The New and Improved On Topic Obi Toppin Thread

[Swampy Meadows]

Obi hits back to back triples...and promptly sits. 8 points in 8 minutes.

https://twitter.com/nyknicks/status/...C57c3og9wpAAAA

[Swampy Meadows]

Crap. NYK expected to retain Thibs next year:

https://www.hoopsrumors.com/2022/03/...thibodeau.html

[Swampy Meadows]

Meanwhile, in New York:

https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...Cy3cWZluApAAAA

[BeckysTXA]

Originally Posted by Swampy Meadows Meanwhile, in New York: https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...Cy3cWZluApAAAA

Love DaRon. He’s a different player than Obi, but both very very athletic and talented. I have noticed DaRon does not get down court like Obi did at UD and still does in the NBA. I don’t know if DaRon has Obi speed, but it might be something they work with him on in his first off-season.

Never get tired of seeing Obi just flat out beat people down court because he can.

[Swampy Meadows]

Obi getting touches and buckets in the 2H:

https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...Cz-ZWWnuApAAAA

https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...C50ZWznuApAAAA

https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...CtzdbqnuApAAAA

https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...C5-bfun-ApAAAA

13 points in 14 minutes

[Gazoo]

Originally Posted by Swampy Meadows Obi getting touches and buckets in the 2H: https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...Cz-ZWWnuApAAAA https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...C50ZWznuApAAAA https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...CtzdbqnuApAAAA https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...C5-bfun-ApAAAA 13 points in 14 minutes

Do you notice that Obi keeps having to slow down to time his jump and get the ball? He's so far ahead of the passes they still haven't figured out where to find him.

[podcast411]

Originally Posted by Swampy Meadows Obi getting touches and buckets in the 2H: https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...Cz-ZWWnuApAAAA https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...C50ZWznuApAAAA https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...CtzdbqnuApAAAA https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...C5-bfun-ApAAAA 13 points in 14 minutes

Was at the game last night - good amount of boo's and WTF's when Obi was pulled in the 4th quarter and lots of cheers when he was put back in. He is a fan favorite.

They have a nice animation up on the score board for when he scores.

Was watching both the UD Mens and Women's games while watching the Knicks. Great night for all 3 teams.

Next up will be watching the Mens team in person at Vanderbilt while also hopefully having the women's team still playing as well.

[Swampy Meadows]

Obi came in with a minute to go in the 1Q and did this:

https://twitter.com/KnicksMSGN/statu...C-yYKJ3uIpAAAA

After that he grabbed a few boards and missed a three then sat after 5 minutes of run.

[ClaytonFlyerFan]

Originally Posted by Swampy Meadows then sat after 5 minutes of run.

a run? His +/- is 0

[Swampy Meadows]

Originally Posted by ClaytonFlyerFan a run? His +/- is 0

Run = PT

[Swampy Meadows]

Obi missed a coupla triples. got faked out by a guy who dunked it and Toppin fouled him to boot.

Three guesses what Thibs did next.

[Swampy Meadows]

In 6 1H minutes vs. Jazz Obi made a layup and hit 2 FTs:

https://mobile.twitter.com/KnicksMSG...97393177673730
Posted via Mobile Device

[Swampy Meadows]

In the 2H #1 scored two more hoops to give him 9 points in 13 minutes in another NYK loss.

One was a three and the other this breakaway:

https://mobile.twitter.com/KnicksMSG...Cy4fHVsuUpAAAA
Posted via Mobile Device

[Ready Action]

https://nypost.com/2022/03/21/tom-th...s-knicks-role/

It shouldn’t be too complicated. Thibodeau played just a nine-man rotation Friday. It’s clear Thibodeau still isn’t in enough of a developmental mode despite the standings looking bleak, as far as getting into the play-in tournament.

When asked about using nine men this late in the season, Thibodeau said, “Right now where we are, I don’t want to slow down Mitch [Mitchell Robinson], or where RJ is. It’s important to get back to where Quentin was as well. With the bench, I like the way Quick has played. We got to get Obi [Toppin] going again. We’ll have opportunities. It’s more situational right now with Deuce, and I love his defense. I want to try to take advantage of that. I think his offense is coming as well.’’

[Swampy Meadows]

Julius Randle is out for tonight’s Knicks game so our guy gets another spot start:

https://mobile.twitter.com/TheKnicks...98212436566017
Posted via Mobile Device

[Lifelong Flyer Fan]

Knicks on TNT tonight at 7:30PM

[Medford]

Time for Obi to take advantage of the opportunity and force Tibs hand.

