The New York Knicks and Phoenix Suns are reportedly two of the teams in hot pursuit of one of the most sought-after players on the NBA trade market.
The Knicks and Suns have had solid seasons, but it is fair to say both have performed below what they hoped for in 2022-2023. The two teams have identical 27-25 records and reside in the seventh spot in the NBA standings for their respective conferences.
After signing free agent Jalen Brunson and homegrown star RJ Barrett to massive contracts in the summer, the hope was that the New York Knicks would be much better than two games over .500 in year three of the Tom Thibodeau era as head coach. As for the Suns, while they had lofty expectations at least they have a solid excuse for their underwhelming record since top star Devin Booker has been sidelined for well over a month with a groin injury.
Related: New York Knicks targeting sharpshooter ahead of NBA trade deadline
Both teams could use some help — even when fully healthy — if they hope to have impactful runs in the postseason. And it seems they have the same player in mind to give their rosters a major boost in the second half of the season.
New York Knicks still among teams in pursuit of Toronto Raptors star OG Anunoby
While this NBA trade deadline is expected to be a bit more quiet compared to the last few years, the Raptors have the ability to make it very interesting. The team is in the midst of a down season and has several players that contending teams around the NBA see a great deal of value in.
The player that may be the most sought-after, and at a price more teams can afford, is defensive ace and evolving young star OG Anunoby. Reports have suggested the Raptors are looking for several first-round picks in a deal for the 25-year-old, and there was rumored to be a team that did offer the team three opening-round selections in recent weeks.
On Monday, The Athletic’s NBA insider Shams Charania reported that the New York Knicks was the team that made that major offer that the Raptors have yet to accept. However, he also added that the Phoenix Suns and a few of their eight first-round picks through 2030 could also be used in a potential trade for OG Anunoby.
Earlier this month, it was revealed that Phoenix’s new owners, the Ishibia brothers, have let their front office know they can make use of their picks to make moves for winning players. Even if it means adding a notable amount of money to their payroll.
- OG Anunoby stats (2022-2023): 16.9 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 2.0 APG, 2.1 SPG, 37% 3PT
It was reported yesterday, that the Memphis Grizzlies may be with the Suns and Knicks as another organization that could make a serious run at OG Anunoby before the Feb. 9 NBA trade deadline.