Knicks will look back on this one move if they win 2026 NBA Finals

For the first time since 1999, the New York Knicks are in the NBA Finals.  Previously, they were the first 8-seeded team to reach the finals, but were stopped by the San Antonio Spurs. After defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers in sweeping fashion, the Knicks are on a roll.  The Knicks have won 11 straight games. The current longest win streak is 15 games, held by the 2017 Warriors.

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The Trade That Made the Knicks ELITE

Dec 27, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA. New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby (8) does an interview after a victory over the Atlanta Hawks in the fourth quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images

But, there’s more to this.  A simple call to the Toronto Raptors may have changed the Knicks. The OG Anunoby for RJ Barrett trade may have been one of the biggest reasons why the Knicks are so successful. 

The Knicks sent RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickly, and a 2024 second-round pick (via Detroit) for Anunoby Precious Achiuwa, and Malachi Flynn.

OG Anunoby has been a force in these playoffs, and in the Cleveland series, OG averaged 17.3 points per game and shot 52% from the field. 

All-Defense team snub?

Anunoby was named Second Team All-Defense this year.  Many of his teammates and Head Coach Mike Brown feel the league got this one wrong.

In the Cavaliers series, OG Anunoby averaged 4.5 defensive rebounds, 1.6 steals/charges drawn, 2.8 deflections, and 1.6 forced turnovers per game.

Jan 5, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA. New York Knicks head coach Mike Brown talks to forward Og Anunoby (8) in the first half against the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

Anunoby‘s Impact for NYK

In addition, Anunoby defensively helped the Knicks stop any momentum Cleveland tried to present.  In Game 4, the game was 25-19 New York with 3:53 left in the 1st quarter.  Fast forward to the 3rd quarter with 10:13 and the Knicks lead was 20 (71-51). Largely due to Anunoby’s defense and the Knicks capitalizing on Cleveland’s lackluster defense in transition.

Offensively, Anunoby had a 74% true shooting percentage heading into Game 4.  Anunoby is making the right plays at the right time for New York, and the offense is feeding off his great play.

This trade for Anunoby has helped the Knicks defense become elite. They can now defend opponents top players and score at a championship level.

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