What is Jacob Toppin's NBA draft projection? Exploring 6’9” Kentucky forward's chances to make it into NBA

Kentucky Wildcats senior Jacob Toppin has become the latest name to throw his hat into the 2023 NBA draft. Toppin declared for the draft on Friday and will forgo his remaining eligibility.

The 6-foot-9 forward continued to impress throughout the year for the Wildcats. Toppin's brother, Obi, is currently in the NBA as part of the New York Knicks. There are a lot of similarities between the two players.

Jacob has shown athleticism to be a player who can live above the rim with emphatic dunks. After struggling to generate consistent minutes in the last three seasons, Toppin played 31.5 minutes a game for the Wildcats this season. He showed some intriguing flashes as a defender and will attempt to have a strong predraft process to improve his NBA draft stock.

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Examining Jacob Toppin's NBA draft stock

Kentucky Wildcats forward Jacob Toppin was one of the team's most impressive players throughout this season. Toppin will now look to carry that momentum towards convincing NBA teams that he is worthy of a draft selection.

Toppin projects to be a second-round selection in the 2023 NBA draft. He's taken considerable strides in his game and could intrigue teams with his versatility as a defender.

A sensational athlete for his position, Toppin improved his outside shooting throughout his senior year. He finished averaging 12.4 points, 6.8 rebounds and 2.2 assists. Toppin also went on to shoot 46.3% from the field, including 30.5% from 3-point range, and 66.4% from the free-throw line.

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If teams are convinced that his outside shot can come around on a more consistent level, Toppin could receive interest in the second round.

The 2023 NBA draft is shaping up to have some intriguing depth, featuring players who could be picked over a wide range on draft night.

Toppin's decision to throw his hat into the ring seems like a worthy gamble, especially after a much-improved season with the Kentucky Wildcats. In his last seven games of the year, Toppin averaged 14.4 points, 8.3 rebounds and 2.4 assists while shooting 47.9%, including 33.3% from 3-point range.

Chances are that Toppin could also go undrafted and become a potential two-way candidate for NBA organizations. That might be a blessing, as Toppin would be able to further develop his game in the G League.