Hour 2 - Being a better leader

Summary

Podcast Title: The Herd with Colin Cowherd
Episode: Hour 2 - Being a Better Leader
Release Date: July 2, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume
Description: The Herd with Colin Cowherd is a thought-provoking, opinionated, and topic-driven journey through the top sports stories of the day.

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Introduction

In this episode titled "Being a Better Leader," Colin Cowherd, along with guest analysts Yovan Buha and Jason McIntyre, delves into various leadership dynamics within the sports world. From basketball leadership on and off the court to evaluating leadership qualities in football and baseball, the discussion offers deep insights into what makes a leader effective in high-pressure environments.

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Leadership in the NFL: Lamar Jackson's Challenges

Timestamp: [04:01]

The episode opens with a critical analysis of Lamar Jackson, the dynamic quarterback for the Baltimore Ravens. Colin Cowherd addresses the common perception of leadership, emphasizing that while Lamar is a two-time MVP and undeniably talented, his performance in the playoffs has been inconsistent.

Key Points:

• Lamar's Playoff Performance: Despite his regular-season successes, Lamar has struggled in the postseason, leading to questions about his leadership under pressure.
• Leadership Style: Lamar identifies his leadership weakness as "being a leader," admitting that he doesn't possess the traditional vocal leadership style but instead leads by example.

Notable Quotes:

• Yovan Buha: “I really don't… [05:17]”
• Colin Cowherd: “Leadership. You either have that or you don't. I don't think, like, five years into the league, something snaps and you're a leader.”

Discussion: The conversation highlights the difference between leading by example and vocal leadership, pondering whether Lamar's quiet demeanor impacts his effectiveness as a leader during critical playoff moments. The hosts debate whether leadership qualities can evolve over time or if they are inherently tied to an individual's personality.

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The Lakers' Deandre Ayton Free Agency

Timestamp: [08:13]

Shifting focus to the NBA, the trio discusses the impending free agency decision of Deandre Ayton, the Los Angeles Lakers' center. With Ayton likely making his decision on the day, the conversation explores potential landing spots and the implications for both Ayton and the Lakers.

Key Points:

• Potential Destinations: Golden State Warriors and Indiana Pacers are highlighted as primary options due to their need for a starting center.
• Cultural Fit and Performance: Concerns are raised about Ayton's cultural fit and his performance consistency, especially regarding his lack of floor stretching and limited offensive versatility.
• Lakers' Options: If Ayton opts out, the Lakers may need to consider trade options or alternative signings, such as Al Horford, to fill the center role.

Notable Quotes:

• Yovan Buha: “He doesn't really stretch the floor, he doesn't get to the foul line… [11:00]”
• Colin Cowherd: “I think the Lakers probably provide the best opportunity. You're going to be in the spotlight.”

Discussion: The analysts weigh the pros and cons of Ayton staying with the Lakers or moving to another team, considering both financial aspects and team dynamics. The conversation also touches upon the challenges the Lakers face in maintaining flexibility under the Salary Cap to attract high-caliber talent.

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Knicks Hire Mike Brown as Head Coach

Timestamp: [32:57]

In a significant NBA coaching move, the New York Knicks have reportedly hired Mike Brown as their new head coach. Brown's extensive experience, including championships with the Golden State Warriors and San Antonio Spurs, is a focal point of discussion.

Key Points:

• Coaching Resume: Brown's history of winning as an assistant coach and his previous head coaching stints are highlighted as assets for the Knicks.
• Impact on Team Dynamics: The expectation is that Brown will bring a player-friendly approach, contrasting with his predecessor Thibodeau's more traditional coaching style.
• Future Projections: Both Colin and Yovan express optimism that with Brown at the helm, the Knicks are poised to contend strongly in the Eastern Conference.

Notable Quotes:

• Colin Cowherd: “Is this the right fit? Yeah, I mean… [33:47]”
• Yovan Buha: “I like a couple small moves they made fortify their bench. I like the bright Mike Brown move.”

Discussion: The hosts believe that Mike Brown's leadership and coaching philosophy will rejuvenate the Knicks, positioning them as serious contenders for the NBA Finals. They discuss how Brown's experience with star players like LeBron James could translate to success in New York.

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Potential LeBron James Trade Scenarios

Timestamp: [16:54]

A speculative segment explores the unlikely scenario of LeBron James being traded to other NBA franchises, focusing on potential trade packages and the feasibility of such a move.

Key Points:

• LeBron’s Trade Demand: Although highly improbable, the discussion considers the implications if LeBron were to seek a trade.
• Possible Trade Packages: Potential assets, including players like Mitchell Robinson or Klay Thompson, are discussed, evaluating whether teams like the Knicks or Cavaliers could feasibly land LeBron without compromising too much.
• Mobility and Future Plans: LeBron’s no-trade clause and personal legacy aspirations are considered as significant barriers to any such trade.

Notable Quotes:

• Colin Cowherd: “He has not asked for a trade. There's been no discussion… [16:03]”
• Yovan Buha: “What the hell are they getting for? For LeBron?”

Discussion: The conversation underscores the complexity and low probability of trading a player of LeBron's stature, highlighting how such a move would require monumental shifts in team rosters and financial commitments. The hosts conclude that while entertaining to ponder, a LeBron trade remains outside the realm of practicality.

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Luka Doncic's Leadership and Performance Critique

Timestamp: [22:05]

The episode transitions to Luka Doncic’s role and leadership within the Dallas Mavericks, addressing the criticisms he has faced despite his standout performances.

Key Points:

• Performance Under Scrutiny: Luka's inconsistencies in critical games, especially in playoff scenarios, are examined.
• Leadership Qualities: Comparisons are made between Luka and other leaders like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA), questioning Luka's defensive contributions and overall leadership on the court.
• Future Potential: The discussion contemplates Luka's growth trajectory and whether his current performance aligns with his MVP status.

Notable Quotes:

• Yovan Buha: “If you ask my wife, she would say Jake, that's my, my husband for sports… [23:15]”
• Colin Cowherd: “Call Shai Gilgeous-Alexander a Finals MVP. That was deserved.”

Discussion: The analysts debate whether Luka's leadership style is effective and sustainable at the highest levels of competition. They also discuss the impact of external factors like Luka's offseason behaviors and off-court rhetoric on his public and professional image.

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Shohei Ohtani’s MLB Excellence

Timestamp: [42:37]

Shifting to baseball, Shohei Ohtani's remarkable performance continues to impress, with the discussion highlighting his unique two-way capabilities as both a pitcher and a hitter.

Key Points:

• Home Run Milestone: Ohtani's achievement of hitting his 30th home run of the season ties him with legends like Ken Griffey Jr., showcasing his extraordinary talent.
• Versatility and Impact: The conversation emphasizes Ohtani's dual role and his impact on the game, asserting that his achievements set him apart as a once-in-a-generation athlete.
• Record-Breaking Potential: Ohtani's current records, particularly his home runs while maintaining pitching duties, are deemed unbreakable due to the specialized nature of his role.

Notable Quotes:

• Colin Cowherd: “This kid is a unicorn and a gift for the game of baseball. We are never going to see a player like this again… [42:56]”
• Yovan Buha: “He has so much respect for the game right now.”

Discussion: Ohtani's dedication, training regimen, and inherent skill are praised, with the hosts forecasting a lasting legacy that will influence future generations in baseball. They argue that his unique talents make him indispensable and irreplaceable within the sport.

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NFL Leadership and Team Dynamics

Timestamp: [37:22]

The discussion returns to the NFL, focusing on team dynamics and leadership choices, specifically addressing the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and their culture.

Key Points:

• Chris Godwin’s Decision: Godwin choosing to stay with the Buccaneers despite lucrative offers reflects a leadership-driven culture prioritizing team success over individual financial gain.
• Legacy vs. Compensation: The perennial debate of choosing between maximizing earnings ("the bag") and pursuing championships ("the ring") is explored, stressing how different players prioritize these aspects based on their career stages.

Notable Quotes:

• Jason McIntyre: “...offering him more money. Mayfield went on to add that the Bucks are a bunch of good guys who just want to win… [36:00]”
• Yovan Buha: “Do you want the bag or do you want the ring?”

Discussion: The hosts debate the ethical and personal considerations athletes face in balancing financial security with competitive aspirations. They use real-world examples to illustrate how leadership and team culture influence player decisions and career trajectories.

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Loyalty and Contract Negotiations in the NBA

Timestamp: [50:11]

In a heated segment, the conversation turns to the concept of loyalty within the NBA, using Miles Turner's departure from the Indiana Pacers to the Milwaukee Bucks as a case study.

Key Points:

• Turner's Departure: The Pacers' decision to offer Turner a reduced contract resulted in his move to the Bucks, sparking discussions about team loyalty and ownership priorities.
• Impact of Luxury Tax: Changes in NBA financial regulations and the imposition of luxury taxes are scrutinized for their role in influencing team decisions regarding player retention and loyalty.
• Fan and Player Reactions: The episode highlights the backlash from fans and players alike, condemning the Pacers' inability to honor longstanding commitments.

Notable Quotes:

• Yovan Buha: “We have to try to maximize that… [52:43]”
• Colin Cowherd: “It's tough to find guys like that who can stretch the floor and hit threes… [35:34]”

Discussion: The analysts critique the Pacers' management decisions, emphasizing how financial constraints and modern NBA dynamics undermine traditional notions of loyalty. They argue that the evolving landscape of the league forces teams to prioritize financial flexibility over long-term player relationships.

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Conclusion

Throughout this episode, Colin Cowherd and his guests provide a comprehensive analysis of leadership qualities across different sports, emphasizing the importance of both on-field performance and off-field influence. From dissecting the leadership challenges faced by athletes like Lamar Jackson and Luka Doncic to evaluating the strategic decisions behind coaching hires and player trades, the discussion offers valuable insights into what it takes to be an effective leader in high-stakes environments.

Final Notable Quotes:

• Colin Cowherd: “This is the only kryptonite he has. The calendar turns to January and all of a sudden Lamar Jackson… [05:33]”
• Yovan Buha: “...the idea of loyalty. Hey, Turner, you should have stayed with us. No… [52:43]”

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This detailed summary encapsulates the multifaceted discussions on leadership within the sports realm, providing listeners with a nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in guiding teams and athletes to success.

Transcript

[Colin Cowherd]

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[Jason McIntyre]

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[Jason McIntyre]

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[Yovan Buha]

Now let's get this party started. You're listening to Fox Sports radio. Our number two here on the herd, Jason McIntyre in for Colin Cowherd. Jet setting? I don't know. Where is he? Ibiza. Is that where he is right now?

[Colin Cowherd]

I have no idea. You tell me.

[Yovan Buha]

I love Ibiza. I haven't been there.

[Colin Cowherd]

We honeymooned in Ibiza.

[Yovan Buha]

What a life. Alex Curry joining me. We got Jovan Buha coming up in, I don't know, five minutes. Listen, Lakers fans are like on the edge, Alex, right now.

[Colin Cowherd]

They're breathing. We're okay. Okay. I, I'm not as concerned, I think, as everybody else as we talked about last hour. LeBron knows how to get the conversation going. This is what he does. What, what does his hat say?

[Jason McIntyre]

Welcome home.

[Yovan Buha]

Welcome home. Yeah, it's a message.

[Colin Cowherd]

But he is back home. Well, I thought he's playing golf in.

[Yovan Buha]

Ohio with LeBron, like hanging around, seeing what the hell's going on, but he's out here anyways. All right, real quick, before we get to Yovon, I just got to talk about, like, I like Lamar Jackson. I know people think you don't like him, Jay. You're critical. That's what we do. We're critical of everybody. Patrick Mahomes, Jalen hurts LeBron, everybody. And Lamar Jackson is a two time MVP. He's a dynamic player when he's on. You're watching. He came out here to sofi to play. I think it was the Chargers, either last year or two years ago. I was at the game. He's electrifying. You can't take your eyes off him. He's unbelievable. And he keeps coming up empty in the playoffs, which is fine. You know, not everybody wins right out of the gate, but Lamar went on some, some digital show with Kevin Hart. I need to take a quick time out. Kevin Hart, for my money, is the funniest guy going. I know people like Theo Vaughn and The. All these other comics. Kevin Hart's a man. I'm a huge fan. His movies, his stand up. I've seen him live. He's great. Kevin Hart also does, like, an ice tub thing where he invites people on and talks to them. And here's what Lamar Jackson said to Kevin Hart about the one thing, okay, one thing he needs to improve on to get the Ravens over the hump. Just being a leader. Okay? I'm gonna say being a leader because I'm.

[Jason McIntyre]

I really don't.

[Yovan Buha]

I'm really not outspoken, like, being vocal with my guys, like, oh, let's do this, and that. Got a great motivational speech. I don't have that. You know, I just pretty much lead by example. I go out there, I'm gonna work hard. I expect that out of you. But as I've been, like, growing in the league, it's like, nah, you got.

[Unnamed Analyst]

To talk to the guys, coaches and.

[Yovan Buha]

Stuff like to tell me, talk to the guys. I'm like, all right, now I talk to them one on one. But certain things I'm seeing, I gotta voice it more. What's my opinion? More to those guys? Yeah. I don't know. It's like when you're in a job interview and, you know, they ask you one of these, like, what's your biggest weakness? And you give one of these answers that says, like, I don't have a weakness. You know, not having a weakness. That's my weakness. Like, something like that. And I'm like, really? Leadership. You either have that or you don't. I don't think, like, five years into the league, something snaps and you're a leader. Like, Justin Herbert is quiet and just doesn't say much. That's who he is. He's not changing. You know, Patrick Mahomes is a fiery dude. He was that way at Texas Tech. He's that way in the NFL. He's not changing. Lamar Jackson's a quiet guy. He doesn't say a lot. Tom Brady, remember him on the sideline with the Patriots? He would F bomb people and dog custom. That's who he was. Fiery. Everybody's different when it comes to leadership. If Lamar was given truth serum before the Kevin Hart interview, what's the biggest. Hey, man, I've had some rotten playoff games going to Buffalo. I couldn't do anything. This past year in Buffalo, I started slow. Fumble, interception. I got us in the hole. I can't play like that on the road. I haven't delivered in the playoffs. And it's like, yeah, I get It Mark Andrews, if he catches that, it's a different discussion. But look at the game log of Lamar Jackson. He has not been great in the playoffs and yeah, I see the drops on the screen and that's not always on him. Obviously what's his name against Kansas City when they were at home, had the fumble. The young receiver Zay Flowers had a brutal game but right out of the gate like Lamar Jackson wasn't awesome. Teams have seen him, they know how to game plan for him. He needs to become a different quarterback in the postseason and that's not a knock, it's just a reality right now. That's the only kryptonite he has. The calendar turns to January and all of a sudden Lamar Jackson, oh shoot, what are we getting here? Are we in trouble? I mean look at the numbers three and five in the playoffs. Completion percentage down, passer rating down. It hasn't been great. Now you're playing the best of the best. But for a two time mvp. That to me is his weakness. I don't want to hear this leadership nonsense. All right, let's go back to the NBA and bring in Jovan Buha who covers the league, he covers the Lakers closely. Let's welcome in Yovon who's listen the last time he was here, absolute fire. And now the pressure's on Yovon. Obviously not just because you're a free agent, but also there's some free agent stuff swirling around. And the Lakers fans want to know right now what is the status with deandre Ayton in Los Angeles?

