Hornets' Kon Knueppel exits to locker room in season debut, grabbing injured hamstring

Will Dehmel, The Charlotte Observer on Nov 4, 2026

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CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Kon Knueppel exited to the locker room just six minutes into his season debut Wednesday night.

The second-year forward started against the Brooklyn Nets after missing the first eight regular-season games due to a left hamstring strain.

In the sixth minute, Knueppel committed a turnover on the offensive end of the floor before limping back to the bench, holding that same left hamstring and grimacing while a trainer looked at it.

The Hornets said Knueppel had “soreness in his left leg” and would not return.

Knueppel was coming off a record-breaking rookie season, during which he became the first rookie to lead the NBA in 3-pointers made. But Knueppel suffered a hamstring injury during offseason workouts and missed the preseason.

The Hornets, who currently rank last in field-goal percentage and points per game, were looking forward to Knueppel’s return.

Knueppel had three points — all on free throws — and committed two turnovers in his short time on the court.