OG Anunoby missed the Knicks' visit to Toronto last season with an injury and was unable to suit up, making Monday night his first return to Toronto, where he spent his first six-plus NBA seasons. It was a match.
Anunoby, who is averaging a career-high 17.7 points per game this season, said he is “not sure” how he will be received by fans at Scotiabank Arena.
“It's great to see my friends, my staff and the people of Canada,” Anunoby said after Saturday's loss to the Pistons.
Anunoby was acquired along with Precious Achiuwa on December 30 of last season in the deal that sent RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley to the Raptors.
Achiuwa has already played his comeback game in Toronto, recording 19 points and 12 rebounds in a win over the Knicks on March 27.
On Saturday night, in his second game back after missing the preseason with a hamstring injury, he came off the bench and grabbed 10 rebounds in 26 minutes.
“He made a big impact. I'm not surprised,” Anunoby said of Achiuwa. “That's what he's always done. He's a really talented player, a special player who can do a lot on both sides. The more chances he gets, the more he'll develop. So It's not surprising.”
Barrett played in 21 games for the Raptors this season, averaging career highs in points (23.3), rebounds (6.6) and assists (5.9).
Quickley has appeared in just three games due to injury since signing a five-year, $175 million contract extension in July.
He has been out since November 10th due to a torn ligament in his left elbow.
Karl-Anthony Towns (knee) and Cam Payne (elbow) are listed as questionable again after missing Saturday's loss to the Pistons.
Bruce Brown (reconditioned) also remains sidelined for the Raptors (7-17).
