Knicks expected to win the bidding war for OG Anunoby

OG Anunoby is an unrestricted free agent this summer. The New York Knicks knew there was a risk involved when they traded for him in December. He is expected to test his market before deciding where to commit for the next three to four years.

The New York Post's Stefan Bondy recently said on the "HoopsHype Podcast" that Paul George's free agency could dictate the type of contract Anunoby could command.

"One x-factor in the Anunoby sweepstakes is Paul George," Bondy said. "If George doesn’t go to Philadelphia or Oklahoma City, those two teams will have to spend their money to get somebody. Anunoby is an attractive piece to bring to those two teams. It depends on the market, but I’d be very surprised if the Knicks don’t bring Anunoby back one way or another."

Anunoby is key to the Knicks' chances of contending in the near future. His three-and-d style of play is perfect for Tom Thibodeau's system. We are yet to see how dominant his frontcourt partnership with Julius Randle could be. Both are strong forwards who can score on multiple levels.

Of course, the Knicks will likely be wary of Anunoby's injury history. Following his trade from the Toronto Raptors, he played only 23 regular-season games and missed four of New York's five playoff games against the Indiana Pacers.

Still, if Anunoby is healthy, the Knicks will be a contending team. That's why they expect to push through the potential bidding war for his services. Anunoby could potentially receive a slight overpay to stay in the Big Apple. That's why his decision to test the free agent market was smart. He knew there would be contending teams with cap space looking to upgrade the wing position.

After trading away RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley to bring Anunoby to New York, the Knicks are committed. Unfortunately for the front office, that commitment could cost it more than it would like. 

Still, if Anunoby's future with the franchise gets the Knicks to a conference finals next season, the additional cap hit will be worth it.