Zvezda Have Found Their New Nikola Kalinic

Crvena Zvezda have proven so far this season that they can adapt to any opponent and win in a variety of ways, with different players stepping up to make decisive contributions each night.

David Kramer delivered against Buducnost, Ognjen Dobric was one of the heroes in the victory over ASVEL, and against Paris, it was young Nikola Djurisic who stepped into the spotlight, showing head coach Ibon Navarro that he can be a vital contributor for the remainder of the campaign.

Djurisic arrived late last season as a marquee signing and a major investment in the club's future. However, it hasn't all been smooth sailing for the former Mega and Atlanta Hawks talent.

A string of injuries, especially one sustained just before the start of the new season, halted Djurisic's momentum and delayed his integration into the lineup. That difficult period now appears to be behind him. With Navarro's growing trust, the 22-year-old Serbian guard looks set to play an increasingly prominent role on the court.

From the opening tip, Zvezda looked to attack Paris via Djurisic on the low post—a familiar strategy reminiscent of how they have long deployed the veteran Serbian international who now serves as Nikola's mentor.

Djurisic strung together impressive plays throughout his 14 minutes on the floor, finishing with 11 points on 5-of-8 shooting from the field, alongside four rebounds and an assist.

He crashed the glass relentlessly, played tenacious defense, and committed smart tactical fouls when needed, showing Navarro that he can be depended upon as a fixture in the rotation.

Many young players have come and gone at Serbia's two basketball giants, but Djurisic looks ready to leave a lasting legacy—perhaps one just as impactful as Nikola Kalinic's.

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