Jalen Brunson. Image via: Mark J. Terrill/ AP The New York Knicks face an immediate test on the road as they prepare for a demanding stretch without their floor general. Jalen Brunson was ruled out of Thursday night’s matchup against the Golden State Warriors after suffering a right ankle sprain in Sacramento. The injury came early, cutting short his night and shifting the tone of a back-to-back swing that already carried little margin for error.New York enters the Warriors game at 25-15, still near the top of the Eastern Conference standings. Brunson’s absence forces rotation changes against Golden State, while the Knicks weigh caution with their most important scorer and leader.
New York Knicks injury update on Jalen Brunson’s status
The Knicks labeled Jalen Brunson as day-to-day, signaling optimism that the sprain is not severe. He exited Wednesday’s loss to the Kings at the 7:01 mark of the first quarter after planting his right foot while dribbling. The non-contact nature raised concern, though the team ruled him out at halftime rather than immediately.This marks another chapter in a familiar issue. Brunson missed two games earlier this season with a right ankle sprain and sat out nearly a month late last year after injuring the same ankle. Despite that history, New York has not indicated a long-term shutdown. The next opportunity for his return comes Saturday when the Knicks host the Phoenix Suns, though no firm timeline has been confirmed.Without Brunson, Miles McBride and rookie Tyler Kolek are expected to see expanded roles in the backcourt. The Knicks will also be without Mitchell Robinson due to injury management, while Landry Shamet remains sidelined with a shoulder sprain.
Jalen Brunson candidly shared his success with the New York Knicks
Brunson’s importance to New York is reflected in his production. The All-Star guard is averaging a career-best 28.9 points and 6.3 assists, ranking among the league’s top scorers and earning recent Eastern Conference Player of the Month honors. He has also been the NBA’s reigning Clutch Player of the Year, often closing games that hinge on execution.Before the injury, Brunson spoke about what drives him at this stage of his career. “Success obviously now is that I want to win. That’s how I define success I want to win,” he said. That mindset has helped steady the Knicks through pressure-filled moments in a demanding market.He has also pointed to the values that guide him. “What do I take pride in? Honestly, my work ethic I think can translate not just on the court but in life, and that’s what I try to do with my foundation, and that’s how I want to raise my kids as well,” Brunson stated.For now, New York’s priority is health. The Knicks will monitor Brunson closely, knowing the season’s direction often follows the availability of their captain.Also Read: Golden State Warriors vs New York Knicks (01-15-2026) game preview: When and where to watch, expected lineup, injury report, prediction, and more