NBA Mock Draft 9.0: LaMelo Ball falls out of the top 3; Knicks snag Obi Toppin

NBA Draft prospect Killian Hayes (Photo by Harry Langer/DeFodi Images via Getty Images)
NBA Draft prospect Killian Hayes (Photo by Harry Langer/DeFodi Images via Getty Images)
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NBA Draft
NBA Draft prospect Obi Toppin (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)

8. New York Knicks – Obi Toppin, F, Dayton

Selection and commentary: Paul Lombardi 

As the New York native fell to 8, I couldn’t help but snag the talented wing as the first pick for the New York Knicks. New York needs talent and lots of it, and although many speculate them going point guard with the 8th pick, the best move for them is to take the best available.

Obi will be able to stretch the floor as a high flying forward to add to the frontcourt. He’s great around the rim and lit up the stat sheet on most nights during his sophomore season at Dayton. Toppin averaged 20 points, eight rebounds, two assists, and one block per game on 63 percent shooting from the field and 39 percent shooting from 3-point range.

The reigning Wooden Award winner is just the right guy to shine in the bright lights of New York City.