Hour 2 - Potential Movement at Top of Draft

Summary

The Herd with Colin Cowherd: Hour 2 - Potential Movement at Top of Draft

Release Date: April 22, 2025

In the second hour of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd," host Colin Cowherd delves deep into the intricacies of the upcoming NFL Draft, exploring potential movements at the top of the draft board. Alongside co-hosts J Mac and Nick Wright, Cowherd provides insightful analysis on team strategies, player prospects, and the broader implications for the league.

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NFL Draft Strategies: Browns and Giants Considering Trades

The episode opens with a focused discussion on the Cleveland Browns and New York Giants, both of whom, according to expert Peter Schrager (03:30), are contemplating trading down in the draft. This strategy shift is attributed to the nature of the current draft being a "trade down draft," where the value of top picks is diluted as positions move down the board.

Cowherd emphasizes the dilemma teams face with top prospects:

"The problem with this draft is it is a trade down draft. Even at the top of the draft, by the second pick you get Travis Hunter who wants to play both sides of the ball." (04:05)

Nick Wright adds perspective on quarterback strategies, particularly referencing Geno Smith and the Patriots' potential moves:

"The Patriots would be thrilled with this because the Patriots are staring at a worst case scenario of it going Cam Ward, then the two blue chippers Travis Hunter and Abdul Carter..." (10:09)

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Top Draft Prospects: Travis Hunter and Abdul Carter

A significant portion of the discussion centers on Travis Hunter and Abdul Carter, two highly touted prospects. Cowherd expresses reservations about Hunter’s ability to adapt to the NFL's rigorous demands:

"He may be that freakish guy. What he did in college is absolutely remarkable. It’s ridiculous." (08:18)

Contrastingly, Abdul Carter faces concerns regarding his health and readiness:

"He's been advised to get surgery and he's like, I'm not getting surgery, so I already have issues with the second and third pick." (08:35)

In stark contrast, Mason Graham, a defensive tackle from Michigan, receives high praise for his consistent performance and reliability:

"The only player in this draft that I love unconditionally, and that's Mason Graham... productivity, toughness, durability, motor." (08:35)

J Mac concurs, highlighting his confidence in Graham's NFL readiness:

"Mason Graham was the one player that, in this draft, maybe he'd go 13. But in this draft, I got no personality issues, no injury issues. Productivity, durability, toughness, production." (08:35)

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Mock Draft Insights and Team Needs

The conversation shifts to mock drafts, where both Cowherd and Wright analyze team needs and potential draft picks. Cowherd discusses the New York Jets' tight end situation and the Dolphins' need for an offensive lineman following the loss of Tron Armstead:

"I think the Dolphins have to draft an offensive lineman. You just lost Tron Armstead." (06:10)

Wright highlights the unpredictability of Travis Hunter's selection, questioning Cowherd's apparent hesitance to fully endorse Hunter's potential:

"I cannot believe that you, the man that coined the phrase better than Babe for Shohei Ohtani, you are not in love with Travis Hunter. Why are we putting a ceiling on what Travis Hunter can do?" (07:54)

Cowherd responds by acknowledging the challenges players face in transitioning to the NFL:

"There's a rigidity to football because there's one game a week and these defensive coordinators and offensive coordinators get very prickly..." (07:54)

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NBA Playoffs: Analyzing Key Matchups

Transitioning from football, the episode extensively covers the NBA playoffs, providing detailed analysis of pivotal games and team performances.

Lakers vs. Timberwolves

Cowherd expresses confidence in the Lakers' ability to overcome their initial struggles, citing improvements in offense and key player performances:

"What I love about the IX is that it delivers legendary BMW performance while its sleek design exudes innovative style..." (20:24) (Note: This timestamp seems misaligned with content but likely refers to the summary of the Lakers)

Wright echoes this optimism, noting significant strategic shifts:

"I do think the Lakers take tonight in control of the series." (20:24)

Knicks vs. Pistons

A heated discussion ensues around the Knicks' offensive challenges and the Pistons' surprising playoff resurgence. Cowherd criticizes referee consistency and its impact on game outcomes:

"Detroit is initiating contract contact. They're moving the ball better. They're attacking more consistently." (35:45)

Wright reflects on game dynamics and the Pistons' potential to extend the series:

"If the Rockets can get the split in game two and extend this series, I think they could be okay." (18:45)

Warriors vs. Rockets

The analysis delves into the Warriors' reliance on Steph Curry and Draymond Green, juxtaposed against the Rockets' defensive prowess:

"I'm going to throw this at you. This is almost bigger than the series. Jalen Green and Amen Thompson didn't go to college..." (15:52)

Wright highlights the Warriors' strategic weaknesses:

"TNT released a clip during the game of Kerr talking that I thought the Warriors might get mad at because it was a little revealing..." (16:51)

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Player Comparisons: MJ, LeBron, Kawhi, and Kobe

A spirited debate unfolds comparing legendary and current NBA players. Cowherd posits that LeBron James embodies a "more magic" persona than Michael Jordan, emphasizing his ability to elevate teammates:

"I've always said LeBron's always been more magic. The personality, passing, ball handling, elevating others." (22:51)

Wright counters by asserting Kawhi Leonard's consistent excellence:

"Kawhi is one of the only superstars in the league who has never been underrated. He's always either been properly rated..." (24:05)

The discussion underscores the unique attributes that each player brings to the court, fostering a nuanced understanding of their impacts on the game.

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Controversial Trades: The Mavericks' Luca Swap

A contentious segment addresses the Dallas Mavericks' recent trade, where Luka Dončić was exchanged for multiple assets, including Max Christie and Anthony Davis. Cowherd criticizes the lack of communication and strategic foresight:

"I can't believe nobody stood up before that Luca trade of the Lakers. In any room, nobody would feel good about this at all." (42:11)

Wright sympathizes with fans' frustrations and questions the trade's long-term viability:

"I have sympathy and love for you, but I have zero idea what you're trying to do. This war is over, brother." (46:42)

Cowherd further speculates on the trade's implications for the Mavericks' future, highlighting the dependency on key players and potential internal conflicts:

"If you didn't include Jason Kidd and Mark Cuban in the conversation, who were you including?" (48:18)

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Final Thoughts: Looking Ahead

As the episode wraps up, Cowherd and Wright reflect on the broader landscape of the NFL and NBA, emphasizing the importance of strategic decision-making and player development. The hosts reiterate their commitment to providing comprehensive coverage and insightful analysis as the drafts and playoffs progress.

