After losing consecutive games after the All-Star break, the Hornets hoped to get their second straight win Tuesday night, having defeated the Washington Wizards on the road Sunday.
Although Chicago was able to stay competitive with Charlotte in the first half, it quickly turned into a blowout during the third quarter, as the Hornets outscored the Bulls by 26 in the frame.
That led to a 32-point victory while also holding Chicago to fewer than 100 points.
Although Brandon Miller led the team with 23 points, the headlines once again belonged to Kon Knueppel. Knueppel scored 21 points and knocked down three three-pointers to become the fastest player in NBA history to reach 200 made threes.
Knueppel also became the 15th player in history to make 200 three-pointers before the 60 game mark.
Following the game, Hornets head coach Charles Lee was quick to praise Knueppel, crediting the rookie for changing Charlotte’s culture this season.
“It’s exciting. It’s refreshing. It’s what elevates our whole culture when you have a guy that’s that good but that humble, no ego. It becomes contagious throughout your whole organization and environment,” said Lee.
As a rookie, Knueppel has certainly been a catalyst for success. Already with 28 wins on the season, the Hornets have won more games this year than each of the past three seasons.
Not only that, but the Hornets are firmly in the hunt for a playoff berth which would mark their first appearance in 10 seasons.
Charlotte will look to continue that push in their next matchup against the Indiana Pacers Thursday.