Jalen Brunson Injury Update: Will the Knicks Star Miss More Time After Ankle Sprain?

Jalen Brunson will miss Friday night’s matchup against the Miami Heat after suffering a Grade 1 ankle sprain in the New York Knicks’ loss to the Orlando Magic. The injury happened late in the fourth quarter when Brunson rolled his ankle on a drive. The update comes as the Knicks hope to keep their strong start alive without their leading scorer.

The star guard left Madison Square Garden on crutches and in a walking boot, according to multiple reports, raising concern about his short-term status. His absence is a major storyline heading into the Knicks’ home game at Madison Square Garden, where New York has played some of its best basketball this season.

Latest Details on Jalen Brunson’s Injury Status

The Knicks have officially ruled out Jalen Brunson for Friday’s game, confirming that he is dealing with a Grade 1 ankle sprain. Team officials did not set a timeline for his return, but early indications suggest the team will monitor him day-to-day. Reporting from outlets such as the Associated Press and ESPN noted that Brunson appeared to be in visible pain after the play and exited immediately after shooting two free throws.

Brunson has been the engine of the Knicks’ offense in 2025, averaging 28.0 points, 6.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game. He has also shot 46.7% from the field and nearly 37% from deep. His absence removes one of the NBA’s most reliable late-game scorers and creators.

New York entered the matchup against Miami with a 7-4 record and an impressive 7-1 mark at home. Despite Brunson being ruled out, oddsmakers still listed the Knicks as 3.5-point favorites as of early Friday. New York’s depth, defense, and recent home dominance appear to be major factors.

Miami comes into the game dealing with injuries of its own. Tyler Herro (foot/ankle) and Bam Adebayo (toe) have missed recent games, leaving the team thin on offense. The Heat also lost to a short-handed Cleveland Cavaliers squad earlier this week. These factors contribute to the Knicks’ slight advantage even without their star guard.

Brunson dealt with an ankle injury last season as well, missing several weeks before returning for a standout postseason that earned him a second straight All-NBA selection. The Knicks will hope this latest setback is minor and does not derail the strong start to their 2025-26 campaign.

How Brunson’s Absence Shapes the Knicks in the Short Term

Without Brunson, head coach Tom Thibodeau may lean heavily on Donte DiVincenzo, Josh Hart, and Miles McBride to handle more ball-handling duties. Julius Randle will also likely take on a larger initiating role, something he has done successfully in prior seasons.

The Knicks’ offense will look different, but their defensive identity should remain intact. New York is one of the league’s top rebounding and defensive efficiency teams, traits that could help them stay competitive until Brunson returns.

Long term, the Knicks are hoping this injury follows the typical Grade 1 sprain recovery process, which often ranges from a few days to one or two weeks. The team has been cautious with star players in past seasons, suggesting they won’t rush him back.

Jalen Brunson’s injury update will remain a closely watched storyline, especially as the Knicks look to extend their strong home record. His quick recovery will be crucial as New York navigates a tight Eastern Conference race.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Will Jalen Brunson play tonight?

No. The Knicks ruled out Jalen Brunson due to a Grade 1 ankle sprain suffered Wednesday night. He will be evaluated again soon.

Q2: How serious is Jalen Brunson’s ankle sprain?

The team listed it as a Grade 1 sprain, which is the mildest form. Recovery time often ranges from several days to one or two weeks.

Q3: Who replaces Brunson in the Knicks lineup?

Donte DiVincenzo and Miles McBride are expected to take on more ball-handling duties. Julius Randle may also initiate more offense.

Q4: How does Brunson’s absence affect the Knicks?

The Knicks lose their leading scorer and closer, but they remain strong defensively. Their depth gives them a chance to stay competitive.

Q5: Did Jalen Brunson have ankle issues before?

Yes. He injured his ankle last season and missed several weeks but returned to lead the Knicks to a strong playoff run.