← The Herd with Colin Cowherd
The Herd with Colin Cowherd
What's Wright - Predicting NFL win totals, NBA Playoffs field + Florida-Houston reaction
01:07:58
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- [00:00]
Greg Rosenthal
What's up everyone? It's Greg Rosenthal and I'm teaming up with the King of Spring, Daniel Jeremiah. He requires me to say that we're going to be bringing you 40s and free agents the only podcast you'll need this NFL draft season. From DJs mock drafts to my top 101, free agents will have it covered for you with all new episodes every Thursday keeping you up to date as we head to the NFL Draft. Listen to 40s and free agents on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcast.
- [00:30]
Mel Reid
This is Mel Reed, LPGA Tour winner and six time Ladies European Tour winner.
- [00:34]
Kyra K. Dixon
And Kyra K. Dixon, NBC Sports Reporter and host.
- [00:37]
Mel Reid
And we've got a new podcast, Quiet Please with Mel and Kira.
- [00:41]
Kyra K. Dixon
We are bringing you spicy takes on sports and pop culture, some interviews with incredible people who have figured out how to make golf their superpower, and iheart.
- [00:49]
Mel Reid
Wins Sports Production in partnership with Deep Blue Sports and Entertainment. You can find us on iHeartRadio app or wherever you get your podcasts.
- [00:56]
Kyra K. Dixon
Presented by Elf Beauty, founding partner of iHeart Women's Sports.
- [01:00]
Nick Wright
Tickets are on sale now y'all for our 2025 iHeart Country Festival presented by Capital One, happening Saturday, May 3rd at the Moody center in Austin, Texas. Don't miss your chance to see Brooks and Dunn Thomas, Rhett Rascal Flash, Cole Swindell, Sam Hutt, Megan Maroney, Bailey Zimmerman, Nate Smith. Tickets are on sale now@ticketmaster do I'm.
- [01:30]
Israel Gutierrez
Israel Gutierrez and I'm hosting a new podcast, Dub Dynasty, the story of how the Golden State warriors have dominated the NBA for over a decade.
- [01:39]
Nick Wright
The Golden State warriors once again are NBA champions today.
- [01:43]
Israel Gutierrez
The warriors dynasty remains alive in large part because of a scrawny 6 foot 2 hooper who everyone seems to love.
- [01:50]
Nick Wright
For what Steph has done for the game. He's certainly on that Mount Rush horn.
- [01:54]
Israel Gutierrez
Come revisit this magical warriors ride. Listen to Dub Dynasty on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcast.
- [02:06]
Nick Wright
Welcome in what's Right with Nick Wright, episode 317. Fresh off a wild NCAA Tournament championship game and maybe Wilder Western Conference playoff bracket as we head into the final five days of the season and we have right now five teams all with 32 losses. Both of those topics shortly on the show. And then as promised last week we will do our annual NFL Over Unders NFL Win Total show. These. These are not locked for us. We will do our preseason gambling show post draft po Obviously it's post free agency latent training camp where we actually make these bets. Now, heads up for the gambling stuff we're doing shortly. There might be a few that we like so much that we just say we're gonna bet them right now. We will. If we say that we will mark those down and count those toward our season long ledger that we, you know, do the accounting for at the very end of the football season. But some of these are just leans in one direction or another. We'll do all of that before we get to that. Welcome in Damanze. Damanze, how are you? I know this is the single most banal topic of any phone call or even a podcast, but I am curious, what is the weather like in Los Angeles right now?
- [03:41]
Damanze
It's pretty amazing. Pretty good.
- [03:45]
Nick Wright
I'd say it is still. It's April 8th. The Masters starts Thursday. It's 40 something degrees in New York. I am you it has gone on long enough that your mother came downstairs today and just said to me, I think I need to go away for a month. Not me, her. She's like, I just. I just need go somewhere warm for a month. She said, the weather is just sapping my energy. I so at, at some point the it's got to get warm in New York.
- [04:22]
Damanze
That was deep.
