Philadelphia 76ers targeting Obi Toppin to bolster depth for a bounce-back season
After enduring a tumultuous 2024-25 season, the Philadelphia 76ers are eager to reclaim their position as contenders when the new season kicks off. While the franchise’s core of star players is expected to return healthy, reinforcing their roster’s depth remains a critical focus as they prepare for the upcoming campaign.
Obi Toppin emerges as a trade candidate
Recent insights from Athlon Sports highlight Indiana Pacers forward Obi Toppin as a potential trade target for the 76ers. Toppin’s journey has been marked by a rocky start with the New York Knicks, but he has since flourished in Indiana. Over the past two seasons, Toppin has averaged 10.4 points and 4.0 rebounds per game while demonstrating impressive shooting efficiency—hitting 55 percent of his field-goal attempts and 38 percent from beyond the arc.
Challenges ahead for the Pacers
As the Pacers gear up for what promises to be a challenging season, particularly with Tyrese Haliburton’s recent Achilles injury, the possibility of moving players like Toppin into the trade market cannot be dismissed. Toppin has been instrumental in the Pacers’ playoff efforts during the last two seasons, contributing significantly to their deep postseason runs.
“He is a great scorer and rebounder who proved to be a key piece to a title-contending team last season who could be a solid addition to Philadelphia’s bench,” noted Holloway.
The depth the 76ers desperately need
For the 76ers, adding Toppin could provide much-needed relief off the bench. The team’s depth has been a concern, especially considering the unpredictable health of their star players. As they aim to bounce back from last season’s disappointments, acquiring a versatile player like Toppin could enhance their chances of securing a postseason berth.
Regardless of whether the 76ers successfully pursue Toppin, they are determined to re-establish themselves as serious playoff contenders after a frustrating 2024-25 season.