The Oklahoma City Thunder announced that guard Nikola Topic recently underwent a minimally invasive lumbar microdiscectomy procedure.
Despite the setback, the organization expects the young guard to be fully recovered and available by the start of training camp ahead of next season.
The surgery marks another challenge in what has been a difficult stretch for Topic since entering the NBA.
The talented point guard missed his entire rookie season while recovering from a torn ACL suffered before the 2024 NBA Draft, delaying his professional debut.
Earlier this season, Topic also faced a significant health scare when he was diagnosed with testicular cancer.
Fortunately, the condition was detected in its early stages, allowing him to receive treatment and continue working toward a return to full basketball activities.
Although he has seen limited action at the NBA level, Topic showed considerable promise during his time in the G League while working his way back.
Across 13 appearances, the 6-foot-6 floor general averaged 18.4 points, 7.8 assists, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.3 steals in 28 minutes per game.
Nikola Topic To Be Ready For Training Camp Following Back Procedure https://t.co/3d1kbiOwfc
— RealGM (@RealGM) June 14, 2026
