Similar to other Eastern Conference teams like the Celtics or the Knicks, the Atlanta Hawks made off with talented players in the 2024 NBA Draft. They obtained great talent given their possession of the first pick, however, the newest Hawks have questions they need to address for the season. Here is a question that each of the rookies on the Atlanta Hawks has to answer during the 2024-25 NBA season.
One Question For Each Atlanta Hawks Rookie
Zaccharie Risacher
Question: Can Risacher immediately contribute to the Hawks?
The Atlanta Hawks unexpectedly obtained the first pick in the 2024 NBA Draft despite low odds. With that first overall pick, the team selected the French wing Zaccharie Risacher. The skilled wing’s specialties are his ability to be a deadly three-point shooter and his defensive versatility. Additionally, Risacher has a good feel for the game and has flashed upside as a playmaker. While Risacher didn’t have the greatest performance at Summer League, he did show off displays of his defensive potential and athleticism.
Given his draft position and skill set, the big question that Risacher has to answer is whether or not he can be an immediate contributor to the Hawks. With Trae Young still on the roster as of this article, the Hawks are still in the playoff hunt. If Risacher can be counted on as a contributor then the effects of the Dejounte Murray trade will be lessened. His 3-and-D skill set should seamlessly fit into any Hawks lineup. Furthermore, his role on the team will be simple enough that there will be lower expectations for him. If he isn’t an immediate contributor, then the year will be mostly a developmental year for him. That will be beneficial in the long run, however, that doesn’t help any postseason aspirations with Young. Regardless, Risacher will get playing time this coming season and a chance to prove why the Hawks picked him.
Nikola Djurisic
Question: Can Djurisic improve defensively?
The Hawks acquired the 43rd overall pick, Nikola Djurisic, in a three-team trade involving the Rockets and Heat. Djurisic is an offensive-minded wing whose talents lie in his ball-handling and scoring. He didn’t play much at Summer League due to injury, but he has impressed scouts overseas with his unique skill set. Djurisic will be re-evaluated in November after his foot injury. He has shown his capabilities as a playmaker and scorer in the international league he played in and has improved every season. While he remains unsigned as of this article, he has shown the talent to be a part of the future for the Hawks.
Without a doubt, the offensive side of the court is the area Djurisic excels in. However, Djurisic’s defense is lackluster compared to his talent on offense. He isn’t the quickest moving laterally, and his effort levels can be inconsistent. So, the big question for Djurisic is whether or not he can improve defensively. Djurisic needs to improve defensively, as it will give him more value as a player. Additionally, it will mean more opportunities out on the court. Even consistently giving 100 percent effort would go a long way for his defense, even with his physical limitations. If he can improve, it will go a long way for Djurisic to get playing time. He likely won’t play much in his rookie year, but improvements defensively will give him an argument for time in year two.
