Rudy Gobert
Obviously, the Jazz won’t be trading Rudy Gobert for Obi Toppin. The New York Knicks might have to include RJ Barrett to get the Jazz to the bargaining table.
Alternatively, attaching Toppin to two first-round picks might suffice for Utah if they’re rebuilding. We’re confident that Thibodeau would vote yes. He might choose Gobert over Luka Doncic if he had full control.
After all, Gobert is the best rim protector in basketball. Thib’s defensive schemes largely revolve around protecting the paint. Combining his mind with Gobert’s unworldly wingspan should land the Knicks near the top of the NBA’s Defensive Rating rankings next season.
Meanwhile, the Jazz would only be interested in Toppin and picks if they were rebuilding. If they are, that’s a quality return for Rudy Gobert. They’ll have to absorb contracts in the process, likely those belonging to Evan Fournier and Derrick Rose. They shouldn’t flinch at that cost.
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If the Knicks are rebuilding, they should keep Toppin. He’s a multipositional defender with the athletic gifts to continue improving on offense. On the other hand, if they intend to stay competitive, he may be most valuable to them as a trade chip.
