
Hour 3: The Biggest Trade EVER?
Loading summary
UberEats Advertiser
Whether you're ordering wings for the game, whipping up a seven layer dip, or ordering pizza, there's something about football that makes you want to eat. And this football season, UberEats has the best deals on game day food, no matter what you're craving. From two for one pizza. To buy one, get one wings. Uber Eats will be dropping new deals each week all season long. Uber Eats official on demand delivery partner of the NFL. Order now. Terms and conditions apply. The app for details.
Matt Jones
This is Matt and Myon, the podcast.
Myron Metcalf
I'm ready to play football. I've been waiting a long time for this moment. This moment.
Nick
Time is here. The time is now.
Matt Jones
This is the countdown to kickoff on ESPN Radio.
Nick
It is Canada Kickoff here on ESPN Radio at ESPN Radio. On Twitter Metcalf by ESPN he's my Metcalf. I'm Matt Jones, presented by Progressive Insurance. We've told you a lot about the trade, about everything else going on, but there's other headlines happening in the world of sports. That's why it's time for some Sunday morning headlines.
F
Extra, extra.
Nick
Read all about it.
Myron Metcalf
Read all about it.
Matt Jones
The Sunday headlines.
Nick
All right, so Nick, what's up first?
All right. Well, there's a lot of headlines in association with today's date, February 2nd. We'll start with one that's nothing to do with sports. But I'm curious Myron's thoughts on it. Yeah, Punxsutawney Phil came out today. Myron, Groundhog Day is today. Any guest. Do you know what he did? Do you know if he saw a shadow or not?
Myron Metcalf
What's his name?
Nick
Punxsutawney Phil, Pennsylvania.
Myron Metcalf
Is that the groundhog?
Nick
Yes, that's the groundhog.
Myron Metcalf
What is he supposed to do again? He comes out and he looks at.
Nick
What does he look at?
Myron Metcalf
The sun or something like that?
Nick
If he sees his shadow, that means there's six more weeks of winter. If he does not see his shadow, that means spring is going to come early. Well, he saw a shadow, so that means winter is going to be six more weeks longer. He's at about a 30% accuracy clip since 2005.
That's worse than if he just flipped a coin.
Yeah, it's not great. But in reality, winter will end whatever this guy Sundays. It'll end March 20th. That's when the equinox is.
But you know, Myron, I've been to Pucks. I've been there to this town. I've been to the place where they do it. I didn't come for the. For the event But I was there once, and it's terrible. It is like. Yeah, well, I mean, it's. It's got, you know, like any city of 5,000 people. I stayed in the hotel, though, that. That is called the Groundhog Hotel, and it's got groundhogs everywhere. And I thought to myself, this woman that ran the front, she was very sweet. She knew more things about groundhogs than anyone I've ever met. And I thought, you know what? We should all have something we care about as much as that town cares about groundhogs. And they're one day a year.
Myron Metcalf
So do they keep the groundhog in, like a cage or. Like, how do they get him?
Nick
Yeah, it's like a. It's like the city's pet groundhog. And then when it dies, there's.
Myron Metcalf
It's like, ugga at Georgia, who invented Groundhog Day? Who. Like, there's some things in history where it's like, okay, there were a bunch.
Nick
Of bored people saying to me how, like, now we think of Groundhog Day as meaning the same thing happening over and over. Because Bill Murray movie.
Myron Metcalf
Yeah.
Nick
It's completely changed the view of what a lot of think it is based on one movie, which I always think is interesting. What's next?
All right, so the other date of significance for today, 22. That means two Rap2 jerseys will head up in the rafters today. Of all time greats, Caitlin Clark is up first. Her number 22 jersey is going up in Iowa.
Myron Metcalf
Yes, Myron, you said 22. Okay.
Nick
Yeah.
February 2nd story. Myron. Go ahead, Nick.
He was. Caitlin Clark's is going up in Iowa. 22. Obviously the NCAA all time leading score, both men's and women's. And then in South Carolina, Asia Wilson's 22 is also going up in the rafters. Only reason it's taking Asia Wilson longer than most is South Carolina has a five year waiting period regardless. So that's why hers is going up a little bit later than Clark's. Matt.
Yeah, very cool for both of them. I. Those are two of probably the most beloved women's players at their universities of all time. Maybe two of the three or four. I went to Caitlin Clark's, to her school and to the gym. Stood on the place where she broke it. That'll be an awesome atmosphere. I wish these weren't the same day. I think they both kind of deserve a lot of attention, but maybe the fact that they're paired together will give them both more attention. They're on different networks, but. Good day for celebration of Women's college basketball today at South Carolina and Iowa?
Myron Metcalf
Yeah, I mean, to me, and it's cool. Like, do it right away. You know, if a player is at a certain level, you don't have to wait. But, you know, different schools have different standards. Like, I was at byu. Jimmer Fredette's number isn't retired there at byu. Like, there's like different things at North Carolina.
Nick
Jimmy for dad is not Caitlin Clark or Asia Wilson. I mean, those, those two play for national championships. I mean, Jimmer is fine, but like, you're not putting Jimmer in the same sentence as those two, are you?
Myron Metcalf
I mean, in terms of what he meant to his school, I'd like to believe he's in that category. Right.
Nick
Maybe.
Asia Wilson also is a statue that was revealed in 2023.
Myron Metcalf
She got the statue before the jersey.
Nick
Yeah, she had a statue unveiled two years ago.
Who's up next?
All right, well, talk about current stars in the college ranks. Last night you may have noticed. Not even noticed it. Duke, second in the country, just beat the life out of North Carolina in that rivalry. They were led by a pretty good freshman, Cooper flag. He had 21 points, eight rebounds, seven assists, three steals. Pretty good stat line. He is the third freshman in the last 45 seasons to have 20 points, five rebounds and five assists against the arch rival Tar Heels. Myron, how good is Cooper Flag?
Myron Metcalf
I mean, I've done. I think I've been to six Cooper Flag games. I think four, three for TV so far that I've. I've done. I think he can be an elite player at the next level. One of the best two way players I've seen at this level. Just turned 18 in December. Has such a poise and maturity about him. Great defensively, can guard all five spots, can score against any matchup. He's one of the better players I think we've seen at this level. And I won't be surprised if he leads Duke to a national championship.
