Knicks forward OG Anunoby ruled out for Game 4 against 76ers as series sweep hangs in balance
Head coach Mike Brown confirms the absence of OG Anunoby following a hamstring strain, leaving the Knicks to attempt a historic sweep without their key contributor.
The New York Knicks will attempt to close out their second-round series against the Philadelphia 76ers on Sunday without starting forward OG Anunoby. Head coach Mike Brown confirmed the absence during a pregame news conference, stating that the player will miss Game 4 due to a right hamstring strain sustained late in the previous contest.
Anunoby has been sidelined for two consecutive games following the injury, which occurred during New York's victory in Game 2. The forward was listed as questionable for the upcoming matchup but has since been ruled out entirely. His absence is significant given his regular-season production, where he averaged 16.7 points, 5.2 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.6 steals over 67 games.
The injury report for the 76ers presents a contrasting picture for their star centre, Joel Embiid. Listed as probable for the contest in Philadelphia, Embiid is managing recent lower-body issues, specifically right hip soreness. The centre returned to the lineup in Game 3 after missing the second game, though his participation remains uncertain heading into the decisive fourth game.
New York currently holds a commanding 3-0 series lead and is seeking to become the first team to sweep the 76ers in the second round for two consecutive seasons. The Knicks aim to complete this historic feat in Philadelphia, but the loss of Anunoby, who is considered day-to-day for the injury, poses a strategic challenge for their closing out efforts.
The duration of Anunoby's absence beyond the immediate game remains unknown, with the team describing his condition as day-to-day. Meanwhile, the outcome of Game 4 will depend heavily on whether Embiid can overcome his lower-body ailments to suit up for the home crowd.
