Knicks vs. Nuggets: Will Jalen Brunson Return for Nikola Jokić's Visit?

Jalen Brunson was in and out ... mostly out ... of the New York Knicks' lineup over last week's road trip. Will he be back in action when the Denver Nuggets come to town?

Is Jalen Brunson, dealing with foot soreness, ready to put his best foot forward? Some signs are pointing in a positive direction.

As the New York Knicks prepare to welcome the Western Conference-leading Denver Nuggets to Madison Square Garden (1 p.m. ET, MSG), Brunson's status has been a major storyline after he played only 19 minutes of the team's recent four-game road trip. Optimism reigned in head coach Tom Thibodeau's comments, as the New York boss reported that Brunson "feels good" and would partake in pregame warmups. If all goes well, Thibodeau declared "he's a go," per SNY.

Brunson's official status is questionable on the New York injury report. Since the Knicks took home a thrilling victory over the Miami Heat on Mar. 3, Brunson has missed five of the ensuing six games entirely due to a foot injury that briefly forced him into the New York locker room. He played 19 minutes in the first half of last Thursday's loss in Sacramento but went back into the locker room during the latter stages. 

[[UPDATE: 12:20 p.m. ET]]: The Knicks announced that Brunson will be available for Saturday's game.

While the Knicks (41-30) held their own in Brunson's absence (going 2-2 with consecutive wins over the Los Angeles Lakers and Portland Trail Blazers), the team would undoubtedly like to have their cherished point guard and offseason addition firing on all cylinders as they attempt to lock down a spot amongst the top six Eastern Conference playoff teams. 

---

Geoff Magliocchetti is on Twitter @GeoffJMags

Want the latest in breaking news and insider information on the Knicks? Click Here.

Follow AllKnicks.com on Twitter.