It's always easy to look back on missed opportunities now that the Grizzlies are in the early stages of another rebuild. But one that deserves a lot more discussion is the Grizzlies' failed pursuit of OG Anunoby in 2023. Anunoby has had a major impact on the Knicks' playoff run so far, and the Grizzlies' failure to get him certainly played a key role in accelerating their rebuild.
Back in February 2023, the Grizzlies submitted an offer to Toronto for OG Anunoby that consisted of three first-round picks. Ultimately, a deal did not get done, and the Raptors eventually sent Anunoby to the Knicks in December 2023 alongside Precious Achiuwa and Malachi Flynn in exchange for RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley, and a 2024 second-round pick.
Zach Lowe had the following to say back in 2023: "For instance, I've heard Memphis offered three first-round picks for Anunoby." Lowe also added, "But Toronto made it clear to these teams like 'we want a player too.' I don't think that sort of player was on the table at least from their view at least in Memphis."
Anunoby would've been an incredible get for the Grizzlies
Obviously, a lot went wrong for the Grizzlies in regards to roster construction and injuries. Coaching was also questionable in their 2022 and 2023 playoff runs. But one thing is certain: OG Anunoby checked plenty of boxes that the Grizzlies were looking for. The Grizzlies needed another tough-minded wing that is capable of lockdown perimeter defense and can also hit threes.
The once promising core of Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Desmond Bane also badly needed another quality veteran or two to build on a promising 2021-22 season. Dillon Brooks was already an integral piece that brought defensive toughness on the perimeter, but the Grizzlies needed another quality defensive wing and a more reliable offensive presence. For those reasons, Anunoby made way too much sense for the Grizzlies, and the price would've been more than justified.
Unfortunately, the Grizzlies did not get to reap the benefits of Anunoby's elite-level perimeter defense and overall strong offensive skillset.
OG Anunoby has reached another level in this year's playoffs
OG Anunoby has continued to be one of the best players for a winning Knicks team. A compelling case can also be made that he has been a top two Knick in this playoff run. Anunoby is averaging 21.4 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3 stocks (steals and blocks) in 8 Knicks playoff games so far. Anunoby currently has 61.9/53.8/81.1 shooting splits in the playoff run, but it has been extremely impressive how physical he's been driving to the basket.
Anunoby has continued living up to his reputation as a disruptive defender and continues to crash the glass. While Jalen Brunson and Karl Anthony-Towns have also played at a high level, Anunoby gives the team a significant spark when he is at his best.
It is clear that the Knicks struck gold trading for him, and it is rather unfortunate that the Grizzlies did not land him. The Grizzlies may not have won the Western Conference even if they acquired him, but the collapse of the team would have likely been delayed for a bit.
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