Brunson’s Ankle Raises Red Flags as Knicks Struggle Late in Games

May 1, 2025 1:53 PM

As the Knicks’ first-round playoff series grinds on, concerns surrounding the health of Jalen Brunson’s right ankle are beginning to overshadow the team’s postseason hopes.

Stefan Bondy of The New York Post reports that Brunson has required treatment on his ankle in every game of the series so far, retreating to the locker room at least once during each contest. His physical limitations are no longer just a subplot – they’re beginning to reshape the course of the series.

The impact of Brunson’s absence was most painfully felt in the closing stretch of Game 5. The Knicks’ offense, which typically revolves around Brunson’s steady hand, lost its rhythm when he sat out for a crucial stint in the fourth quarter.

That lapse allowed Detroit to claw their way to a series-extending victory.

“You can feel the difference when he’s not out there,” said Mikal Bridges, candidly reflecting on the team’s performance without their floor general.

“He’s the guy we rely on to make things happen, to control the tempo. When he goes out, it doesn’t mean we give up – we’re supposed to step up. I didn’t. I should’ve made shots, held it down for him like he always does for us.”

Bridges’ remarks point to a broader issue: without Brunson, the Knicks lack the same fluidity and confidence in late-game scenarios.

During Brunson’s brief absence in the fourth quarter of Game 5, Bridges missed two key shots, Karl-Anthony Towns saw a shot attempt denied, and Cameron Payne failed to convert on a clean look from mid-range.

It’s becoming increasingly clear that Brunson’s health isn’t just a personal concern – it’s a team crisis in the making.