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 important to let go—especially with the uncertainty around Josh Green’s health. Plus, we dive into the Trey Mann situation and whether the Hornets should use cap space to retain him or prioritize defensive versatility elsewhere.

At the center position, we go through potential targets like Day’Ron Sharpe, Thomas Bryant, Luke Kornet, and even briefly entertain the idea of Deandre Ayton (spoiler: it’s a hard no). We explain why some names fit the Hornets’ new identity and why others don’t pass the culture test.

Finally, we consider a conspiracy theory that ties the draft-day Ace Bailey drama to the Sexton deal—and why the Jazz might have handed the Hornets a gift. Join us for a jam-packed episode full of insight, speculation, and a few broken sports-brain tangents.

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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 guard glut that includes LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, Kon Knueppel, Sion James, and possibly Liam McNeeley. Is this the first domino of many, or a standalone move to stabilize the roster? We even explore whether this raises real questions about LaMelo’s long-term fit.

Plus: What kind of center should the Hornets target next—cheap vet, big swing, or Luke Kornet fan favorite? We throw around free agent names like Andre Drummond and Daniel Gafford, debate the Sexton fit with Charles Lee’s offense, and give you all the numbers you need to know on his shooting, downhill scoring, and contract. The vibes are finally trending up—come join the party. Sickos, mount up.

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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 the balance of younger and older rookies, and what that means for the Hornets' rotation in 2025.

Plus, we react to Jeff Peterson’s comments about bringing Tre Mann back—what that means for the bench unit and how it plays into Charlotte’s potential free agency and trade plans. Are they quietly preparing for a big move?

We close it out by looking ahead to Summer League and asking the big question: are we finally watching a front office that knows what it’s doing? After years of head-scratching picks and mismatched rosters, this draft actually feels like it aligns with Charles Lee’s vision. That’s a weird, but very good feeling.

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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 future first, and Vasilije Micić. The crew breaks down why this trade was a savvy asset grab, even if Williams’ potential remains intriguing.

They dive deep into McNeely’s upside as a shooter, his injury-plagued season at UConn, and why he might need G-League seasoning before becoming a contributor. They also preview second-round targets like Ryan Kalkbrenner and Maxime Raynaud, and how they could fill the looming center void.

From big-picture philosophical debates about fit vs. best player available, to how Charles Lee’s offensive vision is finally taking shape — this is your all-in-one breakdown of a massive night for the Hornets’ future.

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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 even Devin Vassell. They analyze how these moves would signal whether the Hornets are trying to win now or build slowly. Plus, is Tre Mann's reported full recovery a leverage play or legit news ahead of free agency?

We also get spicy with a Sicko Satchel draft retrospective—what was the worst Hornets draft ever? 2021’s complete bust? Or the 2011 Biyombo/Kemba split? And just how far would Ace Bailey have to fall before the Hornets say “enough is enough” and take the talent?

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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 not have the longest wingspan, but has the heart, motor, and defensive playmaking that could perfectly complement Brandon Miller and LaMelo Ball.

Plus: Is the media overstating Charlotte’s dysfunction, or is there real concern about their ability to attract top talent? And what does Shams' vague commentary on LaMelo Ball actually mean—if anything?

Also on tap: secret workouts, smokescreens, and what this front office’s silence might be saying loud and clear about their draft intentions. With just hours to go before the 2024 NBA Draft, this is the deep dive every Hornets fan needs.

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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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Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

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)

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 revisit infamous draft “what-ifs,” asking whether the current front office would have selected LaMelo Ball or Malik Monk. Plus, they unpack a bold listener trade scenario involving Brooklyn's picks and discuss whether giving up the No. 4 selection for multiple firsts makes sense.

As draft week approaches, Doug and Walker weigh the risk of passing on VJ Edgecombe or Tre Johnson in favor of deeper roster construction. They break down pros, cons, and comps—including why Tre Johnson’s Malik Monk comparison is giving Doug nightmares.

Don’t miss this crucial draft episode that’s as much about what the Hornets might do as what they should do.

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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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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 Lacett's tweet about a draft lottery prospect refusing to work out with Charlotte due to LaMelo Ball raises serious questions. Is LaMelo becoming a problem, or is this just another agent-driven narrative?

Finally, the guys break down LaVar Ball’s renewed push to unite the Ball brothers on the Clippers and why that noise doesn’t really move the needle. Mock drafts, LaVar takes, potential trades involving Herb Jones, and who could be this year's Tidjane Salaun — it’s all on a jam-packed episode of 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

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

OLIPOP

Get a free can of OLIPOP! Just buy any two cans in store and they’ll reimburse you for one. Head to drinkolipop.com/LOCKEDONNBA to claim your free can and find OLIPOP near you.

CarGurus

Buy or sell your next car today with CarGurus at CarGurus.com to make sure your big deal is the best deal.

WayFair

Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home.

Monarch Money

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

Gametime

Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

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)