Doug reveals his top 10 options for the Charlotte Hornets in this jam-packed draft-focused episode of Locked On Hornets. Cooper Flagg and Dylan Harper top the list, but what follows will surprise you—especially Doug’s takes on Tre Johnson, Kon Kneuppel, and why Ace Bailey might not be the right fit despite his tantalizing upside. Walker and Doug debate fit vs. talent, especially when it comes to LaMelo Ball's backcourt future and Brandon Miller’s role moving forward.
The conversation also heats up around the Celtics' shocking collapse in the playoffs after blowing another massive lead. Is Charles Lee—now set to lead the Hornets—being missed in Boston more than people realize? We dive into how assistant coaches shape outcomes, and why fans in Charlotte should be cautiously optimistic about Lee’s arrival.
Later, the guys break down Adam Finkelstein’s latest mock draft, which has the Hornets taking Ace Bailey at No. 3. Is the upside too tempting to pass up—or are the passing numbers and shot selection too concerning? Plus: thoughts on trading back, potential 3-and-D targets, and the underrated value of players like Derik Queen and Carter Bryant.
Whether you're a draft junkie, a LaMelo loyalist, or just trying to survive another Celtics playoff meltdown, this episode has something for you.
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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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