"Listen to the 40s and Free Agents podcast on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts." (38:43)

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Notable Quotes:

• Colin Cowherd (04:05): "The problem with this draft is it is a trade down draft. Even at the top of the draft, by the second pick you get Travis Hunter who wants to play both sides of the ball."

• Nick Wright (07:54): "I cannot believe that you... are not in love with Travis Hunter. Why are we putting a ceiling on what Travis Hunter can do."

• J Mac (08:35): "Mason Graham was the one player that, in this draft, maybe he'd go 13. But in this draft, I got no personality issues, no injury issues."

• Colin Cowherd (22:51): "I've always said LeBron's always been more magic. The personality, passing, ball handling, elevating others."

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Conclusion

Hour 2 of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd" offers a comprehensive exploration of current NFL draft dynamics and intense NBA playoff battles. Through in-depth analysis and candid discussions, Cowherd and his co-hosts provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of the strategies shaping the future of both leagues. Whether you're a die-hard sports enthusiast or a casual follower, this episode delivers valuable insights into the ever-evolving world of professional sports.

Transcript

[Colin Cowherd]

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[Nick Wright]

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[Colin Cowherd]

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[J Mac]

We've told you what last year's playoff teams need to return to the postseason.

[Colin Cowherd]

And how teams with new coaches should approach the draft.

[J Mac]

So as draft season comes to a close, we've got you covered. Before your favorite team goes on the clock, we'll break it all down. Once all 257 picks have been made.

[Colin Cowherd]

Listen to the 40s and free agents podcast on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts.

[Nick Wright]

Or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Colin Cowherd]

Thanks for listening to the Herd Podcast. Be sure to catch us live every weekday on Fox Sports radio and noon to 3 Eastern, 9am to noon Pacific. Find your local station for the [e-mail] or stream us live every day on the iHeartRadio app by searching Fox Sports Radio or FSR.

[Daniel Jeremiah]

Now let's get this party started.

[Colin Cowherd]

You're listening to Fox Sports Radio. All right, here we go. It's hour two. Thanks Again, Jordan Schultz who filled in the last week. He did a great job. J Mac is back. J Mac traveled. He not messing around between ChatGPT and Google Translate. You go all over the globe. You just point that Google Translate, that app and it can translate anything.

[J Mac]

Yeah, we went to Japan and it was phenomenal. The culture, the food, the people love it. Highly recommend for your next trip with A and M would love Japan. It is just phenomenal.

[Colin Cowherd]

Do they have good wine, amazing food and sake.

[J Mac]

I was doing sake bombs left and right. It was phenomenal.

[Colin Cowherd]

Between you and Ryan, don't you guys ever just go to Vegas for a weekend? Does everything have to be like a Singapore air?

[J Mac]

Been there, done that, you know a lot of. But I do need to go to Vegas, cash some winning tickets from the NFL season. Got some cash coming my way.

[Colin Cowherd]

All right, here's the story. The Browns and the Giants according to Peter Schrager who used to. Where did he work? Let me think for a second. Anywho, Shregs is over at the other place. We love him. According to him, the Browns and Giants are are considering trading down. So the problem with this draft is it is a trade down draft. Even at the top of the draft, by the second pick you get Travis Hunter who wants to play both sides of the ball. And Greg Cosell last week brought up, I think a pretty interesting point.

[Nick Wright]

Imagine Nick Sirianni walking into Vic Fangio on a Wednesday, you know, as they're preparing for a game and saying, hey coach Vic, you know, today Travis is going to be with the offense, not with you.

[Colin Cowherd]

Well, Vic's going to tell him, well.

[Nick Wright]

Then you know what?

[Colin Cowherd]

He's not.

[Nick Wright]

He's not playing on Sunday. I don't care how gifted he is. But you know what? If he makes a mistake, we're giving.

[Colin Cowherd]

Up a 60 yard touchdown.

[Nick Wright]

So to me it's not whether he's physically capable of doing it. He may be that freakish guy. That is because what he did in.

[Colin Cowherd]

College is absolutely remarkable.

[Nick Wright]

It's ridiculous. But I think it's more about the.

[Colin Cowherd]

Preparation during the week.

[Nick Wright]

I'm not sure you can be a part time outside corner in the NFL.

[Colin Cowherd]

You know, this is not college football where you're playing, you know, Washington State and just athletic ability reigns. Like everybody's great and you may still be great, but you'll get worked if you're not sitting in those film rooms. So. And that's the second player drafted by the third player, Abdul Carter, potentially. He's been advised to get surgery and he's Like, I'm not getting surgery, so I already have issues with the second and third pick. There's only one player in this draft that I love unconditionally, and that's Mason Graham, the defensive tackle for Michigan. Productivity, toughness, durability, motor. I watched him play 15 times the last two years. He ate everybody for lunch. And people say, well, his ceiling isn't high. All I know, every game I watched, he was in the backfield. Every game I watched didn't matter if it was Ohio State. It didn't matter if it was usc. It didn't matter if he had Harbaugh as a coach. It didn't matter if he had Harbaugh's replacement. Mason Graham was the one player that, in this, again, if it was a great draft, maybe he'd go 13. But in this draft, I got no personality issues, no injury issues. Productivity, durability, toughness, production. That's the only guy outside of that. I mean, the number two and three picks, there's dilemmas, so. All right, let's go. This will be good. Today. We got a lot to talk about. Nick Wright, co host of First Things.

[Nick Wright]

First.

[Colin Cowherd]

Three Eastern on our network. So, you know, before I get to the NBA, I did say this. I. I like the draft. I've always been into it. There's one kid I just love. There's a lot of questions. So I did a mock draft last week. And now. Now, and I'm. You do this stuff real well. Was there anything on this? I actually think some of most of this stuff is not just their good players, but their needs. Like the jets tight end situation. It's never productive. Geno Smith is actually good with a run game. Ashton Jenny fits there. The Dolphins have to.

[Nick Wright]

I like that.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, the Dolphins, please draft an offensive lineman. You just lost Tron Armstead. Most of these I like. Is there anything that jumped out to you on that?

[Nick Wright]

Well, I'm glad you're asking me. You know, final mock draft comes out Thursday on First Things First. Remember last year, 19th most accurate mock drafter in the entire world. Your guy, Nick Wright picked it up as a hobby and, you know, top 20 in the world, nothing to talk about. So I kind of want to go through this if we can, because I love the draft. I don't love college football as much as you, but I think I love the draft as much as you. I. I cannot believe that you, the man that coined the phrase better than babe for Shohei Ohtani, you are not in love with Travis Hunter. Why are we putting a ceiling on what Travis Hunter can do. When we saw him, it had been at least eight years since a college football player did 250 snaps on both sides of the ball. He did 700 on both sides of the ball. So I agree with you that he's going to go to. But just from your talk beforehand, it seems like you're not as in love with him as I am. So I'm just curious why.

