When the New York Knicks drafted Obi Toppin 8th overall in the 2020 NBA draft, the front office not only saw a player with upside but a leader and positive energy human. Changing the course of the organization started in the locker room, ridding themselves of negativity and a losing mentality. Drafting Toppin seemed to be a backup plan in case Julius Randle struggled last year, but his emergence as one of the best players in the league forced Toppin into a background role — an expected reality for a rookie.
However, Toppin has an unstoppable work ethic, and he will find a way to make drastic improvements in his game.