OG Anunoby Finding His Groove: A Key Hope for Knicks’ Future

OG Anunoby continues to solidify his role as a vital piece for the New York Knicks, demonstrating his all-around game and providing a glimmer of hope for the team’s aspirations. While the 27 points he scored in Saturday’s loss to the Utah Jazz didn’t mark a career high, it was his best performance in 39 regular-season games with the Knicks since being acquired from Toronto last January.

Anunoby was exceptional, hitting a season-high 7-of-12 from beyond the arc while adding three steals and two blocks to his stat line. His ability to contribute across the board has been key for the Knicks, even as they continue to find their rhythm early in the season.

Coach Thibodeau Praises Anunoby’s Aggressiveness

Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau emphasised the importance of Anunoby’s decisiveness on the court.

“It was a complete game,” Thibodeau said after the loss. “I want him to be aggressive. When he plays like that, it’s much more effective for all of us. When he’s decisive with his cuts, ready with the ball, balanced, and making shots… he’s in a great rhythm.

“And when he’s running the floor—whether to get into space or attack the rim for easy shots—it opens up a lot. I want him to keep building on that.”

Anunoby’s career-high 36 points, notably, came against the Knicks in November 2021 when he was still a member of the Toronto Raptors.

Anunoby’s Scoring and Impact

This season, Anunoby has been averaging 17.8 points per game, ranking third on the team. In November, he stepped up even further, averaging 20.0 points over 10 games heading into Monday’s matchup against the Denver Nuggets.

The Knicks struggled offensively in Utah, shooting just 39% from the field despite committing nine season-low turnovers. Thibodeau pointed out the importance of relying on defence, rebounding, and ball security in games where shots aren’t falling.

“I think we took care of the ball,” Thibodeau said. “To stay in the game on nights when you do not shoot well, you need defence, rebounding, and a low turnover rate. If you can do those three things, you’ll have a chance to win regardless of your shooting.”

Injury Updates

The Knicks might be without Karl-Anthony Towns (bruised left calf) and Miles McBride (knee), while Aaron Gordon (calf) has been ruled out for the Nuggets.

As the Knicks look to improve on their 9-7 start, OG Anunoby’s emergence as a two-way force remains a bright spot and a reason for optimism. If he can maintain his current form, he could play a pivotal role in helping the He could be crucial to the Knicks’ ability to compete in the fiercely competitive Eastern Conference if he can keep up his current level of play.