OG Anunoby’s Game 3 performance stood out for the Knicks even in a 115-111 loss that ended New York’s 13-game playoff winning streak and gave San Antonio new life in the series. While many Knicks struggled with the pressure of the moment, Anunoby delivered 28 points and five rebounds, showing the kind of two-way impact that could become more important in Game 4.
Anunoby’s value went beyond the box score. He scored in different ways, knocking down spot-up shots, attacking gaps in the defense, and holding up on the other end across multiple positions. In a matchup shaped by Victor Wembanyama’s presence, Anunoby offered New York a wing option who could create pressure without forcing the offense to revolve entirely around Jalen Brunson.
The Knicks have leaned heavily on Brunson in late-game situations, and Karl-Anthony Towns remains a central piece of the offense. But Anunoby has emerged as a useful release valve when San Antonio loads the paint and slows the flow of possessions. His Game 3 production suggested he can relieve some of that pressure while still fitting naturally into the Knicks’ structure.
After the loss, Anunoby said the team was not as connected as usual and pointed to transition defense as an area that needs improvement. That concern was reflected in the game itself, as San Antonio found too many easy paths into the paint, creating opportunities for drives, kickouts, fouls, and Wembanyama cleanup chances.
For Game 4, the adjustment for New York may not need to be dramatic, but it does need to be sharper. The Knicks should look to get Anunoby involved earlier, before the Spurs can fully load up defensively around Wembanyama. That could mean using him in the corners, as a screener, or on slips into open space to keep San Antonio honest.
If the Spurs choose to stay attached to Anunoby, that should open more room for Brunson and Towns. If they help off him, Anunoby has shown he can punish them. His combination of size, shooting, defense, and composure gives New York an important way to simplify a difficult matchup.
The Knicks do not need to completely change their approach. They need to use Anunoby more deliberately and lean on his ability to create balance on both ends. If Game 4 turns into another close, physical battle, his role could be central to whether New York regains control of the series or heads back to San Antonio tied.
