Brunson Returns: Knicks Tackle Anunoby’s Role in Offense

NEW YORK, NY — Jalen Brunson‘s much-anticipated return to the New York Knicks reignited discussions about OG Anunoby‘s offensive production, particularly as Brunson commands most of the ball-handling responsibilities. The Knicks, who have remained competitive since Brunson’s absence, are facing the challenge of integrating him back into a lineup that has seen Anunoby thrive without him.

Brunson, who missed 15 games due to a sprained ankle, was cleared to play and expected to start Sunday against the Phoenix Suns. His presence raises questions about how Anunoby will adapt as the team re-establishes its dynamics on the court. Coach Tom Thibodeau faced these inquiries head-on in a post-game press conference on Saturday after a decisive win over the Atlanta Hawks.

“That stuff, it’s white noise,” Thibodeau said. “The game tells you what to do. Whose shot is it in transition? The open man. And if there are two defenders on somebody, whose shot is it? You have the responsibility as a primary scorer to make the right play.”

The coach emphasized the need for every player to prioritize the team’s success over individual statistics, dismissing concerns about Anunoby becoming less effective with Brunson back on the floor. In fact, Anunoby’s usage rate had increased significantly during Brunson’s absence, from 18.1% to 23.9% over the last month.

Despite the adjustment period, Thibodeau believes Anunoby can continue his scoring, even if it means sacrificing halfcourt opportunities. “Anunoby is all over the floor. That’s how he’s scoring,” Thibodeau stated, countering the notion that Anunoby spends excess time standing in the corner when Brunson plays. “Everyone’s supposed to read the man in front of him. If you cut, you replace. That’s the way this game works.”

According to NBA.com, Brunson entered Sunday leading the Knicks with a usage rate of 29%, while Anunoby ranked fourth among starters at 18.1%. Their interplay could dictate the Knicks’ offensive output going forward, especially as both players possess the ability to score efficiently. For instance, while Anunoby averaged 16.5 points on 13 shots in games with Brunson, he ramped up to 23.2 points on 16.8 shots when Brunson was sidelined.

Brunson addressed the need for improvement, acknowledging the challenge of reacclimating to high-level competition. “Could be better, could be worse. A lot of room for improvement on my end,” he said after the Knicks’ win over the Suns, where he scored 15 points despite missing his first few shots.

As the Knicks gear up for the playoffs, maintaining offensive fluidity will be crucial. Anunoby is crucial to that equation and has proven his capability to perform under pressure. The coach’s trust in Anunoby’s adaptability could very well set their postseason trajectory.

“Right now, it’s more his timing. [Brunson’s] got to play. There’s no way around that,” Thibodeau said. “He practiced well, but the intensity of practice can never be replicated to what the game is.”