By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Serbian guard Nikola Topic returned to the NBA court on Friday night, moving past a string of medical hurdles that have shadowed him since the Oklahoma City Thunder drafted him 12th overall in 2024. While his side lost to the Los Angeles Clippers after a late rally at the Intuit Dome, 21-year-old Topic made a solid mark in his 2026–27 Regular Season debut.
The Novi Sad native spent much of his NBA career recovering from a partially torn left ACL, chemotherapy for testicular cancer, and recent back surgery. Before tipoff, head coach Mark Daigneault credited the point guard for handling those obstacles with ‘unbelievable resiliency and grace’. Still, he wanted to shift the conversation back to basketball after watching Topic ramp up during two G League appearances.
“I think he’s a really good player,” mentioned the 41-year-old play-caller in his pregame press conference. “Amidst all of this other stuff that has put a focus on his character as a person and a worker, the guy can really play. He’s got a great sense for the game. He’s got a high IQ. He gets guys shots. Defensively, he’s got size and anticipation skills.”
Subbing in with 7:03 left in the first quarter, Topic immediately showed those instincts. His jumper missed the mark, finishing scoreless on 0-for-4 shooting, yet he contributed across 15 minutes with four rebounds, three assists, and two steals. He jumped passing lanes and hit the floor for loose balls.
Building stamina remains his primary focus, though the clock is ticking on his contract. Oklahoma City recently declined his fourth-year team option, leaving Topic to prove his value on the floor this season as he fights for his next NBA deal.
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