Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron – Episode Summary: "Hour 1: Changing of the Guard?"

Release Date: May 4, 2025

Introduction

In this engaging episode of "Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron", hosts Matt Jones and Myron Medcalf delve deep into the latest developments in the NBA playoffs. Titled "Changing of the Guard?", the discussion primarily revolves around the dramatic Game 7 matchups between the Los Angeles Clippers and Denver Nuggets, as well as the Golden State Warriors facing the Houston Rockets. The conversation is enriched with insights from guest analysts Courtney Cronin, Evan Cohen, and NBA veteran Stephen A. Smith.

Clippers vs. Nuggets Game 7 Recap

The episode kicks off with a heated analysis of the Clippers' unexpected collapse against the Nuggets. Hosts express their frustration over the Clippers' inability to capitalize on their advantages throughout the series.

• Courtney Cronin reveals her disdain:

  "The Clippers absolutely gagged away Game seven and let's be frank, they gagged away the entire series." (01:02)

• Evan Cohen emphasizes the disappointment in James Harden's performance:

  "James Harden, a no-show act in a do-or-die situation in another Game 7 series... Low seven points for him on two of eight shooting." (02:23)

• Clippers' Head Coach Ty Lue reflects on the loss:

  "We didn't really get into them, get closer to the guys and have that pressure." (03:01)

The hosts critique Kawhi Leonard's subdued performance, highlighting his lack of impact compared to his playoff reputation.

Courtney Cronin:
"We have to look at the totality of the Kawhi Leonard era for the Clippers... he has been the playoff killer everyone expects, and he did not deliver." (06:13)

Warriors vs. Rockets Game 7 Preview

Transitioning to the upcoming Warriors vs. Rockets Game 7, the discussion shifts to strategizing and potential outcomes.

• Stephen A. Smith predicts a Steph Curry-centric game:

  "My gut feeling for tonight is it's a Steph Curry game or they lose." (11:41)

• Brandon Leak underscores the Rockets' rebounding dominance:

  "They have been absolutely monsters on the board." (28:07)

• Courtney Cronin analyzes the Warriors' defensive challenges:

  "The Warriors need to come up. They are the team that's going to have to make the adjustments." (30:58)

The conversation highlights the Rockets' strategic use of a modified zone defense and questions the Warriors' ability to overcome these tactics without their traditional shooting prowess.

Player Performance Analysis

A significant portion of the episode focuses on individual performances and their impact on the teams' fortunes.

• James Harden: Continues to be a point of contention with his low performance in crucial games.

• Kawhi Leonard: Criticized for not meeting the high expectations set during his tenure with the Clippers.

  Courtney Cronin:
  "He needs to have dominated this game and give me some sort of effort." (06:13)

• Steph Curry and Jimmy Butler: Praised for their experience and ability to take over games in high-pressure situations.

  Courtney Cronin:
  "The experience of Stephen Curry, Game 7... Jimmy Butler went into Boston, beat them in the Game 7." (35:37)

Changing of the Guard in the NBA

A central theme of the episode is the shift in NBA leadership, suggesting a transition from established stars to emerging talents.

• Courtney Cronin discusses Anthony Edwards' rise:

  "Anthony Edwards has been knocking off superstars one by one... He's the icon slayer." (40:38)

• Stephen A. Smith adds depth by comparing Edwards to past NBA greats:

  "There's never been anybody like him. He is completely unfazed in these moments." (19:16)

The hosts ponder whether the NBA is witnessing the end of an era dominated by veterans like Steph Curry and LeBron James, ushering in a new generation of stars eager to make their mark.

Conclusions and Future Implications

As the episode draws to a close, Matt and Myron reflect on the potential outcomes of the current playoff series and their broader implications for the NBA landscape.

• Brandon Leak posits the possibility of a new era in the NBA:

  "Is there a changing of the guard taking place right before our eyes?" (38:03)

• Courtney Cronin emphasizes the importance of team dynamics over individual accolades:

  "Anthony Edwards has told you he doesn't want to be the face of the league... He just wants to be who he is, which is a great player." (43:59)

The hosts conclude by speculating on how the outcomes of these Game 7s could redefine team strategies and player legacies moving forward.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Courtney Cronin on the Clippers' collapse:

  "The Clippers absolutely gagged away Game seven and let's be frank, they gagged away the entire series." (01:02)

• Evan Cohen critiquing James Harden:

  "James Harden, a no-show act in a do-or-die situation in another Game 7 series." (02:23)

• Stephen A. Smith on Steph Curry's impact:

  "My gut feeling for tonight is it's a Steph Curry game or they lose." (11:41)

• Courtney Cronin on Kawhi Leonard:

  "He needs to have dominated this game and give me some sort of effort." (06:13)

• Brandon Leak on Anthony Edwards:

  "Anthony Edwards has been knocking off superstars one by one... He's the icon slayer." (40:38)

Conclusion

"Changing of the Guard?" offers a comprehensive exploration of pivotal moments in the NBA playoffs, dissecting team performances, player impacts, and the evolving dynamics of league leadership. Through insightful analysis and compelling discussions, Matt and Myron provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of the current state and future trajectory of professional basketball.