The regular NBA season is back on after an end to the All-Star festivities. The 4th game of the weekend sees the 3rd-placed Knicks face off against 10th-placed Bulls in a battle of 2 of the most legendary and popular NBA brands. The United Center’s in for a thriller on the 20th of February.

The Knicks have been riddled with injuries this season, but coach Tom Thibodeau has provided a fresh update on key players Mitchell Robinson and OG Anunoby.

Knicks injury report and predicted lineup

The poster boy for their injury woes this season has been Mitchell Robinson, with his ankle restricting him to just 31 games this season. The pre season rehabilitation surgery he had in May didn’t seem to do the trick for the recurring problem. Just like Columbus from Zombieland, he knew he had to double tap on the inconvenience; he had to get a second rehabilitation surgery on the same ankle. This came after his collision with Joel Embiid during a game vs the 76ers. “It is very frustrating. Not getting out there to be able to do what you love to do for a living. It’s been hard. I’m maintaining, trying to stay focused best as I can,” said Robins0n.

Knicks’ resident Nigerian OG Anunoby has been dealing with a foot problem since the 2nd of February. In a match against the Lebron James‘ Lakers, he fumbled his leg movement while shooting which caused his right foot to twist resulting in a sprain. While it wasn’t deemed to be a long-term injury, Thibs did put him on a day-to-day basis to ease his transiton back into the team. He’s been averaging 16.4 games this season, so the Knicks HC’s update has come as a blesing for the Big Apple reps.

Both he and OG Anunoby participated in the full practice ahead of the Bulls game. It was essential for them to get the opportunity to play 5-on-5 scrims before their clash against the Bulls, and that is exactly what the Knicks HC confirmed. “Mitch was good, OG was good. So it was good to be back out there, [they] did everything.” said Thidobeau about their involvement. But this doesn’t necessarily mean they’re back for the Bulls game, and Thibu made sure not to comment on that situation.

With Tyler Kolek, Pacome Dadiet and Kevin McCullar currently projected to be out as well, this is the Knicks’ predicted lineup against the Bulls:

The potential returns of OG Anunoby and Mitchell Robinson are nothing but rewards for their persistence against the injury demon this season. Coach Tom Thidobeau’s updates on 2 key players in the squad just boost their play-off hopes, all in the hunt for their third championship win.