Locked On Hornets - Daily Podcast On The Charlotte Hornets

Who are the BEST and WORST teams in the NBA heading into the 2026-27 season? With opening night just around the corner, Locked On NBA Daily reveals its official 30-team NBA Power Rankings, organized into S-through-F tiers! Wes Goldberg, Matt Moore and Haize unveil rankings voted on by hosts from all 30 Locked On NBA team podcasts, debating the biggest surprises, overrated contenders and underrated playoff hopefuls. The Oklahoma City Thunder, San Antonio Spurs and defending champion New York Knicks headline the exclusive S Tier. But do Victor Wembanyama's Spurs belong alongside the NBA's elite? Meanwhile, the Denver Nuggets, Los...

It came down to the buzzer, but the Charlotte Hornets got it done. Brandon Miller agreed to a five-year, $209 million rookie scale extension less than an hour before Monday's deadline, and Doug Branson and Walker Mehl are here to explain what it means. The number lands $1 million above Amen Thompson's deal in Houston, and that matters. It tells you the Hornets see Miller as a first or second option, a future All-NBA talent, and a pillar of this roster. He's been a model citizen, he's averaged 20 points in each of the last two seasons, and the only real question...

Walker is back and flying solo! Good news: Hornets preseason is over! Bad news: They lost to Memphis 117-98 to end the session. What were the positives? Walker goes over the performances from the rookies and why they nailed their dress rehearsal, even if the team played poorly overall. Plus, why did the Hornets decide to cut Pat Connaughton over Tidjane Salaun? Was it the right decision?

With Moussa Diabate held out by a knee injury the team is calling day-to-day, Hannes Steinbach got real minutes and made the most of them, finishing with 19 points and 10 rebounds...

The Charlotte Hornets got a real measuring stick in Boston, and the 114-93 loss showed exactly where this roster stands before opening night. Doug Branson walks through what this week taught us, starting with a problem that won't go away: real size. Mitchell Robinson and Neemias Queta controlled the paint, Boston won the points in the paint 56-20, and thirty turnovers made a tough night worse. Moussa Diabate is stronger, but the center spot is still the biggest weakness on this roster, and in a playoff series it's an easy one for opponents to attack.

Then it's...

The Charlotte Hornets took their first road trip of the preseason, and the Boston Celtics sent them home with a 114-93 loss. Preseason caveats apply. Injuries are piling up, and Coby White and Kon Knueppel weren't available. But this one raised real questions.

Charlotte turned the ball over 30 times, and Boston scored 27 points off those mistakes. The Celtics won the paint 56 to 20. Defensive miscommunication left Jayson Tatum wide open from three, and Derrick White got to the rim almost whenever he wanted. Without a reliable way to score inside, the Hornets leaned on the three-point line to...

On today's episode of Locked On Hornets, hosts Doug Branson and Nata Edwards tackle the burning question every Charlotte Hornets fan is asking: should the front office offer Brandon Miller an extension that could rival or even surpass Amen Thompson's deal? With contract rumors swirling, and experts split on Miller’s worth, the guys dissect the biggest risk factors, performance updates, and financial implications facing the franchise ahead of the looming deadline.

But the off-court drama isn't the only headline. Doug and Nata check in on the injury front—especially the potential returns for Kon Knueppel and Coby...

Brandon Miller is back in the lineup, and the Charlotte Hornets wasted no time putting him front and center in their second preseason matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks. Host Doug Branson spotlights Miller’s confident return following a shin injury and shoulder surgery, noting his impressive 18-point performance and leadership on the floor despite a limited offseason. The show highlights how Miller’s shot creation and passing spark optimism for his Most Improved Player odds, and discusses the improvements in his physical play and defensive presence.

The Hornets’ depth takes center stage as Doug Branson outlines key perfor...

This episode recaps everything Charlotte Hornets fans learned from the opening of preseason, focusing on how experience and new additions are reshaping expectations. The conversation highlights the importance Hornets leadership places on the playoff-tested veterans added via trade, and how their presence brought needed calm in early preseason play—despite a lopsided loss and a long injury list including Brandon Miller, Grant Williams, Coby White, and Kon Knueppel. Attention shifts to Naz Reid, whose debut signaled that he's ready to thrive as a starter and bring toughness this franchise needs, even as social media buzzed about his demeanor.

