Locked On Hornets - Daily Podcast On The Charlotte Hornets

Locked On Podcast Network
Locked On Podcast Network
  • 4.6 (267)
  • Basketball
  • Updated Daily

Locked On Hornets podcast is your daily ticket to stay ahead of the game and the first to know the latest news, analysis, and insider info for the Charlotte Hornets and the NBA. Walker Mehl from WFNZ and Doug Branson, a writer at EveryHornetsBoxscore.com, provide expert, local analysis and intelligent takes on the Charlotte Hornets. Locked On Hornets takes you beyond the scoreboard for the inside scoops on the biggest stories from within the Hornets locker room and all over the NBA. The Locked On Hornets podcast is part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.

  1. 2d ago

    Does the LeBron to 76ers Change the Hornets Season? | More LaMelo Aftermath | What can Kon Add to his game?

    LeBron James is heading to Philadelphia, and while the Hornets aren't in the championship conversation, his decision still reshapes their offseason math. The show opens by unpacking how the East's newest superteam affects Charlotte's path back to the play-in, and why this outcome might actually be the best-case scenario for the front office as they weigh backup point guard options like Dennis Schröder. From there, the focus shifts to the trade that's defined the Hornets' summer: LaMelo Ball heading out of Charlotte. A front-office executive's quote — "when you trade someone as good and as popular as LaMelo Ball, you have to get it right" — becomes the launching point for a deeper look at why the organization felt this was the right move at the right time, from Kobe White's ascension to full-time point guard to Nasreddine Nabil's fit up front. Kon Knueppel also gets the spotlight, both for his glowing praise of his former teammate on a recent Milwaukee podcast appearance and for a quote about his own relentless improvement mindset — one that echoes a familiar Kevin Durant story from Steve Clifford's coaching days. What could Knueppel add to his game next season to become the star Charlotte needs him to be? Finally, a viral photo has Hornets fans buzzing: did Tre Mann pack on serious muscle this offseason? The show closes with a look ahead at what's shaping up to be one of the most competitive training camps in recent memory. 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 📲 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 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 Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! OdooGreat organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.  IndeedListeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast BetterhelpThis episode is sponsored by BetterHelp.Sign up and get 10% off at https://BetterHelp.com/LOCKEDONNBA.   FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COMto play Daily Dingers and make your free pick on who’s hitting a homer this MLB season.   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.

  2. 3d ago

    RUMOR: Hornets TARGET Dennis Schroder 🚨 | Did Hornets Fans "Love" Miles Bridges?

    The backup point guard search may finally be nearing an end. According to Hoops Hype's Michael Scotto, the Hornets have been connected to Dennis Schroder, Cleveland's veteran combo guard — and the ties run deep. Jeff Peterson's longstanding relationship with Schroder dates back to their years together in Atlanta, and a web of German national team connections through Christian Andersen and Pontus Steinbach only adds to the case. The hosts examine what Schroder brings on the floor, how his shot selection has evolved in Cleveland, and lay out a realistic trade framework built around Dorian Finney-Smith and draft compensation. From there, it's time for a new summer segment. With Days of Thunder 2 reportedly filming in early 2027, the guys kick off a primer matching iconic characters from the original film to current Hornets — starting with Cole Trickle and the search for his modern-day equivalent on the roster. To close things out, the show turns to Miles Bridges, who held his introductory press conference with the Phoenix Suns this week. Bridges and Suns decision-maker Brian Gregory both addressed his 2022 no-contest plea to felony domestic violence, and Bridges spoke about his relationship with Hornets fans during his time in Charlotte. The hosts weigh those comments against what actually took place during his tenure with the team, and debate just how strong that fan connection really was. Trade rumors, a new silly season tradition, and a candid look back — all in one episode.   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 📲 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 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 Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Betterhelp This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. BetterHelp makes it easy to get matched online with a qualified therapist.  Sign up and get 10% off at http://BetterHelp.com/LOCKEDONNBA. Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  3. 4d ago

