With OG Anunoby absorbing trade interests around the league, an Eastern Conference team loaded with assets has sneaked to check his availability and is reportedly willing to pull the trigger.
According to SNY’s Ian Begley, the New York Knicks notably tapped the Toronto Raptors back in December about Anunoby, days before the former had a sizzling eight-game win streak in the said month.
But as told by Begley, one enticing detail about the conversation was that the Knicks are “comfortable” in offering multiple first-round picks for the wingman.
“Also worth noting: in their conversation about Anunoby prior to the winning streak, New York was comfortable offering multiple first-round picks for Anunoby. I don’t think these talks were at an advanced stage at that point. But all of the above strongly suggests that team decision-makers have, so far, focused on improving the roster for at the Feb. 9 trade deadline.”
Given their disappointing zigzagging progress, the Raptors are facing a huge dilemma in which direction they will proceed. Currently 12th in the tight competition of the Eastern Conference with season heading to the middle portion, their inconsistencies have created raucous trade noises around – wherein Anunoby emerged as an interesting component.
Anunoby, 25, stands as one of the most highly coveted wings in the association given his defensive reputation, improving offense and that immense potential to become an All-Star. This season, he is averaging a career high 17.3 points and 2.1 steals while grabbing 5.6 boards and 2.0 assists.
But him, being a favorite of team president Masai Ujiri wherein previous reports suggest that it will take a haul to snag him, several teams interested will truly need to place a bountiful offer to Toronto.
Thankfully enough, the Knicks have preserved their treasured first-round picks, wherein every single year until 2029, they have an available selection for the rookie draft.
With that being said, they may seem to easily afford losing several picks just to acquire Anunoby, who can significantly create instant impact and versatility for them under defensive-minded coach Tom Thibodeau.
Holding a 26-23 card, New York currently sits at seventh of the East and is still capable of rising by being just 3.0 wins away from the fifth-seed. Few roster tweaks can allow them to elevate themselves ahead of the trade deadline, and potentially having Anunoby will truly be wondrous in their competitive case.
