The Atlanta Hawks' 2025-26 season ended with a 89-140 loss to the New York Knicks on April 30, 2026, capping a five-game losing streak. As the team looks ahead, three rookies drafted last summer face specific questions that will shape their NBA futures. Kingston Flemings, Zuby Ejiofor, and Henri Veesaar represent a promising core that must develop quickly for a Hawks squad needing a turnaround.
Can Kingston Flemings become the franchise point guard?
Selected 8th overall, Kingston Flemings was widely considered the best point guard in the draft after Darryn Peterson. His freshman year at Houston was exceptional. He led the Cougars in points, assists, steals, and three-point percentage. He even finished second on the team in defensive rebounds, a rare feat for a guard.
His potential is sky-high. The Hawks need him to translate his college dominance to the professional level immediately. Flemings must prove he can run an NBA offense and defend quicker guards. His development is central to the Hawks' long-term plans, especially after a tough season finale. You can track his progress on our stats page.
Will Zuby Ejiofor's all-around game translate?
The Hawks used the 23rd overall pick on St. John's big man Zuby Ejiofor. He brings experience, excellent rebounding, and underrated passing skills to the frontcourt. Ejiofor also established himself as a premier shot-blocker, averaging 2.1 blocks per game in college.
He led his team in points, rebounds, assists, and blocks per game. This shows his capacity to contribute in multiple areas. The question is how quickly he can adjust to the NBA's speed and physicality. His ability to protect the rim and score in the paint could provide the Hawks with much-needed interior presence.
Is Henri Veesaar's shooting for real?
Atlanta's final selection was UNC center Henri Veesaar in the second round. His main attraction is his shooting touch. The seven-footer shot 42.6% from three-point range on decent volume while also protecting the paint.
He needs to get stronger and improve defensively. But the NBA always has room for big men who can stretch the floor at an above-average rate. Veesaar must demonstrate that his college three-point percentage is sustainable against NBA defenses. If he can, he'll carve out a significant role.
The Hawks are in a good spot with this rookie class. In a time where draft picks are valuable, they secured three potential contributors. Their growth is essential for a team that finished the season on a five-game skid. The recent form shows zero wins in the last five outings.
Each rookie has a clear path to playing time if they answer their respective questions. Flemings must command the backcourt. Ejiofor needs to be a versatile two-way big. Veesaar has to prove he's a genuine floor-spacing threat. Their progress will be a major storyline for the Hawks heading into the next season. Fans can follow the team's offseason moves and updated roster roster as they prepare.
