NBA teams sometimes need to limit rookies' minutes to begin their careers. Although a player may have a bright future, they may need to develop more before earning a legitimate impactful role with an NBA team. With Charlotte Hornets' 2025 No. 4 overall pick Kon Knueppel, however, that is not the case. The 20-year-old is clearly ready for a significant role with the Hornets.
Kon Knueppel making the most of his opportunity with Hornets
Through three games (two starts), Knueppel is making the most of his opportunity. Charlotte already believes in him as well, as Knueppel is averaging over 30 minutes per contest. The rookie is averaging 15 points, 4.7 rebounds and 1.3 assists per outing for a 2-1 Hornets squad. Additionally, Knueppel is finding the bottom of the net from the field 55.2 percent of the time and shooting an absurd 57.9 percent from three-point land.
Sure, it has only been three games, but Knueppel looks confident in the NBA. Even the best prospects sometimes struggle to find their rhythm in their rookie seasons, but Knueppel is already displaying the ability to get the job done.
Charlotte most recently defeated the Washington Wizards, earning a 139-113 win. The Hornets are now 2-1 overall. With LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller and Kon Knueppel on the roster, this Hornets team could compete sooner rather than later.
Knueppel has LaMelo Ball's attention
Knueppel has impressed Ball through the first three games of the 2025-26 NBA season, via r/CharlotteHornets on X (formerly Twitter).
"He's a great basketball player," Ball said recently of Knueppel. "He plays defense and offense, he knows all the plays, where to be, what to do. With a player like that, you obviously want him on the floor."
The Hornets still have plenty of room to improve overall without question. Barring a shocking result, this team won't make a deep postseason run this year. Still, there is certainly potential on the roster. Charlotte is building a possible contender. Ball has looked great this year and Knueppel already looks comfortable in the NBA.
It may take a couple of more seasons, but Charlotte could emerge as a true contender soon.
The Hornets will look to continue their strong start to the new season against the Miami Heat on Tuesday night. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 PM EST in what should be a competitive Eastern Conference matchup as Kon Knueppel looks to continue playing at a high level alongside LaMelo Ball.