...

Could Brandon Miller be the next All-NBA star for the Charlotte Hornets? In this episode, hear Zach Lowe’s headline-making prediction about Miller’s ceiling and the intriguing comparison to Jayson Tatum that has Hornets fans buzzing. Explore what it would take for Miller to reach All-NBA status this season, including a statistical analysis of his pick-and-roll play, offensive growth areas, and opportunities with LaMelo Ball sidelined.

Preseason means rookie hype, and this podcast tackles the top three storylines heading into the second exhibition game. Find out why Hannes Steinbach’s playing time is under the microscope and ho...

Is the Charlotte Hornets’ revamped roster truly deeper, or is the bench just better disguised? In this episode, Walker Mehl assesses the franchise’s much-discussed overhaul—highlighting the veteran arrivals of Naz Reid, Grayson Allen, Royce O’Neale, and Dennis Schroder—and explains why their playoff experience could impact more than just the win column. With the ascent of Kon Knueppel and the healthy return of Brandon Miller, the path for first-year players like Hannes Steinbach and Christian Anderson suddenly looks steeper this season.

Walker Mayo discusses why Charlotte’s latest moves might finally give the Hornets a true suppo...

Basketball is back, but the Charlotte Hornets’ preseason debut brought plenty of drama and a tough 124-90 loss to the Brooklyn Nets. Before tip-off even arrived, the Hornets were hit with a major avalanche of injuries. Brandon Miller was ruled out with a shin contusion, Coby White suffered a calf strain, and key figures like Kon Knueppel, Christian Anderson, and Grant Williams were all forced to watch from the sidelines.

Despite the missing star power, there were plenty of new faces making their Charlotte debuts. Naz Reid posted 13 points and showcased his perimeter versatility, while Grayson Allen de...

Charlotte Hornets’ preseason plans take a hit as starting point guard Coby White suffers a recurring left calf strain, raising concerns about his long-term durability and the team’s early-season outlook. With White ruled out for all preseason games, can Dennis Schröder and rookie Christian Anderson step up to keep the Hornets’ offense running smoothly? The conversation focused on injury history, minutes management, and the delicate balance between caution and urgency in returning a key player to NBA action.

Analysis covers the implications for the lineup rotations, questions about Charlotte’s medical protocols, and the potential ripple effects o...

This episode was recorded before the Coby White injury News

Charlotte Hornets fans, the wait is over! In this jam-packed episode, Walker Mehl, Doug Branson, and Evan Hale team up to tackle all the buzz ahead of the Hornets’ preseason debut. The show kicks off with the brand new “Swarm or Swat” segment, as the crew debates the hot topics swirling around Buzz City—from whether Kon Knueppel or Brandon Miller will cement himself as the Hornets’ top prospect in national rankings, to who will step up as mentors in the locker room.

The hosts a...

Preseason basketball is back and the Charlotte Hornets are stirring up excitement and speculation. Host Doug Branson shares the top three reasons to watch the upcoming preseason games, placing the spotlight on Naz Reid’s transition from sixth man to potential starter, Brandon Miller’s offseason muscle gains, and the challenge of making the Hornets’ offense function smoothly without LaMelo Ball on the floor. Find out whether Reid’s offense can keep pace with his new responsibilities and if Miller’s reported 10-pound weight gain translates to a more assertive style of play.

The episode also opens the famed...

The Charlotte Hornets are gearing up for a preseason packed with intrigue, as players across the roster battle for standing and new leadership sets the tone. On today’s episode, the spotlight shines brightly on Brandon Miller: can last year’s highly-touted pick make a standout statement and establish himself as “the dude” with Kon Knueppel sidelined? We discuss why this preseason isn’t just about fringe roster hopefuls, but about Miller’s potential leap and how players like Ceylon James face pivotal moments after a rocky Summer League showing.

Versatility is the Hornets’ new mantra, but is that enough...

Charlotte Hornets training camp has kicked off in Charleston, and the competition is already at a fever pitch. This episode explores the most fascinating camp battles across the roster, focusing on standout skirmishes at the center spot with Moussa Diabate, Hannes Steinbach, and Ryan Kalkbrenner each fighting for meaningful minutes. Attention shifts to the wings, where the rapid progression of Liam McNeeley and the defensive grit of Seon James are forcing tough decisions for Coach Charles Lee.