- [04:24]
Nick Wright
It's. Man, usually April's like a top tier New York month. Whatever. Nobody cares. All right, here's what missed the cut. Alex Ovechkin breaks a record that I did not think was breakable. The Gretzky scoring record. Now, let me also say something else. I don't. I think it's very important on this show to not pretend to be an expert on everything. People can get themselves in trouble. You. You pretend to be an expert on everything, you might all of a sudden find yourself talking LeBron in the morning, Ovechkin in the afternoons, and the Gaza Strip at night. No one would do that and then seriously say they're gonna run for president and then be wrong about all three. I try not to, you know, pretend that I know, mix some tariff stuff in there as well. Be an expert on everything. But I'm a die hard sports fan, and I'm enough of a die hard sports fan to know Wayne Gretzky is the only athlete I've ever seen that if you go to his Wikipedia page, even though the Internet is endless and a page can just scroll forever, and you're like, hey, what records does Wayne Gretzky have? You have to go to a separate Wikipedia page where it's like, actually, all of Wayne Gretzky's records are here. Um, so I just assumed this was unbreakable. And then when I heard Ovechkin broke it or when I. Obviously I knew he was going to break it, the last month or so it's been in the news, and I, I just said, again, folks can say bad sports fan, Nick, for not knowing this. I assumed Ovechkin must be like a bobby or style guy that played until his mid-40s. And then I saw Alex Ovechkin after he broke the record, and I was like, oh, confirmed. This guy played until his late 40s. Turns out Alex Oetkin is 39 years old. That is a hard 39 for Alex Oetkin. He's younger than me now and, And. And incredibly wealthy. Say it again. No, it's not just the. It's not just the gray. It just. And maybe it's the, you know, the, The. That coming up, you know, in Russia is tough. I don't know, man. But Alex Ovechkin, for a guy that rich and that successful, you know, that's a hard 39, but unbelievable. He breaks Gretzky's record. Everyone thought it was unbreakable. Here's something almost as unbelievable. Gino or Damanze has coached in 13 national championship games. That in and of itself is remarkable. He's 12 and 1 in those Games. 12 and 1 in the national championship games. I'm so happy for Paige. I. I think she, you know that her recruiting class, the top five for her high school class. Paige, Angel, Caitlyn. Oh, the bank, Br, Cameron Brink. Yes. And then Cardosa. Those five. All of them champions, oddly, except for Caitlyn. And Paige had to stick around a year longer because she blew out her knee. She got her title. Hopefully juju can have the same trajectory gets delayed because you blew out the knee goes and win the title. And then the other big game this weekend that didn't miss the cup. We'll do it quickly and then we'll get to it. More in the west playoff push segment was the Lakers dog walking the Thunder. And my. What.
- [07:53]
Damanze
What's your little Thunder done with their season?
- [07:57]
Nick Wright
They weren't in that game. I mean, they played all their guys. And the. I said on the TV show Friday that the perfect weekend for the Lakers was beating the Thunder. I'm sorry, beating the Pelicans. Beating the Thunder and then sitting everyone Tuesday and when they play the Thunder again tonight. And I don't know if you've seen the point spread in that game, but it's okay, see -15 because Vegas thinks that's exactly what the Lakers are going to do and basically denying the Thunder the opportunity for any get back leaving in the back of their head. Wait a minute. Luca knocked us out of the playoffs last year. They just crushed us this year. Luca's team, we still have no one to guard him. That to me is absolutely ideal. Particularly when the other reason I said they should rest guys is they play they being the Lakers play the Mavs tomorrow. So the Lakers since Saturday will have played the Thunder, the Thunder again and then the maps. The Mavs have not played since Saturday. So the Lakers, it would be their third game in four nights. The Mavs would be their first game in four nights. So now they're letting their guys rest and be ready for that game knowing and again more on this in the Western Rams playoff bracket stuff. If The Lakers go 22 in their final four, they lock up the three seed. If we just chalk tonight up as a loss, what it means is Mavs Rockets tanking Blazers final game of the year. If you win two of those games, you lock up the three seed which is gold for the Western Conference. My other takeaway for Thunder Lakers before we get to last night's championship game, the Thunder more so than any team in the Western Conference have so much depth defensively and even the Thunder found themselves in a spot where it's like hold on, if my best wing defender is on Luca and my second best wing defender is on LeBron, then who the hell is guarding Austin Reaves? And when you look at the Western Conference playoffs and you look across every team the Lakers could play and say power rank their wing defenders. All of these teams have at least one really good one. A couple have two pretty good ones. Only the Thunder have three really good ones. Everyone else, Austin Reaves is just going to be feasting on a mediocre or bad defensive player. And you the the Rockets have two awesome ones in Amen Thompson and Dylan Brooks. But who's the third? And so that's going to be a sneaky huge edge for the the Lakers in any series as far as I am not going to act as if because of that game. Awe, there's you know, systemic issues with the Thunder. Thunder gonna win 67 games. They're awesome. The concerns however would be as follows. The youth is just never seen a team this young make the finals, much less win it. Everyone has said that. Is your second best guy good enough? That's a Jalen Williams, Chet Holmgren question. We'll see how Will the playoff whistle impact Shea? He seemed to get it this weekend against the Rockets and the Lakers and it impacted him a bit. And then this is the last piece of it that I have not heard enough people make the point of when it comes to handicapping the Thunder for this championship. One of the reasons the Thunder have this insane point differential is they are. They are legit 12 quality NBA players deep. And so even when they have guys out and certainly when they go to their bench, their bench is so much better than the other team's bench in the playoffs. How good your 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th guys are is mostly irrelevant because you're really just playing seven or eight guys. So will that edge be muted a bit? Those are all legitimate questions. Remember, like, rate, subscribe, review. We're just this close to 200, 000 on YouTube. That'd be awesome to get there during, you know, maybe the play in of the NCAA or the NBA playoffs, certainly in the first round. So. And you can watch us live on YouTube. We'll also, by the way, be doing these emergency kind of reaction shows throughout the NBA playoffs. You can get those not just on YouTube where we'd love for you to like rate, subscribe and review. It helps us a ton. But also on itunes, Spotify everything. But now to the championship game last night. Damante. I was pulling for Houston because of our ties to Houston. I also like Kelvin Sampson. Tell us what happened.
