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Raptors' Anunoby denies wanting out of Toronto

Thearon W. Henderson / Getty Images Sport / Getty

O.G. Anunoby's future with the Toronto Raptors has been in doubt since last summer, but the sixth-year forward denied reports indicating he wants a fresh start elsewhere.

"No. It is what it is," Anunoby told Sportsnet's Michael Grange when asked if there's any truth to rumors surrounding him.

The Portland Trail Blazers apparently made a run for Anunoby on the eve of the 2022 NBA Draft, offering their No. 7 overall selection that year as part of a potential package. The Blazers eventually selected Shaedon Sharpe after no deal was struck.

Anunoby is also said to be unhappy with his role on the Raptors, but the Indiana product insisted he's just focused on improving daily.

"Some games you get a bigger role. It's the same for everyone. It changes game-to-game," Anunoby said.

Anunoby could be among the most notable players on the move at next month's trade deadline. The 25-year-old is averaging 16.9 points, 5.5 boards, and a league-leading 2.1 steals across 45 appearances this season. He's currently sidelined with a wrist injury.

The Phoenix Suns and New York Knicks are among those pursuing Anunoby, with the latter willing to offer multiple first-round picks, sources told The Athletic's Shams Charania.

Anunoby is on the second season of a four-year, $72-million contract. His deal includes a $19.9-million player option for the 2024-25 campaign.

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