Some mock drafts project the Spurs’ draft pick in the first round.
SAN ANTONIO — The 2024 NBA Draft is a few weeks away and the health of point guard Nikola Topic is in focus.
Topic was injured during a match. It was a non-contact injury to his left knee during the first match of the AdmiralBet ABA League Final against Partizan Mozzart Bet. It was his second injury to the same knee. He was helped to his feet but returned to the field later.
However, this injury could force teams to take a break. He was projected to be a top-10 pick, but some mock drafts show his stock dropping, while others project the San Antonio Spurs selecting him with one of their first-round picks.
And if it does, the team does its due diligence.
Topic says he hasn’t met with the Spurs regarding workouts but has spoken to the team doctor.
“I spoke with their doctor but nothing else,” he said.
In the EuroLeague with Mega Basket, he averaged 18.4 points, 7.1 assists, one steal and 25.9% from the three-point line in 12 games played during the 2023-24 season. He is a dynamic 6’6″ point guard with incredible passing ability and can pressure the defense in the paint. His defense is mediocre and his shooting ability could use some work.
And if the Spurs select him despite his injury history, he’s confident he can fit in San Antonio or any team that selects him.
“I think I would fit in great with any team, not just San Antonio,” he said. “As I have said many times, whoever chooses me, the approach is the same. I will do my best to accept the role that the coach gives me, and that’s it.”
Topic says he’s focused on rehabbing his injured knee and body and admits he’s not 100 percent heading into the draft.
That could deter teams from selecting him, and it’s unclear whether the Spurs will use their first-round picks to select the 18-year-old point guard.
The good news is that he is young and his recent injury is not as bad as it seems. A sprain was diagnosed.
He checks most of the boxes on the Spurs point guard needs list (big guard, creator, young, pressures at the rim), but is the risk worth the reward?
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