Episode Summary: Hour 3 - The Knicks Have Finally Found Their Coach

Release Date: July 3, 2025
Podcast: The Herd with Colin Cowherd
Host: Colin Cowherd
Guests: LaVar Arrington, Jonas Knox

1. Los Angeles Lakers' Signing of DeAndre Ayton

The episode kicks off with an analysis of the Los Angeles Lakers' recent acquisition of DeAndre Ayton. Colin Cowherd expresses mixed feelings about the move:

"DeAndre Ayton means that the Los Angeles Lakers have now all of a sudden catapulted themselves up towards the upper echelon of the National Basketball Association because they went out and signed DeAndre Ayton." ([04:52])

Despite recognizing Ayton's potential to strengthen the team's interior presence, Cowherd remains skeptical about the immediate impact on the Lakers' title aspirations:

"I'm still not sold that it brings him any closer to a title, especially in the Western Conference with that gauntlet in front of them." ([05:00])

Jonas Knox counters by highlighting Ayton's elite abilities and the strategic advantage he brings:

"He can dribble, he's a good rebounder, he can score. It wasn't the most productive of years for him in Portland, but this is an opportunity for him to go to an amazing market." ([06:42])

2. New York Knicks Hire Mike Brown as Head Coach

A significant portion of the discussion centers around the New York Knicks' decision to hire Mike Brown as their new head coach. Cowherd questions the prolonged hiring process and the reasons behind the delays:

"Why did it take so long? They had to turn it into a circus. They had to scratch the itch." ([08:22])

Jonas Knox speculates on alternative candidates and the optics of hiring:

"Would that have been how you think that would have been received? ... How would that be perceived?" ([09:34])

The hosts delve into the potential impact of this hire on the Knicks' future direction, emphasizing the desire for stability and clear leadership.

3. Hypothetical Scenario: LeBron James Joining the Knicks

The conversation takes an intriguing turn as the hosts entertain the possibility of LeBron James switching teams to join the Knicks. They discuss the implications of such a move and its feasibility:

"Is LeBron James the next domino in line to fall to end up as a New York Knick?" ([14:00])

Cowherd humorously suggests a scenario where LeBron joins the Knicks under specific conditions:

"What if The Knicks said LeBron will trade for you, but you can't bring Bronnie. He's got to stay back." ([14:06])

Jonas Knox expands on the potential benefits and challenges of LeBron making such a transition, considering family dynamics and team chemistry.

4. Pittsburgh Steelers Extend GM Omar Khan Amid Trade Speculations

Shifting focus to the NFL, the episode discusses the Pittsburgh Steelers' decision to extend their General Manager Omar Khan's contract for three more years:

"He has received a three year contract extension that will keep him with the team through at least the 2028 season." ([25:05])

Jonas Knox analyzes the significance of this extension, suggesting it signals the organization's confidence in Khan's strategy despite ongoing contract issues with key players like TJ Watt:

"That says to me that's a firm indicator that the decision makers, the ownership of the team believe and subscribe in the approach that they're taking this off season." ([25:55])

The hosts explore potential trade scenarios, such as trading TJ Watt for Washington Commanders' Terry McLaurin, evaluating how such moves could reshape the team's dynamics:

"If there was the possibility of there being a trade partner for TJ Watt ... they have Luv." ([27:44])

Cowherd raises concerns about the Steelers potentially becoming a "mercenary" team:

"You have a group, ... I have never seen it be successful in the NFL." ([39:10])

5. Philadelphia Eagles' Head Coach Nick Sirianni and Team Dynamics

The discussion briefly touches upon the Philadelphia Eagles and their head coach Nick Sirianni. Lane Johnson defends Sirianni's coaching style despite past criticisms:

"He's evolved as a head coach. ... Bad play by a player, bad call by the coach, their name, their number, everyone's held accountable." ([47:17])

Cowherd reflects on Sirianni's relationship with the team and the challenges of maintaining success amidst high expectations:

"He has gotten the last of the laughs for now." ([49:36])

6. Bill Belichick's Foray into College Football with North Carolina

An unexpected yet entertaining segment discusses Bill Belichick's debut in college football as part of North Carolina's coaching staff. The hosts humorously speculate on Belichick's integration into the college scene:

"You think he's gonna walk a shame at this Fourth of July in Nantucket again?" ([51:19])

Jonas Knox commends Belichick's work ethic and dismisses rumors about his personal life affecting his professional endeavors:

"That man put in some work." ([51:45])

7. LeBron James' Contract Situation with the Lakers

Returning to the NBA, the episode revisits LeBron James' contract status with the Lakers. Brian Windhorst provides insights into the lack of substantive discussions about extending LeBron's deal:

"The Lakers and LeBron... did not have substantive discussions about extending his contract." ([52:13])

Jonas Knox and Cowherd debate the likelihood of LeBron remaining with the Lakers or seeking new opportunities, emphasizing the challenges of maintaining championship contenders in a competitive league:

"Easier path in the East." ([18:52])

8. Final Thoughts and Upcoming Segments

As the episode wraps up, Colin Cowherd previews upcoming segments, including exclusive interviews and future guest appearances. The hosts also engage in light-hearted banter about traditional show formats and future plans.

"The podcast will be going up shortly after we go off the air." ([46:30])

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• DeAndre Ayton on Lakers' Title Hopes:
  "I'm still not sold that it brings him any closer to a title, especially in the Western Conference with that gauntlet in front of them." ([05:00])

• Mike Brown Hiring Delay:
  "Why did it take so long? They had to turn it into a circus. They had to scratch the itch." ([08:22])

• LeBron James Joining Knicks:
  "Is LeBron James the next domino in line to fall to end up as a New York Knick?" ([14:00])

• Omar Khan's Contract Extension:
  "That says to me that's a firm indicator that the decision makers... believe and subscribe in the approach that they're taking this off season." ([25:55])

• Nick Sirianni's Coaching Style:
  "He's evolved as a head coach. ... Bad play by a player, bad call by the coach, their name, their number, everyone's held accountable." ([47:17])

• Bill Belichick's College Football Role:
  "That man put in some work." ([51:45])

• LeBron's Contract Discussions:
  "The Lakers and LeBron... did not have substantive discussions about extending his contract." ([52:13])

Conclusion

In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, the hosts navigate through a spectrum of sports topics, from NBA team strategies and coaching hires to intricate NFL trade speculations. Highlights include the Los Angeles Lakers' strategic signings, the New York Knicks' coaching decisions, and the Pittsburgh Steelers' organizational moves. With engaging commentary and insightful discussions, the episode offers listeners a comprehensive overview of current sports dynamics, enriched with memorable quotes and expert analysis.