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Anunoby Returns: Knicks' Playoff X-Factor Back for Game 1
20 May
Summary
- Anunoby returns for Game 1 after a 13-day absence due to a hamstring injury.
- He averaged 21.4 points and 7.5 rebounds in the postseason before the injury.
- His previous hamstring injury significantly impacted a prior playoff run.
The New York Knicks received a significant boost as their top performer, Anunoby, was activated and set to start Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Anunoby had been sidelined for 13 days due to a hamstring injury sustained in Game 2 of the previous series.
Before his injury, Anunoby had been a standout player throughout the postseason. He averaged an impressive 21.4 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks, while also leading the team in steals with 1.9 per game. His efficiency was remarkable, shooting 61.9 percent from the field and 53.8 percent from beyond the arc.
This return comes after a period of rest and rehabilitation, facilitated by the Knicks' second-round sweep of the 76ers and the Cavaliers' extended seven-game series. This unusual break allowed Anunoby more time to recover than a similar hamstring injury two years ago, which had a detrimental impact on the Knicks' playoff aspirations. It remains uncertain if Anunoby will face a minutes restriction in Game 1.
