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New York Knicks forward R.J. Barrett has only spent a limited amount of time around first-round pick Obi Toppin but the former third overall pick can already see what he brings to the roster.
Toppin was selected eighth overall by the Knicks after a sensational season at Dayton in which he was named the AP Player of the Year after averaging 20 points, 7.5 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.2 blocks and one steal. He has been touted for his versatility, something Barrett noticed.
“We work out at the same time every day so I’ve really been connecting with him, a great dude and a hard worker,” Barrett said on Tuesday. “Very talented, athletic and versatile. I’m excited to have him on our team. I feel like we’ll play well together. … He’s very versatile: Pick and roll, pick and pop, put it on the deck, he can shoot it. I’m excited to have him. He gives us another dimension; very talented.”
The Knicks loved Toppin during the pre-draft process and were said to even be interested in trading up to get him before he fell to them. Toppin should improve even more this season under head coach Tom Thibodeau, who has a strong track record in developing young players.
Led by Thibodeau, the Knicks figure to improve from a 21-45 record last season after a few free-agent additions and growth from the younger players on the roster.
The Knicks will begin preseason play on Dec. 11 vs. the Detroit Pistons.
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