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New York Knicks: 3 players who deserve more playing time

By Orestis Rantis

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - APRIL 20: Derrick Rose #4 of the New York Knicks dribbles during the second half against the Charlotte Hornets at Madison Square Garden on April 20, 2021 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - APRIL 20: Derrick Rose #4 of the New York Knicks dribbles during the second half against the Charlotte Hornets at Madison Square Garden on April 20, 2021 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images) /
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New York Knicks
Obi Toppin #1 of the New York Knicks grabs a rebound in the second half against the Washington Wizards (Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images) /

3 New York Knicks players who deserve more playing time: Obi Toppin

A lot had been said about Obi Toppin as he entered the league. Perhaps, so much that it started to get to his head. Toppin was initially viewed as a lock for the top-5 of the 2020 NBA Draft and was considered a huge steal after falling to the New York Knicks at No. 8.

The start to his NBA career was definitely a big letdown given the expectations that were set for him. Whether you wish to attribute it to his poor form or Randle’s rise to stardom, Toppin’s rookie season was just flat-out bad.

Fast-forward to this season, and the young forward seems to have performed a U-turn in his game. Showcasing a much more mature style of play, Toppin is making a strong case for a big boost in playing time.

Even though this certainly does not tell the entire story, here’s an interesting fact about Toppin’s season so far. During his rookie campaign, he scored in double-digits just 3 times in 62 games played. This year, he’s already done that four times, and the season only started 20 days ago.

Defensively, he’s an entirely different breed. He is bringing the energy and hustle every time he sets foot on the court, just like every young player trying to prove their worth. A plus/minus of +67 is the 26th highest in the league at the moment, and he’s amongst some star names.

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