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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
BONUS SNIPPET | James, Brian, Darian, and Matt use a random wheel to begin their discussion on prospects. When it landed on a specific number, the co-hosts were required to use their personal “Big Board” to talk about that player ranked at that position. The numbers generated for this exercise were 10, 12, 14, 20, 21, 25, 27, and 33.For the full episode, please 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.
Brian, James, and Darian try to separate fact from fiction with the latest draft pick intel. A lot hinges on what Philadelphia will do with the third selection. We analyze the scenarios and how each has a ripple effect on the Hornets. We share our current thoughts on the top prospects expected to be available with the fourth pick. 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.
Richie joins Mac and T-Bone on WFNZ to share his thoughts on the Hornets’ offseason. They discuss several prospects available with the 4th overall pick and the road to success as a small-market team. 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.