Obi Toppin trade report resparks Tom Thibodeau frustration all over again
New York Knicks fans are well aware that there’s a high possibility that Obi Toppin has already played his final game in an orange and blue uniform. It was thought he’d be dealt ahead of the trade deadline in February, but now that it’s the offseason, a trade could happen.
Toppin is eligible to sign an extension this summer, however, the chances of that happening are low. The 25-year-old was a lottery pick in 2020 but he’s averaged only 7.0 points and 3.0 rebounds in 14.7 minutes since entering the league. His rookie season lined up with Julius Randle’s first All-NBA/All-Star season, and since then, Toppin’s had a limited role under Tom Thibodeau.
He hasn’t said anything publicly about his role, but that doesn’t mean he’s happy with it. According to New York Daily News’ Stefan Bondy (subscription required), “A source said Toppin was frustrated at times with his role, although he refrained from complaining to the media.”
If the forward would’ve complained to the media about his role, fans would’ve agreed with him. The frustration surrounding his playing time has been a point of contention for Knicks fans, and it was at a high during Randle’s disappointing 2021-22 season. Since Randle bounced back this past season and is presumably in New York’s future plans, the door to an Obi trade is wide open.
Obi Toppin was reportedly frustrated with limited Knicks role in 2022-23
Obi Toppin has been linked to several teams, namely the Pacers. In Indiana, he’d get the increased role that he’s been patiently waiting for. At this point, Knicks fans should be rooting for what’s in Toppin’s best interest, but there’s always the possibility that if he goes elsewhere, he could make New York regret trading him in the first place.
Toppin hasn’t fully gotten to show what he’s capable of, and a large part of that is because of the way that he’s been used by Tom Thibodeau. Similar to the Cam Reddish situation, Toppin has spent a lot of time stashed in the corner as a spot-up shooter. His explosiveness and athleticism have been overlooked by Thibodeau, who isn’t known as an offensive guru for a reason.
Thibodeau has favored Julius Randle since he took over as head coach in 2020. Look no further than what former Knicks Theo Pinson and Reggie Bullock had to say about how Thibs treats Randle. Toppin hasn’t stood much of a chance.
As much as it would sting for Knicks fans to learn that Toppin has been traded away from New York, there’s no denying that he deserves better. He’s been waiting for his moment to take over, and that simply hasn’t happened (and likely won’t) with the Knicks.
