ESPN BOMBSHELL: Pacers’ Massive Role Player Reportedly Joins Giannis, Bucks on $107 Million Deal Following Pacers Exit
In a stunning free agency twist that’s shaking up the Eastern Conference, veteran forward Obi Toppin—widely regarded as a crucial piece of the Indiana Pacers’ playoff success—has reportedly agreed to a four-year, $107 million contract with the Milwaukee Bucks, according to ESPN insiders. The move pairs Toppin with two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo and All-Star Damian Lillard, forming one of the most athletic and dynamic frontcourts in the NBA.
The signing comes just days after Toppin declined to re-sign with Indiana, where he emerged as one of the league’s most improved role players during the 2024–25 season. Averaging a career-high 15.4 points and 6.8 rebounds per game while shooting over 39% from three, Toppin showcased a new level of versatility that made him one of the hottest names on the market.
A Huge Win for Milwaukee
For the Milwaukee Bucks, landing Toppin is more than just a splashy addition—it’s a strategic chess move. After a frustrating early playoff exit and a season plagued by inconsistency, the Bucks made it clear they were willing to shake things up to capitalize on Giannis’s prime years. Toppin’s athleticism, floor spacing, and transition ability offer exactly what Milwaukee was missing: a high-motor forward who can defend multiple positions and finish at the rim.
“Obi’s going to thrive next to Giannis and Dame,” said one Eastern Conference scout. “He doesn’t need the ball to impact the game, but he can still stretch the floor and kill you in transition. This is a perfect fit.”
Sources indicate that the Bucks had been eyeing Toppin for weeks, seeing him as a younger, more explosive answer to their aging frontcourt rotation. With Brook Lopez nearing the twilight of his career and Bobby Portis frequently in trade rumors, Milwaukee needed fresh legs—and Toppin brings that and more.
A Costly Loss for the Pacers
The move is a bitter blow for Indiana, who had hoped to keep their young core intact after a surprise run to the Eastern Conference Finals. Toppin, alongside Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam, played a crucial role in powering the Pacers’ fast-paced attack and energetic defense. Despite initial optimism around contract talks, sources say Indiana was unwilling to match Milwaukee’s lucrative offer.
“Obi earned that deal,” one Pacers assistant said anonymously. “But it’s tough. He was loved in our locker room. We’re going to miss that edge.”
Indiana will now likely turn to the draft, internal development, or a potential sign-and-trade to soften the blow of Toppin’s departure.
What This Means for the East
With Toppin on board, the Bucks are signaling an aggressive push for another championship before the window begins to close. Their lineup now features one of the most physically imposing frontcourts in the league, with Toppin’s springy athleticism providing a key upgrade in transition and perimeter defense.
And for Obi Toppin, this deal is more than just a paycheck—it’s validation. After years of being undervalued in New York and Indiana, he’s now got the contract, the opportunity, and the championship expectations to match.
Watch out, East. The Bucks just got a lot more dangerous.
