New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson reacts after a basket against the Portland Trail Blazers during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Portland, Ore. (AP Photo/Amanda Loman) Jalen Brunson will play tonight for New York Knicks. He has been cleared after a right ankle sprain and is in the starting lineup for the January 30 game against the Portland Trail Blazers.There are no special limits attached to his return. He is expected to play his normal minutes.
How Jalen Brunson’s injury happened
Jalen Brunson rolled his right ankle early in the first quarter of New York’s loss to Sacramento on January 14. He played only five minutes before leaving the game and did not return.After that night, he was listed as questionable for several games. The team monitored swelling and movement in the ankle. Recent checks showed no structural damage. He has been walking and training without a boot or crutches. That allowed the team to upgrade him to available.
What his return means on the floor for the New York Knicks
New York Knicks went 2-4 in games he missed or left early this season. His return brings back the team’s main ball handler and late-game creator. He is averaging about 28 points and 6 assists per game. With him back, the offense should run through him again.Expect more pick-and-roll plays with Karl-Anthony Towns and OG Anunoby. The team should also play faster after rebounds and turnovers, with Brunson making quick decisions in space. His presence also reduces the load on Julius Randle and the bench to create shots on their own.
More about Jalen’s injury
Brunson has hurt the same ankle before, including a mild sprain earlier this season and a more serious one last year that kept him out for about a month. This time the injury is lighter. After the Sacramento game, he was able to walk out of the arena normally. That pointed to a minor sprain and a short recovery period. Because of that, the team is not treating this as a long absence. He is set to return to his regular role.
What to expect against Portland Trail Blazers on January 30, 2026
Brunson should have the ball in his hands from the start. He will run the offense, take pull-up jumpers, and set up teammates in half-court sets. Late in the game, the Knicks are likely to rely on him to create shots in isolation or out of screens.Also read: Portland Trail Blazers vs New York Knicks injury report: Who’s playing, injured and questionable players, head-to-head records, team stats, and more (January 30, 2026)With him back, the offense is more stable and balanced. For anyone setting fantasy lineups or tracking the game live, he is active and ready to play his usual game.