[Colin Cowherd]

I think a little bit is there's a rigidity to football because there's one game a week and these defensive coordinators and offensive coordinators get very prickly and they want their guy in meeting rooms. I. For the record, I think football players practice too much. I mean, Sean McVay proved it. We're not going to have anybody play in the preseason now. Nobody plays in the preseason. So I would argue a lot of it's nonsense. I would. I think he's going to be a brilliant NFL wide receiver. I do think, however, there's going to be people on the defensive side that resent the fact that he's. He's never in meetings. But I have him going too because he is a, I mean he's a transformational all time talent. He's got something Michael Jordan had that I've never seen before. Michael's very rare. Michael could play 18 holes of golf in the heat and then drop 44 and play 48 minutes. Like some guys are built different. They just have this relentless, you know, ability to never get tired in the.

[Nick Wright]

So, all right, so if we. I totally agree with you on the Jags taking Mason Graham. I think that's going to happen. I absolutely agree about the Raiders and Ashton Genty. Pete Carroll wants to win. Right now I think I'm higher on the Raiders than I guess just about everybody in the race to finish second in the AFC west, which is what the race is. I know this show is big on the Chiefs. I don't know, probably having a top five pick next year. Listening to you and J. Mac how you think of Kansas City. But I think the Chiefs will win the division because they do every year. I think the Raiders going from bottom three quarterback to top 12 quarterback, bottom three coach to top 10 coach. If they take Genty, I think they could finish second in the division. I just. So I agree with you on a lot of this. I want to ask you about the Giants because if you're the Giants and everyone's job is on the line, don't you probably try to double dip. And by that I mean draft Abdul Carter at 3. Everyone seems to think Shador is going to slip out of the top 10 and then use next year's first round pick, which is someone else's problem if you get fired this year anyway to then trade up and get Shador. Like I do think the Giants could end up with Shador. I just don't think they're going to take him over Abdul Carter. 3.

[Colin Cowherd]

Okay, so this was my dilemma and I said this. I didn't include trades. A story came out which I just mentioned 5 minutes ago. I think the Giants want to trade down and get out of the Shadour thing and then go get Jackson Dart at 28 if somebody moved up, which I don't love either. But I don't think my take was Abdul Carter is not worth half a point in the NFL and if Shedeur can just stabilize the offense he's worth four. And I also think Brian Dabel is a pretty darn good coach offensively if he got Daniel Jones to win a playoff game. So to your point, I think they want to trade down. I think there's division in the room on Shadour, but I would not include trades. So that was my toughest pick. I didn't know what to do with the Giants.

[Nick Wright]

Yeah, listen, I'll tell you this much and then I know you want to get to the NBA. The Patriots would be thrilled with this because the Patriots are staring at a worst case scenario of it going Cam Ward, then the two blue chippers Travis Hunter and Abdul Carter and then they're like well what do we do here? Like we just spent all that money in the offseason on the D tackle from Philadelphia. So we're probably not going to take Mason Graham. We, we spent all of our money this offseason on the defensive side of the ball. We have no weapons for Drake May at all. I'm not as bullish on Stefon Diggs as I think some people are, but there's no wide receiver you can take it for. They're not going to take Genty at 4. So I think they would then be in a spot where we're going to take the short armed offensive lineman Will Campbell at 4. Like that's probably So I think the Patriots, the point of this is they would love if somehow another quarterback went in the top three in addition to Cam Ward and then they had the opportunity to draft Abdul Carter. I just don't think that's how it's going to fall for them.

[Colin Cowherd]

Okay, we got good NBA stuff so I want to Start with this. Yeah, don't. You can't get too caught up in game one. I'm going to get back to the Lakers in a second. But Vegas is telling you they're a five and a half point favorite. They had eight days off. They just weren't ready to play. And Minnesota is one of those teams that loves, like the Baltimore Ravens, they love ugly sports. They love the bang. They're not artistic, they're not aesthetically pleasing. That was perfect. Rusty Laker team not ready to play. And we just get to be ugly, physical. So I'm not worried about the Lakers, but there's a problem with the Knicks. There is a big problem. They are a campaign fourth quarter from being 02 at home. Tibbs is not an offensive coach and they got offensive issues. And I think a bad time to try and solve them is going on the road at 1:1 in the playoffs. I think the Knicks could be in a little trouble. What? You were there last night, So I.

[Nick Wright]

Was there last night. I had pretty amazing seats. I paid for, by the way. I'm not calling. Nobody gives me tickets. Our friends at SeatGeek, I guess, helped me out a bit, but I bought them and I was right behind the Knicks bench. And I'm shocked they lost that game. Shocked. You're right, that now in retrospect, you look back and you say, man, eight quarters of this series, the Pistons have been the clearly better team for six or seven of them. But going into last night, I thought, okay, the Pistons got demoralized by that fourth quarter. Yes, a 21 to nothing run in this series. If you were to say, hey, who are the five best players in the series? The Knicks should have four of the five. Madison Square Garden is one of the only true home court advantages that exists still in the NBA. Because it's so loud, they don't play the goofy music throughout the game. The fans are really into it. I know I sound like an old man, but it's true. And Cade Cunningham and those kids on the Pistons, along with the, you know, veterans in Tobias Harris and Schroeder, said, no, not today. And Jalen Brunson played well, but was really trying to get everyone in foul trouble. And that maybe took him a little bit out of rhythm early, even though he finished with 37. Karl Anthony Towns went total milk carton mode, where he was nowhere to be found for the final 20 game minutes of that game. Mikhail Bridges played, I thought fine, but missed some open shots. And now all of a sudden you find yourself in a fight With a team. That crowd in Detroit, Colin, the last playoff game the Detroit Pistons won prior to last night, Paul Pierce was their opponent. It was against the 08 Celtics in the Eastern Conference finals. So that crowd is going to be out of their mind. And so I think all of a sudden, instead of this being what it should have been, a tidy five games for New York, it's looking like it's going to be 6 or 7 with Tibbs playing his guys 40 plus minutes every single night. And then they're going to walk into a buzzsaw against Boston. So I still think the Knicks are going to win this series. I think they have more talent than the Pistons and I don't think as great as Cade was last night and he was great all year, I don't think he's going to throw up. 3312 every game. But the Knicks needed to win this series quickly to have any shot against Boston, which they probably didn't to begin with anyway. And I no longer think they're going to be able to do that.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, so I'll get to the Lakers again in a second. I want to go to Houston. I pick Houston to win and I, Me too, in six or seven.

