Why The New York Knicks Do The Deal 

For the Knicks, this is about fit. They’re acknowledging that Toppin doesn’t have a chance to leap Randle in their rotation. 

By contrast, Martin doesn’t need to. Martin is a little quicker than Toppin and more palpable at the 3. He can find minutes in this rotation between each forward spot more easily. 

Of course, that’s not all the Knicks are getting here. Yes, this pick from the Bucks will convey near the end of the first round. It’s still a solid asset for a player that they don’t appear likely to use anyway. 

Finally, Toppin will be due for a rookie extension after next season. This deal has the Knicks avoiding paying it.

NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Obi Toppin, New York Knicks & Houston Rockets Updates

Given how limited his role with the team is, that’s probably a wise decision. Even if they had higher expectations when they drafted Toppin.