Knicks pair RJ Barrett and Obi Toppin get into a screaming match off the bench before New York pulverizes the Cavs to move closer to a playoff spot.
Two Knicks players – RJ Barrett and Obi Toppin – got into a heated argument on the bench in New York during the team’s victory over Cleveland on Friday night.
During a layoff in the third quarter, New York starters Barrett and Tobin engaged in a shouting match and had to part ways.
Cooler Head later prevailed as the Knicks prevailed 130-116 without Julius Randle, thanks to 48 points from Jalen Bronson.
Thibodeau downplayed the conflict between RJ Barrett and Obi Toppin postgame.
“Cameras are everywhere and probably more is going on than people realize,” said Thibodeau. It was the heat of the moment.
Obi Tobin (left) and RJ Barrett (right) had to be separated by New York head coach Tom Thibodeau in the third quarter
dissipated instantly. If there is a flare up, talk to each other. When they went out together, I knew they were fine.
‘And he just moved.’ win the game. When everyone wants to win, sometimes there is a difference of opinion. They just put the team first and that’s what they did.
Sometimes, there is a difference of opinion, but these guys are okay with each other. These things happen.’
Later, in the locker room, Tobin puts his arm around a smiling Barrett. “This is my brother,” said Tobin. “We are ok.”
It was New York’s third win in a row. Right now, the Knicks (45-33) are three games into fifth in the East and five games out of the bullpen.
And it will secure its first playoff appearance since 2021 if Dallas beats Miami on Saturday night.
Obi Tobin (left) and RJ Barrett (right) smoothed things out as the Knicks beat the Cavs on the road
New York can smell the playoffs, as the team is currently the No. 5 seed