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The New York Knicks were on the right path, but they needed a wing-stopper to get to the next level.
That’s why they didn’t hesitate to pull the plug on RJ Barrett to land OG Anunoby, even if they would also have to lose Immanuel Quickley — who was looking for a contract extension — in the meantime.
It didn’t take long before Anunoby made his presence felt on the court.
He was an instant plug-and-play guy for Tom Thibodeau, and he proved to be one of the most impactful additions in recent team history almost right away.
That impact was on full display with a tweet shared by KnicksMuse.
Apparently, Anunoby became the first player to log a box plus-minus of at least +300 in his first 20 games with a new team.
OG Anunoby is the ONLY player in NBA History with a +300 +/- or better in the first 20 games with a new franchise. pic.twitter.com/AZcj2eCet6
— KnicksMuse (@KnicksMuse) June 15, 2024
The Knicks took a bit of a chance by trading for Anunoby, who was on an expiring deal.
Still, it seems like they made a strong case to hold onto him for years to come, and they’re firmly expected to make him a Godfather-like offer in free agency to make sure he stays in the Big Apple for years to come.
Anunoby is one of the best defensive forwards in the game, and he has the ability to guard one through five.
He’s also made big strides as a scorer, knocking down corner threes and being aggressive as a driver and a slasher.
The Knicks still need another star, but they’ve found their defensive anchor, and they’re not letting him go.
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