Nick
J Bill has said he thinks he's the best Duke freshman of all time in terms of a prospect. You know, I could see it. I mean, it's just him or Zion. I mean, I don't know.
Myron Metcalf
Zion. Cooper's amazing. Zion was supernatural in some way.
Nick
Zion was a supernatural human specimen.
Myron Metcalf
Yes.
Nick
But Cooper may be a better player.
Myron Metcalf
That, that's fair.
Nick
That's. You know, I, I think what's amazing about him and Zion was like this too, is that they've met the hype. I sort of judge. Okay, what are the one and done guys like, where does he rank? And if you look at the great one and dones, in my opinion, you're basically, you start with like Carmelo, you get the Durant, you get John Wall, you get Anthony Davis.
Myron Metcalf
Yeah.
Nick
Michael Beasley. People forget how good his year was. Was a beast at Kansas State and then Zion. And I think this guy's next. I mean, I think there's a list of like seven and this guy is now on it. And I think he's firmly like in the middle of that list. And depending on what his run in is in March, he could get even higher on it. What's next?
All right. Well, we are in the week before the Super Bowl. You know what that means? The Pro bowl games is what the current edition of the Pro bowl is. And that'll be today, Sunday, February 2nd, 3pm Eastern on ESPN. You have a seven on seven flag football game today. You will also have a few other skill races going on and a dodgeball game as well. There were events, there were events earlier in the week on Thursday night with the Pro Bowlers going at it, but kind of lacks luster from years past.
You could say it. It's awful. Like this is the worst all star anything in sports. I'm not really sure there's anything you can do about it. It'll still probably draw a good rating because anything NFL draws a good rating. But this is an awful event. I don't know what else they can do though, because the. When they were playing football towards the end, it was terrible too. Just is what it is, Myron. It's the nature of the sport. Guys don't want to get hurt. I get it. But it's like I'm not going to watch it. I mean, are you?
Myron Metcalf
No, but I can fix it and I hope Roger Goodell is listening. I can fix it. I can fix it.
Nick
All right, tell me what you're going to forget.
Myron Metcalf
Football, flag football, all of that. Get rid of all that. What you do is you do a golf scramble with these NFL teams. You put foursomes out there on a nice golf course somewhere in America, maybe in Hawaii.
Nick
Watch that.
Myron Metcalf
I would love to. I don't know if these guys are good golfers or not. Mic up, everybody. Mike, Everybody up.
Nick
Michael Parsons.
Myron Metcalf
I love it. What if he's tip. What if he's great? What if he's terrible? The banter between the guys.
Nick
Watch the celebrity golf tournament already exists.
Myron Metcalf
Yes. And this would be a one time name.
Nick
A celebrity golf tournament.
Myron Metcalf
A celebrity golf tournament.
Nick
Yeah. Since you, since you watch all these. You said you're a big fan of celebrity golf. Can you name one?
Myron Metcalf
The PGA celebrity golf tournament.
Nick
That's not what it's called. Well, but it's not a PGA anything.
Myron Metcalf
But you know what I'm talking about. Back to my idea.
Nick
When did that. When do they play it?
Myron Metcalf
Back to my idea. You would get groups of four to play in a scramble on a nice golf course. You mic everybody up, and you just make it fun. Guys are hitting into the water. Maybe some players are really good, and you just. You make it fun.
Nick
That's how you give me your favorite celebrity golf moment.
Myron Metcalf
Steph Curry hit a hole in one, and he was golfing in a foursome when I know Canelo Alvarez and a couple of other pro golfers a couple years back.
Nick
I mean, first of all, you got to look and see if that happened. Nick, I want you to look.
Myron Metcalf
I. Steph Curry had a hold of one.
Nick
Did Steph Curry get a hole in one with Canelo Alvarez and some pro golf?
Myron Metcalf
You know why? Because they fight every tournament.
Nick
We'll see. We'll see. Let's just. He's going to look up and see if that happened. And in the next segment, if it happened.
Myron Metcalf
Yep.
Nick
Then I will say that you are a big celebrity golf fan. Okay, here's what I think happened. I think Steph Curry got a hole in one. I think you've seen Canelo Alvarez box.
Myron Metcalf
No.
Nick
And then you watched a PGA Tour golf tournament. All of those things came together in your mind.
Myron Metcalf
No, they. They're friends and they shadow box each other every year. Like, Curry will drop the clubs and he pretends to box Canelo Alvarez. It's a thing.
Nick
It's a thing.
Myron Metcalf
Google it.
Nick
All right, well, we'll find out. Okay, you're right. Myron's fix to the Pro bowl is have all the players play golf.
Myron Metcalf
Yep. You would watch it, too.
Nick
I would not.
Myron Metcalf
Yes, you would.
Nick
Guarantee.
Myron Metcalf
Yes, you would Love it.
Nick
No, I would not. I would not. Coming up, we are officially one week from Super Bowl 59, but who cares about the Super Bowl? Let's get Canelo Alvarez to shadow box Draymond Green. That's next.
Myron Metcalf
Audience, what happened, man?
Matt Jones
Super Week 2025 on ESPN Radio.
Nick
What a run. Touchdown Saquan Barkley.
Matt Jones
The latest news.
Nick
You beat that team.
Myron Metcalf
You have really accomplished something.
Matt Jones
Loss predictions and reaction. Superweek 2025 live from New Orleans, Louisiana, next week on ESPN Radio, brought to you by GNC and Verizon, Matt and Myron, the podcast.
Shopify Advertiser
When you think about businesses that are selling through the roof like aloe or allbirds or skims. Sure, you think about a great product, a cool brand and brilliant marketing. But an often overlooked secret is actually the businesses behind the business making, selling and for shoppers buying Simple. For millions of businesses, that business is Shopify. Nobody does selling better than Shopify, home of the number one checkout on the plan and the not so secret secret with shop pay that boosts conversions up to 50%, meaning way less carts going abandoned and way more sales going. So if you're into growing your business, your commerce platform better be ready to sell wherever your customers are scrolling or strolling on the web, in your store, in their feed and everywhere in between. The secret's out. Businesses that want to grow grow with Shopify. Upgrade your business and get the same checkout untucket uses. Sign up for your $1 per month trial period at shopify.comshall lowercase go to shopify.comnetwork to upgrade your selling today shopify.comnetwork.
