Kingston Flemings has finally broken out. His long-awaited offensive explosion took place during Wednesday night's home loss to the Miami Heat.
In 28 minutes off the bench, he recorded a career-high 23 points on an impressive 9-12 from the field and 3-5 from deep. He deserved extended run after willing Atlanta back into the game, and he got it. In fact, he closed the game among the starting group.
His spot in the lineup took the place of CJ McCollum's. The veteran guard in his 14th NBA season didn't see the floor once in the final quarter vs. Miami - a calculated decision that nearly resulted in the Hawks stealing their third victory of the season.
Coach Snyder rode the hot hand, something McCollum was okay with
One of the biggest reasons Atlanta quickly brought McCollum back for one more season with the franchise was his veteran presence. Flemings is quickly understanding its impact.
He described postgame what it's meant to his transition to nightly NBA minutes:
“Otherworldly, to be honest,” Flemings said. “Him and Nickeil [Alexander-Walker], I work out with them almost every single day, taking bits and pieces.”
This Atlanta team has a fascinating mix of both veterans and young players in need of guidance. The front office wanted a unique combination of youth and experience. They have it.
In the back-half of last season, the Hawks were one of the most successful teams on both ends of the floor. It resulted in them stealing two games in the first round from the eventual-champion New York Knicks. McCollum led the way in that series, and is now back to lead Atlanta's young guard.
“For CJ [McCollum] to be playing this long, at this high of a level, it’s not easy to do," Flemings said. “The things he’s done, he’s in my ear all the time. Every timeout, when he’s on the bench, just telling me what he sees, offense, defense, helping me in those ways.”
Amidst both excellence and struggle - Flemings knows he can lean on McCollum
He's had a solid start to his rookie season, but struggle is inevitable.
As a rookie point guard - even with as little responsibility he's expected to carry in the immediate - the league doesn't favor him. Atlanta will have to allow him to make mistakes and slowly blossom into the player everyone knows he can be.
Having an outing like Wednesday's stellar performance, every now and then, will do just enough to instill confidence in the idea of him being the lead guard of the future.
For now, McCollum will remain in the starting lineup, but the two eventually swapping roles is undoubtedly part of the bigger picture. Regardless, the two get along well, and it's become crystal clear he couldn't have landed in a better situation for his development.
“It’s just invaluable having players like him on the team. I’m grateful for it.”
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