Locked On Hornets - Daily Podcast On The Charlotte Hornets

The Charlotte Hornets are once again at a crossroads, and this time, all eyes are on LaMelo Ball. His defensive effort against Minnesota raised serious questions—was it just a bad game, or is he mentally checking out as the season winds down? With the team buried in the standings and little talent surrounding him, frustration seems inevitable.

We break down LaMelo’s recent play, including his declining efficiency at the rim, foul-drawing struggles, and shifting shot selection. Is the Hornets’ front office to blame for failing to build around him, or is it simply time to ask if he's the long-term answer? We also explore whether Charlotte should target another primary ball handler in the draft, despite already having LaMelo on the roster.

Plus, we dig into catch-and-shoot vs. pull-up three-point numbers, what they reveal about LaMelo’s ideal role, and what Cleveland’s backcourt success with Garland and Mitchell could teach Charlotte. Is this a team-building philosophy shift waiting to happen, or are the Hornets doomed to keep repeating the same mistakes?

Don't miss our deep dive into these pressing topics, plus listener questions from the Sicko Satchel. Make sure to subscribe and join the conversation!

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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

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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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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.

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From the first whistle to the final drive, FanDuel makes the NFL Playoffs even more exciting! Right now, new customers can bet FIVE DOLLARS and get THREE HUNDRED BUCKS in BONUS BETS – if you win your first bet! Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started. Make this playoff season unforgettable with FanDuel, an official sportsbook partner of the NFL.

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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Introducing SGA’s MVP Case Locked? | Did AD Talk His Way Out of L.A. Lakers? | Celtics Make History from Locked On NBA – Daily Podcast On The National Basketball Association.

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Did Shai Gilgeous-Alexander just slam the door on the MVP race, or can Nikola Jokic still flip the narrative? We break down OKC’s dominant win over Memphis, SGA’s fourth-quarter takeover, and why the head-to-head matchups with Denver could decide everything. Meanwhile, the Celtics pulled off a franchise-first with Derrick White and Payton Pritchard making history—but does it actually matter for Boston’s title hopes?

Then, we take a closer look at Jeanie Buss’ eyebrow-raising comments on Anthony Davis and how his desire to avoid playing center may have pushed him out of Los Angeles. Over in Milwaukee, Giannis Antetokounmpo reached the 20,000-point mark, and we discuss whether he’s still underrated as a pure scorer. Plus, James Harden turned back the clock with a 50-point explosion—just as the Clippers started to slip.

Finally, we debate a fascinating question: which NBA team with a losing record right now has the best shot at making the Finals? Are the Pacers quietly dangerous? Could a Warriors run still be on the table? And what about the Heat or the Hawks? Don’t miss this loaded episode of Locked On NBA!

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TALKSPACE
Therapy is a game-changer. To match with a licensed therapist today, go to Talkspace.com/LOCKEDONNBA and enter promo code SPACE80 to get $80 off your first month and show your support for the show.

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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.

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From the first whistle to the final drive, FanDuel makes the NFL Playoffs even more exciting! Right now, new customers can bet FIVE DOLLARS and get THREE HUNDRED BUCKS in BONUS BETS – if you win your first bet! Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started. Make this playoff season unforgettable with FanDuel, an official sportsbook partner of the NFL.

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)

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].

The Charlotte Hornets' season keeps unraveling, and their 125-110 loss to the Timberwolves only added to the frustration. Mark Williams had what can only be described as a back-breaking performance, struggling with rebounds, catching the ball, defensive rotations, and overall impact. Is his inconsistency becoming a long-term concern for the Hornets?

On the flip side, Miles Bridges continues to shine, proving to be the team's most reliable scorer and tone-setter. While much of the season has focused on LaMelo Ball’s injuries and Mark Williams’ development, Bridges has been the rock keeping this team somewhat competitive. Should we be giving him more credit for his consistency?