TaxAct Advertiser
Taxact knows filing your taxes can be complicated. And that's why we have live experts to help you with any questions. They can hold your hand through the process, beginning to end, metaphorically, of course. I mean, they can't actually hold your hand in person. I suppose you could hold your computer mouse while you chat with the expert about capital gains or whatever, which is sort of like holding hands. Sorry. Point is, our tax experts can make filing easier. Tax act let's get them over with.59 is set.
Nick
Representing the AFC will be the Kansas City Chiefs. Mahomes Enzo, he's got another can they three peat in the Super Bowl. Well, it's never been done. Representing the NFC will be the Philadelphia Eagles. What a run. Touchdown, Saquon Barkley. The second time in the last three years the Eagles are in the super.
Myron Metcalf
Bowl and they get a chance for some get back at the team that denied them two years ago.
Nick
It's counting down. The kickoff here on ESPN Radio presented by Progressive Insurance. The super bowl is one week away. Chiefs and Eagles meeting for the second time in three years. Each of the last three Super Bowls have been decided by three points. It's the first time that's ever happened where they've been decided by three or fewer points in a row. You know, when you and I were kids, Myron, we sort of got used to the idea that the super bowl was a route. When I was a kid, the Super Bowls were never close. And now I want to say something like seven of the last nine have come down to the final possession we're kind of used to the league having a lot more parity, these games being good. When, when you're sort of ranking Super Bowls, people get excited about before they start. Where do you think this one is? I mean, you've got two, you got two of the most high profile players in the league and Mahomes and Kelsey with a, with the possibility to make history. You got Eagles sort of well known franchise, been to the Super Bowl. You got Kendrick Lamar, it's in New Orleans. I mean this, this should be a pretty hyped Super Bowl. I don't think feel that people look at it like that yet. Do you think they will as the week goes on?
Myron Metcalf
I mean, maybe we've seen it before, right? We saw it two years ago.
Nick
So is that why you think it's like that?
Myron Metcalf
That's part of it. I also think the possibility of some new blood really excited people. When Jaden Daniels suddenly makes this run with the commanders, all of a sudden it's like, wow, we might see this rookie quarterback complete one of the greatest, maybe the greatest season we've ever seen by rookie in the NFL. I think there are a lot of people who are excited about Lamar Jackson finally breaking through or Josh Allen finally breaking through and kind of slaying the dragon. So I think there was this anticipation of new blood, you know, also unlike a couple years ago, I think now Mahomes has become the villain a little bit because it's almost like once you win too much, people change how they feel about you. So I don't know what you do about the buzz. People will watch. A lot of people will watch. But there certainly would be others who will say they don't want to see this again.
Nick
Yeah, I don't. I mean, who else would people rather see? I mean, would they really rather see like, like take Commander's bills? Let's say that's what it was. Okay.
Myron Metcalf
Yeah.
Nick
I mean it'd be fine. It's a Super Bowl. I'd watch it. But it would be lower rated, won't it? Wouldn't you agree?
Myron Metcalf
I don't know. Because in that scenario, Jaden Daniels now has a shot at history, right? To win a Super Bowl.
Nick
That's not what the super, the super bowl is not about that. The super bowl is. Can you get my mom to watch?
Myron Metcalf
Yes. And your mom will know Jaden.
Nick
My mom does not know Jay.
Myron Metcalf
She would if. If he had won that game.
Nick
He would not. I know she ain't gonna know Jaden Daniels. My mom probably doesn't even know, Josh.
Myron Metcalf
Would be on all the show. He'd be on.
Nick
Good morning nobody. Listen, Jaden, today, let me. Let me give you a little secret. Jaden Daniels could walk, if he's wearing normal clothes, could still walk down a lot of streets in America. And most people would not right now.
Myron Metcalf
Yes. Right.
Nick
So. So now if you say the super bowl would build him up. Well, I could say that about any person in the world. Right. Like, if you give them the super bowl attention, then everybody will be known. The super bowl is about getting my mom to watch. That's what the super bowl is. And the good thing about this is, is that she knows Mahomes and she knows Kelsey. And so you're going to get that. I mean, remember last year's super bowl had like, what, 7 million more people watching than the year before?
Myron Metcalf
Yeah.
Nick
This one is going to be like, that was Taylor. That was Taylor. But now you're going to get Taylor, too. You're going to get that as well. I mean, you're going to. If you're the NFL, if you're the NFL, and I ask you at the beginning of the year, take the Cowboys out of it, because obviously that's a whole thing. This is who they'd want. Right? Isn't this the exact matchup the NFL would want?
Myron Metcalf
Kansas City? Yes. I don't know about the nfc. I mean, of all the teams you could pick, the Lions would have been a huge deal if they had made.
Nick
But again, that's a football deal. The average. Do you think. Does your. Does my mom know who Dan Cable is? No, but, you know, do you think the.
Myron Metcalf
The Eagles are that recognizable? You think Jalen hurts?
Nick
I think Philadelphia is a recognizable franchise. I'm not saying Jalen hurts. I'm not saying the world knows who Jalen hurts is. But if you're sitting there and you're going, okay, general public franchises. It's interesting. The NFC has more of them than the afc. Right. And I think it's really like Cowboys, Giants, Eagles, Bears, Packers. Like, that's the group that even if you don't know anything else, you know those teams and you get one of them in the super bowl and then you get them against maybe the two most known players in the league on the other side.
Myron Metcalf
Yeah. It just doesn't. There is a buzz, obviously, among football people. Jayla Hurst winning a Super bowl, all those things. I don't know what the general public thinks. Taylor Swift, obviously, is going to be big for some people, but I don't know. It feels like there are A lot of disappointed folks who wanted to see something else.
Nick
I think the hardcore sports fans are disappointed because they've grown to hate Patrick Mahomes, which is fascinating in and of itself. I mean, the Chiefs. The flip on the Chiefs by the sports fan is fascinating to me.
Myron Metcalf
And it's warranted.
Nick
I think it's him. It's warranted.
Myron Metcalf
Yeah, I think so.
Nick
Why?
Myron Metcalf
Because we're not supposed to like dominant teams like that. We're not supposed to like.
Nick
But, I mean, everybody loved Michael Jordan.
Myron Metcalf
But see, when you say. I disagree with that because I think people agreed that he was the greatest thing we'd ever seen. But if you were in the 90s and you talked to Pistons fans or Pacers fans or.
