Kon Knueppel’s Calm Presence Is Exactly What the Hornets Needed
When a coach compares a rookie to Tim Duncan, ears perk up. That’s exactly what Charlotte Hornets head coach Charles Lee did when talking about Kon Knueppel - and while the comparison might not be about skillset or accolades just yet, it speaks volumes about Knueppel’s temperament.
After the Hornets’ win on Thursday, Lee was asked about Knueppel’s composure, and he didn’t hesitate to draw a line back to his time with the San Antonio Spurs. Lee, who spent time with the Spurs during training camp years ago, recalled how Duncan was the same guy every day - whether he’d just hit 10 shots in a row or missed 10 straight. That steadiness, Lee said, is what he sees in Knueppel.
“The highs, the lows never really affected him,” Lee said. “You can walk in the gym; you didn't know if he made 10 in a row or missed 10 in a row.”
That kind of emotional evenness isn’t just a nice trait - it’s a rare one, especially for a rookie trying to find his footing in the NBA. Lee went further, noting that Knueppel, like Duncan, has that quiet, internal fire - a “killer instinct” that doesn’t need to be loud or flashy to be effective.
“He’s not gonna give his opponent a chance to see where he is emotionally or anything,” Lee added.
That’s high praise from a coach who’s been around championship-caliber teams and players. Lee’s résumé includes assistant coaching stints with the Milwaukee Bucks and Boston Celtics - both recent NBA champions - and his understanding of what makes a winning locker room tick is well-established. So when he talks about Knueppel as a stabilizing force, it’s worth paying attention.
The Hornets May Have Found Their Perfect Fit
Knueppel’s demeanor doesn’t just stand out in a vacuum - it stands out because of how well it complements the Hornets’ current core. Charlotte used the No. 4 pick in the 2025 draft to bring him in, and it’s already looking like a smart move. His game has translated quickly to the pro level, but it’s his maturity and poise that might make the biggest difference.
Look at the rest of the roster. LaMelo Ball is a showman by nature - electric with the ball, always looking for the highlight.
He’s toned it down some, but the flair is still there. Brandon Miller brings a more controlled style, but he’s had his moments too - including becoming the only Hornet to be ejected this season after picking up two technicals in a single game.
That’s where Knueppel comes in. He’s the steady hand.
The guy who doesn’t ride the emotional rollercoaster. Every team needs that - especially one with young, expressive stars still learning how to manage the highs and lows of an 82-game season.
It’s not about Knueppel taking over or outshining his teammates. It’s about balance.
His presence can help anchor a locker room that’s still growing into itself. And if his early play is any indication, he’s not just along for the ride - he’s going to be a key piece of what Charlotte is building.
There’s still a long way to go, and no one’s putting Knueppel in the Hall of Fame just yet. But the Hornets didn’t just draft a talented player - they may have found a culture-setter. And in today’s NBA, that’s just as valuable.