A Toppin is helping the Knicks win games, but far from the way anyone could've predicted back in 2020.
Jacob Toppin, the brother of former New York Knick Obi, has been on a tear for the team's G League affiliate in Westchester. Over the past three contests, Toppin is averaging 26.3 points and 9.7 rebounds per game, a statline that accounts for a 37-point, 10-rebound double-double in a win over Raptors 905.
In that span, Westchester (5-2) has jumped to the top of the G League's East division standings.
The younger Toppin's rise is no surprise to Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau, as it's apparent the undrafted rookie has left an impact on him despite only working with him during training camp and the preseason.
"I like him a lot," Thibodeau said, per Stefan Bondy of the New York Post. "I like the way he works. He’s done a good job. I think just for him, the challenge will be developing consistency with his shot. But he’s a very good all-around player."
Coming out of Kentucky, Toppin was not viewed as a big NBA prospect like his brother Obi, the eighth overall pick of the 2020 NBA Draft, was. The elder Toppin struggled to find a consistent role in the Knicks' rotation despite his high-profile selection and was dealt to the Indiana Pacers over the summer.
Like his brother, Topping brings a sense of athleticism that's hard to beat His time in Westchester has shown an expansion to his game, showcasing an ability to put the ball on the floor and beat his defender off the dribble. At 6-8 and 200 lbs., having a post threat like Toppin being able to move gives Westchester a potential x-factor as it works through its first season back in White Plains after three years in Bridgeport, Connecticut.
Toppin expressed a desire to separate from his brother's skillset during training camp in October.
“We’re two different people,” Toppin said, per Steve Popper of Newsday. “Obviously, we’re going to be different players. I feel like I could bring a lot defensively. I think I could guard multiple positions. I’m just very versatile on that side. Obviously, whatever the team needs me to do, I’m going do.”
Westchester returns to action on Wednesday night at Westchester County Center, facing Boston's affiliate from Maine (7 p.m. ET, MSG/ESPN+).
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