The New York Knicks have a significant NBA free agency target in former Toronto Raptors starting forward OG Anunoby. Anunoby played a crucial role for the Knicks during the latter part of the 2023-24 season; however, he has made a pivotal contract decision that could impact his future with the team. According to The Athletic’s Fred Katz, Anunoby has declined his $19.9 million player option and will officially become an unrestricted free agent.
Anunoby’s decision to decline his player option opens up opportunities for him to negotiate a new contract with the Knicks or entertain offers from other teams. Ideally, this move will lead to a straightforward renegotiation of his contract with New York.
Anunoby proved instrumental in the Knicks’ late-season surge. Since joining from the Raptors, the 6’7″ forward averaged 14.1 points, 4.4 rebounds, 1.7 steals, and 1.0 blocks per game, shooting an impressive 39.4 percent from three-point range. He played a crucial role in the playoffs until a hamstring injury limited his contributions in the later stages.
The hope is that Anunoby and the Knicks can come to terms for him to continue as a key two-way player for the team. However, if an agreement cannot be reached, Knicks Beat Reporter Drew Maresca outlined two potential alternatives. Firstly, the Knicks could engage in a sign-and-trade scenario involving Anunoby, possibly with the Los Angeles Clippers for Paul George, as Maresca suggested.
Secondly, Maresca proposed that the Knicks could draft a player similar to Anunoby, focusing on developing a new talent into a 3-and-D player.
Anunoby’s presence on the Knicks extends beyond statistics; his role in team chemistry and camaraderie has been crucial. Teammates like Jalen Brunson and Donte DiVincenzo highlighted the Knicks’ strong sense of unity, which contributed significantly to their successful regular season.
DiVincenzo emphasized the genuine camaraderie in the Knicks’ locker room, where mutual support and collective success are paramount. This cohesion has been instrumental in the team’s achievements, including reaching 50 wins in the season.
Anunoby’s return to full fitness will be eagerly anticipated by the Knicks as they aim to make amends for their second-round exit in 2024. His upcoming free agency decision in July will be closely watched across the NBA.
Christopher Smith, a sports journalist covering NBA, NCAA Basketball, NFL, and NCAA Football for ClutchPoints, contributed to this article.
