Jan 15, 2024; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby (8) celebrates with forward Julius Randle (30) after a basket against the Orlando Magic during the first half at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
NBA: Orlando Magic at New York Knicks
NEW YORK — OG Anunoby lit a fire under the Knicks when he was brought in from Toronto. That was until he suffered an elbow injury that required surgery.
Anunoby has been out since January 27th alongside Julius Randle and New York has sputtered – losing five of their last six games prior of the All-Star break.
On Tuesday, Anunoby spoke with the reporters for the first time since suffering the injury.
“Yeah, it definitely sucks, but just trying to get better as fast as possible and then be ready for the rest of the season,” the Knicks forward explained. “Just following the doctors orders, following the medical staff, just progressing day by day.
“But I’m feeling better and better, so yeah, I want to be back as soon as possible, for sure.”
When Anunoby had the procedure done on February 8th, the team announced he would be “re-evaluated in three weeks”. Three weeks later – he’s yet to be medically cleared to practice. The 26-year-old added he has “no target date” to return to action.
But head coach Tom Thibodeau said Anunoby can still do conditioning work while waiting for the clearance for basketball activities.
“He can condition, that sort of thing. And so he’s probably getting pretty close to whatever the next step is. And that’s probably going to be the shooting component. And then once he gets to that phase, then it’s when he’s ready.”
All-Star forward Julius Randle suffered a dislocated right shoulder in that same game, and he also hasn’t been cleared to resume practicing with the team.
“Oh yeah, it’s unlucky timing for the whole team. But next man up,” Anunoby said. “Everyone’s been stepping up. Jericho [Sims], Precious [Achiuwa] have been really good. Bogie [Bojan Bogdanovic] and Alec [Burks] coming in.
“We have a great team. … I’m definitely excited to get back. I think the whole team is excited to play together again and go on another run.”
The shorthanded Knicks resume play on Thursday against the Philadelphia 76ers.
