SportSpyder - The Latest Charlotte Hornets Podcasts

NBA DRAFT DAY + WHERE THERE'S SMOKE...THERE'S FIRE! ITS THE NBA OFF SEASON

Bleav — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 02:36:00 GMT

BLEAV in Hornets with Will "Dolla Bill" Bush & KC Rivers is your go-to podcast for all things Charlotte Hornets. Hosted by William Bush, and co-host Kelvin "K.C." Rivers, this episode takes a look into today's NBA Draft, as we talk surprises, sleeper players and more! As well as taking a deep dive into the looming rumors of the exciting NBA offseason!!

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Hornets' Draft DECISIONS | Coby White SILENCE | Draft Trade POSSIBILITIES

Locked On Podcast Network — Mon, 22 Jun 2026 22:12:10 GMT

With the NBA Draft just a day away, the Charlotte Hornets are the epicenter of urgent speculation and uncertainty. This episode examines every twist in the Hornets’ winding path, from their endless draft options to the unsettling silence surrounding Coby White’s contract situation. Walker Mail and Doug Branson weigh the credibility of reports linking Charlotte to prospect Morez Johnson, whose surging value could force the front office into aggressive trade-up scenarios. The duo revisits the recurring name of Bennett Stirtz, analyzes draft board versatility with players like Steinbach and Cam Carr, and weighs whether moving up for an on-ball guard is suddenly more urgent if White walks.

But it’s not just about the draft: the conversation expands to strategic trade targets, including Daniel Gafford and Mitchell Robinson, pondering their fit and what it would cost to bring real rim protection or shooting into Charlotte’s frontcourt. Injury worries and the search for roster balance are front and center as the hosts take stock of viable backup point guard plans, value picks, and the risk of returning to old weaknesses. With crucial questions about team chemistry versus financial maneuvering drawing near, listeners get a well-informed, clear-sighted view of what’s at stake for the Hornets’ short- and long-term future. Don’t miss this comprehensive, fast-paced episode as Charlotte’s defining draft night looms.

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2026 Offseason Guide

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 09:50:47 GMT

Good Morning! The Charlotte Hornets will have the 14th and 18th selections in tomorrow’s NBA Draft, but let’s peek into what’s in store for free agency. Last offseason, I didn’t put out an iteration of this piece, but if you want to review my pieces from the previous three seasons, the links are below.

2024 Free Agency Piece
2023 Free Agency Piece
2022 Free Agency Piece

🔓 This piece will unlock for the public on Friday, June 26. For now, it’s only available for paid Buzz Beat Plus subscribers.

Key Dates

June 30: Teams are allowed to negotiate with free agents. While you won’t see anything officially released from team accounts, reports of potential signings will start to leak.

July 6: Starting at 12:01 PM EST, players can sign on the dotted line as the moratorium ends.

Key Terms

Cap Holds: Think of cap holds as placeholders for current free agents that take up a portion of the team’s cap room.1 They take up a percentage based on their previous year’s salary. These do not disappear until a player is signed or the team renounces the free agent. Sometimes it’s not beneficial to renounce free agents because the team loses their Bird Rights, a mechanism that allows teams to re-sign their free agents and still exceed the salary cap.

Exceptions: These mechanisms are for teams to use to acquire players while exceeding the salary cap. Teams cannot sign players who would take them over the cap unless they have an exception. Some of the more common exceptions that you will see teams use are Bird Rights and Mid-Level Exceptions (MLE).2

The Financial Situation in Charlotte

Excluding the Two-Way players, the Hornets currently have 12 players under contract.3 When you add the potential draft picks of 14 and 18 and the team option of Pat Connaughton, the team reaches 15 players. While the team can have 18 standard contracts over the summer, their flexibility for roster spots will be limited.

