Kon Knueppel: The NBA Rookie That Nobody Is Talking About

Kon Knueppel has had a very impressive start for a rookie drafted by the Hornets. But it has been overshadowed by Cooper Flagg’s struggles and VJ Edgecombe’s start. The fact that he plays in Charlotte has also led to him flying under the radar.

Kon Knueppel Has Already Scored 24 Points

In a game against the Jazz, the Duke rookie showed the NBA his true potential, going 9-of-17. He also showed off his 3-point skill, going an impressive 4-of-9. Knueppel played like an All-Star against the Jazz, and it wasn’t the first time Knueppel played at that level.

Knueppel Dominated the Wizards

His 20-point game came against the Wizards. He shot 7-of-12 from the field and 5-of-9 from deep. The Hornets won the game 139-113. The Hornets get better when Knueppel plays well.

Knueppel Has Not Been Perfect

He’s had some stinkers as well, such as back-to-back five-point games against two of the league’s better defenses in the Orlando Magic and Minnesota Timberwolves. Also, his playmaking needs serious work. It’s only a few games, sure, but his career high in assists is five, and with three of his only eight games played so far, he’s only had a single assist. He has room to improve in that department.

The Hornets need someone to pass the ball that isn’t LaMelo Ball if they really want to make the playoffs. Although to give Knueppel more praise, his defense has been great for a rookie.

Comparing Him To Other Rookies

As for PPG (points per game), while VJ Edgecombe’s historic start still is well away from Knueppel, that’s part of the reason he’s been so underrated. He didn’t debut with a historic 34-point game like Edgecombe did.

He has the third-most PPG out of all rookies, beating out hyped-up college teammate Cooper Flagg. He has struggled with Mavericks due to Dallas trying to play him in a Luka Doncic-type role.

Knueppel can make the NBA All-Rookie Team if he can keep up his level of play. Not only did he put up 20 points again, but he also earned his first career double-double. He also got 12 rebounds, showing his willingness and potential to use his size, strength, and aggressive mentality to help out on the boards.

If he continues doing that, along with his incredible play-finishing ability, he can be used anywhere on the court. He can be an All-Star and the 2nd or 3rd option on a title-winning team one day.