Jalen Brunson couldn't avoid the injury report for Saturday's home game against the Pistons.
Brunson, who hit the floor hard in a third-quarter collision and did not play the final 14 minutes of Thursday's win over the Hornets, is listed as questionable with a lower back contusion.
Tom Thibodeau said after Thursday's game that the All-Star point guard returned to the bench midway through the fourth quarter but “could have come back.”
But with the Knicks leading by more than 20 points, there was no reason to bring Brunson back into the game.
Brunson, who started all 22 games this season, said he felt “great” after the game but would see how he felt Friday.
Brunson was also in doubt for the Knicks' game against the Bulls on November 13, but he did play and recorded 24 points and eight assists in 34 minutes.
With the return of Precious Achiuwa against the Hornets, backup center Jericho Sims played just three minutes and was scoreless in the first half.
Sims started all 22 games this season, averaging 1.9 points and 4.0 rebounds in 13.2 minutes per game.
Asked if Achiuwa's return would make Sims a situational player, Thibodeau replied, “No, we didn't like the energy of the group, so we just started looking for something to energize us.” Ta. He has to make sure you get things done in the field. ”
Cam Payne is listed as questionable after missing Thursday's game with a left elbow effusion.
“Let's see where he is. [Friday]” Thibodeau said Thursday night. “Deuce” [McBride] It was great, but I like being on the bench with Deuce and Cam. It gives us great shine and great energy. I think that's what Precious adds to that. [second-unit] The group will become even more speedy and athletic. ”
