By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Set for a best-of-seven series with Game 1 in Madison Square Garden on Monday, the New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers feature a clash between former teammates at the Toronto Raptors, OG Anunoby and Pascal Siakam, among the leaders in the 2019 NBA championship won by the Canadian franchise.
“I know some stuff, but he is a great player. I think everyone knows that,” the British forward commented on facing Siakam.
Anunoby, 26, played alongside the 30-year-old Cameroonian forward throughout his NBA career until he was traded to the Knicks midway through the 2023-24 Regular Season. Trades continued with Siakam to the Pacers.
“It will be weird. I have never played against him. He was always my teammate. But it will be cool. I am sure he is looking forward too,” mentioned Anunoby.
“He is a great player,” he added, “He has made a big impact. Plays both ends. Can score, he can rebound, he can pass. He can do everything.”
The prize of the series is a berth in the Finals of the Eastern Conference of the 2024 NBA Playoffs presented by Google Pixel. “Togetherness. Resilience. Competitiveness,” Anunoby described requirements for further success.
Besides averaging 15.0 points, 6.8 rebounds, 1.3 blocks, and 1.0 steals per contest in six games opposite the Philadelphia 76ers in the first round, the defensive ace in the lineup over 29 games between the Regular Season and the Playoffs was combined with 24 wins for the team coached by Tom Thibodeau.