Kingston Flemings
The Atlanta Hawks selected Kingston Flemings with the No. 7 pick in the NBA Draft. In four Summer League appearances, all of which he started, Flemings has shot 14-for-44 and handed out six turnovers in his latest game. Offensively, the production hasn’t matched the expectations set by his draft position. However, he has displayed defensive ability and has generally taken care of the ball, suggesting there is still time for the offensive game to come around as Summer League continues.
Drake Powell
Drake Powell is a second-year guard for the Brooklyn Nets, selected 22nd overall in last year’s draft. Powell has started four of Brooklyn’s five Summer League games, averaging around 22 minutes per game. He has endured a rough shooting stretch, going 1-for-28 from the field and 0-for-14 from three-point range across those starts. He also hasn’t made a strong impact on defense or on the glass. If the trend continues, Powell could face a challenging Summer League run.
Alex Karaban
Alex Karaban spent four years at UConn before being chosen late in the first round by the Kings. In two Las Vegas Summer League games, Karaban has started and averaged about 23 minutes per game. He has struggled to score, recording zero points in one game and three in another, and over the two contests he has totaled four rebounds and four turnovers. While he wasn’t projected as a superstar, Karaban was viewed as a plausible first-round talent. With several second-round picks showing better production early, his performance so far has raised questions about the value of his selection.
Overall, the early portion of Summer League has highlighted a mix of players meeting expectations and others facing difficulties adjusting to the pace and scrutiny of pro basketball. As the summer progresses, these players will have opportunities to adjust, refine their games, and prove their potential at the NBA level.
