Nikola Topić recalled to Oklahoma City Thunder roster ahead of Clippers matchup

Nikola Topić is returning to the Oklahoma City Thunder roster from the G League to compete for playing time in an upcoming game against the Los Angeles Clippers. The game is scheduled to take place on Saturday at 04:30 Serbian time. According to journalist Brandon Rahbar, Nikola Topić is available to play tonight against the Clippers. This move follows a recent period of activity in the G League, where Nikola Topić played two games and averaged 9 points, 1 rebound, and 2 assists per game.

Health and recovery challenges

The return to the Oklahoma City Thunder roster follows a challenging period for the Serbian basketball player. Nikola Topić missed the first 12 games of the 2026/27 season due to injuries. According to one source, Nikola Topić underwent back surgery in June. This follows a previous injury setback during his debut season, when he missed the entire season due to a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. Additionally, Nikola Topić was diagnosed with testicular cancer and underwent several months of treatment, which included chemotherapy.

Before joining the Oklahoma City Thunder, Nikola Topić began his career at Red Star Belgrade and was later loaned to Mega. He was selected as the 12th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. His last appearance in the NBA occurred on May 29, during a 118:91 loss to San Antonio in the Western Conference Finals.

Team standing and outlook

The Oklahoma City Thunder, led by head coach Mark Daigneault, currently hold an 8-4 record. This record places the team 7th in the Western Conference. The team is coming off two consecutive losses against Portland. While Nikola Topić is returning to the roster, the Oklahoma City Thunder did not exercise their team option to extend the contract of Nikola Topić for the 2027/28 season.

The upcoming matchup against the Los Angeles Clippers represents an opportunity for Nikola Topić to reintegrate into the rotation. After missing significant time this season due to health concerns, his presence on the roster provides additional depth for the Oklahoma City Thunder as they navigate the Western Conference standings.

Glossary

• Red Star Belgrade — Red Star Belgrade is one of Serbia's two biggest and most successful football clubs. The club won the UEFA Champions League (European Cup) in 1991.
• G League — The NBA G League is an avenue for high school, college, and international prospects to be drafted into the NBA. It was previously known as the NBA Development League (NBA D-League).
• NBA Draft — The NBA Draft is a process used to select players for the NBA. For example, players can be selected with specific picks during the draft.