Charlotte Hornets rookie standout Con Knuppel hobbled off the court at the end of the first half during Friday night’s game against Orlando and missed the entire second half. Although the specifics of his injury and recovery timeline remain undisclosed, coach Charles Lee confirmed post-game that X-rays revealed no abnormalities. The injury happened after Knuppel jumped on a shot attempt by Orlando’s Desmond Bane and landed awkwardly on Bane’s legs.
Selected fourth overall from Duke University last June, Knuppel has been a breakthrough player for the Hornets, averaging 19.3 points per game—second highest on the team—alongside 5.1 rebounds and shooting an impressive 42.8 percent from beyond the arc. He has emerged as a strong contender for Rookie of the Year.
Despite Knuppel’s absence, the Hornets secured a 120-105 victory over the Magic, led by LaMelo Ball’s 22 points and seven rebounds. Miles Bridges contributed a double-double with 16 points and 11 rebounds, while Knuppel scored 16 points in the first quarter before leaving the game. The Magic, who previously made it to the NBA Cup semifinals, have struggled recently with a 2-4 record.
Fan Take: Knuppel’s injury is a crucial storyline because it could impact one of the most exciting young talents in the league and his team’s playoff aspirations. Fans should watch closely, as his health and performance may shape the Hornets’ future and the Rookie of the Year race this season.
