Rasheer Fleming is ready to stake his claim in Phoenix by maximizing defensive impact first, then letting the offense come. The 6-foot-8 wing/forward emphasizes slowing the game to his pace and using length to disrupt on-ball tasks, a nod to an NBA-ready defensive toolkit. Open runs against Devin Booker sharpen the test, while summer-league reps in Las Vegas showed a composure that fits a guard-turned-frontcourt contributor. Coaching plans under Jordan Ott stress possessions gained through steals, boards, and transition opportunities, aligning with Fleming’s multi-level scoring potential once comfort on defense is established.

Fleming’s path hinges on defensive work and high-IQ playmaking: the Suns see him as a defender who can guard multiple positions, then grow offensively as confidence and reps accumulate. His summer league numbers—near 50% shooting, strong rebounding and a few steals—mirror a player who can earn early minutes by doing the dirty work. Teammate ties, including fellow rookie Khaman Maluach, hint at a young, Klutch-backed group that values versatility, pace control, and a defense-first identity as the season opens against a challenging schedule.

Beyond on-court fit, Fleming’s idolization of LeBron and Durant signals aspirational ceiling and durability benchmarks. The piece nods to Fleming guarding Booker in open runs, a microcosm of the battle he expects in real NBA minutes. With Ott’s emphasis on generating possessions and his own pace discipline, Fleming could carve a niche as a defensive table-setter early, then expand offensively as he matures within the Suns’ system.