Kon Knueppel, the Charlotte Hornets’ rookie sensation, suffered a right ankle injury in the first half against Orlando and did not return. Coach Charles Lee confirmed that X-rays were clean, but details on his recovery are unclear. Averaging 19.3 points and 5.1 rebounds per game, Knueppel has emerged as a Rookie of the Year contender. Despite his absence, the Hornets secured a 120-105 victory over the Magic, led by LaMelo Ball’s 22 points.
