Jalen Brunson Fully Available for Knicks vs Bucks Showdown
In a significant boost for the New York Knicks, star guard Jalen Brunson is confirmed to play against the Milwaukee Bucks on February 27, 2026. Brunson is not listed on the injury report and is fully available for the crucial Eastern Conference matchup, which tips off at 8:00 PM ET at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee.
Critical Timing in the Eastern Conference Race
The game arrives at a pivotal stage of the NBA season, with the Eastern Conference standings tightly contested. Every result carries immense weight as teams jockey for playoff positioning. Brunson's presence provides the Knicks with enhanced offensive control and late-game reliability, factors that could prove decisive in this high-stakes encounter.
Brunson's Dominant Season and Milwaukee Record
Brunson has been a model of consistency for New York this season, averaging 26.7 points, 6.1 assists, and 3.4 rebounds per game. His performance against Milwaukee has been particularly stellar, with a career-high average of 36.5 points per game against the Bucks—his best against any opponent in the league. This historical dominance becomes even more relevant given Milwaukee's current injury situation.
Detailed Injury Status and Recovery
Earlier in the season, Brunson experienced ankle issues, including an incident in January where he left a game against the Sacramento Kings after turning his ankle. However, he has since returned to full action without any reported setbacks. Recently, he scored 20 points in a game, demonstrating comfort and form. While he missed time last season with a similar injury, there are no current indications of any lingering effects.
New York Knicks Injury Report
The Knicks enter the game with most of their core rotation players available, providing lineup stability. The players listed as out are not part of the primary rotation:
- Pacome Dadiet (G League assignment)
- Dillon Jones (two-way contract, G League)
- Miles McBride (pelvic core muscle surgery)
- Kevin McCullar Jr. (two-way contract, G League)
Key contributors such as Mikal Bridges, Karl-Anthony Towns, OG Anunoby, Josh Hart, and Mitchell Robinson are all cleared to play.
Milwaukee Bucks Injury Report
The Bucks face significant absences, most notably two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, who is sidelined with a right calf strain. Other unavailable players include:
- Taurean Prince (neck surgery)
- Alex Antetokounmpo (G League assignment)
- Cormac Ryan (G League assignment)
This situation places additional responsibility on players like Bobby Portis and Kyle Kuzma to step up in Giannis's absence.
Strategic Implications and Matchup Advantage
Brunson's availability grants the Knicks a clear edge in this contest. Combined with his strong track record against Milwaukee and current good form, New York is well-positioned to capitalize. With the Knicks' main players largely fit and the Bucks missing key personnel, this matchup presents a favorable opportunity for the Knicks to secure an important victory in the Eastern Conference race.
