Despite playing a playoff career-high 31 minutes against the Heat, Obi Toppin was yanked out early in the fourth quarter and never returned, with Tom Thibodeau opting to stick with Josh Hart instead. While Toppin played well, he has yet to earn Thibodeau's trust to close out important games. A veteran NBA scout is pessimistic about Toppin's future with the Knicks, citing the limited role he plays under Thibodeau and the coach's apparent lack of interest in Toppin. However, the scout is still intrigued about Toppin's untapped potential, particularly his athletic ability and improved shooting. The Knicks had reportedly engaged in trade talks surrounding Toppin with the Indiana Pacers last December, with the Pacers intrigued by his rim-running ability to slot in next to center Myles Turner. Toppin is now extension-eligible this summer, but it remains to be seen if he and the Knicks will strike an extension contract soon. As the Knicks enter the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Heat, there are questions about Toppin's future in New York and the trust he has earned from his coach.