- [13:36]
Damanze
Oh, yeah, I mean, Houston went from winning that crazy one against Duke on Saturday. I mean, I. We have. I've been pulling for Houston, but that ref should be investigated from that game on Saturday.
- [13:46]
Nick Wright
Okay.
- [13:47]
Damanze
But yeah, so they lost the crazy one to Florida yesterday off of the potential double dribble or whatever. What are your thoughts on the tournament and how it ended?
- [13:56]
Nick Wright
I mean, I have a lot of thoughts here. Houston did not get a shot up, not on the final possession, on their final four possessions. They didn't hit the rim seemingly for the last two minutes of that game. And somebody had a tweet that I wish I could give him credit because I thought it was really funny and actually pretty kind of profound almost talking about Houston's style. Cause they're just such a ferocious, relentless, tough defensive team where they said, I imagine Houston's practices are just three hours of suicides and punching each other in the face. And that kind of is how they played. But there's downside to that, which is they never, you never felt like they were against a great team going to be able to definitively put them away. And they had opportunities against Florida to put them away when that defense was just giving Florida fits. And Florida's, you know, stuck around just like Houston did against Duke, just long enough to where you see the college kids tighten up and Houston's kids tightened up. Walter Clayton Jr. You know, had a great final flourish in this game. After, you know, with five minutes left in this game, it looked like this was going to be the first game in two years. He had a 61 game streak of hitting a three. He didn't hit one until late in the game. He obviously didn't score his first basket until late. Late in the first half, or was it early second half, I don't even remember. But Florida was able to stick around and then steal it at the end. Not getting a shot off in that spot is just the stuff of absolute nightmares for a coach. But they didn't get a shot off like it was. If you just look at what Houston did over the final two minutes because one of the possessions they did get a shot up, it was essentially an airballed layup. They were getting no good looks. And when you go to the waning moments of the game, after L.J. crier made missed a layup and then tipped in his own Ms. With 2:30 left, here were Houston's possessions. Made a free throw, then missed a free throw badly. Missed a three. Offensive rebound, missed jumper, offensive rebound, Turnover, turnover, turnover, turnover. To not get a shot on the rim in the final two minutes of the or 90 seconds of the game is just so crushing. And you feel so sick for Kelvin Sampson. Yeah, but my, I mean, because again. Yeah, say it again.
- [17:26]
Damanze
The turnover before that.
- [17:28]
Nick Wright
Oh, yeah, no, I'm talking about the coach. You're talking about L.J. crier. L.J. crier. The back to back turnovers. And then Emmanuel Sharp had the back to back turnovers late. I mean, both there, but for Kelvin, who was a great coach, got a show cause penalty and got run out of college basketball for a while, came back and what he's done at Houston is remarkable. Since he's been there, it's the. Our buddy, our buddy's probably too strong, but the kid we root for, Quentin Grimes, you know, was there and they were a legitimate contender since he's been there. So Kelvin Sampson took over a mediocre team. His first year they're 13 and 19. His next two years they're in the NIT. And then, since then, this is what they've done. 27 wins and they won a tournament game, 33 wins and get popped in the Sweet 16 then Covid year, then 28 wins Final 4, 32 wins Elite 8, 33 wins Sweet 16, 32 wins Sweet 16, 35 wins. Lose the championship game by two and you know you, you hope he has another great shot. You don't know if he's going to have another great shot. He turned 70 next season. He'll keep coaching. But man oh man, it as much as they stole one from Duke, they absolutely let one get away. And so I had two recurring thoughts in that game. One was Duke had to be watching this game. Like you got to be fucking kidding me. Like we, we should be in this game. And you know they, they, their collapse was different than Houston's there. I know you put it on you.
- [19:37]
Damanze
Hate but like that was definitely, I.
- [19:40]
Nick Wright
Mean it's a bad call that call. Bad calls. College refs are bad. And the review process in college basketball is truly, truly awful. And what nobody ever acknowledges when they're like oh, they have to get it right and oh, we've got it, the tenths of a second could matter. And I bring up every time, you know what also matters? Fatigue. And these, this idea that being the better conditioned team should, you should lose all edge from that in the final two minutes of these games because every out of bounds call there's going to be a one to four minute break to review it. I hate it so much. But set that aside. My other takeaway from really this entire tournament, but certainly the final four we had four number one seeds. We had by kinpom rankings four of the best college basketball teams of the last decade all playing. And despite that, you've never seen a better illustration for the glaring and massive gap between the talent and skill level between guys who are good enough to be starters and big time players for the best college basketball teams in the country and guys who are good enough to play in the NBA. The like college basketball in the modern era where guys don't stick around typically for that long, the best players never do and teams don't stick together. The gap between that and the skill and talent and ability it takes to play in the NBA is the widest it's ever been. And it's why a guy like Walter Clayton Jr. Who is going to be goes into the tournament, a fringe first round pick can just dominate. And when most outstanding player like Edie's. I know there are some people, particularly where I'm from in the Midwest that swear and I always thought this was an odd stance to hold. Love college basketball. Hate the NBA now I'm not saying you have to like the NBA more than college basketball. They're again, they're different. Sports teach their own. But that was all always felt to me a more than a little racially charged opinion. The love college basketball, hate the NBA take because you simply never hear that in college football. Certainly have people that like college football more than the NFL, but I've never once met a single person who's like, I love college football, can't stand the NFL. But you do hear that sometimes. College basketball, at least you, where I grew up, used to all the time. And I always thought that was a little quizzical. But they're, they're just so vastly different products. Throughout this tournament, when guys made open shots, you were impressed. In the NBA, if a guy misses an open shot, you are shocked. And this game being stuck in the 40s late into the second half, just a vivid reminder of how incredibly difficult it is for the guys who actually can make it to the league. But congrats to Florida. Walter Clayton Jr. Going into this year, Damanze on most mock drafts was not even a second rounder. Going into this tournament in most mock drafts was a fringe first second rounder. And now he's probably going to be a late lottery pick. He's a little older, he's not that athletic, but man, oh man, that would say it again.
- [23:53]
Damanze
Late lottery pick.
- [23:56]
Nick Wright
No, it's awesome. It's great. Like the, what he has working against him is he doesn't have the great athleticism and he's played for five years and so or four years. So people are always, you know, you're 22, 23, how high is the ceiling? But I wonder if he could have a Dalton Connect style draft day where when he gets, he gets drafted by a decent team or a good team and people are like, oh man, he can maybe help you immediately, even if he doesn't have like all star potential.
- [24:30]
Greg Rosenthal
What's up, everyone? It's Greg Rosenthal and I'm teaming up with the king of spring, Daniel Jeremiah. He requires me to say, say that we're going to be bringing you 40s and free agents, the only podcast you'll need this NFL draft season. From DJs mock drafts to my top 101 free agents will have it covered for you with all new episodes every Thursday keeping you up to date as we head to the NFL Draft. Listen to 40s and free agents on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast.
- [24:59]
Israel Gutierrez
I'm Israel Gutierrez and I'm Hosting a new podcast, Dub Dynasty. The story of how the Golden State warriors have dominated the NBA for over a decade.
- [25:09]
Nick Wright
The Golden State warriors once again are NBA champions.
- [25:14]
Israel Gutierrez
From the building of the corps that included Klay Thompson and Draymond Green to one of the boldest coaching decisions in the history of the sport, I just.
- [25:22]
Nick Wright
Felt like the biggest thing was to earn the trust of the players and let the players know that we were here to try to help them take the next step, not tear anything down.
- [25:30]
Israel Gutierrez
Today, the warriors dynasty remains alive in large part because of a scrawny 6 foot 2 hooper who everyone seems to.
- [25:38]
Nick Wright
Love for what Steph has done for the game. He's certainly on that, like Mount Rushmore for guys that have changed it.
- [25:43]
Israel Gutierrez
Come revisit this magical warriors ride. This is Dub Dynasty.
- [25:48]
Nick Wright
The Dubs dynasty is still very much alive.
