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By Anne Erickson
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The New York Knicks don't have to search far to find their biggest advantage heading into the 2026 season.
They already know what Jalen Brunson brings. They already know Karl-Anthony Towns can anchor the frontcourt. But OG Anunoby might be the player who determines just how special this team can be.
Anunoby has always been valued for the things that don't always grab headlines. He's a strong defender, a physical presence and the type of player coaches trust in big moments.
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Last season, though, he showed there was more to his game.
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With the Knicks going after a championship, Anunoby became a much bigger part of the offense while still doing the defensive work that made him one of the league's most respected two-way players. He averaged 16.7 points per game, but his impact went beyond the numbers.
Now comes the challenge. Can he bring that same level of play again?
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The Knicks don't need Anunoby to take over games like Brunson. They don't need him taking 20 shots every night. That's not what makes him valuable.
They need him to be the player who makes things hard for opponents.
Guard the best wing. Make the extra pass. Get a big stop when the game is on the line. Those are the moments where Anunoby changes games.
New York also added Jack Kayil and Tyler Nickel, but rookies could have a tough time finding consistent minutes on a team with championship expectations. Kayil, a young German guard, could continue developing overseas, while Nickel brings another shooting option after a strong college career.
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The Knicks' rotation is already built around proven players. That makes Anunoby even more important.
If he can stay healthy and continue playing at the level he reached last season, New York has the kind of balance every contender wants.
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