Buzz Beat: A Charlotte Hornets Pod

In this episode of Buzz Beat, we’re getting you ready for training camp! We’re diving into the players with the most on the line this season and talent poised to break out. We’ll also break down the strategies coaches are prioritizing. Be sure to check out Buzz Beat Plus for ad-free and exclusive episodes, Q&A sessions in the Substack chat, written content, and much more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brian and James dive into Charlotte’s center rotation and what it could look like throughout the season. The two also tackle the bigger picture question: at what point should the Hornets consider making a win-now trade? Be sure to check out Buzz Beat Plus for ad-free and exclusive episodes, Q&A sessions in the Substack chat, written content, and much more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Buzz Beat, Richie takes a closer look at the Charlotte Hornets’ shooting guard rotation heading into the season. A big part of the conversation centers on the debate between Sexton and Knueppel for the starting spot. He makes the case for both players, weighing experience, fit, and upside as he examines what each brings to the lineup. Be sure to check out Buzz Beat Plus for ad-free and exclusive episodes, Q&A sessions in the Substack chat, written content, and much more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of Buzz Beat, Richie takes a closer look at Tidjane Salaün and examines whether the rookie forward could be the biggest X-Factor for the Charlotte Hornets this season. He also talks about other swing pieces for the 2025-26 season, including Brandon Miller, Tre Mann, and Ryan Kalkbrenner. Be sure to check out Buzz Beat Plus for ad-free and exclusive episodes, Q&A sessions in the Substack chat, written content, and much more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Darian and Matt answer listener questions about expected personnel moves, play-in hopes, and the 2026 NBA Draft. To conclude the episode, the two draft a three-man team of French-speaking Bobcats and Hornets players. Be sure to check out Buzz Beat Plus for ad-free and exclusive episodes, Q&A sessions in the Substack chat, written content, and much more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Richie and Brian respond to listeners’ questions about LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, and the second unit. The crew discusses Ball’s ability to contribute to winning basketball, the center depth chart, and the expectations surrounding Miller heading into this third year. Be sure to check out Buzz Beat Plus for ad-free and exclusive episodes, Q&A sessions in the Substack chat, written content, and much more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Richie, Darian, Brian, and James share thoughts on Brandon Miller’s wrist, the two-way contract of Antonio Reeves, and contemplate Charlotte’s worst roster mistakes since 2020. The four weigh their options to determine which one was the most detrimental, but also share the best move of the last handful of years.   Be sure to check out Buzz Beat Plus for ad-free and exclusive episodes, Q&A sessions in the Substack chat, written content, and much more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Richie, Darian, and Brian recap the championship run from the Charlotte Hornets in Vegas. They highlight the play of Kon Knueppel, Ryan Kalkbrenner, KJ Simpson, and Tidjane Salaün. To end the episode, they quickly present their depth chart for the upcoming season. Be sure to check out Buzz Beat Plus for ad-free and exclusive episodes, Q&A sessions in the Substack chat, written content, and much more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In Part 1 Brian, Matt, and James break down Kon Knueppel’s breakout performance, takeaways from Dallas-Charlotte and discuss Charlotte’s 3-0 Summer League run. In Part 2 (21 min) they each unveil their top six ranked players from least to most impressive from Summer League (so far).Subscribe to the Buzz Beat Substack for written posts, an engaged Hornets community and to explore the bonuses of our Buzz Beat + membership. Be sure to check out Buzz Beat Plus for ad-free and exclusive episodes, Q&A sessions in the Substack chat, written content, and much more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Richie analyzes footage of Collin Sexton in a game against the Pistons. He examines Sexton's strengths and how he gets his buckets. He also points out the actions that would benefit him in a Charlotte Hornets jersey. There's an accompanying video available on our Buzz Beat Substack. Be sure to check out Buzz Beat Plus for ad-free and exclusive episodes, Q&A sessions in the Substack chat, written content, and much more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brian and James preview the Las Vegas Summer League and discuss what we can expect from specific Hornets. They talk about which players they’re eager to watch, who has the most to prove, and who might earn a two-way contract. Be sure to check out Buzz Beat Plus for ad-free and exclusive episodes, Q&A sessions in the Substack chat, written content, and much more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Richie, James, and Matt recap the recent moves from the Charlotte Hornets to start free agency. The three chat about the makeup of the 15-man roster, Josh Okogie’s non-guaranteed contract, the uncertain status of Tre Mann, and the acquisitions of Mason Plumlee and Pat Connaughton.NOTE: This was recorded 1 hour before Tre Mann agreed to a 3-year deal. Be sure to check out Buzz Beat Plus for ad-free and exclusive episodes, Q&A sessions in the Substack chat, written content, and much more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Richie joins Kyle Bailey of WFNZ to chat about Charlotte’s offseason. The two discuss the draft, free agent options, and what the Hornets do with Tre Mann. Be sure to check out Buzz Beat Plus for ad-free and exclusive episodes, Q&A sessions in the Substack chat, written content, and much more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Richie goes LIVE on Substack to discuss free agency and review the acquisition of Collin Sexton. He talks about the cap sheet, free agency priorities, and breaks down Sexton’s offensive and defensive game. Be sure to check out Buzz Beat Plus for ad-free and exclusive episodes, Q&A sessions in the Substack chat, written content, and much more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brian, Matt, and Darian share their analysis of Kon Knueppel, the 4th overall pick for the Charlotte Hornets. This was originally released on May 27, but the information remains relevant as they discuss both offensive and defensive aspects and some of his underrated skills. Be sure to check out Buzz Beat Plus for ad-free and exclusive episodes, Q&A sessions in the Substack chat, written content, and much more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