Nick
But how many people you think in the Finals were rooting for the Utah Jazz?
Myron Metcalf
A lot. Come on, A lot. We didn't have the ability to sort of know what everybody was thinking around the country with social media. But I think there were a lot of fan bases that didn't like Michael Jordan and didn't like the Bulls when they were winning today.
Nick
Well, okay, let me put it a different way. When it was Lakers, Celtics, don't you think everybody wanted to see the Lakers and the Celtics that year that the Rockets made it? Do you think people were excited? Well, we get Ralph Sampson and Akeem Olajuwa, we don't have to worry about magic this year.
Myron Metcalf
No, no. But. But I do think, you know, the Lakers were different because they had magic. But with Michael Jordan being as dominant as he was, we all agreed he was the greatest we'd ever seen.
Nick
But go towards Upper Midwest guy, though. You're a Milwaukee guy and you just don't like Chicago. But do you think. I think Michael Jordan. Just take Kentucky. We had no pro sports teams. Every kid I knew rooted for Michael Jordan.
Myron Metcalf
Every kid I knew, he was gigantic. My point is, there was also a segment of fans who thought, okay, yes, he's great, but now he's beaten every.
Nick
That's a Milwaukee thing. I think it is.
Myron Metcalf
He played the Suns and the Pacers and like, he played all these things.
Nick
But that was Barkley. That's another huge star. Right? I mean, I think Sons fans. Tell me about Michael Jordan is. I think there's a. Well, but that's the sun. That's a handful of people. The combination of. There's a few things, I think in play with it with the Chiefs. One of them is what you said. In the modern era, we get tired of people being overexposed. And I think that's happened to them. I think then there's been a cultural thing happen because of Kelsey and Taylor Swift and politics enters everything and then that comes into it some. But what's interesting to me is Andy Reid, Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelsey to me seem to be three dudes that are completely unobjectionable and yet the people still hate them. And I don't really understand why. Like those guys seem to me to be like, what have those guys done wrong? Seriously, what do they do wrong, those guys?
Myron Metcalf
It's not that I think it's especially with Mahomes, it's the idea that he's winning to this degree at this age and may just shatter all the records. And so I think again people turn on him.
Nick
But we get to watch history.
Myron Metcalf
But people want to see every other.
Nick
People get a shot. When Tiger was playing, were you rooting for David Duvall?
Myron Metcalf
Yeah, I was rooting Tiger though, for a lot of reasons. But I mean, but I don't think that's different. Individual sports are different than team sports. I think I just, I think it's amazing.
Nick
Let me ask you about this quick on them.
Myron Metcalf
There's people who think that Travis might propose to Taylor if he wins. Are you for that?
Nick
I don't care about that. ESPN radio will be like beginning February 5th for coverage of the big game. It's brought to you by GNC and Variety.
Myron Metcalf
If he does, that's how you don't care about love.
Nick
I don't care if they get married. Should, whatever.
Myron Metcalf
I think that's beneath Taylor. You can't do that at the super. You can't do that on the field. That's beneath Taylor. You can't do that.
Nick
Only you would care about that. Coming up, the biggest trade in the history of sports. That's next. Hey, it's Michelle Smallman. And coming up Monday, super bowl week is finally here. I'll tell you why I'm so excited for Chiefs versus the Eagles. It's on Sportsmanlike 6:00am Eastern right here on ESPN Radio, ESPN2 and ESPNU.
Matt Jones
Matt and Myron, the podcast.
Nick
If you need three new reasons to love Jack wraps at Jack in the Box even more, here they are. Chicken fajita, chicken Caesar and delicious starting at $3. Coincidentally, those are the same three reasons you should come to Jack in the Box right now at Jack, every bite's a big deal. One of the all time blockbuster trades, Dallas is sending superstar Luka Doncic to the LA Lakers. The Dallas Mavericks went to one team and one team only.
Matt Jones
And Negotiated this thing in darkness, basically.
Nick
This move, I believe, is one of the most stunning trades, one of the.
Bobby Marks
Biggest and most stunning trades in the history of the league.
Myron Metcalf
So how about going get an international superstar, Luka Dodge that we could build and a guy that could come in and represent the Lakers in great fashion.
Nick
So is this like the biggest trade ever? I'm trying to think. So I'm looking right now on a website, Myron, for the biggest trades in the history of professional sports. Yeah, here's what this list is. This is from Bleacher Report article number one. Babe Ruth from the Red Sox to the Yankees, Wayne Gretzky from the Oilers to the Kings, Bill Russell from the Hawks to the Celtics, Herschel Walker, Kareem from your Milwaukee Bucks to the Lakers, and then Mark McGuire, Oakland to St. Louis. All of those were trades that involved huge stars. But I don't think any of them saw star for star like this. And so because of that, is it plausible on Saturday night at 11:45 or midnight, whatever time it was that we saw last night, presented by Progressive Insurance, the biggest trade in sports history? Yeah.
Myron Metcalf
I mean, someone brought up Eli and Philip Rivers. You know, they hadn't even played a game. But that's the thing. It was different. We haven't seen a Hall of Famer for Hall of Famer situation. I think that's what makes this so.
Nick
Unique is like in the prime of their career. I think that probably happened like late in their careers.
Myron Metcalf
But yeah, I mean, but I mean, a guy in Anthony Davis who is probably in his prime right now, and a guy in Luca who maybe has even reached it, but it's still a generational star. You just don't see it. I think the weird thing about Dallas is, okay, if you're going to get older, usually you want to get significantly younger at some point along the way. And they didn't get a ton of draft picks. And that's the weird part about that situation. Whereas with the Lakers, unless someone can tell me that Luca has some like, fundamental issues where he is on his way to kind of not being in shape, it ended up in a really different position as a player. I don't know how the Mavericks win ultimately long term in this situation.
Nick
I'm even trying to figure out like what the biggest trades were in the NBA that are just player for player, period. I mean, you know what the Gasols being traded for each other. But at that point, Mark was not a star yet. Right. Like he became a star, but he was still young at that point. And you didn't necessarily know that he would become as good as he ended up becoming. Paul was kind of in his prime.
Myron Metcalf
Yeah.
Nick
But, you know, I can't think of one like this. The other part that's fascinating to me is that this stayed secret.