[Unnamed Analyst]

My understanding is he's likely going to make his decision today. He clears waivers at 5pm Eastern time. There's a bit of a Deandre Ayton sweepstakes going on right now for a guy who is on a $35 million contract, gets bought out and now is going to be that probably 8 to $14 million range. So you got a couple of options with the full non taxpayer mle. Golden State and Indiana both need starting centers. Indiana just lost Myles Turner. They also have a relationship with Ayton. They offered him a max contract offer sheet back in 2022, which he signed. So there was a second there where it looked like he was going to be their center of the future. Then you got the Lakers who only have $8.25 million because they split part of that MLE on Jake LaRavia. So I think the Lakers probably provide the best opportunity. You're going to be in the spotlight. You're going to be starting playing with Luka potentially playing with LeBron and theoretically being on a team with some know, contending odds. So I think that's the best opportunity for him. But also like money talks and other teams can offer him more money.

[Yovan Buha]

I mean, he got number one pick money. He got a second contract, which is huge. Yeah, I mean 14 million versus 8. If it just comes down to that, Lakers are going to lose out on that.

[Unnamed Analyst]

And he's still getting the 25 million from Portland. So he would be taking like I guess a 1.75 million shaving off of that 35 if he goes to the Lakers, whereas actually if he goes to the other teams, he could technically make more money on top of the 35 because you know, it would be an offset of like 4 extra million dollars. But I think, you know, right now that they're weighing their options is my understanding him and his camp. But it sounds like around the time of him clearing waivers, we should have.

[Yovan Buha]

A better idea from just a fit perspective. I gotta ask like culturally, did you read the article about him where it's like he was late to flights and practice, he couldn't make it to a game because of icy roads. Like there was, there's a lot of stuff that apparently trickled out in Portland. They were like, we got to get this guy out of here. And now the Lakers want to bring him in.

[Unnamed Analyst]

Yeah, I mean that's certainly concerning. But if you look at the center options right now and free agency, the Alternative is a 39 year old Al Horford, who I think I would go Al Horford. I like Al Horford. I just think, you know, in comparison to like rebounding, rim protection, I think Deandre Ayton as a 26 year old is just at a different level than Al Horford right now. Like they were load managing Al Horford in Boston and I don't think he's a guy who can hold up over the course of an 82 game season. So I think the Lakers need a legit starting center and Ayton is one. Now there are some flaws and there are some drawbacks. I think he's very talented, he's very skilled. Of course there have been times where it seems like the motor or the motivation have not always been there. And I think that's something that he's in a contract year effectively so he's going to have to prove himself.

[Yovan Buha]

He doesn't really stretch the floor, he doesn't get to the foul line. He, he's not. I mean I, you, I saw the video catching some lobs, but he's not like the lively Gafford type. He's more of a throwback, a back to the basket guy.

[Unnamed Analyst]

I will. All seven years he's averaged a double double. So like you are getting a baseline level of rebounding with him. Shot 80% at the rim last year, which I think, you know, that's not all dunks, but he's got soft touch with hook shots, floaters. Like I think the offensive skill is there. I think he's arguably the best like realistic offensive option they could get. It's the defensive end that I, I, I'm interested to see. But some of his rim protection numbers are good. Good defensive rebounder like you, you could certainly do worse. Which I would argue the Lakers did last year with, with their center.

[Yovan Buha]

Yeah. Yeah. Okay. So, so Ayton, let's say Ayton picks the warriors or whoever. Oh, wow. They're just sending me some breaking news. Are you ready for this?

[Unnamed Analyst]

Sure.

[Yovan Buha]

It's not Lakers related. The Knicks are expected to land Mike Brown as the next head coach of the franchise.

[Unnamed Analyst]

Wow.

[Yovan Buha]

So not a huge surprise. And we'll come back to the Knicks.

[Unnamed Analyst]

He's the favorite.

[Yovan Buha]

Yeah, yeah, he was a favorite. So if the Lakers don't get Ayton and then Al Horford, is there anyone else out there? I can't, I mean Luke Cornett got way too much money, but he would have been the starting center of the Lakers.

[Unnamed Analyst]

Yeah, I mean Jackson Hayes is still out there. Alex Lennon. Can I, can I, Alex, can I sell you. There's precious Achua for from New York who's an interesting. Yeah, so, but, but I think at that point they have to pivot and make a trade. Really? At that.

[Yovan Buha]

Like, but then who do they have to trade? Rui or Austin Reeves?

[Unnamed Analyst]

Depends on the salary for the player. Like a guy like Walker Kessler who is like, they're not, I don't think they're getting Walker Kessler, but like that he's on a rookie scale contract. So you could do something like the, the Mark Williams package of Dalton connect a first, a swap second, something like that. Where you're not really giving up much in salary and you're trading a bench player for a starter. So like that's probably the optimal trade.

[Yovan Buha]

Oh, if they could get Walker Kessler for Delta.

[Unnamed Analyst]

I don't think they're getting Walker Kessler, but could they get a Nick Claxton from Brooklyn? Could they get a Gafford from Dallas? Circle the block.

[Yovan Buha]

Let's quickly talk about Dallas. So, and there's a LeBron. There's so much stuff I want to actually, I'm sorry, let me go back to Jake Laravia.

[Unnamed Analyst]

Okay.

[Yovan Buha]

A lot of Laker fans are outraged and there's all these memes around. What the hell is it? Jake Lavia. But you told me something that I hadn't seen online about Jake Laravia. What's the connection to the Lakers?

[Unnamed Analyst]

Shares an agency with Austin Reeves and he actually did a interview this summer and at the end of the interview he pans and he's in the car with Austin Reeves. So they were spending some time together this offseason. So assuming Austin put on his recruiting hat and told him about his experience in LA and what it's like to be a Laker, and that was a selling point for sure. But I will say I've been in the lab diving into the Jake Laravia film and it's impressive for a 23 year old. Here we go, here we go. Look, this is. The guy's a former first round pick from. He's played three years and he played in Memphis and Sacramento, so he's not a household name. He's playing in two small markets that don't get a lot of attention. He was a bench player, but they're counting on him to in some ways be the Dorian Finney Smith replacement. And like watching his film, I, I have a film breakdown coming out on my YouTube channel later and like he's guarding Jokic and he's doing the Caruso of fronting him, deflecting entry passes. He's switching on to Tatum and Kawhi. Like he's. I think people look at him and they don't expect him to be good defensively, but he is actually pretty good against wings and then 43% three point shooter last year. So like I think he can actually do some things for them. At $6 million like we're talking about, you know, not even half the mid level. Like, I think that's pretty good value.

[Yovan Buha]

So when you said Laravia shares an agent with Reeves, I instantly, you know, I'm going next step. They're not trading Austin Reaves. He's sticking around you. You don't do that move with Reaves agent. You clearly like the agent and you trust him and you like Reaves and the work ethic for Laravia. So they're not moving off Austin Reaves. Can we just put that to bed or no?

[Unnamed Analyst]

I think so. For this summer, of course. We'll see how next season goes. And now there's this talk of them having this 2027 plan and trying to keep the cap sheet flexibility to go get a second superstar in the summer of 2027 or maybe trade for one going into that summer. So I think depending on how this next season goes with him, how he fares in the playoffs and then also what type of contract he gets, I think all those are factors that could determine whether he ultimately gets traded at some point in the future. But for this summer they've been telegraphing it like they've called him a pillar of the franchise. They offered him the max contract extension that they could. It was below market value so he didn't take it. But I think he is someone who is going to be a part of the Lakers for at least next season and then we'll see ultimately with the next contract.

[Yovan Buha]

Okay, so let's go to the breaking news here. So the Knicks move off Tibbs last month and now bring in Mike Brown. I'll bring it to LeBron in a second. First of all, I'm curious, do you think Mike Brown is an upgrade over Thibodeau?

[Unnamed Analyst]

I think it's close. I think from a personality perspective he is and that's always the variable here that is hard to quantify of just tibs can be grading on people. Like we have enough of sample size of that of some players just don't mesh well with that. And I think that old school style of coaching has kind of gone away in the NBA. So I think from a personality perspective especially going to feels like Golden State is the place as a retread head coach you want to go to join that assistant coaching staff and learn from Steve Kerr kind of the modern way of coaching which I think is a more player friendly approach. So I think from that perspective he will be in terms of X's and O's defense like Tibbs is pretty good in that regard. I think he'll play a deeper rotation. So I think that's probably upgrade. But sometimes you just need a new voice. Tibbs was there for five years and does feel like with the coaching cycle now guys get three to five years and you got to try to maximize that.

[Yovan Buha]

So I'll ask you about Mike Brown dating back to his early LeBron days. I can you really judge Mike Brown from coaching? LeBron won 50 games, 150 lost in the conference finals, 160. Like I don't really count that. So then you've got one year with the Lakers and then he got fired the next year fight like five games in and then he was pretty good in Sacramento. I Don't really know. But what some of my Knicks friends are saying, Jay, there's one potential landing spot for LeBron and that could be the New York Knicks. The Cavs would probably have to give up too much. Mike Brown knows LeBron. What, what, what about LeBron getting traded to the Knicks for an OG? Mitchell, Robinson, whatever. Do you think there's any world where LeBron gets traded?

[Unnamed Analyst]

I think there's a world, but I think it's. I would put the odds very low right now. I mean he has not asked for a trade. There's been no discussion between Rich Paul and the Lakers about a potential trade. It's hard to look at that statement and not read into it and then see the subsequent actions by the Lakers of not retaining Dorian Finney Smith and then signing a 23 year old and Jake Laravia, then having this report come out that they're looking at 2027 as the summer to really get that second star build around Luca. So the moves they're making are trending in a younger short term window and not necessarily win now. Maximize LeBron's 23rd season, maximize LeBron's potential 24th season. So if I'm LeBron and I think they kind of put it out in the statement like it's been a good partnership. They've had seven years together. He won a championship, he benefited from the Lakers brand, they benefited from him coming there, bringing AD there, winning a championship. So like it's been a mutually beneficial partnership. I just think at this point if you're LeBron, it's hard to like, I think right now they're probably the fifth best team in the west. And that's not a spot that LeBron.

[Yovan Buha]

Let me guess, Houston, Denver, OKC, who's the other one?

[Unnamed Analyst]

Minnesota. Back to back conference finals. I mean they lost na, but that's a big, it is a big loss. But I mean I think that they just beat the Lakers in five and you could argue the Lakers are currently worse than they were.

[Yovan Buha]

I thought you're gonna say, I mean.

[Unnamed Analyst]

Golden State's in the mix, the Clippers in the mix. I really like the Brook Lopez signing for them. So the, the west is tough. And then you got Dallas just looming, so Dallas.

[Yovan Buha]

So of these you see on the screen, four teams have inquired about LeBron. Everybody says it's Dallas after the Luca trade. I cannot envision a world where they're doing another deal.

[Unnamed Analyst]

I'm part of the everybody because I put it out there. Like I heard over the last couple of weeks that if LeBron asked out, which is an if. Right. That Dallas would be among the teams that would be on his.

[Yovan Buha]

Let's just, just humor me. Who the hell are they getting for? For LeBron?

[Unnamed Analyst]

They're not a bit on the trade machine. They're not giving up.

[Yovan Buha]

Cooper flag.

[Unnamed Analyst]

No. So I, I think Cooper flag 80. Kyrie, Derek Lively, those four are off the table.

[Yovan Buha]

Can't get lively.

[Unnamed Analyst]

I don't think so.

[Yovan Buha]

I mean maybe. But Thompson.

[Unnamed Analyst]

Yeah, I think it's Gafford, P.J. washington, Klay Thompson, Max Christie. That those four work financially. I don't even want picks from you throw in a pick.

[Yovan Buha]

No, I don't want picks are gonna be good.

[Unnamed Analyst]

You could get the Laker Lakers could get their pick back from Luca trade potentially.

[Yovan Buha]

Yeah. Can I get super Max Christie back?

[Unnamed Analyst]

No, I, I, Yeah, I mean it's, it's. Yeah.

[Yovan Buha]

So Dallas is one, Cleveland is another and it just.

[Unnamed Analyst]

So they're a second apron team. So that's. It gets tricky.

[Yovan Buha]

Did you see the instagram today of LeBron in Ohio playing golf wearing a hat that says welcome home?

[Unnamed Analyst]

Yeah.

[Yovan Buha]

Okay, go ahead, give me your thoughts on it. Cuz he loves to play these games.

[Unnamed Analyst]

He does.

[Yovan Buha]

From the, the statement from Rich Paul to the Lakers seem to counter with their own 2027. And now LeBron countering with his welcome home. Par for the course. Aha. Golf analogy or is there something more here?

[Unnamed Analyst]

I think there's a little bit more here. Just because the finish line is in sight. Right. So again, going back to LeBron, like because LeBron has done this before, right? He, he's at various points of his career held his team to their feet, to the fire with the one plus ones and some of the cryptic things he'll do. And he went to the Cleveland playoff game and like, so there's been a little bit of smoke with that. Right. But it's different to actually ask out. Right. And demand a trade. He's never been traded. I think that's been a point of pride for him that he, you know, look at. Even though he's bounced around a little bit, it's always been him making the decision, him being the driving force behind it. He's never been traded, which not every star, especially stars that have been on multiple teams can say. So I think that's a point of pride. But again, the finish lines in sight, it's one year left, it's maybe two years, three years. If he really wanted to stretch it out and if he wants to get that fifth ring, you could argue there Are several teams that would make more sense.