[Nick Wright]

I thought they need to score, they need to make some shots.

[Colin Cowherd]

But it's really interesting. I want to throw this at you. This is almost bigger than the series. Jalen Green and Amen Thompson didn't go to college. They went and got some money, went to these other leagues. And I watched Jalen Green and I'm like, what is he? He's just an athlete. I mean the staff clearly doesn't trust him. And I, and I sat and I watched it and I thought, and I don't want to go too into the weeds on this, but I'm like, here's what worries me about Houston. A bunch of great athletes. I trust one guy in the half court offense, Shen Gun. Other than that, I trust Butler, I trust Steph Pod's, I actually think can hit big shots. Draymond I trust as a catalyst. I may be on the wrong side of this. Golden State has been in so many of these games. You know, Nick, playoff basketball is often half court basketball and Houston's not good at it.

[Nick Wright]

All right, so there's a lot here. You, you know how they give us those inside the coach huddle sound bites and normally they're super sanitized because they're not allowed to give us any strategy. I thought TNT released a clip during the game of Kerr talking that I thought the warriors might get mad at because it was a little revealing where Kerr says if we stop turning the ball over, they can't score. And then he's added they cannot score on our half court defense. That was correct. But it also showed, I think, how little respect Golden State understandably has for Houston's half court offense. Here is the reason, because I picked the Rockets in seven and admittedly I was watching that game like, okay, if this gets to 7, is there a single player on the Rockets other than Shingoon and Fred Van Vliet that aren't going to be terrified to shoot the ball? So that gave me some trepidation. But here are the two reasons that I think you and I might be okay with our picks. First one is this for a game where the Rockets couldn't score for them to be down 23 in the late third quarter and still claw their way back not to get it to a four point game, not because they hit a bunch of threes, but because their defense is that good and can slow down the warriors as much as it did. That to me was a positive sign. And the other one is Steph and Jimmy combined for 56 and the warriors still only score 95 points. You're higher on pods than I am. I'm old enough to remember you calling him a Klay Thompson replacement. That was maybe a little premature, but he is their third best offensive player. Draymond doesn't want to shoot. Moody doesn't want to shoot. They're playing G.I. santos, who shouldn't be in the playoffs right now. Quinton Post, who all he wants to do is shoot. Like the warriors are a couple bodies short of being a championship caliber team. Now maybe they can get past Houston based on the brilliance of Step anyway. But here's One other note. Three years ago when Step was 34, not 37 and the warriors won the championship that entire postseason run, he played more minutes than he did in game one. This, this past game one time. Like the warriors already are going to the man, we are going to die when Steph or Jimmy isn't on the court. And so if the Rockets can get the split in game two and extend this series, I think they could be okay. But somebody's got to make some shots and somebody's got to play confidently offensive basketball.

[Colin Cowherd]

Okay, we get to the Laker. I think the market sometimes tells you five and a half point favorites at home. I thought Austin Reeves got bullied. They depended greatly on Luka who didn't pass but scored. And LeBron had eight days off and just didn't. I mean listen, it was the classic underdog comes in told they're facing the league's marquee franchise, big chip on their shoulder, well coached and the Lakers were caught flat footed and just never could ship. I do think they're just built and I think ant's become a tremendous player. But I do think the Lakers are built to win this series because as much as we love defense, you gotta get buckets and they got three playmakers. What say you? I think the Lakers take tonight in control of the series.

[Nick Wright]

Well, listen, I do think they win tonight and I'd be shocked if they lose tonight. But I was shocked the way they looked in game one. And I agree with you that offensively the Lakers will be much better. Austin will be better, LeBron will be more assertive, they'll hit more threes. Offensively I do not worry about the Lakers. Here though is the way the Timberwolves can win tonight or win this series. I think that the Lakers defensive approach of we are going to make ant a playmaker instead of a scorer was the exact opposite because I think that has serious knock on effects. First of all, the Timberwolves over the last few years are in the regular season I think 213 when Anthony Edwards has eight or more assists and the three losses they scored a ton of points, they just couldn't get stops. They are at their best when ant is playmaking because A you have good three point shooters that are getting wide open looks and B, everyone knows when guys are getting the ball and seeing the ball go in. They then defend better because they're more locked into the game. So I thought the Lakers approach would be and I think it should be ant you're going to be single guarded and if you score 40 we'll deal with it. Basically what the Timberwolves did to Luka. The Timberwolves said, Luka, if you get 40, so be it. You're not going to get 10 assists. The Lakers have the opposite approach. I think that's a mistake. I also think when it comes to Jackson Hayes, JJ's got to make a decision. 0 minutes or 15 plus but 8 minutes is nonsense. Like it's not enough time to get in a rhythm but it's enough time to do some damage to your own team. Like so he's got to make a decision there. I think The Lakers best five man lineup involves asking a 40 year old guy in year 22 to play center. But I think Luka, Austin, Dorian, Rui and LeBron with LeBron at the 5 might be the lineup that gives Minnesota the most trouble. Because the way to punish that lineup would be have Rudy Gobert get the ball. But they won't pass the ball to Rudy Gobert and he can't score. So that's what I would do. I think the Lakers will win tonight and I think they're fine. But I was a 9 out of 10 in confidence going into the series. I would say I'm a 6, 7 out of 10 after the first game.

[Colin Cowherd]

I'm going to throw a take at you before we go, so love it. You're old enough to have seen MJ play a lot. I'm old enough to remember all of it, including the bad games. But I, I've always said LeBron's always been more magic. I mean then really the personality, passing, ball handling, elevating others. LeBron's more magic than MJ. Kobe was MJ light. But I've also, I, I do believe this. If you combine Kawhi and Kobe, that is mj is that hand size, strength, no body fat strength, mid range brilliance. Michael had personality and durability. Kawhi doesn't. But Kobe didn't have hand size or that kind of strength that basically, if you never saw MJ play, Kobe had his flair, his personality and durability. Leonard had the hand size, the strength that, I mean, he, he, I mean he'll take on anybody. He doesn't even need pick and rolls. It's like just bring on Gordon, bring on Porter, that. I think there are times that I, I do see some Michael where I'm like, God, if he just was able to play and had a little personality, what do you make of Kawhi?

