Hornets rookie Kon Knueppel impresses with scorching shooting splits originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Charlotte Hornets have opened the 2025–26 campaign on a promising note, holding a 2–1 record through their first three games. Charlotte began the season with a dominant win over the Brooklyn Nets, followed by a narrow loss to the Philadelphia 76ers before bouncing back with a convincing victory against the Washington Wizards on Sunday.
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Across the roster, the Hornets have benefited from several bright spots. Primary contributors LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges have produced as expected, while forward Moussa Diabate has shown encouraging flashes as a rotational big man, including a double-double off the bench. Second-round selections Ryan Kalkbrenner and Sion James have also impressed early on.
Even with those contributions, No. 4 overall pick Kon Knueppel may be the most intriguing storyline of the young season. Knueppel has drawn attention from analysts and fans with his efficient scoring and advanced shooting profile. Through his first three games, he is averaging 15 points per contest and posted a career-high 20 points on Sunday. He currently owns shooting splits of 55 percent from the field and 58 percent from 3-point range, with a 73 percent true shooting percentage. He also leads all rookies in made 3-pointers with 11.
Knueppel has already started games and come off the bench, showcasing versatility and an ability to contribute regardless of role. After finishing 28th in the league in 3-point shooting percentage last season, Charlotte appears to have found a player who fits a clear need while making an immediate impact.
The Hornets will rest Monday before traveling to South Beach to face the Miami Heat on Tuesday.
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