OG Anunoby, New York Knicks player, could sign a new contract with the team worth around $35 million.
In the June 16 episode of The HoopsHype Podcast, NBA insider Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, along with New York Knicks beat reporters Ian Begley of SNY and Stefan Bondy of the New York Daily News, delved into the Knicks’ plans ahead of the draft and free agency.
A key topic was OG Anunoby, who is expected to decline his player option and enter unrestricted free agency. The discussion also covered Isaiah Hartenstein’s options and other Knicks-related matters such as handling pending free agents and potential draft moves.
The episode began with a focus on Anunoby’s free agency, with Scotto noting that the widespread belief is Anunoby will likely re-sign with the Knicks, although the contract’s value is still uncertain.
“The leaguewide expectation is that OG Anunoby will return to the Knicks. The question is, for how much?” Scotto stated. Insights from NBA executives suggest Anunoby’s contract will start at a minimum of $35 million annually, with the potential for a max contract if market competition intensifies.
“Two general managers told me they’d pay Anunoby $35 million annually and that a max would be tough because of his injury history,” Scotto added.
Begley pointed out that any offer exceeding $35 million would likely result from competitive bids from other teams rather than the Knicks’ valuation of Anunoby.
“If they go well beyond $35 million, it’s going to be because of the Philadelphia 76ers, Oklahoma City Thunder, or another team with cap space coming in with a significant offer that forces the Knicks to exceed that,” Begley explained.
Given the significant trade package the Knicks sent to the Raptors in December, including RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley, the Knicks are expected to retain Anunoby.
“If there’s a curveball there and Daryl Morey comes in and throws a big offer at Anunoby that forces the Knicks to go over the top, I think they have to because of what they gave up in the deal to get Anunoby here,” Begley remarked. “They’re committed to having him here long-term.”
Sportsbooks with best Odds: