OG Anunoby has been suggested as a potential target for the Los Angeles Lakers amid growing financial concerns for the New York Knicks. The front office in Los Angeles faces an incomplete-feeling summer roster following missed opportunities, with insiders pointing to the forward’s championship pedigree as a potential final piece alongside Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.
Financial Pressures Surrounding New York Core
The New York Knicks carry significant salary obligations tied to their core rotation players. MySportsTab notes that financial concerns could potentially force the franchise to evaluate its expensive roster structure. The Knicks are currently managing a $136 million star in Anunoby, whose existing contract remains a focal point of the organization’s fiscal strategy.
Trade Viability and Roster Adjustments in Los Angeles
Lakers insider Jovan Buha stated that acquiring Anunoby, Mikal Bridges, or Josh Hart makes strategic sense for filling the final roster spot. If one of OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges or Josh Hart shakes loose, I think any of those three will make a ton of sense for this group in one of those spots,
Buha said. Yet, matching Anunoby’s salary requires pushing well past the salary cap. Additional depth pieces like Jake LaRavia, Sandro Mamukelashvili, and Jarred Vanderbilt also contend for forward minutes.
Two-Way Value on a Championship Roster
At 29 years old, OG Anunoby provides elite two-way forward play that fits a traditional 3-and-D profile. While his scoring numbers reflect a complementary role rather than a primary option during stints with the Toronto Raptors and New York Knicks, his defensive versatility on the perimeter remains highly prized. His value is clear in his ability to step into the role vacated by LeBron James, providing a championship-caliber presence that could make the Lakers a genuine title contender.
Lakers Evaluate Forward Talent for Starting Rotation
On January 9, 2026, Anunoby was observed during a contest between the Knicks and the Phoenix Suns at the Mortgage Matchup Center, where the Suns defeated the Knicks 112-107. Beyond the starting rotation, the Lakers are evaluating a deep pool of talent to fill forward spots. Quentin Grimes, Ziaire Williams, Matisse Thybull, and rookie Cameron Carr are all in competition, with Buha suggesting that a potential acquisition could involve moving players like Grimes to the bench to accommodate a higher-profile starter.
Questions Regarding Potential Trades
Why is OG Anunoby considered a difficult trade target for the Lakers?
Anunoby is owed roughly $42.5 million for the 2026-27 season and is signed through 2029 as a core piece of the Knicks. While the Lakers could offer team-friendly deals to facilitate a move, the financial gap remains a significant hurdle.
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