Knicks Secure 3rd Seed But Lose OG Anunoby to Ankle Injury in Win Over Raptors

The New York Knicks clinched the No. 3 seed in the Eastern Conference with a win over the Toronto Raptors on Friday but lost key forward OG Anunoby to a left ankle injury in the process. Anunoby exited the game in the second quarter after rolling his ankle on a collision with Raptors guard Scottie Barnes. The injury could have serious implications as the Knicks prepare for the playoffs.

Anunoby went down early in the second quarter while contesting a shot from Barnes. He rolled his left ankle and stayed in the game for a few possessions before heading to the locker room. He did not return for the remainder of the game and missed the entire second half. Knicks head coach Mike Brown provided no further updates on Anunoby’s status following the game.

The injury is a major blow for the Knicks, who rely heavily on Anunoby’s two-way contributions. This season, Anunoby averaged 18.4 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 2.4 steals per game while shooting 40.7% from three-point range. His absence in the second half forced the Knicks to lean on Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle, who combined for 54 of New York's 118 points.

Anunoby has already missed 13 games this season due to a hamstring strain and a lost toenail. His availability for the first round of the playoffs remains uncertain, though the Knicks have over a week to assess the injury before the series begins. The team has no games scheduled on Sunday, giving medical staff more time to evaluate Anunoby’s ankle.

The Raptors, meanwhile, continue to build momentum as they aim for a playoff berth. Scottie Barnes, who was involved in the play that led to Anunoby’s injury, finished with 17 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 assists. Toronto lost the game 118–110 but remains in a tight race for a top-six seed in the East.

Knicks coach Mike Brown had no updates on Anunoby postgame. “We’ll get him checked out and go from there,” Brown said. “He’s a big part of what we do, so we’ll see how he responds.”

The Knicks will have time to prepare for the playoffs while monitoring Anunoby’s recovery. Their next game is not scheduled until the first round of the postseason, which begins the weekend after next. For now, the focus shifts to whether Anunoby can return in time and how the Knicks plan to adjust their rotation if he is sidelined.