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OG Anunoby Says He Deserves Defensive Player of the Year: “I Think I Should Win”

OG Anunoby, New York Knicks, NBA
Apr 2, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby (8) drives to the basket against Cleveland Cavaliers forward Isaac Okoro (35) during the first half at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
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New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby isn’t shy about where he stands in the Defensive Player of the Year conversation.

“I think I should be on First Team All-Defense. I think I should win Defensive Player of the Year,” Anunoby told Kristian Winfield of the New York Daily News. “I’ve always felt that way.”

Will OG Anunoby Win a Defensive Player of the Year Award?

OG Anunoby, New York Knicks, NBA
Mar 30, 2025; New York, New York, USA; Portland Trail Blazers guard Anfernee Simons (1) is guarded by New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby (8) during the first half at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

The 27-year-old has long been regarded as one of the NBA’s premier defenders. During the 2022–23 season with the Toronto Raptors, Anunoby was named to the All-Defensive Second Team and finished seventh in Defensive Player of the Year voting.

Now, with the Knicks, he’s making a strong case to take home the league’s top individual defensive honor.

Anunoby has started 70 games this season, averaging 1.5 steals and 0.9 blocks per contest. According to NBA.com, his 3.2 deflections per game ranks 13th among all players who have appeared in at least 40 games. He’s also contesting 3.4 three-point attempts per game — the fifth-highest mark in the league — showcasing his ability to defend on the perimeter as well as inside.

While New York’s defense was inconsistent earlier in the season, the Knicks have steadily improved with Anunoby’s presence in the lineup. Still, the team currently ranks 13th in defensive rating, which could impact his chances of winning the award.

OG Anunoby Faces Strong Outlook for All-Defensive Team Nod

OG Anunoby, New York Knicks, NBA
Mar 25, 2025; New York, New York, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Max Christie (00) looks to drive past New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby (8) in the fourth quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images

Even if Defensive Player of the Year honors elude him, Anunoby remains in strong position to earn another All-Defensive Team selection. His length, versatility, and instincts have been critical to New York’s success on both ends of the floor.

Anunoby is also enjoying one of the most productive offensive stretches of his career. Over his past 15 games, he’s averaging 22.9 points and 5.3 rebounds while shooting 46.6% from the field, 38.5% from deep, and 86.8% from the free-throw line.

With six games remaining in the regular season, Anunoby has time to solidify his Defensive Player of the Year campaign — and help the Knicks make a playoff push in the process.

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