Locked On Hornets - Daily Podcast On The Charlotte Hornets

Hornets fans are still buzzing after the team acquired Collin Sexton, and we’re here to unpack every angle of the deal. In this episode, we explore why this might be the most exciting “build-up” trade Charlotte has made in over a decade—and how it fits into Jeff Peterson’s new vision for the franchise. We weigh the pros and cons of starting Sexton next to LaMelo Ball and discuss whether Charles Lee can maximize this high-powered but defensively questionable backcourt.

The deadline for Josh Okogie is here, and we debate if his wing defense is too import...

The Hornets did something—finally—and it was good. In this emergency episode, we break down Charlotte’s trade for Collin Sexton and a 2030 second-round pick in exchange for Yusuf Nurkic. Sexton brings juice to the backup point guard spot and a skillset the team hasn’t had since the Jeremy Lin days. But what does it mean for Tre Mann, who Jeff Peterson just called a “priority,” or for K.J. Simpson and Nick Smith Jr., who now seem squeezed out of the rotation?

We react live to the trade and go full rotation autopsy, sorting through the...

We dig into one of the smartest, most cohesive drafts we’ve seen from Charlotte in a long time. Kon Knueppel, Sion James, Ryan Kalkbrenner, Liam McNeely—it’s a group that actually makes sense together and fits what LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller need to take the next step.

We break down how Knueppel’s IQ, passing, and shooting gravity could unlock the offense, why Sion James already looks like an NBA-ready defender with a clean shooting track record, and how Kalkbrenner might be the best drop coverage big in the entire class. We also talk about th...

The Charlotte Hornets' draft night was anything but quiet — and we've got all the reaction. Jeff Peterson was working the phones, but with no deal materializing to trade down, the Hornets locked in Kon Knueppel at #4. Hosts Walker Mehl, Doug Branson, and guest Nata Edwards debate whether Knueppel's high-IQ, footwork-heavy, two-way skill set justifies the pick, especially with more explosive players like Tre Johnson and Ace Bailey still available.

Then came the shocker: Mark Williams was traded — again. This time it stuck, and the Hornets flipped him to Phoenix for the 29th pick (used on Liam McNeeley), a fu...

The 2025 NBA Draft is here and the Charlotte Hornets are the most mysterious team in the top 10. In this episode of Locked On Hornets, Walker and Doug lay out every possible scenario facing the Hornets at pick #4. Will Charlotte take VJ Edgecombe, the versatile two-way wing who fits their future, or gamble on upside with Kon Knueppel or Tre Johnson? And what if Philly shocks everyone by taking Edgecombe—do the Hornets pivot to a trade-down strategy?

Doug and Walker break down rumored trade-back options including deals involving RJ Barrett, Cam Johnson, Corey Kispert, Herb Jones, and ev...

The Charlotte Hornets are at the center of a growing NBA Draft storm. Reports suggest multiple top-5 prospects—including Ace Bailey, Tre Johnson, and VJ Edgecombe—have not worked out for the team, and rumors are swirling about Charlotte selecting Ace Bailey not to keep him, but to flip him in a post-draft deal. But is that strategy savvy... or straight-up reckless?

Walker and Doug break down the logic (and risk) of using the No. 4 pick on a player the front office doesn't intend to keep. They also lay out the growing case for VJ Edgecombe, who may...

With the NBA Draft just days away, the rumors are reaching a boiling point—and this Locked On Hornets episode dives into one of the wildest yet: ESPN linking Jeremiah Fears to Charlotte at #4. Doug and Walker weigh the shocking possibility and debate how much smoke versus fire is coming from this late draft buzz. Could Fears really be the pick, or is this just a strategic smokescreen?

The guys also react to ESPN's latest mock draft that has VJ Edgecombe going #3 to Philly, leaving the Hornets to choose between Con Knueppel, Trey Johnson, and Ace Bailey—or p...

After last year’s surprise selection of Tidjane Salaun, the Locked On Hornets crew is making sure they don’t miss another rising prospect. Doug and Walker dive deep into the Hornets’ draft “blind spots,” spotlighting under-discussed players like Carter Bryant, Collin Murray-Boyles, and Thomas Satoor. They explore how these names fit into a potential trade-back scenario that could land Charlotte multiple first-rounders.