[Yovan Buha]

Are you tossing, like, Atlanta, Detroit or.

[Unnamed Analyst]

So I think it has to be a big market. I don't see because people have floated Denver, which now it's a little trickier. Like, I think MPJ would have had to have been the salary and just traded for Cam Johnson. But that one, I'm just like. I don't see LeBron living in Denver and playing for Denver, I think. So that's why the four I mentioned on my show were Golden State, New York, Cleveland, Dallas. Cleveland's the one small market, but that's obviously home. And you got the homecoming narrative for the second time. But then Dallas, Golden State, New York are all big market teams.

[Yovan Buha]

Yeah. All right, let's go from LeBron to Luka Doncic. So I opened the show defending Luka. The disrespect is getting a little out of control. Have you heard the Avery Johnson sound?

[Unnamed Analyst]

No.

[Yovan Buha]

About. He was asked, who would you rather have Cooper Flag or Luka Doncic? I think we could play it for you. Here it is. Here's Avery Johnson. Man, give me Cooper flag. Really? Cooper Flag in this team? Yeah, give me Cooper Flag, man. You're talking about a team when they're healthy. Got three future hall of Famers with Kyrie Ad and Klay Thompson. So this is really exciting. The Mavericks, their future is bright, but they have a window when they're healthy of the next two to three years with this roster is currently constructed. Okay, listen, Avery Johnson is a smart guy. He probably knows more basketball than you and I combined.

[Unnamed Analyst]

Yeah.

[Yovan Buha]

This is just crazy. This is bat poop crazy.

[Unnamed Analyst]

Yes, correct. Correct.

[Yovan Buha]

Why are people waiting on Luka, like, one bad season. And by the way, hey, if he had rushed back from his calf like Nico Harrison wanted, would he be Tyrese Halliburton now? I don't know.

[Unnamed Analyst]

Yeah. I mean, maybe it's the jersey he's wearing now. I think that comes with some extra criticism sometimes. I mean, I do think the way, like, I think some of the stuff that that came out from the Dallas side has been taken as gospel. Right. With the conditioning and their concerns. And it almost was like, we cannot believe that this trade is real. So we have to validate anything that's coming from their side to even make it, like, plausible that they would consider trading Luka. And now, of course, Nico still gotten his fair share of jokes, and he's been roasted and, you know, will probably be roasted forever. But I think there has been, like, a tarnishing of Luka and his image. And just his status in the league because I think for a lot of people, he was like a top two or top three player pre Lakers trade. Now he's being talked about in like, top five, top seven, top ten. He's flipping.

[Yovan Buha]

Would you take SGA over Luca going forward right now?

[Unnamed Analyst]

I think you asked me this last.

[Yovan Buha]

Time I was on again, because he's now finals mvp.

[Unnamed Analyst]

I think I would.

[Colin Cowherd]

Oh, come on.

[Yovan Buha]

But.

[Unnamed Analyst]

But more so. It's more the defense. I think that, like, that's. I think that's the real knock on Luka is like, you have to build a particular lineup. And now we have the proof of concept with SGA of like. I. I think previously I had some concerns. Could SGA be the best player? We hadn't seen it yet. Like, that was one thing we had discussed of talking about him versus Harden. It was like, can he get over that hump? Can he get to the finals? Can he win a championship? He did it and he was awesome. And so I think for now, I think Shai deserves his props. Mvp. Finals mvp. I think both were deserved, but I think I'll say it's close. I think Luka's probably the third. Third or fourth best player. It's right there with Giannis.

[Yovan Buha]

So I was gonna. I was gonna ask you this, but now it probably hurts your chances. So your background is Eastern European, right? Because I follow, you know, in Serbian stuff. Right. What's Luca's background?

[Unnamed Analyst]

He's Slovenian, but they're his. They're close. Balkan region, former Yugoslavia. And then his dad has some Serbian roots.

[Yovan Buha]

When he's going back this summer, are you headed back there to maybe connect with Luka?

[Unnamed Analyst]

So he is actually going to be in Serbia in August. They're playing a friendly against Serbia and we're going to. We were actually talking about it at the end of the season. Luca and I, after the Lakers were eliminated, we were walking to.

[Yovan Buha]

Was that in a different language or.

[Unnamed Analyst]

No, we were talking in English. We have done a little talk in Serbia. I speak a little bit. I wish I spoke fluently. Gotta brush up on the walk into the car area. You know, doing the sidling. We were chatting and I was saying might be going this summer. And he was saying when he was gonna be there. So maybe it's TBD right now.

[Yovan Buha]

Well, it would be late August. Chances to say, of course, Luka over sga. Yeah, welcome you into.

[Unnamed Analyst]

No, I mean, I've spoken very highly of Luka. I, I, you know, I think he's. Again, I think Luka over Cooper flag. 10 out of 10 times obviously like we'll, we'll see with flag. Right. He could develop into that type of player but I think Luka is clearly the engine of you could win a title with him as your best player. Your number one option Cooper Flag. I think like maybe he's more of a number two but could be because he could do so many other things and he's like a defensive player of the year type defender. Like I don't know, more like a Kevin Garnett or something like that where um, you know, I don't know if he's the number one option but he can do so many other things that it makes up for it.

[Yovan Buha]

All right, last one. I thought the Lakers would be in the mix to get some not ring chasers but oh damn, I could play with Luka and LeBron and then I see like Tim Hardaway's going to the Nuggets. I mean that's got to hurt, right? Those guys could have been huge for. For the Lakers to get just shooters.

[Unnamed Analyst]

Yeah. So with that I would say right now there's just the hold up with the Ayton situation and what they do with their non taxpayer MLE. They have the biannual exception 5.1 million. So I think there are going to be some guys that Chris Paul I don't think he's probably going to Lakers. It seems more like the Clippers but.

[Yovan Buha]

Oh gosh, Chris, what the hell.

[Unnamed Analyst]

But like d' Anthony Melton is a name I like. Who a former.

[Yovan Buha]

Wasn't he hurt last year Trojan?

[Unnamed Analyst]

Yeah, he tore his ACL last year. So that's the reason why he's available but is a defensive energy guard. I think a good guard off the bench. Gary Payton II is still out there. Amir Coffey, Clipper benchwing. Who his athletic score. So like there's some names that I think the like you know Lakers could sign depending on what they have available but I think you'll see them get like right now it's just being held up by once they have the clarity with Ayton then they'll move forward.

[Yovan Buha]

Hot. Super hot take. Just hit me. Why the hell not? Celtics don't have Tatum next year. It would never happen. But what if there was a hey Jaylen Brown we let's get him off our books. We'll take LeBron for a year. He can do his victory lap with the Celtics lead us to I don't know what in the east and you guys can have Jaylen Brown because they're not gonna be able to pay Tatum and Brown 65 million each and build a team. That's pretty clear. Any shot the Celtics get involved for LeBron?

[Unnamed Analyst]

I think LeBron would rather retire and play for the Celtics.

[Yovan Buha]

Well said, yo.

[Unnamed Analyst]

And he's got the no trade clause, so he would block it.