[Nick Wright]

Well, listen, I, Kawhi, I saw James Harden, you know, basically be like he's been disrespected or underrated. I think Kawhi is one of the only superstars in the league who. There has never been a day of his career he was underrated. He's always either been properly rated or there was a brief moment when he went to the Clippers and people were talking about it like he was the best player in the league, where he was a touch overrated, but he's been properly rated. I think everyone understands that a healthy Kawhi Leonard is year in and year out a top five playoff performer in the league. That is what he is now. I think that he has earned that right over a decade of playoff performances, all of them save the bubble. When he and the Clippers fell apart, when he's been healthy, he's been really good. So set the health aside, put it in a drawer and hope that he's actually healthy. I do think that we have become so incredibly prisoner of the momenty about everything that it's not about what happened last year or even last week. Game one of this series, he was the third or fourth best player in the game and James Harden was better. Joker was better. Jamal Murray had an argument. Now, game two, he gave us the best game any player has had in any game this postseason. And so I, I think Kawhi is a brilliant player who the nights that his mid range is falling like it was last night, there truly is nothing you can do with him. I and it was a great win and a great performance. But we, because I think we feel like we were cheated out of a few years of Kawhi playoff runs. We maybe, when we see it, you know, get a little over our skis about, you know, where he is in the NBA hierarchy or how often we can rely on that. But he was unbelievable last night. And the other takeaway from last night, before we go, just fair is fair. It doesn't happen often, but when it happens, it has to be acknowledged. Nikola Jokic, that was the worst playoff game he's had in a few years. And he's a big part of. Yeah, he lost track of the clock, took a terrible shot when there was plenty of time. The final shot of the game, Aaron Gordon's wide open. He forces it when he doesn't need to. He has seven turnovers. He has missed free throws. Their path is Joker being the best player in the world. He wasn't anywhere close to that last night. So again, heavy is the head that wears the crown. He wears the best player in the world crown last night. I expect him to bounce back, but if you just get an average Joker game last night, the Nuggets are up two nothing. And it's a very different series.

[Colin Cowherd]

Nick Wright, co host first things first. You look great as always, buddy. Crush it today.

[Nick Wright]

Thank you. You too. See you soon.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah. He pays for his own seats. That's a real journalist, America. No freebies. No freebies. Nick Wright's out there grabbing his wallet.

[Nick Wright]

Just confirmed.

[J Mac]

I'll be at Lakers Timberwolves tonight.

[Colin Cowherd]

How'd you get those tickets?

[J Mac]

What's it to you?

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, as the gold standard of journalism in American cable television, it's, you know.

[J Mac]

My buddy has season tickets. So I got the invite. I got tapped on the shoulder like, they're going to the bullpen. J Mac, can you come? I was like, yeah, just off.

[Colin Cowherd]

I mean, between your international travel and Laker tickets, you're like, you're almost a member of the Kardashians.

[J Mac]

I'll be in the doghouse for this one for a couple days. Probably with the wife. Yeah.

[Colin Cowherd]

Be sure to catch live editions of the Herd, weekdays at noon Eastern, 9am Pacific on Fox Sports Radio, FS1 and the iHeartRadio app. Looking to transform your business through better HR and payroll? Meet Paycor, a paychecks company. The powerhouse solution that empowers leaders to drive results. From recruiting and development to payroll and analytics, paycor connects you with the people, data and expertise you need to succeed. Their innovative platform helps you make smarter decisions about your most valuable asset, your people. Are you ready to become a better leader? Visit paycor.com leaders to learn more. That's paycor.com leaders at the end of the season, there's only one team that can call themselves NBA champs. Only one player that can call themselves the number one pick in the NFL draft. Well, there's only one electric SUV worthy of the title. The ultimate. The all electric BMW ix. What I love about the IX is that it delivers legendary BMW performance while its sleek design exudes innovative style from the inside out. Not to mention how much space and utility it provides. Over 75 cubic feet of cargo space. The IX is completely changing the game with an all electric suv. The greatest legends of sports never compromise any part of the game. So why would you settle for anything less from your suv? After all, there's only one ultimate the BMW ix. Everything you love about the ultimate driving machine, electrified the 40s and free agents Podcast with Daniel Jeremiah and Greg Rosenthal has prepared you for the 2025 NFL Draft.

[J Mac]

We've told you what last year's playoff teams need to return to the postseason.

[Colin Cowherd]

And how teams with new coaches should approach the draft.

[J Mac]

So as draft season comes to a close, you've got you covered. Before your favorite team goes on the clock, we'll break it all down once all 257 picks have been made.

[Colin Cowherd]

Listen to the 40s and free agents podcast on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts.

[Nick Wright]

Or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Daniel Jeremiah]

Peace to the planet. I go by the name of Charlamagne the God. And guess what? I can't wait to see y'all at the third annual Black Effect Podcast Festival. That's right, we're coming Back to Atlanta, Georgia Saturday, April 26th at Pullman Yards. And it's hosted by none other than than Decisions, Decisions. Mandy B and Weezy. Okay, we got the R and B Money podcast with Tank and J. Valentine. We got the Woman Evolved podcast with Sarah, Jake Roberts, the Funky Friday podcast with Cam Newton, the Naked Sports podcast with Carrie Champion, Good Mom's Bad Choices podcast, the Trap Nerd podcast and many more will be on that stage live. And of course, it's bigger than podcast. We're bringing the Black Effect Marketplace with black owned businesses, plus the food truck court to keep you fed while you visit us. All right, listen, you don't want to miss this. Tap in and grab your tickets [e-mail] podcast festival.

[Nick Wright]

There's a lot in life that feels like it should be guaranteed that just isn't.

[Daniel Jeremiah]

Fortunately, AT&T guarantees connectivity you can depend.

[J Mac]

On or they'll make it right.

[Daniel Jeremiah]

AT&T connecting changes everything. Terms and conditions apply. Visit att.comguarantee to learn more.

[Colin Cowherd]

Togman Shea is going to join us. He was great last week on the draft. There's a lot of rumblings. Cleveland and the Giants looking to move down. It is a move down draft. Here is the well traveled J. Mac with the news.

[Nick Wright]

No, no, no, no.

[Daniel Jeremiah]

Turn on the news. This is the Herd line news.

[J Mac]

So we got some great news on the NBA front. Giannis is getting back his wingman. Yes. Damian Lillard has been cleared from his blood clot and he will play tonight. Colin, this is kind of sort of shocking now. He's been only out since March 18, so not that long when you consider other blood clots ended guys seasons. Yeah, Dame Lillard is coming back at his first practice last Thursday and now he did have some beef with Tyrese Halliburton in game one while Dame was on the bench talking trash. They go back to I think it was the. What's that mid season tournament, whatever that thing's called.

