The New York Knicks delivered a stunning performance in Cleveland on Saturday night, overpowering the Cavaliers 121-108. This victory puts the Knicks in a commanding 3-0 lead in the Eastern Conference Finals.
Jalen Brunson was a standout, contributing 30 points, with an impressive shooting record of 10 of 19 from the field and 10 of 12 from the free-throw line. Mikal Bridges was also exceptional, adding 22 points while shooting 11 of 15.
OG Anunoby played a crucial role as well, scoring 21 points, securing seven rebounds, and making four assists. His shooting was outstanding, achieving 60% from the floor, 75% from beyond the arc, and a perfect six-for-six from the line.
However, the weekend’s most notable statistic wasn’t from Saturday night’s game.
On Friday, the NBA announced the All-Defensive Teams for the 2025-26 season, ahead of the Western Conference Finals between the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs. Victor Wembanyama led the first team alongside Chet Holmgren, Ausar Thompson, Rudy Gobert, and Derrick White.
Anunoby secured a spot on the second team, ranking ninth in total voting with 67 points, including 11 first-place votes and 45 second-place votes. He joined Scottie Barnes, Cason Wallace, Bam Adebayo, and Dyson Daniels on this team.
Following the third game, Knicks head coach Mike Brown expressed dissatisfaction with the votes. He believed Anunoby deserved a spot on the first team. “Freakin’ OG got robbed. He should’ve been first-team all defense,” Brown remarked. “The versatility that guy brings to this team is remarkable, and I hope the voters get it right next time. I’m glad he’s on the second team, but it was wrong.”
Anunoby’s 2025-26 season was his best in terms of two-way play. He averaged 16.7 points, 5.2 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 1.7 steals in 67 games. His steals per game ranked him third in the NBA, and he was one of three players to couple that with over 0.6 blocks per game, along with Ausar Thompson and Tyrese Maxey.
Anunoby also recorded a 3.2 Defensive Win Share, his highest since 2021-22, and received Defensive Player of the Year votes. Although this is just his second All-Defensive Team selection, his impact is undeniable.
Meanwhile, more headlines emerged over the weekend as Jared McCain delivered a message to Daryl Morey after OKC’s Game 3 win.
Fans were thrilled about Derrick White’s inclusion in the First-Team All-Defense over Scottie Barnes. In other news, LeBron James faces mounting pressure as the Lakers’ timeline tightens.
Anunoby is renowned for his defensive work and versatility over the last five years in the Eastern Conference, yet remains underacknowledged by voters. Brown’s comments could motivate the Knicks further as they head towards a potential series-close in Game 4 on Monday in Cleveland.