New York Knicks Sign Kentucky Forward Jacob Toppin to Two-Way Deal

The New York Knicks made several moves during the 2023 NBA Draft, despite not having any picks. One of the notable additions to their roster is Jacob Toppin, the younger brother of Obi Toppin, who was a former lottery pick.

The Knicks signed Jacob Toppin to a two-way contract, providing an opportunity for the talented forward to showcase his skills at the professional level.

This signing comes amidst ongoing trade rumors involving Obi Toppin and tensions between him and head coach Tom Thibodeau.

Jacob Toppin began his collegiate career at the University of Rhode Island before transferring to play for the Kentucky Wildcats.

Standing at an impressive 6 feet 9 inches and weighing 205 pounds, Toppin showcased his versatility and athleticism on the court during his time in college.

In the most recent season, Toppin started in 31 games for the Wildcats, averaging 12.4 points and 6.8 rebounds per game.

Throughout his college career, he played a total of 116 games, exhibiting averages of 7.4 points and 4.5 rebounds per game.

Toppin’s performance and potential caught the attention of NBA scouts, leading to his opportunity with the New York Knicks.

The Timing of Jacob Toppin Signing

Jacob Toppin arrival on the Knicks’ roster comes at an intriguing time for the team. There have been persistent trade rumors surrounding his brother, Obi Toppin, who has been a part of the Knicks’ roster since being selected in the NBA Draft.

The Knicks’ management has expressed a willingness to explore trade options for Obi Toppin if it becomes evident that he will not receive increased playing time.

This situation has created speculation and uncertainty regarding Obi Toppin’s future with the team.

Furthermore, tensions arose between Obi Toppin and head coach Tom Thibodeau following the Knicks’ Game 4 loss to the Miami Heat.

Obi Toppin expressed frustration with his limited playing time, leading to a verbal altercation with Coach Thibodeau.

These tensions highlight the challenges and complexities of managing player rotations and expectations within a competitive NBA environment.

As Jacob Toppin joins the New York Knicks, he brings a unique skill set and the potential to contribute positively to the team. His athleticism, scoring ability, and rebounding prowess make him an exciting prospect.

While he may face some initial adjustments as he transitions from college to the professional level, Toppin’s dedication and work ethic will likely aid in his development as a player.

By signing Jacob Toppin to a two-way deal, the Knicks have secured a promising talent who can benefit from gaining experience with both the NBA team and its G League affiliate.

This arrangement allows Toppin to further refine his skills and adapt to the demands of the professional game.

It also provides the Knicks with an opportunity to assess Toppin’s long-term potential and contribution to the team’s future success.