Hornets Rookie Shines in Early Pre-Season Action

After a disappointing 2024–25 season that saw the Charlotte Hornets finish with a 19–63 record, they returned to the court Sunday night, hoping for a fresh start. While they dropped their preseason opener 135–114 to the Oklahoma City Thunder, the performance wasn’t without positives.

Chief among them: the debut of fourth overall pick Kon Knueppel. The rookie impressed with 18 points on 6-of-13 shooting, including 4-of-10 from beyond the arc.

With Josh Green still recovering from injury and the regular season fast approaching, Knueppel’s chances of earning a starting role are increasing. But what will he need to show to keep it? Let’s dive in.

Developing Depth Beyond the Spotlight

With the Eastern Conference wide open, the Hornets have a real opportunity to climb into contention. The talent is there from top to bottom—but the issues that have stalled the team’s progress in recent years must finally be addressed.

Chief among them is the development of their young core. Outside of LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, and Miles Bridges, Charlotte’s recent draft picks have largely struggled to make an impact. Tidjane Salaun is still trying to find his footing in year two, while Nick Smith Jr. and James Bouknight are no longer with the team. Mark Williams, once projected as a key piece, was traded to the Phoenix Suns in the offseason.

That’s what makes Knueppel’s skill set so important. A prototypical 3&D wing, he brings shooting and perimeter defense—two areas where the Hornets were thin for most of last season. His ability to hit open shots and stay locked in defensively gives him a clear path to meaningful minutes—and maybe more.

Team Direction

If Knueppel can thrive early, he could lock down a spot in the rotation regardless of how the season unfolds. Should the Hornets take a step forward, his emergence as a steady two-way presence could be a significant reason why. Even if the team struggles, Knueppel can use the season to grow and come back stronger in Year 2.

Like any rookie, Knueppel will face rough patches. The key will be how he responds—whether he can adjust, stay confident, and continue to contribute. His growth depends on consistency, resilience through struggles, and making an impact on both ends of the floor.

The good news for Charlotte is that Knueppel’s approach already reflects a maturity beyond his years. He plays within himself, doesn’t force the game, and shows a willingness to compete—traits that earn trust quickly in the NBA. Staying focused and embracing his role could cement Knueppel’s spot and position him as a future cornerstone for the Hornets.

In Conclusion

For Kon Knueppel, the opportunity is right in front of him—and he’s already showing he’s ready to seize it. With a clear role, a team in need of his exact skill set, and minutes up for grabs, the path to impact is wide open.

Not every rookie gets a chance like this. Some have to wait behind veterans or fight for touches. But Knueppel has the platform, and now it’s about making the most of every possession, every defensive stand, every shot. If Knueppel stays locked in and does the little things, he can help lead the Hornets’ turnaround.