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New York Knicks: Tom Thibodeau Explains Painful Decision Behind Crucial Game 7 OG Anunoby Move

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Rex Villas | Last updated 5/20/24

The New York Knicks could have taken care of business in the second round of their 2024 NBA Playoffs journey against the Indiana Pacers if they were healthy. But they had to deal with the cards they were dealt with, as they were forced to navigate the playoffs with some of their key players missing games. Among them is forward OG Anunoby, who missed four games in the Indiana series because of a hamstring injury he suffered in Game 2.

Seeing the importance of Sunday’s Game 7 versus the Pacers at Madison Square Garden, Anunoby tried to play through his injury and even hit a couple of shots for five points in the first five minutes of the contest. However, Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau decided Anunoby didn’t have to make such a sacrifice, as he pulled his player from the game and sat him the rest of the way.

New York Knicks’ Tom Thibodeau Sounds off on OG Anunoby Decision in Game 7

After the game, Thibodeau revealed what he was thinking when he decided to send Anunoby to the bench in such a crucial contest.

Via Andy Katz of The Athletic:

Thibodeau said it was his decision not to put OG Anunoby back in the game after pulling him five minutes in. Said he didn’t like the way Anunoby was moving and didn’t want to risk it. Said he and Anunoby had a long convo yesterday and Anunoby wanted to give it a shot today.

Now, Anunoby is headed to an intriguing offseason as the has a player option to decide on before June 29.

Anunoby, who was acquired by the Knicks from the Toronto Raptors back in December, averaged 14.7 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game across 50 total games for the Raps and the Knicks in the 2023-24 NBA regular season.

This article first appeared on Hardwood Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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