[Ready Action]

Trey Young was way too much for the Knickerbockers tonight. Obi for the most part understands the offense, but he will need to continue to grow in understanding his defensive rotation obligations. I do not have doubt Obi will grow his understanding of the defense. Tonight his defense played a roll in he not being on the floor during the critical final stretch. Capela’s block on Obi’s dunk attempt probably will be on ESPN’s Top Plays.
Posted via Mobile Device

[Swampy Meadows]

Highlights:

https://twitter.com/Tom_Piccolo/stat...C9xfnN7ucpAAAA

https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1506426641165262851

https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...Co2YmH8-cpAAAA

https://twitter.com/sarahirt/status/...C50ZDQ9OcpAAAA

https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...Cp-bHy9ucpAAAA

https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...35221704503301

[maddog07]

Obi had the teams worst +\- tonight. He spent too much time standing in the corner. Often he was wide open but didn’t gets a pass, probably because he has a team worst 23% 3pt fg%. It’s not all on the system or the coach. If he’s going to be effective he’s got to do it inside where he has a high fg%.
Posted via Mobile Device

[ClaytonFlyerFan]

Originally Posted by maddog07 Obi had the teams worst +\- tonight. He spent too much time standing in the corner. Often he was wide open but didn’t gets a pass, probably because he has a team worst 23% 3pt fg%. It’s not all on the system or the coach. If he’s going to be effective he’s got to do it inside where he has a high fg%. Posted via Mobile Device

Do you really think the decision to stand in the corner was one Obi made? Or is he doing what the coach told him to do ?

[jack72]

Originally Posted by maddog07 Obi had the teams worst +\- tonight. He spent too much time standing in the corner. Often he was wide open but didn’t gets a pass, probably because he has a team worst 23% 3pt fg%. It’s not all on the system or the coach. If he’s going to be effective he’s got to do it inside where he has a high fg%. Posted via Mobile Device

Ah, the silly +/-. Only two of ten Knicks had positive +/-. When your team stinks and loses, that is what happens. Obi had 10 points and 7 rebounds on 5-7 shooting. Those are some stats that mean something.

[Medford]

They spent time talking about the Knicks on whatever the hell ESPN's morning radio show is called these days. JWills specifically questioned why the heck the Knicks didn't play Obi any minutes in the 4th quarter, calling out Thibs for his lack of development of younger talent.


Why the heck that show, which portends to be a national show spends so much time talking about the Knicks, Jets and Giants who have all stunk for many years now is beyond me, which is why I rarely tune in any more. Greeny could get away with it because he came off as a dorky, often apologetic fan when he asked questions about the Jets. Now, well the show kinda stinks.

[NJFlyr71]

Could be that ESPN is in Conn and the NY market is too big to ignore?

Not sure. But that could be the reason they spend time discussing Knicks, Giants and Jets.

My poor Giants ... a lost cause for years. Maybe the only time they get any meaningful PR


With the advent of talk shows being held remote you really don't know for certain if those discussions take place centrally in a studio in Conn.

[Hyde Park Flyer]

I’ve known some ESPN on-air guys for years. Their personnel decisions aren’t always what you would expect.
Posted via Mobile Device

[NJFlyr71]

I liked the Mike and Mike show but after that went away .... Nope!

[Alberto Strasse]

Originally Posted by jack72 Ah, the silly +/-. Only two of ten Knicks had positive +/-. When your team stinks and loses, that is what happens. Obi had 10 points and 7 rebounds on 5-7 shooting. Those are some stats that mean something.

for a starter. He needs to pick up his game.

[Medford]

Originally Posted by NJFlyr71 Could be that ESPN is in Conn and the NY market is too big to ignore? Not sure. But that could be the reason they spend time discussing Knicks, Giants and Jets. My poor Giants ... a lost cause for years. Maybe the only time they get any meaningful PR With the advent of talk shows being held remote you really don't know for certain if those discussions take place centrally in a studio in Conn.

I realize they are based in the market, I think the radio show broadcast out of NYC. However, it is broadcast nationally, and it seems like every time I tune it there is some sort of Jets or Giants discussion forced into the conversation despite both teams being terrible for the last several years. Not Patriots discussion or Philly or other east coast teams. Perhaps they really do the drive the ratings despite being national but its one of the reasons if I put on sports talk radio in the morning I tune in more to fox sports morning show over ESPN.

[Swampy Meadows]

Obi had perhaps his most compete game in a NYK win over Charlotte. He logged 40 minutes in place of Julius Randle and was 4 assists short of a triple double: 18 points, 11 boards, 6 dimes and a team high +19.

Lotsa highlights offensively and defensively all rolled into one reel:

https://twitter.com/IntuitionHoops/s...10374284357640

	Charlotte CHARLOTTE UNC Charlotte is one of a generation of universities founded in metropolitan areas of the United States immediately after World War II in response to rising education demands generated by the war and its technology. Now a research intensive university, UNC Charlotte is the fourth largest of the 16 institutions within the University of North Carolina system and the largest institution in the Charlotte region. The university comprises seven professional colleges and currently offers 18 doctoral programs, 62 master’s degree programs and 90 bachelor’s degrees. More than 900 full-time faculty comprise the university’s academic departments and the 2007 fall enrollment exceeded 22,300 students. Fellow members of the A10 Conference. Nickname is the 49ers.

