New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby, out since Game 2 of the Eastern Conference semifinals due to left hamstring strain, plans to participate in shootaround Sunday morning and test the possibility of returning for Game 7 against the Indiana Pacers, sources told ESPN.
The Knicks reclassified Anunoby to questionable Saturday afternoon after sources told ESPN he was initially expected to remain out unless the Knicks advanced to the Conference Finals Is against the Boston Celtics starting Tuesday. Nonetheless, Anunoby has made progress in his rehabilitation and believes there is a real opportunity for him to return and help his team during the season at stake, sources said.
Anunoby has been sidelined since suffering a hamstring injury on May 6, and the mere possibility of him returning for a Game 7 could be a boon for an injury-decimated Knicks roster. He averaged 16.4 points, 6.8 rebounds, 1 steal and 1 block in eight playoff games this season.
Knicks guard Josh Hart was also listed as questionable due to an abdominal strain suffered in Game 6 at Indiana, and he is expected to do everything in his power to try to play Sunday, sources said. Although milder, abdominal strains are limited in treatment options, unlike ankle sprains or leg bruises which can be treated with ice and stimulation.
Almost all of Hart’s movements cause pain, including simply coughing and breathing. There is no escaping pain, which can be avoided through injuries to other parts of the body.
Hart is averaging 14.9 points, a team-leading 11.8 rebounds and 4.5 assists in 42.6 minutes per game this postseason.
The Knicks lost All-NBA forward Julius Randle, center Mitchell Robinson and forward Bojan Bogdanovic to season-ending injuries.
News Source : www.espn.com
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