[Yovan Buha]

He can Dix. All right. I had to fire it out. Why not? All right. Coming up next, wait until you see what Shohei Ohtani did last night for the Dodgers. Alex has the latest in her line. That's next. One more heard the herd streams 24 hours a day, seven days a week within the iHeartRadio app. Search herd to listen live or on demand whenever you'd like. Hi, this is Jay. I'm the producer of the Paulie and Tony Fusco show.

[Jason McIntyre]

Usually in these promos they ask you.

[Yovan Buha]

To listen to the show. Here to ask you please don't listen to this show.

[Jason McIntyre]

The hosts are two absolute morons who.

[Yovan Buha]

Have the dumbest takes on sports imaginable. Don't listen to this show so it can get canceled.

[Unnamed Analyst]

Whoa, whoa, whoa.

[Yovan Buha]

What the hell are you doing in our studio? Get him, Paulie. Ignore that fool.

[Unnamed Analyst]

Listen to the Paulie and Tony Fusco.

[Yovan Buha]

Show on the iHeartRadio app or wherever you get your podcast.

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[Jason McIntyre]

Hey everybody. You've heard me talk about Green River Whiskey, the official whiskey of the herd podcast. And if you know anything about me, I love a good metaphor. So the team at Green river challenged me to come up with a perfect metaphor to describe their incredible bourbon and rye whiskeys. And with the playoffs upon us, the answer is clear. Green River Whiskey is like a big playoff win by your favorite team, always sure to raise your spirits. So pair the thrills of this playoff season with Green River Whiskey. And with four core products in their starting lineup, there's something to suit any taste. To find Green river near you, head on over to greenriverwhisky.com here's the green River Whiskey Raise your spirits. A product of Green River Distilling Company, Owensboro, Kentucky. Alcohol by volume varies by product. Greenriverwhiskey.com, please drink responsibly. Hey, so we all make mistakes, but owning up to them is the right thing to do. So you know Degree Cool Rush deodorant, right? Well, last year they changed the formula and it did not go over well with their fans. So Degree's whole thing is it turns up the sweat and odor protection when you turn up the effort. And good thing it does because Cool Rush fans really turned up the effort to bring the original formula back. One guy even started an online petition and Degree listened. They admitted they effed up. They're bringing back the original Cool Rush scent. They're bringing it back and it's exactly how you remember it. Cool, crisp and fresh. It's back in Walmart, Target and other stores now for under $4. There's a reason it's been the number one men's antiperspirant for the last decade. It's the same reason why people were not happy when it changed. So if you've never tried it, it might be a good time to see what the fuss. Head to your local Walmart target and try the OG degree. Cool rush for yourself.

[Yovan Buha]

Welcome back. Great stuff from Yovan Buha on the Lakers. I know you guys are a little fed up a lot of Lakers content today but they're in the news. What do you want me to do? Let's go to Alex Curry with the news. No no no, turn on the news. This is the herd line news.

[Colin Cowherd]

J Mac I love our head NBA coach breaking news streak that we have going. It's now three for three because several reports the Knicks are offering Mike Brown their vacant head coaching position. Brown most recently coached the Sacramento Kings and has been named coach of the year twice. Brown also won championships as an assistant coach in Golden State and San Antonio. I mean he has quite the impressive resume. Do you like this fit for the Knicks? Is this your team? Yeah, I mean this first time they were in the Eastern conference finals in 25 years. This was a record setting year for the Knicks. Shocked everybody what they did but now makes more sense as more is coming out I guess. But is this the right fit?

[Yovan Buha]

In a word? Yeah, I like it. You know you never want to go too overboard Alex but I walked into the morning meeting this morning even before the Mike Brown's out I was like, you know I had a good night's sleep last night. Not to channel cowherd or anything but I woke up and I'm feeling the Knicks going to the finals next year. I like a couple small moves they made fortify their bench. I like the bright Mike Brown move. Good coach. He won with LeBron. He been in the Golden State system. I thought he they showed well in Sacramento where nobody can win. Michael Malone couldn't win in Sacramento. Yeah and I just, I like Mike Brown a lot. I think this is really good news for the Knicks. I'm calling it. The Knicks will be the NBA finals for the east next season.

[Colin Cowherd]

Whoa.

[Yovan Buha]

I don't even know who their competition is.

[Colin Cowherd]

Orlando, Cleveland, Let me see.

[Yovan Buha]

Believe land.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, I mean Atlanta Cavs, I mean Celtics not going to be the same team. Pacer is not going to be the same team. Bucks. We have no idea what to expect. So yeah I think it's Knicks and Cavs definitely a top top two teams in the east.

[Yovan Buha]

I mean the Bucks to me are a play in team. I don't even think they're good. Detroit's.

[Colin Cowherd]

It's going to depend if Giannis is there. Yeah, that, like, we can't really make any kind of prediction until you know who's going to be on that roster. They can have their star player.

[Yovan Buha]

I mean, they're going to be Health. Paul George, Embiid, Maxi. I like their pick. They got a lot of stuff. Sixers are sleepy. Maybe four or five.

[Colin Cowherd]

They're gonna go from, what, 13th in the east up to four, five, six.

[Yovan Buha]

Yeah, I think that's reasonable.

[Colin Cowherd]

That's a good jump.

[Yovan Buha]

So the. The Knicks went to the conference finals, lost in. I think six Pacers aren't going to be as good next year. Lost two starters. Knicks staying put. Add a good coach and add two reliable bench players. Like, they're gonna be really. You guys can remember it was year one with adding bridges and towns.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah.

[Yovan Buha]

Like, can we just let things bake?

[Colin Cowherd]

Is it the right fit? That. That it's the right personality fit? Is it the right chemistry fit? We've seen this happen with a lot of top players and coaches. Like, it really can turn. Turn a franchise around. Is. Is this.

[Yovan Buha]

Brunson loved Tibs. They had a deep history dating back to, like, his childhood. So that is probably a sting there. But, you know Brown, you got to.

[Colin Cowherd]

Win the locker room. He's a winner. Yeah, but he's. He's a winning coach.

[Yovan Buha]

It's good.

[Colin Cowherd]

And that's. That's a. I think, the first big step.

[Yovan Buha]

Yeah.

[Colin Cowherd]

There. Okay, let's move to the NFL. Wide receiver Chris Godwin turned down. Turned some heads when he decided to stay in Tampa and free agency after the Patriots reportedly offered him more money. Now, Baker Mayfield wasn't surprised, saying the Bucks have a great culture full of guys who don't need the spotlight. Mayfield went on to add that the Bucks are a bunch of good guys who just want to win. Now, we've seen almost all of the Bucks top guys take less money to stay and try to win another Super Bowl, Something that Tom Brady kind of did when he came in and set the culture there very similar to what he did in New England, because Tom always took less money in order to build the roster around him and be able to go out and. And win Super Bowls. If you think about it, since Brady left, New England kind of went downhill. The Bucks have controlled the NFC South. They've won the NFC south the last four years. And it's always a question you ask these athletes, like, do you want the bag or do you want the ring? And there's no wrong answer here because as an athlete, you have a very small window to make your money, but you usually can't have both. So this Bucs franchise and what we're hearing from all their top guys is they want to try to go. They, they want to try to go for the chips opposed to the bag. I don't see.

[Yovan Buha]

So that's, that's a good discussion. The NFL shelf life. You know, this NFL stands not for long. I think you absolutely have to get the bag in the NFL.

