Knicks Still Perfect With 'Freak of Nature' OG Anunoby In Lineup
What a difference a week makes in New York.
After a sluggish finish to 2023, the New York Knicks stand as one of the hottest teams in the NBA. New York is undefeated in the calendar year to date and made its loudest statement yet on Friday with a 128-92 dismantling of the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center. The three-game winning streak has coincided with the arrival of former Toronto Raptor OG Anunoby, who was brought over in last weekend's deal that sent RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley up north.
USA TODAY SPORTS
Anunoby is already making strong impressions in his time with the Knicks, including on star guard Jalen Brunson, who was wowed by the wing's defensive prowess.
"He uses his length really well," Brunson said of Anunoby via SNY after Wednesday's win over Chicago. "He's able to be physical without fouling. Dude's just a freak of nature. I mean I'm watching the same thing you guys are watching and you're just like 'Oh, wow okay.' It's just a credit to him."
In three games for New York so far, Anunoby has recorded 39 points, 16 rebounds, and five steals. His impact isn't just showing up in traditional stats though, as the Knicks are plus-74 in the 106 minutes that he has been on the floor.
Well known for his defensive capabilities in Toronto, Anunoby has left a sterling impact in the department for the Knicks: New York has allowed an average of only 99.3 points over the past three games, the lowest in the NBA in 2024.
Anunoby and the Knicks (20-15) will look to keep the good vibes rolling on Saturday night when they face the Washington Wizards in the nation's capital (7 p.m. ET, MSG).
