OG Anunoby could be a name to watch for the Los Angeles Lakers this summer. While nothing is imminent, Anunoby fits exactly what the Lakers have been searching for around their core. If the offseason trade market begins to shift, Anunoby could emerge as a potential target depending on how larger deals across the league unfold.
According to Dan Favale of Bleacher Report, Anunoby could become an option for the Lakers if the Knicks were to trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo.
“The Lakers should hold out hope for the chance to swoop in as a third-party facilitator who sends draft equity the Milwaukee Bucks’ way. If they play their cards right, they have enough ancillary money—Jake LaRavia, DeAndre Ayton (player option), Marcus Smart (player option)—to complete a lopsided deal without nuking all of their cap space.”
The New York Knicks were rumored to be Giannis’ preferred destination, but at this point, nobody is sure what Giannis wants. Not even Giannis knows what he wants. But if he does end up in New York, this would be the perfect opportunity for the Lakers to swoop in and get the 3 and D wing they’ve desired for a long time.
How Anunoby Would Fit
From a basketball perspective, Anunoby is an easy fit. The Lakers have needed a strong wing who can guard top scorers and help on offense without needing the ball all the time. Anunoby does all of that. He can guard multiple positions, shoot from three, and fits into a role that lets players like Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves focus more on scoring and making plays.
Anunoby’s biggest strength is his versatility. At 6-foot-7 with a solid build, he often guards the toughest players on the perimeter every night. He can defend both wings and guards, providing the reliable defense teams need in the playoffs. On offense, he doesn’t need the ball much to make an impact. He spaces the floor, makes smart cuts, and finishes plays set up by teammates. This mix of strong defense and simple, effective offense is the kind of role player championship teams look for.
Rob Pelinka is a Fan
Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka has previously referenced Anunoby as a prototype when discussing roster construction. After the draft, Pelinka compared rookie forward Adou Thiero to the type of defensive wing mold Anunoby represents.
This comparison offers some insight into how the Lakers evaluate talent. Players who can guard different positions and still help on offense are more valuable than ever. That’s something the Lakers seem to understand.
Bottom Line
For now, the idea of Anunoby landing in Los Angeles remains speculative and heavily dependent on larger league developments. A blockbuster pursuit by New York or a multi-team trade scenario would likely be required for the opportunity to even arise. But if the offseason produces unexpected movement across the league, Anunoby is exactly the type of two-way wing the Lakers would have strong reason to pursue.
