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What Happened to OG Anunoby? Star Exits Knicks vs. Celtics Game With Injury
Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Tonight, the New York Knicks faced the Boston Celtics for their second regular-season matchup, and all eyes were on OG Anunoby. The forward was coming off an impressive performance against the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Knicks’ season opener, but he seemed to suffer a setback on the court. Fans were immediately concerned after he appeared to be injured and was walking off the court.

After being taken out of the game, Anunoby was spotted on the sideline being attended to by trainers. Knicks insider Ian Begley reported: “Doesn’t seem like he’s going to the back/locker room, which could be a positive sign.” He was previously listed as ‘probable’ with a left ankle sprain before the matchup, but ended up playing against the Celtics anyway.

Shortly afterward, Anunoby was spotted getting some warmup. Begley revealed, “OG Anunoby is now pedaling on the stationary bike in the tunnel, possibly another sign that his injury isn’t overly severe.” The sight of him remaining active and working his ankle provided reassurance, especially because Anunoby didn’t end up going to the locker room.

Soon enough, Anunoby returned to the Knicks bench. Though what happened to him remains unclear, his ability to remain in the environment of the game has helped alleviate the early anxiety about the severity of his injury.

After the game, Knicks head coach Mike Brown directly addressed Anunoby’s condition. Begley reported, “OG Anunoby would have been able to go back in the game if needed, Mike Brown said. Anunoby had a cramp and left floor in fourth quarter. Seems like a non-issue.”

While the injury was surprising, Anunoby’s presence on the pre-game injury report signals that the team was cautious in its approach. Staff will make sure to monitor him closely going into their next matchup.

Mike Brown praises OG Anunoby’s dominance against the Cleveland Cavaliers

OG Anunoby put on a highlight-filled night against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the Knicks’ season opener, finishing the game with 24 points and 14 rebounds. He guarded multiple Cavs players, and Mike Brown heaped praise on him during the post-game conference: “OG was a monster… he was our defensive player of the game. He guarded multiple guys tonight, and his energy on both ends set the tone for us.

Alongside Anunoby, the Knicks were led by Jalen Brunson’s 23 points and Karl-Anthony Towns‘ 19. Brown, who debuted as Knicks head coach this game, made adjustments and contained the third-quarter surge from the Cavaliers, including a pivotal 14-0 fourth-quarter run that sealed the game. “OG’s impact doesn’t always show in the box score, but tonight it did,” Brown said. “When you have someone who can defend multiple positions like that and still give you 24 and 14, it changes everything. He and KAT really anchored us tonight.”

Looking ahead, the Knicks are going to face the Miami Heat at Kaseya Center on Sunday. The Heat are coming off a blowout win against the Grizzlies, and Towns will have to show up offensively against a monstrous defensive frontcourt. OG Anunoby is going to have a challenging defensive matchup against Norman Powell, and it might end up deciding how the game goes.

This article first appeared on EssentiallySports and was syndicated with permission.

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