Image Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

Brooklyn Nets in Strong Pursuit of Duke Sharpshooter Kon Knueppel, Front Office Targets Three-Point Upgrade

Nets in talks with Duke star, eye No. 8 pick

Image Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

The Brooklyn Nets have turned their attention to the upcoming NBA Draft in hopes of upgrading their current roster. The Nets, who finished at the 12th position in the Eastern Conference standings are staring at a continuous rebuild. The team holds multiple first-round picks across upcoming draft events, giving them ample opportunity to rebuild.

The Nets, who finished third from last in terms of three point shooting, are looking for an elite beyond the arc shooter. Their offense has lacked the deep threat while driving to the paint and scoring has also been an issue. According to recent reports, the Brooklyn Nets have their sights on a Duke star.

Kon Knueppel, who had a breakthrough college basketball season for the Duke Blue Devils has been shortlisted by Brooklyn Nets. The freshman checks every box in Brooklyn’s search for a reliable perimeter scorer. He is a physically imposing player, standing at 6 foot 6 inches and 217 pound size.

Kon Knueppel played an essential role for Duke, shouldering significant shot-creation duties while spacing the floor and holding his own defensively. He's an outstanding passer, especially out of pick and roll, with a unique combination of competitiveness, feel and versatility. pic.twitter.com/Z5R7Mg1kye
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) April 16, 2025

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The 19-year-old throughout the NCAA season was known for causing damage to opposition through his beyond the arc weapon. He averaged 14.4 points, 4 rebounds, and 2.7 assists with 47.9 percent accuracy. Moreover, his three point shooting stood at 40.6 percent.

Knueppel’s elite shot-making and high basketball IQ have led the Nets to believe he could develop into one of the league’s top shooters. He is already being compared to Cam Johnson, Saddiq Bey, Kevin Huerter and Corey Kispert. The NBA stars are known for their smooth release and high basketball IQ.

Brooklyn Nets Prepare to Bet on Kon Knueppel

The Brooklyn Nets have recently made contact with Kon Knueppel and his representatives. A meeting also has taken place where the Nets’ management emphasized their willingness to pick Knueppel. With the order of draft picks, the Eastern Conference side has a bright chance to pick the Duke freshman through their 8th overall pick.

Brooklyn had hoped for better lottery luck, but the No. 8 slot still leaves them in a strong position to land their target. This year’s draft lottery turned out quite unusual. The Dallas Mavericks landed the first pick, while teams like the Washington Wizards, Toronto Raptors and New Orleans Pelicans didn’t even get a top 5 pick.