Overview
- On Oct. 13 LeBron James told his Mind the Game podcast that he regarded OG Anunoby as the Knicks’ most valuable player in the 2026 Finals because of steady shooting and decisive plays.
- Jalen Brunson remains the official and unanimous Bill Russell NBA Finals MVP after averaging 32.6 points and earning all 11 votes from the Finals panel.
- LeBron cited Anunoby’s Game 4 chase‑down block on De’Aaron Fox and his 1.2‑second tip‑in that completed a 29‑point comeback as key reasons for his view.
- The comments drew swift media reaction, with some hosts criticizing LeBron’s take, and gained extra attention because James nearly joined the Knicks in free agency before signing with the 76ers.
- The exchange reopened a broader debate about how short series decide awards and could shape narratives when the 76ers and Knicks meet for New York’s banner‑raising and the regular‑season opener on Oct. 20.