New York, NY — Knicks head coach Mike Brown believes forward OG Anunoby deserves a spot on this season’s NBA All-Defensive First Team, but league rules have left the 6’8” wing one appearance short of qualifying.
The 65-game standard requires players to log at least 20 minutes in each contest. Anunoby has met that threshold 64 times and has four regular-season games remaining to secure eligibility. He missed the honor last year despite playing a career-best 74 games. New York’s defense has climbed to eighth in the league after finishing 13th a season ago.
“His versatility is off the charts,” Brown said. “He should be First Team All-Defense, and I hope the people who decide see it that way.”
Miles McBride Works Back From Surgery
Guard Miles McBride returned last week after a 28-game layoff caused by sports-hernia surgery. “It’s like someone stabbing your groin, hip, and abs at the same time,” he said of the injury, adding that regaining rhythm has been the toughest part of the comeback.
Skid Against Winning Teams
Monday marks a full month since the Knicks last defeated an opponent above .500. With the postseason approaching, New York faces Atlanta, Boston, Toronto, and Charlotte in its final four games. “The past is the past,” forward Josh Hart said. “Our focus is on going 1-0 tomorrow and then moving on to the next one.”
Sochan Adds Frontcourt Flexibility
Forward Jeremy Sochan logged his heaviest minutes since joining the Knicks during Friday’s matchup with Chicago, earning the club’s defensive player of the game honor. Brown deployed Sochan as a backup center, praising the lineup’s improved pace and ability to switch pick-and-roll actions.
Source: Hoops Rumors
