New York Knicks‘ second-year wing Quentin Grimes suffered a setback after his brief return from a foot injury.
Grimes sat out Tuesday’s practice and is doubtful to play in the Knicks’ season opener in Memphis against the Grizzlies. According to SNY’s Ian Begley, New York coach Tom Thibodeau said that Grimes is set to meet with a Knicks’ training and medical staff to determine his status for Wednesday’s game.
Grimes was a limited participant during Monday’s practice, which implies his absence on Tuesday is concerning.
“The idea behind is to get to the point where it doesn’t reoccur. So if we have to be a little bit more patient now, that’s what we’ll do. It’s a long season, so get healthy completely. When that happens, then we’ll move forward. There’s no rush. He has to get back to a certain level health-wise with what we’re doing… It’s a well thought-out plan. Just let it work its course.”
Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau via NY Post
The left foot soreness has been bothering Grimes since the start of the training camp. He returned Friday in the Knicks’ preseason finale against the Washington Wizards. The 22-year-old guard was held scoreless in 16 minutes.
Without Grimes, another opportunity looms for Cam Reddish, who is set to become a restricted free agent after not getting a contract extension from the Knicks. Reddish struggled in the preseason, hitting an awful 21.4 percent from the field. He later said he’s still figuring things out.
Reddish has his work cut out for him. Making the most out of the limited opportunities is paramount. If he doesn’t pan out, the Knicks just wasted a first-round pick on him.
Meanwhile, Obi Toppin got his clearance to suit up Wednesday after a freak accident that led to an ankle sprain during the Knicks’ 105-89 win over the Wizards.
Toppin stepped into a fan at the Madison Square Garden while running along the sideline. The electric forward was one of the few bright spots in the Knicks’ second unit during the preseason. He posted 11.5 points and 3.8 rebounds in 20.7 minutes off the bench. His outside shot remains a work in progress (23.5 percent on 4.3 attempts) but his consistent diet of highlight dunks still got him to a solid 53.8 shooting percentage overall.
His growth and playing time will be scrutinized this season, with Julius Randle looking rejuvenated and ready to make amends after a dispiriting performance last season.
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