The Oklahoma City Thunder announced Saturday that Nikola Topic, their No. 12 pick from the 2024 NBA draft, has been assigned to the G League. This move comes after Topic has missed the entire 2026-27 regular season so far, recovering from back surgery he underwent in June 2026. It’s a clear step towards getting him back on the court, but man, what a road it’s been for the kid.
More Than Just A Missed Season
This isn’t just about missing the start of this year. Topic, only 21, has had an absolutely brutal run with injuries and illness since he entered the league. He missed his *entire* 2024-25 season due to a torn ACL. Then, in 2025-26, he was limited to just 10 games after being diagnosed with testicular cancer in October 2025. He bravely beat that, returning right before the 2026 NBA All-Star break, only to then need this back surgery last offseason. They expected him back by training camp, but it clearly hasn’t gone to plan, as he’s already sat out over 10 games this season. Talk about a tough break, or, well, several tough breaks.
Contract Year, Big Expectations
Now, this G League assignment isn’t just about knocking off rust from the back surgery. Topic is playing out a contract year, and the stakes are super high, especially after his 2027-28 team option was declined. This kid was the No. 12 pick! The hope is he can finally log some serious NBA minutes after this stint, but first, he’s gotta prove it with the OKC Blue. He’s familiar with the G League staff, having spent time there last season during his chemotherapy recovery. He’s expected to suit up for the Blue’s next game against the Osceola Magic on Sunday, November 8. This is his chance to show everyone he can stay healthy, put up big numbers, and get his career back on track.
All eyes will be on him Sunday, November 8, when he’s expected to hit the court for the OKC Blue against the Osceola Magic. This isn’t just a recovery game, this is Topic fighting for his NBA future, and it’s going to be a crucial test for the young No. 12 pick.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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