New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson will miss Friday’s matchup against the Miami Heat after sustaining a Grade 1 right ankle sprain, according to NBA insider Shams Charania. The 29-year-old guard will be evaluated daily as the team monitors his recovery.
Brunson injured his ankle late in the fourth quarter of Wednesday’s 124–107 loss to the Orlando Magic, leaving with under two minutes remaining and not returning to the game.
The guard was seen leaving Madison Square Garden in a walking boot and using crutches, indicating a cautious approach from the team. Before exiting, Brunson had tallied 31 points and six assists, shooting efficiently and maintaining his strong start to the season.
This season, Brunson has been averaging 28 points, 6.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds over 11 games while shooting 46.7% from the field and 36.9% from three-point range. His absence will be a significant loss for a Knicks team currently sitting at 7-4.
The Knicks will look to adjust their backcourt rotation against the Heat, with backup guards expected to shoulder more responsibility in Brunson’s absence. Daily evaluations will determine when he can return to action.
