Flagg has missed eight consecutive games with a foot injury, sidelined since before the All-Star break. His absence has allowed Knueppel to climb to the top of the Rookie of the Year standings.
Before Tuesday’s game between the Mavericks and Hornets which Flagg sat out Knueppel was asked about his former roommate. His response was equal parts love and competitive fire:
Before his injury, Flagg was averaging 20.4 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 4.1 assists over 49 games elite numbers for a rookie.
Knueppel has posted 19.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists across 61 appearances. He’s already matched Stephen Curry’s rookie three-point record and is on pace to challenge Keegan Murray’s existing mark.
“I think he’s done great. I don’t even think it’s close. Kon’s done a really good job continuing to separate himself and impact winning and have consistency to him on both ends of the floor.”
Despite now being on opposing teams, Flagg and Knueppel remain close. Their Duke bond runs deep, and their friendly competition adds an extra layer to what’s already a compelling rookie race.
Kon Knueppel wants Cooper Flagg back on the court. He also wants to beat him for Rookie of the Year.