Why Obi Toppin’s Absence Is Making His Value Crystal Clear for the Pacers
Obi Toppin hasn’t played since October and has only logged three games for the Indiana Pacers this season. And yet, somehow, his stock is rising without him even stepping on the court. That tells you something about how well he fits in Indiana - and just how much the team misses what he brings to the floor.
Toppin’s Evolution in Indiana
When Toppin first arrived in Indiana, the narrative was simple: high-flyer, rim-runner, energy guy. But in his first two full seasons with the Pacers, he showed there’s a lot more to his game than just highlight-reel dunks.
Over that stretch, he averaged 10.4 points, 4 rebounds, and 1.6 assists in just over 20 minutes a night, shooting a strong 55.1% from the field and an impressive 38.3% from three. That kind of efficiency, especially from deep, gave Indiana a valuable stretch option in their frontcourt.
He’s not without his weaknesses - rebounding and defense still leave room for improvement - but Toppin has carved out a legitimate role. His ability to space the floor and occasionally slide into small-ball center duties gave the Pacers flexibility, especially in late-game situations. Even when Myles Turner was still anchoring the paint, Toppin found ways to close games, showing the coaching staff trusted his skill set in key moments.
The Pacers’ Identity - and What’s Missing Without Toppin
Indiana plays with pace. That’s not just a stylistic preference - it’s a core part of their identity.
The Pacers thrive in transition, leaning into a fast, free-flowing offense that puts pressure on opposing defenses. That’s where Toppin shines.
His speed, bounce, and ability to run the floor make him a natural fit for this system.
Without him - and without Tyrese Haliburton, who has also missed time - Indiana has had to slow things down. The offense is more half-court oriented now, with Andrew Nembhard stepping in to run the point.
While Nembhard has done a solid job, the overall tempo has dipped. The Pacers are still capable of pushing the pace in spurts, but it’s not the same without Toppin’s ability to get out in transition, stretch the defense, and finish above the rim.
The Frontcourt Rotation Without Toppin
Jay Huff has given Indiana some good minutes in Toppin’s absence, but there are questions about his long-term fit. Huff brings size and shooting touch, but he doesn’t have the foot speed or athleticism that Toppin offers. In a system built around quickness and movement, that matters.
Toppin doesn’t need to be the full-time center - and he shouldn’t be - but his ability to fill that role in certain lineups gives the Pacers valuable versatility. When he’s on the floor, Indiana can go smaller, faster, and more dynamic. That’s the version of the Pacers that’s toughest to guard.
Not Untouchable, But Close
Toppin isn’t untouchable in trade talks - no one on this roster truly is outside of a few core pieces. But right now, there’s little reason to believe Indiana is eager to move on.
At 27, he’s in his prime, and his skill set aligns perfectly with what this team wants to do. If the right deal came along, sure, the Pacers would consider it.
But it would have to be something special.
More than anything, this season has underscored how important Toppin is to Indiana’s vision. Even from the sidelines, his absence has highlighted the kind of impact he makes when he’s on the floor. And as the Pacers look to build toward a deeper playoff run - potentially as soon as next season - expect Toppin to be a key part of that push.
He’s not just a role player anymore. He’s a piece of the identity.