Knicks fans’ hype for OG Anunoby is simply deja vu to faithful Raptors followers

It was certainly a shock to the Raptors community when their beloved defensive specialist, OG Anunoby, was traded to the New York Knicks last year. On the bright side, Toronto landed a scoring stud in RJ Barrett, a clutch point guard in Immanuel Quickley, and a promising prospect in Jonathan Mogbo.

Anunoby was undoubtedly a key player for Toronto, boasting a list of memorable moments, including his buzzer-beater against the Celtics during the 2020 NBA Bubble playoffs. However, his time with the Raptors was largely overshadowed by his struggles to fulfill promises and meet expectations.

Recently, Anunoby has been creating significant buzz with the New York Knicks, thanks to his stellar performances and defensive tenacity. He has scored 24 or more points in six of his last ten games, including an absolute monster outing against the Nuggets on November 25, where Anunoby recorded 40 points, five rebounds, and four assists.

This surge in productivity has not only reinvigorated Knicks fans but has also sparked debates among Raptors supporters who have seen this movie before.

Knicks fans sound just like Raptors fans once upon a time

For Raptors fans, the narrative around Anunoby is all too familiar. His flashes of brilliance in Toronto left many yearning for more consistent production, making his recent performance with the Knicks feel like a page torn from an old script. While his defensive prowess was often lauded during his time in Toronto, it was his offensive limitations that often led to frustration.

The question remains: can the Knicks capitalize on Anunoby's newfound form, or are they setting themselves up for the same disappointment felt by Raptors fans?

As the season progresses, Anunoby's role with the Knicks is being spotlighted, and expectations are soaring. His ability to score and safeguard the perimeter makes him a valuable asset for New York's playoff aspirations. Anunoby's strong 2024-25 campaign has sparked fervent calls from the Knicks' die-hard community for his inclusion in the NBA All-Star Game.

However, it’s essential to remember that consistency has eluded him in the past. Raptors fans are cautiously observing his success, with a mix of pride and skepticism, recalling similar stretches that ultimately failed to become the norm.

The Knicks' current momentum offers a tantalizing glimpse into what Anunoby could be capable of if he channels his skills effectively. Clearly, something has ignited in the 27-year-old forward to elevate his game, with one humorous theory suggesting that Anne Hathaway is to blame. His impressive scoring ability, paired with relentless defensive intensity, has generated a sense of optimism among the fanbase.

Is OG Anunoby merely riding a wave of good fortune, or has he finally turned the corner? Raptors fans will undoubtedly be listening intently, hoping for the best but prepared for another twist in the tale of an enigmatic player who has both captivated and frustrated them.

In the end, Anunoby’s journey serves as a microcosm of the highs and lows that define a player's career. Whether he becomes the standout star that Knicks fans are dreaming of, or fades back into a more familiar pattern, one thing is clear: the story of OG Anunoby is far from over. Both Raptor and Knicks fans have a vested interest in the outcome, eager to see if the magic will stick or if they’re just witnessing another round in the relentless spin of the NBA's narrative wheel.