Hornets announce interesting starting five as Kon Knueppel returns to the lineup

A look at the first five for Charlotte.

Dec 23, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Charlotte Hornets forward Kon Knueppel (7) shoots a three during the second half against the Washington Wizards at the Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-Imagn Images | Sam Sharpe-Imagn Images

We've got some New Year's Eve action this afternoon between the Charlotte Hornets and the Golden State Warriors.

Moments ago, Hornets head coach Charles Lee submitted his starting lineup for this afternoon's game, going with four guards.

The first five for the Hive

G LaMelo Ball

Four straight 20+ point performances for Melo, who is really heating up from three. He's hit 20 triples in the last four games.

G Brandon Miller

Miller set a single-season high with 31 against Milwaukee earlier this week, draining 9/22 shots from the field.

G Collin Sexton

Sexton has been solid since his return to the floor, scoring 12,13, and 16 points against Washington, Orlando, and Milwaukee.

G Kon Knueppel

With Miles Bridges out, Lee is going to try to spread the floor against a team that has been playing small ball for a long time now. Tidjane Salaun will certainly see some action off the bench, but it's clear Lee wants as many shooters out there as possible. It's a huge break for Charlotte that Kon's ankle injury only cost him one game.

C Moussa Diabate

Since Diabate has taken over the starting spot for the injured Ryan Kalkbrenner, he's posted two double-doubles and was one rebound shy of a third the other night against Milwaukee.

Charles Lee on Knueppel's return

"The fountain of youth is a real thing. Being young, his body is able to bounce back quicker, but also his mindset—you walk past the training room, and he's in there doing everything he possibly can to come back as soon as he possibly can. It's his mindset, it's his approach, and attacking his return to play plan. We're excited to have him back on the court. His overall competitive spirit, what he brings on both ends of the court, will be good for us to have."

The Hornets and Warriors will get the action started at approximately 1:10 p.m. ET. You can stream the game live on FanDuel Sports Network Southeast.

- MORE STORIES FROM HORNETS ON SI -

Why trading LaMelo Ball could cost the Hornets more than just talent

Steph Curry returns to Charlotte for New Year's Eve battle with Hornets

Brandon Miller's monster dunk, Tidjane Salaün's moment, and more from the Hornets' loss to Bucks

Charles Lee gives the latest update on Hornets star rookie Kon Knueppel

Kon Knueppel's unfortunate ankle injury opens up major opportunity for Hornets' underrated rookie