New York Knicks: Obi Toppin, Mitchell Robinson front court more compatible than Blake Griffin, DeAndre Jordan

On November 18th, 2020, during an unprecedented virtual NBA draft, the New York Knicks selected a sniper who happens to be a high-flying power forward by the name of Obi Toppin. The ferocious dunking Obi Toppin is the son of a New York City streetball legend known as “Dunkers Delight.”

Toppin is an efficient scorer, excellent passer, and an effortless floor spacer, which is why he’ll be a very compatible piece next to Mitchell Robinson in the Knicks frontcourt. The former Dayton Flyer is a shooting guard trapped in a 6’9” 220lbs athletic body. Blake Griffin is a power forward who can occasionally stretch the floor after 11years in the NBA. Griffin’s compatibility with DeAndre Jordan worked half a decade ago due to Blake’s reliance on athleticism, however, Toppin’s natural shooting ability already makes the fit more seamless than Blake and DeAndre’s frontcourt pairing during their Clipper days.

Many were surprised Obi Toppin fell to the 8th pick. Some mock scouting reports had the former Dayton high flyer getting picked top three in the draft. Leon Rose celebrated the pick with two fists in the air during the early stages of a wild virtual NBA draft night.

The Knicks went on to select Immanuel Quickley, a sharpshooting guard from Kentucky. Quickley is another seamless fit at shooting guard for the Knicks. Quickley may be slightly undersized at 6’3”, however, he possesses a 6’8” wingspan and shoots a scorching 90% from the free-throw line. The 2020 NBA draft was similar to the “Wild Wild West,” yet Leon Rose and company managed to work under pressure and gain valuable assets for the Knicks.

Overall, Obi Toppin will be able to help the Knicks immediately. Many are concerned with Toppin’s defensive liability, however, Tom Thibodeau, Kenny Payne, and Mike Woodson will help the 22-year-old rookie on the defensive end of the court. Fans, grab your popcorn and get ready for free agency.