TITLE: Knueppel Seeks Defensive Spark; Morant Sidelined Again; Leonard’s Status Uncertain
SLUG: knueppel-defensive-goals-morant-still-out-leonard-ankle
CONTENT:
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Charlotte Hornets rookie wing Kon Knueppel said he is concentrating on expanding his defensive footprint as he nears the midpoint of his first NBA season.
“I tend to be where I’m supposed to be, keep my guy in front of me,” the 20-year-old told the Charlotte Observer. “But can I get a few more deflections? That comes with anticipation and understanding what’s going to happen before it happens.”
The fourth pick in last year’s draft logged 1,189 minutes in 39 games at Duke and has already played 1,186 minutes through 36 professional games. Knueppel noted that his body is holding up well, crediting the training staff and proactive recovery despite “nicks and bruises.”
Grizzlies Rule Out Morant Once More
The Memphis Grizzlies announced that guard Ja Morant will miss his fourth consecutive game Friday against the Oklahoma City Thunder because of a right calf contusion. Morant had been listed as questionable before each of the previous three games before being downgraded to out.
Rookie wing Cedric Coward (sprained right ankle) is questionable after sitting out the past two-and-a-half games. Guard Vince Williams Jr. remains questionable as he manages patellar tendinitis in his left knee; he has missed nine of the team’s last 10 contests.
Leonard Questionable for Clippers
Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard suffered a right ankle sprain during the third quarter of Wednesday’s loss in New York and is listed as questionable for Friday’s matchup in Brooklyn. Leonard previously missed 10 consecutive games in November with right foot and ankle issues and has appeared in 26 games this season as the club continues to monitor his workload.
Source: Hoops Wire
