Jalen Brunson Cleared to Play for Knicks vs Celtics on February 8, 2026
Jalen Brunson will be on the court when the New York Knicks face off against the Boston Celtics on February 8, 2026, at TD Garden. The guard is officially active, slated for the starting lineup, and carries no injury designation for this highly anticipated matchup. There are no indications of a minutes limit or any playing restrictions, signaling his full availability and readiness to contribute from tip-off.
No Injury Concerns for Brunson
In the latest injury report released by the Knicks, Jalen Brunson is not listed as injured, questionable, or out. Pre-game lineup projections firmly place him at the point guard position, solidifying expectations that he will play against the Celtics. Game previews and betting lines show no movement tied to his availability, which typically reflects that a player is fully expected to participate. While last-minute lineup changes can occur, current information strongly suggests Brunson will be in action without any limitations.
Quick Recovery After Ankle Injury
Brunson previously dealt with a right ankle sprain sustained during a game in Sacramento on January 14. He played only five minutes before exiting and missed the subsequent contest against Golden State. At that time, the team labeled him day-to-day, but his performances since returning have alleviated any concerns. Notably, on February 4, he delivered an impressive stat line of 42 points, eight rebounds, and nine assists in a double-overtime victory over Denver. Since his return, he has continued to log heavy minutes without reappearing on the injury report, demonstrating a swift and effective recovery.
Why Brunson's Availability Matters
The importance of this matchup is underscored by the standings, with the New York Knicks entering the game at 33-19, holding third place in the Eastern Conference, while the Boston Celtics stand at 34-18, securing the second spot. Brunson's contributions are pivotal, as he is averaging approximately 27.1 points, 6.1 assists, and 3.3 rebounds per game this season. His shot creation and decision-making abilities are crucial in shaping the Knicks' half-court offense, particularly in clutch moments. Additionally, he has shown the capability to score consistently against Boston's switching defense, providing New York with a reliable option in what could be a preview of a postseason contest. When Brunson is off the floor, the Knicks' offense has exhibited signs of slowing down, highlighting his essential role in tonight's game.
How to Confirm Player Status Before Tip-Off
To verify player status before the game, checking the official Knicks injury report or the NBA game page shortly before tip-off remains the simplest method. An "active" designation or no listing typically signals availability, while any late changes would be reflected there first. As of now, Brunson is set to lead the Knicks into TD Garden with no injury concerns and his usual responsibilities intact, poised to make a significant impact in this critical Eastern Conference showdown.
