Duke’s Kon Knueppel Predicted to Join Forces With $195 Million NBA Star in Upcoming Draft Shake-Up

As the 2025 NBA Draft looms large, one name has quietly but confidently crept into conversations surrounding potential lottery picks: Kon Knueppel, the dynamic wing from Duke University. In a draft class rich with athleticism and raw talent, Knueppel brings a unique polish—refined shooting, high basketball IQ, and a game that’s immediately translatable to the NBA. But beyond his rising draft stock, what’s igniting buzz is the strong possibility that Knueppel may land with the Philadelphia 76ers—placing him alongside none other than former MVP and $195 million contract man, James Harden.

While Knueppel’s game speaks volumes, the potential synergy between him and Harden could signal a seismic shift in the 76ers’ ongoing rebuild. A blend of elite experience and youthful promise, this pairing might redefine the trajectory of a franchise long in search of the perfect formula.

Who is Kon Knueppel?

Kon Knueppel might not have arrived at Duke with the fanfare of some other one-and-done freshmen, but by the end of his first year, he had become one of the Blue Devils’ most reliable and efficient offensive options. Standing at 6-foot-7 and weighing in around 215 pounds, Knueppel is a modern NBA wing with an old-school flair. He’s not the flashiest athlete, but what he lacks in vertical explosiveness, he more than compensates for with elite shot-making and feel for the game.

Born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Knueppel grew up immersed in basketball culture. His father played college ball, and from a young age, Knueppel was regarded as a cerebral, disciplined, and highly coachable player. By the time he committed to Duke, his reputation as a three-level scorer was well-established.

During his freshman campaign, Knueppel averaged 14.4 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game while shooting a scorching 39.2% from three and over 91% from the free-throw line. His offensive efficiency and decision-making made him a cornerstone of Duke’s half-court sets. Scouts have particularly noted his off-ball movement and ability to find seams in the defense—skills that pair beautifully with an elite facilitator like Harden.

What Makes Knueppel Stand Out?

1. Shooting Mechanics and Range

Knueppel is one of the best pure shooters in the draft. His quick release, high shooting pocket, and strong footwork make him lethal off the catch and reliable off the bounce. He excels in transition threes, corner looks, and even contested shots—shooting nearly 42% on guarded catch-and-shoot opportunities, according to Synergy Sports.

2. High Basketball IQ

He doesn’t force the game. Knueppel thrives in reading defenses and understanding spacing. Whether it’s cutting at the right time, relocating on penetration, or simply making the extra pass, he plays like a seasoned vet. He averaged fewer than 1.5 turnovers per game at Duke—a testament to his control and decision-making.

3. Positional Versatility

Though primarily a shooting guard or small forward, Knueppel has shown flashes of secondary ball-handling. In stretches, he ran the offense for Duke and displayed solid court vision. Defensively, he’s smart enough to guard wings and some guards, though his lateral quickness needs work.

The 76ers’ Draft Strategy

Philadelphia enters the 2025 offseason at a crossroads. After several playoff disappointments and a shifting core, the team has made it clear it intends to balance veteran leadership with young talent. James Harden, who re-signed with the team in 2023 for a $195 million deal, remains a critical piece, but the window to win now is closing fast. Enter Kon Knueppel.

The Sixers are projected to have a lottery pick in this year’s draft—somewhere between picks 8 to 12—depending on final standings and lottery luck. According to multiple mock drafts from ESPN, The Ringer, and Bleacher Report, Knueppel is firmly within this range.

Sources close to the Sixers’ front office have suggested the team is prioritizing players who can contribute immediately but still offer upside. Knueppel fits this mold perfectly. He wouldn’t need to carry the offensive load—Harden, Tyrese Maxey, and Joel Embiid (if healthy and staying in Philadelphia) already have that covered. Instead, he could slot in as a floor-spacing, low-usage, high-impact role player who grows into a bigger role over time.

James Harden: The Veteran Presence

There was once a time when James Harden was viewed as a ball-dominant scorer who struggled to adapt. But his evolution with the 76ers has been nothing short of remarkable. Harden has embraced a playmaker’s role—leading the league in assists in 2023—and has transformed into the veteran every young team wants.

Harden’s four-year, $195 million deal raised eyebrows, but he has since demonstrated he still belongs among the league’s elite when healthy. His ability to manipulate defenses with his handle and vision means he needs teammates who can make defenses pay when they collapse on drives. That’s where Knueppel’s shooting becomes essential.

A Harden-Knueppel pick-and-pop, or simple drive-and-kick scenario, could quickly become one of the more efficient two-man actions in the league. Harden’s gravity and passing wizardry would give Knueppel the kinds of open looks he feasted on at Duke.

How Would Knueppel Fit in Philly?

Offensively:

Philadelphia’s offense under head coach Nick Nurse has emphasized ball movement, spacing, and corner three opportunities. Knueppel would slot into this system effortlessly. With Embiid demanding double teams in the post and Harden operating as a point-forward, Knueppel’s movement and quick release would provide valuable floor balance.

Moreover, Knueppel can operate in motion sets. He’s comfortable coming off pin-downs, flare screens, and running quick dribble hand-offs—actions the Sixers already employ frequently.

Defensively:

Knueppel’s main question mark is his defense. He’s not unplayable by any means—he’s strong, has solid fundamentals, and doesn’t gamble—but his lack of elite foot speed could be targeted. The Sixers would likely need to protect him with favorable matchups early in his career. But with veterans like De’Anthony Melton and PJ Tucker (if retained) providing mentorship, Knueppel should improve his positioning and anticipation.

How Realistic is the Fit?

All signs point to this being more than just a rumor. Knueppel has reportedly met twice with Philadelphia scouts, and sources suggest he is “very high” on their draft board. Moreover, Harden has expressed interest in mentoring young players and has recently said he’s open to “guiding the next generation,” a comment many interpreted as a subtle nod to the Sixers’ draft ambitions.

Additionally, Knueppel’s game complements Harden’s in every way. He doesn’t need the ball to be effective, can shoot off movement, and has the temperament to thrive alongside alpha personalities.

There’s also the long-term vision: Harden won’t be around forever, and Knueppel has the upside to grow into a core piece. His development could ensure the Sixers remain competitive even after their veteran stars move on.

The Bigger Picture

Draft night in the NBA is often full of surprises, but if the Sixers pull the trigger on Knueppel, it would represent a strategic and calculated move toward sustainable contention. Teams like the Denver Nuggets and Boston Celtics have shown that the blend of elite veterans and mature young players is the new blueprint for success.

Knueppel won’t make highlight reels for windmill dunks or chasedown blocks—but what he offers is consistency, reliability, and an elite shooting stroke. In the NBA, where floor spacing is king, players like Knueppel hold tremendous value.

Kon Knueppel isn’t just a fringe prospect anymore—he’s becoming a centerpiece in pre-draft conversations. His possible alignment with James Harden in Philadelphia is more than a storyline; it’s a potential strategic pivot for a franchise hungry for success.

A Knueppel-Harden duo would give the 76ers an immediate offensive jolt and a long-term investment. Whether this pairing comes to fruition will depend on draft-day decisions and perhaps a bit of luck, but one thing is certain: Kon Knueppel is ready for the NBA spotlight, and the Sixers may just be the perfect stage.