[T-Bone 84]

Imagine that! Obi plays 40 minutes, and the Knicks win. Hmmmm…
Posted via Mobile Device

[jack72]

I guess Obi picked up his game!

[TheDuke2003]

Knicks should have tried to unload Randle at the deadline for whatever they could have got. Not going anywhere with him as the focal point of the offense. Build it around Barrett and get more athletic in the starting lineup.

[Flyer 86]

Passing and hustle was amazing.

No turnovers. Fans were salivating at the Obi we all know. When UNLEASHED he's a force of nature.

Spectacular game!

[Gazoo]

Originally Posted by Swampy Meadows Obi had perhaps his most compete game in a NYK win over Charlotte. He logged 40 minutes in place of Julius Randle and was 4 assists short of a triple double: 18 points, 11 boards, 6 dimes and a team high +19. Lotsa highlights offensively and defensively all rolled into one reel: https://twitter.com/IntuitionHoops/s...10374284357640

How his body language looked really good. He looked like he really belongs there, if they would just let the man play.

	Charlotte CHARLOTTE UNC Charlotte is one of a generation of universities founded in metropolitan areas of the United States immediately after World War II in response to rising education demands generated by the war and its technology. Now a research intensive university, UNC Charlotte is the fourth largest of the 16 institutions within the University of North Carolina system and the largest institution in the Charlotte region. The university comprises seven professional colleges and currently offers 18 doctoral programs, 62 master’s degree programs and 90 bachelor’s degrees. More than 900 full-time faculty comprise the university’s academic departments and the 2007 fall enrollment exceeded 22,300 students. Fellow members of the A10 Conference. Nickname is the 49ers.

[Fudd]

I am still wowed by Obi's hands. He is a great passer, but his hands are top notch. He almost never bobbles or loses the ball. He receives lobs of all kinds without fail.

[longtimefan67]

Originally Posted by Fudd I am still wowed by Obi's hands. He is a great passer, but his hands are top notch. He almost never bobbles or loses the ball. He receives lobs of all kinds without fail.

Agree 100%. He's practically automatic when a lob is thrown even somewhat accurately...he just finishes. Even last night when dunked on a drive, was fouled hard (no call; feet/legs undercut during the dunk) and he still delivers...

[CvilleFlyer]

Knicks next game is Friday night at 8:00PM against the Miami Heat. It will be interesting to see if Obi gets 40 minutes again. Anyone know how long Randle is out?

[Medford]

If I was in charge of the Knicks.... I'd sit Randle out the rest of the season. They are 5 games out of the playoffs with 9 games to go. Realistically they ain't coming back. Randle may or may not approve, but I'd tell him there is no reason to risk further injury at this juncture. I'd then play Obi as much as possible and try and get a better handle on how to use him.


Of course, if I was in charge, I wouldn't have Obi camped in the corner on 90% of the possessions.

[Flyer 86]

Originally Posted by Fudd I am still wowed by Obi's hands. He is a great passer, but his hands are top notch. He almost never bobbles or loses the ball. He receives lobs of all kinds without fail.

Very true. He's a ball magnet. His hands are great!

[Bucketnight]

Whether it is to get Obi more experience to stay or raise his trade value, it makes sense to get him more time. It also may make sense to shut down Randle and not risk further injury.
As a potential incentive, there is speculation that Zion wants to force his way out of New Orleans with the Knicks being his target destination.

[MrFlyerFanatic]

Originally Posted by Swampy Meadows Obi had perhaps his most compete game in a NYK win over Charlotte. He logged 40 minutes in place of Julius Randle and was 4 assists short of a triple double: 18 points, 11 boards, 6 dimes and a team high +19. Lotsa highlights offensively and defensively all rolled into one reel: https://twitter.com/IntuitionHoops/s...10374284357640

The play that Obi makes at about 50 seconds into the clip is vintage UD 2019-20. Passed up a good open shot for a great shot by a teammate. How many guys do that in the NBA?

	Charlotte CHARLOTTE UNC Charlotte is one of a generation of universities founded in metropolitan areas of the United States immediately after World War II in response to rising education demands generated by the war and its technology. Now a research intensive university, UNC Charlotte is the fourth largest of the 16 institutions within the University of North Carolina system and the largest institution in the Charlotte region. The university comprises seven professional colleges and currently offers 18 doctoral programs, 62 master’s degree programs and 90 bachelor’s degrees. More than 900 full-time faculty comprise the university’s academic departments and the 2007 fall enrollment exceeded 22,300 students. Fellow members of the A10 Conference. Nickname is the 49ers.

[BeckysTXA]

Originally Posted by MrFlyerFanatic The play that Obi makes at about 50 seconds into the clip is vintage UD 2019-20. Passed up a good open shot for a great shot by a teammate. How many guys do that in the NBA?