Krysten Peek

Sun, 21 Jun 2026 10:24:52 GMT

NBA.com and Hoops HQ’s Krysten Peek joins the show to discuss the Hornets’ draft outlook, including Charlotte’s evolving reputation across the league, the age debate in prospect evaluation, potential trade-up scenarios, and which top prospect could fall to No. 14. We also revisit the early Tidjane Salaün connection and share our final predictions for pi…

Top 10 FORGOTTON Hornets | Remembering Bobcats LEGENDS | 10th Anniversary SPECIAL

Locked On Podcast Network — Sat, 20 Jun 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Locked On Hornets celebrates the show and network’s 10th anniversary in style with a trip through Charlotte’s most forgotten NBA history! Max Murch of hoopgrids.com, the mind behind your favorite NBA trivia grids, joins Walker Mehl to unveil the definitive Top 10 list of players that fans forgot ever wore a Hornets or Bobcats uniform. From Steve Smith’s blink-and-miss run with the early Bobcats, Montrezl Harrell and Dennis Smith Jr.’s recent Charlotte stops, to the ultimate “wait, he played here?” names like Vernon Maxwell and Luke Ridnour, every selection comes with context and eye-popping stats. Hear behind-the-scenes stories about how these lists are built, how hoopgrids fiendishly balances challenge and fun, and why Max always saves his deepest trivia pulls for Charlotte’s painful Bobcats years. Listeners also get bonus honorable mentions, from NBA legends Robert Parish and Raja Bell to cult favorites like Earl Boykins. Max and Walker discuss which players truly shocked even the NBA-obsessed, and why these players’ Charlotte stints have slipped through the cracks. Plus: Max shares his path from law firm intern to NBA trivia master, the wildest grid lines he’s ever written, and the secret sauce behind finding that perfect obscurity for diehard fans. Whether you’re a long-time Hornets faithful or just love NBA history, this episode is your ultimate nostalgia trip—test your memory and laugh along at some of the quirkiest roster moments in Charlotte basketball lore!

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Coby White CONCERNS | Draft DREAMS and NIGHMARES | Who the Hornets should TARGET

Locked On Podcast Network — Fri, 19 Jun 2026 20:22:07 GMT

The future of Coby White with the Charlotte Hornets is suddenly uncertain as contract rumors swirl, prompting real concern among fans and front office decision-makers alike. Today's episode tackles the latest reports, industry speculation, and the impact of agent maneuvering on White’s value on the open market. Listeners hear candid analysis of whether $20–25 million per year is fair for the dynamic guard and what his loss could mean for Charlotte’s roster construction. The conversation then shifts to the NBA Draft, with the Hornets holding key selections at picks 14 and 18. Draft insights focus on the best- and worst-case scenarios, considering the value of wings versus guards in this class, and which prospects fit the Hornets’ needs for length, strength, and future playoff ambitions. Panelists also run through memorable moments marking Locked On Hornets’ 10-year milestone and reflect on what it means for the community. Plus, a spirited look at how the fan base is handling this tense offseason, advice from insiders on staying patient, and the role of hard-earned experience in draft strategy. Prepare to get informed, entertained, and ready for one of the most pivotal offseasons in recent Hornets history.

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Prospect Evals with Bryce Simon

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 09:31:13 GMT

Bryce Simon joins James to discuss whether the Hornets could follow a Pistons-like path to contention, debate the biggest risers and sleepers in the 2026 NBA Draft, and break down prospects linked to Charlotte at picks 14 and 18. Plus, we revisit our evaluations of Kon Knueppel, Jayden Quaintance, and several potential Hornets targets as draft season he…

The Charlotte Hornets and the Timing of Contention

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 11:31:58 GMT

Every fanbase dreams of the day its team pushes all its chips into the middle of the table and goes all-in for a championship. The endorphins of contention and the adrenaline of having everything to lose are intoxicating. It is thrilling, chaotic, and often short-lived.

Hornets president of basketball operations Jeff Peterson has made it clear he intends to avoid that trap.

“We can’t skip steps. Again, I’ve seen it too many times and it ends up not going the way that you think it goes, in terms of trying to speed things up. Look, we’ve made a ton of progress this season internally, and I’m excited because I know that’s going to continue to happen. But we’ll continue to be strategic and when the opportunity presents itself, I know we’ll be ready because of the flexibility that we have.”

Despite Charlotte going 33-17 in their last 50 games, the organisation is not overreacting. Watching their play-in loss and the level of physicality required deeper in the postseason made it clear there is still a gap to close.

Charlotte has the fourth-youngest roster in the NBA and several structural flaws. They do not have a player close to the top ten in the league, something most contenders historically rely on. Their frontcourt is undersized, their offensive core is perimeter-heavy, they lack consistent isolation scoring in the half-court, and they struggle to generate free throws. These are not issues that can be solved in a single move.

The temptation, of course, is to try anyway.

