By DJ Armstead
Nikola Topic wrapped up his third G League appearance with the Oklahoma City Blue, finishing with 18 points, 8 assists, and 3 rebounds. The 6-foot-6 point guard from Serbia continued to show why the Thunder are excited about his long-term development.
“I thought he battled every minute he was in the game,” Blue head coach Daniel Dixon said. “I thought we were very connected when he was out there. He got us really good shots offensively and competed defensively.”
Topic showcased his unique blend of pace, craft, basketball IQ, and scoring ability. He was difficult to contain in transition and comfortable operating in the half court as a primary creator.
While there are areas for growth, particularly on-ball defense and adjusting to NBA-level physicality and athleticism, Topic’s size and feel as a playmaker give him a legitimate pathway to contributing at the next level.
Oklahoma City’s guard rotation is currently crowded, but players with Topic’s processing speed and positional size tend to find opportunities. Whether that comes later this season or next, his development is trending in the right direction.
