Obi Toppin and the Pacers Sign Four-Year $60 Million Deal: A Look into the Fascinating New Rule of NBA’s Collective Bargaining Agreement

The Indiana Pacers and forward Obi Toppin have reached a four-year, $60 million agreement, as reported by Adrian Wojnarowski. Despite being set to become an unrestricted free agent, the deal was completed early due to a new rule in the collective bargaining agreement that allowed teams to negotiate with their own free agents as soon as the Finals ended. Negotiations with all free agents began Sunday night at 6 p.m. ET.

Toppin, who had previously played for the New York Knicks, joined the Pacers last summer and had a successful first season in Indianapolis. He averaged 10.3 points and 3.9 rebounds, shooting 57.3% from the field and 40.3% from three-point range – all career highs. His athleticism and ability to run the floor were highlighted by the Pacers’ high-paced playing style, making him a favorite target for teammates Tyrese Haliburton and TJ McConnell.

Despite playing just 21 minutes per game, Toppin recorded 101 dunks last season, ranking 22nd in the league. He played a key role in the Pacers’ bench units that led the league in average points scored (46.8) and field goal percentage (51.3%). This contributed to the Pacers’ improved performance, winning 12 more games than the previous season and making the playoffs for the first time since 2020