The New York Knicks have been firing on all cylinders this season. No, it’s not just their 7-3 record, or the fact that they hold the second seed in the Eastern Conference. It’s not even their league-leading dominance on the offensive glass or their willingness to let it fly from deep.

It’s their defensive intensity.

New York ranks seventh in defensive rating, a complete 180 from their bottom-five finish under former head coach Tom Thibodeau. The Knicks aren’t just rotating quicker — they’re diving for loose balls, boxing out on every possession, and forcing turnovers with consistent pressure and hustle.

Defense Wins Championships...and Respect

At the center of this resurgence is OG Anunoby. Long recognized for his defensive prowess, Anunoby has become the Knicks’ golden goose, averaging 2.2 steals and 0.5 blocks per game while ranking sixth in player net rating across the league. Head coach Mike Brown has taken notice, making a bold declaration about his forward’s season so far.

“OG is an All-Star, in my opinion. Not only is he an All-Star, he’s an all-defensive performer. In my opinion, he should have an opportunity — among others in our group — to fight for Defensive Player of the Year in the league.”

Brown’s endorsement does two things for the 28-year-old. First, it gives the team a spark, motivating them to tighten up offensively so Anunoby doesn’t have to carry as much defensive weight. Second, it gives Anunoby the confidence to chase a career milestone. His highest finish in DPOY voting was seventh in the 2022-23 season — and this year, he’s making a strong case to break into the top five.

“He’s worked his tail off in the summertime,” Brown added. “He’s just getting comfortable with what we’re trying to do. He’s making quick decisions with the basketball… he knows what spots he should fill.”

Offense Has the Same Effect

Beyond defense, Anunoby is quietly having a career-best year on offense. He’s averaging 18.0 points and 6.0 rebounds while shooting 48.2% from the field and 39.3% from three. He’s also been the most efficient corner three-point shooter in the league and continues to make his presence felt attacking the rim.

Anunoby might not say much — but his play speaks volumes. And for a Knicks team intent on turning grit into glory, his effort might just be the heartbeat of their identity.