[Colin Cowherd]

There's no, there's no wrong answer. There is no wrong answer for an athlete here. Okay. Because you don't know your career could be three years, could be 10 years. It really only quarterbacks and top, top tier players that are above that 10 year mark.

[Yovan Buha]

Yeah. Most positions you get early 30s in the NFL and they're done.

[Colin Cowherd]

Probably over body is done.

[Yovan Buha]

The NBA less so. I think you have a little longer Runway. So I would say, I mean, do rings really matter that much?

[Colin Cowherd]

Legacy. Yes.

[Yovan Buha]

We don't have a lot of legacy truck, Alex, in the NFL, do we?

[Colin Cowherd]

But again, what's important to you. This is, this is, this is a personal question to an athlete.

[Yovan Buha]

Give me generational what? End of story. Like what?

[Colin Cowherd]

Okay, then there you go. You're gonna take the bag.

[Yovan Buha]

Yeah.

[Colin Cowherd]

That's where you would go. I would want to go championship.

[Yovan Buha]

Well, at what age? At 25. Give me the bag. At 35. Give me the chip.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, but if you, if you take the bag at 25, that's going to affect your career because you're not going to be on a team that's probably able to compete for the championship. So then it's just, it's term view, Alex. Not really.

[Yovan Buha]

Like, okay, do you think, let me think of a guy like, well, not Dan. Like Mark Clayton, who played wide receiver for Dan Marino on the Dolphins way back. Do you think he's like ever just around and somebody's like, oh, Mark, what's up, man? You never won that Super Bowl. Like he's not, he's thinking about like, oh, yeah, I got generational wealth, my family set. I could travel anywhere I want.

[Colin Cowherd]

If you are like a hardcore athlete.

[Yovan Buha]

Yes.

[Colin Cowherd]

You're thinking about that constantly. Yeah. Never won that chip. That was the one ding on my career. Like, that's why you play the game. That's why everybody. That's what you dream about as a kid. Whatever sport you're going into is hoisting that trophy, getting that championship ring. That should be your number one Goal.

[Yovan Buha]

Always.

[Colin Cowherd]

If you're playing a sport and then obviously you're going to make millions of dollars, you're sacrificing your body and your life and everything else, but it's okay that again, it's. It's so different for every athlete. And there is no wrong answer. Yeah. Because this is your life and your career.

[Yovan Buha]

Well, what do you want?

[Colin Cowherd]

You know, you're taking the bag.

[Yovan Buha]

Like, the bag. And then I set my family up for generations. Okay. But I would love a championship later in my career. I know this is small potatoes and don't laugh.

[Colin Cowherd]

I tried to have your cake and eat it, too.

[Yovan Buha]

I want to.

[Colin Cowherd]

You don't usually get that. And you look at the goat. Look at Tom Brady. He always took less money, so. Always took less money.

[Yovan Buha]

Well, he is. What? Remember, Gisele was making 500 million or whatever.

[Colin Cowherd]

It helps. She made more than him.

[Yovan Buha]

So in. In these men's leagues, I play in. You know, Matt Leinert was on my team as fast as we won the championship. So we're a banner in the gym, so everybody knows it's us. But then you play in the tougher league, and I'm like, I don't need to play minutes, guys. I just want the championship. But in the 35 and up league, I'm jacking, you know, like, I'm shooting a lot. So, like, I want my cake and I want to eat it, too. What's wrong with that?

[Colin Cowherd]

There's not. But, like, in. In this scenario, you're most likely not going to get both because you can't build around when you have so many big contracts.

[Yovan Buha]

And if you're Tampa Bay, it's going to be very tough. Like. No.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah.

[Yovan Buha]

Coming. They're. They're at best fifth in the nfc maybe.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah.

[Yovan Buha]

Eagles. Yeah. Better. I think Niners are clearly better. Lions. Oh, yeah. Washington. Yeah. Like the packers, probably Rams. It's gonna be tough. Rams. So, like, it's gonna be very tough.

[Colin Cowherd]

It's gonna be really tough. But, I mean, that's the attitude you have to take if you want to compete. You gotta keep all of your top guys and they're like, in an easier division. So you're. You're able to take. You're able to take the. The NFC South.

[Yovan Buha]

Yeah.

[Colin Cowherd]

All right, let's move to baseball. Wrap things up with baseball. Another day, another Ohtani home run. Shohei leads the National League with 30 home runs. This is Ohtani's third straight season of hitting at least 30 bombs before the All Star game, tying Ken Griffey Jr. For third most all time and tied Cody Bellinger for most home runs before the all star break in Dodgers history that 2019 season. Bellinger went on to win the NL MVP. What I love right now is that we're seeing the two reigning MVPs, Aaron Judge and S.H. otani tied right now with 30 home runs. Like they are both just going off. Still not as much as the big dumper. Cal Raleigh, who is the catcher in Seattle who is leading all in baseball in home runs which is absolutely phenomenal. But Ohtani, I try to remind people just appreciate greatness when it's right in front of your face. This kid is a unicorn and a gift for the game of baseball. We are never going to see a player like this again. He has already cemented his name in in baseball in these record books. And this one, this is a very I think unbreakable record that Ohtani is setting right now. He has the most home runs in a season with multiple pitching starts. No one's ever going to be able to break that record.

[Yovan Buha]

You don't think a pitcher is going to hit 46 home runs?

[Colin Cowherd]

No, absolutely. I don't think we're going to see another two way power hitter pitcher.

[Yovan Buha]

I don't know about that.

[Colin Cowherd]

Like we're seeing Ohtani what see an ace on the mound and a power hitter. You think we're going to see another.

[Yovan Buha]

46 dude, there's going to be other.

[Colin Cowherd]

Be able to beat this record.

[Yovan Buha]

I think young kids are going to see this and be like I can.

[Colin Cowherd]

Both motivate but it's different. It's Otani, it's has a different, he had a different upbringing and mentality. He went to like a baseball boarding school. Baseball was his life and how, how strict he is with his training and his time management. Like before he started his family like it was all, all baseball. That's all he did. He would eat, sleep, breathe baseball. Even out on the road you wouldn't hear him being out with the other guys. He'd just be in his room, watch a tape maybe like he literally he is. Baseball is life.

[Yovan Buha]

If you ask my wife, she would say Jake, that's my, my husband for sports. Basically that's what I was, you know in my 20s I was like I need to build this website, do all this. Anyways, we have sound Alex of Otani's home run last night. Here we go. AM 570. Ohtani awaits the 32 pitch from Shane Smith. Here it comes. He swings it to high drive to right field. Way back it goes and this ball is gone. A home run. Shohei Ohtani with a blast, his 30th of the season.

[Colin Cowherd]

Decent 116 exit filo velocity. Like, he just makes it look so easy and he has so much fun and he has so much respect for the game. He's one of the only batters that goes up, says hi to the umpires every time.

[Yovan Buha]

I love that.

[Colin Cowherd]

When the benches were clearing, he got hit by the pitch. When they're playing the Padres, he's the one that went over and like calmed the dugout down. Both dugouts, like, guys stop. This is a part of the game. Like, it's just, he's so good for the game and the face of baseball right now. I just, it's so fun to watch.