Is Carter Bryant the defensive-minded wing this roster needs? Could Collin Murray-Boyles offer Draymond Green-like versatility down the line? And what’s the deal with Thomas Satoor’s upside as a defensive anchor? The hosts also rev...

NBA mock draft madness! Who's the top pick and where will they land? Nick Angstadt and the Locked On NBA Squad dive into a thrilling mock draft, exploring potential picks and blockbuster trades. From the 76ers eyeing Ace Bailey to the Heat chasing Kevin Durant, every move is dissected. The hosts debate Bradley Beal's impact on the Phoenix Suns and analyze the Magic's bold trade for Desmond Bane. Will these roster shakeups redefine the NBA landscape? Tune in for heated debates on draft strategies, star player valuations, and the art of NBA team building. You won't want to miss the...

Why does Nata think Knueppel is a pair of Christmas socks on draft morning? And what makes Maluach a massive overreach at center when better options like Thomas Sorber are available later? Doug and Walker debate the Hornets’ direction — whether they need cornerstone players or connective tissue to support Brandon Miller and LaMelo Ball.

But the real drama? Ace Bailey’s draft stock is getting clouded by representation issues, with rumors swirling that he’s actively trying to land in Brooklyn — and may not even want to work out for the Hornets. Plus, Queen City News reporter Mike Lacet...

In this episode of Locked On Hornets, Walker and Doug tackle the Hornets' increasingly complex draft strategy just one week out from the big night. Could Charlotte move up to secure a star like Dylan Harper? Could they slide back to grab a wing/creator like Kon Knueppel or Kasparas Jakucionis? The guys break down reports from Jake Fischer and FanDuel odds that continue to tie VJ Edgecombe to Charlotte—but also suggest Philly could snag him first. If that happens, all bets are off.

We also get into Jonathan Wasserman’s latest mock, which drops a surp...

Doug Branson and Walker Mehl dive into the latest draft buzz surrounding the Charlotte Hornets, sparked by Matt Moore’s intel that VJ Edgecombe could go to Philadelphia at #3. If that happens, the Hornets might trade back from #4—potentially with Washington—and find themselves choosing between Kon Knueppel, Tre Johnson, or even Kasparas Jakucionis. The hosts dissect mock drafts, evaluate rising and falling stock (including Ace Bailey’s), and highlight what options might offer the most long-term upside.

Matt Moore article: https://hardwoodparoxysm.substack.com/p/nba-drafttrade-rumors-hearsay-hints

Then, the focus shifts to a workout video of 2024...

Locked On’s five episode NBA Mock Draft is here. For every episode of the 2025 Locked On NBA Mock Draft search Locked On NBA Draft wherever you get your podcasts.

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On this episode of Locked On Hornets, Walker and Doug break down the stunning trade that sent Desmond Bane to Orlando for a massive haul — four unprotected first-round picks and a swap. Is this just the going rate for fringe stars now? And what does it mean for the Charlotte Hornets, a team still searching for an identity and direction? The guys discuss whether the Hornets could or should have made a similar offer and what kind of risk is actually worth taking at this stage of the rebuild.

They also get into the shifting 2025 NBA Draft la...

The Charlotte Hornets are zeroed in on one thing heading into the NBA Draft: character. According to new reporting from Rafael Barlowe, the front office is “dead set” on drafting players with strong intel and professionalism—like VJ Edgecombe and Kon Knueppel. But is this focus on character coming at the expense of top-tier talent?

Walker and Doug dissect how Edgecombe’s draft stock is skyrocketing—he even had dinner with Tyrese Maxey and Daryl Morey in Philly. If the Sixers take him at #3, should the Hornets trade up? Or stay put at #4 and choose between high-IQ shotmaker...

Is LaMelo Ball's future with the Charlotte Hornets finally set in stone? On today’s episode of Locked On Hornets, Walker and Doug dive into the sudden silence around LaMelo trade speculation and what that means for the Hornets’ offseason direction. With top point guards like Darius Garland, Jrue Holiday, and Trae Young circulating in trade rumors—and LaMelo not among them—are the Hornets finally hitting the straightaway with their franchise star?

Then, the guys pivot to Cleveland and ask: should the Hornets pursue Jarrett Allen if the Cavaliers look to shake things up? Doug makes the case...

