Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron – Episode: Hour 1: Stuck in LA (Released July 13, 2025)

Hosts: Matt Jones and Myron Medcalf
Outlet: ESPN Radio

Introduction and Setting the Stage

The episode kicks off with Matt Jones and Myron Medcalf delving into the dynamic and often tumultuous landscape surrounding the Los Angeles Lakers, focusing primarily on LeBron James's future with the team amidst strategic shifts towards Luka Doncic.

Main Discussion: The Future of LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers

Dominance and Transition:

A significant portion of the conversation centers on the shifting power dynamics within the Lakers organization. The hosts discuss the Lakers' strategic pivot towards building the team around Luka Doncic, potentially signaling a dethronement of LeBron James as the central figure.

• Andrew Salchunas (Guest Host):
  "The Lakers have made it clear that Luka Doncic is now the focal point of their long-term strategy... The King has been dethroned." [03:38]

LeBron’s Autonomy and Lakers' Strategy:

Matt and Myron explore whether LeBron James still holds the same level of influence over the Lakers' decisions as he did in previous years.

• Matt Jones:
  "It doesn't feel like he has control at all. The Lakers are saying this is the last year with LeBron and us." [04:34-04:43]

• Andrew Salchunas:
  "The Lakers are planning for the future with Luka Doncic and not necessarily the future with LeBron James." [05:35]

Contractual Nuances and Trade Speculations:

They delve into the contractual aspects, noting that the Lakers opted not to extend LeBron's contract beyond the current season, which may indicate the organization's preference to move forward without him.

• Matt Jones:
  "The Lakers are saying we don't want you to stay... From there, it's going to be Luka entirely as the new face of the Lakers." [04:34-05:35]

LeBron’s Response and Public Perception:

The conversation touches upon LeBron James's public statements (or lack thereof) regarding his future, emphasizing his reluctance to address rumors directly.

• Matt Jones:
  "I asked LeBron just before tip off if he'd like to join the broadcast... he told me, 'I ain't got nothing to talk about.'" [10:09-10:25]

Analytical Insights:

The hosts provide their analysis on whether the Lakers' approach is justified, comparing it to other sports legends' transitions, such as Tom Brady with the Patriots.

• Matt Jones:
  "It's the only move. The same way it was the only move for the Patriots and Tom Brady." [15:32-16:37]

Celebrity Interview: Harry Douglas on Sports and Competitive Spirit

Transitioning from basketball to a more light-hearted segment, the hosts welcome Atlanta celebrity Harry Douglas to discuss his recent participation in a celebrity softball game.

Softball Game Highlights:

Harry shares his experiences and anecdotes from the game, highlighting the competitive nature among the participants.

• Harry Douglas:
  "In the last inning, we were up a few runs. So me, to, and Quavo all went to the outfield... we just gotta find a way to get it done." [24:33-26:02]

Reflections on Age and Competition:

Harry reflects on the dynamics of playing in such events, emphasizing the importance of competitive spirit regardless of age.

• Harry Douglas:
  "My message to everyone living in this world right now... don't waste [your time]." [26:32-27:00]

MLB Spotlight: Cal Raleigh's Historic Home Run Chase

Shifting focus to Major League Baseball, Matt and Myron engage in a passionate discussion about Cal Raleigh's pursuit of Barry Bonds' home run record, juxtaposing it with the steroid era's shadow.

Cal Raleigh vs. Steroid-Era Greats:

The hosts debate the legitimacy and recognition of Raleigh's achievements compared to those of Bonds, Sammy Sosa, and Mark McGuire.

• Matt Jones:
  "Cal Raleigh isn't getting more attention right now considering what he's achieved by the All Star." [37:04]

• Myron Medcalf:
  "He's bringing so much to the table... Aaron Judge is so superior over everybody as a hitter." [43:14-43:59]

Public Perception and Media Coverage:

They critique the lack of enthusiasm and media attention towards Raleigh's accomplishments, attributing it to the lingering cynicism from the steroid era.

• Matt Jones:
  "We were just in awe of what we were watching and we celebrated it. We weren't saying, 'What if this doesn't'?" [42:17-42:54]

• Andrew Salchunas:
  "I don't think people expect that out of a catcher this late into a season." [40:20]

Fan Engagement and Future Implications:

The discussion extends to how fans and the media engage with such records and the implications for the future of the catcher position in baseball.

• Andrew Salchunas:
  "Why aren't we celebrating a guy like Cal Raleigh who could break Bonds record potentially without any of that stuff?" [38:21]

Conclusion and Forward Look

As the episode wraps up, Matt and Myron tease upcoming segments, including discussions on potential record-breaking achievements and a sneak peek into future guest appearances.

• Andrew Salchunas:
  "Coming up next, why aren't we talking more about a record potentially being broken this summer? We talk about it next here on Sunday morning on ESPN Radio." [34:32]

Key Takeaways

1. Lakers' Strategic Shift: The Los Angeles Lakers are increasingly focusing on building the team around Luka Doncic, potentially sidelining LeBron James as the central figure.

2. LeBron James's Limited Control: Unlike previous years, LeBron appears to have diminished influence over team decisions, with the organization clearly prioritizing long-term strategies centered on younger talent.

3. Cal Raleigh's Historic Pursuit: In MLB, Cal Raleigh's pursuit of Barry Bonds' home run record is both commendable and overshadowed by past steroid controversies, leading to a debate on public recognition and legacy.

4. Celebrity Engagement in Sports: The inclusion of Harry Douglas provided a lighter perspective on competitive sports, emphasizing the universal drive to win regardless of the setting.

5. Future Discussions Teased: The hosts indicate further exploration of record-breaking sports achievements and implications for various players in upcoming episodes.

Notable Quotes

• “The King has been dethroned.” – Andrew Salchunas [03:38]

• “It doesn't feel like he has control at all.” – Matt Jones [04:34]

• “Cal Raleigh isn't getting more attention right now considering what he's achieved by the All Star.” – Matt Jones [37:04]

• “He's doing everything as a catcher and a switch hitter and leading that staff.” – Myron Medcalf [43:14]

This episode of "Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron" offers deep dives into pivotal sports narratives, blending analysis with engaging conversations, making it a must-listen for avid sports enthusiasts seeking comprehensive insights into the ever-evolving world of sports.