Why The New York Knicks Do The Deal
While the Raptors could use a starting-caliber big man, the Knicks have two.
Thus far, Isaiah Hartenstein has been outplaying Robinson in 2022-23. He’s got a more well-rounded game, as well – Hartenstein can shoot at least a little, and he shows unusual passing touch for a player his size.
If the Knicks are picking between their two bigs, they’re likely to pick him.
With that in mind, they could probably use a 3-and-D wing in Anunoby’s mold. This deal allows them to shift RJ Barrett down to the 2: suddenly, they’ll be oversized instead of the opposite. Given Julius Randle and Jalen Brunson’s defensive limitations, that’s a plus.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: OG Anunoby, Toronto Raptors & New York Knicks Updates
Moreover, the Knicks have the touches Anunoby is allegedly craving in Toronto to give. If he does have an extra layer of playmaking in his game, he’ll have an opportunity to showcase it in New York. If he doesn’t, he’s still an extremely valuable player that the Knicks need.
Assuming all goes well, they won’t have to make the decision to cut him loose any time soon.
