OG Anunoby’s impressive late-season surge has caught the attention of his teammates, including Josh Hart, who offered high praise for the New York Knicks forward’s growth. According to Hart, Anunoby has fully embraced his physicality, becoming a dominant force on both ends of the floor.
Earlier this season, Anunoby was content to pass the ball and play within the system. But Hart noticed a shift in his approach, particularly as the season progressed.
“Earlier in the season, he would kick it out. And then he realized he was a 6-8, 245-pound demon,” Hart said, referring to Anunoby’s newfound confidence in using his imposing frame to dominate. This realization has been key to his rise in the second half of the season.
Anunoby’s evolving game has been vital for the Knicks, especially in their recent 110-93 win over the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday night. Anunoby, along with Mikal Bridges, led the charge, scoring 28 points apiece. The Knicks turned an eight-point deficit into a commanding lead after halftime, outscoring Portland 31-15 in the final period.
Bridges stole the spotlight in the second half, scoring 21 of his 28 points in the final two quarters, while New York shot 64% from the field after the break. Hart contributed 14 points, nine assists, and eight rebounds, further cementing the Knicks’ depth as they moved to 47-27 on the season, solidifying their third-place standing in the Eastern Conference.
Despite a solid first-half effort by Portland, led by Deni Avdija’s 33 points and Shaedon Sharpe’s 23, the Trail Blazers faltered in the second half. They were limited to just 14 field goals after halftime and struggled to find their rhythm without key contributors, including injured starters Deandre Ayton and Jerami Grant.
Anunoby’s play during the game was a continuation of his dominant stretch in recent weeks. In the absence of Jalen Brunson, who has been sidelined since March 6 with a sprained right ankle, Anunoby has stepped up as a primary scoring option. Over his last four games, the 25-year-old is averaging 30.5 points per contest, adding even more excitement to the Knicks’ late-season push.
When asked about his mindset entering the playoffs, Anunoby echoed the intensity of the team’s approach. “When the season is done and the playoffs start, it’s time to play the best,” he said, signaling his readiness for the challenges ahead. With his growing confidence and dominance on both ends of the floor, Anunoby’s play could be a major factor in the Knicks’ postseason aspirations.
The Knicks’ win over Portland highlighted their well-rounded roster, with contributions from multiple players. Landry Shamet provided a spark off the bench, scoring 11 points and hitting three three-pointers. Mitchell Robinson, while limited in minutes, added four rebounds and two blocks in just 14 minutes of action.
While New York continues to roll, Portland’s struggles have them on the outside looking in for a play-in spot in the Western Conference. The Trail Blazers have dropped four straight, and their lack of depth in the absence of Grant and Ayton has become glaring.
As the regular season winds down, Anunoby’s newfound aggression and Hart’s praise for his development signal a crucial moment for the Knicks. With their sights set on the postseason, Anunoby’s growth could be the key to New York’s success as they look to make a deep playoff run.
