Now in his second season as a member of the Indiana Pacers, Obi Toppin is continuing to prove how valuable he is to the team. Last season, Toppin had a career year and played a big role in the team's conference finals run. This year, he has developed into a much more well-rounded player and is making an impact at each level of the game.
Despite Toppin's success with the Pacers, there are some rumors that his time with the team could be coming to an end. Though he signed a new deal to remain in Indiana last summer, many have noted that his contract is tradable. Given that the Pacers are on the cusp of having to pay the luxury tax next season, trading Toppin away for financial flexibility could be a legitimate option.
On one hand, this could be a smart play for the Pacers as it gives them financial and roster flexibility. However, it is also a risky move considering how well Toppin has played in the Pacers' system. Regardless, after the March Toppin just had, what may seem like a difficult decision for the Pacers just got a whole lot easier.
Pacers must retain Obi Toppin after his incredible three-point display in March
In 17 games in the month of March, Toppin may have solidified his future in Indiana. During that span, the Brooklyn native averaged 11.9 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.6 assists. While this is solid on its own, it is his efficiency that really stood out. Across that same duration, Toppin shot 56% from the field and 45.8% from the three-point line on 4.2 attempts. To take it a step further, Toppin is shooting 55.2% from the floor and 40.2% from beyond the arc since the All-Star break.
Toppin has always been a solid scorer, but he has turned it up another level recently. However, it is not just his shooting that is leaving an impression. The fifth-year pro is contributing to the Pacers' brand of winning basketball, and he is becoming a much more important player because of his improved defense and rebounding.
After the Pacers' victory over the Sacramento Kings on March 31, head coach Rick Carlisle spoke about Toppin and called him "a difference-maker" for the team.
"Obi really was a difference-maker in this game with his offense," Carlisle said. "Also he battled defensively and he got some big rebounds."
Toppin is constantly proving that he is important to the Pacers' success, and he should only continue to get better from here on out. While saving money and having as much flexibility as possible makes sense for Indiana, it should not come at the expense of Toppin, who the team should keep around for the foreseeable future.