The Knicks are rolling-and they’d like to keep it that way heading into the All-Star break. Winners of nine of their last ten, New York is looking to build on a dominant win over the Celtics as they host the struggling Indiana Pacers. But they might have to do it without one of their key two-way contributors.
OG Anunoby’s Status in Question
OG Anunoby, who’s been a difference-maker since arriving in New York, is listed as questionable with right toe soreness. He’s missed the last two games, last suiting up on February 4 against Denver. In that one, he logged a heavy 48 minutes and put up a well-rounded 20 points, eight boards, and four assists-classic OG impact on both ends.
On the season, he’s averaging 16.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.4 assists. His ability to defend multiple positions and knock down shots has added a new layer to the Knicks’ identity. If he’s unable to go, it’s a significant absence, especially against a Pacers team that, while struggling, still brings offensive firepower.
Mitchell Robinson Out, McBride Still Recovering
Mitchell Robinson is out for this one, part of the Knicks’ ongoing management of his left ankle. He played 16 minutes off the bench in the win over Boston, grabbing nine rebounds and adding five points and two assists. While he’s returned to action in recent games, the Knicks have been cautious with him in back-to-back situations-and this is one of those.
Miles McBride remains out after undergoing pelvic core muscle surgery. The expectation is that he won’t be back until the playoffs, so the Knicks will continue to lean on their depth in the backcourt.
Two rookies, Pacome Dadiet and Dillon Jones, are also out as they continue their development with the G League squad.
Pacers Limping into MSG
Indiana is in the middle of a tough stretch. They’ve lost four straight, most recently falling to Toronto 122-104, and are deep into a six-game road trip. They’re also dealing with several injury concerns of their own.
Newly acquired center Ivica Zubac is questionable with a left ankle sprain. The Pacers brought him in at the deadline in a deal that sent Bennedict Mathurin and Isaiah Jackson to the Clippers, but Zubac has yet to make his debut for Indiana.
Aaron Nesmith is also questionable due to a left hand strain. He’s played the last two games after missing one earlier this month and is averaging 13.6 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists over 31 games. His perimeter shooting and defensive versatility have been bright spots in an otherwise inconsistent Pacers campaign.
TJ McConnell and Micah Potter are both questionable as well-McConnell with right hamstring soreness, Potter with a left hip contusion. Both have played the last two games, but their availability remains uncertain. McConnell, in particular, has been a steady hand off the bench, averaging 9.5 points and 4.8 assists.
Previous Matchup and What’s Ahead
This is the second meeting of the season between these two teams. The Knicks edged out the Pacers 114-113 back on December 18 in a tight contest. They'll square off twice more in March, but this one carries weight as New York looks to stay hot and Indiana tries to stop the bleeding.
The Knicks are clearly trending upward, even with injuries testing their depth. And while the Pacers are in a rough patch, they’ve got enough talent to be dangerous-especially if some of their questionable players suit up.
With the All-Star break looming, both teams have something to prove. The Knicks want to keep climbing.
The Pacers just want to stop the slide. Madison Square Garden should be buzzing.