No single trade addresses all of those needs. While Charlotte’s future draft capital is among the strongest in the league, it is not unlimited. Before committing their chips to the middle of the table, the Hornets need confidence that the cards already in their hand are the right ones. There were clear signs of progress this past season, but there are still fundamental questions about the core. Questions that need to be answered, because without that clarity, there is a real risk of falling into the illusion of contention — the same trap that has caught so many teams before them.

What often derails teams is not ambition, but misreading where they are in their own timeline.

Report Card: Williams & Bridges

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 09:50:28 GMT

Richie returns to grade Grant Williams and Miles Bridges’ seasons. He examines their strengths on both ends of the court, their drawbacks, and concludes with a letter grade.

The 10th Anniversary EXTRAVAGANZA!! | Top 10 Show BITS | Top 10 WILLIAMS'

Locked On Podcast Network — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 02:14:02 GMT

Locked On Hornets is celebrating a massive milestone—the show’s 10th anniversary—by doing exactly what has kept fans tuning in for a decade: telling stories, sharing laughter, and honoring Hornets history in its own unique way. Walker Mehl and Doug Branson relive the unexpected longevity of the podcast, paying tribute to top fan-favorite moments and iconic inside jokes, from the birth of the “Sickos” moniker and chaotic lounge intros to ubiquitous bits like “Game Time” and infamous unfulfilled promises.

In this party episode, the hosts count down a tongue-in-cheek Top 10 of the best moments—plus just as many honorable mentions—and challenge each other with running gags and classic nostalgia. Meanwhile, Doug Branson delivers a definitive ranking of every player named “Williams” to ever suit up for the Hornets or Bobcats, with surprises, anecdotes from franchise deep cuts, and throwbacks to both legendary and forgotten stints in Charlotte.

This episode also shines a light on the colorful contributions of past co-hosts, celebrates the origins of bits that became part of LOH lore, and highlights what truly makes the fan community—especially the Sickos—so resilient and special. From discussing wild advertising found while researching former players to reminiscing about celebrations, hair transformations, and legendary on-air draft takes, the hosts remind listeners why Charlotte Hornets fans are a unique breed. Pour a drink at the Low Bar and join the celebration—this is one episode every Hornets fan, new or old, can't miss.

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2026 Mock Offseason

Blue Wire — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 09:15:00 GMT

Brian and Matt step into the Hornets’ front office, while James takes on the roles of the league’s other 29 teams and player agents throughout the negotiation process. The trio works through every stage of the offseason, including the NBA Draft, free agency, trade discussions, and veteran extension negotiations, to shape Charlotte’s path forward for 2026.

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2026 Mock Offseason

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 01:46:33 GMT

Hornets Mock Draft MANIA | Trade BUZZ Raising | FUTURE of the Frontcourt

Locked On Podcast Network — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 22:14:50 GMT

The NBA Draft is fast approaching and the Charlotte Hornets find themselves at the center of intrigue—armed with picks 14 and 18, a stash of young talent, and an appetite for taking the next step forward. This episode examines the latest Jeremy Woo mock draft, where international prospect Karim Lopez and Baylor’s Cameron Carr pop up as Hornets targets. There’s plenty of debate regarding whether Lopez’s raw skill set fits Charlotte’s win-now mindset, especially with more NBA-ready options like Hannes Steinbach potentially still on the board. Listeners will catch spirited discussion about what would constitute a nightmare draft scenario and why some outcomes could leave fans wanting more on draft night. The talk shifts to the rumor mill, with insights on trade buzz around expiring contracts—think Miles Bridges—and chatter about targeting established frontcourt options like Domantas Sabonis. Could the Hornets really move one of their first-rounders for immediate help? And what kind of impact would a bold move for someone like Chet Holmgren or Jaylen Brown have on this roster? The episode wraps by comparing Charlotte’s team-building approach to the Carolina Hurricanes’ championship recipe, pondering whether depth and chemistry can bridge the gap in a league where stars often determine titles. With humor, honesty, and a few lighthearted Charlotte-to-Raleigh jabs, it’s a comprehensive snapshot of a pivotal week for the Hornets’ franchise.

