OG Anunoby is inching closer to a return. The Knicks forward participated in "some parts" of practice Wednesday, though he sat out the team scrimmage as he recovers from a right hamstring strain. Head coach Mike Brown offered a cautiously optimistic update: "The stuff that he went through, he looked fine."
Anunoby focused on shooting and individual drills, but it remains unclear whether the 6-foot-7 wing has resumed sprinting. His status for Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals is still up in the air, though ESPN reported Wednesday that there's growing optimism he'll be available when the series tips off.
"The medical staff told me what he could do today," Brown said, noting the Knicks won't practice Thursday. "They have not told me what he can do on Friday, so I don't know what he'll be able to do for Game 1."
Wednesday marked exactly one week since Anunoby tweaked his hamstring during the fourth quarter of New York's Game 2 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers. He was listed as questionable for Games 3 and 4 but ultimately sat out both as the Knicks completed a second-round sweep.
The timing could work in New York's favor. The Eastern Conference Finals won't begin until Sunday or Tuesday, depending on how long the Detroit Pistons-Cleveland Cavaliers series lasts. That means Anunoby could get nearly two full weeks of rest before the next round starts. "Any time anybody's able to do stuff in practice, you get encouraged," Brown added.
Anunoby has been a postseason force, averaging 21.4 points (second on the team) and 7.5 rebounds while shooting a blistering 61.9% from the field and 53.8% from beyond the arc. He's also taken on the toughest defensive assignments. However, the 28-year-old has a history of leg issues, including a left hamstring injury that cost him nine games earlier this season.
Without Anunoby, the Knicks have gotten key contributions from Miles "Deuce" McBride (25 points, 7-of-9 from three in Game 4) and Landry Shamet (13.5 points per game, 6-of-9 from deep over Games 3 and 4). Now, New York faces the delicate balance of rest versus preparation as they await their next opponent and their star forward's return.