Former Minnesota Timberwolves first-round draft pick Josh Okogie has built a reputation around the NBA for his defensive intensity and selfless effort. Now, as a member of the Charlotte Hornets, Okogie just got one more teammate he'll likely be competing for a rotation spot with in Kon Knueppel.
Okogie is currently on a non-guaranteed contract with the Hornets, and Knueppel's inclusion on the roster may make things more complicated for he and the team going forward. Kon projects as a rotation-ready scorer who could potentially take some of the available minutes at shooting guard and small forward.
Those who have watched Okogie play or interacted with him know the kind of energy and leadership he brings to whatever team he's a part of. He's a guy that coaches love and who garners the respect of his teammates in a hurry. With that being said, we know that the NBA is a business. Tough decisions often have to be made simply due to roster construction, financials, or contract structures rather than heart and hustle.
Okogie might be on the trading block
Through all of his career stops from Minnesota, to Phoenix, to Charlotte, Josh Okogie has made himself valuable in this league by making a point to do the little things. Talking on the court, making hustle plays, and putting his body on the line every night for his team are things that simply don't show up in box scores. It sounds like a cliche, but it's true.
With that being said, the Hornets' vision as a team is coming into focus. After drafting Kon Knueppel, it feels clear they have their next starting shooting guard on their hands, and that could obviously be a situation that reduces minutes for Okogie. Charlotte, like a lot of teams right now, are focusing on gaining more floor spacing and shooting, and those are just a little bit different attributes than the biggest skill sets of Okogie.
With all that being said, Okogie's journey is still far from finished. Even if the Hornets end up waving or trading him, his reputation as a defensive-minded veteran that puts the team above himself is still going to remain. Players like him simply don't grow on trees. Whether he stays in Charlotte or moves on to a different situation, Timberwolves fans who remain big supporters of Josh Okogie will likely be able to see him thrive regardless of his specific circumstance.