In the Eastern Conference semifinals of the NBA playoffs, two crucial injuries have emerged for the New York Knicks. Josh Hart and OG Anunoby are both questionable for Game 7 against the Indiana Pacers due to abdominal strains and a hamstring strain, respectively. These injuries come at a pivotal moment in the series as both players have been significant contributors to the Knicks' success this postseason.
Josh Hart asked to be taken out of Game 6 against the Pacers due to abdomen pain and was eventually ruled out for the remainder of the game. Hart has become a regular part of New York's rotation since mid-January and has been a meaningful piece in their success this postseason. He is in five of the top 20 lineups based on net rating, and several of the Knicks' best statistical combinations include his presence due to his ability to score, pass, defend, and rebound. Individually, Hart has a negative individual net rating but has recovered the most loose balls and contested over 200 3-pointers in the playoffs.
OG Anunoby also plans to participate in shootaround before Game 7 and may return from his left hamstring strain. Anunoby has averaged 16.4 points, 6.8 rebounds, 1 steal, and 1 block in eight playoff games this season.
The Knicks have already lost All-NBA forward Julius Randle, center Mitchell Robinson, and forward Bojan Bogdanovic with season-ending injuries. If Hart and Anunoby are unable to play in Game 7, Precious Achiuwa would likely start at power forward and Alec Burks and Jericho Sims would enter the seven-man rotation.
The Knicks have a rich history of success in Game 7s at Madison Square Garden. They will need every advantage they can get to secure their place in the Eastern Conference finals against the Boston Celtics.