Hornets Ride Youth Wave to Play-In Spotlight
Charlotte’s turnaround has real momentum: rookie Kon Knueppel set a franchise 3-point record and has become a Rookie of the Year contender, LaMelo Ball has grown into a stabilizing star, and a retooled front office with heavy investment in development has built a fast, efficient offense anchored by strong rebounding. The Hornets have surged since January, posting top-tier net ratings and offensive efficiency, and sit in Play-In position with a young core and draft capital to sustain the rise—though sustainability and steps beyond the Play-In remain the next test.