Buzz Beat: A Charlotte Hornets Pod

Richie and Matt take a closer look at the Hornets’ group of young players and how they’ve performed early on. The two share thoughts on Tidjane Salaün’s development, Kon Knueppel’s well-rounded game, Sion James’ early impact, Ryan Kalkbrenner's defensive presence, and Liam McNeeley. They end on a high note and share a couple of things that are going well for Charlotte as a team. Film Findings: The Shallow Cut Buzz Beat Store 20% Code: RF6W4NNEKB Buzz Beat PlusCheck it out here 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 react to the latest on Brandon Miller’s injury and what his absence means for Charlotte’s rotation. The two also share what they’ve liked (and haven’t) from the Hornets through the first three games. They wrap by giving their thoughts on the recent investigation involving Terry Rozier. Buzz Beat PlusCheck it out here Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this postgame edition, Richie quickly recaps the exciting season-opening win over the Brooklyn Nets. He highlights the unselfish play, the pace of play, and summarizes all the key player performances. Buzz Beat Store RF6W4NNEKB Buzz Beat PlusCheck it out here 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, Spencer returns to preview the upcoming season with Brian and Matt. The three share thoughts on the offensive philosophies, the debate between Kalkbrenner and Diabaté, the case for LaMelo’s All-Star campaign, intriguing lineups, and more! The Hive Five Buzz Beat PlusCheck it out here Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

James and Matt react to the recent Spencer Dinwiddie waiver. The two discuss whether the news was surprising and the implications of this transactional move for other Hornets on the roster. survey Buzz Beat PlusCheck it out here Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

With the preseason in full swing, Brian and James recap the recent GM survey and evaluate which players have raised their stock over the course of three games. The two also reflect on the other end of the spectrum and discuss whose stock has fallen. Complete this survey Buzz Beat PlusCheck it out here 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, we dive into the opening game of the preseason vs. the Thunder. Richie and Brian tackle the defensive issues that plagued the team, the diversity of big men on the roster, and the standout performance of Kon Knueppel. Follow @BuzzBeatPod on X (Twitter) and don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-Star Review! NOW AVAILABLE: 2025-26 Roster Guide Buzz Beat Plus Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Richie and Matt highlight the key moments from Charlotte Hornets Media Day. They focus on important quotes about team dynamics, the center rotation, the team’s strategy to play faster, and leadership roles. Buzz Beat Plus 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, 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. Buzz Beat Plus 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? Buzz Beat Plus 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. Buzz Beat Plus

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. Buzz Beat Plus

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. Buzz Beat Plus

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. Buzz Beat Plus

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 on which one was the most detrimental, but also share the best move in the last handful of years. Buzz Beat Plus

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. Buzz Beat Plus

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. Buzz Beat Plus

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. Buzz Beat Plus

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. Buzz Beat Plus

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.