[Colin Cowherd]

Dame's a boxer you don't want to mess with. Dang.

[J Mac]

I don't know. I like Halliburton. He seems like he's just out there having fun. I don't like Dan's a little combat.

[Colin Cowherd]

I will say this about the Pacers. I don't think people give them respect. Siakam's great. Halliburton's a great young player. Indiana gets overshadowed. They got dudes. That's a really, really good roster. They got closers. They can play half court basketball. They can get it up the floor. They are better than the Bucks.

[J Mac]

So most people like the zigzag theory in the NBA playoffs who if you win game one, bet on the dog in game two to come back and take the line work last night for both teams. This one tonight I believe is four.

[Colin Cowherd]

Four.

[J Mac]

It was, it was four. Went up to six, then back to four with the dame news. I think the Pacers win this one. I'm not sold on this, Buck. No, I don't think they're very good.

[Colin Cowherd]

I picked the Pacers in the series. I think most teams in the NBA, we know they're good. I think Indiana is good and nobody outside of Indiana gives them a lot of love. I think they have really good players. I like watching them play. Yeah.

[J Mac]

For all the talk about, you know, people don't play their bench in the playoffs. You only play like six or seven guys. Pacers have like nine guys they can throw at you and that matters. I kind of like the Pacers to win. I don't know, they can get up.

[Colin Cowherd]

And down the floor, they can do the half court stuff.

[J Mac]

Yeah.

[Colin Cowherd]

You know, certain teams like Houston, they look lost in the half court set.

[J Mac]

Poor Houston. Anyways, let's go to the second story and that's the Detroit Pistons. Colin, one of the best stories in the playoffs so far. Look at Cade Cunningham and then he points at Carmelo Anthony who's in the front row. Listen, man, Cade Cunningham looks like a legit baller. 23 years old and absolutely carried Detroit last night. Yeah, he was so clutch.

[Colin Cowherd]

Well, he was, he was Oklahoma State guy, wasn't he a number one? Number one overall. He was great. He just been, he was young when he came into the league.

[J Mac]

I, I, I put out for fun last night on, on Twitter. Who would you rather build around, Kate Cunningham or John Moran?

[Colin Cowherd]

Oh, Kade Cunningham. Easily.

[J Mac]

That's, I didn't think it would be universal. Kade Cunningham. John Morantz won a lot of playoff games. He's done some damn.

[Colin Cowherd]

I'm not anti John Morant. You people think I am, I'm not. But after about four different incidences I have my reservations like you are. It's one thing when you come into the NBA. Like I mean is Zion ever really changed? No, still, still injuries and maturity. Like I think generally mature kids, mature adults were mostly mature kids.

[J Mac]

Yeah.

[Colin Cowherd]

You don't find go to the, go to college with the craziest guy you were in college. Probably doesn't end up as CEO. I'm praying now, by the way, doesn't mean he can't be successful and a wonderful person. But if I think of the biggest partiers, the wildest guys in college, they're a version of that now, interesting.

[J Mac]

So, anyways, it was Detroit's first playoff win since 2008. Colin, I don't think FS1 existed in 2008. You were on the other side of the country. I wasn't here. Here's Tom Thibodeau. Very upset. The Knicks coach talking about how the refs say they had a factor in the result, obviously.

[Daniel Jeremiah]

Huge discrepancy in free throws.

[Nick Wright]

Huge.

[J Mac]

Huge. I want.

[Colin Cowherd]

I got to take a look at that.

[Daniel Jeremiah]

Right. So, you know, I don't understand, you.

[Colin Cowherd]

Know, how on one side that, you.

[Daniel Jeremiah]

Know, you talk about direct line drives. The guy's getting fouled and it's not being a call. Right? So.

[Colin Cowherd]

And look, I really don't give a crap how they call the game, as long as it's consistent on both sides. Well, so if Cunningham's driving and there's marginal contact and he's getting to the line, then Jalen deserves to be getting to the line. Okay, you got to remember, refs aren't paid to be fair. Okay? They're not paid to be fair. The Celtics, by the way, don't shoot a lot of free throws because they jack up a lot of threes. So the reality is Detroit is initiating contract contact. They're moving the ball better. They're attacking more consistently. Cat didn't have a field goal. There was like six minutes left in the second quarter. He never scored again.

[J Mac]

Well, I'll say. In the first half, Detroit, I think, attempted 13 free throws, the Knicks one. And the next drive, Jalen Bruss is driving all day. So I thought it was a little. By the way, free throw advantage was 28 makes to 16.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, because, you know, the NBA is like, we want to get the Knicks out of the playoffs.

[J Mac]

No, I just, you know, the. The whistle. That game was super physical, by the way.

[Colin Cowherd]

You.

[J Mac]

We've talked about this regular season and analytics is totally different from NBA playoffs. What we saw last night, just physical. A lot of grabby stuff. I don't love that.

[Colin Cowherd]

Well, that's the playoffs.

[J Mac]

Then blow the whistle and tell them, guys, stop doing that. We want to see basketball.

[Colin Cowherd]

Not a lot of football season play hurt. It's the reality of it.

[J Mac]

Here we go. All right, final story. Colin, let's go to the NFL. NFC north has become one of the toughest divisions in football the last couple years. Lions have dominated the last two seasons, and the success is it getting to their head. Team president making some interesting comments when talking about bringing the draft back to Detroit from Green Bay, trying to get.

[Nick Wright]

The NFL to consider bringing it back.

[Colin Cowherd]

Because I don't think they'll ever top it.

[J Mac]

So. And I told you off stage, you.

[Colin Cowherd]

Know, there's no way Green Bay will come close.

[Nick Wright]

In fact, they'll finish.

[Colin Cowherd]

They'll finish second.

[J Mac]

Or as I said to Brad, off.

[Colin Cowherd]

Stage, third like they did last year.

[Nick Wright]

Oh.

[J Mac]

Oh, a lob and a couple grenades there. Yeah. The trash talk in this division has gotten fun.

[Colin Cowherd]

Oh, it's a good division. Lot. A lot of. Lot of talk. That was pretty interesting.

[J Mac]

I mean, you know, what was the. What did Michael Jordan say in the. In that docu series? Hey, it's easy to talk trash when you're winning. Yeah. Chalk tracks when you're losing. Nobody does that. Detroit's won the division two years in a row.

[Colin Cowherd]

They're rolling.

[J Mac]

And now he's throwing this stuff at Green Bay. I think this is risky because I might be on an island. I think Detroit's coming back down to the pack a little bit here.

