OG Anunoby participated in parts of the New York Knicks’ practice on Wednesday but did not join live drills, a sign of cautious progress in his recovery from a right hamstring injury [1, 2]. Knicks coach Mike Brown said, “When we went live, he didn’t go live,” but added optimism about Anunoby’s status, noting, “Any time anybody is able to do stuff, you're encouraged. But again, that's what they told me he could do today. I'll wait until Friday to see what they tell me.” [1, 2]
Anunoby has been sidelined for about a week after tweaking his right hamstring late in Game 2 of the Knicks' first-round series against the Philadelphia 76ers on May 6. He exited that game in the final minutes and missed the last two games of New York’s sweep over Philadelphia [1, 2].
The Knicks remain optimistic Anunoby will be available for Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals, which could begin as soon as Sunday, May 24, pending no setbacks in his recovery [1, 2]. Anunoby is the team’s second-leading scorer this postseason behind Jalen Brunson, averaging 21.4 points and 7.5 rebounds per game [1, 2]. He also contributes 1.9 steals per game on 62% shooting overall and 53% from three-point range in the playoffs [2].
Coach Brown said Anunoby did shoot and perform individual workouts during practice Wednesday, even if he did not participate fully in live drills [1, 2]. The Knicks are currently awaiting the winner of the Detroit Pistons and Cleveland Cavaliers series, which is tied 2-2 with Game 5 scheduled Wednesday night, May 13 [1]. That outcome will determine their Eastern Conference Finals opponent.
The Knicks hope to have Anunoby back at full strength as the playoffs continue. His availability for Game 1 will be determined by further evaluation Friday, with the team watching closely for any setbacks [2].