Matt Moore dropped more draft nuggets and we’re all in on the chaos. Could VJ Edgecombe really go top three? If so, that might leave the Hornets staring directly at Ace Bailey, and that’s where the debate gets real. We break down why the Sixers could shake everything up at pick No. 3 — and how Daryl Morey’s preferences might push Charlotte into a wild choice.

Read Matt: https://hardwoodparoxysm.substack.com

We explore why Tre Johnson could be more of a Philly fit and whether his Malik Monk comp actually holds weight. Then it's on...

The Charlotte Hornets' offseason is officially underway, and the vibes are...complicated. In this episode of Locked On Hornets, we react to The Ringer’s latest Top 100 NBA players list, where LaMelo Ball drops to 49th—a steep fall from his midseason high of 25. We break down Danny Chau’s brutally honest write-up on LaMelo, which praises his talent but questions whether he can ever rise above the “good stats, bad team” label. Is the franchise doing enough to support him—or are the injuries just too much?

We also dive into our latest Locked On Network mock draft a...

The NBA Finals have arrived, and small markets are making big statements — but not Charlotte. On today’s episode of Locked On Hornets, we react to the Pacers’ wild Game 1 win and draw clear parallels between their playoff breakthrough and what the Hornets could be building toward — if they learn the right lessons.

Doug Branson and Walker Mehl debate the role of continuity, identity, and how small-to-mid-market teams like Indiana and OKC are proving it’s not about stacking stars — it’s about building smart. Could the Hornets follow suit? Or is there still too much dysfunction at the top?

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The Hornets front office is playing it close to the vest AND there is a lot of uncertainty about what the Spurs and Sixers will do above them. That's making things spicy. Doug and Walker dig into the latest report from Krysten Peek that has the Hornets silently eyeing Casper Yakubonis. Is the Illinois guard a real draft target, or a smokescreen for a potential trade-down strategy? Meanwhile, there's mounting buzz around VJ Edgecombe as a perfect cultural and on-court fit between...

Is Charlotte sticking at #4 or setting up a surprise? On this episode of Locked On Hornets, Doug Branson and Walker Mehl react to new reporting from Matt Moore and Krysten Peek that sheds light on what the Hornets might do with their top-5 pick. Could the team trade down and still grab a top shooter like Kon Knueppel? Would passing on VJ Edgecombe signal a new direction—or just smart scouting?

Moore intel: https://hardwoodparoxysm.substack.com/p/free-agency-and-draft-rumors-panic 

Peek intel: https://www.hoopshq.com/nba-draft/nba-draft-intel-latest

Doug argues that Knueppel’s elite shoot...

In this episode of Locked On Hornets, Walker and Doug dive deep into recent futures rankings for the Eastern Conference—where the Hornets surprisingly land above teams like Miami and Chicago. What’s fueling this optimism? From improved draft positioning to promising management moves, the guys lay out why Charlotte’s future might be brighter than you think.

Then, the conversation takes a sharp turn into the draft as they react to Jonathan Wasserman’s latest Bleacher Reportmock, which sends Duke center Khaman Maluach to the Hornets at #4. Is this déjà vu with Mark Williams all over again...

The Charlotte Hornets’ offseason is officially under scrutiny, and ESPN’s Bobby Marks didn’t hold back in outlining the massive to-do list for the franchise. In this episode of Locked On Hornets, Doug and Walker break down the financial mess—including the impact of the Nurkić contract, looming extension decisions, and the harsh reality of being over the salary cap with a 19-win team. Could this really be another “evaluation year”? If so, what does that mean for stars like LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges? Doug discusses a hypothetical trade with the Kings and weighs whether the team should move b...

Kevin O’Connor’s latest mock has VJ Edgecombe headed to Charlotte at pick #4—but is that really a done deal? Walker, Doug, and special guest Nata Edwards dive deep into the draft rumor mill, debate whether Edgecombe is the right pick, and discuss the possibility of a draft-day curveball involving Trey Johnson, Ace Bailey, or even a surprise trade-down for extra assets. Plus, they break down Cedric Coward’s meteoric rise and whether his limited tape is worth the gamble in the lottery.

That’s just the beginning—because it’s also time for the first round of the $...

