One of the highlights of the 2024 NBA Draft is the rise of international prospects, which now dominate the landscape as opposed to the handful who made their way to the NBA in prior years. The league has started to adopt a more global approach when looking at talent and that has led to this rise. One of those prospects is Nikola Topic, who’s first name will immediately create some buzz. Here’s how he stacks up heading into the draft.
Nikola Topic Draft Profile
Topic played in Serbia and was a flashy guard, showcasing his athleticism and passing skills against some of Europe’s top teams. He really excelled as a pick-and-roll guard, which is likely where he’ll be cast in the NBA. There were some questions about whether he’d make the jump to the NBA this year as opposed to staying in Europe longer but he’s decided to try that switch now.
Strengths
Topic has great handles and can orchestrate an offense, which is impressive given his age. Even though his three-point shot isn’t quite as good as it should be, his free-throw percentage is excellent and suggests he’ll figure out the perimeter game. His pick-and-roll skills are second to none and he can pass with the best of them too.
Weaknesses
Defense has been a challenge for Topic, especially since he’s not supremely athletic. He’s a bit of a funky shooter too, so there’s a chance he’ll have to change his approach before seeing improvement there. There’s also the likelihood of him trying to do too much offensively when it comes to making crazy passes, something that is less successful in the NBA than in Europe. Mainly, his defensive upside is limited and he will be a liability there for at least a couple seasons.
Player comparison: Zach LaVine
There will be many who remember LaVine as simply a high-flying dunker in college. However, the guard has evolved into a creative playmaker who can run an offense. Topic fits the mold of what LaVine has become rather than what he came into the league as. I could see Topic going down that path, although there’s also the chance he flames out like Mario Hezonja.