Nikola Topic Makes 2026-27 Thunder Debut

Nikola Topic returned to the Oklahoma City Thunder lineup for his 2026–27 debut Friday after missing the season’s first dozen games while recovering from back surgery. The 21-year-old guard, whose career has also been interrupted by an ACL tear and testicular cancer treatment, recorded four rebounds, three assists and two steals in 15 minutes, though he went scoreless on 0-for-4 shooting. Oklahoma City lost to the Los Angeles Clippers, 113–112, extending its skid to three games as injuries have left the team short-handed. Topic’s immediate focus is rebuilding his conditioning and showing he can contribute, with his future in Oklahoma City uncertain after the team declined his fourth-year option.