Duke's Kon Knueppel Offers High Value in 2025 NBA Draft

Shooting Touch That Translates

At 6-foot-7, Knueppel has prototypical size for an NBA wing. His standout attribute is his shooting: he converted 40% of his three-point attempts this season, after shooting 39.2% at Duke and an eye-catching 48% on the EYBL circuit. That shooting touch extended to the free-throw line, where he hit 91%, a mark that speaks to his repeatable mechanics and mental discipline.

Polished, Smart, and Versatile Offensively

Beyond his shooting stroke, Knueppel is a composed and fundamentally sound offensive player. He averaged 14.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game while starting all 38 contests for the Blue Devils. His game expanded when Flagg missed time, culminating in an ACC Tournament MVP run where Knueppel averaged 21 points and 5.7 rebounds. He continued his strong postseason play by earning All-East Region honors.

Knueppel’s offensive value goes beyond catch-and-shoot scenarios. He attacks closeouts effectively, uses his frame well in the midrange and post, and has quietly developed into a capable pick-and-roll playmaker. His ability to make quick decisions is particularly appealing in NBA systems that emphasize ball movement and off-ball reads.

Athleticism and Defense: Areas to Watch

However, Knueppel is not without question marks. He lacks elite athleticism, which limits his rim finishing and lateral quickness. His dunk numbers just two successful attempts on five tries are low for a player of his size and position. Defensively, he competes, but whether he can consistently guard NBA-caliber wings remains to be seen.

A Safe Bet with Long-Term Upside

Knueppel's steadiness is a marketable trait in a draft where many prospects come with boom-or-bust potential. His high floor stems from translatable shooting, strong fundamentals, and a low-mistake approach. While he may not headline a franchise, he profiles as a long-term contributor in a rotation, an increasingly valuable commodity given the volatility of the draft landscape.

As teams look for dependable production from the wing position, Knueppel’s skill set is difficult to overlook. In a draft full of risk, Kon Knueppel might be one of its smartest investments.