Kon Knueppel Favored Over Cooper Flagg in Latest NBA Rookie of the Year Odds After Making History

Charlotte Hornets sharpshooter Kon Knueppel is the new favorite to take home Rookie of the Year honors for the 2025-26 season.

Knueppel now owns the best consensus Rookie of the Year odds at -125, according to Action Network. Meanwhile, Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg owns the second-best odds at -110.

Knueppel made history on Thursday night, hitting his 209th three-pointer of the year and setting a new single-season record among rookies.

His achievement was especially impressive considering the Hornets still have 22 games remaining in the regular season.

Knueppel's shooting prowess doesn't just stand out among his fellow rookies, as his 209 triples are the most in the NBA.

He's shown why Charlotte selected him with the No. 4 overall pick in the 2025 NBA draft, averaging 19.4 points, 5.4 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game while shooting 49.1 percent from the field and 44.2 percent from behind the arc.

Knueppel has particularly excelled as of late, recording 22.7 points per game on 51.4/50.0/88.9 shooting splits over his past 10 appearances.

The 20-year-old's strong season has been a key reason for the Hornets' turnaround this year, as they've gone 18-8 since opening their 2025-26 campaign with an 11-23 record.

Still, Flagg is a threat to win Rookie of the Year instead of his former Duke teammate and it isn't difficult to see why.

He's showcased his all-around impact throughout his inaugural season despite searching for more rhythm with his perimeter jumper, averaging 20.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 1.2 steals and 0.8 blocks per game while connecting on 48.2 percent of his field goals.

Flagg is currently sidelined due to a left midfoot sprain, but could increase his Rookie of the Year odds once he's able to return.