JUST IN: Knicks Star Predicted to Sign $145 Million Deal

Following their second consecutive appearance in the Eastern Conference Semifinals, the New York Knicks are now navigating critical decisions in free agency, particularly concerning starting forward OG Anunoby.

Anunoby, who has a $19.9 million player option for the 2024-2025 season, is anticipated to decline it in favor of pursuing a long-term contract. ESPN’s Bobby Marks predicts that Anunoby will indeed opt out and secure a significant deal, estimating it to be a four-year agreement worth $145 million.

“Anunoby, who turns 27 in July, is at the peak of his career, and the Knicks traded for him with a long-term vision,” Marks commented in a June 17 column on free agency projections. “As one of the premier free agents available, he is expected to receive a lucrative contract, likely from New York.”

New York acquired Anunoby from the Toronto Raptors midseason, parting ways with Immanuel Quickley and RJ Barrett in the trade. Anunoby’s decision on his player option is due by June 25. During his 23 regular-season games with the Knicks, he averaged 14.1 points, 4.4 rebounds, 1.7 steals, and 1 block per game.

There Are Injury Concerns with Anunoby

The potential concern surrounding OG Anunoby’s future with the New York Knicks revolves largely around his availability due to injuries, which impacted his participation in 50 out of 82 games this season.

Bobby Marks suggests that any substantial contract, such as the predicted $145 million deal, should include clauses related to games played to mitigate these durability concerns. Marks proposes a structure where the first three seasons would be fully guaranteed, with a provision that if Anunoby plays more than 65 games in any of those seasons, the fourth-year salary of $40.1 million would become guaranteed.

Despite his injury challenges, Anunoby’s impact on the court is evident. According to statistics from Cleaning the Glass, the Knicks have a remarkable 26-5 record when he plays. His presence significantly bolstered the team’s defensive performance, with opponents averaging just 101.8 points per game when he was on the floor compared to 117.2 points per game when he was off.

While Anunoby has undoubtedly earned a lucrative contract, the ultimate decision on whether the Knicks will commit to a deal of the magnitude proposed by Marks will heavily depend on their assessment of his injury history and the inclusion of protective clauses in the contract.

Knicks Optimistic They Can Re-Sign Anunoby

OG Anunoby’s impending free agency has become a focal point for the New York Knicks, who are reportedly confident in their position to retain him despite expected interest from other teams.

 

OG Anunoby is expected to receive at least $35 million annually on his next contract, per @MikeAScotto

“ From executives I’ve talked to around the league, Anunoby’s floor appears to be $35 million, and his ceiling is a max contract. Philadelphia will be looking for a 3-and-D… pic.twitter.com/cQZJImmybS

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 17, 2024

According to SNY’s Ian Begley in a June 12 mailbag, there is a sense of optimism within the Knicks’ front office regarding both Anunoby and another player, Hartenstein. Despite acknowledging the competition for Anunoby’s services, insiders from the organization expressed earlier in the offseason that they felt well-positioned in negotiations. This sentiment was shared after the Knicks’ playoff exit in the second round against Indiana.

Michael Scotto, speaking on the “HoopsHype Podcast” with Ian Begley and Stefan Bondy from The New York Post, reported a widespread expectation across the league that Anunoby will ultimately return to New York. The focus now lies in determining the financial terms, with executives suggesting Anunoby’s contract could range from a minimum of $35 million to a maximum deal.

Stefan Bondy concurred, expressing surprise if the Knicks do not manage to retain Anunoby, emphasizing the pivotal role he is expected to play in the team’s future plans. This sentiment is echoed by Knicks fans who are eager to see Anunoby continue in the blue and orange after the team traded away Immanuel Quickley and RJ Barrett to acquire him.

Anunoby’s free agency will undoubtedly shape the Knicks’ offseason strategy until a resolution is reached, highlighting the significant stakes involved for both the player and the team’s long-term ambitions.