New York Knicks fans held their breath last week when star guard Jalen Brunson was spotted leaving Madison Square Garden in a walking boot. Brunson suffered an ankle sprain during New York’s win over the Orlando Magic, raising concerns that he could miss significant time.
In Brunson’s absence, the Knicks have managed to stay afloat, splitting a pair of games against the Miami Heat. Karl-Anthony Towns, Landry Shamet, Jordan Clarkson and Miles McBride have taken on added scoring responsibilities, helping New York maintain its early-season momentum even without its leading playmaker.
The news this week, however, offered a far more optimistic outlook. According to Knicks insider Ian Begley, Brunson has been upgraded to questionable for Wednesday’s matchup against the Dallas Mavericks — a development that suggests the All-Star guard may return sooner than initially expected.
Brunson has been one of the NBA’s most productive guards this season, averaging 28 points, 6.5 assists and 3.5 rebounds per game. If he plays Wednesday, the meeting will serve as a brief homecoming. Brunson spent his first four seasons in Dallas after being selected in the second round of the 2018 NBA Draft out of Villanova.
The Knicks, currently 8-5 and sitting near the top of the Eastern Conference standings, could use his presence as they navigate a challenging stretch. New York remains winless on the road, joining the Indiana Pacers as the only teams yet to secure an away victory this season. After wrapping up a six-game homestand, the Knicks began a five-game road trip Monday in Miami. They will continue with stops in Dallas, Orlando, Brooklyn and Charlotte before returning to MSG.
If Brunson is unable to suit up Wednesday night, indications point to a likely return Saturday when the Knicks once again face the Magic.
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