The Knicks continue to make noise in the East, and Saturday’s 112-109 win over the 76ers was another statement performance. It was their 27th victory of the season, and it kept them locked into that fourth seed in the Eastern Conference - a spot that’s starting to feel more and more like home as this team finds its rhythm.
But let’s talk about the moment that had Madison Square Garden buzzing - OG Anunoby’s emphatic putback slam over Joel Embiid. With under two minutes to go and the Knicks clinging to a narrow lead, Landry Shamet launched a corner three.
It missed, but Anunoby didn’t. He came flying in from the weak side and detonated over Embiid for a highlight-reel finish that swung momentum squarely in the Knicks' favor.
That dunk didn’t just put two points on the board - it sent a message.
Anunoby was dialed in all night. He dropped 23 points on an efficient 66.6% shooting from the field and matched that percentage from deep.
Add in seven rebounds, four assists, and two steals, and you’ve got a complete performance from a player who’s quickly becoming a key cog in Tom Thibodeau’s system. While Jalen Brunson led the way with 31 points, it was Anunoby’s two-way impact that helped seal the deal.
Since arriving in New York during the 2023-24 season, Anunoby has fit right in. He’s not just a plug-and-play defender - though his versatility on that end is a big reason why the Knicks' defense has taken a step forward - he’s also bringing consistent production on offense.
Heading into the matchup with Philly, he was averaging 15.5 points, 5.5 rebounds (matching a career-high), and 1.7 steals per game. His shooting splits - 45.3% from the field and 33.9% from three - show a player who knows his role and executes it efficiently.
What stands out most is how seamlessly Anunoby has meshed with the Knicks’ core. He defends multiple positions, spaces the floor, and doesn’t need the ball to make an impact - the kind of player every playoff team needs in its rotation.
The Knicks, now deep into the regular season, are playing some of their best basketball. With the trade deadline looming on February 5, the front office has a decision to make: stand pat with a team that’s clicking, or look to make a move that pushes them into true contender territory. No matter what happens, one thing is clear - this version of the Knicks is for real, and OG Anunoby is a big reason why.
OG Anunoby ROARS in for the putback slam 😤
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) January 24, 2026
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