A superstar isn’t the answer for the Knicks, but OG Anunoby could be
Despite having their name involved in potential deals for stars like Damian Lillard, Joel Embiid, and James Harden, the only deal the New York Knicks need to pursue is one for Toronto’s OG Anunoby.
One of the last remaining pieces from the Raptors’ 2018-19 championship season, OG has become an elite, All-NBA defender who can knock down threes (he shot 38.7% last season) and has a no-nonsense attitude that would fit in perfectly with a Jalen Brunson-led squad.
At 25 years old, Anunoby can slide into either forward position, including backing up for Randle in a small ball line-up.
Would the Toronto Raptors trade OG Anunoby to the New York Knicks?
Amidst rumblings of discord between the younger players and veteran leadership, the Raptors clearly are ready to shake things up. Last week they lost Fred VanVleet to Houston for a whopping $130 million, three-year deal, and they fired ex-Coach of the Year Nick Nurse at the end of 2022-23.
After a painful play-in tournament exit last season, OG could be viewed as part of both the old regime and a potential piece of the future to pair with bright prospect Scottie Barnes. Either way, the Raptors are rumored to want as many as three first-round picks in return for OG.
The Knicks can afford it, but with the uncharacteristically patient and sober approach of Leon Rose, will they spring for OG? To add to the context, OG recently parted ways with Klutch Sports and signed with new representation at the Knick-friendly CAA. This gives all the more reason to believe the deal can happen. If the Raptors want IQ, Quentin Grimes, and the picks, it might not happen. But if there’s some wiggle room, don’t be surprised if this match is finally made.
