Hornets Rookies Shine in Early Season
Center Ryan Kalkbrenner, guard Kon Knueppel, and guard Sion James have quickly established themselves as some of the most productive first-year players in the league. The 2025-26 draft class, led by forwards Ace Bailey and Cooper Flagg and guard V.J. Edgecombe, has made a strong impression, but the Charlotte Hornets’ rookies stand out for all the right reasons.
Ryan Kalkbrenner: A Historic Start
Kalkbrenner is quickly becoming one of the biggest stories of this rookie class. He’s off to a historic start, shooting 90.0% from the field—the highest ever by a rookie through their first five games with at least five attempts per game. According to NBA.com, he ranks No. 2 in true shooting percentage across the league and leads the NBA in effective field goal percentage at 82.9%.
Kalkbrenner also leads all rookies in rebounds per game at 7.1, while guard Kon Knueppel ranks No. 4 with 5.8, and guard Sion James sits at No. 11 with 3.1.
Defensive Impact
Defensively, Kalkbrenner has been just as impactful. He ranks No. 9 in the Kia Rookie Ladder and leads all first-year players in offensive rebounds and blocked shots. His 19 blocks trail only center Victor Wembanyama’s 29 through the first two weeks. His combination of rim protection and rebounding has made him a difference-maker on both ends of the floor.
Kon Knueppel: A Steal in the Draft
It takes guts to draft a player without a clear comparison, but with how quickly his game has translated, Knueppel already looks like a steal.
Author’s Summary
The Hornets’ rookies are making a strong case for All-Rookie honors thanks to their standout performances and immediate impact on both ends of the court.