Grading key Knicks players through first half of 2022-23 season
Obi Toppin: C
Previous Grade: C+
After starting off the season incredibly hot, things have been pretty rough for Toppin. Not only did he cool down immensely, but he has also been dealing with an injury that has caused him to miss the last 15 games.
On the season, Toppin is averaging 7.7 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.0 assists while shooting 42.1% from the field and 35.1% from three. When you combine his offensive struggles with his already moderately poor defense, it doesn’t look too hot.
It doesn’t help that a player who has the potential to be one of the best finishers in the league is used as a spot-up shooter, but there have been moments where he settled for threes as opposed to driving to the basket.
Hopefully once Toppin returns to the rotation he can be used in more pick-and-roll plays, as that is where he really shines. If not, it may be best for the Knicks to trade the 24-year-old so that he can flourish elsewhere.
Jericho Sims: B
Previous Grade: B
Ever since Tom Thibodeau cut the rotation down to nine, Jericho Sims has given the Knicks some very valuable minutes, serving as a Mitchell Robinson-lite with his two-way abilities down low.
In 32 games, Sims is averaging 3.6 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 0.6 blocks in just 12.3 minutes per game while shooting an incredible 77.9% from the field. The limited minutes and shot range make it easy to be so efficient, but it’s still impressive to see.
Sims’ offense isn’t even the best part of his game. His unique combination of size, speed, and athleticism allows him to be a rather versatile defender. While he shouldn’t be guarding wings and backcourt players for extended periods of time, the moments where he needs to switch onto someone on the perimeter for a play usually ends in his favor.
As I mentioned before, there is a good chance that we see Sims replace Hartenstein in the rotation if he doesn’t improve. While in the Knicks’ win over the Raptors on Friday, Thibodeau cut the rotation to eight, I don’t think that will be a long-term move as the players can only play so many minutes for so long.
Sims has always been a fun player to watch, but the fact that he can now make a legitimate contribution while being a former 58th overall pick is just flat-out impressive. Hopefully, he can keep up this level of play as the season goes on and be rewarded with more minutes.
