Knicks Forward Challenging Jalen Brunson for Clutch Player of the Year

OG Anunoby's impressive clutch-time stats have him in the running for the award.

Feb. 19, 2026 at 12:39am

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New York Knicks point guard Jalen Brunson has won the Clutch Player of the Year award before, but his teammate OG Anunoby is making a strong push to take the crown this season. Anunoby has been incredibly efficient in clutch situations, shooting 60% overall and 75% from 3-point range. His offensive rating in clutch time is the best in the NBA among players with at least 15 clutch games played.

Why it matters

The Knicks' success this season has been driven by their strong play in close games, with both Brunson and Anunoby playing key roles. The Clutch Player of the Year award is a recognition of the players who step up the most when the game is on the line, so this battle between Knicks teammates highlights the team's depth and ability to win tight contests.

The details

Brunson has dominated clutch time this season, scoring 156 points and shooting 51.5% from the field. However, Anunoby has been even more efficient, posting a 127.8 offensive rating in clutch situations, the best in the NBA among players with at least 15 clutch games played. Anunoby has shot 60% overall and 75% from 3-point range in clutch time, while also contributing on the defensive end with 11 rebounds, 3 assists, and 4 steals.

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The players

Jalen Brunson

A three-time NBA All-Star and the reigning Clutch Player of the Year, Brunson has been the driving force behind the Knicks' return to relevancy.

OG Anunoby

A talented two-way wing for the Knicks, Anunoby is making a strong push to take the Clutch Player of the Year award from his teammate Brunson.

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What’s next

The Knicks will continue to rely on both Brunson and Anunoby to make clutch plays as they push for a deep playoff run. The battle for the Clutch Player of the Year award will likely come down to the final games of the regular season.

The takeaway

The Knicks' success this season has been fueled by their ability to win close games, with both Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby stepping up in clutch situations. This internal competition for the Clutch Player of the Year award highlights the team's depth and the importance of having multiple players who can make winning plays when the game is on the line.