Jacob Toppin Impressing With Westchester Knicks

"I like him a lot," Thibodeau said, per Stefan Bondy of the New York Post. "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."

Coming out of Kentucky, Toppin was not viewed as a big NBA prospect like his brother Obi, the eighth overall pick of the 2020 NBA Draft, was. The elder Toppin struggled to find a consistent role in the Knicks' rotation despite his high-profile selection and was dealt to the Indiana Pacers over the summer.

Like his brother, Topping brings a sense of athleticism that's hard to beat His time in Westchester has shown an expansion to his game, showcasing an ability to put the ball on the floor and beat his defender off the dribble. At 6-8 and 200 lbs., having a post threat like Toppin being able to move gives Westchester a potential x-factor as it works through its first season back in White Plains after three years in Bridgeport, Connecticut. 

Toppin expressed a desire to separate from his brother's skillset during training camp in October.

“We’re two different people,” Toppin said, per Steve Popper of Newsday. “Obviously, we’re going to be different players. I feel like I could bring a lot defensively. I think I could guard multiple positions. I’m just very versatile on that side. Obviously, whatever the team needs me to do, I’m going do.” 

Westchester returns to action on Wednesday night at Westchester County Center, facing Boston's affiliate from Maine (7 p.m. ET, MSG/ESPN+).