'I Was Like... What?' - Former NBA Champ Impressed with Nikola Topić, Compares Him to Jason Kidd

The Oklahoma City Thunder's young guard, drafted last year, was sidelined by an ACL injury, missing the team's championship run.

Nikola Topić, however, has returned to the court in the NBA Summer League, impressing fans with his performances. After three stellar games, Channing Frye praised the Serbian talent.

The Thunder dominated the Summer League, going 3-0. Topić has been the team's star, alongside a strong showing from Iziah Mitchell. But it's Topić's playmaking and defensive tenacity that have earned him headlines and accolades – the latest from analyst Channing Frye.

"I was like, 'What?!'... You know how Jason Kidd would just catch it and go? I haven't seen a 19-year-old play with that confidence and pace. Running the pick-and-roll, one dribble and he's throwing a dime. He had 10 assists, he could have easily had 14," Frye told NBA Analysis, via Sportal.

Topić's Summer League stats are impressive. While his year-long absence occasionally shows, his playmaking has been elite.

He'll undoubtedly fit well in the Thunder's backcourt, contributing on both ends and potentially complementing MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. ESPN's Bobby Marks recently mentioned during the Thunder's game against the Orlando Magic that scouts told him Topić could have been a top-five pick in this year's draft.

Although the 19-year-old was considered a top prospect in the 2024 class, the knee injury pushed him down draft boards. However, his early NBA performances have shown that he's exceptional for his age.

Topić also exudes confidence and isn't shy about displaying it. This was evident in a recent post-Summer League game interview where a reporter asked about his passing ability. "I guess I was born with it, but as I said before – I learned a lot growing up, playing against older guys. My father was there, and there were always more experienced point guards who mentored me. So – I'm saying all that," Topić replied.

After winning the championship, the Thunder are expected to be the team to beat next season.

Players like Topić add depth to Oklahoma's already potent lineup, which now has a Big 3 in full force – all on max contracts after brilliant performances in the 2024/25 season.