Anunoby Opts Out, Secures New Deal
Two days ago, NBA forward OG Anunoby declined to exercise the player option for the final year of his current contract. Today, he has finalized a five-year, $212.5 million deal (approximately NT$6.97 billion) with the New York Knicks.
Contract Details
The Athletic and ESPN reported the agreement just an hour before the NBA draft commenced. Despite the Knicks’ recent acquisition of Mikal Bridges from the Brooklyn Nets in a trade involving multiple draft picks, Anunoby chose not to enter free agency when the NBA market opens on June 30th. Instead, he decided to remain with the Knicks.
Anunoby’s Contract History
- Previous Team: Toronto Raptors
- Previous Contract: 4-year, $72 million signed in 2020
- Declined Option: $19.9 million player option for 2024-25 season
Impact on the Knicks
Since being traded from the Raptors to the Knicks, Anunoby has significantly bolstered the team’s performance. The Knicks have a 20-3 record in games he has played.
Performance Highlights
| Season | Games Played | Points Per Game | Rebounds Per Game | Assists Per Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023-24 | 50 | 14.7 | 4.2 | 2.1 |
| Career Avg | 418 | 12.0 | 4.3 | 1.6 |
Health Concerns
One major concern for Anunoby is his health. Over the past three seasons, he has missed 76 games due to injuries. In the 2019 playoffs, he underwent an emergency appendectomy, preventing him from participating in the Raptors’ championship run.
Playoff Contributions
During the 2024 playoffs, Anunoby was crucial in defeating the Philadelphia 76ers. However, he struggled with a hamstring injury in the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Indiana Pacers.
Career Overview
Anunoby, who turns 27 next month, has played seven seasons in the NBA. In his career, he has averaged 12.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 1.3 steals per game over 418 games.
Looking Ahead
Anunoby’s new contract with the Knicks is a testament to his value and impact on the court. As he moves forward, both he and the team will aim to overcome his injury challenges and build on their recent successes.(Voslot)