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14h ago

Thunder Exercise 2026–27 Options on Cason Wallace and Nikola Topić

The decision reinforces Oklahoma City's youth-first model, with Topić slated for a November medical re-evaluation.

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Oct 17, 2025; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Cason Wallace (22) dribbles down the court as Denver Nuggets guard/forward Tim Hardaway Jr. (10) defends during the second half at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • Oklahoma City announced it picked up Cason Wallace’s fourth-year option and Nikola Topić’s third-year option for the 2026–27 season.
  • Wallace, the 2023 No. 10 pick, has established a 3-and-D role and earned All-Rookie second-team honors, boosting his minutes on a deep rotation.
  • Topić, the 2024 No. 12 pick, has yet to debut after a partially torn left ACL and an Oct. 6 surgical procedure, with re-evaluation scheduled between Nov. 3–17.
  • The routine first‑round team options extend roster control on two young guards in line with general manager Sam Presti’s development strategy.
  • The defending champions open the 2025–26 season at home against the Houston Rockets on Oct. 21, which doubles as ring night.