The New York Knicks had high hopes for Obi Toppin when they selected him with the No. 8 pick in the NBA draft. Fast forward four seasons, and Obi Toppin is entering free agency for the first time—not as a Knick, but as an Indiana Pacer.
Obi Toppin’s Journey from New York to Indiana
Seen primarily as a one-dimensional player, Obi Toppin’s tenure with the Knicks was cut short under Tom Thibodeau’s coaching regime. The coach’s successful stint with the team saw Toppin traded to the Pacers for a couple of second-round picks. As Toppin enters the restricted free agency market, questions arise: Should the Knicks consider bringing him back?
Obi Toppin’s Performance with the Pacers
During his season with the Pacers, Obi Toppin showed significant improvement. He averaged over 10 points per game for the first time in his career and even became a starter for the Eastern Conference finalists, starting 28 games and playing in all regular-season games.
His stats—10.3 points, 3.9 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 1.1 steals/blocks per game—were all career highs, achieved in just 21.1 minutes per game.
Free Agency and Future Prospects
Obi Toppin’s postseason performance was notable, including a standout 21-point game against the Milwaukee Bucks. However, his defense remains a concern, as both the Knicks and Celtics exposed his vulnerabilities during matchups.
The Knicks, with 11 of 15 players under contract, face significant decisions regarding their frontcourt. Free agents OG Anunoby, Precious Achiuwa, and Isaiah Hartenstein will be off the books by July 1. Additionally, Bojan Bogdanovic and Jericho Sims will become unrestricted free agents in 2025, with Julius Randle potentially joining them if he declines his player option.
Strategic Considerations for the Knicks
With a potentially depleted frontcourt, the Knicks could explore submitting an offer sheet for Obi Toppin. Should they test Indiana’s resolve by forcing them to match a higher offer, thereby limiting their financial flexibility? Alternatively, could the Knicks humorously disrupt the Pacers’ plans, ending up with Toppin if Indiana doesn’t match their offer?
Looking Ahead
Obi Toppin’s future hangs in the balance as he enters restricted free agency. Whether the Knicks decide to bring him back or use the opportunity to strategically impact the Pacers, Toppin’s next steps will be closely watched. With his improved performance and the Knicks’ need for frontcourt depth, a reunion could be on the horizon, making this offseason one to watch for Knicks fans and NBA enthusiasts alike.
