The New York Knicks have decided to bring back Jacob Toppin, the younger brother of former Knicks lottery pick Obi Toppin, by signing him to a two-way contract. The team announced this decision on Wednesday, signaling their continued interest in developing Toppin as a player within their organization.
Jacob Toppin, standing at 6-foot-8, played sparingly for the Knicks last season, appearing in only nine regular-season games. Despite limited minutes at the NBA level, Toppin made a significant impact in the G-League with the Westchester Knicks. Over 25 games in the G-League, he posted impressive averages of 19.8 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game, showcasing his potential as a versatile forward. His performance in the G-League demonstrated his ability to contribute offensively and on the boards, hinting at the potential for further growth as he continues to develop his game.
Toppin’s return to the Knicks on a two-way contract highlights the team’s commitment to nurturing young talent and giving players time to evolve. Two-way contracts are designed to allow players like Toppin to split their time between the NBA and the G-League, providing them with valuable experience and opportunities to refine their skills. For Toppin, this contract means he will likely continue to play a significant role with the Westchester Knicks while being available for call-ups to the NBA roster when needed.
As a former standout at the University of Kentucky, Toppin is still considered a developmental player. His athleticism and versatility make him an intriguing prospect for the Knicks, who are likely hoping he can make the leap to become a more consistent contributor at the NBA level in the coming years. The team has a history of investing in players with potential and giving them the time and resources needed to develop.
In addition to Toppin, the Knicks have also signed rookies Ariel Hukporti and Kevin McCullar to two-way contracts, further solidifying their focus on building a strong foundation of young talent. These moves reflect the Knicks’ broader strategy of balancing experienced players with emerging prospects as they continue to build a competitive roster.
Jacob Toppin’s return to the Knicks offers him another opportunity to prove himself and work towards becoming a regular contributor in the NBA, and the team’s investment in his development suggests they believe he has the potential to do so.
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