The Charlotte Hornets surprised the NBA world by selecting Kon Knueppel with the No. 4 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Knueppel was expected to be selected in the first round, but fourth overall felt a bit high to some. Charlotte clearly believes in the Duke basketball product, however. So, does Knueppel feature an All-Star ceiling? If so, when will he earn his first All-Star selection?
The 20-year-old offers good size, standing 6'7". As a result, versatility could emerge as part of his game down the road. Knueppel's ability to shoot the ball at a high level is probably his best attribute on the floor. In 39 games with Duke, Knueppel shot 47.9 percent from the field, 40.6 percent from beyond the arc and 91.4 percent from the free throw line.
That will play.
He ultimately averaged 14.4 points per game -- a respectable mark given the fact that Cooper Flagg was the team's best player. Knueppel is also a player who understands the game well and is no stranger to making plays for teammates.
Knueppel's three-level scoring ability has potential, but he will need to improve at finishing through traffic around the basket. He's also not a terrific defender by any means. Knueppel's path to becoming a star will be through his offensive game. If he can become an average defender, the Hornets won't complain.
This all leads to the following questions: Will Knueppel become an All-Star and when will he earn his first All-Star selection if so?
Kon Knueppel: All-Star?
Knueppel is a young player. He will likely require a couple of years to completely adjust to the NBA. His former Duke teammate, Cooper Flagg, was selected first overall in the 2025 NBA Draft and seems especially ready for the NBA. Flagg could become a star within his first couple of seasons in the league.
For Knueppel, there may be a longer transition period. The long-range scoring should immediately translate but he will need to adjust to finishing around the basket, defense and more.
Knueppel's scoring potential and understanding of the game of basketball suggest he can become an All-Star level player. As mentioned, though, it may require some time. Perhaps earning an All-Star selection within his first four or five years in the NBA is reasonable.
Our prediction? Kon Knueppel will earn his first All-Star selection in four years -- which will be the 2029-30 NBA season.