Is Jalen Brunson Playing Tonight vs Pacers? Knicks’ Injury Report, Depth Chart For Eastern Conference Semi-finals Game 3

The New York Knicks continue their onslaught, surprising everyone with their efficiency. Having gone against the Sixers head-to-head, the Knicks have scattered Tyrese Haliburton and Co. like ninepins in the first two games of the Eastern Conference Semifinals. Game 3 is scheduled for 7:00 PM ET at Gainbridge FieldHouse as the Pacers play host to Jalen Brunson and Co.

Going into the third game, the ‘Railroad City’ has a piece of good news. New York’s injury report has dropped and a key piece has joined the injury report. The Pacers’ beat writer, Scott Agness, tweeted, “Knicks forward OG Anunoby (left hamstring strain) has been ruled out for Game 3 in Indy on Friday, joining Randle, Bogdanovic and Robinson.”

“And Jalen Brunson is officially questionable with right foot soreness.“

OG Anunoby’s latest injury has put the shorthanded Knicks in quite a perilous position. The 26-year-old forward sustained the hamstring strain in the third quarter of the previous game. Anunoby has been crucial for the New York team, especially when their star guard is off the floor. Although his injury was initially thought to be just a cramp, even as they said it, the team knew it would be more than that. So far, all we know is that he has been ruled out for Game 3. Whether he will join the sidelined trio is yet to be confirmed.

As for Jalen Brunson, the first-time All-Star had exited the court shortly with a right foot injury. He returned to the floor in the second half after missing the second quarter entirely. Post-game saw Brunson dismiss it with a casual “I’m fine.” 

As per the injury update above, clearly, not fine. Keeping this in mind, let’s take a look at the depth chart of the ‘Big Apple’.

The depth chart of the New York Knicks

Despite being questionable for the third game of the conference semifinals, the chances of Brunson not suiting up are less. Tyrese Haliburton (lower back spasms) has been on the injury report regularly. But come game time, he has taken the floor. After all, that’s what led to the controversial Josh Hart shove in Game 2 that had coach Rick Carlisle thoroughly upset. The 2x All-Star is on the Pacers injury report for the sixth straight game now.

Going back to our depth chart, here is the table.

If Jalen Brunson does end up not playing, starting Miles McBride is one way to go. Precious Achiuwa could be the starting power forward while Jericho Sims remains the backup center. Well, tonight’s matchup at Indiana will be a game-changer, indeed. This can either give the Knicks a 3-0 advantage or it will be the opening that the Pacers have desperately been looking for.

After all, the ‘Railroad City’ has never lost a home game since mid-March.