{
  "id": 9830735,
  "title": "Hornets suffer brutal blow as $98M exciting duo is likely out for season opener after injuries",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/25/hornets-suffer-brutal-blow-as-98m-exciting-duo-is-likely-out-for",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-25T20:33:33.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/hornets-suffer-brutal-blow-98m-203333276.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Charlotte Hornets have endured a significant setback before the start of the season, as they are likely to start without veteran Grant Williams and young star Kon Knueppel due to hamstring injuries. The injuries occurred during offseason on-court activities, and both players will miss the preseason. They are expected to undergo re-evaluation during the first week of the regular season. Despite these setbacks, the Hornets remain focused on their ultimate goal of making the playoffs. Grant Williams and Kon Knueppel's combined salaries are valued at $98 million, making their absence a crucial blow to the team. Both players are expected to return, infusing renewed excitement into the Charlotte Hornets' lineup.",
  "summary": "The Charlotte Hornets are an exciting team to watch for this season after barely missing the playoffs. However, they are going to start the season without two of their most reliable guys.",
  "key_points": [
    "Grant Williams and Kon Knueppel likely out for season opener",
    "Injuries sustained during offseason on-court activities",
    "Combined salaries valued at $98 million"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}