OG Anunoby's run of injuries could give Knicks headache this offseason

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 3/19/24

The New York Knicks acquired OG Anunoby on Dec. 30. The veteran forward's defensive ability was seen as a major boost for Tom Thibodeau's team. With a player option for next season, the Knicks knew they may need to re-sign him during the offseason as they look to keep him around long-term.

However, Anunoby has had a troublesome elbow injury since joining New York. He missed 18 games between Jan. 29 and March 10. He returned to the rotation for three games, but missed New York's win over the Golden State Warriors on Monday.

And according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, who spoke on Monday's "NBA Countdown," Anunoby's absence will likely last more than one game.

“I’m told that OG Anunoby is going to be out more than just [Monday night], that right elbow has flared up again,” Wojnarowski said. “They need it to calm down. How long he is out is unclear, but it’s certainly a concern for this Knicks team that does not know the status of Julius Randle moving forward, and right now, they will miss OG Anunoby more than just this game.”

The Knicks certainly didn't plan for Anunoby's first few months to unfold like this. His ability to gel with his new teammates has been seriously hampered. They will now hope he can be back to full fitness ahead of the postseason as they look to make a deep run in the Eastern Conference.

Yet, if Anunoby's injury issues persist, the Knicks will have a tough decision to make. They traded away RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley to bring Anunoby to the Big Apple. Logically, the front office will need to extend him a contract offer. Losing him so soon after acquiring him would be a disaster. But that means the Knicks could be rolling the dice on his long-term availability.

Knicks fans will be hoping Anunoby's injury isn't one that will last for a prolonged period. The concern level should be low if he can recover and remain healthy. However, if he misses a chunk of the playoffs and doesn't reach a high level, New York may have some tough negotiations ahead of them.

More must-reads: