Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd Episode: What's Right - Best Of: Nick Wright reacts to Kyrie Irving's ACL, Steph Curry G.O.A.T. debate, how Michael Jordan still haunts LeBron James & NBA
Release Date: March 8, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume

Introduction

In this episode of What's Right - Best Of, Nick Wright delves deep into some of the most pressing topics in the NBA, including Kyrie Irving's recent ACL injury, the ongoing debate surrounding Steph Curry's place in the G.O.A.T. conversation, and the enduring shadow of Michael Jordan over LeBron James and current media narratives. The discussion is enriched with insightful commentary, expert analysis, and notable quotes that highlight the complexities of these subjects.

Kyrie Irving's ACL Injury and Its Impact on the Dallas Mavericks

Timestamp: [00:35]

Nick Wright begins by expressing sympathy for Kyrie Irving following his ACL injury, commending Irving's resilience and maturity over the past few years. He states,

"I've never seen anything like it... Him going from a guy who's like, well, a great player, but you're gonna have to deal with a bunch of other stuff to a guy where the other stuff is a huge part of his greatness."
[00:35]

Wright then transitions to the implications of the injury on Irving's pending free agency and the Mavericks' strategy moving forward. He critiques the Mavericks' trade decisions, particularly the acquisition of Luka Doncic's replacement, highlighting the resulting lack of depth and increased burden on Irving.

Timestamp: [03:20]
He elaborates on the trade fallout:

"The minutes he has played since the start of February... was playing big minutes since Luka's injury... And now, his minutes are sky-high because of the trade aftermath."
[03:20]

The conversation underscores the Mavericks' over-reliance on Irving after trading Luka Doncic, leading to increased pressure and the unfortunate ACL injury.

Steph Curry in the G.O.A.T. Debate

Timestamp: [16:32]

The discussion shifts to Stephen Curry's position in the Greatest of All Time (G.O.A.T.) debate. A notable moment includes a question about Shaquille O'Neal's endorsement of Curry being in the conversation:

"So Shaq said that Steph deserves to be in the GOAT conversation. Do you think that's a right take to have?"
[16:32]

Nick Wright responds critically, arguing that while Curry is undoubtedly one of the greatest shooters and a phenomenal player, he does not meet the comprehensive criteria to be considered alongside legends like Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, or LeBron James. Wright emphasizes Magic Johnson's unparalleled career achievements:

"Magic has nine first team All NBAs... three league MVPs, went to nine finals, won five championships. He's the greatest point guard ever."
[23:28]

Wright contends that Curry lacks the sustained dominance and versatility exhibited by other legends, asserting that the G.O.A.T. conversation remains reserved for players with a more extensive legacy and impact on the game.

Michael Jordan's Enduring Influence on LeBron James and NBA Coverage

Timestamp: [26:36]

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to analyzing how Michael Jordan's legacy continues to influence the perception and media coverage of LeBron James and other current NBA superstars. Wright asserts that the media landscape has been "twisted" to serve Jordan's legacy, affecting how players like LeBron are portrayed:

"We've turned two guys into one person... We have totally erased one person's legacy from the... part of the story of Michael Jordan."
[26:36]

He criticizes the media's approach, highlighting how historical narratives around Jordan have overshadowed other players' achievements. Wright points out that current superstars face undue scrutiny influenced by comparisons to Jordan:

"Because so much of how we consume today's NBA... has to do with how we have discussed and talked about these two players. Michael Jordan, LeBron James."
[26:36]

Additionally, Wright examines LeBron's recent comments on the negativity in NBA coverage, discussing the backlash from media personalities like Stephen A. and Bill Simmons. He showcases LeBron's frustration with the perpetual criticism faced by "face of the league" players and how this stems from ingrained media biases established during Jordan's era.

Notable Quote:

"How many times have you heard this? Well, if it were LeBron, we'd be killing him. The way LeBron was covered set a template..."
[26:36]

Wright argues that this entrenched media perspective limits the discourse around current players, preventing a fair and unbiased evaluation of their performances and contributions to the game.

LeBron James' Commentary on NBA Coverage Negativity

Timestamp: [27:00]

LeBron James recently addressed the prevailing negativity in NBA coverage, emphasizing the need for a more positive discourse:

"Our game has never been better... Even when players don't perform, we need to discuss that in a way that's not to bring finality to that player's game, but to leave room to see how that player responds."
[27:00]

Wright agrees with LeBron's assessment but adds complexity by highlighting the unique position LeBron holds in shaping this narrative. He suggests that LeBron's prominence has inadvertently set higher expectations and increased scrutiny:

"The way LeBron was covered has impacted how every other superstar... is covered."
[27:00]

This dynamic creates a challenging environment for other players who, unlike LeBron, do not carry the same historical weight or legacy, leading to discrepancies in media treatment and public perception.

Conclusion

Throughout the episode, Nick Wright provides a thorough and candid analysis of the current NBA landscape, shedding light on the intricate interplay between player performances, media narratives, and historical legacies. By addressing Kyrie Irving's injury, Steph Curry's place in the G.O.A.T. debate, and the lingering influence of Michael Jordan on LeBron James, Wright offers listeners a nuanced perspective on the evolving dynamics of professional basketball.

Key Takeaways:

• Kyrie Irving's ACL injury has significant ramifications for the Mavericks' future and his own career trajectory.
• While Steph Curry is celebrated for his shooting prowess, debates about his place in the G.O.A.T. conversation remain contentious.
• Michael Jordan's legacy continues to shape media narratives, impacting the portrayal and treatment of current NBA superstars like LeBron James.
• LeBron James advocates for a more positive and supportive media environment, challenging the entrenched negativity in sports coverage.

Notable Quotes:

1. Nick Wright on Kyrie Irving:

   "I've never seen anything like it... Him going from a guy who's like, well, a great player, but you're gonna have to deal with a bunch of other stuff to a guy where the other stuff is a huge part of his greatness."
   [00:35]

2. Nick Wright on Steph Curry and the G.O.A.T. Debate:

   "Magic has nine first team All NBAs... three league MVPs, went to nine finals, won five championships. He's the greatest point guard ever."
   [23:28]

3. Nick Wright on Michael Jordan's Influence:

   "We've turned two guys into one person... We have totally erased one person's legacy from the... part of the story of Michael Jordan."
   [26:36]

4. LeBron James on NBA Coverage:

   "Our game has never been better... Even when players don't perform, we need to discuss that in a way that's not to bring finality to that player's game, but to leave room to see how that player responds."
   [27:00]

5. Nick Wright on Media Treatment of Superstars:

   "The way LeBron was covered has impacted how every other superstar... is covered."
   [27:00]

This episode offers a compelling exploration of the current state of the NBA, enriched by Nick Wright's insightful commentary and critical analysis. Whether you're a seasoned basketball fan or new to the sport, this discussion provides valuable perspectives on some of the league's most significant narratives.