The Raptors didn’t make the playoffs this year, but that doesn’t mean teams north of the border aren’t making an impact in the postseason.
Two former forwards, OG Anunoby and Pascal Siakam, will play key roles in the upcoming Eastern Conference semifinal game between the Knicks and the Pacers.
Both players were in talks before the trade deadline, and the two friends and former teammates will now go head-to-head with a lot at stake.
“Yeah, that’s weird,” Anunoby said Saturday. “I’ve never played against him. He’s always been my teammate, so it might be weird, but I’m sure it’ll be cool. He’s looking forward to it, too.”
They both made a huge impact in their new homes.
Since acquiring the 6-foot-7 Anunoby on Dec. 30, the Knicks have gone 24-5, including a win over the 76ers in the playoff series he plays in.
In addition to playing his trademark lockdown defense, Anunoby averaged 15.0 points, 6.8 rebounds and 1.3 blocks in the series.
Siakam, who is 6-8, had an outstanding performance in the Pacers’ series victory over the Bucks, posting 22.3 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 4.2 assists, and has been a member of Indiana’s top offensive line since joining in a trade on January 17th. became a major member of
This will be new for both of them.
Even in practice scrimmages with the Raptors, they were often on the same team, so they rarely guarded each other.
“I know a few things,” Anunoby said. “He’s a great player. I think everyone knows that. … He’s had a huge impact. He plays both ends. He can score, he can rebound, he can pass. He can do it all. Yo.”
It will be difficult to slow down the Pacers.
They averaged a league-best 123.3 points during the regular season and were second in offensive rating (120.5). Indiana defeated the Knicks in two of three regular season games, averaging 123.3 points.
However, Anunoby did not play in those games.
“Obviously, his presence is going to make a difference,” Jalen Brunson said. “I’m excited, he’s healthy. I’m excited to have him back with us. It’s going to be a great matchup.”
I think the Knicks will use Anunoby in a variety of ways.
He doesn’t just protect his former teammates.
He will also guard Pacers star point guard Tyrese Haliburton.
Against the 76ers, he went from chasing Tyrese Maxey on the perimeter to chasing Joel Embiid in the paint.
That’s what makes Anunoby so valuable to the Knicks: his versatility on both ends of the floor.
The Knicks’ success since his arrival speaks for itself.
“I mean, he can do things on the court that are hard to teach,” Brunson said. “Obviously, having the athleticism and length to cover ground like he does is remarkable. I think he’s also confident because he’s done it so many times. Masu.”
