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Nikola Jokic mentors OKC's Nikola Topic amid injury recovery

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 23, 2026, 8:01 PM

Last updated Oct 23, 2026

Nikola Jokic mentors OKC's Nikola Topic amid injury recovery

Summary

Nikola Topic of the Oklahoma City Thunder continues his recovery from a back surgery that has sidelined him at the start of the 2026-27 NBA season. His teammate Nikola Jokic has been supportive, sharing a dinner and encouraging words as Topic faces significant health challenges, previously battling testicular cancer following injuries that kept him off the court for extended periods. Jokic acknowledges Topic's talent and the hardships he has endured throughout his young career. Topic participated in warm-ups during the Thunder's 96-84 home opener victory against the Denver Nuggets, indicating progress in his recovery.

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Status Watch

•Nikola Topic is recovering from back surgery and has missed the season's first games.
•Jokic and Topic have a bond as Serbian players on the NBA stage.
•Topic previously battled testicular cancer and missed significant game time due to injuries.
•Thunder won 96-84 against the Nuggets in their home opener.
•Jokic expresses confidence in Topic's abilities and offers personal support.

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