X-rays negative for Hornets rookie Kon Knueppel (ankle)

Field Level Media|published: 12/27/2025, 10:27am EST

Dec 22, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard Kon Knueppel (7) dribbles the ball in the first quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images

Early indications were that Charlotte Hornets rookie guard Kon Knueppel avoided a serious ankle injury during Friday night's win at Orlando.

The Rookie of the Year candidate left late in the first half after twisting his right ankle as he came down for a rebound, finishing the 120-105 victory over the Magic with 16 points.

Hornets coach Charles Lee told reporters after the game that X-rays were negative and Knueppel would receive further evaluation after the team returned to Charlotte.

Knueppel was tracking down Desmond Bane as he drove to the hoop, and Knueppel went up for a rebound. Knueppel's right foot landed on teammate Moussa Diabate's right foot, and Knueppel's ankle twisted badly with 15.9 seconds left in the half.

After staying down for a couple of minutes, Knueppel was helped back to the Hornets' locker room and later ruled out for the game.

Knueppel, 20, was the No. 4 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft out of Duke. He is averaging 19.3 points, 5.1 rebounds and 3.5 assists in 31 games (30 starts) and shooting 42.8% from 3-point range.

--Field Level Media