New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby. Jaime Valdez-USA TODAY Sports

OG Anunoby's injury update should scare Eastern Conference

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 3/25/24

OG Anunoby has been out of the New York Knicks rotation since aggravating his elbow injury. The veteran forward was a marquee addition to Tom Thibodeau's team in late December.

According to Dr. Campbell, who spoke with the New York Post, Knicks fans are optimistic about Anunoby's potential return.

“Unfortunately, he did have a setback," Campbell said. "The good news for Knicks fans out there is that he had an MRI and the reports are the MRI did not show any new damage. There was some inflammation in his elbow and I think the Knicks staff were doing a really fantastic job of making sure that they’re appropriately rehabbing him to get him back on the court in a safe time frame.”

If the Knicks want to contend for an Eastern Conference Finals spot this season, they need Anunoby in their rotation. He elevates Thibodeau's team with his elite defense and reliable tertiary offense. He has missed his team's last three games as he continues to rehab his elbow.

Since joining the Knicks in December, Anunoby has played 17 games. He is averaging 14.5 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.6 assists while shooting 49.7% from the field. Unfortunately for Thibodeau, he isn't the only injury concern on the roster. New York has been without Mitchell Robinson and Julius Randle for stretches of the season, too.

If all three players can get back to full fitness ahead of the playoffs and avoid any setbacks moving forward, the Knicks will be a force over a seven-game series.

The front office has done a fantastic job of giving Thibodeau a roster capable of contending at the highest level. Anunoby will have a big role to play in that potential success. If he fails to return this season, it will be a major blow after the Knicks parted with two potential future stars to get the deal over the line.

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