Carmelo Anthony limited in practice; still expected to play Friday in Toronto
By Brad Rowland
With only 4 games remaining in the 2013-2014 regular season and the New York Knicks trailing the Atlanta Hawks by 1.5 games in the race for the 8th and final playoff spot, the last thing New York needs is an injury issue for their best player. However, that is exactly what they are currently dealing with in regard to Carmelo Anthony.
Carmelo Anthony went through a limited practice today. He did not take contact. Will have more on this after we talk to Woodson. #Knicks
— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) April 9, 2014
Ian Begley of ESPN New York (among others) reports that Anthony took part in a limited practice on Wednesday, and that it resulted in absolutely no contact for the 29-year-old forward. Carmelo played a staggering 44 minutes in a loss to the Miami Heat on Sunday, but after two days off, it is a bit of a surprise to see him limited. However, there is a bit of positive thought surrounding his future status.
Mike Woodson said Carmelo hasn't had any additional tests on his shoulder; expects him to play Friday in Toronto.
— Al Iannazzone (@Al_Iannazzone) April 9, 2014
Mike Woodson was quick to alert the media that Anthony is “expected to play” when the Knicks travel to Canada to take on the Raptors on Friday night, and frankly, that is the biggest game of the season for New York. The Atlanta Hawks are in action on Wednesday against Boston, and if they were to go down, the Knicks would be trailing by just 1 game with 4 to play, leaving them with no room for error but still with a legitimate chance at the playoffs.
Without Anthony, the Knicks are rudderless, and it would certainly be a good thing for the league if he could play (and play well) for the remainder of the regular season.