# Obi Toppin's Game Shows Pacers' Potential

> Obi Toppin's 20-point performance helps Indiana Pacers secure first win.
- Title: Obi Toppin's Game Shows Pacers' Potential | Shortify
- Summary: Obi Toppin's 20-point performance helps Indiana Pacers secure first win. Obi Toppin scored 20 points to help Indiana Pacers win their first game.
- Keywords: indiana pacers, obi toppin, new orleans pelicans, carlisle, nba, sixth man of the year, basketball, sports, Obi, Toppin's, Game, Shows
- Source: Indiana Pacers On SI — https://si.com/nba/pacers/onsi/opening-pacers-win-shows-how-obi-toppin-can-be-a-difference-maker-01m5gwym7k2f
- Published: 2026-10-22T05:23:18+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: indiana pacers, obi toppin, new orleans pelicans, carlisle, nba, sixth man of the year, basketball, sports
## Pacers win first road game
Indiana Pacers beat New Orleans Pelicans 123-120 in their season opener.
## Toppin's bench impact
Obi Toppin played key role despite starters Aaron Nesmith and T.J. McConnell sidelined.
## Lineup struggles
Coach Carlisle's initial lineup with Larry Nance Jr. struggled with -133.3 net rating.
## Toppin's second lineup
Toppin and Jarace Walker improved to -80 net rating after 5 minutes and 14 seconds.
## Toppin's versatility
Toppin played power forward, center, and small forward throughout the game.
## Toppin's shooting
Toppin made 4 of 9 three-point attempts for 20 points in 24 minutes.
## Toppin's potential
Toppin is a serious contender for Sixth Man of the Year with elite offensive skills.
## Team strategy
Indiana relies on Toppin's experience to win games early in the season.
## Toppin's role
Toppin will be key for Pacers as they integrate new players into their system.
## Key takeaway

Obi Toppin scored 20 points to help Indiana Pacers win their first game.