Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd Episode: The Draymond Green Show w/Baron Davis: Ty Lue on Cavaliers-Warriors NBA Finals, Kawhi's Return to Clippers
Release Date: December 31, 2024
Hosted By: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume

Introduction

In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, the focus shifts to an in-depth conversation on The Draymond Green Show featuring former NBA player Baron Davis and Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Tyronn Lue. The discussion centers around the intense Cavaliers-Warriors NBA Finals, strategic adjustments made during the series, and the anticipated return of Kawhi Leonard to the Los Angeles Clippers.

Cavaliers-Warriors NBA Finals Analysis

Draymond Green kicks off the conversation by delving into the Cavaliers' journey through the Eastern Conference and their subsequent matchup against the Warriors in the Finals. He highlights the Warriors' unparalleled speed and shot-making abilities as significant challenges.

Draymond Green [07:05]: "When game three came, I said, you know what? We're only going to switch Steph and Clay's... But you can't switch everybody. They were just too good."

Baron Davis probes deeper into the initial strategy and the team's response to early setbacks.

Baron Davis [06:18]: "Is this the first time y'all ever talked about this? Come on. Sorry, Jay. Listen, the amount that was the fastball."

Tyronn Lue emphasizes the importance of continuous adjustments and the unpredictability of playoff series.

Tyronn Lue [03:00]: "The start of the NBA season is underway and you don't want to miss the hype atmosphere watching a basketball game live."

Strategic Adjustments and Game Dynamics

The trio discusses the Cavaliers' difficulties in maintaining momentum against the Warriors' fast-paced play. Draymond Green explains the tactical shifts made after suffering blowout losses in the first two games.

Draymond Green [07:22]: "We're only going to switch Steph and Clay's when they come together in splits. Everybody else, we're going to just drop back... But you can't, like, switch everybody. They were just too good."

Baron Davis reflects on the pivotal moments of the series, particularly Game 4, where significant adjustments were necessary.

Baron Davis [10:39]: "Speaking up on game four, one of the biggest turning points of the series..."

Game 7 Highlights and Critical Plays

In discussing Game 7, Green highlights the Cavaliers' defensive strategies and key plays that influenced the outcome. The conversation touches on Norm Powell's defensive efforts and how crucial certain stoppages were in sealing the game.

Draymond Green [25:10]: "Kevin Love, when he switched out on Steph, that was one of the ultimate sit-downs in NBA history."

Baron Davis adds personal anecdotes, recounting his presence at the game and the electrifying atmosphere.

Baron Davis [15:56]: "I was there. I was at that game."

Player Development and Coaching Philosophy

Draymond Green underscores the significance of player development within the team, emphasizing the role of dedicated coaching staff in nurturing young talent.

Draymond Green [33:16]: "I think it's important to have guys that are willing to be in the gym, do the hard, grinding work every single day, and then mold and get these players to where they want to be."

Tyronn Lue discusses his transition from player to coach, highlighting the mentorship he received from esteemed coaches like Doc Rivers.

Tyronn Lue [05:35]: "We came in the league together. You're an NBA champion, and I got a lot of respect for one of the coaches I hate playing against."

Discussion on Shaquille O'Neal's Dominance

The conversation veers into an appreciation of Shaquille O'Neal's unparalleled influence in the league. Both Green and Lue extol Shaq's dominance and the challenges teams faced in attempting to contain him.

Tyronn Lue [34:07]: "Shaquille O'Neal is my favorite player of all time... He was the most dominant player we've ever seen."

Draymond Green elaborates on Shaq's unstoppable presence in the paint and his inability to be effectively guarded.

Draymond Green [31:07]: "The biggest factor is Shaq. You can't stop him. His dominance was unmatched."

Clippers and Kawhi Leonard's Return

Shifting focus to the Clippers, the discussion highlights Norm Powell's rising role within the team. Green praises Powell's work ethic and compares his contribution to that of a "microwave" for instant offense.

Draymond Green [40:33]: "You can score at all levels, man. Just instant offense."

The conversation also touches upon Kawhi Leonard's health and his importance to the Clippers' future success.

Baron Davis [73:21]: "Describe the similarities and the differences between coaching Kawhi and coaching LeBron."

Tyronn Lue expresses excitement about Kawhi's potential return, acknowledging the criticisms surrounding him.

Draymond Green [63:22]: "It's hard to see all the criticism that he gets because he's hurt... He is grinding every single day to try to be on the floor."

Personal Anecdotes and Team Stories

Throughout the episode, Green, Davis, and Lue share personal stories that offer a glimpse into their relationships and experiences within the NBA. One memorable tale involves a playful prank with Shaquille O'Neal, showcasing the camaraderie among teammates.

Draymond Green [87:48]: "Shaq goes in the stall and he takes Devin's shoe... Devin comes back, puts his shoe on Draymond and sticks his foot in some spot."

Baron Davis reminisces about their early days in the league and the challenges faced when transitioning from players to mentors.

Baron Davis [85:15]: "Roy Williams recruited me... I had the blue Expedition. Remember that?"

Coaching Legacy and Future Aspirations

In their closing discussions, Draymond Green and Tyronn Lue reflect on the legacy of player-turned-coaches in the NBA. They debate the qualities that elevate a coach into the realm of greatness, citing legendary figures like Phil Jackson and Pat Riley.

Draymond Green [105:37]: "I would say Doc Rivers, I would say Al Adams... Bill Russell, Lenny Wilkins."

Lue envisions a future where he could potentially take on roles like head coach of the USA Olympic team, drawing inspiration from his experiences and the mentorship received from seasoned coaches.

Tyronn Lue [76:55]: "I would like that opportunity... to represent your country, there’s no better feeling than that."

Conclusion

The episode concludes with heartfelt thanks and acknowledgments among the hosts, reinforcing the bonds forged through years of playing and coaching in the NBA. Listeners are left with a deeper understanding of the strategic intricacies of the Cavaliers-Warriors Finals, the evolving dynamics within the Clippers, and the enduring impact of legendary figures like Shaquille O'Neal.

Notable Quotes

• Draymond Green [07:22]: "We're only going to switch Steph and Clay's when they come together in splits. Everybody else, we're going to just drop back... But you can't switch everybody. They were just too good."

• Tyronn Lue [34:07]: "Shaquille O'Neal is my favorite player of all time... He was the most dominant player we've ever seen."

• Baron Davis [10:39]: "Speaking up on game four, one of the biggest turning points of the series..."

• Draymond Green [25:10]: "Kevin Love, when he switched out on Steph, that was one of the ultimate sit-downs in NBA history."

• Tyronn Lue [76:55]: "I would like that opportunity... to represent your country, there’s no better feeling than that."

This comprehensive summary captures the essence of the episode, providing insights into high-stakes NBA Finals strategies, the growth and challenges of coaching, and the personal stories that humanize sports figures. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to the NBA world, this episode offers valuable perspectives on teamwork, leadership, and resilience.