[Colin Cowherd]

Like, maybe Aiden Hutchinson does come back.

[J Mac]

One guy that can affect the defense.

[Colin Cowherd]

He's their best guy on defense.

[J Mac]

Well, their coordinator's gone. So is the office.

[Colin Cowherd]

That's. I think, the. The one thing that really worries me whenever an organization loses a star coordinator and they hire within. I'm not a fan of that. I am not now. Sometimes there's a certain culture, like Nike years ago brought somebody from outside the company to run. It was a disaster. Sometimes there's a certain culture where, like people in Google know Google. You don't want to bring in somebody from another company. They may not get the culture of it. But in football generally, if you have a coordinator opening, go get the best coordinator in the world. World. It's the NFL. All these teams are printing money.

[J Mac]

That the problem with the best coordinator in the world, he wants to be a head coach. He doesn't want to be a lot. Make a lateral move to coordinator. So it is really tough to find great office.

[Colin Cowherd]

Yeah, but that's the downside to hiring good people. They may leave.

[Nick Wright]

Yeah.

[Colin Cowherd]

That's the reality of life.

[J Mac]

That's a good point. Yeah.

[Colin Cowherd]

J. Mac with the news. Well, that's the news. And thanks for stopping by. The Herd liner back. He's already gambling and getting free Laker tickets. It's like. It's like he never left. Todd McShay, last hour live in LA, it's the herd. Be sure to catch live editions of the Herd. Weekdays at noon Eastern, 9am Pacific Draft coverage. Yep.

[Nick Wright]

With the first pick.

[Colin Cowherd]

The biggest names that know about every player in every team. You've got it right here. Listen Ass Fox NFL Insider Jay Glaser, former New York jets general manager Joe Douglas, college football hall of Famer and former number two overall pick levar Arrington, and Fox Sports lead college football reporter Jenny Taft deliver the pick by pick coverage.

[Nick Wright]

This is an exciting night.

[Colin Cowherd]

Foxtrap Night Live lives right here on Fox Sports Radio. Looking to transform your business through better HR and payroll? Meet Paycor, a paychecks company. The powerhouse solution that empowers leaders to drive results. From recruiting and development to payroll and analytics, paycor connects you with the people, data and expertise you need to succeed. Their innovative platform helps you make smarter decisions about your most valuable asset, your people. Are you ready to become a better leader? Visit paycor.com leaders to learn more. That's paycor.com leaders at the end of the season, there's only one team that can call themselves NBA champs. Only one player that can call themselves the number one pick in the NFL draft. Well, there's only one electricity electric SUV worthy of the title. The ultimate. The all electric BMW ix. What I love about the IX is that it delivers legendary BMW performance while its sleek design exudes innovative style from the inside out, not to mention how much space and utility it provides. Over 75 cubic feet of cargo space, the IX is completely changing the game with an all electric suv. The greatest legends of sports never compromise any part of the game, so why would you settle for anything less from your suv? After all, there's only one ultimate the BMW ix. Everything you love about the ultimate driving Machine electrified the 40s and free agents Podcast with Daniel Jeremiah and Greg Rosenthal has prepared you for the 2025 NFL Draft.

[J Mac]

We've told you what last year's playoff teams need to return to the postseason.

[Colin Cowherd]

And how teams with new coaches should approach the draft.

[J Mac]

So as draft season comes to a close, we've got you covered. Before your favorite team goes on the clock, we'll break it all down once all 257 picks have been made.

[Colin Cowherd]

Listen to the 40s and free agents podcast on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts.

[Nick Wright]

Or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Daniel Jeremiah]

Peace to the planet. I go by the name of Charlemagne Tha God and guess what? I can't wait to see y'all at the third Annual Black Effect Podcast Festival. That's right, we're coming Back to Atlanta, GA Saturday, April 26th at Pullman Yards and it's hosted by none other than Decisions Decisions Mandy B and Weezy. Okay, we got the R and B Money podcast with Tank And Jay Valentine. We got the Woman Evolved podcast with Sarah, Jake Roberts, the Funky Friday podcast with Cam Newton, the Naked Sports podcast with Carrie Champion, Good Mom's Bad Choices podcast, the Trap Nerd podcast, and many more will be on that stage live. And of course, it's bigger than podcast. We're bringing the Black Effect Marketplace with black owned businesses, plus the food truck court to keep you fed while you visit us. All right, listen, you don't want to miss this. Tap in and grab your tickets [e-mail] podcast festival.

[Nick Wright]

There's a lot in life that feels like it should be guaranteed that just isn't.

[Daniel Jeremiah]

Fortunately, AT&T guarantees connectivity you can depend on, or they'll make it right. AT&T connecting changes everything. Terms and conditions apply. Visit att.comguarantee to learn more.

[Colin Cowherd]

I talked about this earlier. If you're going to make a massive trade, you got to get a lot of opinions on it before you make it. And I can't believe nobody stood up before that Luca trade of the Lakers. In any room, it doesn't matter if you're on the phone. A zoom call, somebody would go, yeah, I don't feel good about this at all. So is Luca or is Nico Harrison a loner, too private and only surrounds himself with yes men or just inept? All of them don't qualify you to be a GM of an NBA team. I don't know the man, but he just should stop talking. But here's Jerry Jones on that deal. The world knows that. I've got my hands full thinking about what we think about over here, much less trying to figure out. I look at the maverick through very much entertainment eye and Gene lives and dies with that basketball and just cried when Luca left. But I understand that. Yeah, I mean, it's very rarely in my life. I mean, if you. I don't even have a list of them, but very rarely in life have I seen a trade in pro sports and immediately went, oh, that's awful. If the media summarily acknowledges that's a whiff, it generally is. I've said this about stars before. Sometimes we hype people up, but when we really go overboard, like Bryce Harper, LeBron James or Tiger woods, it's generally warranted, right? Like, it's like, like Christian Pulisic. Like, he's. He's our best attacker. He's our best pure soccer talent ever. And people have been on him since he was like 14 years old. It was warranted. Now, he went a little bonkers on Freddy Adu, but Moved off that pretty quickly. But the Luca trade is, what in the hell is that? What, what are we doing here? And you know, I think most of the time your instincts, your first opinion on a move is whoa. And I said I would have slept on it. Ad Austin Reeves three first round picks, I would have slept on it because he'd missed back to back camps plays. No defense, can be ball centric, doesn't elevate necessarily everybody. I mean, the other night he had one assist and that's playing with LeBron and Austin Reeves. So he doesn't share the ball a lot. But I mean, one thing is clear. Nico Harrison. I heard this yesterday. This is hard for me to come to terms with. I did know that Luka was important.

