Home/NBA

USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

The ongoing Game 2 Semifinals clash between the New York Knicks and the Indiana Pacers saw misfortune descend upon small forward OG Anunoby. As the night looked to be one of his best thanks to his performance, it soon turned out to be one of his worst after he sustained an injury after 28 minutes on the court. For fans who are expecting the player to return during this final minute of the fourth quarter, a follow-up update will not bring a smile to their faces.

‘The Athletic’ reporter Fred Katz provided the update that OG Anunoby is out for the entirety of the game after developing a ‘sore left hamstring’. There is no news on whether his absence will be marked for the upcoming games as well.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

 

Anunoby’s exit came barely a few minutes after the team’s lead scorer, Jalen Brunson, had exited during the first half after developing soreness in his left foot. Fortunately, he returned later and was able to conclude the game after playing for a total of 32 minutes.

The Knicks had entered the matchup in a precarious position. Three of the team’s lead scorers, Julius Randle, Mitchell Robinson, and Bojan Bogdanovic, had been declared out due to separate injuries. Furthermore, they had to play without Randle for 1.5 quarters and Anunoby during the 4. Thankfully, the latter had secured a good lead for his team prior to his exit, since he had already scored 28 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists within 28 minutes. This was the highest points total he secured after a 38-game gap. The highest since he recorded 29 points back in mid-December. This, along with Brunson and DiVincenzo’s combined 57 points, helped the franchise record their second consecutive playoff win at Madison Square Garden.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

OG Anunoby has been dealing with a string of Injuries throughout the 2023-24 NBA Season

This is not the first physical wound that the 26-year-old has had to deal with during the course of the ongoing tournament. Back in late February, the player did not allow himself to be available for a matchup against the Hornets after developing symptoms of right elbow inflammation. After additional diagnosis, the reason for the same was revealed to be irritation stemming from a bone spur. The recovery period that followed up in the aftermath forced the player to be absent for 18 consecutive games. Even after his return, there were still visible signs of discomfort being felt by the player while making use of his elbow.

Prior to this major injury, the player was diagnosed with bilateral leg muscle cramps back in December. Later, in December, the player would end up injuring his finger while attempting to lend a hand in household chores. Fortunately, both injuries were not as serious as the one that would come in late January.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

USA Today via Reuters

The New York Knicks are yet to provide an update on their small forward’s status after the 130-121 win. With just two more wins needed for them to advance to the tournament’s next stage, Anunoby’s availability can make all the difference.