Listeners get detailed insight into how player development, offensive skill sets, and perimeter defense are shaping the team’s new id...

Charlotte Hornets Media Day delivered intriguing storylines, and this episode covers all the buzz. Walker Mehl and Doug Branson weigh in on Coby White’s ascension to starting point guard after LaMelo Ball's departure, highlighting how White’s honest remarks reveal a player energized by new responsibility and the challenge of orchestrating a deep, versatile roster. Listeners will gain perspective on how White’s new role, unique compared to his previous stints in Chicago and Charlotte, could shape the Hornets’ offensive identity this season.

The episode doesn’t sidestep front office moves either, with sharp analysis of the Rob Di...

Hornets Media Day was packed with updates and big revelations as Charlotte gears up for the new season. Brandon Miller headlines the news, sharing that he’s been cleared for full contact for three weeks, bringing an end to any lingering concerns about his shoulder. His candidness about last year’s pain—pain he refused to use as an excuse—gives fans a new appreciation for his toughness and dedication. Kon Knueppel adds important context to his hamstring injury, explaining that it happened three weeks ago and sharing optimism about his regular season availability. The Hornets medical staff is keeping...

Walker Mehl goes solo to discuss Eric Collins, Dell Curry, and Shannon Spake returning as your Charlotte Hornets broadcast team! Why was it important to bring back such an important group? Walker goes through the importance of how we consume Hornets basketball and more importantly, how the organization recognizes that. Finally, Walker dissects all of the varying opinions over Brandon Miller’s potential contract extension.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It’s another wild day for Hornets basketball fans as the Charlotte Hornets shake up their roster and make headlines with sweeping moves, all while rolling out fan-first broadcasting news. Host Walker Mehl and Doug Branson react to reports of Buddy Hield and Ryan Nembhard being waived shortly after the team acquired them in a trade for Dorian Finney-Smith, explaining what these moves mean for the team’s roster flexibility, future draft capital, and trade exceptions. The conversation unpacks why the Hornets appear laser-focused on creating options for bigger future moves rather than immediate roster upgrades, with a humorous lens...

The Charlotte Hornets just shook up their roster again, finalizing a headline-grabbing swap with the Atlanta Hawks that brings veteran sharpshooter Buddy Hield and playmaking youngster Ryan Nembhard to the Queen City in exchange for Dorian Finney-Smith—and a little extra cash. Doug Branson examines how this late-offseason trade fits into the Hornets’ clear strategy to assemble not just more depth, but NBA-ready talent 1 through 15 on the roster. What does the addition of Hield actually mean, given his age and skill set, and how could Nembhard’s pure point guard style complement the current mix behind Coby White and Dennis...

Charlotte’s front office is making big decisions, and the future of their young core hinges on what happens next with Brandon Miller’s contract extension. As the Thompson twins lock in massive rookie deals—Amen at $208 million and Ausar at $155 million—the hosts debate where Miller should land on this lucrative spectrum, taking a hard look at his place among young NBA stars and how his injury history could affect negotiations.

But the day’s news doesn’t stop there: as Hornets management reportedly engage in trade talks around acquiring Buddy Hield for Dorian Finney-Smith, fans are left to...

In this episode of Locked On Hornets, Doug Branson opens up the “Sicko Satchel” to answer the Hornets community's most burning questions. What must Kon Knueppel and Brandon Miller do to become Charlotte’s next All-NBA stars? Doug examines their elite scoring talent, the growth each needs to show on both ends of the floor, and what it will really take for either to ascend to first-option status on a playoff team. He also weighs the All-Star potential of newcomers like Naz Reid and considers whether Charlotte could be represented multiple times on an All-NBA roster if everything clicks this y...

For the first time since 1987, the Charlotte Hornets will open their season without a dedicated beat reporter after Rod Boone’s abrupt exit from the Charlotte Observer. On today’s episode, Walker Mehl and Doug Branson take stock of what this means for fans, local journalism, and the wider NBA media landscape. The ripple effects of McClatchy’s sweeping layoffs have all but cleared out traditional sports coverage in Charlotte, and the hosts unpack the harsh reality facing newspapers and digital outlets alike in an age of shrinking ad revenue and growing corporate control.

The conversation zeroes in on the...