[Yovan Buha]

All right, Alex with the news.

[Unnamed Analyst]

Well, that's the news and thanks for.

[Yovan Buha]

Stopping by the Herd lie news. All right, so coming up next, I got a loyalty rant to go on and I'm telling you guys, like, listen, these new NBA rules, they are not good. And loyalty, it's out the window. That's next year on the Herd. Be sure to catch live editions of the Herd, weekdays at noon Eastern, 9am.

[Unnamed Advertiser]

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[Alex Curry]

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[Jason McIntyre]

Hey everybody. You've heard me talk about Green River Whiskey, the official whiskey of the herd podcast. And if you know anything about me, I love a good metaphor. So the team at Green river challenged me to come up with a perfect metaphor to describe their incredible bourbon and rye whiskeys. And with the playoffs upon us, the answer is clear. Green River Whiskey is like a big playoff win by your favorite team, always sure to raise your spirits. So pair the thrills of this playoff season with Green River Whiskey. And with four core products in their starting lineup, there's something to suit any taste. To find Green river near you, head on over to greenriverwhisky.com here's the green River Whiskey Raise your spirits. A product of Green River Distilling Company, Owensboro, Kentucky. Alcohol by volume varies by product. Greenriverwhiskey.com Please drink responsibly. Hey, so we all make mistakes, but owning up to them is the right thing to do. So you know Degree Cool Rush deodorant, right? Well, last year they changed the formula and it did not go over well with their fans. So Degree's whole thing is it turns up the sweat and odor protection when you turn up the effort. And good thing it does, because Cool Rush fans really turned up the effort to bring the original formula back. One guy even started an online petition and Degree listened, admitted they effed up. They're bringing back the original Cool Rush scent. They're bringing it back and it's exactly how you remember it. Cool, crisp and fresh. It's back in Walmart, Target and other stores now for under $4. There's a reason it's been the number one men's antiperspirant for the last decade. It's the same reason why people were not happy when it changed. So if you've never tried it, it might be a good time to see what the fuss is about. Head to your local Walmart target and try the OG degree. Cool rush for yourself.

[Colin Cowherd]

Alex Pillot looks to continue his legendary season and hold off award new Gordon Kirkwood and of the pack as the IndyCar Series roars into mid Ohio Sunday at 1 Eastern on Fox.

[Yovan Buha]

All right, let me talk about this loyalty thing I just teased. There's a it's weird we don't really have this in the NFL, but it's a thing in the NBA. Fans of that team really want guys to stay and I totally get that right? Owners, when they find good players, they should do everything in their power to keep them. So yesterday something weird happened with Miles Turner of the Pacers out of the blue. And I mean just totally nobody saw this coming. He leaves the Pacers for the Milwaukee Bucks and all these Pacers fans are scratching their heads. What? Wait, what? Every all signs during the playoff run pointed to him staying. You guys reminder remembered. Like a month ago early in the playoffs I said man, Miles Turner would be a great fit with the Lakers if they could get him on the cheap. Oh, that would be such a heist. And of course the playoffs go on and Turner's very, very good. And there's like, yeah, there's no way they're going to get him. He's staying in Indy. The Pacers during the NBA Finals even made a move telegraphing they want to keep Turner. They traded their 2025 first round pick. They don't want it to pay somebody so they got a 26 first. So they're paying Turner. And then Tyrese Halliburton gets hurt in Game 7. And Turner was, he was okay in the Finals. He wasn't great. He averaged like 10 and four and it's not great when you're six foot ten center, seven foot, whatever you want to call him. He's averaging four rebounds a game. That's like less than Nismith ob Toppin. Like it wasn't great. But it's tough to find guys like that who can stretch the floor and hit threes, be a rim protector. I know he's a no time all star, but all signs pointed to the Pacers keeping him. And now reports are coming out that the Pacers cheap owner did not want to go into the luxury tax because they don't think they can win a championship next year without Halliburton. And according to reports, the Pacers only offered him three years $20 million. I'm sorry, 60 million, which is 20 mil a year. So the Pacers, to keep a guy who they've had for 10 years, the longest tenured Pacer on the roster, a guy who dealt with trade rumors for the last five years, they offered him three for 60 mil. 20 mil a year. The buck said, whoa, we can offer four. An extra year for 107. So that's like $26 million a year. Of course he's going to take more money. Of course. And. And I just. This whole idea of loyalty. Hey, Turner, you should have stayed with us. No, the Pacers owner cheaped out. Now, there are reports he hasn't been in the luxury tax in over 20 years. He don't want to cut that check. Except things have changed. You went to the conference finals, and now you're in the NBA Finals in game seven. And you lose your star until you lose the game, and all of a sudden you get cheap. All these new rules for the second apron and the punitive taxes, that's to prevent the big markets and the super teams from dominating the league. Isn't it not supposed to prevent small market teams like the Pacers from keeping their guy? Or the Memphis Grizzlies, who pretty quickly realized, shucks, we can't do this with jj, Triple J, Bain and JA we got to get off Bain. We don't want to have to pay the luxury tax. So what all these owners wanted is now starting to hurt them. And you can't do this on the cheaper. You got no loyalty. He's just saying, hey, Miles. Sorry, man. Halliburton got hurt. We can't offer you the big bag anymore. What? I'm stunned, folks. Pacers fans should be outraged. So should Pacers players. Coming up next, Luca USA Soccer. Big weekend.

[Jason McIntyre]

Okay. Have you heard about this? Last year, Degree changed the formula for their Cool Rush deodorant, and their fans rebelled and wanted the old scent back. And Degree listens. That doesn't happen often. They admitted they effed up and they're bringing back the original Cool Rush scent. They're bringing it back, and it's exactly how you remember it. Cool, crisp and fresh. There's a reason it's the number one men's antiperspirant. And it's back in Walmart, Target and other stores now for under four bucks. So try and see what the fuss is about. Head to your local Walmart or Target to try the OG Degree Cool Rush for yourself.

[Unnamed Advertiser]

On the latest episode of Next Question with me, Katie Couric. I sat down with Jasmine Crockett, Democratic representative of Texas.

[Yovan Buha]

She's holding down the fork for her party in one of the most conservative.

[Unnamed Advertiser]

States in the union.

[Colin Cowherd]

I think that ultimately who will become the Democratic nominee for president will be someone that has been out there and has shown that they won't allow themselves to be punched and just say thank you like they will punch back.

[Unnamed Advertiser]

Listen to Next Question with me, Katie Couric on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast.

[Unnamed Analyst]

I know a lot of cops. They get asked all the time, have.

[Yovan Buha]

You ever had to shoot your gun?

[Unnamed Analyst]

Sometimes the answer is yes.

[Yovan Buha]

But there's a company dedicated to a future where the answer will always be no. This is Absolute Season one, Taser Incorporated.

[Alex Curry]

I get right back there and it's bad.

[Unnamed Analyst]

Listen to Absolute Season 1, Taser Incorporated on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Colin Cowherd]

Welcome to Pretty Private with ebony, the podcast where silence is broken and stories are set free. I'm Ebony, and every Tuesday I'll be sharing all new anonymous stories that would challenge your perceptions and give you new insight on the people around you. Every Tuesday, make sure you listen to Pretty Private from the Black Effect Podcast Network. Tune in on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. This is an iHeart podcast.