Cooper Flagg put on a Sweet 16 showcase for the ages, dropping 30 points with elite two-way play that left no doubt about his top draft status. Doug Branson and Walker Mehl ask the biggest question in Charlotte: if the Hornets land the number one overall pick, would you trade it—even for a haul? The guys weigh what it would take (Brandon Miller? Three firsts?) to move the needle and why the answer is probably still “no.”

Finally, the boys ask a tougher question—what if Charlotte doesn’t get the top pick? Should they trade up to get Flagg, even if it means surrendering major pieces? And what’s the history of trading up for #1 anyway—does it work out?

Whether it’s Flagg-mania or fit debates, this episode is a must-listen for draft junkies and Hornets faithful alike.

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Get Doug's gamenotes, special articles and a podcast on Hornets history at the Every Hornets Boxscore substack: everyhornetsboxscore.com

Get more Walker on Wes and Walker 12-3pm on WFNZ 92.7 FM

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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Offer valid from 9:00 AM PT through 11:59 PM PT after a 50 point performance in any game during the NBA season on orders placed at participating merchant locations. Valid only in the United States. Maximum value of discount is $10.00. Discount applies to subtotal only; does not apply to fees, taxes, and gratuity. Not valid for pickup. Limit one per person. Not valid for the purchase of alcohol. Fees, taxes, and gratuity still apply. Must have an active DashPass account. Use promo code NBA50 to redeem. See further terms and conditions at https://drd.sh/8ONpZP/.

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FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

The Charlotte Hornets officially broke ground on the Novant Health Performance Center, and the Locked On Hornets crew was on hand to take it all in. From legendary Hornets like Muggsy Bogues and Kemba Walker to current decision-makers and media, the Uptown event was buzzing with optimism. We talk through what this $150 million investment actually means for the team’s ability to attract talent. Can a premier practice facility really lure free agents, or is it more of a symbol of organizational commitment?

Doug shares his take on why the Performance Center matters—and how it's already helping shift the franchise’s “cheap” reputation. We also relive some hilarious weight room stories, from Kemba’s days of cramped lifting to Walker’s surprise interaction with Kenny “The Gap Man” Gattison and a side convo about the saltwater tanks of Boston.

Then it’s MOCK DRAFT time. Doug simulates the lottery and, well… ouch. The Hornets slide to sixth, and we talk about one potential pick: Lithuanian point guard Kasparas Jakucionis. He's getting comparisons to Lonzo Ball, can the Hornets justify the fit next to LaMelo Ball?

It was a loss, but was it a good loss? The Charlotte Hornets fell to the Orlando Magic 111–104, but Doug and Walker argue this might’ve been an "ethical" loss with long-term benefits. Charles Lee kept rookies like Nick Smith Jr. and Tidjane Salaun in the game during crunch time, prioritizing development over a meaningless win. The guys debate whether that’s the right move and praise the young core’s fight despite some late-game struggles and more abysmal officiating.

LaMelo Ball showed real poise and aggression, finishing with 21 points on 13 shots—despite getting hammered without a whistle. But should Charles Lee finally get a tech and stand up for his star? Doug thinks so, and the hosts discuss how coaches send messages to officials with more than just their words.

Doug also shares his latest mock draft pick, revealing why he’s IN on Ace Bailey—despite his inconsistencies—and what makes this draft so tricky for Charlotte. They also go full Severance mode with a game of "Innie or Outie" to decide which players they're irrational buying in on and who still needs to prove something.

Finally, Walker reports live from the groundbreaking of the Hornets' new 160,000 sq. ft. practice facility. Will this new investment finally translate into wins, or is it just window dressing? It’s all here on a jam-packed Locked On Hornets.

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Get Doug's gamenotes, special articles and a podcast on Hornets history at the Every Hornets Boxscore substack: everyhornetsboxscore.com

Get more Walker on Wes and Walker 12-3pm on WFNZ 92.7 FM

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

📲 Follow Locked On Hornets on Twitter

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SKIMS

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OpenPhone

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Door Dash

They Swoosh, You Save: when any player scores 50 or more points in a game during the 24/25 NBA regular season, DashPass members save 50% on an order, up to $10 off with promo code NBA50. 50% Off 1 Order (Up to $10 Off)

Offer valid from 9:00 AM PT through 11:59 PM PT after a 50 point performance in any game during the NBA season on orders placed at participating merchant locations. Valid only in the United States. Maximum value of discount is $10.00. Discount applies to subtotal only; does not apply to fees, taxes, and gratuity. Not valid for pickup. Limit one per person. Not valid for the purchase of alcohol. Fees, taxes, and gratuity still apply. Must have an active DashPass account. Use promo code NBA50 to redeem. See further terms and conditions at https://drd.sh/8ONpZP/.

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FanDuel

Right now, new customers can get TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA.

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The Locked On NBA Squad Show brings together hosts from various NBA team podcasts to discuss the latest league happenings. In this episode, the panel debates the relevance of March basketball, analyzes playoff positioning, and evaluates recent team performances. They focus on the Denver Nuggets' struggles, the Houston Rockets' surprising success, and potential playoff matchups. The hosts also engage in playful banter about team rivalries and discuss which NBA franchises should be "relegated" for poor performance or tanking. Throughout the conversation, the panel offers insights on player impacts, team strategies, and the unpredictable nature of the upcoming playoffs.

0:00 Intro: March basketball and NBA discussions

5:02 Lakers' defense and playoff potential

10:37 Nuggets' playoff chances and matchups

16:08 Houston Rockets' strengths and weaknesses

21:53 Mavericks' playoff push and Anthony Davis

26:26 Relegating NBA teams to G League

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Introducing Can the BYU Cougars upset the Alabama Crimson Tide in the NCAA Tournament? from Locked On College Basketball.

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Are we going to see ANY upsets in the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Men's tournament? Can BYU stun Alabama?

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DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].

With the season winding down, the Charlotte Hornets have one final stretch to evaluate their young core—and it’s a mixed bag. On today’s episode, Doug Branson and Walker Mehl dive into the trend lines for LaMelo Ball, Miles Bridges, Mark Williams, and Nick Smith Jr. LaMelo’s post-All-Star numbers are trending down, and Doug questions whether head coach Charles Lee is intentionally keeping him out of clutch minutes—or if it’s something more concerning. Is the team tanking smart, or just mismanaging?

Meanwhile, Miles Bridges has cooled off from his impressive March stretch, but he’s still showing signs of a more complete player. The guys discuss whether his stock can rise again and if he fits the Hornets’ long-term vision or becomes a key trade chip.

Mark Williams is drawing praise from Walker, who sees growth in defense, hustle, and confidence—plus he’s making smarter decisions and showing signs of vocal leadership. But can he maintain that against upcoming physical matchups?

Nick Smith Jr. may be the biggest wildcard. Getting heavy minutes, his metrics are climbing—can he turn Doug from skeptic to believer?

Plus, Doug drops another mock draft gem and breaks down why VJ Edgecombe might be more than just a trendy name. All that, and a look ahead to a final matchup with the Magic.

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Get Doug's gamenotes, special articles and a podcast on Hornets history at the Every Hornets Boxscore substack: everyhornetsboxscore.com

Get more Walker on Wes and Walker 12-3pm on WFNZ 92.7 FM

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

📲 Follow Locked On Hornets on Twitter

Locked On Hornets https://twitter.com/LockedOnHornets

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Doug Branson https://twitter.com/DougBransonLOH

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WayFair

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SKIMS

Shop SKIMS Mens at SKIMS.com/lockedonnba. Let them know we sent you! After you place your order, select "podcast" in the survey and select our show in the dropdown menu that follows.

OpenPhone

The #1 business phone system designed to help you keep your work and personal life separate. Right now, OpenPhone is offering 20% off your first 6 months when you go to OpenPhone.com/LOCKEDONNBA. and if you have existing numbers with another service, OpenPhone will port them over at no extra charge!

Door Dash

They Swoosh, You Save: when any player scores 50 or more points in a game during the 24/25 NBA regular season, DashPass members save 50% on an order, up to $10 off with promo code NBA50. 50% Off 1 Order (Up to $10 Off)

Offer valid from 9:00 AM PT through 11:59 PM PT after a 50 point performance in any game during the NBA season on orders placed at participating merchant locations. Valid only in the United States. Maximum value of discount is $10.00. Discount applies to subtotal only; does not apply to fees, taxes, and gratuity. Not valid for pickup. Limit one per person. Not valid for the purchase of alcohol. Fees, taxes, and gratuity still apply. Must have an active DashPass account. Use promo code NBA50 to redeem. See further terms and conditions at https://drd.sh/8ONpZP/.

Monarch Money

Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year.

FanDuel

Right now, new customers can get TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

The Hornets took another tough loss, this time at the hands of the Miami Heat, 122-105. Doug Branson and Walker Mehl break down what went wrong—starting with LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges going a combined 2-for-17 from three. Despite that, Nick Smith Jr. put together a promising performance with 19 points and some early hot shooting, prompting a bigger question: should the Hornets prioritize giving Nick more run next season or lean on Seth Curry’s microwave offense?

Doug also shines a light on Mark Williams’ energy and hustle early in the game, noting how he continues to set the tone even when the team can’t follow through. The duo also takes a look at Moussa’s sneaky-good impact in short minutes and debates the logic behind putting rookie Tidjane Salaun on an island against a red-hot Andrew Wiggins.

In the second half of the episode, Cooper Flagg fever takes over. Doug and Walker discuss his tournament dominance, his “ass-kicker” mentality, and why an anonymous NBA executive’s quote—"either you match his energy or everyone will see you're not about winning"—should have Hornets fans dreaming. Plus, Doug unveils the first of 90 days of mock drafts, starting with Baylor’s VJ Edgecombe going to Charlotte at No. 3.

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Get Doug's gamenotes, special articles and a podcast on Hornets history at the Every Hornets Boxscore substack: everyhornetsboxscore.com

Get more Walker on Wes and Walker 12-3pm on WFNZ 92.7 FM

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

📲 Follow Locked On Hornets on Twitter

Locked On Hornets https://twitter.com/LockedOnHornets

Walker Mehl https://twitter.com/WalkerMehl

Doug Branson https://twitter.com/DougBransonLOH

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WayFair

After the holiday hustle, there’s nothing like giving your home a little TLC. Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home.

SKIMS

Shop SKIMS Mens at SKIMS.com/lockedonnba. Let them know we sent you! After you place your order, select "podcast" in the survey and select our show in the dropdown menu that follows.

OpenPhone

The #1 business phone system designed to help you keep your work and personal life separate. Right now, OpenPhone is offering 20% off your first 6 months when you go to OpenPhone.com/LOCKEDONNBA. and if you have existing numbers with another service, OpenPhone will port them over at no extra charge!

Door Dash

They Swoosh, You Save: when any player scores 50 or more points in a game during the 24/25 NBA regular season, DashPass members save 50% on an order, up to $10 off with promo code NBA50. 50% Off 1 Order (Up to $10 Off)

Offer valid from 9:00 AM PT through 11:59 PM PT after a 50 point performance in any game during the NBA season on orders placed at participating merchant locations. Valid only in the United States. Maximum value of discount is $10.00. Discount applies to subtotal only; does not apply to fees, taxes, and gratuity. Not valid for pickup. Limit one per person. Not valid for the purchase of alcohol. Fees, taxes, and gratuity still apply. Must have an active DashPass account. Use promo code NBA50 to redeem. See further terms and conditions at https://drd.sh/8ONpZP/.

Monarch Money

Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year.

FanDuel

Right now, new customers can get TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

The Hornets grabbed an impressive 115-98 win over the New York Knicks, and we’re breaking down every angle. Mark Williams delivered one of his most complete performances of the season with 19 points, 14 rebounds, and 3 blocks—bringing relentless energy on both ends. LaMelo Ball reminded everyone why he’s a star, controlling the tempo, dishing out 8 assists, and scoring 25 points with poise and discipline. Doug Branson says this might have been one of LaMelo’s most complete games since the All-Star break. We talk about the defensive game plan that slowed down Karl-Anthony Towns and how Mark Williams, despite a few technical issues, helped set the tone early with his intensity and offensive rebounding. Nick Smith Jr. also turned heads with 13 points and 3 assists in a confident offensive outing, though there’s still plenty of room for growth on the defensive end. Doug also hits on Diabate’s return, Josh Green’s ongoing struggles, and how everyone—not just Miles Bridges—helped light the “flashlight” to guide this win. Then, we transition into mock draft season: Doug and Walker react to the Hornets dropping in the lottery simulation and explore potential forward fits like VJ Edgecombe and Tre Johnson. What kind of wing does this team really need next to Brandon Miller? 

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Become an official member of the Locked On Hornets Sicko Brigade and get Hornets news, rumors and pictures of Byron Mullens sent directly to your phone via Subtext (14 Day Free Trial): https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonhornets

Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More

🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA

Get Doug's gamenotes, special articles and a podcast on Hornets history at the Every Hornets Boxscore substack: everyhornetsboxscore.com

Get more Walker on Wes and Walker 12-3pm on WFNZ 92.7 FM

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

📲 Follow Locked On Hornets on Twitter

Locked On Hornets https://twitter.com/LockedOnHornets

Walker Mehl https://twitter.com/WalkerMehl

Doug Branson https://twitter.com/DougBransonLOH

Your favorite podcast now has a newsletter! In One-stop for ultimate team and league coverage delivered right to your in box. Sign up for free now, at lockedondaily.com.

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WayFair

After the holiday hustle, there’s nothing like giving your home a little TLC. Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home.

SKIMS

Shop SKIMS Mens at SKIMS.com/lockedonnba. Let them know we sent you! After you place your order, select "podcast" in the survey and select our show in the dropdown menu that follows.

OpenPhone

The #1 business phone system designed to help you keep your work and personal life separate. Right now, OpenPhone is offering 20% off your first 6 months when you go to OpenPhone.com/LOCKEDONNBA. and if you have existing numbers with another service, OpenPhone will port them over at no extra charge!

Door Dash

They Swoosh, You Save: when any player scores 50 or more points in a game during the 24/25 NBA regular season, DashPass members save 50% on an order, up to $10 off with promo code NBA50. 50% Off 1 Order (Up to $10 Off)

Offer valid from 9:00 AM PT through 11:59 PM PT after a 50 point performance in any game during the NBA season on orders placed at participating merchant locations. Valid only in the United States. Maximum value of discount is $10.00. Discount applies to subtotal only; does not apply to fees, taxes, and gratuity. Not valid for pickup. Limit one per person. Not valid for the purchase of alcohol. Fees, taxes, and gratuity still apply. Must have an active DashPass account. Use promo code NBA50 to redeem. See further terms and conditions at https://drd.sh/8ONpZP/.

Monarch Money

Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year.

FanDuel

Right now, new customers can get TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

The Charlotte Hornets are at a crossroads, and the latest offseason rumors suggest some major shake-ups could be on the horizon. Marc Stein reports that Mark Williams' trade market is expected to be re-explored this summer—does this mean the Hornets are moving on from their young center? And what about LaMelo Ball? While the team has “tried” to shut down speculation, the wording raises questions about their long-term commitment to their star point guard.

Doug Branson and Walker Mehl dissect what this all means for Charlotte’s future, including whether the Hornets should finally stop betting on “what could be” and start making proactive moves. Are the Hornets still too attached to their young core, or is it time to shake things up?

Plus, we dive into the latest mock drafts and how the Hornets’ standing in the lottery could completely change their draft strategy. Could a big trade open up new opportunities? Would selecting a center mean the end of Mark Williams in Charlotte? We run a tankathon simulation, analyze potential fits, and speculate on what the front office might do.

And don’t miss our game preview as the Hornets take on the Knicks—will Charlotte be able to hold their own against a tough New York squad?

Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…

🎧 https://linktr.ee/lockedonhornets

Become an official member of the Locked On Hornets Sicko Brigade and get Hornets news, rumors and pictures of Byron Mullens sent directly to your phone via Subtext (14 Day Free Trial): https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonhornets

Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More

🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA

Get Doug's gamenotes, special articles and a podcast on Hornets history at the Every Hornets Boxscore substack: everyhornetsboxscore.com

Get more Walker on Wes and Walker 12-3pm on WFNZ 92.7 FM

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

📲 Follow Locked On Hornets on Twitter

Locked On Hornets https://twitter.com/LockedOnHornets

Walker Mehl https://twitter.com/WalkerMehl

Doug Branson https://twitter.com/DougBransonLOH

Your favorite podcast now has a newsletter! In One-stop for ultimate team and league coverage delivered right to your in box. Sign up for free now, at lockedondaily.com.

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Turbo Tax

Ready for stress-free taxes and the most money back, guaranteed? Head over to TurboTax.com today and get matched with your Expert. Only available with TurboTax Live Full Service. Real-time updates only in the iOS mobile app. See guarantee details at TurboTax.com/guarantees.

WayFair

After the holiday hustle, there’s nothing like giving your home a little TLC. Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home.

SKIMS

Shop SKIMS Mens at SKIMS.com/lockedonnba. Let them know we sent you! After you place your order, select "podcast" in the survey and select our show in the dropdown menu that follows.

OpenPhone

The #1 business phone system designed to help you keep your work and personal life separate. Right now, OpenPhone is offering 20% off your first 6 months when you go to OpenPhone.com/LOCKEDONNBA. and if you have existing numbers with another service, OpenPhone will port them over at no extra charge!

Door Dash

They Swoosh, You Save: when any player scores 50 or more points in a game during the 24/25 NBA regular season, DashPass members save 50% on an order, up to $10 off with promo code NBA50. 50% Off 1 Order (Up to $10 Off)

Offer valid from 9:00 AM PT through 11:59 PM PT after a 50 point performance in any game during the NBA season on orders placed at participating merchant locations. Valid only in the United States. Maximum value of discount is $10.00. Discount applies to subtotal only; does not apply to fees, taxes, and gratuity. Not valid for pickup. Limit one per person. Not valid for the purchase of alcohol. Fees, taxes, and gratuity still apply. Must have an active DashPass account. Use promo code NBA50 to redeem. See further terms and conditions at https://drd.sh/8ONpZP/.

Monarch Money

Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year.

FanDuel

Right now, new customers can get TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

The Charlotte Hornets just got wrecked by the Atlanta Hawks, losing 134-102 in a game that was over before it even started. No LaMelo Ball. No Miles Bridges. No chance. While the Hornets were forced to rely on younger players like Mark Williams, Nick Smith Jr., and DaQuan Jeffries, the results weren’t exactly inspiring. Doug Branson is in full “Spicy D” mode, unleashing frustration about the Hornets’ effort (or lack thereof) and the team’s historically bad losing stretch.

But it’s not all doom and gloom! Mark Williams quietly showed off an intriguing new skill—his passing from the short roll. Could this be a real offensive weapon moving forward? And speaking of the future, we dive into a massive debate: Would you trade ANY Hornets player if it guaranteed getting Cooper Flagg? LaMelo? Miller? Even Bridges? We read fan takes and break down Flagg’s sky-high potential compared to past top picks like Zion and Cade Cunningham.

Plus, injury news on Moussa Diabate (spoiler: it’s bad), an update on Josh Okogie’s return, and some spicy trade speculation. It’s all here on Locked On Hornets!

Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…

🎧 https://linktr.ee/lockedonhornets

Become an official member of the Locked On Hornets Sicko Brigade and get Hornets news, rumors and pictures of Byron Mullens sent directly to your phone via Subtext (14 Day Free Trial): https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonhornets

Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More

🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA

Get Doug's gamenotes, special articles and a podcast on Hornets history at the Every Hornets Boxscore substack: everyhornetsboxscore.com

Get more Walker on Wes and Walker 12-3pm on WFNZ 92.7 FM

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

📲 Follow Locked On Hornets on Twitter

Locked On Hornets https://twitter.com/LockedOnHornets

Walker Mehl https://twitter.com/WalkerMehl

Doug Branson https://twitter.com/DougBransonLOH

Your favorite podcast now has a newsletter! In One-stop for ultimate team and league coverage delivered right to your in box. Sign up for free now, at lockedondaily.com.

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Turbo Tax

Ready for stress-free taxes and the most money back, guaranteed? Head over to TurboTax.com today and get matched with your Expert. Only available with TurboTax Live Full Service. Real-time updates only in the iOS mobile app. See guarantee details at TurboTax.com/guarantees.

WayFair

After the holiday hustle, there’s nothing like giving your home a little TLC. Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home.

SKIMS

Shop SKIMS Mens at SKIMS.com/lockedonnba. Let them know we sent you! After you place your order, select "podcast" in the survey and select our show in the dropdown menu that follows.

OpenPhone

The #1 business phone system designed to help you keep your work and personal life separate. Right now, OpenPhone is offering 20% off your first 6 months when you go to OpenPhone.com/LOCKEDONNBA. and if you have existing numbers with another service, OpenPhone will port them over at no extra charge!

Door Dash

They Swoosh, You Save: when any player scores 50 or more points in a game during the 24/25 NBA regular season, DashPass members save 50% on an order, up to $10 off with promo code NBA50. 50% Off 1 Order (Up to $10 Off)

Offer valid from 9:00 AM PT through 11:59 PM PT after a 50 point performance in any game during the NBA season on orders placed at participating merchant locations. Valid only in the United States. Maximum value of discount is $10.00. Discount applies to subtotal only; does not apply to fees, taxes, and gratuity. Not valid for pickup. Limit one per person. Not valid for the purchase of alcohol. Fees, taxes, and gratuity still apply. Must have an active DashPass account. Use promo code NBA50 to redeem. See further terms and conditions at https://drd.sh/8ONpZP/.

Monarch Money

Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year.

FanDuel

Right now, new customers can get TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)