Knueppel’s Stellar Freshman Campaign at Duke

As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, Duke freshman wing Kon Knueppel has emerged as a compelling prospect, drawing significant interest from teams holding top-five picks, notably the Charlotte Hornets and the Utah Jazz. Knueppel’s exceptional shooting ability, basketball IQ, and versatility have positioned him as a potential cornerstone for franchises seeking to bolster their perimeter play.

Standing at 6-foot-7 and weighing 217 pounds, Knueppel showcased a polished offensive skill set during his lone season with the Blue Devils. He averaged 19 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per 40 minutes, boasting a true shooting percentage of 64.2% . His performance was highlighted by a standout game against Miami, where he scored 25 points on 9-of-11 shooting, including 6-of-8 from beyond the arc .

Knueppel’s shooting mechanics are lauded for their consistency and quick release, making him a formidable threat from three-point range. Beyond his shooting, he demonstrated advanced footwork, effective use of screens, and a keen sense for off-ball movement . His ability to read defenses and make smart decisions in pick-and-roll situations further underscores his offensive versatility.

Charlotte Hornets: Seeking a Perimeter Sharpshooter

The Charlotte Hornets, holding the fourth overall pick, are reportedly intrigued by Knueppel’s fit alongside their young core, including LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. Knueppel’s shooting and off-ball movement could complement Ball’s playmaking, providing the Hornets with a reliable perimeter threat. Additionally, his unselfish play and defensive awareness align with the team’s emphasis on versatility and team-oriented basketball .

Utah Jazz: Evaluating a High-IQ Wing

Similarly, the Utah Jazz, selecting fifth, are evaluating Knueppel as a potential addition to their roster. With a focus on building around Lauri Markkanen and Keyonte George, the Jazz value Knueppel’s shooting and basketball intelligence. His ability to contribute immediately and adapt to various roles makes him an appealing option for a team aiming to enhance its offensive efficiency .

Scouting Report: Strengths and Areas for Improvement

Strengths:

• Elite Shooting: Knueppel’s shooting prowess is his standout attribute. He excels in catch-and-shoot situations and has the ability to create his shot off the dribble. His shooting mechanics are consistent, and he maintains a high shooting percentage from beyond the arc .
• Basketball IQ: Knueppel demonstrates a deep understanding of the game, making smart decisions on the court. He reads defenses effectively and adapts his play accordingly .
• Versatility: Beyond shooting, he contributes as a secondary playmaker and is effective in pick-and-roll scenarios. His size allows him to guard multiple positions, and he competes with toughness on the defensive end .

Areas for Improvement:

• Athleticism: Knueppel’s lack of elite athleticism is a noted concern. He may struggle to defend quicker guards and wings at the NBA level .
• Defensive Consistency: While he shows effort on defense, his lateral quickness and ability to stay in front of agile opponents need enhancement .
• Transition Play: His effectiveness in fast-break situations is limited due to his average speed and explosiveness .

Comparisons and Projections

Analysts have drawn comparisons between Knueppel and NBA players like Malcolm Brogdon and Desmond Bane, citing similarities in shooting ability, basketball IQ, and versatility . His skill set suggests he could serve as a valuable connector piece on a team, contributing in multiple facets of the game without necessarily being the primary scoring option .

Given his strengths and the areas he needs to develop, Knueppel is projected to be a top-five pick in the upcoming draft. His fit with teams like the Hornets and Jazz, who are looking to add shooting and high-IQ players to their rosters, makes him a compelling choice.

Kon Knueppel’s combination of elite shooting, basketball intelligence, and versatility makes him one of the most intriguing prospects in the 2025 NBA Draft. While there are concerns about his athleticism and defensive capabilities, his offensive skill set and understanding of the game position him as a player who can make an immediate impact. As the draft approaches, teams like the Charlotte Hornets and Utah Jazz will continue to evaluate how Knueppel’s talents can fit into their long-term plans.