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Hornets Reflection with Tate Frazier

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 09:45:58 GMT

Tate Frazier of The Ringer joins James to reflect on the season while also looking ahead to the NBA Draft. Frazier dives deep into the available players in the 14-18 range, revealing why this class is one of the strongest in recent years. They discuss how Yaxel Lendeborg might be the versatile big the Hornets need, while Morez Johnson Jr. is a sleeper w…

Jeff Peterson talks STRATEGY | Domantas Sabonis move UPDATE | Gerald Wallace TALKS Michael Jordan

Locked On Podcast Network — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Is the Charlotte Hornets front office ready to swing for the fences? On today’s episode, Jeff Peterson’s revealing Woj Pod interview takes center stage, sparking fresh discussions about how the Hornets might finally crack the code of small market team building under new realities like NBA lottery reform. Listeners will hear why Peterson’s process-minded approach and strong relationships across the league could change the way Charlotte does business, and why simply “bottoming out” is no longer a viable shortcut for talent.

Hosts explore whether a bold move for a star like Domantas Sabonis—with or without including Miles Bridges—makes sense for the franchise. Detailed trade scenarios are discussed, emphasizing the importance of balancing present ambition with future draft capital, especially with a deep upcoming draft. Hear the rationale behind Charlotte’s possible targets at the center position, including names like Isaiah Hartenstein, Jarrett Allen, and even surprise options like Kristaps Porzingis or Brook Lopez, and discover why the center upgrade conversation has become urgent in Buzz City.

The show also revisits painful memories from the Gerald Wallace trade, using his heartfelt reflections to contrast the Bobcats’ old regime with this new Hornets era under Rick Schnall, Gabe Plotkin, and Peterson. Through candid debate and big-picture analysis, this episode offers Charlotte fans crucial insight on what it will take to elevate the Hornets to real playoff contenders—and why who stays or goes this summer could define the next decade.

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NBA FINALS GAME 3-4 RECAP + TERRY ROZIER NEWS & GAME 5 PREVIEWS

Bleav — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 14:33:00 GMT

BLEAV in Hornets with Will "Dolla Bill" Bush is your go-to podcast for all things Charlotte Hornets. Hosted by William Bush. Joined by Kelvin "K.C." Rivers, this episode breaks down games 3 and 4 of the NBA Finals, and previewing Game 5. While providing the latest news In the Terry Rosier trial.

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Charles Lee's Offseason Plans LEAK | New Hornets ERA | NBA Finals LESSONS

Locked On Podcast Network — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Does Charles Lee want veterans, or is he committed to developing young talent for the Hornets’ next step? This episode, Walker Mehl, Doug Branson, and Evan Hale examine the mindset of the Hornets’ new head coach and how it might differ from GM Jeff Peterson’s approach, especially given Lee’s history with player development-driven franchises like Milwaukee and Boston. Together, they consider whether Charlotte’s future hinges on spreading talent across the roster instead of chasing a singular superstar.

The conversation moves front office, with a spotlight on the Schlotkin ownership—Rick Schnall and Gabe Plotkin—and what their leadership rotation could mean for the team’s continued progress. The group discusses how the Hornets’ new competence and stability are changing Charlotte’s reputation among NBA franchises, potentially making it a more attractive destination for players and stars.

Finally, the show zooms out to capture takeaways from the NBA Finals, focusing on what the Hornets' staff—and their young core—can learn about maturity, offensive diversity, and role definition in high-stakes moments. The guys talk player mentality, coaching poise, and why the right kind of organizational culture matters as Charlotte eyes its first real taste of NBA playoff success.

Hear how depth, shooting, and mental resilience in the Finals set a blueprint for the Hornets’ next chapter.

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The Reinvention of Miles Bridges

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 15:42:34 GMT

When looking back at the Charlotte Hornets’ 2025–26 season, several storylines stand out. Kon Knueppel’s record-breaking rookie year. LaMelo Ball’s shift away from a heliocentric style. Brandon Miller playing through an injury. The immediate impact of rookies Ryan Kalkbrenner and Sion James. Moussa Diabaté’s relentless energy — and of course, his signature antlers celebration.

What may be overlooked, however, is how Miles Bridges quietly reshaped his game to help it all work.

Report Card: Knueppel

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 09:30:33 GMT

Richie returns to grade Kon Knueppel’s rookie season. He looks at his strengths on both ends of the court, his drawbacks, and concludes with a letter grade.

Domantas Sabonis TRADE RUMORS? | Defensive CONCERNS | Miles Bridges FUTURE?

Locked On Podcast Network — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 16:00:00 GMT

In today’s episode, the Charlotte Hornets are front and center as trade rumors swirl around a potential acquisition of All-Star center Domantas Sabonis. With new reports linking Charlotte to Sacramento’s star big man, the discussion heats up over exactly what it would take to bring Sabonis to the Queen City—especially if retaining both of this year’s coveted first-round picks is a priority for the front office. The hosts analyze the latest updates from league insiders Sam Amick and Michael Scotto, weighing the likelihood and value of a trade package centered around Miles Bridges, Josh Green, and the No. 18 draft pick.

