Is OG Anunoby playing tonight? Latest Game 1 injury update for the former Hoosier

The New York Knicks are set to take on the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals on Tuesday night.

After sweeping the 76ers in the second round, the Knicks have had an extended break as the Cavaliers needed seven games to close out the Pistons. New York hasn't played since May 10, and that nine-day break could have provided former Hoosier OG Anunoby enough time to rest and recover from a hamstring injury he suffered in Game 2 of the second round against Philadelphia.

OG Anunoby listed as probable for Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals

After initially being listed as day-to-day when the injury first occurred, Anunoby missed Games 3 and 4 of New York's series against Philadelphia. But as tip-off for Game 1 between New York and Cleveland draws nearer, Anunoby appears to be trending in the right direction to suit up.

Anunoby was a full participant in Monday's practice, and is officially listed as probable for Game 1 against the Cavaliers on Tuesday night at Madison Square Garden.

Getting OG Anunoby back would be a huge lift for the Knicks

Anunoby, who played for the Cream and Crimson from 2015-17, has been New York's most efficient scorer so far in the postseason. He is averaging a solid 21.4 points per game and is shooting an impressive 61.9% from the floor and 53.8% from three-point range. He's also leading the Knicks by playing 35.3 minutes per game.

After being cautious and not forcing his return to the court, it now appears that the Knicks are ready to get Anunoby back out there. The 6'7" 240-pound guard has given New York extreme value and scoring prowess this postseason, and given his full participation in Monday's practice, it now seems that he has checked all the boxes in his return to play protocol.

The Knicks enter Game 1 riding a seven-game win streak and have won those games by an average of 27.5 points. The Cavaliers are coming off a Game 7 win over the Pistons just two days ago, so it's possible that Cleveland has a tough time re-focusing with such a quick turnaround. Tip-off is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. ET and the game will be broadcast on ESPN.

NBA fans in Indiana are still probably bummed that the Pacers had such a rough season and got the short end of the stick in the 2027 NBA Draft Lottery, but watching Anunoby become a reliable force in the NBA Playoffs has made life just a little bit more enjoyable for Indiana basketball fans.

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