New York star guard Jalen Brunson is likely to be out for a significant duration following an ankle injury during overtime in the Knicks’ 113-109 loss against the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday evening.

Coach Tom Thibodeau reported post-game that Brunson was under evaluation by the medical team.

“It’s a tough injury. We expect him to be out for a little bit,” said forward Josh Hart.

Brunson, currently seventh in the league for scoring with 26.3 points per game, and eighth in assists at 7.4 per game, rolled his right ankle with 1:24 left in overtime after landing on the foot of Lakers guard Austin Reaves during a drive towards the basket. Although he received help from teammates and stayed in the game to complete two free throws tying the score at 107, he ultimately went to the locker room.

Brunson led the Knicks with 39 points and 10 assists, helping to push the game into overtime after the Lakers mounted a comeback from a significant deficit in the fourth quarter.

“His mental toughness is incredible. I’m not surprised by how he played throughout the game. He keeps fighting,” Thibodeau stated regarding Brunson, noting he shot 13 of 26 from the field and made 12 of 13 free throws.

Brunson’s injury comes as the Knicks commence a five-game West Coast trip. Currently, the Knicks hold a 40-22 record and are positioned third in the Eastern Conference, facing the Clippers next before competing against the Sacramento Kings, Portland Trail Blazers, and Golden State Warriors in the following games.

“It’s next man up. He’s a vital part of our team. We need to maintain our grit and perform effectively,” commented center Karl-Anthony Towns.