LaMelo Ball, meanwhile, is visibly frustrated. Whether it's missed calls, defensive lapses, or a general lack of support, his body language is telling. Is he getting a fair whistle from the refs, or does he need to adjust his approach? Plus, we discuss Moussa Diabate’s infectious energy, Seth Curry’s sudden three-point surge, and Charles Lee already looking exhausted from coaching this team.

All that and more on today’s Locked On Hornets!

Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 

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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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Now’s the perfect time to join.Download the app today and use code LOCKEDONNBA to get $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup! That’s right—no need to win to get the bonus, it’s guaranteed. PrizePicks—Run Your Game! 

TALKSPACE
Therapy is a game-changer. To match with a licensed therapist today, go to Talkspace.com/LOCKEDONNBA and enter promo code SPACE80 to get $80 off your first month and show your support for the show.

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
From the first whistle to the final drive, FanDuel makes the NFL Playoffs even more exciting! Right now, new customers can bet FIVE DOLLARS and get THREE HUNDRED BUCKS in BONUS BETS – if you win your first bet! Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started. Make this playoff season unforgettable with FanDuel, an official sportsbook partner of the NFL.

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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Introducing LeBron & Luka’s Championship Path? | Durant vs. Budenholzer | Is Zion the Future in NOLA? from Locked On NBA – Daily Podcast On The National Basketball Association.

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LeBron James has officially entered uncharted territory, crossing the 50,000-point mark across regular season and playoff games. But will he and Luka Doncic be the duo that takes the Lakers to another NBA title? Matt Moore and Haize discuss LeBron’s continued dominance, Luka’s rising chemistry in LA, and whether the Lakers can truly contend.

Meanwhile, cameras caught Kevin Durant and Suns coach Mike Budenholzer in a tense courtside moment—was it a sign of deeper issues or just a fiery competitor in the heat of battle? And speaking of tension, should the Toronto Raptors lean into their recent hot streak and chase a play-in spot, or is it time to embrace the tank?

Plus, we break down the Knicks’ and Thunder’s experiments with double-big lineups—do these strategies make them dark-horse threats in the playoffs, or are they destined to backfire? And finally, the debate heats up over Zion Williamson: with jaw-dropping stats but ongoing injury concerns, should the Pelicans truly build around him for the future?

All that and more on today’s Locked On NBA!

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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!

Prizepicks
Now’s the perfect time to join.Download the app today and use code LOCKEDONNBA to get $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup! That’s right—no need to win to get the bonus, it’s guaranteed. PrizePicks—Run Your Game! 

TALKSPACE
Therapy is a game-changer. To match with a licensed therapist today, go to Talkspace.com/LOCKEDONNBA and enter promo code SPACE80 to get $80 off your first month and show your support for the show.

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
From the first whistle to the final drive, FanDuel makes the NFL Playoffs even more exciting! Right now, new customers can bet FIVE DOLLARS and get THREE HUNDRED BUCKS in BONUS BETS – if you win your first bet! Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started. Make this playoff season unforgettable with FanDuel, an official sportsbook partner of the NFL.

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)

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].

The LaMelo Ball trade speculation is heating up, with NBA executives reportedly keeping an eye on Charlotte’s star guard. But is there any real substance to these rumors, or is this just another case of outside teams circling a struggling franchise? We break down the latest report and whether the Hornets should even consider dealing their franchise player.

Meanwhile, the team’s future remains in flux as Mark Williams, who was nearly traded at the deadline, continues to be a name to watch. Will the Hornets look to move on from him this summer? And what about Miles Bridges? He’s playing some of his best basketball since the All-Star break, but does that mean he’s in Charlotte’s plans long-term—or just building value for a potential deal?

We also discuss Nick Smith Jr.’s struggles and whether he still has a future with the team. Is it too early to give up on him, or is his timeline misaligned with Charlotte’s goals? Finally, we end with a fun hypothetical: Could the current injury-depleted Hornets squad beat the infamous 7-win 2012 Bobcats? The answer may surprise you.

