Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – Hour 1: Defending Redick

Release Date: May 2, 2025
Hosts: Jason McIntyre (for Colin Cowherd), Alex Curry, Rick Bucher
Guest: J.J. Redick
Duration: Approximately 53 minutes

1. Breaking NBA News: Coaching Changes

Timestamp: [03:03] – [05:14]

The episode kicks off with Jason McIntyre announcing significant coaching changes in the NBA. Notably, Greg Popovich has stepped down as the head coach of the San Antonio Spurs, transitioning to a full-time role in the front office. This move marks the end of an era, as Popovich has been synonymous with Spurs' success for over three decades.

Rick Bucher quips, "Every time we're in, we get like head coach in the NBA. Breaking news." highlighting the frequency of coaching turnovers.

Jason McIntyre reflects on recent coaching shifts, mentioning Michael Malone's firing from the Nuggets and Popovich's resignation from the Spurs, emphasizing the ongoing turbulence in NBA coaching roles.

2. Jalen Brunson's Clutch Performance Shines for the Knicks

Timestamp: [05:15] – [09:46]

The discussion transitions to the New York Knicks' recent victory over the Detroit Pistons, spotlighting Jalen Brunson's exceptional performance. Brunson delivered a game-winning three-pointer with just four seconds left, earning him the title of Clutch NBA Player of the Year due to his impressive 64% shooting in critical game moments.

Jason McIntyre shares his admiration: "Jalen Brunson, born for clutch basketball moments. ... He's rapidly climbing like best Knicks player ever." Drawing parallels with legends like Steph Curry, McIntyre praises Brunson's ability to perform under pressure despite being undersized at 6'1".

Rick Bucher adds context to Brunson's rise, comparing his impact to that of historical Knicks greats and underscoring his importance to the team's advancement to the next playoff round.

3. Defending J.J. Redick: A Controversial Stance

Timestamp: [09:47] – [35:01]

A significant portion of the episode centers around defending J.J. Redick, the coach of the Lakers, who faced criticism for his decisions during the playoffs. Specifically, Redick was scrutinized for keeping the starting lineup intact during the crucial second half of Game 4 against the Minnesota Timberwolves, which ultimately led to the Lakers' elimination.

Jason McIntyre passionately defends Redick, questioning the media's backlash: "I'm sorry, but I cannot understand the media and the fans piling on JJ Redick as if he's the reason the Lakers lost..."

He argues that Redick's decision was a strategic choice given the roster's condition, highlighting the Lakers' reliance on a limited bench and Redick's trust in his starting five. McIntyre emphasizes that the Lakers' struggle was more about the overall roster's performance rather than Redick's coaching.

J.J. Redick, as a guest, shares his perspective on coaching under pressure and the challenges he faced during the playoffs. He recounts his interactions with Popovich and discusses the importance of team dynamics and player conditioning.

Notable Quote:

Jason McIntyre [09:53]: "He is a little combative. He's not backing down from anybody. That's what kind of made him a great player. I kind of defend him on playing his starting or his best five the entire second half of game four."

4. NBA Playoff Physicality: Nuggets vs. Clippers

Timestamp: [16:26] – [25:46]

The hosts delve into the increasing physicality of the NBA playoffs, using the Denver Nuggets vs. Los Angeles Clippers series as a case study. McIntyre criticizes the intensified fouling and physical play, drawing comparisons to the 90s NBA era.

Jason McIntyre expresses concern over the decline in basketball aesthetics: "This is not the movie Gladiator, guys. I'm sorry. It's basketball. Let the skilled artisans go to work."

He highlights Nikola Jokic's excessive free throw attempts despite limited fouls, questioning the referees' consistency and the league's enforcement of rules. The hosts debate whether the NBA's current direction is detracting from the sport's entertainment value.

Rick Bucher supports the notion of maintaining physicality but acknowledges the potential downsides: "It's like 90s basketball all over again. It's fantastic." However, he also recognizes the thin line between competitive intensity and unsportsmanlike conduct.

Notable Quote:

Jason McIntyre [21:08]: "We have to get in championship shape. I mean, that's extremely well said. Notice Redick didn't do this after game three or after game four. You don't want to do that with your superstar in the middle of a series. This is Smart by JJ Redick."