On this episode of Locked On Hornets, Walker and Doug break down the Hornets' evolving draft strategy, focusing on the rising momentum behind VJ Edgecombe as the likely pick at #4. While Tre Johnson’s scoring talent and mid-range polish still have fans intrigued, Doug and Walker examine whether Edgecombe’s defensive impact and culture fit make him the better long-term investment. They compare Edgecombe’s playoff-ready skillset to role players thriving in the current NBA postseason, including Oklahoma City’s tenacious wings.

They also revisit a fan-favorite topic in the Big Board Time Machine, rewinding to the 2017 NBA Draf...

Should the Charlotte Hornets make one last run at bringing Chris Paul back to his hometown? On today’s episode of Locked On Hornets, we dive into the longstanding debate on CP3's potential return—this time with real context as he looks for a new team after his San Antonio stint. We weigh the pros and cons of adding a 40-year-old legend to back up LaMelo Ball, especially given the Hornets' injury history and halfcourt struggles.

Doug argues that a consistent play style is more important than nostalgia, while Walker sees value in CP3’s veteran savvy...

NOTE: There's an issue with Walker's audio when we share our screen. I've done my best to rectify it. Apologies. --db

In this episode of Locked On Hornets, Doug Branson and Walker Mehl take a deep dive into the Hornets’ glaring deficiency in the one stat that’s quietly defining postseason success: turnover differential. Building off a powerful analysis from Yhe F5 Substack, Doug reveals how the Hornets’ inability to protect the basketball or create turnovers puts them behind even teams like Portland and Utah. You’ll hear how elite teams like OKC and Indiana leverage ball control...

Is Brandon Miller the only untouchable on the Hornets roster? That’s the bold claim from a new report making the rounds—and Doug and Walker are here to break it down. They unpack what this says about LaMelo Ball’s perceived value around the league, and why Miles Bridges may be stuck in trade limbo for reasons beyond just his contract.

Then, it’s time to talk bigs. A fan-submitted trade idea sends Jarrett Allen to Charlotte—would it work? Doug and Walker debate Allen’s fit, his playoff shortcomings, and whether the Hornets should invest in a traditi...

The Pacers stunned the Knicks in Game 1 at MSG, and Locked On Hornets is here to break it all down—and look at what Charlotte can learn. Aaron Nesmith, Obi Toppin, and other “second-draft” success stories stole the spotlight. So, is this the path the Hornets need to take? Doug, Walker, and guest Nata Edwards of the Eye On College Basketball Podcast dig into the blueprint for small-market survival.

They also flash back to the 2018 NBA Draft and revisit the trade that sent Shai Gilgeous-Alexander packing in favor of Miles Bridges. What if the Hornets had kept SGA or...

LaMelo Ball’s evolution into a playoff-caliber leader is underway. Hornets head coach Charles Lee spoke with Rod Boone about LaMelo's physical and mental recovery, emphasizing the importance of strength, durability, and refining his decision-making—especially on defense and shot selection. 

Link: https://www.charlotteobserver.com/sports/charlotte-hornets/article306644951.html

Doug and Walker break down what "skill acquisition" could really mean for LaMelo this offseason and how that ties into the Hornets’ identity.

Tre Mann’s mysterious absence finally gets some clarity. Despite a long silence, social media hints and a Charles Lee update su...

Can the Oklahoma City Thunder overcome the Minnesota Timberwolves' depth in the Western Conference Finals? As the NBA playoffs heat up, the Thunder's defensive prowess faces a stern test against the Timberwolves, who have been a force in the West all season.

Join Nick Engstad, Doug Norrie, and Ryland Styles as they break down the thrilling Game 7 between the Denver Nuggets and Oklahoma City Thunder, and preview the upcoming conference finals. The discussion highlights key players like Nikola Jokic, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Tyrese Haliburton, while exploring how the NBA's Collective Bargaining Agreement is reshaping team-building strategies.

The Eastern Conference might be wide open in 2025–26, and the Charlotte Hornets could have a rare opportunity to capitalize. With Jayson Tatum likely missing the season, uncertainty in Milwaukee, and Miami and Philly facing major questions, Doug and Walker debate whether now is the time for the Hornets to go all-in. Could a team led by LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller sneak into the playoffs? What about adding a new weapon like Jonathan Kuminga via a sign-and-trade?

The duo breaks down Kuminga’s potential fit under new head coach Charles Lee, how his shot profile might clash with...

