New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby has decided to decline his player option for the 2024-25 NBA season, making him an unrestricted free agent. This move, reported by Fred Katz of The Athletic, positions Anunoby as one of the most attractive players in the upcoming free agency market.
Background and Contract Details:
- Current Contract: Four-year, $72 million contract signed in December 2020 with the Toronto Raptors.
- Player Option: Anunoby declined the $19.9 million player option for the 2024-25 season.
- Expected New Deal: Anunoby is anticipated to secure a new multi-year agreement, potentially worth nearly double his current salary in its first year, in light of the increased salary cap ($141 million for the 2024-25 season).
Career Highlights:
- Drafted: 23rd overall in the 2017 NBA Draft by the Toronto Raptors.
- Development: Under coaches Dwane Casey and Nick Nurse, Anunoby developed into a premier 3-and-D wing.
- Championship: Part of the Raptors team that won the 2019 NBA Championship (missed the playoffs due to an emergency appendectomy).
Impact on the Knicks:
- Trade: Anunoby was traded to the Knicks, significantly enhancing their season.
- Performance:
- Averaged 14.1 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game in 34.9 minutes for the Knicks.
- Helped the Knicks outscore opponents by 21.7 points per 100 possessions during his minutes on the floor.
- Notable defensive contributions and floor spacing (39.4% from 3-point range).
Team Dynamics:
- Improved Record: The Knicks went 26-6 with Anunoby in the lineup, transforming into a title contender.
- Defensive Assignments: Took on key defensive roles, relieving pressure on other perimeter players.
- Transition Game: Enhanced the Knicks’ transition offense with his defensive disruptiveness.
Concerns:
- Injury History: OG Anunoby has missed 76 games over the last three seasons, including 32 games last season due to elbow surgery and a hamstring strain.
Free Agency Outlook:
- Potential Suitors: Teams with significant cap space, including the Philadelphia 76ers, could be interested in acquiring Anunoby.
- Knicks’ Retention Efforts: The Knicks may attempt to re-sign Anunoby despite his medical history, given his impact on the team’s performance.
Anunoby’s decision to test free agency opens up a compelling narrative for the offseason, with many teams likely vying for the versatile forward’s services. The Knicks, having benefitted greatly from his contributions, will have to navigate a competitive market to retain him.
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