The New York Knicks might have a lot to worry about.
Jalen Brunson went down with an injury scare late into Wednesday’s action against the Orlando Magic. The veteran guard was down for a bit, but managed to get up and walk off the court on his own power. However, he did have a noticeable limp and went straight back to the Knicks’ locker room at Madison Square Garden.
According to James Edwards of The Athletic, the Knicks have not officially reported an update on Brunson, other than the head coach, Mike Brown, claiming it was just a rolled ankle after the game.
But the fact that Brunson was reportedly seen in a walking boot and using crutches places the Knicks in an uncomfortable position until they get further clarity on Brunson’s official diagnosis.
Amid the Knicks’ 124-107 loss against the Magic, Brunson checked in for 37 minutes. He had a productive night by making 43 percent of his shots from the field, scoring 31 points. He dished out six assists and came down with three rebounds.
Heading into Wednesday’s action, Brunson has made 10 appearances for the Knicks so far. Making 47 percent of his shots from the field and hitting on 37 percent of his threes (8.0 attempts), the star guard has been averaging 27.7 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 6.6 assists.
Considering Brunson has been an All-Star for the Knicks over the past two seasons, he’s a critical presence. Since joining the team ahead of the 2022-2023 season, Brunson has played in 210 games over the past three years. When he’s been off the court for the Knicks throughout that stretch, New York has won just under 40 percent of its games (135-203).
The initial reports coming out of Madison Square Garden certainly generate some worry about Brunson’s ankle, but the Knicks’ star will have to undergo further testing before the team’s medical staff can put a possible timeline in place for his return.
For all the latest NBA news and rumors, head over to Newsweek Sports.