Get ready for a jam-packed episode of Locked On Hornets as we tackle some of the hottest offseason storylines in Charlotte. The rumor mill keeps turning with fresh buzz around the Hornets’ interest in Domantas Sabonis. Walker Mehl and Doug Branson weigh in on whether Charlotte is likely to meet Sacramento’s asking price, what assets the Hornets can (or can’t) afford to give up, and why Sabonis could be a critical missing piece—if acquired at the right cost.

We’re also unpacking big news for fans: the Hornets’ new streaming partnership with DAZN. Find out how this...

The conversation focused on the Charlotte Hornets’ remarkable leap in ESPN’s Future Power Rankings, rising from 23rd to an impressive 7th overall. One concept discussed was how recent front office decisions, including key trades and strong draft picks like Brandon Miller, Kon Knueppel, and second-round surprises such as Seon James and Ryan Kalkbrenner, have fueled optimism for the years ahead. A key theme that emerged was the importance of smart asset management, financial flexibility, and avoiding excuses related to market size, as the hosts compared Charlotte’s rise to similarly positioned franchises like Oklahoma City and San Antonio.

T...

With the dust far from settled on the Charlotte Hornets’ blockbuster trade sending LaMelo Ball to Minnesota, today’s episode sorts through the chaos of opposing national and local projections for the franchise. Some believe the Hornets have set themselves up for playoff contention despite losing a star, while others question if the combination of Coby White, Naz Reid, and the team’s improved depth can fill LaMelo’s shoes. Hosts Walker Mehl and Doug Branson weigh the thought-provoking argument surrounding superstar impact, team “center of gravity,” and whether players like Brandon Miller or Kon Knueppel can step forward as franchise...

LaMelo Ball’s time in Charlotte is over, and with his trade to Minnesota, the Hornets have set their course on a new era. In this episode, Walker Mehl and Doug Branson unpack all the emotions and implications of LaMelo’s high-profile departure, from the surprising reactions inside the organization to what it reveals about management’s perspective on their former star. They examine Coby White’s elevation to the lead guard position and discuss how his playstyle could bring a seismic shift to the team’s offense, dissecting the strengths he brings compared to LaMelo—particularly his ability to draw cont...

The trade winds are blowing around the Charlotte Hornets, as fresh rumors link Domantas Sabonis to the Queen City. Are the Hornets ready to pull the trigger on a blockbuster, and does Sabonis really move the needle for this offense-first roster? The conversation heats up as reports from NBA Trade Rumors claim a Sabonis deal could center on Grayson Allen, Grant Williams, and multiple first-round picks. The hosts weigh in on the legitimacy of these rumors, dive into the motivations behind the chatter, and examine what adding a high-caliber passer like Sabonis could mean for a team looking to...

Brandon Miller’s contract extension looms large for the Charlotte Hornets, and this episode unpacks everything fueling those negotiations. With Amen Thompson’s recent $208 million rookie scale contract and Alperen Sengun’s framework hovering as benchmarks, hosts Walker Mehl and Doug Branson tackle the essential question: should Miller receive a max deal or something closer to fair market value? Doug Branson raises the difficulty of projecting future player value in Charlotte, especially in a small market where securing young talent is paramount and every contract figure can alter a franchise’s direction. The discussion weaves in the Hornets’ recent moves—bett...

The Charlotte Hornets are entering a crossroads, and this episode breaks down the major questions swirling around the franchise. With Amen Thompson and Alperen Sengun inking massive rookie extensions in Houston, all eyes turn to what that means for Brandon Miller—and whether the Charlotte front office will follow the Rockets' pragmatic approach or take their cues from Detroit’s restricted free agency handling of Jalen Duren. The latest health updates on Brandon Miller and what fans should really expect for his return are examined, including what Rod Boone’s recent reporting reveals. Nada Edwards joins the show for a cand...

The energy is electric as the Charlotte Hornets gear up for another season and fans wonder—could this finally be the year the team earns another All-Star nod? This episode, Walker Mail, Walker Mehl, and Evan Hale bring the heat with a satchel full of bold Hornets predictions. From rookie Hannes Steinbach’s chance at an All-Rookie Team spot to Brandon Miller at the top of the Most Improved Player odds, every scenario is up for debate. Listen as the possibility of Kon Knueppel and Miller both earning All-Star spots is dissected, including what it would take for this yout...

