The influence is underestimated! The form of the substitute forward player has directly affected the Pacers competitiveness

In the third game of the latest NBA Finals, the Indiana Pacers rebounded at home, defeating the Oklahoma City Thunder 116-107, successfully adjusting the total score of the series to 2-1, regaining the initiative in this round of the series. In this game, the performance of substitute forward Obi Topin has improved significantly and has contributed considerable to the team's victory. In the game, Toppin played 27 minutes and 48 seconds, making 4 of 8 shots. Although he failed to hit a three-pointer, he still scored 8 points, 6 rebounds, 1 assist and 2 blocks, and the plus and negative value was as high as +18, ranking the best in the game. He showed good finishing and scoring skills at the offensive end, and scored for the team in other ways despite his poor outside feel. In addition, Topin is also excellent in defense, effectively protecting the rebounds and causing trouble to his opponents with his super athletic ability. His condition on the court is closely related to the overall situation of the team, and he can be said to be an important force for the team to win.

In the regular season this season, Toppin played 79 times in 82 games, averaging 19.6 minutes of playing time, bringing 10.5 points, 4 rebounds, 1.6 assists and other data, with a shooting percentage of 52.9% and a three-point shooting percentage of 36.5%. After entering the playoffs, his average playing time was reduced to 18.2 minutes in the first 19 games, but he was still able to contribute 8.8 points, 3.6 rebounds and 1.4 assists, despite his shooting percentage dropping to 49.2%.

However, Toppin's performance in the playoffs was not stable. Sometimes he became the key to the team's victory, such as the first game of the finals, but it seriously dragged down the team in some games, such as the dismal performance in the second game, which was disappointing. Although Toping does have the potential to play a key role in both offense and defense, it is still unknown whether it can maintain this state in the next game. Judging from recent games, if he can continue to show sufficient competitiveness, his help to the team will definitely be significantly improved.