The New York Knicks have maintained their position as a top-three seed for most of the 2024-25 season. Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns have been the driving forces behind their success. Brunson, in particular, has shouldered a significant offensive load, posting a usage rate of 29.0% this season. However, the Knicks faced a major challenge when Brunson suffered an ankle sprain after an awkward landing on Austin Reaves on March 6. Many expected the team to struggle without their star point guard. Despite this setback, the Knicks have held steady, going 7-5 in the 12 games Brunson has missed. OG Anunoby has been key to the Knicks being steady.
OG Anunoby Flourishing Off Knicks Decision
Mikal Bridges has received praise for his elevated play during this stretch, averaging 22.2 points and 5.2 assists on impressive shooting splits of 55.0/37.0/92.3. Yet, Anunoby deserves just as much recognition. He has been the second-leading scorer behind Towns, averaging 22.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2.3 steals, and 0.9 blocks on 47.0/38.3/88.3 shooting splits.
A Three-Level Scoring Threat
Anunoby has expanded his offensive repertoire, proving he is more than just a defensive specialist. He has developed into a legitimate three-level scorer, aggressively attacking the rim and getting to the free-throw line 5.0 times per game. Additionally, he is launching 6.8 three-point attempts per game and converting at a 38.3% clip.
Currently, Anunoby is riding a six-game streak of scoring at least 20 points. Over his last 15 games, he has fallen below that mark just three times. His ability to create shots and score efficiently has been a pleasant surprise for the Knicks, especially considering his five-year, $212.5 million contract signed last offseason.
If Anunoby continues this level of production, the Knicks will have multiple offensive options entering the playoffs. His emergence allows Brunson to ease back into action, reducing the pressure on him to carry the offense immediately upon return.
Defensive Resurgence Since the All-Star Break
While Anunoby’s scoring has been a revelation, the Knicks’ defense has also shown significant improvement since the All-Star break. The return of Mitchell Robinson has played a key role in the team’s defensive resurgence.
Robinson has appeared in 13 games since the break, and during this span, the Knicks have climbed to sixth in defensive rating. This is a notable jump, considering they rank 13th overall for the season. One major factor behind this improvement is the team’s ability to disrupt passing lanes. The Knicks are averaging 9.5 steals per game during this stretch, the second-highest mark in the league.
OG Anunoby’s Defensive Contributions to the Knicks
Anunoby has also played a critical role in the Knicks’ defensive success. Over the last 13 games, he has averaged 2.2 steals and 0.9 blocks, showcasing his ability to impact the game on both ends. His defensive versatility allows him to guard multiple positions, making him invaluable in Tom Thibodeau’s system.
While Robinson provides rim protection, Anunoby’s ability to force turnovers and contest shots on the perimeter has solidified the Knicks’ defensive identity. Whether the defensive improvement is due to Robinson’s presence, Brunson’s absence, or a renewed team commitment, the Knicks have looked more like a classic Thibodeau-coached squad in recent weeks.
Looking Ahead to the Playoffs
With Brunson’s return on the horizon, the Knicks will soon see how their recent defensive improvements hold up with their star point guard back in the lineup. If Anunoby maintains his scoring efficiency while continuing to anchor the defense, the Knicks will have a well-rounded roster capable of making a deep playoff run.
His evolution into a consistent scoring threat provides the team with a dynamic offensive option beyond Brunson and Towns. Meanwhile, his defensive presence remains a cornerstone of the team’s identity. As the postseason approaches, Anunoby’s ability to excel on both ends of the court could be the key to the Knicks’ championship aspirations.
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