Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd

Episode Title: Nuggets-Thunder Reaction, OKC-Timberwolves & Knicks-Pacers Predictions
Release Date: May 19, 2025
Host: Colin Cowherd
Guest: Jason Temp
Platform: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume

1. Degree Deodorant Formula Controversy ([01:47] - [02:07])

Colin Cowherd opens the episode discussing a significant consumer backlash experienced by Degree deodorant. Last year, Degree altered the formula for their "Cool Rush" scent, which led to widespread dissatisfaction among loyal customers who preferred the original scent.

• Colin: "Degree listens. That doesn't happen often. They admitted they effed up and they're bringing back the original Cool Rush scent." ([01:47])

Colin highlights the rarity of a major brand acknowledging a misstep and rectifying it by reverting to the beloved original formula, emphasizing the importance of customer feedback.

2. Reaction to Nuggets vs. Thunder Game 7 ([03:00] - [06:57])

The core discussion centers around the intense Game 7 between the Denver Nuggets and the Oklahoma City Thunder (OKC), focusing on player performances, injuries, and coaching decisions.

• Colin: "We got a stinker in Game 7 at OKC, which I kind of had a vibe." ([03:05])

Jason Temp provides a detailed analysis of key players:

• Jamal Murray's inconsistent performance and frequent injuries in big games.

• Nikola Jokić appearing "physically overwhelmed" against the Thunder's physical guards.

• OKC's Depth: Emphasizes the depth and energy of the OKC squad, suggesting that their bench strength was a decisive factor.

• Colin: "I think Oklahoma City was favorite. I think we both liked him." ([03:35])

• Jason Temp: "Now Jokic, to your point, especially in that late second quarter run that OKC went on right before the half. Yeah, he just looked physically overwhelmed by how physical their guards are." ([05:25])

The conversation underscores the importance of depth and physicality in playoff basketball, with OKC's stamina and bench strength playing pivotal roles in their victory over Denver.

3. Playoff Formats and Team Depth ([06:00] - [09:16])

Both hosts delve into the evolving landscape of NBA playoffs, advocating for changes in playoff formats to enhance competitiveness and reduce player fatigue.

• Colin: "I think the first round should be five games. I think it was. That's what it was in MJ's era." ([06:57])

They discuss the merits of shorter playoff series, drawing parallels to Michael Jordan's era, and the benefits of faster-paced games. The emphasis is on preventing injuries and maintaining high energy levels throughout the playoffs.

• Jason Temp: "Depth is the recurring theme that I see for sure..." ([08:00])

Jason highlights the depth of several teams, including the Pacers, Thunder, and Timberwolves, stressing that having multiple reliable players off the bench is crucial for sustained playoff success.

4. Analysis of Western vs. Eastern Conference Teams ([09:16] - [15:54])

The hosts compare the coaching strategies, team compositions, and front-office decisions between top Western and Eastern Conference teams.

• Colin: "In the Western Conference, I just love the construct of the rosters." ([09:50])

Jason agrees, noting the strategic depth and versatility of Western teams like Minnesota and OKC, which allow for a variety of tactical options against opponents.

• Jason Temp: "You can, like, good. Oh, good job. You finished the J Dub and Dort phase. Here comes Kayson Wallace and Alex Caruso for your next shift." ([15:00])

They contrast this with Eastern teams, discussing the Knicks and Pacers' strengths and potential weaknesses, particularly focusing on depth and defensive capabilities.

5. Predictions for Knicks vs. Pacers Series ([27:02] - [41:22])

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to predicting the outcomes of the Knicks vs. Pacers playoff series. The discussion covers player performances, team strategies, and historical contexts.

• Colin: "Little shorter version as we get ready for the conference finals. I'm just going to watch the, I'm going to take Indiana and OKC just because of depth and the coaching options." ([40:01])

Jason provides a nuanced perspective, acknowledging the strengths of both teams but leaning slightly towards Minnesota due to their veteran experience and defensive prowess.

