What Did Thibs Say About Jalen Brunson's Injury Status?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Lance Roberson | Last updated Nov 13, 2024 6:23 PM ET

After Jalen Brunson turned his ankle vs. the Philadelphia 76ers on Emirates NBA Cup Tuesday, fans took an Olympic swimmer-sized breath. Thankfully, for the New York Knicks and their fans, Brunson returned to the game, helping lead to a 111-99 victory. However, as the Knicks battle the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday, Brunson's availability is under question.

During pregame media availability, Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau verbally updated the injury report. Out of caution, against the lesser caliber 4-7 Bulls, there is a chance Brunson wont play. Thibodeau announced Brunson, Cameron Payne, Miles McBride are all game-time decisions.

Alarmingly, the game-time decisions consists of 75 percent for the point guard depth chart. It's plausible that rookie point guard Tyler Kolek will start against the Bulls, taking on Josh Giddey.

While such a realty isn't the best-case scenario, as the Bulls have feisty players who could make for a long night against the rookie point guard, playing it safe with Brunson in an Eastern Conference lacking separation bodes well for the Knicks' future.

Kolek averaged 11 points and four assists during the preseason. If the Knicks rests Brunson on a second night of a back-to-back, Kolek has a grand opportunity to showcase what he can do against a "lower level" Eastern Conference team.

It's also possible that Thibodeau is pulling a gamesmanship tactic in waiting until the last minute to reveal that Brunson will play against the Bulls.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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