Jalen Brunson injury reportedly believed to be sprained ankle, 'optimism' it is nothing worse

The Knicks have likely lost Jalen Brunson in the immediate future, but the team is reportedly hopeful that they have avoided the worst.

According to NBA insider Chris Haynes, New York is "optimistic" that Brunson's injury is "only" an ankle sprain, which seems to suggest that X-rays were negative on the point guard's right ankle, and no structural damage is detected.

Brunson rolled his ankle while drawing a foul on a drive to the basket during overtime against the Lakers on Thursday night, spoiling what had been a heroic effort by the Knicks star. Brunson was up to 39 points and 10 assists before the injury, which left him on the floor and in agonizing pain. He had a heavy limp but stayed at the free throw line, sank his foul shots, and the Knicks immediately fouled to get a timeout and allow Brunson to gingerly make his way to the locker room.

Brunson would obviously be a devastating loss for the Knicks, as was apparent after his exit on Thursday. With a chance to still win the game, New York's offense couldn't get anything going after Brunson departed, and LA grabbed the win for its eighth consecutive victory.

Meanwhile, the Knicks will have to recover quickly, as they take on the Clippers Friday night to continue their west coast swing, one that may not see Brunson play in again at all.