I noticed this too. He actually does it a couple times...and thus his 6 assists. You do not see this very often in the NBA.

[Swampy Meadows]

Obi starting again tonight vs the very tough Miami Heat. He picked up two quick PF so he got subbed out.
Posted via Mobile Device

[Swampy Meadows]

Hustle highlight: https://twitter.com/KnicksMSGN/statu...13614860787713

He hit a coupla triples then converted a hoop and the harm on a putback and scored on a breakaway:

https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...33946401218561

Later he stooped and popped:

https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...35773305917449

[frisco flyer]

Obi playing late in the 4th quarter in a close game.
That’s a first.
A respectable 15 and 8 in 25 min.

[CvilleFlyer]

Knicks defeat Heat 111-103 outscoring them 38-15 in the last quarter! Obi had 26min. total playing time. Thibs really spread the playing time around tonight with Barrett the most at 34min. and many others with 20+ min. each. Must have worked because the Knicks got the W!

[CvilleFlyer]

Originally Posted by frisco flyer Obi playing late in the 4th quarter in a close game. That’s a first. A respectable 15 and 8 in 25 min.

Obi was replaced by Burks at about the 47 second mark of the fourth quarter. Most of Obi's minutes were in the first half.

[longtimefan67]

Originally Posted by CvilleFlyer Obi was replaced by Burks at about the 47 second mark of the fourth quarter. Most of Obi's minutes were in the first half.

Obi’s most productive minutes were in the 3rd quarter

[Flyer 86]

Originally Posted by CvilleFlyer Knicks defeat Heat 111-103 outscoring them 38-15 in the last quarter! Obi had 26min. total playing time. Thibs really spread the playing time around tonight with Barrett the most at 34min. and many others with 20+ min. each. Must have worked because the Knicks got the W!

Until 10 days RJ AND OBI were lucky to be on the floor 4 minutes a game. They are thriving when playing together now.

At more like 23 to 28 minutes on the court together

[Swampy Meadows]

Obi and the Knicks are in Motown to face the Pistons. #1 has 8 markers in 8 minutes including a Sports Center top 10 dunk:
https://mobile.twitter.com/KnicksMSG...77426672758801

He also scored on a fastbreak pass from IQ: https://mobile.twitter.com/KnicksMSG...76272098275329

And made a pair of FTs. Also hit on a break on a dime from Evan Fournier:
https://mobile.twitter.com/KnicksMSG...73871635128322

[udpumpkin]

I know it is a common refrain about the NBA not calling travel but c'mon. I saw this Randle highlight while looking for Obi highlights. I'll take the Obi alley oops over 10 step defended threes.

https://twitter.com/KnicksMSGN/statu...iNimLbVRw&s=19

[CvilleFlyer]

Looks like the same amount of playing time for Obi now that Randle is back! Obi had 8pts. in 9 minutes in the first half and Randle had 15 minutes. Lets see if Obi even gets 15 minutes for the whole game even though the Knicks have a big lead at the half.

[shocka43]

Originally Posted by udpumpkin I know it is a common refrain about the NBA not calling travel but c'mon. I saw this Randle highlight while looking for Obi highlights. I'll take the Obi alley oops over 10 step defended threes. https://twitter.com/KnicksMSGN/statu...iNimLbVRw&s=19

Sad is what it is...

Some player beats guys with a move...violation isn't called...up next it will be 3 and a half steps.

[Ready Action]

Obi started out slow tonight by going 1 of 4 from the line. He made up for hitting back to back 3’s to bring the Knickerbockers back. I’m at the Garden and I can tell you the fans love Obi.
Posted via Mobile Device

[Swampy Meadows]

Obi's pair of treys: https://twitter.com/KnicksMSGN/statu...99971502776324

IQ to Obi for the oop: https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...C5pdyYz-8pAAAA

Meanwile, Julius Randle has 1 point at the half.

[Ready Action]

At the 3:25 mark of the 3rd quarter the crowd began to briefly chant “WE WANT OBI!”. Now Obi is in at the 3:00 mark. My son and I are cracking up
Posted via Mobile Device

[Swampy Meadows]

Obi came back in with 3 minutes to go in the 3Q, replacing Randle who is now up to 3 points and had just gotten T'ed up for cussing at the ref. He missed a triple but converted a driving layup, off a feed from IQ:

https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...15761752961026

But then missed a scoop shot. Later he got the hoop and the harm on another feed from IQ:

https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...C9-Yar2O8pAAAA

Obi then banged home another three: https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...CzjeKF2e8pAAAA

And drove to the hole for a pair: https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...Cy9dCh2e8pAAAA

I thought tonight would be the night that Thibs would wake the F up and let Obi finish.

Wrong!

Randle came back in with 3:30 to go.

[Sticks 'n Stearns]

Originally Posted by Swampy Meadows Meanwile, Julius Randle has 1 point at the half.

