O.G. Anunoby returning to the New York Knicks may not be a lock.
Even though there’s leaguewide expectation that Anunoby will be back with the Knicks it will come down to New York’s offer.
His new deal is reportedly expected to be worth at least $35 million per year this offseason, according to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto.
However, that offer may not be enough for the Knicks to keep him.
ESPN’s Brian Windhorst was on Get Up and said that Anunoby is not ‘thrilled’ with the Knicks’ current offer:
“Let’s keep an eye on that. Most people believe Anunoby will stay with New York, but there have been indications he may want to test the market, because he’s not thrilled with what the Knicks are offering.”
The Knicks own Anunoby’s Bird rights and can offer him a max contract worth more than any other team in free agency. However, if the Knicks don’t elect to offer Anunoby a max contract, then a team with significant cap space could lure Anunoby away from New York.
The Philadelphia 76ers have been linked to Anunoby. They will have the max cap space to make Anunoby a compelling offer if they go in that direction.
The Knicks acquired the 26-year-old from the Toronto Raptors this past season. Despite the Knicks giving up Immanuel Quickley, RJ Barrett and the Detroit Pistons’ second-round pick (No. 31 in this year’s draft), it doesn’t seem like it’s a guarantee that Anunoby will re-sign with the Knicks in free agency.
Anunoby appeared in 23 games this past season for the Knicks and he was limited in the postseason due to a hamstring injury.
Raptors can start negotiating with own free agents
The Raptors are allowed to begin having conversations with pending unrestricted free agents Gary Trent Jr, Garrett Temple and Jordan Nwora.
Toronto will also be allowed to discuss a new contract with restricted free agent Immanuel Quickley. They can sign Scottie Barnes to a contract extension as well.
Have you subscribed to the Raptors Nation YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch interviews, exclusive coverage from events, participate in live shows, and more!