NY Knicks problem No. 3) What Obi Toppin could become if dealt elsewhere
When the NY Knicks drafted Obi Toppin eighth overall back in the 2020 NBA Draft, it was essentially confirmed that the front office saw the Dayton star as the team’s long-term answer within the frontcourt which, in turn, meant that Rose and co. would be then focusing on trading their veteran four, Julius Randle, at some point that coming season.
As we all know, however, Randle of course absolutely exploded onto the scene that same year, nabbing his first All-Star selection whilst guiding New York to their first playoff appearance since 2012 and finishing eighth in the running for league MVP.
As a result, the big man’s stupendous play and New York’s overall success wound up making the concept of following the team’s more-than-likely plans of trading the eighth-year pro hard to put into action and, instead, they went on to reward him with a long-term extension in the offseason, thus relegating their most recent lottery selection to a mere bench role.
Now, it appears that not only have the Knickerbockers made him into a simple role player, but it would appear that they’re not all that opposed to the concept of shopping him during this year’s trade season as it is rumored that the Knicks are open to making a big splash by the deadline and, well, undoubtedly Toppin would have to be included in a blockbuster package, for he is easily one of the team’s most valuable assets.
From deals for De’Aaron Fox to Damian Lillard, we are constantly seeing mocks including the big man heading outbound which, frankly, should have some a bit worried, for, if sent packing, there’s a real chance the NY Knicks will wind up seeing him become the type of franchise cornerstone many believed the former National college player of the year could be when drafted.
Let’s just say, for example, he were to be included in a trade for Fox and was dealt to Sacramento — it is with great confidence that I say he would become an absolute animal with the Kings whilst running alongside point guard, Tyrese Haliburton.
The pick-and-roll would be lethal, their fast breaks would be earth-shattering, and, ultimately, Sac-Town would have a tremendous one-two punch to develop and build around for many successful years to come. Quite frankly, the Kings are just one of a plethora of examples of potential destination that he could easily go on to thrive with.
Ultimately, what I’m getting at is that the young big looks like a franchise player in the making — all he needs is a prominent role within a starting rotation and watch him fly.
Buyers remorse is absolutely real and should he be offloaded in order to execute the desired blockbuster, the Knicks must be fully ready to accept this very possible reality of seeing their extremely talented prospect in Obi Topping explode elsewhere.
The key question Leon Rose must ask himself before making a final decision on such a move: Is it worth it?