Knueppel’s emergence could be a major theme for Duke this season.
When it comes to Duke freshman this year, Cooper Flagg has gotten the most attention, followed by Khaman Maluach. After that, most people assumed it would probably be Isaiah Evans, but the buzz out of Duke has been more about Kon Knueppel.
A 6-7 native of Wisconsin - he’s apparently grown an inch since his senior season in high school - Knueppel has, from all accounts, been really, really good so far for the Blue Devils.
Here’s what Jon Scheyer says about his surprisingly advanced freshman: “Kon Knueppel is going to be such a great addition. He can shoot with the best of them and can score with the best of them. But it’s his ability to make others better — to pass, to handle — and he’s a tough competitor on the defensive end as well. And that versatility, with that winning pedigree that he brings to the table, will be terrific for our program.”
We’ve talked a lot about the Super Duper Cooper hype which has been crazy, and to a lesser extent the Maluach hype. Having Knueppel, who is 6-7, fairly physically mature for a 19-year-old, and already with a versatile game, is a huge asset for Duke. Put him in the lineup with Flagg and Duke has not one but two highly intriguing forwards to work with this season.
Also important and not to jinx anything, but Knueppel’s emergence gives Duke a bit of insurance. You always start the season hoping no one gets hurt, but things happen as we saw with Justin Robinson, Dariq Whitehead, Mark Mitchell and Zion Williamson. Having a guy like Knueppel around can make a big difference.