    Charles Lee SPEAKS Up! | Naz Reid IMPACT Season | Coby White ARRIVES

    Get an in-depth look at the Charlotte Hornets’ headline-making offseason as head coach Charles Lee sits down for a candid interview following the stunning LaMelo Ball trade. Walker Mehl and Doug Branson unpack Lee’s reaction to being “not caught off guard” by the move, highlighting the Hornets’ emphasis on organizational alignment and communication under Jeff Peterson’s leadership. The show spotlights rising expectations for Coby White, exploring why both Lee and the front office believe he’s ready to step into the starting point guard role—an endorsement that fans haven’t seen from the Bulls or national media. Hear why Naz Reid became the essential piece in the deal with Minnesota, and how his fit alongside new arrivals like Grayson Allen and Royce O’Neale promises to boost the Hornets’ depth and physicality. The hosts debate whether the Hornets have quietly become one of the East’s deepest rosters and what that could mean for young players including Kon Knueppel, Brandon Miller, Moussa Diabate, and Hannes Steinbach. They also share their win total predictions, analyze how the new-look lineup could outperform expectations, and discuss roster versatility as the Hornets eye a playoff return. Listeners will walk away with insider insights on the real impact of Charlotte’s bold changes and what to expect from this year’s squad. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Charles Lee SPEAKS Up! | Naz Reid IMPACT Season | Coby White ARRIVES

  4. 5d ago

    Roster Changes INCOMING? | Who is the ODD Man Out? | Hannes Steinbach SHINES

    The Charlotte Hornets may have wrapped up a busy offseason, but their roster remains far from settled. On today’s episode, Walker Mehl and Doug Branson tackle the burning question: are the Hornets truly finished making moves, or will another surprise deal reshape the team before training camp? The hosts react to Sam Vecenie’s comments about Charlotte’s logjam of guaranteed contracts and speculate which veterans—Grayson Allen, Royce O’Neale, or Dorian Finney-Smith—are most likely to be on the move. With possible trades in the air, the conversation shifts to evaluating the value each of these vets brings and the possibility of leveraging second-round picks for future assets. Walker Mehl and Doug Branson debate which young prospects and recent draft picks, like Liam McNeely and Hannes Steinbach, have earned their spot on the roster after an eye-opening Summer League. The hosts also consider the backup point guard dilemma, weighing the readiness of Christian Anderson and the value of keeping Tre Mann or bringing in new leadership. Plus: Who are the “roster imposters” most at risk of being cut or traded, and how do recent Summer League performances shape those tough decisions? Finally, the hosts share their takes on national media attention—like CBS Sports handing the Hornets an A for their offseason—and why flying under the radar just might be the best thing for this evolving squad. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Roster Changes INCOMING? | Who is the ODD Man Out? | Hannes Steinbach SHINES

  5. Jul 18

    Is Hannes Steinbach a rotation STAPLE? | Christian Anderson ball handling WOES | is it Tidjane TIME?

    Summer League has wrapped, but questions are just heating up for the Charlotte Hornets. On today’s episode, Walker Mehl and Evan Hale spotlight Hannes Steinbach’s impressive play, calling him possibly the most skilled center prospect the Hornets have drafted in over a decade—a “Steinlock” for the season rotation. They dig into how Steinbach’s all-around offensive game and high rebounding motor could reshape Charlotte’s frontcourt, especially alongside versatile new faces like Naz Reid and Grant Williams. But it’s not all smooth sailing. Christian Anderson’s struggles and strengths are scrutinized: his clever passing dazzles, but his slight frame and shooting inconsistencies raise concerns about handing him backup point guard duties this season. Walker and Evan outline why adding a proven veteran ball handler remains a top priority and explain the distinction between Charlotte's overarching backup point guard issue and Anderson’s long-term potential. As the hosts assess roster depth, Tidjane Salaun’s status comes into question. Can his flashes outweigh his inconsistency or is his grip on a roster spot fading with each standout moment from newer prospects like Michael Ajayi? The episode wraps with a rapid-fire look at Ajayi’s and Killian Boswell’s promise as two-way contributors and asks what the team’s “good problems” mean for former favorites in a suddenly deeper organization. Get the pulse on Charlotte’s most captivating summer storylines and where the team’s young talent stands before the season tips off. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Is Hannes Steinbach a rotation STAPLE? | Christian Anderson ball handling WOES | is it Tidjane TIME?

  6. Jul 17

    Charlotte Hornets GM REVEALS LaMelo Ball Trade Truths | Summer League Disappointment? | TV Changes

