The Atlanta Hawks are positioned to secure a top-10 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, setting the stage to find an ideal Trae Young replacement prospect as their star point guard era shifts. Following a key trade with the New Orleans Pelicans last summer, the franchise is ready to draft a promising freshman who may soon redefine the team’s future backcourt.
After reshaping their roster, the Hawks’ front office, led by Onsi Saleh, has expressed clear intentions to use their upcoming pick to complement Jalen Johnson with a true co-star. Though the lottery outcome might place their selection outside the top five, the strength and depth of the 2026 draft class provide several viable candidates who could contribute immediately and grow into leadership roles.
Houston’s Kingston Flemings: A Young Guard with Star Potential
Kingston Flemings, the talented 19-year-old freshman from the Houston Cougars, stands out as a top candidate to replace Trae Young. Hailing from San Antonio, Flemings has impressed with consistent scoring and a tenacious defensive mentality under coach Kelvin Sampson. Averaging 16.6 points, 3.7 rebounds, 5.3 assists, and 1.7 steals, he is one of the NCAA’s top offensive weapons.
What distinguishes Flemings is not just his scoring but his high basketball IQ and shooting efficiency. Through much of the season, he has been a central figure in Houston’s potent offense, converting nearly 50% of his shots while shooting 38% beyond the arc and 84% from the free-throw line. His 42-point explosion against Texas Tech, including 15 made shots, has earned him a place in nearly all mock drafts’ top five.
If the Hawks select Flemings, his combination of scoring ability and defensive grit could immediately bolster their backcourt with a versatile, well-rounded guard capable of playing at an elite level.
Mikel Brown Jr. of Louisville: A Resilient Scorer with Proven Skill
Mikel Brown Jr., representing the Louisville Cardinals, has demonstrated remarkable resilience and scoring prowess, making him another attractive option as the Hawks’ prospective point guard. Despite injury setbacks that temporarily lowered his draft stock, Brown Jr. has reclaimed attention with standout performances, including a 45-point game that tied a historic school record previously set by Wes Unseld.
Brown’s journey is unique; unlike many peers, he has competed internationally since his early teens, winning two FIBA Gold Medals and showcasing his talent on a global stage. This experience has translated into consistent high scoring back at Louisville, where he has netted 25-plus points multiple times this season. His ability to shoot deep, including draining 10 three-pointers in a single contest, marks him as a lethal offensive threat.
With his health now stabilized, Brown Jr. is projected as a top-8 pick, increasing the possibility he could fill the Hawks’ point guard vacancy with his strong scoring and experience.
Darius Acuff Jr. of Arkansas: A Powerfully Built Playmaker
The Arkansas Razorbacks’ Darius Acuff Jr. rounds out the top trio of point guard prospects for the Hawks to consider. Known for his physicality and offensive versatility, the 19-year-old recently delivered a career-high 49 points, showcasing the work ethic and tenacity that make him NBA-ready despite being the smallest in stature among the three candidates.
Standing 6’3” and weighing 190 pounds, Acuff Jr. leverages his strong frame to break down defenses, consistently finishing with either hand and displaying a reliable shot from all levels. His leadership as a playmaker is evident, with an average of 6.3 assists per game under coach John Calipari, including numerous double-digit assist outings against formidable opponents.
Unlike some peers, Acuff Jr. excels in ball control and boasts better three-point shooting percentages than Kingston Flemings, offering the Hawks a balanced and reliable guard who aligns with their evolving pass-first style.
Future Outlook: Weighing the Hawks’ Best Option in the Draft
The 2026 draft class offers the Hawks a rare opportunity to secure a cornerstone player who can step into Trae Young’s shoes while complementing Jalen Johnson’s development. Kingston Flemings, Mikel Brown Jr., and Darius Acuff Jr. each bring unique skills and potential, ranging from scoring bursts to playmaking and defensive tenacity.
With veterans like Keaton Wallace falling out of the rotation due to declining confidence and performance, the Hawks must prioritize selecting a guard capable of delivering consistent and reliable minutes. Brown Jr. guarantees dependable point guard play, Flemings provides scoring and defensive versatility, and Acuff Jr. offers strength and dynamic playmaking. The onus now lies with the Hawks’ management to identify which player best fits their championship aspirations as the 2026 NBA Draft approaches.
Following the anticipated new league rules targeting tanking and increasing the competitiveness of the lottery, Atlanta’s front office faces urgency and intense pressure to capitalize on this draft’s depth. Success in June’s selection could initiate a new chapter for the Hawks and help stabilize the backcourt long-term.
