Overview
Nikola Durisic has played for Mega MIS the last three seasons, but he’s coming off the best year of his career after turning pro at 16. He averaged 13.3 points, 3.7 assists, 3.0 rebounds and 1.1 steals across 28.3 minutes. He also played in 22 appearances — that’s more than the games he logged combined over his previous two seasons. He played in two postseason contests in the ABA Adriatic League in 2022-23, averaging 11.0 points per game. His per-36 stats are promising with averages of 17.0 points, 4.7 assists, 3.8 rebounds and 1.4 steals. Durisic was named the All-Tournament Team in the NIJT in each of the last two seasons, and was also named the NIJT MVP in 2021-22. His talents have been recognized in the Adriatic League, where he was named the league’s top prospect in the 2022-23 campaign.
Analysis
Durisic is big for the shooting guard position, standing at 6-foot-8, but he is more than just size. He handles his frame well and has above-average dribbling skills. He can get past opposing players with his handles and create his own shot, but he is also adept at creating for others. He lives and dies by his scoring, although he has shown improvements in his decision-making and playmaking as well. He can hold his own from a physical perspective, but he’s not the best athlete and might need time to adjust to the intensity and physicality of the NBA. He needs to improve his free throws and three-point shooting, but overall has the makings of being a competent scorer.
Projection
Durisic has been tipped as a potential late first-round pick or early second-round pick. He is raw to be a starter right away and might need some time overseas or in the G League to continue crafting his game. However, the potential is there, and he is promising from both a physical and technical perspective. He figures to be a solid three-and-D wing if he can keep improving his long-range shot.
— Profile by RotoWire