In a crucial game for the New York Knicks, they faced off against the Toronto Raptors. The outcome of this match would hinge on defense, and with Julio Randle out, the Knicks knew they needed their defense to step up if they had any hope of making it to the playoffs this season.
Just in time for this pivotal game, OG Anunoby returned to the Knicks lineup after missing 18 games due to surgery on his right elbow. Despite playing in three games after his return, he continued to battle with elbow inflammation and missed another nine games before being traded from Toronto to New York near the deadline.
Since then, Anunoby has been a defensive force for the Knicks, locking down perimeter players and providing averages of 14.5 points and 4.9 rebounds per game. With every game counting towards their playoff positioning, getting Anunoby back into the lineup will be crucial for New York as they aim to secure a favorable spot in the postseason.
The Knicks are currently tied with Orlando for 4th/5th place in the East and just half a game behind the struggling Cavaliers for third place. With six games remaining in the regular season and only one more opportunity to face off against Toronto before playoffs begin, every game is critical in determining their playoff berth.