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!

Prizepicks
Now’s the perfect time to join.Download the app today and use code LOCKEDONNBA to get $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup! That’s right—no need to win to get the bonus, it’s guaranteed. PrizePicks—Run Your Game! 

TALKSPACE
Therapy is a game-changer. To match with a licensed therapist today, go to Talkspace.com/LOCKEDONNBA and enter promo code SPACE80 to get $80 off your first month and show your support for the show.

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
From the first whistle to the final drive, FanDuel makes the NFL Playoffs even more exciting! Right now, new customers can bet FIVE DOLLARS and get THREE HUNDRED BUCKS in BONUS BETS – if you win your first bet! Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started. Make this playoff season unforgettable with FanDuel, an official sportsbook partner of the NFL.

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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Introducing Warriors Roll Over Knicks at MSG + LeBron James Creates 50k Club from Locked On NBA – Daily Podcast On The National Basketball Association.

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After Tuesday night's win over the Knicks at Madison Square Garden, the Golden State Warriors are 9-1 with Jimmy Butler in the lineup alongside Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. But are they legitimate contenders in the West? Wes Goldberg and Tony East talk about how the Warriors and Los Angeles Lakers stack up and LeBron James becoming the first player in NBA history to score 50,000 career points in the regular season and playoffs. Plus more from a fun Tuesday night slate.

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Now’s the perfect time to join.Download the app todayand use codeLOCKEDONNBA to get $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup! That’s right—no need to win to get the bonus, it’s guaranteed. PrizePicks—Run Your Game!
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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)

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].

In this episode of the Locked On NBA Squad Show East, hosts debate the merits of LaMelo Ball versus Trae Young as franchise players. They discuss the potential availability of Ball on the trade market and analyze his impact on the Charlotte Hornets. The panel also creates Oscar-inspired NBA awards, including best lead player and best special effects team. Donovan Mitchell, Jayson Tatum, and Cade Cunningham emerge as top contenders for best lead, while the Milwaukee Bucks and New York Knicks are scrutinized for their smoke and mirrors performances. The hosts inject humor and movie analogies throughout, offering a fresh perspective on the Eastern Conference landscape.

0:00 Intro: LaMelo Ball vs Trae Young debate

6:45 Defending LaMelo Ball's impact on Hornets

12:42 Creating NBA awards inspired by Oscars

25:41 Best "special effects" team in the East

32:03 Best comedy and drama teams in NBA

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Prizepicks
Now’s the perfect time to join.Download the app today and use code LOCKEDONNBA to get $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup! That’s right—no need to win to get the bonus, it’s guaranteed. PrizePicks—Run Your Game! 

TALKSPACE
Therapy is a game-changer. To match with a licensed therapist today, go to Talkspace.com/LOCKEDONNBA and enter promo code SPACE80 to get $80 off your first month and show your support for the show.

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
From the first whistle to the final drive, FanDuel makes the NFL Playoffs even more exciting! Right now, new customers can bet FIVE DOLLARS and get THREE HUNDRED BUCKS in BONUS BETS – if you win your first bet! Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started. Make this playoff season unforgettable with FanDuel, an official sportsbook partner of the NFL.

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)

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

The Charlotte Hornets fall to the Golden State Warriors 119-101, but was this a "better" loss compared to recent disasters? Doug Branson and Walker Mehl break down the highs and lows, including LaMelo Ball’s erratic performance—brilliant from deep but brutal around the rim—and Miles Bridges’ steady 35-point outing. Mark Williams showed flashes of defensive improvement, but is it enough to cement his role in Charlotte’s future?

