Atlanta Hawks 2026-27 player preview: Kingston Flemings

Peachtree Hoops previews rookie point guard Kingston Flemings ahead of the Atlanta Hawks' 2026-27 season. Selected eighth overall in the 2026 NBA Draft via a previously acquired pick from the New Orleans Pelicans, the former Houston Cougar averaged 16.1 points and 5.2 assists per game in college. Following Trae Young's departure, the Hawks need a primary playmaker, and the writer believes Flemings has the leadership and playmaking abilities to eventually serve as the team's long-term floor general.

While Flemings displayed scoring ability in college—including a 42-point freshman record against Texas Tech and shooting 38% from three-point range—the author argues his NBA success will rely on facilitating and defense. Writer joeywalraven suggests that Flemings should focus on setting up scorers like CJ McCollum, Jalen Johnson, and Nickeil Alexander-Walker while providing disruptive perimeter defense.