As fantasy managers enter championship week, the stakes couldn’t be higher. A total of 22 teams feature four-game schedules, but injuries complicate matters. Kevin Durant is a key injury concern after spraining his ankle, with his availability uncertain as the Suns embark on a road trip. Bradley Beal's potential return could shape the Suns' lineup, affecting options like Royce O’Neale and Grayson Allen. Meanwhile, Cade Cunningham's calf injury has thrust Dennis Schroder and Marcus Sasser into the spotlight, each delivering mixed results. Jalen Brunson's return to practice offers hope for the Knicks as they navigate injury woes within their backcourt. For the Celtics, Jaylen Brown’s knee injury raises questions about Al Horford's role, while Cameron Johnson's absence opens avenues for Jalen Wilson and Tyrese Martin on the Nets. The situation is fluid as the postseason draws near.

The New York Knicks powered through a challenging game against the Portland Trail Blazers, claiming a 110-93 victory while adjusting to the absence of Jalen Brunson. With Brunson sidelined due to a sprained ankle, OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges, the duo dubbed 'Wing Stop,' each scored 28 points, combining for an impressive 56 points on 23-of-48 shooting. The Knicks, looking to solidify their playoff position, have now won four of their last five games, placing them 3.5 games ahead of the Indiana Pacers for the No. 3 seed in the Eastern Conference.

Anunoby showcased his offensive growth, scoring 23 or more points for the sixth consecutive game. Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau praised Anunoby for expanding his game across various scoring situations, including transition plays and three-pointers. Despite missing key players like Miles McBride and Cameron Payne, the Knicks have displayed resilience, with Delon Wright stepping up in the starting role. Deni Avdija led the Trail Blazers with 33 points, but the Knicks' defensive prowess ultimately prevailed, setting the stage for upcoming matchups against playoff contenders, including the Philadelphia 76ers.

Jalen Brunson, the Knicks' All-Star guard, is making solid strides in his recovery from a sprained right ankle, officially cleared for basketball activities. While he refrained from confirming if those activities include full-contact drills, Brunson is optimistic about returning before the playoffs. He emphasized the importance of getting game reps to prepare effectively. Despite the frustration of the slow recovery process, he remains focused on being 100% healthy upon his comeback. Coach Tom Thibodeau noted that Brunson's return would significantly enhance the team's capabilities.

Since Brunson's injury, the Knicks have managed a 6-5 record, though they have had troubling losses against lower-ranked teams. Brunson commended the team's resilience, highlighting how they bounce back from defeats. With a target of 65 games to qualify for end-of-season awards, he is eyeing a potential return by April 5 against Atlanta to meet this goal. Regardless, his health remains the priority as he strategizes his return to the court.

Jalen Brunson is optimistic about his recovery from a sprained right ankle, stating he feels better and is moving more freely. He has been sidelined for 12 games, but the New York Knicks' All-Star point guard aims to return before the playoffs. With eight regular-season games left, Brunson is focusing on regaining full health while expressing a desire to get some game time in before the playoffs.

The Knicks, currently third in the Eastern Conference and having already clinched a playoff spot, have managed a 6-5 record without their star. Coach Tom Thibodeau emphasizes that the team must play collectively to fill Brunson's absence, as they deal with injuries to backup point guards. Brunson, needing four more games to qualify for end-of-season awards, remains determined to prioritize his health over individual accolades.

Tyler Kolek has emerged as a key contributor for the New York Knicks in March, particularly with Jalen Brunson sidelined due to injury. In a recent win against the Milwaukee Bucks, Kolek recorded five points and five assists, showcasing his ability to manage the game effectively. His impressive assist-to-turnover ratio this month, leading the NBA with 31 assists to just one turnover, highlights his efficiency and growth as a rookie.

Despite limited playtime earlier in the season, Kolek has stepped up significantly, averaging nearly 17 minutes over the last four games. His background in the G League has equipped him well for this moment, allowing him to adapt quickly and contribute meaningfully to a Knicks team dealing with injuries in their backcourt.