After a standout rookie year, the versatile forward must sharpen his perimeter defense and three-point consistency to anchor Phoenix’s rotation and fuel a deep postseason run.
Phoenix Suns F Rasheer Fleming is undoubtedly a key piece when it comes to the trajectory of the team in the season ahead.
The Suns are coming off of a 45-win effort during the 2025-26 campaign, with Fleming playing a key role in Phoenix securing regular season victories behind stout defense and timely off-ball shooting.
Follow key subjects following Fleming in the season ahead below, including what to expect from the second-year forward.
What are Reasonable Expectations for Fleming This Season?
The statistical profile of the Saint Joseph's product was relatively modest in his rookie season, although the impact extended beyond this.
There was a reasonable chance that Fleming would become a starting player as the offseason came into fold, but the acquisition of forward Miles Bridges halted these hopes.
Ultimately, the expectations for Fleming should remain somewhat lofty. The 6'9" forward should see his statistical profile improve, while also playing a jack-of-all-trades role that aids in lessening the loss of center Mark Williams.
Areas of Improvement for Fleming
There are two key areas in which Fleming must hone in on to become the player that fans/the organization hope he can be.
These areas are clear - he must become a more consistent three-point marksmen, as well as growing as a perimeter defender.
As far as the latter goes, Fleming is already an exceptional interior defender. He flashed moments of brilliance on the perimeter as well, but there were too many instances of the talented forward getting blown by when guarding on-ball. More experience, discipline, and utilizing his physical traits to a greater extent should remedy this concern.
As far as shooting consistency goes, Fleming is already flashing a great deal of potential as a floor-spacer, but hasn't quite mastered the art of taking advantage of corner/above the break looks. This should improve with more repetition, a greater sense of confidence, and players such as Devin Booker setting him up for clean looks on a regular basis.
Where is Fleming's Ideal Spot in League?
The lineup flexibility that owning a 6'9", 240 pound frame brings to a coaching staff is incredible.
Head coach Jordan Ott and staff now must figure out what to do with Fleming lineup-wise, as he has the ability to play the 2-4, as well as possibly the small-ball five in short spurts. While he has this ability, the ideal conclusion will be to settle on one particular spot that keeps the wing most comfortable in various situations.
Only time will tell if Fleming breaks out further and becomes the player the Suns' organization hopes he will, but there's little doubt that the early results are encouraging.