The potential fit of Sabonis next to Lamelo Ball, Brandon Miller, and promising bigs like Moussa Diabate also gets significant attention, as offensive firepower must be balanced with defensive needs. Is Sabonis' shooting surge for real? Could this move push the Hornets firmly into playoff contention, or would it come with too great a sacrifice in assets or cap flexibility? The team’s salary structure, upcoming free agency with Coby White, and the lingering question of Miles Bridges' leadership and role are all on the table.

In the second half, listeners get a nod to Charlotte legends as Gerald Wallace is celebrated ahead of his ceremonial first pitch for the Charlotte Knights. Don’t miss this comprehensive look at the Hornets’ most pivotal offseason questions and the moves that could reshape their future.

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Profile: Cenac, Steinbach, Quaintance, Mara, Johnson

Blue Wire — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 09:15:00 GMT

Brian and Darian break down five NBA prospects at the center position. The two discuss the strengths, weaknesses, and team fit, while also revealing how strongly they’d covet each prospect. The players discussed on this episode are Chris Cenac, Hannes Steinbach, Jayden Quaintance, Aday Mara, and Morez Johnson.

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Profile: Cenac, Steinbach, Quaintance, Mara, Johnson

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 00:46:18 GMT

Miles Bridges on the MOVE? | Tidjane Salaun WATCH | Who is the FUTURE LEADER of the Hornets?

Locked On Podcast Network — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Locked On Hornets is back fishing for answers as rumors swirl about Miles Bridges’ future with the Charlotte Hornets. The latest report out of the NBA media world hints that Bridges could be available on the trade market. What does this mean for the team’s chemistry, and what kind of package would actually convince Charlotte’s front office to pull the trigger? The episode navigates the fine line between insider reports and speculation, laying out the contractual and locker room factors that could influence any decision.

Discussion also turns to the team’s search for stability and culture as the Hornets’ young core, including Kon Knueppel and LaMelo Ball, continue to grow. The hosts examine potential scenarios: if the Hornets draft a forward like Yaxel Lendeborg or Morez Johnson, would that increase the odds of dealing Bridges—or is his leadership too valuable to lose just yet?

Rising stars aren’t forgotten, with Tidjane Salaun featured as a possible X-factor for the coming season. The show explores what will be required for Tidjane to win a consistent rotation spot and how veterans like Grant Williams shape the development curve for Charlotte’s younger role players. Brief banter touches on summer league storylines, podcast history, and candid moments from behind the scenes. Locked On Hornets keeps Hornets fans prepared for every twist in the roster conversation as the NBA offseason heats up.

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Hornets SHAKE UP Big search | Beef Stew or Beef SQUASHED | Mock Draft SURPRISE!!!

Locked On Podcast Network — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Could the Charlotte Hornets shake up their frontcourt in a big way this offseason? In this episode, all eyes are on Isaiah "Beef Stew" Stewart as rumors swirl about a potential pursuit despite his heated history with Lamelo Ball and teammates. Hosts debate whether winning would smooth over past locker room conflicts, and if adding Stewart, Mitchell Robinson, or yet another center from the NBA Draft could give Charlotte the physical presence it needs.

Mock drafts are generating buzz: names like Morez Johnson from Michigan and analytics darling Allen Graves from Santa Clara are hot in Hornets' circles. The conversation gets into what the front office—known for statistical smarts—is really seeking this year, and why chemistry could matter more than ever in today's NBA. There's also some light-hearted talk about which "villains" Hornets fans might forgive if it meant a winning record, plus a look at prospects that might make a better fit in teal and purple.

For listeners craving the latest on trade rumors, locker room drama, and key decisions heading into draft night, this episode delivers sharp insights and some laughs along the way. Whether you're a die-hard fan or an NBA insider, catch the latest pulse on the Hornets’ roster plans and the big questions facing the team's future.

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Around the Horn(ets)

Blue Wire — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 09:15:00 GMT

Richie moderates a debate between Brian, Matt, and James on some polarizing topics concerning the Hornets’ upcoming draft. The three share their thoughts on consolidating picks, avoiding guards in the draft, Morez Johnson Jr., and much more.

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