Myron Metcalf
That's the hard part.
Nick
In 2025, would you think anything like, we didn't even know either of those guys were on the trade market at all. Would you. Would you. Are you surprised that there wasn't even, like, a peep about this?
Myron Metcalf
That was shocking because usually somebody lets the cat out of the bag, which I don't know what that means, by the way, but what?
Nick
Let the cat out of the bag?
Myron Metcalf
Yeah. I don't know like, why that. We use that for, like, when you.
Nick
Put a cat in a bag to, like.
Myron Metcalf
Why is a cat in the bag, though?
Nick
To carry it. Carry it somewhere. If you need to transport it from one place to the other, you put it in.
It originated in medieval times when dishonest livestock merchants would sell cats instead of pigs. Do with that what you will.
Wait until they.
Myron Metcalf
Wait a minute. They would say they had a pig and it would be a cat.
Nick
Yeah. The phrase refers to when a buyer discovers the deception after returning home and opening the bag.
Myron Metcalf
So a person doesn't know they're carrying a cat and not a pig.
Nick
That's what Google says.
Yeah, I think that's on the buyer, to be honest with you.
You always check the bag. What's in there?
If you buy a pig and you don't even look in the bag, end up with a cat, that's on you. That's. That's a buyer.
Myron Metcalf
Yeah.
Nick
That's not letting the cat out of the bag. That's just. That's just screwing up.
Myron Metcalf
Yeah, that sounds. Yeah, that's the buyer right there.
Nick
Yeah, that's. I'm putting that on the buyer. I'm not putting that on the. Anyway, back to the trade.
Myron Metcalf
Okay.
Nick
Do you think. Are you surprised the cat was not let out of the bag?
Myron Metcalf
I was. And especially considering all the stars involved. Right. This is a Rich Paul situation. Rich Paul, obviously the agent for both LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and then you have Luca, a generational star who just led his team to the finals. And usually teams go at some point to the player, even if the player has no control, and let them know what's about to happen. And you would think on the Lakers side as well. But it was unique how they kept this under wraps and somehow made a deal. But they're friends, you know, Nico Harrison, The GM of the Mavericks, Rob Polinka, the Lakers. So this was two buddies kind of doing this transaction.
Nick
Bobby Marks, ESPN's NBA insider, was on SportsCenter all night and talked about how they were able to keep it under wraps.
Bobby Marks
It's surprising. I mean, it's rarely, you know, something of this magnitude here. You know, I think what. What happens is that, you know, in this case, you. When you. When you start calling around and you're letting the players know that they've been traded and their agents know, then it starts to get out a little bit here. But this trade caught a lot of people off, off guard, including a lot of the agents that represent the players that were part of this trade. You know, that it's. It's a different, you know, different world as far as, you know, breaking news as far as, you know, something of this magnitude that just felt that if it got out, you know, that this could have been, you know, that, you know, maybe one player would have come out and said, I don't want to report or I don't want to go there, and stuff like that. And neither team could take. Could take that risk.
Nick
Wow. They worried somebody would have vetoed it and said it. So. So they were able to. I think they have to hide it here because I think if you get the blowback of people going, what are you doing? Maybe the Mavericks, or maybe they get cold feet, right?
Myron Metcalf
Yeah. But it just doesn't happen, though, Right? Like, all those things are valid, but you never see anyone keep a trade secret. Like, there are always rumors about what's about to go down, especially in the NBA. So this. This is unique. And also, Luca didn't know, so. So this idea of maybe he wants to go to the Lakers, he might reveal that, but that's not clear at this point. And it doesn't sound like Anthony Davis knew. It doesn't sound like LeBron James knew anything. So this is a unique situation that they were able to pull off.
Nick
All right, so now Picture Luca and LeBron on the same court.
Myron Metcalf
Yeah.
Nick
Are you watching?
Myron Metcalf
Absolutely. Because I'm watching Luka anyway. Luka's a top five player in the NBA right now. We all agree on that, right?
Nick
Do you enjoy watching him? Like, I really enjoy watching Jokic, I find Luca less entertaining. I really enjoyed him early in his career, but now I almost feel like I'm watching the way James Harden plays. Like, I'm watching the same. Like, I'm watching the same ball pounding the whole time, and I don't enjoy it as much.
Myron Metcalf
I Watched the Western Conference finals, and I had a newfound admiration for Luka. And just the way he plays. He. He looks like a dude who's not supposed to be this good at basketball. Like, you got to start.
Nick
I agree with that for sure.
Myron Metcalf
So I think that gets people. But just the way he. There's not a player in the NBA, outside of maybe Wimby, who makes basketball look easier than Luca does. Like, it just looked like it's just so simple for him. Heck, yeah. I'm watching him in la and I think a lot of people want to play in LA with him.
Nick
Yeah, I always hear that. But how many people went to Dallas to play with it?
Myron Metcalf
I think Dallas is different, though. I think it's a different.
Nick
Dallas is a great city. It's not like he's playing in, you know, El Paso. I mean, he's.
Myron Metcalf
There's an appeal for. There are guys, as, you know, there's every sport, there are teams where you go. People would love to play for that organization.
Nick
No, and the Lakers are that. The Lakers are definitely that. I would agree with you there. All right, so let's just look at this year.
Myron Metcalf
Yeah.
Nick
Lakers are currently the 5 seed when the playoffs start. Is that get better or worse after this trade?
Myron Metcalf
I don't think the west below those five is that strong. Obviously, the Dallas thing is more interesting, I guess that they probably hold serve right. Maybe stay right where they are right now.
Nick
They are 10 games out, one game behind Denver. They're three and a half behind Memphis for third. But then there's a lot of teams really close to them. Denver's one game ahead of Lakers, who are a half game ahead of the Clippers, who are a game ahead of Minnesota, who are a game ahead of Dallas, who are half game ahead of Phoenix. I mean, there's a lot of teams bunched up right there. So there's really only one spot they could go up, Myron. But there's a lot of spots they could go down.
Myron Metcalf
Yeah, well, they got to get Luka healthy too. Right? He's not.
Nick
Let's say they're the five seed. I like this. And let's say Denver's the four seed. They beaten Denver in that first round.
Myron Metcalf
I don't think Denver looks like the Denver of old, but I'm not betting against Jokic.
