Thunder’s Nikola Topic Faces Mysterious 4-6 Week Hiatus After Unexpected Medical Procedure

Nicola Topic’s journey with the Thunder has been a rollercoaster, to say the least. Taken as the No. 12 pick in the 2024 draft, he didn’t see a single minute last season after tearing his ACL—a heartbreaking setback for any rookie. Yet, he bounced back impressively this summer, reminding everyone just why he was such a coveted lottery pick. His preseason performances only added fuel to the optimism surrounding him. But then, out of left field, the Thunder announced that Topic would be sidelined due to a “testicular procedure,” sidelining him for at least 4-6 weeks. That likely means missing several early-season games, possibly stretching to Thanksgiving. Of course, it stings for Topic and the team—but here’s the silver lining: OKC boasts a deep, versatile roster at guard and wing positions, led by none other than MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. With talents like Cason Wallace, Alex Caruso, and others stepping up—including promising Ajay Mitchell—the Thunder are far from vulnerable. It’s also worth noting that other bench players like Thomas Sorber and Kenrich Williams won’t be hitting the floor at the season’s start due to their own injuries. So, while Topic’s absence is a bummer, the Thunder’s depth means they’re ready to roll regardless. LEARN MORE

Nicola Topic, the Thunder’s No. 12 pick in 2024, missed all of his rookie season with a torn ACL. Then he showed up at Summer League and reminded everyone why he was a lottery pick.

He looked good in the Thunder’s preseason as well.

Now comes news that Topic is out following what the team called a “testicular procedure.” He will be re-evaluated in 4-6 weeks, meaning he is expected to be out for at least the first few weeks of the season and potentially until around Thanksgiving.

While it’s bad news for Topic, it won’t impact the Thunder on the court, OKC is more than deep enough at the guard and wing spots. That starts with MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, but also includes Cason Wallace, Alex Caruso, Aaron Wiggins, Isaiah Joe and Ajay Mitchell (another promising young player deserving of more run).

Two other deep bench players for the Thunder, Thomas Sorber (ACL) and Kenrich Williams (knee surgery), also will miss the start of the season.