Obi Toppin is thriving in Indiana’s NBA Finals run, and the Knicks’ decision to trade him for second-round picks is aging poorly. Did New York give up on young talent too soon?
As Toppin plays a vital role in the Indiana Pacers’ run to the NBA Finals, critics are revisiting the 2023 trade that sent the former No. 8 overall pick to Indiana for two second-round picks in 2028 and 2029. At the time, the move was framed as a necessary step to clear a path for Julius Randle. Now, with Randle gone and Toppin thriving, it looks more like a massive misstep.
Toppin Flourishing in the Role Knicks Didn’t Think He Could Handle
Since joining Indiana, Toppin has proven he’s more than capable as a high-energy bench contributor behind star forward Pascal Siakam. In 22 playoff games this season, the 26-year-old forward is averaging 9.8 points and 3.9 rebounds, while shooting 49.7% from the field, 33.3% from deep, and 69.4% at the line. He’s doing all this in the exact role the Knicks once doubted he could manage—coming off the bench behind a high-usage power forward.
Julius Randle Is Gone, and So Is the Insurance Policy
With Julius Randle now in Minnesota following an October trade, the Knicks are left without a reliable, athletic power forward option like Toppin. His absence is felt even more deeply as New York struggles to find scoring and energy off the bench in crucial playoff moments.
A Pattern of Giving Up on Young Talent?
According to Kristian Winfield of the New York Daily News, Toppin isn’t the only young talent the Knicks gave up on too soon during the Tom Thibodeau era. Players like RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley, and Quentin Grimes were also shown the door—moves that have raised concerns about the organization’s long-term development strategy.
Even after adding promising rookies such as Pacome Dadiet, Tyler Kolek, Kevin McCullar, and Ariel Hukporti in last year’s draft—and with James Nnaji possibly joining soon—the bigger question remains: Will these young players be given the runway to grow, or will history repeat itself?
Knicks’ Front Office Under Scrutiny
The Knicks’ front office, once praised for its aggressive pursuit of playoff success, now faces tough questions about its handling of homegrown talent. As Toppin continues to shine on the biggest stage, New York fans are left wondering what could’ve been if patience had won out.
Will the Knicks learn from their past mistakes, or will more rising stars slip through their fingers? Only time will tell. But for now, Obi Toppin’s rise in Indiana is a painful reminder of a decision the Knicks may regret for years.