Knicks’ star shooter continues recovery and is expected to play in Eastern Conference Finals Game 1
The New York Knicks have reason to feel optimistic about their championship push. OG Anunoby, who exited Game 2 of their Eastern Conference semifinal against Philadelphia with a hamstring strain, is expected to be available for Game 1 of the Conference Finals. The news comes as the Knicks prepare for what could be a lengthy rest before their next series begins.
The injury and recovery timeline
Anunoby missed the final two games of the Knicks’ sweep of the 76ers, a dominant performance that marked New York’s first series sweep since 1999. The hamstring strain in his right leg forced him to exit late in Game 2, but the timeline for his return appears favorable. He participated in parts of practice on Wednesday and completed an individual on-court workout, suggesting his recovery is progressing well.
Coach Mike Brown emphasized the day-to-day approach the Knicks are taking with their star forward. Brown acknowledged that Anunoby did some things during practice but not when the team went at full speed. The coach expressed uncertainty about exactly when Anunoby would be cleared for more intensive activity, though the extended break before Game 1 provides additional recovery time.
Why Anunoby matters to the Knicks
Anunoby has been one of the most important contributors to the Knicks’ postseason run. The 28-year-old is averaging 21.4 points through eight playoff games while shooting an impressive 61.9 percent from the field and 53.8 percent from beyond the arc. He has made at least two three-pointers in every playoff game he has appeared in this year, twice connecting on four three-pointers in a single contest.
Beyond his offensive explosion during the postseason, Anunoby provides elite defensive value that would be difficult to replace. His two-way impact has been crucial as the Knicks attempt to win their second NBA title since Anunoby’s first championship came with Toronto in 2019.
The advantage of rest
The Knicks will have significant time before the Conference Finals begin. The Cleveland Cavaliers and Detroit Pistons were deadlocked at two games apiece entering Game 5 on Wednesday night, meaning at least two more games remain in their semifinal series. This extended break provides the Knicks time to rest Anunoby and other players while also allowing him additional recovery time from his hamstring strain.
The waiting game presents both advantages and challenges. Forward Josh Hart noted that the team enjoyed four days of rest between their first and second series, but this layoff could extend beyond a week. Hart acknowledged that while the extended break aids physical recovery, the mental challenge of staying sharp during an extended layoff requires focus and preparation.
Managing the long layoff
Coach Brown has experience navigating extended breaks during playoff runs. His Cleveland Cavaliers swept their first two series in 2009 before enduring more than a week off before the Eastern Conference Finals. He also referenced his time with the Golden State Warriors, when the team had a 10-day gap between the end of the Western Conference Finals and the start of the NBA Finals.
Brown stressed that the key during long layoffs is manufacturing ways to keep players mentally sharp and competitive. The Knicks believe they have a plan to stay in rhythm during their time away from games. All-Star Jalen Brunson emphasized the team’s commitment to staying prepared, focusing on the things necessary to maintain their edge when play resumes.
Looking ahead
The Knicks finished their dominant first two rounds by outscoring their opponents by a combined 194 points, the largest margin through a team’s first 10 postseason games. That success came despite Anunoby‘s absence from the final two games, suggesting New York has depth to compete at a high level. However, facing either the top-seeded Pistons or Cavaliers would be significantly more challenging without their star shooter operating at the level he has demonstrated through eight playoff contests.
Source: Based on reporting from ESPN’s Shams Charania, Yahoo Sports, and The Associated Press, May 13, 2026.