The Charlotte Hornets will begin their 2026–27 NBA season without Kon Knueppel, Coby White and Grant Williams, with all three players ruled out of Wednesday's opening game against the Brooklyn Nets.
Charlotte confirmed that Knueppel, who is recovering from a left hamstring strain, White, who has a left calf strain, and Williams, who is dealing with a right hamstring injury, have returned to individual on-court activity.
Although that represents progress in their rehabilitation, none of the three has been cleared to return to competitive action. The Hornets have not announced a specific timetable for their availability.
Knueppel's absence is particularly significant following an impressive rookie campaign. The 2025 No. 4 overall pick averaged 18.5 points, 5.3 rebounds and 3.4 assists in 81 appearances last season. He also made 273 three-pointers, setting a new NBA rookie record.
White provides another important offensive option for Charlotte. The guard joined the Hornets from Chicago in February and signed a new three-year contract during the offseason. His calf injury has kept him sidelined since training camp.
Williams' continued absence also reduces the team's frontcourt depth as head coach Charles Lee prepares for the opening stages of the season.
Charlotte will visit Brooklyn on Wednesday before returning home to face the Atlanta Hawks on Friday. The team says further injury updates will be provided when appropriate.