Nickeil Alexander-Walker, the presumed sixth man for the Atlanta Hawks, was unexpectedly named the starting point guard after Trae Young sprained his MCL just five games into the season. Alexander-Walker had never been a consistent starter or on-ball creator before, so fans braced for a tumble down the standings with their star guard out.
But against all odds, the crown jewel of the Hawks’ busy offseason led a 13-8 push without Young. Alexander-Walker split lead playmaking duties in halfcourt possessions with Jalen Johnson and, to a lesser extent, Dyson Daniels. His unique frame and twitchy movement help him effortlessly glide to the rim for easy looks, not unlike his cousin Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.