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Hornets Rookie Kon Knueppel Drops 32 in Milwaukee as ROY Buzz Builds

High-profile endorsements have intensified Rookie of the Year chatter around the efficient Duke wing.

Overview

  • Knueppel scored 32 points with three rebounds, three assists and three steals on 12-of-20 shooting in a 147-134 overtime loss to the Bucks, dropping Charlotte to 4-8.
  • Through the early season he is averaging roughly 16.6 points and 6.4 rebounds while hitting 39.8% from three.
  • Charlotte has leaned on the rookie for offense during stretches without LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller, expanding his minutes and usage.
  • Bill Simmons called him a "stealth Rookie of the Year" candidate and even speculated he could make the 2028 U.S. Olympic team, while ESPN’s Tim Legler praised his pro-ready feel and rising ceiling.
  • During the Milwaukee trip, Knueppel hosted Hornets teammates for dinner at his mother’s home, underscoring his hometown ties.