News Now NBA Cup: Knicks’ OG Anunoby is having a….
**NBA Cup 2024: Knicks’ OG Anunoby is Having a Breakout Moment**
As the NBA Cup enters its most intense phase, one name rising above expectations is New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby. Known for his defensive prowess and ability to impact the game without necessarily being the focal point of the offense, Anunoby has emerged as a key figure in the Knicks’ surprising run in the inaugural NBA Cup. The 2024 season was expected to be a learning year for New York, but thanks in large part to Anunoby’s all-around play, the Knicks are exceeding preseason expectations, and the 26-year-old forward is establishing himself as one of the league’s top two-way players.
### A Look at Anunoby’s Transformation
Since arriving in the NBA in 2017 as a highly touted prospect out of Indiana, Anunoby has been lauded for his defensive potential. But it wasn’t until he joined the Knicks in a trade earlier this year that the true extent of his game began to show. While his reputation has always been centered around his perimeter defense and his ability to guard multiple positions, Anunoby’s offensive game has grown by leaps and bounds.
Through the first few weeks of the NBA Cup competition, Anunoby has showcased an improved shooting touch, with his three-point shooting now a major weapon in the Knicks’ arsenal. His consistency from deep has helped spread the floor for New York’s high-octane offense, making life easier for star players like Julius Randle and Jalen Brunson. Anunoby is currently shooting an impressive 41% from three-point range, significantly boosting his offensive value.
But it’s not just his shooting that has caught the attention of fans and analysts alike. Anunoby has been a constant presence on the boards, providing New York with much-needed rebounding support in a crowded and competitive conference. His ability to box out and fight for position has allowed the Knicks to secure valuable second-chance opportunities while minimizing those for opponents.
### Defense: The Heart of Anunoby’s Game
Anunoby has always been regarded as one of the premier defenders in the NBA, and he has continued to live up to that reputation in the NBA Cup. Standing at 6-foot-7 with a 7-foot-2 wingspan, Anunoby is built for the modern NBA, where versatility on defense is key. He has taken on the challenge of guarding some of the league’s top scorers and has consistently held his own, whether matched up against elite wings like Jimmy Butler, Jayson Tatum, or even larger, stronger forwards.
His defensive metrics are off the charts. Anunoby’s defensive rating is among the best in the league, and his ability to guard multiple positions—from point guards to power forwards—has made him an invaluable asset for Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau. His active hands, ability to switch on pick-and-rolls, and knack for getting steals have made him a nightmare for opposing offenses.
Most notably, Anunoby’s ability to lock down ball handlers in isolation situations has given the Knicks a weapon to throw at the best offensive players in the league. His poise and discipline on defense allow him to shut down driving lanes and force turnovers. Against the Miami Heat in the group stage of the NBA Cup, Anunoby was tasked with slowing down Butler, a player known for his ability to take over games. Anunoby’s shutdown defense was one of the key factors in the Knicks’ win, limiting Butler to just 18 points on 7-of-21 shooting.
### The Knicks’ Surprise Success in the NBA Cup
When the NBA announced the new in-season tournament format, many assumed the teams with the most established stars would be the early favorites. The Los Angeles Lakers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Phoenix Suns were among the top teams expected to make deep runs. The Knicks, while a talented squad, were not viewed as one of the frontrunners for the NBA Cup title.
Yet, thanks to contributions from players like Anunoby, New York has proven that they are capable of competing with the best of the best. The team has embraced Thibodeau’s defensive-minded philosophy while also expanding their offensive playbook. Players like Randle and Brunson have been steady scorers, but it’s been Anunoby’s all-around game that has allowed the Knicks to match up favorably against some of the league’s top contenders.
New York’s ability to close out games has been another area where Anunoby has made a significant impact. Whether it’s hitting timely three-pointers or making key stops on defense, he’s shown a knack for being in the right place at the right time during clutch moments. His leadership on the court has been evident, and it’s clear that the Knicks are rallying around his energy and two-way play.
### A Bright Future Ahead
While Anunoby’s contributions have been a major part of the Knicks’ success in the NBA Cup, this is just the beginning of what could be a standout season for him. His development into a more complete offensive player, paired with his elite defensive skills, has made him one of the most well-rounded forwards in the league.
Looking ahead, the Knicks have positioned themselves as a team on the rise, and Anunoby will be at the center of their plans for future success. With the combination of his defensive versatility, improved scoring, and leadership, he’s quickly becoming one of the faces of the franchise. If Anunoby can continue to elevate his play and lead the Knicks to a deep run in the NBA Cup—and beyond—his profile could rise to new heights.
In a league full of high-flying superstars, it’s players like OG Anunoby who are quietly making a massive impact, proving that two-way players are more important than ever in today’s game. As the NBA Cup continues to unfold, all eyes will remain on Anunoby and the New York Knicks, a team that might just be a lot closer to championship contention than many expected.
