Introduction to Cameron Payne’s Injury
The New York Knicks’ backcourt took another hit on Wednesday night when point guard Cameron Payne exited early with a sprained ankle suffered during the first half of their 126-113 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers.
Mar 22, 2025; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks guard Cameron Payne (1) dribbles up court in front of Washington Wizards guard Bub Carrington (8) and forward Justin Champagnie (9) during the first quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
The Impact on the Team
His exit thins a position that was already at its limit. All-Star Jalen Brunson is making his way back from a sprained ankle that will likely keep him out through at least next week. Backup Miles McBride is dealing with a groin issue that has kept him out each of the last three games, though head coach Tom Thibodeau expressed some hope that he could return as soon as Friday in Milwaukee against the Bucks.
Alternative Point Guard Options
If he is unable to go, though, the Knicks will have to remain reliant on their fourth-string point guard in rookie Tyler Kolek, who tied a season-high with 18 minutes on Wednesday night. He went scoreless with seven assists while struggling defensively against Clippers veteran star James Harden.
“They kept coming at us with that high two-man game,” Kolek said. “I’ve got to be better about defending that.”
Previous Performances
Payne had started the previous three games, recording 13 points with seven assists in Saturday’s win over the Washington Wizards. He had 15 points on 6-of-9 shooting in 18 minutes on Wednesday night before the injury.
Backup Plans
Seldom-used veteran Delon Wright, who had appeared in just six games and averaged four minutes per night with the Knicks since being acquired from the Milwaukee Bucks on Feb. 6, played 12 minutes on Wednesday night and would serve as Kolek’s backup on Friday.
“Just next guy get in there,” Thibodeau said (h/t NY Post). “I thought Tyler played well in the first half. And then Delon, who’s the next guy, get in and get the job done. That’s a big part of your approach, your team’s approach. I think there’s going to be adversity. You have to be mentally tough. You have to be able to get through that. You have to stay disciplined.”
Conclusion
The injury to Cameron Payne adds to the list of challenges the New York Knicks are facing, particularly in the point guard position. With Jalen Brunson and Miles McBride already dealing with injuries, the team will have to rely on less experienced players like Tyler Kolek and Delon Wright. The team’s ability to adapt and overcome these injuries will be crucial in their upcoming games.
FAQs
For more on Cameron Payne and the Knicks, visit AMNY.com
Q: What is Cameron Payne’s current injury?
A: Cameron Payne suffered a sprained ankle during the first half of the Knicks’ game against the Los Angeles Clippers.
Q: Who will replace Cameron Payne as point guard?
A: The Knicks will rely on fourth-string point guard Tyler Kolek, with Delon Wright as his backup.
Q: When is Jalen Brunson expected to return?
A: Jalen Brunson is expected to be out for at least next week due to a sprained ankle.
Q: What is Miles McBride’s current status?
A: Miles McBride is dealing with a groin issue and may return as soon as Friday.
