NBA SEASON PREVIEW: Hornets outlook for the Eastern Conference

The local experts from the Locked On NBA Channel kick off the Locked On NBA Squad Show East by breaking down which team the Eastern Conference runs through after major injuries to the Boston Celtics and Indiana Pacers. Join Nick Angstadt, Tony East (Locked On Pacers), Gavin Schall (Locked On Knicks), Philip Rossman-Reich (Locked On Magic), David Ramil (Locked On Heat), and a cameo from Matt Moore (Locked On NBA) as they debate if the New York Knicks or Cleveland Cavaliers are the true favorites, analyzing their playoff track records, roster upgrades, and coaching changes. The conversation explores how Orlando Magic, with Desmond Bane, fits into the East's hierarchy, and whether the Atlanta Hawks’ revamped roster can climb into the contender tier. They also discuss Milwaukee’s current scenario with Giannis Antetokounmpo and if a mid-season trade is possible, consider the competitive outlook of other squads like Detroit Pistons and Philadelphia 76ers, and share insights on projected playoff matchups and depth across the conference. Throughout the episode, the hosts offer spirited analysis and big takes about the evolving landscape of the NBA’s Eastern Conference. 0:00 East Preview: Knicks vs. Cavs Favorites 9:16 Cleveland Roster Optimizations 12:04 Giannis' Future and Milwaukee's Playoff Scenarios 16:43 Knicks Trade Assets and Giannis Value 19:31 Orlando Magic: True #3 in East? 22:09 Sixers & Embiid Health Doubts 25:26 Atlanta Hawks' Offseason Moves 33:45 Detroit Pistons: Underrated Threat 36:15 Heat’s Best-Case Scenario 42:06 Toronto Raptors’ Depth and Playoff Potential 46:04 Charlotte Hornets: Lamelo’s Development 48:32 Wizards’ Youth Movement and Veteran Influence 49:55 Brooklyn Nets: Worst Team in East? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. Wayfair Get organized, refreshed, and back to routine for way less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Peloton Let yourself run, lift, flex, and push forward. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ today at https://www.onepeloton.com . Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at https://monarchmoney.com/lockedonnba for 50% off your first year FanDuel Right now, new customers can bet just FIVE dollars and if your bet wins—you’ll get THREE HUNDRED dollars in bonus bets to use across the app. Download the FanDuel app now by visiting https://FanDuel.com to get started FANDUEL DISCLAIMER : 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.