Key takeaways:
• The Philadelphia 76ers view OG Anunoby as an alternative if their top free agent, Paul George, re-signs with the LA Clippers.
• Anunoby has previously played a key role for the Knicks and was their most flexible defender.
• An expectant deal of $35 to 40 million annually for Anunoby could set a new market benchmark for elite 3-and-D wings.
• Paul George may remain with the LA Clippers, despite reported interest from the 76ers.
• The Sixers have nearly $56 million in cap space but acquiring Anunoby, an All-NBA Defensive Second Team last season, connotes risks.
Anunoby a Potential Savior
The Philadelphia 76ers have put their crosshairs on OG Anunoby as a viable backup plan should their top free agent target, Paul George, chooses to extend his stay with the Los Angeles Clippers. The 76ers’ interest in Anunoby has been confirmed by sports journalist Ian Begley.
A Valuable Asset
Anunoby, 26, has carved out a reputation as a critical player for the Knicks, especially recognized for his defensive versatility. He secured an average of 15.0 points, 6.8 rebounds, 1.0 steals, and 1.3 blocks against the Sixers during the playoffs. However, the future of Anunoby appears uncertain as he is likely to turn down his $19 million player option to become an unrestricted free agent.
New Benchmark for 3-and-D Wings
The contract Anunoby expects to secure could be a game-changer for similar elite ‘3-and-D’ wing players, according to former Hoopshype’s salary cap expert Yossi Gozlan. Gozlan anticipates Anunoby’s next deal falling into the range of $35 to 40 million annually based on lucrative extensions recently signed by players in the same bracket. It is also projected that his new contract would perform well in the next few seasons, courtesy of the forthcoming 10% rise in the salary cap due to the new TV rights deal.
Sixers’ financial position
The Sixers have substantial financial power, projected to have almost $56 million in cap space as suggested by Eric Pincus, a salary cap expert at Bleacher Report. However, there’s an element of risk in seeking Anunoby, an All-NBA Defensive Second Team last season; Anunoby has not completed more than 70 games in any season since his rookie year.
George to Remain in LA?
Amid swirling rumors, Paul George has remained coy about his future career plans after the Clippers’ defeat by the Dallas Mavericks in the initial round of the NBA Playoffs. However, it seems likely that George wishes to stay in Los Angeles according to Shams Charania of The Athletic. His interest in the Sixers could be a strategic move to obtain leverage with the Clippers.
Securing George for the future
At 34, George, has a $48.8 million player option for the upcoming season. In all probability, he will dismiss the option to secure his last hefty payday. The Clippers are keen to re-sign George under his max, following in the footsteps of Kawhi Leonard, and continue building a contender.