OG Anunoby Finally Getting Recognition as NBA’s Most Versatile Defender
OG Anunoby may have been snubbed from All-Defense honors last season, but that hasn’t stopped the basketball world from acknowledging his impact. Knicks fans have long believed he’s the league’s most versatile defender, and now he’s getting the credit.
On a recent episode of the Game Theory Podcast, host Sam Vecenie labeled Anunoby the NBA’s most switchable defender.
“I think I would argue…he might be the most switchable player in the league,” Vecenie said. “He’ll guard Joel Embiid in the playoffs and disrupt him, then turn around and defend guards without issue.”
That rare ability makes Anunoby one of the few true five-position defenders in today’s game — and perhaps the only one.
Why Anunoby’s Versatility Is Unmatched
Anunoby’s defensive flexibility was on full display during the Knicks’ playoff run, particularly in their series against the Boston Celtics. Even in a scheme under Tom Thibodeau that wasn’t switch-heavy, OG’s ability to guard every spot on the floor gave New York a unique weapon.
According to Ball Index, just two players last season fit this profile: spending half their possessions against small and power forwards, while also guarding point guards, shooting guards, and centers at least 10% of the time. The two names? OG Anunoby and Pascal Siakam.
Look at his primary assignments from last season: Paul George, Jayson Tatum, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Devin Booker, James Harden, DeMar DeRozan, RJ Barrett, Tobias Harris, Brandon Miller, Cam Thomas, Jalen Johnson, Jalen Williams, and Siakam. That list spans nearly every archetype in the league.
Why the Knicks Traded and Paid for Him
The Knicks knew exactly what they were getting when they acquired Anunoby, and his massive five-year, $212.5 million contract reflects it. Critics point to his offensive limitations and injury history, but when healthy, he is worth every dollar on defense alone.
Consider this: 92% of Karl-Anthony Towns’ minutes last season came alongside Anunoby, specifically to cover for his defensive shortcomings. The fact that New York’s defensive rating hovered near league average in those stretches was a direct credit to OG’s presence.
But his value isn’t only defensive. When Jalen Brunson missed time with an ankle injury, Anunoby stepped up offensively, showing he can take on more responsibility. Under new head coach Mike Brown, he could be poised to climb higher in the Knicks’ offensive hierarchy.
The Bottom Line
OG Anunoby is more than just a defensive stopper — he’s arguably the NBA’s most versatile defender and may still have untapped offensive upside. For the Knicks, that combination makes him a cornerstone piece. For 29 other teams, it makes him a nightmare matchup.
