4 Pacers whose stocks are skyrocketing, 3 that are fading fast
By Tyler Watts
Stock skyrocketing: Obi Toppin
The Knicks selected Toppin eighth overall in the 2020 NBA Draft ahead of Tyrese Haliburton, Tyrese Maxey, and Desmond Bane, but things never quite worked out in the Big Apple. Toppin struggled to get minutes behind Julius Randle and could not break out. New York traded the 6’9 forward for two second-round picks this offseason, and the Pacers were excited to land the talented 25-year-old.
Toppin has been the starter since opening night and is finally getting his chance to shine. He is leading the league by shooting 76.4 percent from two-point range as half of his field goal attempts are coming inside three feet. It has allowed him to score 11.1 points in just 22.7 minutes per game.
His 3-point attempts and percentage are down, but the Pacers have the league’s best offense with Toppin playing a key role.
The 25-year-old must improve to be a long-term starter. He has played below-average defense and must do more than throw-down monster dunks. His jumper needs work, but coach Carlisle has had success in developing 3-point shots over the years. Toppin becomes a restricted free agent in the summer of 2024, and he must continue to grow his game if he wants a massive contract.