NEW YORK — The New York Knicks faced a setback on Monday night as star player Karl-Anthony Towns was unable to participate in their match against the Orlando Magic due to discomfort in his right knee. Towns, who stands as the league’s top rebounder, was deemed unfit to play after showing signs of injury towards the conclusion of the Knicks’ recent defeat against Chicago on Saturday. Initially listed as questionable for the game, the Knicks ultimately made the decision to rest him.

In his inaugural season with the Knicks, Towns has been a significant contributor, boasting an impressive average of 25.3 points and 14 rebounds per game. With his absence, Jericho Sims was tapped to step up and take on the starting center role for the night.

On the flip side, the Orlando Magic are grappling with even more severe injury challenges, as they remain without key players including Paolo Banchero, Jalen Suggs, Franz Wagner, and Moritz Wagner. The ongoing absence of these players adds to the difficulties faced by the Magic as they aim to remain competitive in the season.