Cameron Payne sidelined by ankle injury, Knicks face point guard crisis

New York Knicks guard Cameron Payne will miss the upcoming game against the Milwaukee Bucks due to a right ankle sprain sustained in the first half of their loss to the Los Angeles Clippers. Payne was performing well before the injury, scoring 15 points in 18 minutes, but his absence further strains a depleted Knicks backcourt already missing All-Star Jalen Brunson and backup Miles McBride, who is dealing with a groin issue. Rookie Tyler Kolek is now the only healthy true point guard available, having logged significant minutes and recorded seven assists in the Clippers game. Head coach Tom Thibodeau expressed confidence in Kolek and Delon Wright, who will need to step up as the team navigates this challenging period. The Knicks currently hold a 42-23 record in games Payne has played this season, highlighting his importance to the team. The status of Jalen Brunson and McBride remains uncertain as the team prepares for the next match.