Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd Episode: Hour 1 - Defending Luka Release Date: July 2, 2025
1. Introduction to the Episode
The episode kicks off with Jason McIntyre stepping in for Colin Cowherd, who is traveling. The hosts set the stage for a lively discussion centered around current sports topics, with a particular focus on NBA star Luka Doncic and the U.S. Men's National Soccer Team's performance in the Gold Cup.
2. Defending Luka Doncic
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to defending Luka Doncic amidst a surge of criticism from fans, media, and even former players.
- Colin Cowherd [03:34]: "But let's just pump the brakes on the Luka Doncic bashing. And yes, I get it. He's coming off a season where he was injured and he got traded. And hey, if the Dallas Mavericks can move off Luka, how good is he, right?"
Cowherd challenges the recent negative narratives surrounding Doncic by highlighting his impressive achievements:
- Colin Cowherd [06:15]: "In the last 40 years, no player has started their NBA career as good as Luka Doncic. Not Michael Jordan, not LeBron James, not Shaq."
He emphasizes Luka's impact on the Mavericks and his unparalleled ability to elevate his teammates:
- Colin Cowherd [10:45]: "Nobody makes their teammates better in the NBA better than Luka Doncic."
The discussion also touches upon Luka's cautious approach to injuries, contrasting it with other players who may rush back, underscoring his commitment to long-term success.
3. NBA Trade News: Damian Lillard and the Bucks
The hosts delve into the recent controversial move by the Milwaukee Bucks to waive Damian Lillard, a significant shake-up in the NBA landscape.
- Colin Cowherd [26:53]: "Damian Lillard was waived by the Bucks yesterday, and some execs say he won the basketball lottery. Milwaukee will have to pay Lillard out $113 million over the next five years."
Landon Donovan analyzes the impact of this move, suggesting it was a precarious decision for the Bucks:
- Landon Donovan [29:16]: "It felt like a desperate move, and you never want to be desperate. It's like you go house hunting, which I'm sure, you know, you've done."
They discuss the potential future scenarios for both Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo, questioning the Bucks' strategy and its implications for their championship aspirations.
4. US Men's National Soccer Team and the Gold Cup
A comprehensive examination of the U.S. Men's National Soccer Team's performance in the Gold Cup, featuring insights from guest Landon Donovan.
- Landon Donovan [42:05]: "Guatemala is not a top CONCACAF team. This is the first time, I believe, in 30 something years they've been to the semifinals of a Gold Cup. So I expect us to win. It will not be easy. J. Mac, soccer never is because goals are hard to score."
Donovan praises the team's resilience and the coaching strategies implemented by Mauricio Pochettino:
- Donovan [44:20]: "Having that amount of time together is priceless with a national team. It's absolutely priceless."
He highlights the emergence of new talent and the importance of player availability and commitment:
- Donovan [47:40]: "The guys who are there right now have said, I don't care what happens. I'm not... I'm kicking that thing down and I'm coming in."
The discussion underscores the team's potential to progress to the semifinals and the positive trajectory leading up to the 2026 World Cup hosted in the U.S.
5. NFL Insights: Travis Kelce and Team Dynamics
The episode transitions to NFL discussions, focusing on Travis Kelce's evolving motivation and his impact on the Kansas City Chiefs.
- Colin Cowherd [31:02]: "He's saying what champions say. Right. It's not about the personal accolades, it's about winning the chips."
Landon Donovan explores how veteran players like Kelce are shifting their focus from personal statistics to team success, emphasizing the importance of legacy and teamwork over individual achievements.
6. Jets' Offseason Changes and AFC East Outlook
The hosts analyze the New York Jets' extensive offseason changes, including new coaching staff and quarterback Justin Fields, assessing their potential impact on the team's performance.
- Colin Cowherd [35:00]: "New quarterback, new front office, new coaching staff. They're also a franchise that hasn't reached the postseason since 2010."
They discuss the challenges and opportunities presented by such significant changes, comparing the Jets' approach to other teams like the Commanders who have recently seen success despite similar overhauls.
7. Guest Appearance: Landon Donovan on Soccer Development
Landon Donovan shares his expert perspective on the U.S. Men's National Soccer Team's development, the integration of new players, and the strategic decisions made by the coaching staff.
- Donovan [49:35]: "Pochettino is appreciating what it means to play for your national team. You either do this or you're not playing."
He highlights the players who have stepped up during the Gold Cup, emphasizing their dedication and the positive message it sends to the broader team dynamics.
8. Closing Remarks
The episode wraps up with a teaser for upcoming discussions, including potential movements of high-profile players like LeBron James and the future prospects of the Lakers alongside Luka Doncic.
Notable Quotes:
- "Nobody makes their teammates better in the NBA better than Luka Doncic." — Colin Cowherd [10:45]
- "The guys who are there right now have said, I don't care what happens. I'm not... I'm kicking that thing down and I'm coming in." — Landon Donovan [47:40]
- "Pochettino is absolutely priceless." — Landon Donovan [44:20]
This episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd provides an in-depth analysis of key sports narratives, defending Luka Doncic's legacy, dissecting major NBA trades, evaluating the U.S. Men's National Soccer Team's strategies, and exploring significant changes in the NFL, all enriched with expert insights and compelling discussions.