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Atlanta Hawks 2026 NBA Draft: Point Guard Options
John Jones-Imagn Images

The Atlanta Hawks’ point guard conversation has long been one of the most important storylines for the franchise, and it will continue to be heading into the 2026 NBA Draft.

2026 NBA Draft: Point Guard Options for the Atlanta Hawks

Much of the attention around the 2026 NBA Draft class focuses on the potential top four selections: BYU wing AJ Dybantsa, Kansas guard Darryn Peterson, Duke forward Cameron Boozer and UNC forward Caleb Wilson. However, Atlanta could still find elite talent slightly further down the board. Specifically, if the New Orleans Pelicans’ or Milwaukee Bucks’ first-round pick (which will be conveyed to the Hawks) lands between picks 5-8, they’ll still be in position to add a dynamic guard.

That possibility matters because the point guard prospects in this range look appealing, as several high-level playmakers could fall in that tier. So, instead of seeing picks 5-8 as a consolation prize, Atlanta could treat that range as an opportunity.

3 Names Stand Out Between Picks 5-8

If the Hawks draft a point guard in the 5-8 range, three names stand out: Houston’s Kingston Flemings, Arkansas’ Darius Acuff Jr., and Louisville’s Mikel Brown Jr.


Dec 20, 2025; Newark, New Jersey, USA; Houston Cougars guard Kingston Flemings (4) sets the play while defended by Arkansas Razorbacks guard Darius Acuff Jr. (5) during the second half at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images

Each offers a different offensive profile that could interest Atlanta’s front office.

Can Kingston Flemings Be Their Long-Term Creator?

Flemings may provide the most intriguing blend of scoring instincts and pace. The Texas native has impressed evaluators with his ability to control tempo while attacking aggressively. His handle allows him to break down defenders in isolation. His passing vision also creates opportunities when defenses collapse.

For a Hawks team that values ball-movement and versatility, Flemings could be a long-term creator. He can operate both on and off the ball. His development trajectory also suggests there’s still room to grow as a decision maker.

Why Darius Acuff Jr. Could Fit

Acuff represents a different archetype among Atlanta’s point guard prospects. One of his best attributes is his ability to take care of the ball. On Jan. 14, Acuff became the first Division I freshman since 2019 to record 13 or more assists with zero turnovers in a game, highlighting his strong decision-making and ball control.

Known for explosive scoring ability and a confident approach, Acuff can generate offense in tight spaces and knock down perimeter shots. He also creates separation with quick bursts off the dribble. That scoring mindset could appeal to teams seeking a guard who can take over stretches of a game.

If the Hawks draft point guards with shot creation as a priority, Acuff may become a serious option.

The Case for Mikel Brown Jr. in the Mid-Lottery

Brown offers one of the most polished skill sets in this group. His court awareness and passing ability stand out immediately. At 6-foot-5, he reads the floor well and processes the game quickly. In the same vein, he consistently makes the right decision with the ball. Sometimes that means pushing the pace. Other times it means slowing the offense in the halfcourt.

Brown has also demonstrated impressive scoring upside. During his time at the University of Louisville, he tied the program’s single-game records with 45 points and 10 three-pointers, showcasing his ability to take over offensively when needed. Because of that balance, Brown may represent the safest projection among Atlanta point guard prospects in this range.

This article first appeared on Last Word On Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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