In the latest mock draft published by Christopher Kline of FanSided.com, the LA Clippers have their wishes granted through the lottery and select Kingston Flemings with the fifth overall pick. This is not the prospect most fans envision in Clippers’ threads, as the names of Caleb Wilson and Darryn Peterson are in higher regard. But if both have disappeared by the time Lawrence Frank is on the clock, Flemings is the obvious choice.
Flemings has done nothing but strengthen his top-five case this season. He’s put on display his scoring, playmaking, composure, and the skill to connect the dots between individual dominance and wins. Hence, unlike most of his draft competitors, the Houston Cougars are still alive in the March Madness tournament.
Flemings also has experience co-existing and excelling in a crowded backcourt. This is what he’ll see on the Clippers, so it’s a good sign that the ability to prosper with others who deserve minutes has already been demonstrated.
Sometimes, taking the best player available isn’t always wise
With the sixth pick in Christopher Kline’s mock draft, the Brooklyn Nets are up, and they select Darius Acuff Jr. from Arkansas. Some see him as arguably the best in the class, and others don’t due to notable question marks. However, one thing is for sure: if Acuff Jr. is available at number five, he is the best player available.
That said, the Clippers have no business picking him, and the reasoning, which correlates to the franchise rostering Darius Garland, is clear as day. Acuff Jr. brings too many concerns defensively, and though pairing him with the 26-year-old two-time All-Star may be a fun watch, LA’s backcourt would be giving up way too many points.
Flemings, at 6'4 "and 190 lbs, is somewhat the opposite. In fact, one of his strengths is how well he defends, and as you could probably guess, this makes him and Garland a match made in heaven.
Fit is the ultimate theme behind the Clippers taking Flemings. On top of that, he’s a phenomenal offensive player, with averages of 16.2 points and 5.2 assists, shooting 47.8% from the field and 38.8% from beyond the arc.
As a freshman, Flemings was honored on the All-Big 12 team, as well as a Big-12 All-Freshman. This only backs up his case as the youngster that’s best for the Clippers in the event the players the front office are dreaming of are unavailable.