We also discuss the Hornets' "quiet quitting" approach to tanking, what it means for their offseason plans, and why Nick Smith Jr. might not have a long-term place on this roster. Plus, we have some fun conceptualizing The Low Bar—a fictional (for now) Hornets-themed bar, complete with drinks like “Screwed Over” and “Mo-sicko”

With the team heading toward another lottery finish, what’s next for Charlotte? Is there enough development from young players like Tidjane Salaun to provide optimism, or are we just counting down to the draft? All that and more on today’s 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

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Introducing Can the Lakers Hold the No. 2 Seed? | KD & Suns Headed for a Split | Are the Cavs the Team to Beat? from Locked On NBA – Daily Podcast On The National Basketball Association.

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The Los Angeles Lakers have stormed their way to the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference, but is their stay at the top temporary? Matt Moore and Haize debate whether L.A. can sustain this success and how their defensive turnaround is fueling their rise. Meanwhile, the Phoenix Suns and Kevin Durant appear headed for a breakup—what went wrong, and where could KD land next?

The Cleveland Cavaliers pulled off back-to-back dramatic comebacks over the weekend, and the numbers suggest they might be the hottest team in the NBA. Are they legitimate title contenders, and could they be the biggest threat to the Celtics in the East? Plus, Joel Embiid’s season-ending injury exposes a growing rift between the Sixers and their franchise star—what does this mean for his future in Philadelphia?

We also break down key injuries and returns around the league: Can Mitchell Robinson's return give the Knicks a playoff boost? Will the Kings hold steady without Domantas Sabonis? And does Jalen Suggs’ injury derail the Magic’s postseason hopes?

Finally, we dive into a massive Western Conference showdown as the Rockets face the Thunder—can OKC improve in close-game situations? All that and more on today's Locked On NBA!

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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!

Prizepicks
Now’s the perfect time to join.Download the app today and use code LOCKEDONNBA to get $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup! That’s right—no need to win to get the bonus, it’s guaranteed. PrizePicks—Run Your Game! 

TALKSPACE
Therapy is a game-changer. To match with a licensed therapist today, go to Talkspace.com/LOCKEDONNBA and enter promo code SPACE80 to get $80 off your first month and show your support for the show.

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
From the first whistle to the final drive, FanDuel makes the NFL Playoffs even more exciting! Right now, new customers can bet FIVE DOLLARS and get THREE HUNDRED BUCKS in BONUS BETS – if you win your first bet! Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started. Make this playoff season unforgettable with FanDuel, an official sportsbook partner of the NFL.

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)

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].

It happened again. The Charlotte Hornets suffered yet another brutal loss to the Washington Wizards, officially getting swept in the season series. In a game where 80% of the starting lineup was active, the Hornets still couldn't put together a win—raising serious questions about the culture, effort, and future of this team.

Doug and Walker break down the game, highlighting LaMelo Ball’s continued struggles, Mark Williams' solid performance, and why Charlotte keeps finding new ways to lose. Are the Hornets just tanking, or is there a deeper problem with the team’s identity? And with fan interest hitting rock bottom, is there any hope for a turnaround before the season ends?

Plus, we take a hard look at the state of the roster. Should the Hornets consider moving on from LaMelo if the injuries persist? Is the front office prepared to make the tough decisions needed to fix this mess?

We’ve got stats, analysis, and some therapy for long-suffering Hornets fans. Tap in for a deep dive into another painful night for Charlotte basketball.

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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

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!

Prizepicks
Now’s the perfect time to join.Download the app today and use code LOCKEDONNBA to get $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup! That’s right—no need to win to get the bonus, it’s guaranteed. PrizePicks—Run Your Game! 

TALKSPACE
Therapy is a game-changer. To match with a licensed therapist today, go to Talkspace.com/LOCKEDONNBA and enter promo code SPACE80 to get $80 off your first month and show your support for the show.

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
From the first whistle to the final drive, FanDuel makes the NFL Playoffs even more exciting! Right now, new customers can bet FIVE DOLLARS and get THREE HUNDRED BUCKS in BONUS BETS – if you win your first bet! Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started. Make this playoff season unforgettable with FanDuel, an official sportsbook partner of the NFL.

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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