The Dan Patrick Show – Hour 1: NBA Draft Preview & NBA’s “Second Apron”

Release Date: June 25, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of The Dan Patrick Show, host Dan Patrick delves deep into the upcoming NBA Draft, exploring key prospects and the intriguing concept of the NBA’s “Second Apron.” The discussion is enriched with expert analysis, caller insights, and notable quotes that provide listeners with a comprehensive preview of what to expect on draft night.

Cooper Flagg: The Next LeBron?

Dan kicks off the show by spotlighting Cooper Flagg, a highly-touted NBA prospect making waves akin to LeBron James during his entrance into the league.

• Dan Patrick [10:30]: “Cooper Flagg is around the same age as LeBron was when he came into the NBA. He reclassified, played a stellar year at Duke, and now steps into the league as an 18-year-old phenom.”

LeBron himself shares his thoughts on Flagg through a clip from the Mind the Game podcast, praising Flagg's versatility and potential:

• LeBron James [11:15]: “He can play with the ball, without the ball, his jump shot is improving, and he’s super athletic. Joining a team with established stars like Klay Thompson and Anthony Davis will provide him the blueprint for greatness.”

However, Dan and callers discuss potential downsides:

• Dan Patrick [15:45]: “At 18, Cooper Flagg is going to be an 18-year-old on the NBA floor. While his skills are undeniable, his inexperience could be a challenge.”

• Caller Marvin [16:20]: “He’s only 18. Even with his talent, adjustments to the professional level won’t be instantaneous.”

Denver Nuggets and the “Second Apron” Controversy

A significant portion of the episode focuses on the Denver Nuggets' recent press conference and the enigmatic mention of the NBA’s “Second Apron.”

• Dan Patrick [25:50]: “The Nuggets’ owner, Josh Kroenke, hinted at the second apron, but it felt unprovoked and raised more questions than answers.”

Dan interprets Kroenke’s statements as a veiled message about potential trade considerations for their star player, Jokic.

• Dan Patrick [27:30]: “When Kroenke mentions needing depth and being careful with injuries, it sounded like a subtle push for help around Jokic. It’s almost as if they’re suggesting they might consider trading the best player in the game.”

• Caller Paul [28:10]: “If this is a hint, it could mean that even players as dominant as Jokic aren’t immune to the complexities of modern NBA contracts and team strategies.”

The concept of the “Second Apron” is dissected, explaining its impact on team salary caps and future draft picks.

• Dan Patrick [33:05]: “Teams can spend over the second apron for two years within a five-year window before facing penalties like losing draft picks. It’s a strategic tool but also a point of contention among franchises.”

Trade Scenarios and Team Strategies

Dan and his callers explore various trade scenarios, especially concerning high-profile players like Jokic and Cooper Flagg.

• Caller Todd [35:20]: “If I were managing Boston, I’d hesitate to trade Jalen Brown unless it aligns with our long-term strategy. Trading away key players like him would require significant assets in return.”

• Dan Patrick [36:00]: “Comparing to past trades, like Shaquille O'Neal from the Lakers at 31, it's clear that even peak players can be traded. The Nuggets might be signaling a shift in their approach to building a sustainable team around Jokic.”

NBA Draft Predictions and Potential Stars

The show also highlights predictions for the NBA Draft, focusing on prospects poised to make a significant impact.

• Dan Patrick [45:10]: “Keep an eye on Cooper Flagg as a potential number one pick for the Dallas Mavericks. His versatility and youth could make him a cornerstone for the franchise.”

• Caller Marvin [45:50]: “While he might not clinch Rookie of the Year due to the Mavericks' established stars, his growth trajectory is promising.”

Additionally, the “Stat of the Day” segment covers notable draft picks and their projected careers.

• Dan Patrick [50:00]: “Christian Moore, the 8th overall pick of the 2024 draft, has shown remarkable potential. Similarly, Chase Burns, picked 2nd, struck out the first five batters he faced against the Yankees, indicating his dominance.”

Poll Question: Least Favorite NBA Team to Play For

Engaging with the audience, Dan poses a poll question on the least favorite NBA team to play for, sparking discussions among callers about team relevancy and fan bases.

• Caller Marvin [55:30]: “Brooklyn Nets stand out as a team that feels irrelevant compared to the Knicks. Despite being in the media capital, their fan base doesn’t resonate as strongly.”

• Caller Paul [56:00]: “The Nets moved from New Jersey, and now their identity is lost. The Clippers, despite being in Lakers territory, have a more solid fan base thanks to their performance.”

Historical NBA Insights and Hall of Famers

In the “Stat of the Day” segment, historical NBA players are discussed, analyzing those who were expected to be stars but didn’t fully realize their potential.

• Caller James [1:05:00]: “Players like Michael Beasley and Glenn Robinson were projected as future Hall of Famers but didn’t reach those heights due to various challenges.”

• Dan Patrick [1:06:30]: “It’s a reminder that talent alone doesn’t guarantee success. Factors like team fit, injuries, and personal development play crucial roles.”

Conclusion

Dan wraps up the episode by reiterating the excitement surrounding the NBA Draft and the implications of the Nuggets' recent statements. The blend of expert analysis, caller perspectives, and engaging discussions provides listeners with a well-rounded understanding of the current NBA landscape and what to anticipate in the upcoming draft.

Notable Quotes

• Dan Patrick [10:30]: “Cooper Flagg is around the same age as LeBron was when he came into the NBA.”
• LeBron James [11:15]: “He can play with the ball, without the ball... they can give him the whole blueprint.”
• Dan Patrick [25:50]: “It felt like there was an agenda here... we might need help from Jokic.”
• Marvin [55:30]: “Brooklyn Nets stand out as a team that feels irrelevant compared to the Knicks.”

Final Thoughts

This episode offers a thorough exploration of the NBA Draft prospects and the strategic maneuvers within the league, particularly focusing on the Denver Nuggets' evolving strategy. Whether you're an avid NBA fan or a casual listener, Dan Patrick and his engaging discussions provide valuable insights into the future of basketball.

For more insights and discussions, tune in to The Dan Patrick Show on Fox Sports Radio and the iHeartRadio app.