2025 Jun 15, 11:15
Carmelo Anthony, former player for the New York Knicks, expressed his desire for the team to select Tyrese Haliburton in the 2020 NBA Draft. Although Anthony had not played for the Knicks in three seasons, he believed Haliburton had great potential. Ultimately, the Knicks chose Obi Toppin at No. 8, while the Sacramento Kings selected Haliburton four picks later
Haliburton went on to become an All-Star guard and one of Anthony's favorite players to watch. During the first episode of Anthony's new podcast, "7PM in Brooklyn," he discussed his admiration for Haliburton and his attempts to persuade the Knicks to draft him. Anthony's co-host, The Kid Mero, also expressed his support for the Knicks selecting Haliburton. Anthony praised Haliburton, comparing him to other NBA stars such as Jayson Tatum, Kevin Durant, Anthony Edwards, Malik Monk, and De'Aaron Fox. He described them as players who "go get it." When the Knicks initially selected Toppin in the 2020 draft, it was seen as a potential reunion, as Toppin grew up in Brooklyn. He had also won the National Player of the Year award that season with Dayton, making him highly sought after
Knicks president Leon Rose expressed excitement about Toppin's athleticism and dynamic playing style. However, Toppin did not become a regular starter during his three seasons with the Knicks. In July, he was traded to the Indiana Pacers for two second-round picks, becoming Haliburton's teammate after Haliburton was dealt to Indiana in February 2022. Haliburton had an impressive season, playing 56 games before signing a max contract extension with the Pacers worth $160 million over five years.