OG Anunoby, known for his defensive prowess and growing offensive game, has been making waves in the NBA with his steady progression and consistent performances. While Anunoby has spent his career with the Toronto Raptors, rumors have swirled in the past about potential trades involving the forward, including interest from the New York Knicks. Hypothetically speaking, if Anunoby were to take over as the Knicks’ starting small forward, the team would gain an elite 3-and-D wing, a player who could significantly improve both sides of the court. Here’s what Knicks fans would need to know about OG Anunoby potentially taking over that critical role.
The first thing that stands out about OG Anunoby’s game is his elite defense. Anunoby is widely regarded as one of the best perimeter defenders in the NBA. His combination of size, length, and athleticism allows him to guard multiple positions, from smaller guards to larger forwards. Standing at 6’7″ with a 7’2″ wingspan, Anunoby has the physical tools to disrupt opposing offenses, using his long arms to contest shots, deflect passes, and make life difficult for even the league’s best scorers.
In New York, Anunoby’s defensive capabilities would be invaluable. The Knicks have historically prided themselves on defense, and under head coach Tom Thibodeau, the team’s defensive identity has only strengthened. Adding a player like Anunoby, who can lock down the opposition’s best wing player, would give the Knicks an additional edge, particularly in a conference that features talented wings like Jayson Tatum, Jimmy Butler, and Jaylen Brown.
Anunoby’s ability to switch onto different positions seamlessly would also bolster the Knicks’ versatility on defense. He could take on the toughest defensive assignments, whether it’s guarding a shifty point guard or a physical power forward. His defensive IQ, combined with his physical gifts, makes him a game-changer on that end of the floor.
While Anunoby initially entered the league as a defense-first player, his offensive game has steadily improved over the years. His ability to shoot from beyond the arc makes him a prototypical 3-and-D player. During the 2022-2023 season with the Raptors, Anunoby shot over 38% from three, proving himself as a reliable floor spacer who can punish teams for leaving him open on the perimeter.
The Knicks have often struggled with consistent three-point shooting, and Anunoby’s presence would immediately address this issue. His ability to knock down catch-and-shoot threes would give playmakers like Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle more room to operate. Opposing defenses would have to account for Anunoby’s shooting, which would create more space in the lane for drives and post-ups.
Beyond his shooting, Anunoby has also developed a more well-rounded offensive game. He’s shown the ability to attack closeouts and finish at the rim, and his mid-range jumper has become more reliable. While he’s not typically a player who creates his own shot consistently, Anunoby has shown flashes of growth in that area as well. Under Thibodeau’s system, which emphasizes ball movement and finding the open man, Anunoby’s expanding offensive skill set could flourish.
If OG Anunoby were to take over as the Knicks’ small forward, it would provide a perfect complement to their current core. The Knicks already have strong offensive weapons in Julius Randle and Jalen Brunson, who can create their own shots and facilitate for others. Anunoby, with his emphasis on defense and floor spacing, wouldn’t need to dominate the ball to make an impact, which makes him an ideal fit alongside New York’s ball-dominant players.
Additionally, Anunoby’s presence would take some pressure off RJ Barrett, who has been tasked with guarding top wing players in the past. While Barrett is a capable defender, having Anunoby handle the toughest assignments would allow Barrett to focus more on his offensive game, where he’s continuing to develop as a scorer and playmaker. This could make the Knicks a more balanced team, with fewer gaps on either end of the court.
Anunoby’s versatility would also allow Thibodeau to experiment with different lineups. In small-ball lineups, Anunoby could shift to the power forward position, giving the Knicks the ability to play faster while maintaining their defensive intensity. His adaptability opens up a wide range of possibilities for the coaching staff, allowing them to adjust to different matchups throughout the season.
One of the often-overlooked aspects of Anunoby’s game is his leadership and experience. Having been a key part of the Raptors’ championship team in 2019, Anunoby brings a winning mentality and playoff experience to any team he joins. His quiet demeanor on the court doesn’t overshadow the fact that he leads by example, playing hard on both ends of the floor and consistently doing the little things that contribute to winning.
For the Knicks, who are striving to become consistent playoff contenders, Anunoby’s championship pedigree would be a valuable addition. He understands what it takes to compete at the highest level and could help instill a stronger winning culture in the locker room. While the Knicks made the playoffs in 2021 and 2023, they are still searching for the consistent success that has eluded them for years. Anunoby’s presence could be a key factor in taking them to the next level.
If OG Anunoby were to take over as the Knicks’ small forward, it would be a transformative move for the franchise. His elite defensive skills, coupled with his improving offensive game, would make him a perfect fit alongside New York’s current roster. Anunoby’s ability to guard multiple positions, stretch the floor, and provide playoff experience would address several of the Knicks’ weaknesses and help them compete more effectively in the increasingly competitive Eastern Conference.
While this remains a hypothetical scenario for now, Knicks fans can dream about what a player like OG Anunoby could bring to the team. If he were to join the Knicks, he could be the final piece they need to elevate themselves from playoff hopefuls to legitimate contenders in the East.