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While parting ways with Topic, the organization confirmed it has exercised the contract options for both Jared McCain and Thomas Sorber. These roster adjustments come as the Thunder look to solidify their core moving forward, leaving the future of the 19-year-old guard uncertain as he navigates a challenging start to his professional career.
A difficult tenure hampered by injury and health setbacks
Topic’s time in Oklahoma City has been defined by a series of unfortunate health obstacles that have severely limited his availability on the court. Since being drafted, he has managed to appear in only 10 total games for the franchise over the past three seasons. His rookie campaign was entirely sidelined by a knee injury sustained prior to his entry into the league, preventing him from making an immediate impact.
The challenges continued into the following season, when a diagnosis of testicular cancer during the preseason forced him to step away from basketball activities. Following a medical procedure in October and a subsequent course of chemotherapy, Topic demonstrated resilience by working his way back to fitness. He eventually made his NBA debut on February 12 of last year, appearing in a brief 10-game stretch before further complications arose.
Current status and future outlook
The decision to decline his option comes as Topic remains sidelined while recovering from back surgery performed this past summer. Currently, there is no established timetable for his return to competitive play. By declining the $7.4 million option, the Thunder have effectively cleared the path for the guard to enter the open market as an unrestricted free agent once the current season concludes.