Is Jalen Brunson playing tonight vs the Phoenix Suns? Latest update on the New York Knicks star’s injury report (January 17, 2026) | NBA News
The New York Knicks will not know Jalen Brunson’s status until close to tip-off when they face the Phoenix Suns on January 17. Brunson is listed as questionable because of a right ankle sprain, and the final call will be made after pre-game warmups at Madison Square Garden.New York enters the game in a difficult stretch and needs clarity at point guard. Brunson has been central to the Knicks’ offense all season, and his absence would force another adjustment against a Suns team that beat them earlier this month.
How Jalen Brunson’s Injury Happened and Where Things Stand
Jalen Brunson injured his right ankle five minutes into the January 14 loss to Sacramento. He did not return that night and also missed the January 15 game against Golden State. Early updates described the injury as day-to-day, which suggested he might return quickly.That optimism cooled when the Knicks released Friday’s injury report with Brunson still marked as questionable. Head coach Tom Thibodeau has said the team will wait until shootaround and warmups before deciding. The priority remains avoiding further damage rather than pushing him back during a regular-season slump.
New York Knicks’ Recent Results Without Jalen Brunson
The New York Knicks have lost seven of their last nine games. Jalen Brunson’s numbers explain why his absence has been felt. He is averaging 28 points and six assists while carrying a large share of the team’s scoring and playmaking.New York went 1-1 in the two games Brunson missed earlier in November, but the most recent games showed how limited the offense can look without him. Miles McBride and Jordan Clarkson have taken on more minutes in the backcourt, while the team has struggled to maintain consistency.Injuries have added to the problem. Josh Hart is out with an ankle issue, and Mitchell Robinson remains day-to-day, leaving the rotation unsettled.
Phoenix Also Monitoring Key Players
The Phoenix Suns are dealing with injury questions of their own. Devin Booker is questionable with a left ankle sprain, while Jalen Green remains out and will miss his 31st straight game because of a hamstring injury.These teams met on January 9 in Phoenix, where the Suns won 112-107. Brunson scored 27 points in that game, even in the loss, showing how much his presence matters in close matchups.Also read: Phoenix Suns vs New York Knicks injury report: Injured and questionable players, head-to-head records, team stats, and more (January 17, 2026)
What the Night Could Look Like
If Jalen Brunson plays, the Knicks regain their primary scorer and organizer. If he sits, McBride is expected to start, with added frontcourt depth coming from Yabusele. Either way, the 7:30 PM ET tip-off carries weight for both teams as they try to steady their seasons.