    Charlotte Hornets General Manager Jeff Peterson recently pulled back the curtain on the franchise's past reputation, candidly admitting the organization was once considered the laughing stock of the NBA. That raw honesty completely changes how to view recent front-office decisions, including the blockbuster trade that sent LaMelo Ball to the Minnesota Timberwolves. New details suggest that lingering frustration from a non-physical play-in tournament loss against the Orlando Magic ultimately pushed that franchise-altering deal over the finish line. Meanwhile, a rocky 1-3 stretch in Las Vegas sparks a fierce debate over whether Summer League was an absolute disappointment or a necessary step for long-term development. Seon James struggled to find a rhythm in an experimental on-ball point guard role, but Tidjane Salaün shined bright with a dominant 27-point performance and multiple double-doubles. Rookies Christian Andersen and Liam McNeely also flashed distinct signs of their high-upside potential, raising critical questions about how quickly this young core can truly mesh. Finally, the sudden collapse of FanDuel Sports Network forces an immediate decision regarding the future of Charlotte television broadcasts. The franchise faces a pivotal choice for the upcoming season: launch a paid streaming service or give fans free, local over-the-air access before the NBA centralizes local games into a streaming hub. Discover the direct truth behind the front office's strategy, the reality of the Summer League roster, and exactly how to watch Charlotte hoops this winter. 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 📲 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 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 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  7. Jul 16

    Hornets Summer League REVIEW | Who SHOWED OUT? | Who STUMBLED?

    Charlotte Hornets fans are in for a ride as summer league unveils both fresh hope and lingering questions. Liam McNeeley catches fire with an impressive shooting display, putting up nearly 30 points and nailing seven three-pointers in his debut, proving he could soon carve out a significant early-season role for Charlotte. Hannes Steinbach complements that performance with a monster 27-point, 15-rebound game, showing not only scoring ability but high basketball IQ and effort on both ends. However, it wasn’t all smooth sailing. Rookie Christian Anderson, recently drafted 18th overall, struggled with ball security and adapting to the pro level’s physicality—raising concerns about the Hornets’ current depth at point guard. Tidjane Salaun showed glimpses of brilliance but remains inconsistent, and the backup bigs failed to display the shooting range fans hoped to see. On the bright side, undrafted two-way signing Michael Ajayi stunned with his energy, versatile defense, and relentless rebounding—making himself a contender for early NBA minutes. Host Doug Branson, joined by Evan Hale, spotlights both the optimism and anxieties surrounding Charlotte’s young core, while evaluating necessary improvements and the surprises that might reshape the Hornets’ bench. Stay tuned as the episode covers the Hornets’ best summer league performances, areas needing urgent work, and which new face might become a fan favorite. Don’t miss analysis that every dedicated Charlotte basketball supporter will want to hear! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Hornets Summer League REVIEW | Who SHOWED OUT? | Who STUMBLED?

  8. Jul 14

    Jeff Peterson DEFENDS LaMelo Ball Trade To T-Wolves | Do We Buy It or Was It a Cheap Move?

    The Charlotte Hornets are officially turning the page. The massive trade sending LaMelo Ball to the Minnesota Timberwolves is finalized, and President of Basketball Operations Jeff Peterson faced the media to explain exactly why. This episode explores the underlying truth behind moving on from the franchise point guard. Peterson hammered home two concepts: long-term sustainability and roster flexibility. Keeping a star player with persistent injury issues and strict 27-minute restrictions simply did not fit the new vision. The discussion covers how those health hurdles forced the front office to protect Ball's trade value before finally pulling the trigger with Minnesota. The old guard is stepping aside, highlighted by Miles Bridges officially heading to the Phoenix Suns for Grayson Allen, Royce O'Neale, and future draft capital. Now, the spotlight shifts to the fresh faces. Naz Reid has been a primary target for this organization for a long time, and the front office expects him to thrive in an expanded role alongside Coby White, Brandon Miller, and Kon Knueppel. Was this just an ownership mandate to save money? Not according to Peterson. The episode unpacks the continuous, collaborative dialogue between the front office and the owners, proving this roster overhaul was not a spur-of-the-moment decision. The ultimate goal is winning actual playoff series, not just chasing a Play-In banner. Tune in to find out if these aggressive, franchise-altering moves are the true recipe for the sustained success Charlotte desperately needs. 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 📲 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 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 Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Betterhelp This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. BetterHelp makes it easy to get matched online with a qualified therapist.  Sign up and get 10% off at http://BetterHelp.com/LOCKEDONNBA. Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast 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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

See All (500)

4.6
out of 5
267 Ratings

About

Locked On Hornets podcast is your daily ticket to stay ahead of the game and the first to know the latest news, analysis, and insider info for the Charlotte Hornets and the NBA. Walker Mehl from WFNZ and Doug Branson, a writer at EveryHornetsBoxscore.com, provide expert, local analysis and intelligent takes on the Charlotte Hornets. Locked On Hornets takes you beyond the scoreboard for the inside scoops on the biggest stories from within the Hornets locker room and all over the NBA. The Locked On Hornets podcast is part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.

Information

More From Locked On Podcast Network

You Might Also Like