Is Jalen Brunson Playing Tonight? All Details On Knicks Vs Raptors Injury Report, Line-Up And More

Trouble in New York? Although the Knicks are sitting comfortably in the third spot of the East standings, their momentum has taken a major hit after losing the last three games. And they hope to snap that streak tonight by getting a win against the Raptors. But it could prove to be a massive challenge because they might be playing without a key star amid Jalen Brunson’s recent injury.

Well, Brunson has been playing through a right calf tightness recently and has been a frequent entry in the injury report. But a completely different issue forced him to leave Monday’s Magic clash. During the game, Brunson was accidentally poked in the eye by Center Goga Bitadze, leaving him in serious agony.

Fortunately, he was able to return later in the game, but the incident has left the fans concerned about his availability tonight. Don’t worry, though! Because he’s not listed on the IR, Brunson will probably play. Unfortunately, we cannot say the same for Karl-Anthony Towns.

Yes, the big man is questionable to play. The reason? Right knee tendinitis—the same injury that caused him to miss Monday’s game as well. And he could remain out for his second-straight matchup tonight. Of course, that would be a massive blow to the team because KAT has been on fire since getting traded to NYC, averaging 25.3 points and a league-high fourteen rebounds. In case he remains out, Jericho Sims is likely to take his spot in the starting lineup once again.

Meanwhile, Miles McBride could also miss his fifth straight game as he too is questionable, with a strained left hamstring. Moreover, Mitchell Robinson is out as he continues to recover from his offseason ankle surgery. Although he has begun running at full speed, the big man is yet to be cleared for full practice, which means his return is still far.

Knicks and Raptors’ Depth Chart

With Brunson likely available and KAT’s status uncertain, this is what the Knicks’ depth chart looks like:

Sure, Sims will take Towns’ place as a starter, but Precious Achiuwa’s minutes will also increase significantly if KAT does not suit up. As expected, the responsibility to lead the charge will rest on Brunson’s shoulders as he has been in dominant form, averaging 25.3 points and nearly eight assists.

Meanwhile, this is what the Raptors’ depth chart looks like:

Well, they do not have any player on the injury report so far, which means they might be coming in with a fully healthy roster.

Sure enough, the two teams have already faced each other twice, both times in December. And the Knicks came out on top on both occasions. But KAT led them, which might not be the case tonight. Whose side are you on?