DONE DEAL: Knicks confirm another huge Contract deal
Earlier this summer, the New York Knicks signed rookies Ariel Hukporti and Kevin McCullar to two-way contracts. Each team is allotted three two-way contract slots, so the Knicks had to carefully choose their final player for the 2024-25 season. In an official social media announcement, the team revealed that they have filled the last spot with a familiar face—Jacob Toppin.
.@nyknicks Sign Jacob Toppin to Two-Way Contract pic.twitter.com/FBCjRhbfZk
— NY_KnicksPR (@NY_KnicksPR) August 14, 2024
The 24-year-old, who is the brother of former Knicks forward Obi Toppin, joined the team as an undrafted free agent last season. In his nine appearances, he averaged 1.4 points on 55.6% shooting in just 4.2 minutes per game. He also participated in this year’s Slam Dunk Contest. While his NBA statistics are modest, Toppin had a strong showing in the G League with the Westchester Knicks, where he averaged 19.8 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 2.7 assists over 25 games. He shot 48.8% from the field and 33.8% from beyond the arc.
Last November, Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau expressed his admiration for Toppin, praising the Brooklyn native’s work ethic.
“I like him a lot,” Thibodeau said. “I like the way he works. He’s done a good job. For him, the challenge will be developing consistency with his shot, but he’s a very good all-around player.”
Knicks Re-Sign New York Native to Two-Way Contract
Jacob Toppin Probably Will Spend Most of His Time in the G League
Toppin has the potential to become a solid NBA player, but his rookie season made it evident that he still has a lot of development ahead. He possesses the tools to be a strong rebounder and defender in the league, and with additional time in the G League, he could continue to grow and perhaps evolve into a reliable rotational player.
Whether Toppin will eventually secure a true spot in the NBA remains uncertain. However, the Knicks already have a strong group of forwards on their roster. Unless Toppin significantly exceeds expectations and makes a major leap forward, his playing time with the Knicks will likely be limited. That said, it’s worth noting that head coach Tom Thibodeau seems to have a favorable view of him.
The Knicks Have Had a Busy Offseason So Far
This summer has been eventful for the Knicks. Early in the offseason, they acquired wing Mikal Bridges from the Brooklyn Nets in a trade. They also bolstered their roster by signing Cameron Payne and Chuma Okeke, while re-signing key players Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby, and Precious Achiuwa.
On the downside, the Knicks lost Isaiah Hartenstein to the Oklahoma City Thunder and Alec Burks to the Miami Heat. While these departures could be felt, it’s fair to say the Knicks have made overall improvements this offseason.
Last season, the Knicks entered the playoffs as the No. 2 seed. They defeated the Philadelphia 76ers in the first round before falling to the Indiana Pacers in seven games in the second round. With their revamped roster, the Knicks are poised for a deeper playoff run next season, potentially even contending for a spot in the NBA Finals.