In a widely-expected move, the Knicks traded former lottery pick Obi Toppin to the Pacers for two second-round picks.
The Knicks have agreed to a deal with the Pacers to send Obi Toppin to Indiana for two second-round picks, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. The deal cannot be completed until Thursday.
The trade marks the end of Toppin’s tenure in New York, one marked by an inability to eclipse the minutes barrier put on him by Julius Randle’s All-NBA play and a lack of trust from head coach Tom Thibodeau.
For the Pacers, Toppin represents a low-risk flier who is a good offensive fit with Tyrese Haliburton and rim protector Myles Turner, thanks to his combination of shooting and open-court athleticism. Whether Toppin beats out rookie top-7 pick Jarace Walker or backs him up, there should be plenty of minutes for him. In the 15 career games Toppin has started, he averaged 20.8 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 3.1 assists.
The Knicks, still rumored to be chasing free agent guard Donte DiVincenzo, will likely use Josh Hart as the primary backup power forward this season barring an unforeseen roster move.
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