BREAKING: Knicks’ Star enters free agency after $19.9 million contract decision
The New York Knicks have set their sights on former Toronto Raptors forward OG Anunoby as a key target in the NBA free agency. Anunoby played a crucial role for the Knicks in the latter part of the 2023-24 season. However, he has declined his $19.9 million player option, making him an unrestricted free agent, according to The Athletic’s Fred Katz.
Anunoby’s decision opens up various possibilities. He can negotiate a new contract with the Knicks or explore offers from other teams. The hope is that his decision to decline the player option will lead to a restructured contract with New York.
Anunoby was instrumental in the Knicks’ late-season surge. After being traded from the Raptors, the 6’7″ forward averaged 14.1 points, 4.4 rebounds, 1.7 steals, and 1.0 blocks per game, shooting an impressive 39.4 percent from three-point range. He also played a significant role in the playoffs until a hamstring injury limited his performance in the later stages.
Ideally, Anunoby and the Knicks will reach an agreement that allows him to continue being a vital two-way player for the team. If not, there are alternatives. ClutchPoints’ Knicks Beat Reporter Drew Maresca suggested two potential paths.
OG Anunoby has declined his $19.9 million player option for next season, a league source tells The Athletic, an expected move. Anunoby will now officially become an unrestricted free agent this summer. Free agency begins June 30.
— Fred Katz (@FredKatz) June 24, 2024
Firstly, the Knicks could pursue a sign-and-trade deal involving Anunoby. Maresca mentioned, “If Anunoby is dissatisfied with the Knicks’ initial offer or if both parties cannot agree on terms, New York could consider a sign-and-trade with the Los Angeles Clippers for Paul George. The Clippers are more likely to pay Anunoby than George, given Anunoby’s relative youth.”
Secondly, the Knicks could look to draft a player similar to Anunoby, developing him into a 3-and-D role. This approach would allow the team to cultivate a younger talent with a similar skill set.
The Knicks’ priority remains to work out a deal with Anunoby, ensuring he continues to contribute to their success on both ends of the court.
Why OG Anunoby should resign with Knicks despite contract move
OG Anunoby’s presence on the New York Knicks is crucial not just for his on-court production but also for team chemistry. Both Jalen Brunson and Donte DiVincenzo have highlighted the importance of the Knicks’ unity in their successful regular season.
Knicks Fans, be prepared for this reality:
OG Anunoby Re-Signs (likely scenario):
— “Overpay, Injury-Prone, Not Worth It”OG Anunoby Signs Elsewhere:
— “Knicks are Poverty, Nobody Wants to Play There, Stuck in Mediocrity” pic.twitter.com/e8WjIKmNft— KnicksMuse (@KnicksMuse) June 24, 2024
Brunson remarked in April, “It’s a mixture of the chemistry we have, a mixture of the coaches and how they want us to have a mentality. Guys just have that mindset. It’s how most of us grew up as basketball players.”
DiVincenzo emphasized the genuine camaraderie in the locker room, saying, “I think we genuinely like each other. It’s not BS, it’s not for the cameras — I think everybody in this locker room likes each other and everybody in this locker room wants everybody else to succeed. That’s the rarity here.”
He continued, “It’s not ‘I’m trying to get mine, I hope you succeed as well.’ It’s ‘I hope you succeed, and you’re gonna help me succeed at the same time.’ And I think that’s the overall mindset in this locker room and it’s helped us get 50 wins this year.”
Anunoby has been an integral part of this team culture. Once he returns healthy, he can help New York seek redemption for their second-round exit in 2024. His final decision in the upcoming NBA free agency period in July will be closely watched.