Kon Knueppel
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Charlotte Hornets' Kon Knueppel in a recent game against the Oklahoma City Thunder
With the Charlotte Hornets back in action on Monday night, the focus extended beyond the final score as the team provided another update on injured rookie standout Kon Knueppel.
The game marked Charlotte’s first since the 20-year-old was sidelined with a right ankle injury late last week.
Coming off two consecutive wins, including Friday’s impressive 120-105 road victory over the Orlando Magic, the contest in which Knueppel suffered the injury, the Hornets were unable to carry that momentum forward, falling 123-113 to the Milwaukee Bucks.
Brandon Miller led Charlotte with 31 points, while LaMelo Ball added 26 points and seven assists. Still, the Hornets clearly felt Knueppel’s absence. His scoring and secondary playmaking have quickly become central to Charlotte’s offensive identity, showing just how rapidly the rookie has emerged as one of the team’s most impactful players, well ahead of preseason expectations.
Charlotte Hornets Injury Report: Kon Knueppel
X-rays taken immediately following Knueppel’s injury revealed no structural damage, but the Hornets have continued to take a cautious, day to day approach. His recovery timeline remains uncertain as the organization prioritizes avoiding setbacks that could disrupt an otherwise standout rookie season.
However, comments from Hornets head coach Charles Lee prior to Monday’s game suggested the fourth overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft is progressing positively.
“Kon, he is attacking his rehab plan like I would expect Kon to attack his rehab plan, and I think that everyday he sees a bit of improvement,” Lee told reporters. “I think that the goal from our coaching staff, from our performance staff, is just to take the approach like we would with anybody that’s hurt.”
“Just a daily evaluation of where he is and where his symptoms are. I would say today that he made good progress, and we’ll see how he shows up tomorrow.”
While the injury has temporarily sidelined Knueppel, Lee’s update offered cautious optimism that he has avoided anything serious, while reinforcing that the Hornets will not rush him back into the lineup.
Knueppel Spotted Moving Freely Over the Weekend
Additional optimism emerged over the weekend when Knueppel traveled to Myrtle Beach to watch his three brothers compete in the annual Beach Ball Classic high school basketball tournament.
Observers noted that he appeared to be walking normally without assistance, a reassuring sign as daily evaluations continue.
Through 31 games this season, Knueppel is averaging 19.3 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.5 assists while shooting 42.8% from three point range. His 597 total points trail only Cooper Flagg among NBA rookies, further highlighting his immediate impact.
Charlotte’s medical staff will continue to monitor Knueppel’s response as his activity level increases before determining when he may return to game action. With the Hornets prioritizing long-term development over short-term results, any decision is expected to be handled cautiously.
The organization remains aware of Knueppel’s importance to both its present and future. This measured approach reflects a long-term mindset focused on preserving his impressive rookie campaign rather than risking unnecessary setbacks.
For now, Knueppel’s steady progress offers encouragement as Charlotte looks to maintain momentum while patiently awaiting his return.