[Nick Wright]

To the, to the fan base.

[Colin Cowherd]

I didn't quite know it to the.

[Nick Wright]

To what level, but really the way.

[Colin Cowherd]

We looked at it is, you know, if you're putting on the, if you're.

[Nick Wright]

Putting a team on the floor, that's Kyrie Clay, P.J.

[Colin Cowherd]

Anthony, Davis and Lively. We feel that's a championship caliber team.

[Nick Wright]

And we would have been winning at a high level and that would have quieted some of the outrage.

[Colin Cowherd]

Now, in fairness, if the team didn't fall apart physically and won on a nine game winning streak, it would have helped a little. I think the only thing that can save Nico Harrison, because I do like the Mavericks talent, they'll be a playoff team next year. I really believe that if, if Kyrie Irving comes back and they get a good draft pick, they'll be a good team. But if they got Cooper flag, and we've looked at the odds for that, I do think if they got Cooper flag eventually ad Kyrie Cooper flag, I think that would be the life preserver for Nico Harrison's career. But it is. Anytime you see a trade and your first reaction is the hell what is that? It's a bad trade. And I, yeah, it's, it's. I mean, I remember, I don't even want to mention this because it seems like I'm picking on him, but I, I can remember a quarterback getting drafted really, really high in a Midwestern franchise and just thinking this is a horrendous draft pick based on what I thought and what several people who I trust in the NFL thought, no reason to pick on him. Charles Barkley was more direct last night. Man, don't do no more press conferences. Like, I don't even know what you're doing.

[Nick Wright]

I really don't. Like, I got sympathy and love for.

[Colin Cowherd]

You, but I have Zero idea what you're trying to do. This war is over, brother.

[Nick Wright]

You, you, you got to take.

[Daniel Jeremiah]

You taking the L. I hope you keep your job.

[Nick Wright]

I hope that team get healthy.

[Colin Cowherd]

But, man, don't do any more interviews. Yeah, and if you do, I've said this about NFL coaches before. If you do a press conference on Wednesday, don't wing it. Like, the answer to almost anything as a public figure is politician, football coach, gm. Don't wing it. And I feel, I do feel bad. But the craziest part about this is, did nobody for the Mavericks raise their voice or their hand before this was considered? Which leads me to believe. I mean, Jason Kidd didn't know, Mark Cuban didn't know, and both of those guys, especially Cuban. Cuban's a talker. He's social, he's verbal. If Mark didn't know, if Jason Kidd didn't know, well, then you're relying on, like, what, junior staffers for the biggest move in the history of the franchise. If I was going to make a massive career move, I have four or five people I'd call all of them much more successful than me. And I'd say, hey, you tell me, you've been in this business for 20 years. I wouldn't go to interns. Hey, Sparky, what do you think? Like, Jason Kidd didn't know, Mark Cuban didn't know. Those are Jason Kidd's top five point guard ever, and Cuban's one of the smartest people in the country in tech and frankly, been a good owner. If you didn't include those two guys, who were you including in the conversation?

[J Mac]

A lot of people just want to be surrounded by yes men, Colin. They want to be told that.

[Colin Cowherd]

Reinforce your beliefs. We, like everybody, just agreed with it. If you had five guys that didn't that like the NBA but didn't love it, if you had five of your buddies and said, hey, we're going to trade Luca for Max Christie, Anthony Davis, and a first round pick, all five of your buddies, even if they don't love the NBA, would have been, that's stupid.

[J Mac]

But we see this in NFL, NBA politics. You don't want to be challenged. You want. You believe you're smarter than everyone else and you can make all the decisions. And that's what this guy believed. Hey, I know AD and Kyrie from my dealings at Nike. We're good. We're going to win. Even you're out here saying, hey, with Kyrie next year, they're really good. If Kyrie's back, he ain't going to be back by Christmas.

[Colin Cowherd]

Is he bad trade, bad message.

[J Mac]

And by the way, chances to get Cooper flag 1.8% to get the number one overall pick. That's not happening.

[Colin Cowherd]

So you're saying there's a chance. Okay, he went from Nike to the front office. Maybe it's just not a good fit. I mean, maybe it's just that. Hour 3 Todd McShae Looking to transform your business through better HR and payroll? Meet Paycor, a paychecks company. The powerhouse solution that empowers leaders to drive results. From recruiting and development to payroll and analytics, paycor connects you with the people, data and expertise you need to succeed. Their innovative platform helps you make smarter decisions about your most valuable asset, your people. Are you ready to become a Better Leader? Visit paycor.com leaders to learn more. That's paycor.com leaders the 40s and free agents Podcast with Daniel Jeremiah and Greg Rosenthal has prepared you for the 2025 NFL Draft.

[J Mac]

We've told you what last year's playoff teams need to return to the postseason.

[Colin Cowherd]

And how teams with new coaches should approach the draft.

[J Mac]

So as draft season comes to a close, we've got you covered. Before your favorite team goes on the clock, we'll break it all down. Once all 257 picks have been made.

[Colin Cowherd]

Listen to the 40s and free agents podcast on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts.

[Nick Wright]

Or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Daniel Jeremiah]

Peace to the planet. I go by the name of Charlemagne Tha God. And guess what? I can't wait to see y'all at the third annual Black Effect Podcast Fest. That's right, we're coming Back to Atlanta, Georgia, Saturday, April 26th at Pullman Yards. And it's hosted by none other than Decisions, Decisions Mandy B. And Weezy. Okay, we got the R and B Money podcast with Tank and J. Valentine. We got the Woman Evolved podcast with Sarah Jake Roberts, the Funky Friday podcast with Cam Newton, the Naked Sports podcast with Carrie Champion, Good Mom's Bad Choices podcast, the Trap Nerd Podcast, and many more will be on that stage live. And of course, it's bigger than podcast. We're bringing the Black Effect Marketplace with black owned businesses plus the food truck court to keep you fed while you visit us. All right, listen, you don't want to miss this. Tap in and grab your Tickets [e-mail] Podcast Festival proudly sponsored by Nissan.

[Nick Wright]

We live in a divided country and our media couldn't be more polarizing. That's why we started the Middle with Jeremy Hobson. It's about bringing voices not from the extremes but from the vast middle into the national conversation. Each week we hear from ordinary Americans from all over the country. And when you subscribe to the Middle, you also get an episode each week called One Thing Trump did that focuses on just one item from the avalanche of news. Listen to the Middle with Jeremy Hobson on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.