Knicks Forward Stepping Up in OG Anunoby's Absence

OG Anunoby suffered a left hamstring injury within the first five minutes of the New York Knicks’ game against the Miami Heat on November 14. After being ruled out, the Knicks had to quickly adjust their lineup and game strategy to compensate for his absence.

Next Man Up Mentality

With Anunoby sidelined, head coach Tom Thibodeau turned to Josh Hart and Precious Achiuwa to fill the gap. Hart, in particular, has embraced an expanded role, contributing on both ends of the court. His energy, defense, and rebounding have been critical in maintaining the Knicks’ competitiveness throughout Anunoby’s recovery period.

“You just have to stay ready. It’s about doing whatever the team needs to win,” Hart said after a recent victory.

Team Adjustments and Performance

The Knicks have managed to stay consistent despite missing one of their key defenders. Julius Randle and Jalen Brunson have continued to lead offensively, while role players have increased their contributions in scoring and playmaking. The team’s defensive cohesion remains strong, reflecting Thibodeau’s emphasis on resilience and discipline.

Looking Ahead

Anunoby’s return timeline remains uncertain, as the Knicks continue to monitor his progress carefully. In the meantime, the collective effort from the team’s rotation players has helped sustain momentum in the Eastern Conference standings.

“It’s really about trust in each other,” Brunson noted. “Everyone’s stepping up.”

Author’s summary:
In OG Anunoby’s absence due to a hamstring injury, Josh Hart and other Knicks players have elevated their performance, keeping the team competitive through collective effort and strong defense.

Sports Illustrated on MSN — 2025-11-29