How Likely is OG Anunoby to Leave the New York Knicks in Free Agency?

The New York Knicks' ideal scenario of running it back (with a healthy core) and adding talent on top may get a bit cloudy as free agency approaches. Specifically when it comes to the team's midseason acquisition, OG Anunoby.

While the Knicks would love to keep Anunoby, who excelled during his time in New York, the latest chatter highlights a very real outcome where the 26-year-old hits unrestricted free agency.

OG Anunoby was a difference-maker on both ends of the floor for the Knicks Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

According to Yahoo Sports NBA Insider Jake Fischer, some teams left the NBA Draft Combine with the "belief" Anunoby could hit free agency and "consider deals" from other franchises.

“While league personnel are of the mind Siakam will certainly be re-signing with Indiana, there was word circling among team officials at last week’s NBA Draft Combine that Anunoby’s situation with the Knicks is not as cut and dried …" Fischer wrote. "Various teams left Chicago with the belief that Anunoby could reach unrestricted free agency and consider deals from other franchises in addition to New York, sources said.”

Anunoby is set to be one of the top free agents this offseason, and if LeBron James agrees to remain with the Los Angeles Lakers and Paul George inks a new deal with the Clippers, his value will jump even more.

In 23 games played with the Knicks this season, Anunoby averaged 14.1 points, 4.4 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 1.7 steals while shooting 48.8 percent from the field. But his ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor was the most significant aspect of his addition to the Knicks.

Anunoby was a difference-maker defensively. Over the span of his time in New York boasted a total plus-minus of +353, highlighting his positive impact on a nightly basis.

While Anunoby potentially considering other offers beyond the Knicks' is less than ideal, it certainly doesn't mean he won't return to New York. If the Knicks make a big push to re-sign him, don't be surprised if the two sides eliminate any drama of his potential departure and instead reach a new deal early on in free agency.