Ranking Bleacher Report’s top 3 Knicks trade targets ahead of deadline
By Allen Settle
Option #1: OG Anunoby, G, TOR
This leads us to our final B/R trade piece suggestion: Raptors star OG Anunoby. This is by far the most intriguing opinion for the Knicks. It also features the loftiest pros and cons.
On one hand, Anunoby is a budding star with sky-high potential. The 25-year-old forward has taken substantial leaps in each of his first six seasons. Now, it appears as though the sky is the limit!
Once a raw prospect with an unrefined offensive game, Anunoby has become a dangerous weapon at all levels. His career 37 percent three-point mark and 18.3 points per game average this season have more than earned the respect of opposing defenders. While his athleticism and six-foot-seven frame combine to make him a tough cover when he attacks the basket.
Better yet is the fact that the former Indiana star’s most valuable skillset is anchored in his defense. The aforementioned combination of length and defense makes Anunoby an absolute nightmare for opposing players. An argument can be made that he is already the best defender in the history of his franchise. He was also a legitimate candidate for the Defensive Player of the Year award last season.
Anunoby would be an awesome addition to the Knicks. His defense would be terrifying alongside Thibodeau’s schemes. And his young age would make him a building block pillar.
However, because his skillset would translate well to all 30 NBA teams, he will be an extremely valuable commodity. In fact, there is credible speculation that Anunoby will fetch a “Donovan Mitchell-like” package if traded.
If New York was unwilling to sacrifice their collection of assets for an established All-Star in Mitchell, would they be wise to do so for a less established Anunoby?