The New York Knicks received their most encouraging injury update yet on OG Anunoby, with coach Mike Brown revealing Friday that the standout forward participated in full practice for the first time since suffering a hamstring injury.
Anunoby’s return to full activity signals growing optimism that he will be available for Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals as the Knicks await their opponent.
OG Anunoby Injury Update: Full Practice Signals Possible Return
“He practiced today in full,” Brown said following Friday’s session, via SNY. “Anytime anybody is able to do anything like that is always encouraging. At the end of the day, I’m waiting and letting the medical group tell me what he can do. Everything we did today, he did.”
The update marks a significant step forward for Anunoby, who has been sidelined for more than a week with a right hamstring strain suffered in Game 2 against the Philadelphia 76ers on May 6.
Video of Anunoby shooting free throws at practice had circulated earlier, though questions remained when he was not seen in full team gear. Brown’s comments clarified his status, offering the clearest indication yet that a return is imminent.
Knicks Expect OG Anunoby Return for Eastern Conference Finals
There is increasing belief across the organization that Anunoby will be ready for the conference finals opener if he avoids any setbacks.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, there is an expectation Anunoby will be available for Game 1.
“There is an expectation that he will be able to play in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals,” Charania said earlier this week. “The expectation and hope is that he will be a go.”
The Knicks are scheduled to open the Eastern Conference finals either May 17 or May 19, depending on the outcome of the Cleveland Cavaliers-Detroit Pistons semifinal series.
Knicks Benefit From Extended Rest Ahead of Conference Finals
The uncertainty in the Cavaliers-Pistons series could work in New York’s favor.
Cleveland holds a 3-2 lead after a 117-113 overtime win in Game 5, with Game 6 set for Friday night. A Game 7, if necessary, would be played Sunday in Detroit.
If Cleveland closes out the series in Game 6, the Knicks will host Game 1 on May 17. If Detroit forces a Game 7, the start shifts to May 19, giving New York additional recovery time.
That extended rest has allowed the Knicks to prioritize health, particularly for key players like Anunoby.
OG Anunoby’s Impact Key to Knicks Playoff Run
Anunoby has been a critical piece in New York’s postseason surge, providing elite two-way production.
He is averaging 21.4 points per game in the playoffs while shooting 53.8% from 3-point range and contributing across the board defensively.
While stars like Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns have drawn attention, Anunoby’s versatility has been central to the Knicks’ success.
Knicks Ride Historic Momentum Into Eastern Conference Finals
New York enters the conference finals on a franchise-best seven-game playoff winning streak.
After dropping two games early in the first round against the Atlanta Hawks, the Knicks adjusted their approach and have not lost since.
Their 19.4-point average margin of victory through two rounds is the largest in the NBA playoffs since the league expanded to 16 teams in 1984.
With Anunoby now back in full practice, the Knicks appear poised to enter the next round close to full strength — a development that could further strengthen their championship push.
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