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The New York Knicks are the second-best squad in the Eastern Conference with their 7-3 record, and new head coach Mike Brown is figuring out what makes this team work. Part of that is the defensive output of OG Anunoby.
Brown spoke with the media on Tuesday after the Knicks took down the Memphis Grizzlies, and he claimed that Anunoby is not just an All-Star talent, but someone who should be contending for Defensive Player of the Year. This is yet another strong reminder of just how much Brown believes in his team.
“OG is an All-Star, in my opinion. Not only is he an All-Star, he’s an all-defensive performer. In my opinion, he should have an opportunity, amongst others in our group, to fight for Defensive Player of the Year in the league,” Brown said.
Mike Brown on OG Anunoby:
"OG is an All-Star, in my opinion. Not only is he an All-Star, he's an all-defensive performer. In my opinion he should have an opportunity amongst others in our group to fight for Defensive Player of the Year in the league" pic.twitter.com/RPeGgSszsv
— Knicks Videos (@sny_knicks) November 12, 2025
Anunoby is starting his third season with the Knicks and is currently producing 18.0 points per game, along with his 6.0 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 2.2 steals. He has become a focal point and vital part of the Knicks’ defensive plans, and Brown believes he can achieve even more than he has.
For the last few years, New York’s head office has been hard at work attempting to build a much deeper roster. They don’t want the team to rest solely on the shoulders of Jalen Brunson.
When Brown was hired, the Knicks wanted him to make the most of the roster he had, and that is exactly what he’s doing. The team added a few extra pieces in the summer, but they have mostly relied on the players who have been in New York for the last few years.
Brown isn’t the only one noticing how well Anunoby is playing, and he could truly be in contention for some of the honors that his head coach listed.
NEXT: Jalen Brunson Made Franchise History On Tuesday