So you're saying Obi might get two minutes in the second half?

[Ready Action]

Originally Posted by Sticks 'n Stearns So you're saying Obi might get two minutes in the second half?

Yes he got extended minutes as Randle finishes with a horrible game, boos and 5 points.
Posted via Mobile Device

[CvilleFlyer]

Obi had 17pts. in 20 minutes! I would say that was being efficient!

[Marysville Flyer]

Originally Posted by CvilleFlyer Obi had 17pts. in 20 minutes! I would say that was being efficient!

Barrett is a big time chucker who almost never looks to pass.
Posted via Mobile Device

[Flyer 86]

Think obi hit 3 3s as well. Once he can do this consistently... WATCH OUT. Another outstanding game.

Garden was going Nuts for Obi last night also.

[Flyer 86]

Originally Posted by Marysville Flyer Barrett is a big time chucker who almost never looks to pass. Posted via Mobile Device

There are times he puts his head down true. Goes aggressive to the hole, cause he's a strong guy. However, he, quickly and Obi are developing chemistry the last 2 weeks.

A really great development for Obi.

[Medford]

Barrett has actually been playing pretty well over the last 2 months or so. He's developing into the player that they envisioned when they drafted him I think. He's definitely ball dominate, but I wouldn't call him a ball hog. He's a willing passer who doesn't force near as much as Randle. He's the kind of player they can build around IMHO.


Its becoming more obvious that Obi is a great complimentary piece. He's not an all NBA player, but if you put him on the floor with Barrett, a great PG, a floor spacing shooter and a solid center the ball won't stick in his hands long which helps open up shots for other players. He's also perhaps one of the best rim runners in the NBA. Not many bigs get up the floor better than him and most of the ones who can match him don't have his hands. He lacks the ball handling and outside shooting of the all-nba type 4s, which is why he works great as the 4th or 5th option; he doesn't need offensive sets to be run for him to effectively get points.

[TheDuke2003]

Originally Posted by Flyer 86 There are times he puts his head down true. Goes aggressive to the hole, cause he's a strong guy. However, he, quickly and Obi are developing chemistry the last 2 weeks. A really great development for Obi.

They need to ditch Randle and build a fast paced offense around Barrett. Obi is a great fit for that. Maybe try to package Randle, their 1st rd pick, and something else to move up and secure Kennedy Chandler as a true PG to team with them.

[podcast411]

Originally Posted by Swampy Meadows Obi came back in with 3 minutes to go in the 3Q, replacing Randle who is now up to 3 points and had just gotten T'ed up for cussing at the ref. He missed a triple but converted a driving layup, off a feed from IQ: https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...15761752961026 But then missed a scoop shot. Later he got the hoop and the harm on another feed from IQ: https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...C9-Yar2O8pAAAA Obi then banged home another three: https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...CzjeKF2e8pAAAA And drove to the hole for a pair: https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...Cy9dCh2e8pAAAA I thought tonight would be the night that Thibs would wake the F up and let Obi finish. Wrong! Randle came back in with 3:30 to go.

Got to Love Randle at the end of the game. I can't believe he will be back next year - not really sure he ever showed up this year for that matter.

https://twitter.com/livelikelefty/st...27285544472581

[Radar]

Originally Posted by podcast411 Got to Love Randle at the end of the game. I can't believe he will be back next year - not really sure he ever showed up this year for that matter. https://twitter.com/livelikelefty/st...27285544472581

You spell selfish: R-A-N-D-L-E

It's all about shots. He was 1-9. Even Obi got up more shots. Message in there? Perhaps. Let's hope so.

[Medford]

Last season was the "off" year for Randle, as in it was the 1 time in his career that he was a legit NBA all star, for the rest of his career this has been what he has always been. I highly inefficient black hole. The Knicks bought in that what they saw last year was going to stick.... it hasn't.


At the end of the day, Obi comes off as highly likable while Randle attitude seems off-putting. I have never met either in person and its possible the reverse is true (though I've never heard anyone in the UD community say anything negative about Obi as a person which tells me he's as genuine as he appears) and I think that is eating at Randle. Both sides need a split, just not sure if anyone out there actually wants Randle and his contract.

[flyerfanatic86]

Originally Posted by Medford Last season was the "off" year for Randle, as in it was the 1 time in his career that he was a legit NBA all star, for the rest of his career this has been what he has always been. I highly inefficient black hole. The Knicks bought in that what they saw last year was going to stick.... it hasn't. At the end of the day, Obi comes off as highly likable while Randle attitude seems off-putting. I have never met either in person and its possible the reverse is true (though I've never heard anyone in the UD community say anything negative about Obi as a person which tells me he's as genuine as he appears) and I think that is eating at Randle. Both sides need a split, just not sure if anyone out there actually wants Randle and his contract.