James, Matt, Brian and Darian react to Charlotte's selections of Sion James and Ryan Kalkbrennar in the early second round. The group also discuss Charlotte's shift in draft philosophy and share their overall grades for the Hornets' 2025 draft class. Be sure to check out Buzz Beat Plus for ad-free and exclusive episodes, Q&A sessions in the Substack chat, written content, and much more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

BONUS SNIPPET | Richie invites Yossi Gozlan of the Third Apron to prepare Hornets fans for free agency, beginning June 30. The two highlight some of the salary cap minutiae, chat about Tre Mann’s free agency, and mention potential moves Charlotte can make this offseason.For the full episode, visit Buzz Beat Plus.  Be sure to check out Buzz Beat Plus for ad-free and exclusive episodes, Q&A sessions in the Substack chat, written content, and much more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brian, Darian, and James recap Charlotte’s first round of the 2025 NBA Draft. The three evaluate Kon Knueppel’s game and whether his ceiling warrants the 4th overall pick. After acquiring the 29th pick in a trade involving Mark Williams, they get a chance to break down Liam McNeeley’s game. Be sure to check out Buzz Beat Plus for ad-free and exclusive episodes, Q&A sessions in the Substack chat, written content, and much more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Darian, Matt, and Brian help forecast the top six picks of the NBA Draft. With the team-specific selections from Drew Johnson (Dallas), Adam Aaronson (Philadelphia), and Noah Magaro-George (San Antonio), they were able to weigh their options at the fourth overall pick. To end the episode, the three put together a pie chart with all the possibilities for Charlotte’s pick.🚨 Special Offer Link: Buzz Beat+ for $60 annually ($15 less with all the same perks!)Must redeem by June 27, 2025 Be sure to check out Buzz Beat Plus for ad-free and exclusive episodes, Q&A sessions in the Substack chat, written content, and much more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brian, James, and Matt discuss some of the lesser-discussed prospects. While they aren’t projected to go fourth overall, the crew discusses Collin Murray-Boyles of South Carolina, Jeremiah Fears of Oklahoma, and Duke's Khaman Maluach.Richie also spends 10 minutes sharing his thoughts on Game 5 of the NBA Finals. Be sure to check out Buzz Beat Plus for ad-free and exclusive episodes, Q&A sessions in the Substack chat, written content, and much more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.