Hornets Keep Rolling: Charlotte Tops Atlanta Behind Knueppel’s Hot Hand and LaMelo’s Control
The Charlotte Hornets are officially on a heater. With a 126-119 win over the Atlanta Hawks, they’ve now strung together nine straight victories - their longest winning streak since April of 1999.
And this one wasn’t just about the final score. It was about a young team continuing to find its identity, led by a rookie sharpshooter, a floor general in full command, and a frontcourt that refused to be pushed around.
Let’s break it down.
Kon Knueppel: Rookie Record-Setter with a Veteran’s Poise
Kon Knueppel was the headline grabber in this one, and for good reason. The rookie forward poured in 23 points, grabbed 8 boards, dished out 4 assists, and even added a block for good measure.
But the real story? He knocked down six triples, setting a new rookie record with his 14th game of 5+ made threes.
That’s not just volume - that’s consistency. And it’s the kind of shooting that stretches defenses, opens up driving lanes, and forces opponents to make tough decisions on every possession. Knueppel didn’t just hit open shots; he hit timely ones, and his confidence is starting to look downright dangerous.
LaMelo Ball: Steering the Ship with Swagger and Skill
LaMelo Ball didn’t need to light up the scoreboard to make his presence felt. His 19 points and 9 assists tell part of the story, but it was the way he controlled tempo and attacked the paint that stood out. This may have been his best driving game of the season - slicing through defenders, collapsing the defense, and creating opportunities for his teammates.
He also hit a personal milestone, becoming the second-fastest player in Hornets history to reach 2,000 made field goals. Only Larry Johnson got there quicker, which puts LaMelo in elite company. Nights like this are a reminder that when Ball is locked in, the Hornets are a different team - faster, more fluid, and far more dangerous.
Moussa Diabate: Relentless on the Glass
Every team needs a guy who does the dirty work, and Moussa Diabate played that role to perfection. He finished with 11 points and a commanding 15 rebounds, anchoring the Hornets on the boards and making life miserable for Atlanta’s bigs.
Diabate’s energy was contagious. He fought for every loose ball, boxed out with purpose, and gave Charlotte multiple second-chance opportunities. He may not always fill up the highlight reel, but his impact was undeniable in this one.
Josh Green: Quiet but Effective
Josh Green didn’t stuff the stat sheet - 8 points, a few smart passes - but his contributions went beyond the box score. Defensively, he was sharp.
He rotated well, contested shots, and stayed active in passing lanes. Offensively, he made the right reads and knocked down shots when needed.
For a team trying to build sustainable success, having role players like Green who can step in and make winning plays is essential.
Jalen Johnson: A Lone Bright Spot for Atlanta
On the other side, Jalen Johnson did everything he could to keep the Hawks in it. He finished just shy of a triple-double with 31 points, 9 rebounds, and 9 assists, and he was a nightmare to guard all night. He drew fouls at will and kept pressure on Charlotte’s defense every time he touched the ball.
But it wasn’t enough. Atlanta couldn’t match Charlotte’s balance, and they struggled to contain the Hornets’ perimeter shooting and transition game.
What This Win Means for Charlotte
This isn’t just a fun win in early February - it’s a statement. The Hornets are figuring things out. They’re getting meaningful contributions from their young core, they’re locking in on both ends, and they’re starting to believe.
Knueppel’s shooting, LaMelo’s leadership, Diabate’s toughness - it’s all coming together. And with nine straight wins, momentum is very real.
For the first time in a long time, Charlotte basketball is buzzing again.