Can't speak for Randle, can vouch for Obi

[podcast411]

Originally Posted by Medford Last season was the "off" year for Randle, as in it was the 1 time in his career that he was a legit NBA all star, for the rest of his career this has been what he has always been. I highly inefficient black hole. The Knicks bought in that what they saw last year was going to stick.... it hasn't. At the end of the day, Obi comes off as highly likable while Randle attitude seems off-putting. I have never met either in person and its possible the reverse is true (though I've never heard anyone in the UD community say anything negative about Obi as a person which tells me he's as genuine as he appears) and I think that is eating at Randle. Both sides need a split, just not sure if anyone out there actually wants Randle and his contract.

I can vouch for Obi as well - at least for the few times I have met him and his Mom - they have been wonderful. Obi is always smiling - and just has a happy air about him. Comparing Obi to Randle is like Comparing Sandra Bullock to Lindsay Lohan.

The Garden also loves Obi - and his positive vibe - and you see that love on-line as well. I can't imagine the front office is blind to that. They want to give Fans reasons to come out - and CHEER on their team - not reasons to Boo their team.

Hopefully Randle is Gone as soon as the season is over - Obi in the starting lineup with RJ and hopefully a real pass first PG next year will lead to a fun Knicks team to watch.

[BeckysTXA]

The fans clearly love Obi. I would think players like taking the court with him too. He brings energy and will do whatever is asked of him to help the team. But most importantly, he will always give up a good shot to pass the ball to someone with a better shot.

[MrFlyerFanatic]

I would like to hear a conversation something like this:

Thibs: Good game Toppin. You need to bring that production every night.

Toppin: Thanks Coach. You give me minutes and I'll give you production.

[Ready Action]

From being in the arena last evening I gather RJ Barret is the crowd's favorite as loud chants for Barret spontaneous erupted throughout the night as he played. Chants for Obi Toppin during his play would begin and die out quickly. The loudest chants for Obi were for Thibs to put him back in the game . Both are shown great love by New Yorkers. All of the chants were started by a rowdy group of fans sitting in the end zone closet to the Knicks' bench and most of the rest of the area would joined in.

[Flyer 86]

I'm going tomorrow. They are playing Charlotte.
I lucked into great seats!

	Charlotte CHARLOTTE UNC Charlotte is one of a generation of universities founded in metropolitan areas of the United States immediately after World War II in response to rising education demands generated by the war and its technology. Now a research intensive university, UNC Charlotte is the fourth largest of the 16 institutions within the University of North Carolina system and the largest institution in the Charlotte region. The university comprises seven professional colleges and currently offers 18 doctoral programs, 62 master’s degree programs and 90 bachelor’s degrees. More than 900 full-time faculty comprise the university’s academic departments and the 2007 fall enrollment exceeded 22,300 students. Fellow members of the A10 Conference. Nickname is the 49ers.

[Swampy Meadows]

Obi scored soon after entering late in the 1Q, shot-faking a three and driving to the rack:

https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...C9oZzUl_IpAAAA

He had a great assist on an oop to Robinson: https://twitter.com/KnicksMSGN/statu...Cz3aHlmPIpAAAA

And then scored on his own oop from IQ: https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...C-9Z6EmfIpAAAA

Unfortunately he breathed on Kelly Oubre as he was shooting a three which resulted in a 4 point play.

4 points, a block, a dime and a board in 7 minutes.

[CvilleFlyer]

Randle replaced Obi with 7:45 remaining in the fourth quarter. The Knicks cut an 11 point Hornets lead to 2 points at the 5:53 mark but ended up losing by about 11 or 12. Obi had just 4 pts. in a total of 12 min. playing time! Who knows if it might have been a different outcome if Obi would have played the whole last quarter!

[Swampy Meadows]

https://twitter.com/FredKatz/status/1509938588619837444

Fred Katz
@FredKatz

Julius Randle is OUT for tomorrow’s game against the Cavaliers with the quad injury. Knicks say he’s day-to-day. There’s no plan as of today for him to shut it down for the season.

[CvilleFlyer]

Originally Posted by Swampy Meadows https://twitter.com/FredKatz/status/1509938588619837444 Fred Katz @FredKatz Julius Randle is OUT for tomorrow’s game against the Cavaliers with the quad injury. Knicks say he’s day-to-day. There’s no plan as of today for him to shut it down for the season.

Why is it that some NBA teams play 81 games and some play a total of 80? Some have three games remaining and some have four! The Knicks have three games remaining: Sat. 4/2 at 1PM a home game with the Cavs; Sun. 4/3 at 6PM an away game with the Heat and Wed. 4/6 at 7:30PM a televised home game on ESPN against the Nets.

Why not shut Randle down for all three games and give Obi his minutes!

[UD62]

Originally Posted by CvilleFlyer Why is it that some NBA teams play 81 games and some play a total of 80? Some have three games remaining and some have four! The Knicks have three games remaining: Sat. 4/2 at 1PM a home game with the Cavs; Sun. 4/3 at 6PM an away game with the Heat and Wed. 4/6 at 7:30PM a televised home game on ESPN against the Nets. Why not shut Randle down for all three games and give Obi his minutes!