Could the Charlotte Hornets be on the brink of landing the league’s next disgruntled superstar? Join us for an in-depth discussion as Walker Mail and Doug Branson scan the NBA landscape for the star player most likely to make a trade request and debate which names make sense for the Hornets’ future. The conversation kicks off with Nikola Jokic’s situation in Denver—can the reigning MVP really become available, and what would the cost be for Charlotte to bring him to the Queen City?

The episode also features a lively back-and-forth on possible targets like Tyrese M...

With pivotal changes on the roster and a renewed sense of excitement, the Charlotte Hornets are entering a season ripe with questions and possibilities. Today, the spotlight is on Naz Reid, recently named one of The Ringer’s breakout candidates for 2026-27, as Walker Mail and Doug Branson assess how his unique skill set could dramatically expand offensive options. What happens when Naz Reid is unleashed as a starter or small-ball 5? The duo discusses the ripple effects of versatile lineups, five-out spacing, and the potential for the Hornets to become not just a “League Pass” team—but a true contende...

On today’s episode of Locked On Hornets, it’s a wide-ranging show that covers both breaking news and classic debates close to every Charlotte fan’s heart. The show opens with the latest on Brandon Miller’s recovery—the young star addresses his recent shoulder surgery and his missing time, revealing just how ready he is to play at 100% for the first time in a Hornets uniform. With extension talks looming, we discuss whether the Hornets should lock Miller in before the season, or if another “prove it” year is on the table, especially as his contract year could redefine...

The latest episode of Locked On Hornets takes listeners behind the franchise’s most pivotal offseason moments through the lens of the Hornets’ Real Access feature. Walker Mehl and Doug Branson dissect what “real access” actually means in the modern NBA, reviewing the surprising amount of insight into the team’s inner workings—from ownership’s approach to collaboration in the war room, to the emotional journey of trading franchise cornerstone LaMelo Ball. The episode walks through the high-stakes, consensus-driven decision-making process involving Rick Schnall, Gabe Plotkin, and a front office stacked with long-standing relationships and executive experience.

Listeners ge...

The Charlotte Hornets are making headlines across the NBA with a revamped roster and an increasingly respected front office. Five Hornets—including rising stars Coby White, Naz Reid, Kon Knueppel, Brandon Miller, and fan favorite Moussa Diabate—earn spots on The Ringer’s Top 100, signaling the league-wide appreciation for the team’s depth after the blockbuster LaMelo Ball trade. The conversation explores how Charlotte’s approach mirrors the Atlanta Hawks’ fabled days of All-Star depth and why a group of solid contributors might eclipse the need for a single superstar in today’s NBA.

Discussion shifts to the executives...

Charlotte’s point guard landscape gets a major overhaul as Dennis Schroder joins the Hornets, bringing proven NBA experience and a much-needed adult presence to the second unit. On this episode, Walker Mehl and Doug Branson unpack Schroder’s fit behind emerging starter Coby White, discuss how this transition stacks up to last year’s point guard carousel, and question whether the trade signals a win-now approach or a longer-term rebuild. Hear the details of the Cleveland trade—including the backstory on why cash was accepted instead of pick compensation—and what this means for Charlotte’s roster flexibility moving forwa...

The Charlotte Hornets remain aggressive this offseason, securing veteran point guard Dennis Schroder in a surprise trade with the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for Tre Mann. This episode explores exactly why the front office targeted Schroder to solidify a backup point guard spot that saw a revolving door of experiments last year. With his ferocious point-of-attack defense and proven ability to organize a half-court offense, Schroder brings much-needed stability and veteran leadership to the second unit. 

Beyond the Xs and Os, this sudden trade represents a fundamental shift in the organization's culture. Head coach Charles Lee recently s...

The wait is over for the Charlotte Hornets' schedule release, bringing a mix of exciting opportunities and grueling stretches. This episode explores the newly announced dates, examining the crucial early-season stretch that begins on the road against the Brooklyn Nets before a quick home opener against the Atlanta Hawks. The NBA schedule makers handed Charlotte thirteen back-to-backs and thirty-six weekend games, creating some unique advantages and improved pacing compared to last year's slate. However, a punishing ten-game road stretch in January looms large and could ultimately define the team's postseason aspirations.

The conversation also shifts toward the...