The New York Knicks and Toronto Raptors faced off in a crucial game where defense was the key to victory. Without Julius Randle, the Knicks needed their defense to step up if they had any chance of making a playoff run this season.
A significant boost to their defense came in the form of OG Anunoby, who returned to the lineup after dealing with a lingering elbow issue. Anunoby had missed 18 games due to surgery on his right elbow to remove a loose particle. Although he played in three games, he struggled with inflammation in the elbow and ended up missing another nine games.
Since being traded from Toronto to New York near the deadline, Anunoby has been a defensive force and a lock-down perimeter player for the Knicks. In addition to his defensive abilities, he has also been contributing an average of 14.5 points and 4.9 rebounds per game.
With the Knicks tied with Orlando for the 4/5 spots in the East and just half a game behind the stumbling Cavaliers for the No. 3 seed, every game is crucial in determining their playoff seeding. The Knicks currently hold a comfortable 2.5 game lead over the No. 6 seed Pacers with only six games left in the regular season. Having Anunoby back in the lineup will be key for New York as they aim to secure a favorable playoff position.
