, Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau praised Brunson’s toughness. “His mental toughness is through the roof,” Thibodeau said. “It doesn’t surprise me how he played. He keeps battling.” Despite this resilience, losing the team’s leading scorer will put pressure on other players. Thibodeau might have to rely more on Karl-Anthony Towns for offense, but finding someone who can fully replace Brunson’s role as a creator is a challenge. Josh Hart described the injury as a “bummer,” emphasizing its impact on the team.

The Knicks heavily depend on their starters, and with Brunson out, they’ll need to find a way to fill his 35+ minutes per game. The good news is that the injury wasn’t worse. Still, the Knicks will need to adapt quickly as they navigate the next couple of weeks without their star guard.

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