The New York Knicks are one step away from the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999, but a cloud of uncertainty hangs over the team as they prepare for the Eastern Conference Finals. The culprit? OG Anunoby's hamstring.
Anunoby has been sidelined since Game 2 of the semifinals, and while the Knicks managed to sweep the Philadelphia 76ers without him, his absence in the next round could be a different story. The two-way forward is averaging 21.4 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 1.9 steals this postseason, shooting a blistering 61.9% from the field. His defensive versatility and offensive efficiency are exactly what the Knicks need against either the Cleveland Cavaliers or Detroit Pistons.
According to ESPN’s Vincent Goodwill, the team is optimistic about Anunoby's return for Game 1. “Anunoby went through portions of Knicks practice Wednesday, but did not go through anything live,” Goodwill reported, citing head coach Mike Brown. The forward was seen shooting after the session and completed an individual workout. That was enough to keep hope alive—until Friday.
Stefan Bondy of the New York Post broke the news that Anunoby wasn’t in uniform for Friday’s practice. That sent Knicks fans into a frenzy on social media. “I like the idea of him resting, but if he is planning to play Sunday at 3:30, (a possibility) I would imagine they would want to get him up to speed,” one fan wrote on X. “So starting to get a little worried.” Another fan was more blunt: “He’s not gonna be ready. Hamstring injuries take a long time to heal.”
Not everyone is panicking, though. “It’s ok. Let him get healthy. We ‘NEED’ HIM AT 100%. I’m sure when he’s ready he’ll be at practice and ready to go,” a third fan declared.
Brown later clarified that Anunoby scrimmaged and “did everything we did in practice,” which is a promising sign for Game 1. Still, the mixed signals have the Big Apple holding its breath. The Knicks have already drawn plenty of attention this postseason, from Molly Qerim's courtside appearance to the team's dominant play. But none of that matters if their key two-way star isn't on the floor.
The Knicks have leaned heavily on Anunoby’s versatility. He’s been a nightmare for opponents on defense and a reliable scorer on offense. Without him, the team’s depth will be tested, especially against a Cavaliers squad that features Donovan Mitchell or a Pistons team that has been surging.
For now, Knicks fans can only wait and hope. The Eastern Conference Finals are almost here, and OG Anunoby’s hamstring will decide whether the Knicks’ dream season continues or turns into a nightmare. As one fan put it, “We need him at 100%.” Time will tell if that wish comes true.
