The Herd with Colin Cowherd: Episode Summary – "Some Think Super Teams Are Done"

Release Date: June 4, 2025

In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, hosts Colin Cowherd, Jason McIntyre, and Alex Curry delve into a variety of pressing sports topics, centering around the evolving landscape of team dynamics and coaching changes in major leagues. The discussion is robust, opinionated, and insightful, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of current sports narratives.

1. NBA Finals and NHL Stanley Cup Finals

The episode kicks off with anticipation for the NBA Finals, set to begin the following day. Colin acknowledges Alex Curry's excitement, noting their recent conversations about the Stanley Cup Finals, highlighting the concurrent action in hockey.

Colin Cowherd [03:47]:

"We'll gladly take Yankees and Dodgers in the World Series every freaking year."

2. Knicks' Coaching Shake-Up: Potential Replacements for Tom Thibodeau

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the New York Knicks' surprising decision to fire Tom Thibodeau. The hosts brainstorm five potential candidates to replace him, debating their qualifications and compatibility with the team's culture.

• Mark Jackson: Recognized for his time with the Golden State Warriors, Jackson is praised for his legacy in New York City and potential to revitalize the Knicks. Colin emphasizes Jackson's resilience, stating, "Mark Jackson needs no introduction."

• Michael Malone: Celebrated for winning a title with Denver, Malone is seen as a dynamic coach who can engage with the media effectively. Colin remarks, "Malone really does feel like Thibodeau 2.0."

• Steve Nash: Despite a rocky tenure with Brooklyn due to conflicts with star players like Kyrie Irving, Nash is considered for his strategic insights and recent partnership on LeBron James' podcast.

• Mike Brown: Known for his defensive coaching, Brown is evaluated based on his ability to improve team defense, a critical need for the Knicks.

• Sam Cassell: Highlighted as a "player's coach," Cassell is noted for his ability to connect with players and bring a positive energy to the team.

Colin Cowherd [07:44]:

"Mark Jackson is just out there. And my gut tells me Dolan, wanting to win over the fans, is going to bring in Mark Jackson for an interview."

The discussion also touches on the possibility of Jason Kidd taking the helm, though logistical challenges make this scenario unlikely.

3. NFL's Number One Draft Pick: Cam Ward and Tennessee's Prospects

Shifting focus to the NFL, the conversation explores Tennessee's excitement around their first overall pick, quarterback Cameron Ward. The hosts discuss Ward's potential impact on the team amidst a challenging roster and high expectations.

Alexi Lalas [21:15]:

"This is the guy you have to take. This is going to save our franchise."

The segment underscores the uncertainties surrounding rookie quarterbacks and the necessity for Ward to perform despite the team's weaknesses, particularly in the offensive line.

4. Changes to the NBA All-Star Game: USA vs. World Format

The hosts examine NBA Commissioner Adam Silver's recent announcement about revamping the All-Star Game format. Inspired by successful international formats in other sports, the proposed change aims to heighten competitiveness and global engagement.

Alexi Lalas [24:55]:

"Anyone would better than what they were doing at the NBA All Star Game."

The potential shift to a USA versus the World or a tournament-style competition is anticipated to inject new excitement into the event, aligning it with Olympic-style competitions and fostering national pride.

5. Interview with Soccer Legend Alexi Lalas: US Soccer's Road to 2026 World Cup

A highlight of the episode is the interview with Alexi Lalas, a renowned figure in American soccer. The discussion delves into the US Men's National Team's preparations for the 2026 World Cup, focusing on the controversial decision of star player Christian Pulisic to rest during the Gold Cup.

Alex Curry [30:07]:

"This was an unnecessary own goal in that this was a summer where you had the opportunity through the Gold Cup to come in, do well and kind of regain some of that momentum."

Lalas critiques the mindset behind load management, emphasizing the importance of commitment to national duties. He expresses concern over the team's current apathy and stresses the need for renewed passion and effort to ensure a memorable World Cup hosted on home soil.

Alexi Lalas [37:44]:

"It sends the wrong message at the wrong time."

The conversation also touches on emerging talents like Jamal Musiala, highlighting the evolving dynamics of international soccer and the emergence of new stars.

6. The Debate on the Future of Super Teams in the NBA

Central to the episode is a spirited debate on the concept of super teams in the NBA. Colin challenges the belief that the era of super teams is over, arguing that stacking teams with star players remains a viable and popular strategy.

Colin Cowherd [48:48]:

"An NBA super team is when, as Miles Turner said, friends get together and join forces. They leave their old team either by demanding a trade or through free agency and they go to join other dudes."

He cites historical and current examples, including the Miami Heat, Boston Celtics, and Brooklyn Nets, to illustrate the enduring appeal and success of super teams. Colin contends that super teams generate significant interest and viewership, contrasting them with less dynamic team formations like Oklahoma City.

Alexi Lalas [49:09]:

"Or what do we have here? I gotta watch them on TV on Christmas, on opening night, on every relevant night."

The hosts acknowledge counterarguments, such as the NBA's adaptability and the unique challenges posed by the NBA's modern structures. However, Colin maintains that super teams continue to shape the league's competitive landscape and fan engagement.

7. Closing Remarks and Upcoming Topics

Wrapping up, Colin previews upcoming segments, including an in-depth analysis of the Knicks' coaching search and further discussions on the NBA Finals. The episode concludes with a tease of future interviews and debates, ensuring listeners are primed for continued engagement with the show's dynamic conversations.

Notable Quotes:

• Colin Cowherd [03:47]:

  "We'll gladly take Yankees and Dodgers in the World Series every freaking year."

• Alexi Lalas [21:15]:

  "This is the guy you have to take. This is going to save our franchise."

• Colin Cowherd [48:48]:

  "An NBA super team is when, as Miles Turner said, friends get together and join forces."

This episode offers a thorough exploration of significant sports developments, blending expert opinions with lively debate, making it an essential listen for sports enthusiasts seeking in-depth analysis and diverse perspectives.