NBA News NBA News, Match Reports and Updates
NEW YORK (AP) — Jalen Brunson shared on Sunday that he’s experiencing improved mobility and sensation in his sprained right ankle, maintaining his hopes of returning to the New York Knicks before the playoff season kicks off.
He sat out his 12th consecutive game as the Knicks faced Portland, leaving the All-Star point guard uncertain about his exact return date. Nevertheless, he remains optimistic about making a comeback within the remaining two weeks of the regular season.
“Realistically, my goal is to play before the playoffs begin,” Brunson stated. “It’s important for me to have some game experience prior to that critical stretch, but my primary concern is ensuring I’m fully recovered.”
Brunson sustained his injury on March 6 in Los Angeles during a defeat against the Lakers. On Sunday, he addressed reporters for the first time since the injury and indicated that he can sprint and has received clearance for basketball-related activities.
However, he is not yet prepared to participate in actual games. The Knicks have eight matches left after Sunday, with the regular season concluding on April 13.
He aspires to be entirely healthy prior to his return but is open to playing if permitted by the team’s medical staff, even if he isn’t at 100%.
“While I want to feel completely fit, a lot of this is also a mental aspect—trusting my body in everything I do,” Brunson explained. “So, it’s just a matter of having a discussion about it.”
Despite being without their leader, the Knicks have managed fairly well, entering the matchup with a 6-5 record since Brunson’s absence, securing them a playoff position in third place in the Eastern Conference, even with backup point guards Deuce McBride and Cam Payne sidelined due to injuries.
“We’ve maintained all along that it’s not possible to individually make up for Jalen; we must work together as a team,” coach Tom Thibodeau commented, “and I believe we’ve accomplished that.”
Brunson has participated in 61 games so far and needs to play in four more to qualify for postseason awards. When asked about the significance of this, he replied, “Individually, yes, it matters, but I want to ensure my health is my top priority before anything else.”
Last postseason, injuries devastated the Knicks’ chances, with Brunson himself sidelined during their loss in the Eastern Conference semifinals. This time, however, they may have caught a break; Brunson’s injury seems less severe than initially feared after his fall following a basket drive, allowing him ample time to recover for the crucial upcoming games.
“Of course, there’s always concern about the worst-case scenario, and thankfully it turned out not to be that severe. The frustrating part is knowing I’m improving but not yet at my desired level,” Brunson reflected. “However, as I’ve said, day by day, I feel myself getting better, and I hope that progress continues.”