Nick
Well, that would be. That would be. I would say this. You put Luca, LeBron and Jokic on the same court.
Myron Metcalf
Yeah.
Nick
That's some passing brilliance right there.
Myron Metcalf
Yeah. Yeah.
Nick
I mean, you're looking. You could make an argument that those are the three best passers in the league in some ways and you put them all on the same court.
Myron Metcalf
It'd be fun.
Nick
That, that would be, that would be a lot of fun to watch. And for Dallas, by the way, we'll see. Maybe they play their way into out of the play in games, but they also, I mean there's a world where they can not make the playing game at all. Those western teams are so close to each other that it could go either way. A lot on the line for all of these teams. Now there are no NFL games, but we'll pick anything. There's a lot of stuff out there happening tonight. We will make our picks. That's next here on Countdown to Kickoff on ESPN Radio.
Matt Jones
The NFL playoffs on ESPN Radio.
Nick
Steps up, throws and he got it.
Matt Jones
The latest news.
Nick
They have that ability because of the nature of their offense.
Matt Jones
Loss predictions and reaction.
Myron Metcalf
My goal at the end of the.
Nick
Year is to win the Super Bowl.
Myron Metcalf
Nothing else matters.
Matt Jones
The NFL playoffs. Continuing coverage right here on esp ESPN Radio. Matt and Myron, the podcast.
Nick
It is kind of the kickoff here on ESPN Radio. We are presented by Progressive Insurance. You can say big when you bundle your auto, home, motorcycle, RV or boat. Visit progressive.com it today, a lot of good games going on. Kind of the last sort of, I don't know, lull before we hit into super bowl week. But there's still a lot of things to pick and let's do it. It's time to take your pick.
Take your pick.
You take your pick.
Matt Jones
It's time to take your pick.
Nick
All right, There we go.
F
Mikey, get this music going because you know what, man, this is a V.
Nick
Of all the intros I've heard, that's one of them. Mikey, what's, what's up first?
F
All right. Of course today you guys are going to be watching the AFC NFC Pro bowl at 3pm on ESPN and ABC. You got the skills, still more skills competition. You got punt perfect tug of war, tug of war, the great football race. Six players from each conference, I guess race each other and of course the big seven on seven flag football game. Myron, who you got winning the AFC NFC Pro bowl today?
Myron Metcalf
So just imagine they're all out there, best ball tournament, playing golf. I think you would, it'd be more fascinating than you realize. I don't, I honestly don't flat like who's winning what, the flag football game or the tug of war or what, the whole thing.
F
I mean you win like, like 50 grand if you win them, you know.
Myron Metcalf
I'll pick the afc.
Nick
I guess I'll go with the nfc. More importantly, Nick, did we find out whether Myron was right that Steph Curry got a hole in one and shadow box Canelo Alvarez?
So he was kind of right. So he's referring to the American Century Championship. It's a thing they do over the summer. Tons of celebrities go out and golf in a charity tournament. So Myron is referring to 2021, where he and Canelo shadowbox on a golf course, and then two years later, Steph hit a hole in one on the century championship tournament.
So they weren't at the same time.
No, but you were close. They were.
No, that's not right. You said they shadow boxed.
Myron Metcalf
I said he got an ace. I got hole in one at a celebrity tournament. You said that wasn't right.
Nick
That's right.
No, I remember that. I didn't remember the shadow boxing. And now were there two PGA pros on there? That's what he said happened as well.
Unless Aaron Rodgers and Joe Pavlovsky is.
Myron Metcalf
A. I'll send you my Google. I'll send you my Google link. You're looking at a different Google. I'll send a different Google.
Nick
A different Google?
Myron Metcalf
Yeah.
Nick
Is that. Is there. Is there a different Google? What you. I think you said once on this show there was a black Google.
Myron Metcalf
There's a black Google. Yeah. You called it Bluegal. We don't let y'all know everything. Well, I'll send it to you.
Nick
I'm a big. I'd love to have access to Bluegill if you ever want to let me.
Myron Metcalf
Oh, not. Not now. We can't let none of y'all in. We gotta keep that to ourselves.
Nick
Blue, go. All right.
Myron Metcalf
What's gonna happen?
F
All right, I got my music. Better. I take your picks. Gonna get better now because we're gonna take a look at some NBA games. Today, 3:00pm you got the. What time 3:00pm today, Myron? Bulls at the Pistons. Detroit's Kate Cunningham coming off of a 40 point game against the Mavs.
Myron Metcalf
Myron, what a story Kate Cunningham is being, man, like, it's like. I think people looked at him like, oh, man, maybe he's a bus, but like, he is been phenomenal all star. I mean, Zach Levine could have been having one of the better years of his career. I'll take the Pistons just because I kind of want the Pistons to win and kind of complete this Disney movie that they've been putting together this year.
Nick
Yeah, Cade's been awesome. I mean, gets to be an All Star. I think he's, he's actually the Pistons are low key, really fun to watch. I don't know if people realize that they usually play right at 7:00. I feel like they play the Pacers 43 times a year always on NBA TV. They always, I feel like they play all the time but they are fun to watch and I say they beat the Bulls today. What's next, Mikey?
F
All right, 6:00 on ESPN. You got the world champion Celtics at the Philadelphia 76ers. Boston heavy favorite, but Maxi, he's another guy having a great year ahead of 42 point game in his last outing.
Nick
Yeah, Maxey, probably the biggest snub of the all star game. He and Trae Young, he's played well, but you know, the 76 was not even in the playoffs right now I think, I think Boston wins. They've, they'd struggle a little bit in the last few weeks, but I think they get this game they lost on Christmas to the 76ers. So I think they're going to be motivated to get this with Meyer and give me the Celtics.
Myron Metcalf
Yeah, no, I like the Celtics as well. I mean the Sixers though, they might be turning the corner a little bit and what has been a disappointing season thus far, but Maxi is certainly lived up to the hype and carrying that team.
F
All right then, 8:30 tonight on ESPN. You got the Memphis Grizzlies versus Myron's Milwaukee Bucks. The Bucks on a six game winning streak. Myron, do they keep it going?
Myron Metcalf
They will, man. I mean Giannis is fired up, getting.
F
Ready to fight, I should say was.
Myron Metcalf
Getting ready to fight Chris Paul yesterday. You know, he's there. They're, they're fired up.
Nick
Everybody want to fight Chris Paul though.
