When fans get excited about the New York Knicks, the two most popular names that are of focus are captain Jalen Brunson, and All-NBA center Karl-Anthony Towns,
For all intents and purposes, though, the Knicks have a Big Three on their roster. And the third star on the team just happens to be one of the best two-way players in basketball.
New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby and center Karl-Anthony Towns against Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo. Brad Penner-Imagn Images Brad Penner-Imagn Images
Since the trade that brought him to New York, OG Anunoby has showed his penchant not just for scoring at a high clip, but also as a dynamic defender.
He's been able to guard athletic wing players and strong post-men in a way that few Knicks stars have been able to do in the past. And it's what makes him a proven commodity for the current team.
"He's into the bodies, and when he's like that, he just covers so much ground," Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau said. "His timing, you can't throw the ball over him. He challenges shots great. He's a guy with great, great instincts."
But what has been the reason for his dynamic two-way game? What about Anunoby makes him a nightmare for opposing guards?
In the end, it's the preparation he does off the court that sets himself well on it.
"I find out the matchup, watch the film, and then also (use) my memory from playing them before-just from watching games, seeing what they like to do," Anunoby explained. "Just trying to make them uncomfortable."
Anunoby has led the way for New York in their improved defensive metrics. While their efficiency ratings are near the bottom half of the league, the team's defensive NET rating is in the top-10.
The former Raptor is a big part of that.
Yes with all the success he's been able to put up, Anunoby has yet to make an All-Star appearance and has only been on an All-NBA Defensive team just once in his career.
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To his teammates, that will eventually come as he continues to play well.
"I think we all know in this locker room the talent OG possesses. I think he's one of the best two-way players in the NBA. Defensively, offensively... he affects the game," Towns said. "I'm just glad that he's getting this moment here in the Mecca in New York to show the world the talent that we all see.
"He has All-Defensive Teams in his future. So we'll make it up."
New York is considered a top team in the NBA for a reason. It's the third part of their Big Three, though, that has them in title contention.
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This story was originally published December 8, 2024, 7:40 AM.