Home game with the Raptors April 10 makes 81

[CvilleFlyer]

Originally Posted by UD62 Home game with the Raptors April 10 makes 81

Besides the game with the Raptors on April 10 I missed another one! The Knicks play at the Wizards at 7PM on Friday, April 8th. The game will be televised on NBATV. So all the NBA teams will have played 82 games with the regular season ending on April 10th.

With 5 games remaining it would be great if Obi got 30+ minutes in each game but don't count on it!

[Swampy Meadows]

Obi gets the starting nod in a game vs. the Cavs on Bally Sports in Ohio. He sits after 8 minutes and has 2 points (2-2 FTS), 2 boards and 2 dimes.

He got another 7 minutes of 1H PT and finished with 11 points (5-5 FTs), 3 rebounds and 4 assists.

Highlights:

https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...Cs-cyV3PUpAAAA

https://twitter.com/KnicksMSGN/statu...C53Zi03PUpAAAA

https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...Cq4eqL3fUpAAAA

[Swampy Meadows]

In the 2H Obi got his oop on over gray haired Kevin Love:

https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...27565319172097

Also hit a triple: https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...Coqcvd4fUpAAAA

[CvilleFlyer]

In an 18 point loss to the Cavs today Obi was the leading scorer with 20 points in 31 min. playing time. His line was 5-10 from the field (1 for 4 on 3 pointers), 9-9 on free throws with 4 rebounds and 4 assists. Barrett was off today shooting 4 for 18! Randle was in street clothes. Maybe in tomorrows game at Orlando Obi might be fortunate to get as many minutes. We will find out what day to day means for Randle's injury.

[jack72]

Originally Posted by CvilleFlyer In an 18 point loss to the Cavs today Obi was the leading scorer with 20 points in 31 min. playing time. His line was 5-10 from the field (1 for 4 on 3 pointers), 9-9 on free throws with 4 rebounds and 4 assists. Barrett was off today shooting 4 for 18! Randle was in street clothes. Maybe in tomorrows game at Orlando Obi might be fortunate to get as many minutes. We will find out what day to day means for Randle's injury.

And a -18. That stat is worthless.

[Swampy Meadows]

Obi starting again vs. the Mickey Mouse Magic. He scored on a high/low pass and then nailed a triple:

https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...45091404537857

He missed and then made another three. In 15 1H minutes, Obi has 8 points, 2 boards, a block and a +16.

In the 2H #1 hit a pair of freebies and this fadeaway J:

https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...61739226210305

In the space of ten seconds Obi scored on his signature break away dunk:

https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...64373295345666

and then rained down another three: https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...Ct9f7qqPcpAAAA

After 3Q he's up to 20 points.

The NYK are absolutely curb-stomping the Magic. Obi finishes with 20 points and 8 rebounds and a remarkable +44.

[podcast411]

Originally Posted by Swampy Meadows Obi starting again vs. the Mickey Mouse Magic. He scored on a high/low pass and then nailed a triple: https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...45091404537857 He missed and then made another three. In 15 1H minutes, Obi has 8 points, 2 boards, a block and a +16. In the 2H #1 hit a pair of freebies and this fadeaway J: https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...61739226210305 In the space of ten seconds Obi scored on his signature break away dunk: https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...64373295345666 and then rained down another three: https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...Ct9f7qqPcpAAAA After 3Q he's up to 20 points. The NYK are absolutely curb-stomping the Magic. Obi finishes with 20 points and 8 rebounds and a remarkable +44.

Obi with an insane +46 tonight. And had 20 pts with 4-10 from 3pt range. Knicks looked the best I have seen all season with the line up close to what it will be next season.
Posted via Mobile Device

[CvilleFlyer]

Obi got a total of 35 minutes playing time tonight against the Magic. That's 31 and 35 in two consecutive games. He is not only shooting well from the field but he is 11 for 11 on free throws in the two games.

If the Knicks don't trade Randle in the offseason it is going to be disappointing for the fans to see Obi's minutes reduced to 10 or 15 next year as a sub. He is a fan favorite!

[ClaytonFlyerFan]

Originally Posted by podcast411 Knicks looked the best I have seen all season with the line up close to what it will be next season. Posted via Mobile Device

I love your enthusiasm and hope you are correct, but the Magic are pathetic, owners of the worst record in the NBA. Plus as long as Thibs is the coach I have a hard time believing this lineup is close to what we will see next year.

[Gazoo]

How many times does he have to prove that if you play the man he delivers the numbers?

[Larry67]

https://www.postingandtoasting.com/2...pin-got-his-20

[Ready Action]

Obi's time to shine and be a mentor.

https://nypost.com/2022/04/04/knicks...us-randle-out/

Power forward Feron Hunt, signed last month to the second two-way deal after injured Luka Samanic was waived, could be on the move to the big club. He finished off with a 15-point, 10-rebound, five-assist game Saturday.