Myron Metcalf
At some point I think you have to, to like become an NBA star at some point get elected as the.
Nick
Player representative for the union. I feel like everyone hates Chris Paul, but he has been the player representative for the union like 12 years.
Myron Metcalf
No, I think it's different. I don't think they hate him. There's just at one point they've always wanted to fight him. That's different. You know what I mean?
Nick
But why do they want him to be in charge of the union if they all want to punch you?
Myron Metcalf
Well, they know he'll fight for you. I think that's maybe okay.
Nick
So like he'll fight you or. Yeah, okay.
Myron Metcalf
You know, he won't back down. But no, I like the Bucks to get this win here, you know, I mean it's been a. It's been an interesting year, man. I don't know what's going to happen in the. In the Eastern Conference, but Bucks are starting to turn around the right time.
Nick
I would say to you, if you're not someone who watches the NBA regularly, you got to at least tune in once to see the Grizzlies to watch about five minutes every game. They just run the offense through Zach Edie, and you will think it's like 1983. And he's pretty good at it for those few minutes. Like, if they don't put a big tall guy on him, he'll score.
Myron Metcalf
Yep.
Nick
And then if they do, Edie might take them outside and hit a three. I mean, he's like this weird sort of robot player. And I'm kind of surprised. Myron. It's worked as well as it has.
Myron Metcalf
Yeah. Now they're fascinating. And, you know, Jaren Jackson, I think, is their best player, you know, and John Moran has been. It's been solid, too. But the Grizzlies are tough, man.
Nick
Yeah, I'm going to take. By the way, I'll take Milwaukee. What's next?
F
All right, not much on college and especially in the men's today, but in the women's looks like an exciting game. 4:00pm on the SEC Network. Matt, you're number 12 Kentucky Wildcats versus the number 13 Oklahoma Sooners.
Nick
Yeah, that could be for the UK women's team on the road. You know, Kentucky's been awesome this year. They were horrible last year. I think they won one conference game, bring in a new coach. They've got an Australian named Georgia Amore who's going to be an All American candidate. I do think, however, on the road, they're going to play an Oklahoma team that's a little bit better than they are. So I'll take the Sooners to beat my cats in dormant.
Myron Metcalf
Yeah, I've done a Sooner's women's game for tv. You know, seen them up close. They're tough. Kentucky obviously been a big story, new coaching staff. But. But yeah, I think Oklahoma wins this.
Nick
By the way, for he gives us our next one. Rory is one back today at the Pebble Beach Pro Am. You gonna tune in to see Rory, maybe try to win one from the final group?
Myron Metcalf
I'll watch it. Yeah, I'm watching.
Nick
What's it. You're not watching it? He's gonna watch the Pro bowl and watch Canelo Alvarez play video games.
Myron Metcalf
Go ahead.
Nick
What's next, Mikey?
F
He's gonna be watching tonight. The Grammy Awards are Gonna be on tv. Let's go. Best new artist you got. Benson Boone, Sabrina Carpenter.
Myron Metcalf
Who?
F
Yep. Somebody named Ray. Somebody named Deutsche. Somebody.
Myron Metcalf
I don't know if you're saying these. I don't know that you're saying these names right.
Nick
What do you mean? First of all, let me. Let's go back. It's Chapel Roan. When you say someone named Ray, is it just Ray? It says Ray and then Deutsche. Is that what you're saying?
F
D O, E C H. Dochai.
Myron Metcalf
A rapper.
Nick
Okay, and then who else?
F
And then we got Chappelle Roan, Chapel Rome. Chapel Roan's in it. And Teddy swims.
Myron Metcalf
How's she boozy in it with one song?
Nick
He's got a few others.
Myron Metcalf
I know he doesn't.
Nick
I bet.
Myron Metcalf
Sabrina Carpenter. She's a really good album. She put out.
Nick
Yeah. I'm a huge Sabrina Carpenter fan. She's. You got to pick her. I. I don't do.
Myron Metcalf
Has been great, too.
Nick
Who? I. I don't know. Ray. I just want to know an artist that just goes by Ray. Hey, look, there's Ray. Because where I'm from in eastern Kentucky, Ray's everybody's middle name. Billy Ray, Johnny Ray. I didn't know there was just an artist called Dochio.
Myron Metcalf
Sabrina.
Nick
I think the first one wasn't Daniel Boone. Is that what.
Myron Metcalf
What. What kind of music is he putting out?
Nick
Yeah. Well, good, good, good. Texas Country 1800. Myron. I appreciate it. Game day is next with Zaslow and Gabe. That's next on espn.
Myron Metcalf
Hey, it's your resident super bowl champ, Chris Cannon. Coming up Monday, NBA huge college basketball rivalry games. And I'll react to it all in my upon further review at 7am Eastern. It's unsportsmanlike weekday mornings at 6 right here on ESPN Radio, ESPN2, and ESPN. You.
Matt Jones
Thanks for listening to Matt and Myron the podcast. You can listen to the show live every Sunday morning at 10am Eastern on ESPN radio, the ESPN app, and on SiriusXM channel 80. Matt and Myron, the podcast.
Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron - Episode: Hour 3: The Biggest Trade EVER?
Release Date: February 2, 2025
Hosts: Matt Jones and Myron Metcalf from ESPN Radio
The episode kicks off with Matt Jones and Myron Metcalf diving straight into the day's top stories in the sports world. They emphasize a mix of light-hearted topics and significant sports events, setting the tone for a comprehensive Sunday morning discussion.
Nick initiates the headlines by touching on Groundhog Day:
"[01:34] Nick: All right. Well, there's a lot of headlines in association with today's date, February 2nd... Punxsutawney Phil came out today."
Myron expresses curiosity about the tradition:
"[01:50] Myron Metcalf: What's his name?"
Nick explains the significance:
"[02:02] Nick: If he sees his shadow, that means there's six more weeks of winter. If he does not see his shadow, that means spring is going to come early. Well, he saw a shadow, so that means winter is going to be six more weeks longer." (02:02)
The hosts share their experiences visiting Punxsutawney, highlighting the town's dedication to the event and reflecting on the cultural impact of Groundhog Day, especially post the Bill Murray movie adaptation.
