Knicks’ Jalen Brunson Cleared For Basketball Activities

All-NBA Knicks point guard Jalen Brunson, who will miss a 12th consecutive game on Sunday due to a right ankle sprain, has been given the green light to resume basketball activities as he continues his rehab, per Fred Katz of The Athletic (Twitter link).

According to Tim Bontemps of ESPN (via Twitter), Brunson told gathered reporters that his ankle is improving, though he doesn’t have a specific target date for his return. He didn’t go into any detail on what he’s been able to do on the court so far or whether he’s been cleared for contact.

Brunson said he “realistically” hopes to return prior to the start of this spring’s playoffs in order to regain his rhythm ahead of the postseason, tweets Ian Begley of SNY.tv.

The 28-year-old had looked like a lock to earn a second consecutive All-NBA berth prior to his ankle injury. He has played 61 games this season and needs to reach the 65-game mark to qualify for an All-NBA nod.

When healthy, Brunson has been spectacular. The Villanova alum is averaging 26.3 points, 7.4 assists, and 3.0 rebounds per game this season, with a shooting line of .490/.384/.825.

Brunson’s primary backups at the point, Miles McBride and Cameron Payne, have also been on the shelf as of late due to a left groin contusion and a right ankle sprain, respectively.

Most recently, Delon Wright earned the starting point guard nod in an eventual road victory against Milwaukee on Friday.

At 46-27, the Knicks are currently the No. 3 seed in the Eastern Conference, with a 3.5-game lead on No. 4 Indiana.

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