After a challenging year following an ACL tear, Nikola Topic is making strides in his rehabilitation process, thanks to the guidance of shooting coach Chip Engelland. The 19-year-old guard, previously projected as a top-five pick, has been working diligently behind the scenes while his Oklahoma City Thunder teammates shine on the court. As the Thunder hold the top seed and break records, Topic's development could be crucial in addressing the team's need for a primary ball-handler.

Kenrich Williams, a veteran on the roster, has praised Topic's commitment to his recovery, noting visible changes in his physique as he adds weight and strength. With the Thunder's recent success in mind, there's optimism that Topic's journey mirrors that of Chet Holmgren, who also missed his rookie season but became a key contributor upon return. Anticipation builds as Topic prepares for his first appearance in the 2025 summer league, where he could join fellow lottery picks.

In an intense showdown, the Oklahoma City Thunder overcame the San Antonio Spurs 146-132, marking a season-high in points for the Spurs. The game saw a notable altercation involving Lu Dort, Kenrich Williams, and Julian Champagnie, leading Thunder coach Mark Daigneault to express his frustration with officiating. Despite a strong start from the Spurs, who hit 16 first-half three-pointers, they couldn't maintain their momentum. Daigneault's team exhibited rare retaliation, a change in their typical demeanor, as they addressed their cumulative frustrations. Star player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander remained focused on the game, downplaying the incident as they prepare for their next match against the Brooklyn Nets.

A heated moment unfolded during the Oklahoma City Thunder's convincing 146-132 victory against the San Antonio Spurs, leading to multiple ejections after a physical confrontation. The incident began when Spurs forward Julian Champagnie swung his elbows to create space, inadvertently making contact with Thunder's Kenrich Williams. Williams responded, resulting in a chest-to-chest confrontation that escalated into a larger scuffle involving teammates from both sides.

Fortunately, no punches were thrown and all players emerged unscathed. Officials reviewed the incident, resulting in technical fouls and ejections for Williams, Champagnie, and Luguentz Dort, while Jeremy Sochan received a technical but remained in the game. The NBA's efforts to maintain control and prevent escalations in these situations are evident as they impose strict penalties for even minor altercations during the long season.

A third-quarter skirmish marred the contest between the San Antonio Spurs and Oklahoma City Thunder, leading to a sequence of ejections. The incident ignited when Thunder forward Kenrich Williams clashed with Spurs forward Julian Champagnie after an elbow was thrown during a pass attempt. The confrontation escalated as both players exchanged shoves near the scorer's table, coinciding with a dunk by Spurs' Jeremy Sochan.

Referees stepped in to restore order, resulting in technical fouls and expulsions for Williams, Champagnie, and Thunder guard Lou Dort. Sochan also received a technical foul for his involvement in the fracas. At the time of their ejections, Champagnie had recorded eight points, while Dort contributed nine points and nine rebounds, and Williams had three rebounds and an assist, with the Thunder leading 108-100 as they headed into the final quarter.

CJ McCollum showcased his prowess against the Sacramento Kings, scoring 43 points to lead the New Orleans Pelicans to a nail-biting 140-133 victory. McCollum's impressive shooting, hitting 64% overall and 58.3% from three, solidified his reputation as a 'Kings Killer,' a title he embraces given the Kings' past decision not to draft him. Despite his missed shot at the end of regulation, he rose to the occasion in overtime, ultimately securing the win for his team.

The Kings had their moments, notably finishing with 38 assists, but were unable to clamp down defensively in critical moments. Malik Monk's late-game heroics, including crucial free throws, temporarily kept hope alive for Sacramento. However, DeMar DeRozan's struggles in crunch time and a reliance on isolation plays hindered the Kings' chances. They played well overall, but it wasn't enough against McCollum's brilliance. Luckily for Sacramento, they won't face him again this season.