Nick brings attention to significant milestones in women's college basketball:
"[04:08] Nick: February 2nd story. ... Caitlin Clark's is going up in Iowa. 22... and then in South Carolina, Asia Wilson's 22 is also going up in the rafters." (04:08)
Myron discusses the differing standards for jersey retirements:
"[05:29] Myron Metcalf: I mean, I've been to six Cooper Flag games... different schools have different standards." (05:29)
The conversation underscores the exceptional achievements of Clark and Wilson, celebrating their contributions and the honor of having their jerseys retired simultaneously, which may amplify their recognition in women's basketball.
The hosts shift focus to current stars in the college basketball scene, spotlighting Cooper Flag from Duke University:
"[07:09] Myron Metcalf: ... Cooper can be an elite player at the next level. One of the best two-way players I've seen at this level." (06:25)
Nick praises Flag's performance and potential, comparing him to other notable one-and-done players. The discussion highlights Flag's impressive statistics and his impact on Duke's season, positioning him as a promising talent for future professional leagues.
As the episode approaches the week of the Super Bowl, Nick criticizes the current format of the Pro Bowl:
"[08:37] Nick: You could say it. It's awful. Like this is the worst all-star anything in sports." (08:37)
Myron offers an alternative idea to revamp the event:
"[09:14] Myron Metcalf: Football, flag football, all of that. Get rid of all that... do a golf scramble with these NFL teams." (09:14)
The hosts lament the lackluster nature of the Pro Bowl, suggesting a more engaging and less physically demanding format, such as a golf scramble, to increase viewer interest and participation.
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to upcoming Super Bowl 59. Nick and Myron discuss the matchup between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles, analyzing team dynamics, player performances, and historical contexts.
Nick highlights the Chiefs' potential three-peat:
"[13:59] Nick: Representing the AFC will be the Kansas City Chiefs. Mahomes Enzo, he's got another can they three peat in the Super Bowl. Well, it's never been done." (13:59)
Myron contemplates the evolving perception of Patrick Mahomes:
"[19:55] Myron Metcalf: ... people are not supposed to like dominant teams like that." (19:55)
The discussion delves into Mahomes' dominance and its impact on fan sentiments, comparing it to legendary figures like Michael Jordan. They also consider the Eagles' resurgence and the broader cultural and media influences influencing the Super Bowl's anticipation and viewership.
The centerpiece of this episode is an in-depth analysis of a monumental trade: the Dallas Mavericks sending superstar Luka Doncic to the LA Lakers.
Nick introduces the trade:
"[24:18] Nick: One of the all-time blockbuster trades, Dallas is sending superstar Luka Doncic to the LA Lakers." (24:18)
Myron underscores the trade's unprecedented nature:
"[24:42] Nick: ... Luka is a generational star... it's plausible... the biggest trade in sports history?" (25:44)
Referencing a Bleacher Report list of historic trades, the hosts argue that this Luka-Anthony Davis (assuming that's the trade) deal surpasses previous moves in both magnitude and star power.
Bobby Marks, ESPN's NBA insider, contributes insights on the trade's secrecy:
"[29:38] Bobby Marks: It's surprising. It caught a lot of people off guard... Luca didn't know, so... unique how they kept this under wraps." (29:38)
The conversation explores the logistics of keeping such a high-profile trade confidential, the roles of agents like Rich Paul, and the potential long-term ramifications for both franchises. They also compare it to past trades involving legendary players like Babe Ruth and Wayne Gretzky, emphasizing the trade's star-for-star exchange at the peak of their careers.
Moving forward, the hosts provide predictions for various NBA games, showcasing their analytical perspectives:
Bulls vs. Pistons: Nick favors the Pistons, highlighting Cade Cunningham's stellar performance.
"[38:43] Myron Metcalf: ... I'll take the Pistons just because I kind of want the Pistons to win..." (38:43)
Celtics vs. 76ers: A tight race with Boston as favorites, but Myron acknowledges the Sixers' potential turnaround.
"[40:04] Myron Metcalf: ... the Sixers might be turning the corner a little bit." (40:04)
Grizzlies vs. Bucks: With Giannis Antetokounmpo leading the Bucks on a winning streak, both hosts lean towards Milwaukee.
"[40:25] Myron Metcalf: They will, man. ... Giannis is fired up." (40:25)
Their predictions are backed by player performances, team dynamics, and current season trajectories, offering listeners nuanced insights into each matchup.
The discussion also covers women's college basketball, focusing on the clash between the Kentucky Wildcats and the Oklahoma Sooners:
"[42:21] Nick: ... Kentucky's been awesome this year... I'll take the Sooners to beat Kentucky." (42:21)
Myron echoes the sentiment, acknowledging Oklahoma's strength and Kentucky's recent improvements under new coaching staff:
"[42:47] Myron Metcalf: ... Oklahoma wins this." (42:47)
This segment highlights the growth and competitiveness in women's college basketball, spotlighting key players and coaching changes that have elevated the teams' performances.
In a lighter vein, Nick and Myron touch on celebrity events:
Celebrity Golf: Myron reminisces about Rory McIlroy in the Pebble Beach Pro-Am, while Nick teases about Steph Curry's golfing antics.
"[37:48] Nick: Then I will say that you are a big celebrity golf fan." (37:48)
Grammy Awards: They briefly discuss nominees and favorites, showcasing their engagement with broader entertainment topics.
"[43:30] F: ... Best new artist you got. Benson Boone, Sabrina Carpenter." (43:30)
As the episode winds down, Matt and Myron remind listeners of upcoming shows and segments, ensuring the audience stays engaged with ESPN Radio's lineup:
"[45:15] Matt Jones: Thanks for listening to Matt and Myron the podcast..." (45:15)
Super Bowl Discussion:
"[19:55] Myron Metcalf: ... people are not supposed to like dominant teams like that."
Big Trade Analysis:
"[25:44] Myron Metcalf: ... this is unique. And also, Luca didn't know, so..."
Pro Bowl Suggestions:
"[09:14] Myron Metcalf: ... do a golf scramble with these NFL teams."
This episode of "Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron" offers a blend of light-hearted banter and in-depth sports analysis, covering everything from Groundhog Day traditions to potentially historic NBA trades and Super Bowl previews. Matt Jones and Myron Metcalf provide insightful commentary, enriched with personal anecdotes and expert opinions, making it a comprehensive listen for sports enthusiasts looking to stay informed and entertained.