Earlier this summer, the New York Knicks signed rookies Ariel Hukporti and Kevin McCullar to a pair of two-way contracts. Every team is given three two-way contract spots, meaning the Knicks had to be strategic with their final spot ahead of the 2024-25 season. According to an official statement they put out on social media, the team has signed a familiar face to their final two-way contract–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, brother of former Knicks forward Obi Toppin, joined the team as an undrafted free agent last season. In nine games, he averaged 1.4 points on 55.6% from the floor in 4.2 minutes. Additionally, he took part in this year’s Slam Dunk Contest. While his NBA stats are forgettable, Toppin enjoyed a good season in the G League. Playing for the Westchester Knicks, the forward averaged 19.8 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 2.7 assists in 25 games. Additionally, Toppin shot 48.8% from the field and 33.8% from the three-point line.
Last November, Knicks head coach spoke about Toppin and sang his praises for the Brooklyn native.
“I like him a lot,” Tom Thibodeau said. “I like the way he works. He’s done a good job. I think just 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 be a solid player in the NBA. However, it seemed clear during his rookie season that there is still a lot of work cut out for him. Toppin has the tools to be a solid rebounder and defender in the league. With more time in the G League, he should continue to develop and maybe become a rotational player in the long run.
Whether Toppin can eventually become a true NBA player or not remains unknown. Regardless, the Knicks have solid forwards on the roster as is. Unless he exceeds all expectations and takes a monumental step forward, Toppin will probably see minimal playing time with the Knicks. Although, it is noteworthy that Thibodeau seems to be a fan of his.
The Knicks Have Had a Busy Offseason So Far
This summer has been an interesting one for the Knicks. Near the beginning of the offseason, the Knicks acquired wing Mikal Bridges from the Brooklyn Nets in a trade. Additionally, they signed Cameron Payne and Chuma Okeke this summer. Furthermore, they re-signed Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby, and Precious Achiuwa.
On the flip side, they lost Isaiah Hartenstein to the Oklahoma City Thunder and Alec Burks to the Miami Heat. However, while these losses could sting for the Knicks, it is fair to say they improved this offseason.
Last season, the Knicks entered the playoffs as the No. 2 seed. After defeating the Philadelphia 76ers in the first round, the Knicks lost to the Indiana Pacers in seven games in the second round. With a new-look roster, the Knicks are primed to make a deeper playoff run next season and potentially find themselves in the NBA Finals.
