The New York Knicks delivered an impressive performance on Saturday night in Cleveland, overpowering the Cavaliers with a 121-108 victory. This win has given the Knicks a strong 3-0 lead in their Eastern Conference Finals series.
Jalen Brunson played a pivotal role, scoring 30 points. He hit 10 out of 19 shots from the field and was successful on 10 out of 12 free-throw attempts. Mikal Bridges also shone brightly by making 11 of 15 shots and scoring 22 points. OG Anunoby contributed significantly with 21 points, seven rebounds, and four assists. He shot an efficient 60% from the field, 75% from three-point range, and was flawless from the free-throw line.
“Freakin’ OG got robbed. He should’ve been first team all defense … The versatility that guy brings to this team is off the charts, and I hope the voters get it right next time around,” said Knicks head coach Mike Brown after Game 3.
While Saturday’s game was remarkable, equally noteworthy was the announcement of the NBA All-Defensive Teams for the 2025-26 season. Ahead of Friday’s Western Conference Finals clash between the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs, the NBA revealed their selections. Victor Wembanyama, Chet Holmgren, Ausar Thompson, Rudy Gobert, and Derrick White made it to the first team.
OG Anunoby earned significant recognition, placing ninth in total votes with 67 points. He received 11 first-place votes and 45 second-place votes, securing a spot on the second team along with Scottie Barnes, Cason Wallace, Bam Adebayo, and Dyson Daniels.
Anunoby’s performance during the 2025-26 season stood out. He averaged 16.7 points, 5.2 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 1.7 steals per game while appearing in 67 games. His steal rate placed him tied for third in the league, and he was one of three players to exceed 0.6 blocks per game alongside his steal rate, with Ausar Thompson and Tyrese Maxey as the others. Anunoby achieved a 3.2 Defensive Win Share, marking his highest since 3.7 in the 2021-22 season. His contributions even garnered votes for the Defensive Player of the Year award.
The recognition of Anunoby’s defensive skill has not been a common occurrence, making this his second All-Defensive Team appearance. Despite being one of the most crucial and adaptable defenders in the Eastern Conference for the past five years, he is often overshadowed.
Coach Brown’s remarks could provide the Knicks with added motivation as they head into Game 4 in Cleveland on Monday, aiming to close out the series.
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