In a surprising turn of events, forward Obi Toppin has agreed to a four-year, $60 million deal with the Indiana Pacers. This news was announced by Adrian Wojnarowski, despite Toppin being set to become an unrestricted free agent. The contract was completed early due to a new rule in the collective bargaining agreement that allows teams to negotiate with their own free agents as soon as the Finals ended.
Toppin, who had previously played for the New York Knicks, had a successful first season in Indianapolis last summer. He averaged 10.3 points and 3.9 rebounds, shooting 57.3% from the field and 40.3% from three-point range – all career highs. He made NBA history by being the first player eligible to shoot over 70% on 2-pointers and 40% on 3-pointers. Toppin’s athleticism and ability to run the floor were highlighted by the Pacers’ high-paced playing style, making him a favorite target for teammates Tyrese Haliburton and TJ McConnell.
Despite playing just 21 minutes per game, Toppin recorded 101 dunks last season, ranking 22nd in the league. He played a key role in the Pacers’ bench units that led the league in average points scored (46.8) and field goal percentage (51.3%). This contributed to the Pacers’ improved performance, winning 12 more games than the previous season and making the playoffs for the first time since 2020. They advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals after defeating the Milwaukee Bucks and New York Knicks but were eventually swept by
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