The Charlotte Hornets entered Wednesday night’s matchup against the Indiana Pacers looking to snap a three-game losing streak. But despite facing a team that arrived with a 1-13 record, Charlotte was unable to find answers on either end of the floor. The Pacers controlled much of the game and delivered a decisive blow in the second quarter, outscoring the Hornets 32-21. Indiana led by as many as 24 points before Charlotte mounted a late push, but the Hornets ultimately fell short in a nine-point loss.
Once again, rookie guard Kon Knueppel was the bright spot. The first-year standout led all scorers with 28 points, adding eight rebounds, seven assists and five made threes while shooting 11-for-20 from the field. Knueppel’s consistency and efficiency have quickly made him one of Charlotte’s most dependable players, even as the team continues to search for stability.
LaMelo Ball, meanwhile, endured one of his tougher nights of the season. Ball posted 18 points, nine assists and seven rebounds, but his shooting woes hurt Charlotte’s chances. The former All-Star shot 5-for-21 from the field and 2-for-11 from beyond the arc. He also committed six turnovers, adding to an already difficult offensive outing.
Considering Ball’s recent struggles, combined with Knueppel’s rapid ascent and Ball’s injury history, some fans and analysts have begun to wonder whether the Hornets are shifting toward Knueppel as the centerpiece of their future. Ball is only in the second year of a five-year, $203 million extension, but trade speculation has hovered around him since last season. Knueppel’s breakout has only intensified those discussions.
The Hornets will have two days of rest before returning home to face the Los Angeles Clippers on Saturday, a matchup where both Ball and Knueppel will again look to guide Charlotte back into the win column.
More NBA news:
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- San Antonio loses another young star to injury
- Suns acquire 20 PPG scorer from G League
- Jaime Jaquez Jr. Emerging as early Sixth Man of the Year candidate for Heat