Towns Active; Knicks Shorthanded for Season Opener

Karl‑Anthony Towns was cleared to start the Knicks’ season opener at Madison Square Garden after a right quadriceps strain produced multiple status changes (questionable → downgraded to doubtful → upgraded to questionable → active). OG Anunoby is also active despite a left ankle sprain, but New York will be without Josh Hart (lumbar spasms) and will manage Mitchell Robinson’s left ankle, creating immediate rotation strain. The Cavaliers are shorthanded as well, with Darius Garland and Max Strus out and De’Andre Hunter listed as questionable. Towns, who averaged 24.4 points and 12.8 rebounds in 72 games last season, could face a minutes restriction but his availability is a major lift. New depth pieces — including Jordan Clarkson, Guerschon Yabusele, Landry Shamet and second‑year center Ariel Hukporti — figure to absorb extra minutes as the Knicks’ bench is tested early. Both teams enter the opener with compromised rotations, shaping a closely contested matchup despite star availability.