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 perhaps trade down entirely. They examine how Con Knueppel’s floor spacing and fit with LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller could offer immediate payoff in a weaker-than-ever Eastern Conference.

With Tyrese Haliburton’s injury and several Eastern stars sidelined, Charlotte has a real chance to strike while the window is open. But will they risk big on a rookie or push for veteran help like Cam Johnson?

Doug questions whether it’s time to move on from patience and take advantage of rare Eastern parity, while Walker revisits the Desmond Bane deal as a missed opportunity. Plus, updates on Tre Mann’s status and second-round center targets round out a jam-packed episode.

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Top 35 Hornets Nicknames of All-Time According to Doug Branson: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-nicknames-in-hornets-franchise

Top 35 Hornets of All-Time According to Walker Mehl: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-players-in-hornets-history

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