Nikola Djurisic takes 'first step' in future with Atlanta Hawks

Atlanta Hawks rookie Nikola Djurisic was left off the team’s training camp roster. He remains unsigned, offering a reason for the omission. 

Djurisic is also dealing with a toe injury that will keep him sidelined until November.

Hawks general manager Landry Fields said they are still sorting through their options with the rookie wing. He was not a part of the Hawks’ media day rollout.  But Djurisic’s social media activity could offer a bit of clarity.

“The first step has been made!” Djurisic’s agent, Mizko Raznatovic, posted on IG on September 30. “[Nikola Djurisic] is the new player of the [College Park Skyhawks]!”

Djurisic shared the post, confirming its veracity.

Hawks rookie Nikola Djurisic lands contract with Skyhawks

The exact reasoning for the move was not specified. But it keeps Djurisic in the organization, learning the Hawks system with fluidity among the coaching staffs. Hawks assistant Steve Klei will also serve as the Skyhawks’ head coach.

Fellow assistant Ryan Schmidt served in the same capacity in 2023-24, and the Hawks have stocked the G League with several intriguing prospects.

The Hawks also preserve their own roster spots.

They enter training camp with 20 players under contract, one short of the allotment during this portion of the NBA calendar. That is also the benefit of drafting a player like Djurisic, who is already an established player overseas.

“Still trying to get him healthy,” Fields said on media day. “Looking at a few different options for him. And likely a stash opportunity for us, and I think that's probably where we'll see him go.”

This new development could be an alternative or placeholder.

Regardless, it has been clear that Djurisic is part of the Hawks’ plans in some capacity, even if that won’t be in 2024-25. A 6-foot-7 aggressive playmaker, he has the skill set to be a useful contributor in the future.

Nikola Djurisic fits Hawks’ new ethos

Both Fields and Hawks head coach Quin Snyder repeatedly referred to the Hawks’ newfound length and the versatility that it will unlock for them. Fields also confirmed their view of the 2, 3, and 4 spots as interchangeable pieces.

Djurisic fits with that line of thinking.

He did not shoot the ball well in 2K25 Summer League in his limited exposure, and that was a question about him before the draft.

That he cannot properly work to prove his shot is better than he has shown is among the most unfortunate parts about his injury. But it is not difficult to see why the Hawks swung the trade with the Miami Heat to acquire Djurisic.