Duke Superstar Crowned MVP of Summer League

Knueppel struggled to shoot early on but ultimately finished averaging 15.6 points per game, 4.8 rebounds per game, and 3.8 assists per game while shooting 41% from the field and 34% from three. He showed a knack for the clutch play as he had in his freshman season at Duke as well. In the final, he hit a huge three to extend the lead to 4 under a minute to go when the game was starting to swing towards the Kings.

Just as he did at Duke, Knueppel led an undermanned team to this title with the absence of McNeeley and James for the majority of the games.

Areas of Improvement

The game did not necessarily come easy to Knueppel in Vegas. He shot it well below his capabilities from three which made everything a bit harder for him. One of the main issues was the lack of floor spacing. When he joins the big club, the Hornets will place a lot more shooting around him which will make it much easier for him to attack closeouts. With an easier attack off closeouts comes an easier spot up jumper because the closeouts slow down. He also was the target of defenses given his lofty status as the number four overall pick.

While defense has been a bit of a worry, Knueppel actually defended quite well and was able to keep most of the ball-handlers out of the lane. However, Knueppel does not look quite as big as he did in college. He is more than willing to fight for rebounds, however, they are much harder to come by.

Charlotte Hornets Laud Knueppel

Since draft day, the Hornets have discussed the importance of developing a winning culture. They focused on proven winners in the draft and Knueppel fits that mold to a T. No, winning a Summer League title does not move the needle. However, the Hornets have had very little to cheer about in many years. Now, a number four overall pick has walked into the building and led a young group to a Summer League crown which is at least some positive energy to kickstart the season.

Knueppel’s best skill is his competitiveness. He is never out of a play no matter what the situation is. As was the case at Duke, up 30 or down 20, he would be diving on the floor or making the extra hustle play that makes a difference. It is plays like that which make a huge difference in changing cultures. Charles Lee came from Boston to develop a new culture and Knueppel is the guy he trusts to do that.

One of the main questions in Charlotte has been how much winning matters to players. Knueppel and the young crew in Vegas just proved that winning matters a lot to them.