Behind the Cooper Flagg phenomenon (and in front of Khaman Maluach, chosen in 10th position), another Duke resident was quickly called by Adam Silver during the Draft. Selected with the fourth choice by the Hornets, Kon Knueppel is thus presented as the best shooter in the 2025 class.
It must be said that he impressed in his only season in Durham. The rear/winger split a 40.6% 3-point success over the season, percentages that rise to more than 45% in certain areas (46.3% in the corner).
A weapon to exploit well
For his first year on the upper floor, his figures will be scrutinized and he will have to confirm quickly. It will be a heavy responsibility that he is ready to assume.
“I feel it like that. To be able to shoot is a large part of my game. And not just to take the shot, but to use this weapon to create space for my teammates, or use a feint to create a different shot, for me, for a drive or to bring out the ball. So I must be able to play that, because it will be an important weapon for me”he said when he arrived in Charlotte.
With the profile of other major players such as Lamelo Ball, Miles Bridges or Brandon Miller, could Charlotte are moving towards a philosophy focused on an excessive 3-point shot?
“Clearly, we start to think about these things. I can’t wait to be on the ground and start working with them and see what role I could create myself. But I really have my ability to play with these guys and be able to integrate myself by their side”.
No defenseless attack
But the Hornets will not only be able to rest on the attack to get out of their nine years of scarcity without playoffs. To find a positive dynamic, beyond the injuries that have regularly sealed the group in recent seasons, it will be necessary to display a more solid defense, a point on which Kon Knuppel is expected.
“I think that our attitude must be focused on victory. It cannot be individual stats, but good things, to win matches. And that everyone adheres to the project, and cohesion must be there”he assured before mentioning the defense. “This is something that coach Charles Lee has spoken with me. He thinks I’m a good defender, and he thinks that I can provide a good effort on this side of the parquet. And he also wants me to be confident. So it’s something I have to continue working. I think it’s going to be an important part of my game”.
In a team that did not particularly shine by its defense or by its 3-point address last season (33.9%), Kon Knuppel will clearly have a playing card. In order to allow Hornets to find the playoffs?
