Knicks may cut ties with OG Anunoby in favor of Pelicans’ $197 million All-Star | Sporting News

The New York Knicks are no longer pretenders after catching fire between mid-November and early December. 

However, the organization could elevate its roster to new heights by acquiring a 6-foot-6 New Orleans Pelicans stud.

“The Knicks have had an impressive start to the season, sitting at 14-9 and boasting one of the most efficient offenses in the league,” Fadeaway World’s Fran Leiva wrote Sunday.

“With Jalen Brunson leading, and Karl-Anthony Towns contributing 25.2 points and 13.2 rebounds, the Knicks are showing they can compete in the East with the top teams. 

“OG Anunoby has been a game-changer on both ends, with his defensive presence and ability to contribute offensively, as seen in his recent 25-point outing against Charlotte.”

“This trade package could land them Zion Williamson, who, when healthy, is one of the most dominant paint scorers in the league.” 

“Pairing Zion with Brunson and Towns could give the Knicks a Big Three that’s capable of dominating inside and out. Zion’s ability to draw defenses into the paint would open up the floor for Brunson’s mid-range game and Towns’ outside shooting.”

“However, there are risks. Anunoby is a crucial part of the Knicks’ defensive identity, and Zion’s fit with Towns might raise questions defensively, especially against teams with stretch bigs or high-speed offenses.” 

“Still, the ceiling for a lineup featuring Zion, Brunson, and Towns is undeniably high and could elevate the Knicks from a playoff team to a legitimate contender in the East.”

Leiva’s proposed trade would require the Knicks to send Anunoby, a 2025 first-round pick (via the Detroit Pistons), and a 2025 first-round pick (via the Washington Wizards) to the Pelicans for Williamson. 

Williamson, who averages 22.7 points and 8.3 rebounds this season, is a solidified superstar in the NBA. Unfortunately, though, the Duke product is dealing with another significant injury. 

A left hamstring strain has sidelined Williamson for 19 games, one of the main reasons the Pelicans are currently 15 games below .500. 

The former lottery pick’s forceful style of play and disregard for his well-being on the hardwood has resulted in a career stunted by injuries. 

However, if the Knicks want to take a massive gamble, they may consider moving on from a valuable 3-and-D threat in Anunoby and adding Williamson to the mix this season.

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