Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – "The Draymond Green Show w/ Baron Davis - Pacers-Thunder NBA Finals Game 1 Reaction w/ Shaun Livingston"

Release Date: June 6, 2025

Introduction

In this special episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, hosted by Draymond Green, basketball legend Baron Davis, and Sean Livingston, the trio delves deep into their reactions and analyses of Game 1 of the NBA Finals between the Indiana Pacers and the Oklahoma City Thunder. The discussion provides an insightful breakdown of game strategies, player performances, coaching decisions, and future predictions.

Game 1 Reaction and Analysis

Draymond Green opens the conversation by expressing concern over Indiana's performance despite holding a lead. He states:

“If you get your shot up here and a guy gets on your side … that could bother him a little bit” ([44:37]).

The hosts dissect the pivotal moments of Game 1, highlighting the Thunder's late-game rally. Baron Davis emphasizes the significance of clutch performances:

“Haliburton is Mr. Clutch in the playoffs, man.” ([07:56]).

Sean Livingston discusses the complexity of coaching adjustments, citing Rick Carlisle's decisions and their impact:

“Rick Carlisle is playing chess.” ([18:07]).

Coaching Strategies and Adjustments

A substantial portion of the discussion centers on Rick Carlisle's coaching prowess. Baron Davis praises Carlisle's ability to make in-game adjustments:

“He's not afraid to make those moves.” ([66:40]).

Comparing Carlisle to other coaches, Draymond Green underscores his extensive playoff experience:

“Rick Carlisle know what he doing.” ([74:55]).

The trio debates Oklahoma City Thunder's coaching strategies, questioning their confidence and decision-making in crucial moments:

“OKC don't really feel confident in how they got here.” ([31:15]).

Player Performances and Matchups

The hosts provide detailed analyses of key players:

• Shai Haliburton: Discussed as pivotal in clutch situations, his ability to make crucial plays under pressure is lauded.

• Pascal Siakam: Highlighted for his consistent performance and leadership on the court.

• Obie Toppin (OB): Recognized for his scoring ability and defensive plays.

Draymond Green critiques Haliburton's playstyle during Game 1:

“He not going to go look to score every time. That's just not his mindset.” ([09:23]).

Sean Livingston emphasizes the necessity for Haliburton to embrace his playmaking role:

“He needs to be more of a playmaker.” ([38:41]).

Team Comparisons and Historical Context

The conversation draws parallels between the current series and past NBA Finals:

• 2015 NBA Finals: Comparison to the Golden State Warriors’ defensive strategies and team dynamics.

• 2016 Cleveland Cavaliers: Referenced to illustrate how experience and strategic adjustments can influence series outcomes.

Baron Davis reflects on the similarities between OKC and historical championship teams:

“OKC been drawing close similarities to the 2020, the 2014, 2015 warriors squad.” ([51:53]).

Market Size and Superstar Dynamics

A significant segment discusses whether a player's market size influences their status as the face of the NBA. The hosts debate the necessity of playing in major markets to achieve superstar status:

Draymond Green argues against market size being a determinant:

“LeBron James became the face of the NBA. Cleveland, Ohio. And that's not a big market by any stretch of the imagination.” ([72:34]).

Sean Livingston concurs, emphasizing performance over location:

“It's about production. It's still winning. It's still about that at the highest moments.” ([75:34]).

Coaching Decisions and Organizational Moves

The episode transitions to discussing the firing of Tom Thibodeau as the New York Knicks coach:

Draymond Green expresses surprise and analyzes the potential reasons:

“It was a step in the right direction … I don't believe that the New York Knicks, as currently constructed today, can win a championship.” ([97:18]).

Baron Davis reflects on Thibodeau's impact and the complexity of coaching dynamics:

“There's a huge part of him and his DNA that got you to that.” ([92:10]).

Predictions and Future Outlook

As the episode nears its conclusion, the hosts offer their predictions for the series outcome:

Draymond Green voices concern over OKC's ability to maintain their performance:

“We gotta roll with the Pacers.” ([103:14]).

Baron Davis sides with the Pacers, citing their resilience and adjustments:

“I'm siding with the Pacers.” ([103:27]).

Conclusion

In wrapping up, Draymond Green and Baron Davis emphasize the importance of strategic adjustments, player versatility, and coaching experience in determining the series' outcome. They highlight the critical need for teams to adapt and perform consistently under pressure to secure the championship title.

Notable Quotes

• Draymond Green on turnovers affecting the game:

  “They created 19 turnovers. That's not good.” ([05:35]).

• Sean Livingston on the necessity of playmaking:

  “You gotta be more of a playmaker.” ([38:41]).

• Baron Davis on coaching strategies:

  “Rick Carlisle made those moves he made tonight. And he's not afraid to make those moves.” ([66:40]).

• Draymond Green on market size:

  “LeBron James became the face of the NBA. Cleveland, Ohio. And that's not a big market by any stretch of the imagination.” ([72:34]).

• Baron Davis on supervising All-Star dynamics:

  “It was a celebration, like a homecoming.” ([79:43]).

Key Takeaways

• Game 1 Analysis: Indiana Pacers showed resilience but faced critical turnovers leading to their loss against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

• Coaching Impact: Rick Carlisle's experience and adaptability are seen as significant advantages for the Pacers.

• Player Roles: Emphasis on players like Haliburton and Siakam to take on more strategic roles to drive their team forward.

• Market Influence: Superstar status is attributed more to performance and team success rather than the size of the market a player is in.

• Future Predictions: The Pacers are viewed as poised to leverage their adjustments and coaching to potentially win the series.

This episode offers a comprehensive look into the dynamics of the NBA Finals, providing listeners with expert opinions and in-depth analyses from seasoned basketball veterans.