The New York Knicks closed off their first-round playoffs matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers?in fashion.? They defeated the Cavs 4-1, going against the expectations of many people. Going into the second round of the playoffs, the Knicks lost their first game against the Miami Heat. However, they recovered quickly and registered a 111-105 win against the Heat in game 2, led by a 30-point dagger from Jalen Brunson. Amid reports of ankle injuries plaguing the 26-year-old star, a massive update has emerged before Game 3.
The Knicks roster had dark clouds looming over their heads after their star player Jalen Brunson picked up an ankle injury. Despite that, Brunson has been putting in great performances in every game.
Big Jalen Brunson update emerges
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Brunson has been crucial for the Knicks in more ways than one. The 26-year-old dropped 30 points in the last game with five rebounds and two assists. Even in game 1 when the Knicks lost, Brunson played his role in the team. In the forty minutes that he played, the youngster scored 25 points with five rebounds and seven assists. Needless to say, his presence adds a lot of value to the NY side.
However, the 2x NCAA champion is reeling with an ankle injury. Although he is not letting his injury be a hurdle in his game in any way, the problems that he is facing because of it are very noticeable.
A reporter asked Brunson after Game 2, “How much of an issue did that give you throughout tonight’s game?” Brunson chuckled at first and after a fairly long pause, he answered the question. He said “A little bit. Just a little bit.”
A few days later, the Knicks star was again asked about his injuries during an interview. This time, he answered with conviction, stating his intention of being involved in game 3. “I would say I?m ready to go,” Brunson said. The former Mavs star added that if he can walk, he will consider himself available for the game.
Reporter: "We were all surprised to learn when you were put on the injury report with an ankle problem. How much of an issue did that give you throughout tonight's game?"
*brief pause and chuckle*
Jalen Brunson: "A little bit. Just a little bit." pic.twitter.com/UHKnybYt98
— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) May 3, 2023
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However, his coach, Tom Thibodeau showed a little hesitation in answering the same question.
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Jalen Brunson’s coach gives a vague statement on Brunson’s injury
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Coach Thibodeau agreed that this late in the season, the players are bound to get injured. Not that it is a prerequisite, Thibodeau said that the exhaustive nature of the season gets to some players. Although he said that despite injuries and issues, the players can reach down within to find something worth fighting. The Knicks coach said that after putting so much into the season, it’s obvious that the team would want to wrap things up in their favor.
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