The top five places for OG Anunoby to go if he declines the Knicks’ offer
Originally published by Eddie Bitar on Fadeaway World | Last modified on May 27, 24
This summer, two-way sensation OG Anunoby has a player option, which he will undoubtedly turn down in favor of a long-term contract. Anunoby was acquired by the New York Knicks this season in a significant trade for RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley, and they want to pursue his return. Anunoby is thinking about examining other offers, though, before deciding.
This summer, Anunoby might get a four-year contract worth about $160 million. If he doesn’t like what the Knicks have to offer, he might end up at one of the top five destinations.
The Philadelphia 76ers
OG Anunoby should choose the Philadelphia 76ers over the Knicks if he declines their offer. The Sixers may offer Anunoby the highest-paying contract available, a four-year agreement worth $182 million, if they have enough cap room. The only key player with a contract for the upcoming season is Paul Reed, as it is quite likely that the 76ers will re-sign Maxey to a max deal.
By forming a potent three with Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, Anunoby might establish himself as a high-impact player who could take Tobias Harris’ spot, who is most likely not in the 76ers’ plans. The 76ers have been waiting for the summer to come so they can begin trimming their roster.
The Sixers’ chances of winning a championship would be increased by Anunoby’s ability to spot up for threes and provide excellent defense to go along with Embiid’s dominance in the paint and Maxey’s spectacular playmaking. With this deal, the 76ers would be far closer than ever before, even though it won’t ensure a championship.
Oklahoma City Thunder
If Anunoby declines the Knicks’ offer, the Oklahoma City Thunder would be a serious contender for his services. The Thunder may need to move Josh Giddey and possibly Lu Dort this summer in order to create place for Anunoby. Given that he only averaged 8.7 points and 2.1 assists per game during this year’s playoffs, Giddey has been heavily involved in trade rumors.
With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren at the center, OKC has a potential core despite their second-round exit this season. Anunoby would complement Jalen Williams perfectly, adding to the team’s defensive strength and adaptability. Giddey is already viewed as the odd man out, so replacing Dort with Anunoby—a better two-way player and shooter—would be a calculated move.
Anunoby, who is 26, fits in nicely with the Thunder’s youthful, gifted team, making them a serious contender in the league. Before a deterioration begins to show signs, he has at least seven years of extremely good play left. This means the Thunder can replace their starting lineup and try to make the Finals again the following season.
The Indiana Pacers
If Anunoby turns down the Knicks’ offer, he might consider joining the Indiana Pacers. Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam have led the Pacers to great strides this season, despite their 0-3 deficit against the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Finals.
Siakam and Anunoby back together may create a potent starting lineup that is bolstered by Myles Turner and Andrew Nembhard. The Pacers may think about moving Jarace Walker and Benedict Mathurin to make cap room for Anunoby while also making sure the player is satisfied with the deal made. This suggests that the top offensive unit in the NBA may get even more support.
The Pacers’ lineup would be strengthened by Anunoby’s offensive and defensive versatility, increasing their prospects of emerging as a regular competitor in the Eastern Conference. Anunoby is a spot-up scorer, but he averaged 14.7 points per game this season and his offensive skills are only improving.
Orlando Magic
If OG Anunoby declines the Knicks’ offer, the Orlando Magic would be a top choice. With an energetic core led by Franz Wagner and All-Star Paolo Banchero, the Magic had an incredible run in the playoffs, forcing the Cavaliers to seven games in the opening round. The Magic, who are renowned for their third-best defense, could easily incorporate Anunoby into their lineup.
Alongside Banchero, Anunoby would be a perfect match as the squad probably moves on from Jonathan Isaac, strengthening both their attacking and defensive powers. The Magic don’t frequently have the opportunity to sign a big free agent, but their performance under head coach Jamahl Mosley has elevated the team to a competitive position in the East.
In addition to enhancing the Magic’s reputation as a strong defensive club, Anunoby’s signing would greatly advance their postseason goals. With Jalen Suggs, Wagner, Anunoby, and Banchero, the Magic could be a serious threat in the Eastern Conference with just one more point guard.
Spurs of San Antonio
If OG Anunoby turns down the Knicks’ offer, the San Antonio Spurs would be a great fit. Anunoby, who is renowned for his superior defensive abilities, might flourish in Gregg Popovich’s system, which is renowned for bringing out the best in players.
With Victor Wembanyama as his second star, Anunoby would have a special chance to raise his stature in the league. With Popovich’s guidance, Anunoby might be able to develop his skills beyond the 3-and-D position and show that he is a capable solo star.
Anunoby would benefit from joining the Spurs in addition to his own personal development and the team’s general progress. Wembanyama and Anunoby would be one of the NBA’s top defensive pairings since they would have complete coverage of the paint and the perimeter. The Spurs may be at a disadvantage in the competition for Anunoby since, of course, they will have to contend with teams that have a considerably better record than them.
