It’s been 23 days since the Atlanta Hawks started their new season, and it took only 14 days for Kingston Flemings to earn the starting point guard role. He’s played in eleven games thus far, and he’s only getting better as the season progresses.
What have we learned the most about Flemings so far?
Kingston’s composure for his age is truly something to behold. The way he can slow the game down and either settle for a mid-range shot or kick it out has been highly beneficial to the Hawks.
His versatility creates a lot of opportunities for his teammates and himself. Ever since he became a starter, he's averaged 10.8 points, 3.8 assists and 2.3 rebounds. It might not seem like much, but those who view the film have witnessed his cerebral decision-making on offense.
It all starts with his passing. Everyone saw the playmaking potential during summer league after he had 27 assists to nine turnovers across eight games. Now, he’s doing the same in the regular season.
At 19 years old, he is lightning quick, and his speed has been an excellent tool for Hawks Head Coach Quin Snyder. Atlanta ranks sixth in fast-break points, and they should rise up the ranks with Kingston in the starting lineup.
His speed and passing have made the rookie an interesting piece moving forward. The drastic increase in three-point shooting volume has yet to become an issue for him. He’s shooting an efficient 42.9% from beyond the arc and 52.1% from the field.
Kingston’s shooting splits indicate a healthy shot diet. He has also proven to be a reliable defender, whether on the ball or in the passing lanes with his steals. The two-way potential was one of the biggest reasons for his selection, and it’s arguably the most important part of his game for the Hawks.
Flemings has the potential to become a two-way star moving forward
We’ve seen what it’s like for this core to have an offense-first point guard. Flemings’ two-way playstyle, though, is better for long-term success.
It’s a ruggedness the Hawks didn’t have at the one during Trae Young’s era unless the four-time All-Star was on the bench. Kingston just has to keep improving, and he might be as good as his predecessor, if not better.
His best performance came against the Miami Heat, where he scored 23 points, dished out five assists and grabbed five rebounds.
Scoring over 20 points on 9-12 shooting against a potential playoff team is a good sign, and Flemings will only get better with more experience. As a rookie, he won’t be perfect as a starter, but it’s clear he doesn’t play like most first-year players.
Add us as a preferred source on Google