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Detroit Pistons record: 2-5
Team: Duke
Position: SF
Size: 6’6″, 217 lbs
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Wally Szczerbiak
Even with Tyrese Proctor and Caleb Foster back, and Duke adding projected No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg, Kon Knueppel is too polished of a scorer to take a back seat.
With a highly convincing shooting stroke, physical drives and mid-range shotmaking versatility, his game is built for off-ball, spot-up scoring that scouts should deem translatable.
Given how sharp he is around the perimeter, and how competitive he can look defensively, the athletic limitations shouldn’t set off alarms.
Knueppel has scouts talking after Duke’s exhibition games. The level of shotmaking skill, fundamentally sound shot prep and clear passing IQ have created obvious pro vibes early.
With strong, 6’7″ size, highly convincing shooting and various other ways to drive or finish plays inside the arc, he looks ready to lead the Blue Devils in scoring at different points throughout the season.
Despite clear athletic limitations, he still has a chance to turn scouts into believers over his defense based on his strength, competitiveness and IQ.
Knueppel is going to look extremely adaptable to NBA teams, with a pro-ready jump shot and the ability to be used in different spots/actions off the ball.
