Is Charlotte sticking at #4 or setting up a surprise? On this episode of Locked On Hornets, Doug Branson and Walker Mehl react to new reporting from Matt Moore and Krysten Peek that sheds light on what the Hornets might do with their top-5 pick. Could the team trade down and still grab a top shooter like Kon Knueppel? Would passing on VJ Edgecombe signal a new direction—or just smart scouting?

Moore intel: https://hardwoodparoxysm.substack.com/p/free-agency-and-draft-rumors-panic

Peek intel: https://www.hoopshq.com/nba-draft/nba-draft-intel-latest

Doug argues that Knueppel’s elite shooting and IQ make him a plug-and-play piece next to LaMelo Ball, while Walker warns of the risks in moving back too far and ending up with leftovers. They also dive into whether veterans like Grant Williams or Miles Bridges could be trade bait as Charlotte eyes long-term flexibility—and why injuries and lack of postseason reps are stalling trade talks.

Later, they assess the rising stock of Kasparas Jakucionis and whether his all-around skillset makes sense at #4 or only in a trade-down scenario. If Charlotte takes Jakucionis or Knueppel, does that mean LaMelo is staying—or going?

This episode is packed with draft theories, fit analysis, and the kind of Hornets chaos that only June can bring.

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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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