5. NFL Draft Insights: Malik Neighbors and Travis Hunter

Timestamp: [30:20] – [36:37]

Shifting focus to the NFL, the discussion touches on the draft strategies and player selections. Malik Neighbors, a second-year Giants wide receiver, criticized his team's decision-making, particularly the quarterback's fifth-round pick status. The hosts analyze the implications of such decisions on team dynamics and player morale.

Additionally, the acquisition of Travis Hunter by the Jacksonville Jaguars is examined. Hunter, a versatile player capable of excelling on both offense and defense, sparks debate about his potential impact and the feasibility of him winning both Offensive and Defensive Rookie of the Year.

Rick Bucher emphasizes the strategic placement of Hunter: "They intend to work Hunter in on the offensive side of the ball first, so that means he's probably going to get a little more time at wide receiver."

6. Future of the Spurs and Wembanyama's Prospects

Timestamp: [41:20] – [50:54]

The conversation returns to the Spurs, following Popovich's resignation. The hosts speculate on the future direction of the team and the impact on rising star Victor Wembanyama. They discuss the challenges the Spurs face in maintaining their competitive edge without Popovich's legendary coaching prowess.

J.J. Redick remarks on Popovich's influence: "Greg Popovich is no longer going to be a head coach... It's a sad shift in the NBA universe."

They also explore potential trade scenarios, including the possibility of acquiring Giannis Antetokounmpo, and how the Spurs might leverage their assets to build a championship-contending team around Wembanyama.

Notable Quote:

Jason McIntyre [44:47]: "How about Sengun or Amen Thompson in a package for Giannis?"

7. Concluding Remarks and Final Thoughts

Timestamp: [51:55] – [53:03]

As the episode draws to a close, the hosts briefly recap the main topics discussed, emphasizing the importance of strategic decision-making in coaching and player management. They also touch on upcoming games, including the Rockets vs. Warriors showdown.

Jason McIntyre wraps up with a final defense of J.J. Redick, encouraging listeners to understand the complexities of coaching decisions beyond surface-level judgments.

Rick Bucher and Alex Curry share light-hearted banter about favorite comfort movies and TV shows, providing a personal touch to the episode's conclusion.

Key Takeaways:

• Greg Popovich's Resignation: Marks the end of a monumental coaching career with the Spurs, raising questions about the team's future strategy and leadership.

• Jalen Brunson's Emergence: Brunson is solidifying his status as a clutch performer and one of the best Knicks players in recent history.

• Defending J.J. Redick: Amidst criticism, Redick's strategic decisions during the Lakers' playoff run are defended as a response to the team's limited bench strength.

• NBA Playoff Physicality: Increased physicality in the playoffs is a double-edged sword, enhancing competitiveness but potentially harming the game's appeal.

• NFL Draft Dynamics: Player selections and team strategies in the NFL draft have significant implications for team performance and player development.

• Future of the Spurs: The Spurs face a pivotal transition period as they seek a new head coach to lead and maximize the potential of star player Victor Wembanyama.

Notable Quotes:

• Jason McIntyre [09:53]: "He is a little combative. He's not backing down from anybody. That's what kind of made him a great player. I kind of defend him on playing his starting or his best five the entire second half of game four." – Defending J.J. Redick’s coaching decisions.

• Jason McIntyre [21:08]: "We have to get in championship shape. I mean, that's extremely well said. Notice Redick didn't do this after game three or after game four. You don't want to do that with your superstar in the middle of a series. This is Smart by JJ Redick." – Highlighting strategic coaching under pressure.

• Jason McIntyre [44:47]: "How about Sengun or Amen Thompson in a package for Giannis?" – Discussing potential trade scenarios for the Spurs.

Conclusion:

Hour 1 of "Defending Redick" provides an in-depth exploration of recent coaching changes in the NBA, the rise of Jalen Brunson, and the contentious criticism faced by J.J. Redick. The hosts adeptly navigate through player performances, strategic decisions, and broader league dynamics, offering listeners a comprehensive analysis of current sports narratives.