New York Knicks forward Precious Achiuwa made his season debut Thursday after missing the first 22 games due to a hamstring injury.
ESPN’s Tim Bontemps reported that his availability depended on warmups, and the player ultimately played 12 minutes in New York’s blowout win over Charlotte, recording two points and four rebounds.
Achiuwa’s return bolsters a Knicks frontcourt already missing Mitchell Robinson, who remains out with an ankle injury. His energy and versatility add depth behind Karl-Anthony Towns as the Knicks continue their strong 14-8 start, going 9-2 in their last 11 games.
Acquired in last year’s OG Anunoby trade, Achiuwa averaged 7.6 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks in 49 games last season. The Madison Square Garden crowd gave him a warm reception in his return.
“[The reception] means a lot to me. Obviously, New York to me is very dear to my heart,” Achiuwa said, per Peter Botte of the New York Post. “Hearing the crowd meant a lot. Watching from the sideline was tough, but knowing the crowd is behind me has been very reassuring.”
Achiuwa’s return strengthens New York’s playoff push as they look to maintain momentum and improve both offensively and defensively.
New York Notes: Achiuwa, Brunson, McBride, Thomas, Claxton https://t.co/GhXp9or8j3 pic.twitter.com/QztXmUJcCA
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) December 6, 2024
