Jalen Brunson's health, the X factor for the New York Knicks in the playoffs

When Jalen Brunson landed on Austin Reaves' foot in overtime against Los Angeles after receiving a floater in the middle of traffic, he limped off and couldn't put weight on his right ankle. The point guard stayed to shoot the decisive free throws but immediately went to the locker room. New York's captain is one of the toughest and most resilient players in the league, so his exit from the game without a fight was a worrying sign. There were rumors that he might have suffered a serious ankle injury that would ruin his season. However, the initial information was that he had avoided the worst-case scenario. Since then, everything has been positive for the heart of the city.

Ian Begley, from SNY, reported that Brunson's rehab is going very well, and the point guard is progressing faster than initially expected. This news is not so surprising because Brunson has appeared to bounce back quickly from all the injuries he has suffered in his career with the Knicks. He is famous for exiting big games to the locker room only to return later and lead NY to victory. The second game against Indiana last year and a home opener against Milwaukee this season are two examples of this.

However, this news remains a great relief for everyone involved in the Knicks organization. They have no hopes of making the playoffs if their leader isn't fully healthy. Brunson's game is based on quick, high-tension movements with his footwork and drives to the basket, so if he is even slightly hindered by an ankle injury, it would be devastating. New York has done a good job weathering the storm while he has been out, but it is nowhere near the elite team it is with Brunson. So, how will the Knicks approach his imminent return? There are some considerations.

Fortunately for Brunson, he played in 61 of the first 62 Knicks' games, which means he only needs four more to meet the minimum requirement of 65 games to qualify. Somehow, he still has a chance to reach the threshold despite what will be at least a month-long injury. He will need to return on NY's penultimate game, on Sunday, April 6, against the Suns. NY has a back-to-back on April 10 and 11, which he is almost certain not to play both games.

That would mean Brunson has to be on the court within the next 12 days, which seems unlikely, but these positive reports indicate there might be an opportunity. Now, his award status is largely irrelevant in the grand scheme of things. The Knicks will prioritize their superstar's short and long-term health as well as his playoff push above all else, and he would say the same. However, these awards mean something for a player's legacy, and Brunson is on track for a second-team All-NBA selection if he can play four more games.

Playoffs, the Priority for Brunson and the Knicks

The most important consideration for Brunson is when to bring him back to optimize both his health and performance. NY has been adamant about not rushing him before he's ready. However, it would be best for him to get some NBA games under his belt before the postseason.

He needs these tune-up games for three reasons. Firstly, to shake off rust before playing in the year's most important and competitive competitions. Secondly, he will need to regain his breath after over a month of no full-court basketball. This factor is even more critical considering his extremely heavy workload. Lastly, Brunson needs to have live action to ensure his body is ready to endure multiple rounds of basketball in the playoffs. If he is thrown straight into the postseason, he could overexert himself and get injured again.

The bottom line is this: if New York manages to get Brunson fully healthy and in rhythm for the first game of the first round, it will be a huge win. With him in the lineup, New York will always have a chance.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, La salud de Jalen Brunson, el factor X de los New York Knicks de cara a los playoffs