After a successful second stint with the Los Angeles Lakers, veteran guard Dennis Schroder had an incredible summer, leading to his German squad winning the FIBA World Cup and signing a long-term contract with the Toronto Raptors to be Fred VanVleet’s successor.
Even though the Raptors have struggled to play consistently well this season, with the team currently sporting a record of 9-10 as of Thursday, the team hasn’t been without some positive things to be proud of this year.
One player who continues to receive high praise for his play on the defensive side of the basketball floor is OG Anunoby, as he is still one of the best perimeter defenders in the game.
During a recent appearance on The Raptors Show, Schroder talked about how Anunoby stacks up with the elite defenders he’s played with over the course of his NBA career.
how does og anunoby stack up against the elite defenders @DS17_FG has played with over the years?
catch the full chat with @william_lou & @BlakeMurphyODC: https://t.co/JzgomU3Q27 pic.twitter.com/uaVY8zKcyO
— The Raptors Show (@TheRaptorsShow) November 30, 2023
Schroder believes that Anunoby should be in the running for NBA Defensive Player of the Year, which can be a tall order for a player who isn’t a big man getting his work done in the paint on a nightly basis.
Along with being an elite defender in the league this season, Anunoby is getting it done on both ends of the floor, as he’s played well and efficiently offensively as well.
In 15 games played thus far this season, Anunoby is averaging 14.9 points, 4.1 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.1 steals per game, shooting 47.5% percent from the floor and 41.5% from distance.
Even though Anunoby’s free-throw shooting leaves something to be desired at an ugly 58.6%, he’s still playing at a high level and remains one of the Raptors’ best all-around players.
NEXT: Stats Show Raptors Veteran Has Dominated Rivals On Defense