Knueppel Leads Hornets, Overtakes Mavericks' Cooper Flagg for ROY

FanDuel now lists Charlotte’s rookie Kon Knueppel as the new favorite for Rookie of the Year at +110, edging Dallas phenom Cooper Flagg (+120). Knueppel, the No. 4 pick, is leading all rookies with 19.4 points, 5.8 rebounds and 2.9 assists while shooting 49.1/43.8/90.0; Flagg has flashed at 15.9 points, 6.4 rebounds and 3.1 assists but has struggled amid a depleted Mavericks unit and a 5-14 start. Merlin sees the shift as more than numbers — Knueppel’s efficiency and consistent role have put him “in the driver’s seat.” Flagg’s ceiling remains sky-high, and talents like Derik Queen and VJ Edgecombe can still stir the waters. This race is young; momentum matters as much as talent.