• Jason Temp: "I do lean slightly towards Minnesota right now. I think...Julius Randall has been fantastic in this postseason run." ([40:51])

The conversation highlights:

• Indiana Pacers: Strong offensive and defensive play, depth in the roster, and strategic coaching.
• New York Knicks: Improved defensive efforts, key performances from Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle, but concerns about depth and consistency.

Notable quotes:

• Colin: "Well, I think my take is if the Games are close late. I love New York shot making ability." ([29:53])
• Jason: "They are. They have like six different dudes that could go for 20 plus points on any given night." ([27:23])

6. Trends in NBA Playoff Basketball ([11:01] - [15:54])

The discussion shifts to broader trends shaping the NBA playoffs, such as the increasing importance of offensive strategies over traditional defensive dominance.

• Jason Temp: "There is an interesting trend, Colin, towards offense and late playoff success." ([10:30])

They explore how modern coaching emphasizes high-IQ, versatile players who can manage the game's pace and maintain offensive pressure, reducing the reliance on purely star-studded rosters.

• Colin: "I love point guard driven basketball. I love smart point guard play." ([11:01])

This segment emphasizes the shift towards more team-oriented play, where depth and versatility are prioritized over assembling teams with multiple superstars.

7. Impact of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) on the NBA ([31:18] - [37:49])

Colin discusses the effects of NIL deals on player development and team dynamics, arguing that it benefits the NBA by fostering more mature and well-prepared players entering the league.

• Colin: "I think the growth and explosion of NIL money actually helps the NBA." ([31:18])

Jason Temp agrees, noting that increased exposure and financial support allow players to refine their skills and prepare better for professional careers.

• Jason Temp: "They get more mature players. They're just more refined because I think college coaching and the college environment..." ([31:25])

8. Final Thoughts and Predictions ([41:22] - [44:01])

In concluding their analysis, both hosts reaffirm their predictions for the upcoming playoff rounds, emphasizing the critical roles of depth, coaching, and player consistency.

• Colin: "If you told me there were three, you know, three 12 point games in the series, I'd take Indiana." ([29:53])
• Jason Temp: "I think I trust Nas Reed more to score the ball than Chad in terms of over the top shooting." ([41:09])

They express confidence in teams like Indiana and OKC due to their robust rotations and strategic depth, predicting that these factors will be decisive in the later stages of the playoffs.

9. Conclusion ([44:01] - [47:52])

Colin wraps up the episode by reiterating the importance of depth and physicality in the playoffs, aiming to set the stage for the upcoming conference finals. He expresses excitement for the dynamic and unpredictable nature of the NBA playoffs, hinting at a promising series ahead.

• Colin: "First time in NBA history we will have seven different champions in a seven-year stretch and I'm here for it." ([43:06])

Notable Quotes:

1. Colin Cowherd: "Degree listens. That doesn't happen often. They admitted they effed up and they're bringing back the original Cool Rush scent." ([01:47])

2. Jason Temp: "Depth is the recurring theme that I see for sure..." ([08:00])

3. Colin Cowherd: "I love point guard driven basketball. I love smart point guard play." ([11:01])

4. Colin Cowherd: "Little shorter version as we get ready for the conference finals. I'm just going to watch the, I'm going to take Indiana and OKC just because of depth and the coaching options." ([40:01])

5. Jason Temp: "They have like six different dudes that could go for 20 plus points on any given night." ([27:23])

Key Takeaways:

• Team Depth and Coaching: Emphasized as crucial factors for playoff success, with OKC and Indiana highlighted for their robust rosters and strategic depth.

• Evolving NBA Strategies: Shift towards offensive-driven play and versatile, high-IQ players is transforming playoff dynamics.

• Player Development: NIL deals positively impacting player readiness and maturity as they transition from college to professional play.

• Playoff Predictions: Strong leanings towards Indiana Pacers and Oklahoma City Thunder advancing due to their depth, coaching, and player performances.

This episode provides an in-depth analysis of the current NBA playoff landscape, focusing on team dynamics, coaching strategies, and player performances. Colin Cowherd and Jason Temp offer insightful predictions and highlight the evolving trends shaping the future of NBA basketball.