Knicks, Rockets Saddled by Key Injuries Ahead of Pivotal Clash
The New York Knicks and Houston Rockets both have championship aspirations, but injuries are threatening to derail their momentum as they face off Monday night at Madison Square Garden.
New York hopes to bounce back from a tough loss to the Lakers, while Houston looks to avoid a three-game losing streak without some of its top players.
Knicks Lose Anunoby in Painful Defeat
New York’s five-game winning streak ended in a 128-112 loss to the Lakers on Saturday, but the bigger concern is OG Anunoby’s foot injury.
🚨 Anunoby Injury Details:
- Left the game early in the third quarter
- X-rays were negative, but his return timeline is uncertain
- Averaging 16.4 PPG, 4.7 RPG, and elite defense
📢 Jalen Brunson on Anunoby’s Importance:
“He’s huge for our team, so we’re going to pray.”
📊 Knicks’ Record With & Without Anunoby (Since Trade in Dec. 2023):
✅ With Anunoby: 58-23
❌ Without Anunoby: 14-17
New York, currently third in the East, has struggled when missing its defensive star. If he’s out, Josh Hart or Donte DiVincenzo may have to step up against a tough Houston squad.
Rockets Dealing With Major Injury Concerns
The Rockets (29-20) have lost two straight, and injuries to two of their biggest stars—Alperen Sengun and Fred VanVleet—could spell trouble.
🚑 Houston’s Injury Report:
- Alperen Sengun (calf contusion): Missed last two games
- Fred VanVleet (ankle injury): Hurt in Saturday’s loss to Brooklyn
💬 Coach Ime Udoka on the Team’s Energy:
“You’ve got to have a certain number of guys come to play with some intensity and some want, desire every night. When you don’t, that’s the result.”
📌 Can Houston Avoid Its First Three-Game Losing Streak of the Season?
Despite their struggles, the Rockets are still tied for second in the Western Conference. A win over the Knicks would help keep them in a strong position as the All-Star break approaches.
Key Matchups to Watch
🔥 Jalen Brunson vs. Jalen Green – Brunson has been on fire, but Green could step up if VanVleet is out.
🔥 Knicks’ Interior Defense vs. Jabari Smith Jr. – With Sengun sidelined, Smith Jr. and Houston’s bigs need to control the paint.
🔥 Bench Impact – Quickley & Hart vs. Houston’s Role Players – If injuries persist, depth will be crucial.
Final Thoughts
🚨 Storylines to Watch:
📌 Will the Knicks survive without Anunoby?
📌 Can the Rockets bounce back if Sengun and VanVleet remain out?
📌 Who steps up in this injury-riddled showdown?
🔥 Two playoff hopefuls, both dealing with major injuries—who comes out on top?