New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

Knicks could get major boost for Game 7 showdown with Pacers

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 5/18/24

OG Anunoby could be back in the New York Knicks rotation for their Game 7 contest against the Indiana Pacers. The winner of that game will progress to the Eastern Conference Finals, where they will face the Boston Celtics. Anunoby hasn't played since Game 2 of the second-round series, where he suffered a hamstring injury.

According to Ian Begley of SNY, there is 'optimism' surrounding a potential return for Anunoby.

Knicks and OG Anunoby will make call tomorrow on whether he plays in Game 7 but there is optimism about his return at the moment, per SNY sources. Sources say Anunoby has progressed in his rehab and he wants to be out there with his teammates in win-or-go-home game vs IND.
— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) May 18, 2024

Anunoby is one of the best wing defenders in the NBA. His presence on Sunday would give Tom Thibodeau's team a huge boost. His two-way ability ensures he's one of the most talented players on the floor when healthy and gives the Knicks a dimension that has been missing from their roster.

New York has been dealing with a string of injuries during the postseason. Somehow, they've managed to stay afloat and are now one game away from reaching the conference finals. When the Knicks acquired Anunoby in December, they likely envisioned him helping the team in win-or-go-home situations such as the one they are about to face.

The Pacers' style of play could come unglued if Anunoby can produce a high-level defensive performance. He fits Thibodeau's system perfectly. Nevertheless, the coaching staff must be cautious. Should they overcome the Pacers, the Knicks would need Anunoby against the Celtics. New York is walking a tightrope of minute management and player health.

Still, this is a Game 7. You have to give it everything you've got. Having Anunoby back in the rotation would be a major boost. And it could be enough to put the Knicks over the top and into a series against the Celtics.

More must-reads: