Locked On Hornets - Daily Podcast On The Charlotte Hornets

We return to ask the big question: Was the victory over the Atlanta Hawks the most significant win of the season? While the Raptors game might have been the defensive peak, the guys argue that this performance offered the first true "proof of concept" for the new era of Hornets basketball. LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, and Kon Knueppel finally shared the floor in a way that showcased the team's explosive offensive ceiling, with Ball demonstrating a willingness to adapt his game for the greater good.

The conversation shifts to the numbers, revealing that Charlotte has quietly been a top-10 team in point differential and defense over the last two weeks. We explore whether this recent stretch, capped by LaMelo's return, signals a permanent shift in the team's trajectory or just a fleeting moment of health. Finally, the "Sicko Brigade" checks in with their celebrations. Join us for a celebratory Friday edition as we look ahead to tough tests against Detroit and Orlando.

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The Charlotte Hornets stay in the win column after a thrilling 133-126 victory over the Atlanta Hawks. Walker Mehl and Doug Branson react live to LaMelo Ball’s electric return to the court. LaMelo looked like his All-Star self, pouring in 28 points and closing out the game with a personal 7-0 run. But he wasn't alone—Brandon Miller and Kon Knueppel also flirted with 30-point nights, showcasing the terrifying potential of Charlotte's new "Bee Three." The offense was humming, racking up 39 assists and flirting with franchise records in a blistering first half.

We analyze how the dynamic between Ball, Miller, and Knueppel changes the geometry of the floor, creating open looks and "hooper's paradise" moments. Kon Knueppel continues to impact winning, recovering from rookie mistakes with game-saving hustle plays that you have to see to believe. While the offense shined, we also touch on the defensive lapses and a concerning physical drop-off from Moussa Diabate. Plus, we read your comments from the "Sicko Brigade" as the Hornets finally find the joy in basketball again.

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

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For your next listen, check out the Locked On NBA podcast, where the season never ends providing national expertise with a local perspective.

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We return to discuss the latest NBA Rookie Ladder. Kon Knueppel remains firmly at the number two spot, trailing only Cooper Flagg. We compare the impact of empty stats versus winning plays, noting Knueppel’s role in the recent overtime victory against Cleveland compared to Flagg's big scoring night in a loss. The guys also look at the numbers, stacking Knueppel’s rookie campaign up against LaMelo Ball’s Rookie of the Year season.

Speaking of holidays, the Charlotte Hornets remain the only NBA franchise to never play on Christmas Day. Is Knueppel the star power needed to finally get Charlotte on the festive slate, or does the team need a playoff series win first? We debate the merit of the NBA Cup after the New York Knicks reportedly refused to hang a banner for their championship. Finally, we answer a listener question about the 1997 Hornets comparison following a rare overtime shutout and provide a promising injury update on LaMelo Ball’s potential return to the court.

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Walker Mehl goes solo to discuss all of the takes flying around about LaMelo Ball come the NBA Trade Deadline. Does LaMelo actually want out of Charlotte? Walker tells you the biggest difference between LaMelo and Ja Morant/Trae Young. Is it clear LaMelo has more value than the other point guards? Finally, Walker goes through the ESPN NBA Power Rankings.

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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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#Hornets #LaMelo #LaMeloBall #CharlotteHornets

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Walker Mehl and Doug Branson recap a wild weekend for the Hornets. Kon Knueppel is turning heads, dropping 33 against the Bulls and following it up with a masterful performance in an overtime win over the Cavaliers. The guys discuss Michael Scotto's report that Charlotte already views the rookie as the face of the franchise. Is it too early for that label, or has his play forced the conversation? We look at how Knueppel has handled increased ball-handling duties with LaMelo Ball out, showing poise well beyond his years.

While the rookie thrives, Brandon Miller is battling through a rough shooting stretch inside the arc, though he came up huge on the glass with 13 rebounds and hit the clutch shot to seal the game in Cleveland. We also examine the playoff picture—despite the injuries, the Hornets remain in the hunt for the play-in. Is chasing the 10th seed the right move, or should they focus on lottery positioning? Finally, we touch on Ryan Kalkbrenner's development as he navigates the physicality of the NBA center position and Miles Bridges' struggles in crunch time.

02:00 - Kon Knueppel's Breakout Performance

12:00 - Is Kon Knueppel the New Face of the Franchise?

22:40 - Brandon Miller's Shooting Slump & Rebounding

29:30 - Ryan Kalkbrenner & Center Rotation Issues

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For your next listen, check out the Locked On NBA podcast, where the season never ends providing national expertise with a local perspective.

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Quo

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Zocdoc

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All investments involve risk, including loss of principal. Options, futures, and crypto trading carry significant risk and may not suit all investors. Securities offered through Robinhood Financial LLC, member SIPC. Futures trading is offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC and not SPIC or FDIC protected. Crypto offered through Robinhood Crypto, LLC (NMLS ID 1702840), not FDIC or SIPC protected. Portfolio management offered by Robinhood Strategies, an SEC-registered advisor.

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Kon Knueppel looked every bit the star the Hornets hoped for, dropping a career-high 33 points and showcasing an offensive arsenal that kept Charlotte in the game until the final buzzer. But the headline isn't just the rookie's breakout performance—it is the controversial no-call on his potential game-tying three-pointer. We examine the officiating decision regarding Zach Collins' landing zone and why Charles Lee had every right to be frustrated.

Despite the heroics from Knueppel and a 32-point outing from Miles Bridges, the Hornets' defense simply didn't show up. Giving up 80 points in the paint to the Bulls is a recipe for disaster, regardless of how many point guards are on the injury report. Speaking of injuries, with LaMelo Ball, Collin Sexton, and Tre Mann all sidelined, the offense looked clunky at critical moments. We also look at Brandon Miller's tough night from the field and whether this funk is just a slump or something more concerning. Plus, the "Sicko Brigade" weighs in with their lamentations, and we take a quick peek at the latest draft lottery odds. It’s a packed episode reacting to a heartbreaker in Chicago.

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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

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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

📲 Follow Locked On Hornets on Twitter

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Doug Branson https://twitter.com/DougBransonLOH

For your next listen, check out the Locked On NBA podcast, where the season never ends providing national expertise with a local perspective.

Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Everydayer Club  If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

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Mint Mobile

Turn your expensive wireless present into a huge wireless savings future by switching to Mint.Shop Mint Unlimited Plans at http://MINTMOBILE.com/LOCKEDONNBA.Disclaimer: Limited time offer. Upfront payment of: $45 for 3-mo., $90 for 6-mo., or $180 for 12-mo. plan required($15/mo. equivalent). Taxes & feesInitial plan term only.  Greater Than 35GB may slow when network is busy. Capable device required. Availability, speed, & coverage varies. See mintmobile.com.

Quo

Make this the year where no opportunity and no customer slips away.Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to https://www.Quo.com/lockedonnba.Quo — no missed calls, no missed customers.

Zocdoc

Stop putting off your doctor’s appointments and get the care you need.Go to htps://Zocdoc.com/lockedonnba to find and instantly book a top-rated doctortoday.

Robinhood

You expect more from yourself. Expect more from your money. Get started today at robinhood.com/yourmoney. Your money. Your move.

All investments involve risk, including loss of principal. Options, futures, and crypto trading carry significant risk and may not suit all investors. Securities offered through Robinhood Financial LLC, member SIPC. Futures trading is offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC and not SPIC or FDIC protected. Crypto offered through Robinhood Crypto, LLC (NMLS ID 1702840), not FDIC or SIPC protected. Portfolio management offered by Robinhood Strategies, an SEC-registered advisor.

Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel

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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)

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Today on Locked On Hornets, we open up the notebook for "Stray Observations." Kon Knueppel has been riding an efficiency roller coaster lately. We look at the numbers and identify the missing ingredient in his game compared to other top rookies like Cooper Flagg—specifically his ability to get to the free-throw line. Then, we turn our attention to Collin Sexton. The data shows he is elite in catch-and-shoot situations, yet the volume remains surprisingly low. Is it time for Charles Lee to tweak the offense to unlock more three-point attempts for the veteran guard?

Later, we react to a controversial report from Jake Fischer involving a "prominent cap person" labeling LaMelo Ball as the "most unserious player in the NBA." We discuss the validity of these anonymous league sources versus what is actually happening inside the building. Finally, ESPN proposes a massive four-team trade involving Anthony Davis that treats Charlotte like a dumping ground for bad contracts. We explain why the Hornets should have no interest in helping facilitate deals for the Lakers and Warriors if the return is just spare parts like Maxi Kleber and Dalton Knecht.

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Kon Knueppel has officially been passed in the NBA Rookie Ladder race by Cooper Flagg, and we examine if this is a temporary dip or a sign of things to come. We look at the statistical arguments for both players, noting how Knueppel's efficiency remains high despite defenses adjusting to him, while Flagg's recent scoring outbursts have propelled him to the top spot. With Derik Queen also making noise at number three, the race for Rookie of the Year is heating up quickly.

The Charlotte Hornets are about to face a major roster crunch. With Josh Green and Grant Williams nearing their returns to the lineup, difficult decisions loom for head coach Charles Lee. We explore whose minutes are at risk—specifically looking at how this impacts rookies Liam McNeeley, who was recently assigned to the Greensboro Swarm, and Sion James. Is it better to showcase the veterans for potential trade value, or should the franchise prioritize development for the younger core?

Finally, we open up the mailbag to answer a tough question: In hindsight, was giving LaMelo Ball a max contract extension a mistake? We debate the decision-making process at the time versus the current reality of his injury history and discuss why letting him walk was never a viable option for the franchise. Plus, we provide the latest updates on LaMelo's recovery as he was spotted doing individual drills at practice.

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

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For your next listen, check out the Locked On NBA podcast, where the season never ends providing national expertise with a local perspective.

Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Everydayer Club  If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

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Mint MobileTurn your expensive wireless present into a huge wireless savings future by switching to Mint.Shop Mint Unlimited Plans at http://MINTMOBILE.com/LOCKEDONNBA.Disclaimer: Limited time offer. Upfront payment of: $45 for 3-mo., $90 for 6-mo., or $180 for 12-mo. plan required($15/mo. equivalent). Taxes & feesInitial plan term only.  Greater Than 35GB may slow when network is busy. Capable device required. Availability, speed, & coverage varies. See mintmobile.com.

QuoMake this the year where no opportunity and no customer slips away.Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to https://www.Quo.com/lockedonnba.Quo — no missed calls, no missed customers.

ZocdocStop putting off your doctor’s appointments and get the care you need.Go to htps://Zocdoc.com/lockedonnba to find and instantly book a top-rated doctortoday.

RobinhoodYou expect more from yourself. Expect more from your money. Get started today at robinhood.com/yourmoney. Your money. Your move.

All investments involve risk, including loss of principal. Options, futures, and crypto trading carry significant risk and may not suit all investors. Securities offered through Robinhood Financial LLC, member SIPC. Futures trading is offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC and not SPIC or FDIC protected. Crypto offered through Robinhood Crypto, LLC (NMLS ID 1702840), not FDIC or SIPC protected. Portfolio management offered by Robinhood Strategies, an SEC-registered advisor.

GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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)

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Walker Mehl goes solo to discuss the recent poll conducted by The Athletic discussing the best front offices in the NBA. Where did the Hornets rank? How many times have you disagreed with a Jeff Peterson decision? If you disagreed with the Tidjane Salaun draft selection, are you starting to change your mind? Walker goes into detail on the Salaun experience and whether you should be buying stock. Finally… are you saying there’s a chance at the Play-in tournament?

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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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#Hornets #LaMelo #LaMeloBall #CharlotteHornets

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LaMelo Ball is back on the injury report with a left ankle bone bruise following a slip against the Raptors, and the frustration is mounting. We discuss the reality of his recurring ankle issues and ask the uncomfortable question: Is it time for the Charlotte Hornets to consider moving on from their franchise star? With Tre Mann, Collin Sexton, and Moussa Diabate also sidelined, the team's depth is being tested, and we analyze how the front office might view this latest setback.

We also recap a tough outing against the Denver Nuggets where Nikola Jokic did whatever he wanted against a depleted roster. Brandon Miller continues to battle through a shoulder issue that has him heavily wrapped up, while rookie Kon Knueppel faced a true "Welcome to the NBA" moment as the Nuggets' defense focused in on him.

Finally, the Terry Rozier saga takes a strange turn. As Rozier pleads not guilty to sports betting charges, reports surface that the Miami Heat are frustrated they weren't informed of the investigation prior to the trade. We examine if there is any actual risk of Charlotte having to return the draft assets acquired in that deal or if this is just noise from South Beach.

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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

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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 

 📲 Follow Locked On Hornets on Twitter 

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Walker Mehl https://twitter.com/WalkerMehl 

Doug Branson https://twitter.com/DougBransonLOH 

For your next listen, check out the Locked On NBA podcast, where the season never ends providing national expertise with a local perspective. 

 Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Mint Mobile
Turn your expensive wireless present into a huge wireless savings future by switching to Mint.Shop Mint Unlimited Plans at http://MINTMOBILE.com/LOCKEDONNBA.
Disclaimer: Limited time offer. Upfront payment of: $45 for 3-mo., $90 for 6-mo., or $180 for 12-mo. plan required($15/mo. equivalent). Taxes & feesInitial plan term only.  Greater Than 35GB may slow when network is busy. Capable device required. Availability, speed, & coverage varies. See mintmobile.com.

Quo
Make this the year where no opportunity and no customer slips away.
Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to https://www.Quo.com/lockedonnba.Quo — no missed calls, no missed customers.

Zocdoc
Stop putting off your doctor’s appointments and get the care you need.
Go to htps://Zocdoc.com/lockedonnba to find and instantly book a top-rated doctortoday.

Robinhood
You expect more from yourself. Expect more from your money. Get started today at robinhood.com/yourmoney. Your money. Your move.
 

All investments involve risk, including loss of principal. Options, futures, and crypto trading carry significant risk and may not suit all investors. Securities offered through Robinhood Financial LLC, member SIPC. Futures trading is offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC and not SPIC or FDIC protected. Crypto offered through Robinhood Crypto, LLC (NMLS ID 1702840), not FDIC or SIPC protected. Portfolio management offered by Robinhood Strategies, an SEC-registered advisor.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.
 

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)

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