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Tdd Podcast Episode 318: Geisinger Talks Knueppel, Sion James, and Jordan Smith, Jr.

TheDevilsDen.com Podcast returns with another jam-packed episode, and this one has plenty of crossover appeal for both Duke fans and NBA watchers. Hosts Josh, Dustin, and Raul are joined by a familiar voice in the hoops world—Brian Geisinger, writer for 247Sports and cohost of the Buzz Beat Podcast—to dissect the Charlotte Hornets' draft and provide an early scouting report on one of Duke's biggest recruiting targets.

Hornets Draft: A Blue Devil Flavor

Charlotte added not one but two former Blue Devils to its roster this summer, selecting Kon Knueppel and Sion James. The episode dives deep into what each player brings to the Hornets and how they might carve out roles in a crowded rotation.

*Summer League dominance: Knueppel wasted no time making an impact, leading Charlotte to its first-ever Summer League Championship. The crew debates whether his all-around play is being fully appreciated by national media outlets who may be underestimating just how complete his game really is.

*Fit in the backcourt: With LaMelo Ball, Terry Rozier, and other guards already in the mix, Knueppel faces stiff competition for minutes. The panel explores whether his versatility and playmaking instincts could make him a connector piece rather than just another scorer.

*Playmaking without a lob threat: A subtle but important point—Knueppel is at his best creating for others, but Charlotte currently lacks a true lob partner. How will that impact his role?

*Sion James' next step: James, meanwhile, enters a roster where defense and versatility are valued. The question is whether he can consistently assert himself offensively. Geisinger and the hosts break down how aggression could determine whether James sticks in the rotation long-term.

Recruiting Spotlight: Jordan Smith Jr.

From the pros to the prep ranks, the podcast then shifts focus to Jordan Smith Jr., the No. 2 prospect in the 2026 class and one of Duke's most tantalizing targets. The conversation covers everything Duke fans want to know:

*Why he's ranked so high: Is the No. 2 slot justified? The panel makes the case for his blend of size, athleticism, and skill.

*Offensive role: Is Smith Jr. at his best creating with the ball in his hands, or does he project more effectively off the ball in Duke's system?

*Potential pairing with Cayden Boozer: If Boozer returns, how would the two mesh as a backcourt tandem?

*Defensive impact: Jon Scheyer has emphasized length and versatility on defense—traits Smith Jr. possesses in abundance. The crew analyzes how seamlessly he could slide into that scheme.

*NBA comparisons: Every fan wants to know "who does he play like?" and the podcast offers some intriguing comps for Smith Jr.'s ceiling.

Why You Should Listen

For Duke fans, this episode is the perfect blend of present and future. On one hand, you'll get an inside look at how two recent Blue Devils are faring in the NBA and what their paths might look like in Charlotte. On the other, you'll gain insight into one of the most important recruiting battles of the next two years.

Whether you're tracking the Hornets' fortunes, following the draft, or just eager to dream about future Duke lineups, this episode of TheDevilsDen.com Podcast is required listening.

? Available now wherever you get your podcasts

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