When the Charlotte Hornets used their No. 4 selection on Kon Knueppel in this summer's draft, there were folks who believed they made a mistake, arguing they should have chosen Ace Bailey instead. Even Tre Johnson's name popped up. Now, it has become clear that the Hornets were justified in taking Knueppel.
The Duke University product has emerged as a top candidate for the Rookie of the Year plum, although his college teammate Cooper Flagg is hot on his trail. He can regain or widen the lead if his shooting efficiency picks up again and his all-around game continues to develop.