In seven Westchester Knicks games, Hunt, 22, averaged 16.9 points, shot 54.3 percent — 31.8 from 3-point range. An SMU graduate, the 6-foot-8 Hunt started the year as a full-time G-Leaguer with the Texas Legends before the Knicks signed him to a two-way contract.

There could be room for Hunt to see some action since Julius Randle has shut it down for the season. Randle didn’t make the trip here, and Thibodeau said he’s “most likely’’ finished.

[TheDuke2003]

Step One: Fire Thibs
Step Two: Trade Randle
Step Three: Draft Mark Williams to have an uber athletic post with him and Obi that can run
Step Four: Build around Barrett
Step Five: Profit!

[Swampy Meadows]

OBI TOPPIN’S RECENT SUCCESS CLOUDING KNICKS FUTURE

https://theknickswall.com/obi-toppin...knicks-future/

Obi and the NYK on ESPN tonight at 7:30 pm EDT

[UDTradition]

Originally Posted by Swampy Meadows OBI TOPPIN’S RECENT SUCCESS CLOUDING KNICKS FUTURE https://theknickswall.com/obi-toppin...knicks-future/ Obi and the NYK on ESPN tonight at 7:30 pm EDT

Great articles especially video on BIOMECHANICS.

[Medford]

For those that have watched "Winning Time" about the rise of the 80s Lakers, there was a scene when the new coach took over for Jerry West. He's talking to the team about his philosophy and what he wants to do by getting out on the break at all times and the players respond "yeah but we can only break so many times a game, they aren't going to turn it over every possession". The coach (Jack MacKinney I believe) responds that he wants to them to try and establish the break off rebounds and made baskets, not just wait for the opportunity for quick points but take control and force the opportunity for quick points.


Obi would have fit in great on those showtime Lakers squads of MacKinney, Westphal and Riley. That article made me think of that; his energy is thru the roof (about as much of a 180 as you can get from Randle) and every possession can become a fast break with Obi and the right PG. I'm not sure that the Knicks have the right PG.


If you haven't see it, its well worth 1 month of HBO when its done to watch them in, fantastic just make sure the kids aren't anywhere around cause its certainly not family friendly.

[ClaytonFlyerFan]

Originally Posted by Swampy Meadows OBI TOPPIN’S RECENT SUCCESS CLOUDING KNICKS FUTURE https://theknickswall.com/obi-toppin...knicks-future/ Obi and the NYK on ESPN tonight at 7:30 pm EDT

So it really took recent success with Randle out for the Knicks future to become "cloudy" and they now realize what they might have with Obi and the other young guns?

I, like many other Obi fans and Knick fans have been saying this since November.

Thibs needs to go, or Obi needs to go. No future playing for him, regardless of what the last few games have shown.

[BeckysTXA]

Obi doesn’t have really any say in whether he gets traded or not, but I’m not sure he was “ready” to be traded. I’m sure if it was his decision he would have said he didn’t want to leave NY and his childhood team the Knicks. I think that might have changed this year. I think it might be an area that he grew and learned as a pro this season. I think if he does get traded, he will be excited for the new opportunity. And just as important, I think his extended family will be excited too. I’m sure Ronnie will miss having her son and grandkids close, but he has shown so much more this year on what can be...and everyone close to him wants that for him. I hope he gets that opportunity sooner rather than later. He signed a 4 year contract. I would hate to see him have to wait 4 years to get it. Next year could be huge for him if he gets p,suing time. His 3rd year at Dayton worked out pretty well.

[Swampy Meadows]

Obi starting again tonight vs. the crosstown rival Nets on ESPN. He went 1-2 from the FT line. He missed a J under the hoop and should have at least 2 assists but guys missed their shots. The NYK tried two high/low passes in a row to Jericho Sims and neither one worked. Obi ain't gettin' the touches, kids. He got one and missed a wide open three.

Finally! #1 faked the trey and drove to the hoop for a deuce:

https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...58531842072582

Then he hit a trey for the lead:

https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...59279195742208

Obi got hit under the hoop to open the 2Q and split the pair. IQ then found him on a high/low that, unlike the two to Sims, worked:

https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...Cz1eyGm_spAAAA

Obi came back in with 4:30 to goin the 1H and immediately nailed a three:

https://twitter.com/TheKnicksWall/st...C9zfjRnPspAAAA

He then found Fournier in the corner for a wide open triple and the NYK now lead 63-46.

In 19 1H minutes our guy has 12 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists, a steal and a block. Meanwhile, Julius Randle is looking real good in street clothes.

[Justin]

Obi gets hot and thibs takes him out. He needs to go.

[John C.]

Who is this Thibs guy? I thought the guys that made the most money got to play the most and it was free substitution, when you felt.like coming out you just ce out.