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The Oklahoma City Thunder are preparing to move forward without Nikola Topic. After announcing that they exercised Jared McCain's $6.8 million fourth-year option and Thomas Sorber's $5.1 million third-year option, the Thunder opted to decline the $7.5 million team option on Nikola Topic's contract for the 2027-28 season.
As a result, the Serbian guard is set to hit free agency next year.
OKC Thunder Decline Team Option for Nikola Topic
Oklahoma City's decision to pass on Topic's team option stems from the franchise's financial outlook amid an increasingly tight payroll.
It is also worth noting that Topic has yet to play meaningful minutes or get a real opportunity to showcase his talent since being selected with the 12th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft.
Topic missed his entire rookie season due to a partially torn ACL in his left knee. He was later diagnosed with testicular cancer in October of last year and completed chemotherapy in January. He appeared in just 10 games last season and has yet to take the floor this year following back surgery in June.
Despite his undeniable upside, Topic's persistent availability issues prompted the Thunder to make a necessary business decision aimed at preserving their long-term financial flexibility.
Off to a 4-2 start to the season, Oklahoma City has already been heavily depleted by injuries, with Jalen Williams (leg), Cason Wallace (shoulder), and Chet Holmgren (knee) all sidelined for extended periods.
VIDEO Shai lights up the Knicks to extend NBA record as Topic watches from the front row
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