Kingston Flemings is already reminding Hawks why they drafted him

The Atlanta Hawks secured their first preseason victory with a 123-116 road win over the San Antonio Spurs. Eight players scored in double figures, but it was Flemings who led the way with an encouraging all-around performance.

The rookie finished with 15 points, five assists and three steals while shooting 50% from beyond the arc. More importantly, Flemings looked increasingly comfortable operating against NBA competition, showing the offensive confidence that made him an intriguing prospect entering the draft.

For Atlanta, the biggest takeaway wasn't necessarily his scoring production. It was how naturally Flemings appeared to be adjusting to the professional game.

Flemings is showing Hawks more than defensive potential

Flemings made an impression during Atlanta's preseason opener against Memphis with his defensive intensity. He consistently pressured opposing ball handlers and demonstrated the quickness necessary to stay in front of NBA guards.

Against San Antonio, however, Flemings showcased another dimension of his game. He attacked the basket with confidence, moved more fluidly offensively and appeared increasingly comfortable creating opportunities for himself and his teammates.

That development is particularly encouraging because Atlanta already knows what Flemings can offer defensively. His ability to disrupt passing lanes, pressure opponents and generate turnovers gives him a foundation to build upon while his offensive game continues developing.

But if Flemings can consistently complement those defensive contributions with efficient scoring and reliable playmaking, his value becomes considerably greater. His five assists against San Antonio were just as encouraging as his 15 points because they highlighted his potential to contribute without becoming overly focused on scoring.

The Hawks didn't draft Flemings simply to become another defensive specialist. They invested in a young point guard capable of eventually impacting multiple areas of the game.

Flemings' growing confidence could accelerate his development

Expectations for Flemings should remain measured, as adjusting to the NBA requires more than a few promising preseason performances. Preseason performances don't necessarily predict regular-season success, and Atlanta wasn't facing San Antonio's strongest possible competition throughout the game.

Nevertheless, every player competing at this level is a professional, and Flemings deserves credit for taking advantage of his opportunities. His performance demonstrated something that statistics alone cannot fully capture: a young player becoming increasingly comfortable with his surroundings.

That's important for Quin Snyder, who must balance developing Flemings with maintaining a competitive rotation. The more confidently the rookie makes decisions, defends and contributes offensively, the easier it becomes to justify giving him meaningful opportunities.

Flemings still has plenty to prove before establishing himself as a consistent rotation contributor. However, building momentum throughout preseason could provide valuable confidence heading into Atlanta's regular season opener.

The Hawks have every reason to remain patient with their young point guard. But performances like Thursday's victory over San Antonio offer a reminder of why Atlanta believed Flemings was worth investing in.

His development won't happen overnight, but the early signs are becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.

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