Is LaMelo Ball on the move? On this episode of Locked On Hornets, Doug, Walker, and returning guest David Walker dive into a wild scenario floated by Lonzo Ball — LaMelo to the Clippers and Dylan Harper to Charlotte. They unpack the Clippers’ potential trade assets, whether Harper and LaMelo are mutually exclusive, and why this rumor might actually make sense for both sides.

The panel debates whether Charlotte should make a bold move up to the No. 2 pick to grab Harper and what it might cost — including whether Harper is worth parting ways with LaMelo. Is this the ri...

In this episode of Locked On Hornets, Walker and Doug bring clarity to the Hornets' draft dilemma by officially declaring where they stand in the VJ Edgecombe vs. Trey Johnson vs. Ace Bailey debate. After weeks of vibes, it’s time to plant a flag — and Edgecombe may be the one checking the most boxes. From Ace Bailey’s combine confidence and questionable shot selection to Tre Johnson’s fit alongside LaMelo and Brandon Miller, this episode breaks down how each prospect meshes with Charlotte’s current core.

Doug points out that Trey Johnson might have the higher cei...

The Hornets once again face draft night disappointment, dropping to the 4th pick—but that doesn’t mean there’s no hope. On today’s episode of Locked On Hornets, Walker and Doug are joined by Nada Edwards to break down what the lottery result means for Charlotte’s future. Could VJ Edgecombe’s defensive mindset and maturity make him the perfect fit alongside LaMelo and Brandon? Or does Tre Johnson’s shooting and confidence give him the edge in this heated draft debate?

Doug shares behind-the-scenes insights from his time at the NBA Draft Combine, including what Edgecombe...

The ping pong balls didn’t bounce Charlotte’s way—again. In this emotional post-lottery episode, Walker and Doug give voice to the pain Hornets fans are feeling after the team secured the 4th overall pick while the Mavericks, Spurs, and Sixers all jumped ahead. Was it rigged?

Doug shares his firsthand experience from the draft lottery room in Chicago, including wild behind-the-scenes moments with Adam Silver and Hornets brass. Meanwhile, Walker recaps the stunned reaction at the Hornets’ lottery party at Legion Brewing—where hope quickly turned into heartbreak.

Despite the gut punch, the guys look...

It’s lottery day in Buzz City, and emotions are running high. Doug and Walker suit up in their best Larry Johnson gear and call on Commissioner Adam Silver to finally give Charlotte a break. With Cooper Flagg looming as the potential prize, the guys make the case that this is the year the Hornets not only need—but deserve—the number one pick.

They break down why this franchise has finally earned some luck, from better decision-making at the top to meaningful young pieces already in place. Doug discusses being on the ground in Chicago (sort of) an...

For the first time, we hear Miller describe nearly being shot himself and the chilling events surrounding that night in Tuscaloosa. For the first time, we hear Brandon describe nearly being shot himself and the harrowing events of that night in Tuscaloosa. We revisit the questions we had around the time of the draft and explore how this new testimony adds important context.

In the Sicko Satchel segment, a listener asks if Muggsy Bogues should be in the Hall of Fame? We reflect on what Muggsy meant to us growing up, what he meant to Hornets basketball...

Doug reveals his top 10 options for the Charlotte Hornets in this jam-packed draft-focused episode of Locked On Hornets. Cooper Flagg and Dylan Harper top the list, but what follows will surprise you—especially Doug’s takes on Tre Johnson, Kon Kneuppel, and why Ace Bailey might not be the right fit despite his tantalizing upside. Walker and Doug debate fit vs. talent, especially when it comes to LaMelo Ball's backcourt future and Brandon Miller’s role moving forward.

The conversation also heats up around the Celtics' shocking collapse in the playoffs after blowing another massive lead. Is Charle...

Nata Edwards returns for his weekly visit to help answer a big fan question: what separates a successful offseason from a failed one for the Charlotte Hornets? Walker and Doug chime in with their own criteria—whether it’s roster direction, adding shooting, or giving Charles Lee the right tools to execute his system. Plus, what’s a fair deal to bring back Tre Mann? And is there a Malik Beasley-type out there who could help right now?

Doug is also headed to Chicago for his first ever NBA Combine—and he’s absolutely locked in on one thing...