The Philadelphia 76ers are rumored to be targeting Indiana Pacers forward Obi Toppinin a potential trade, aiming to strengthen their depth and athleticism for the upcoming NBA season. The deal could significantly impact both franchises and reshape Toppin’s role in the league, offering benefits and challenges for everyone involved.
A realistic scenario would send Kelly Oubre Jr. and Andre Drummond from Philadelphia to Indiana in exchange for Obi Toppin. The contracts nearly align in value, and the Sixers may also include a protected first- or second-round draft pick to increase Indiana’s return. This framework ensures both sides maintain competitive assets while adhering to salary cap requirements.
For the Philadelphia 76ers, Toppin provides an injection of athleticism and versatility. He offers rim-running ability, transition scoring, vertical spacing, and improved three-point shooting, making him a strong fit alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. His skill set allows him to play as a traditional power forward or in small-ball center lineups, addressing one of the Sixers’ major depth concerns.
Indiana would receive valuable veteran depth in Oubre, a crowd favorite who provides scoring and defensive versatility, and Drummond, whose presence helps after Myles Turner’s departure to Milwaukee. With Tyrese Haliburton sidelined, this veteran infusion stabilizes the roster while a protected draft pick gives the Pacers flexibility for a future reset or retool.