- [25:52]
Israel Gutierrez
Listen to Dub Dynasty on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
- [26:03]
Julie Stewart-Banks
It's Julie Stewart Banks. I'm doing a new podcast from iHeart Podcasts and the National Hockey League and I'm paired up with one of my favorite players, the always quotable Nate Thompson.
- [26:13]
Nate Thompson
I wore nine NHL sweaters and I have story after story to share. And believe it or not, I have plenty to say. And not just about hockey.
- [26:21]
Julie Stewart-Banks
Believe me, he does. Energy Line with Nate and JSB is the name of the podcast and it's going to be, well, it's going to be quite the ride. We're officially linemates, Nate. We're the Energy Line.
- [26:33]
Nate Thompson
We'll have plenty of folks join us, current players, some of my former teammates, hall of Famers, and wait till you see some of the connections that Julie has. She has quite the Rolodex.
- [26:42]
Julie Stewart-Banks
Okay, we'll lean into Nate's playing experience and tap into our interests away from hockey and. And try to do what energy lines are supposed to do, provide an emotional boost. How do you feel about all that, Nate?
- [26:54]
Nate Thompson
I'm vibing, Julie. I'm ready to roll.
- [26:56]
Julie Stewart-Banks
Listen to Energy Line with Nate and jsb on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.
- [27:04]
Mel Reid
Hey, this is Mel Reid, LPGA Tour winner and six time ladies European Tour.
- [27:08]
Kyra K. Dixon
Winner and Kyra K. Dixon, NBC sports reporter and host.
- [27:12]
Mel Reid
You forgot to save all my Miss America, by the way. And we've got a new podcast, Quiet please.
- [27:17]
Kyra K. Dixon
With Mel and Kira, we are bringing you spicy takes on sports and pop culture, some golf haps and interviews with incredible people who have figured out how to make golf their superpower or Just.
- [27:28]
Mel Reid
People we like, plus tales from the road and everything in between. By the way, golf isn't just for the dads, Brads and chads.
- [27:34]
Kyra K. Dixon
Yeah, it's actually life's cheat code and we're not going to be quiet about it on or off the course. We're bringing on some of our friends like Michelle We, Heather McMahon, Amanda Baliotis.
- [27:44]
Mel Reid
So if you want to keep up with us, and here is yap, tune into our new podcast, Listen to Quiet.
- [27:49]
Kyra K. Dixon
Please with Mel and Kira, an iHeart women's sports production in partnership with Deep Blue Sports and Entertainment. You can find us on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Presented by Capital One, founding partner of iHeart Women's Sports.
- [28:04]
Nick Wright
All right, let's go to the NBA before we get to our NFL over unders.
- [28:08]
Damanze
So things are going to come down to the wire on the west side. Everyone from the three to eight seat are separated by max of two games and then everybody from the four to eight are basically tied in losses. So how do you, how do you think it's going to go?
- [28:23]
Nick Wright
So first of all, credit to the Rockets for removing themselves from this group. The Rockets are. I, I thought the Rockets were about to get punched in the face by the schedule because and I think we talked about it last week, their, their final five games were Thunder warriors and then and they played those two already and won them and then it goes Clippers, Lakers, Nuggets. But it doesn't matter now because and this actually could work in the Lakers favor. I, I don't know if what the Rockets will do, but the Rockets just need to either win one or have the Lakers lose one and they lock up the two seat. So the because the Lakers max out at 52 wins. The Rockets are already at 52 wins. So if the Lakers. So here's why I say this could work out in the Lakers favor. If the Lakers lose tonight to the Thunder, which they will, the Rockets lock the two seed no matter what. Will that make the rockets in Game 81 against the Lakers Rest some people I don't know now maybe they would feel like they don't need to. But set that aside. Credit to the Rockets for handling their business. Now to the three through eight and we can throw it on the screen. The Lakers. The reason that Lakers two game lead is actually a three game lead is this. They have the tiebreaker over literally every single team on the screen there. Nuggets are the 4, Clippers of the 5. Warriors are the 6. Tim Rolls are the 7 Grizzlies of the 8, Lakers 48 and 30, Nuggets 47 and 32, and then Clippers, Warriors, Timberwolves, Grizzlies, all 46 and 32. The Lakers have the tiebreaker with every one of those teams. That is a symptom of the fact in one of the craziest stats of the season, the Oklahoma City Thunder this year against the Western Conference are 35 and 13. The Los Angeles Lakers against the Western Conference are 34 and 14. So why do the. Why are the Thunder going to win 67 and the Lakers are right now sitting at 48? Well, the Thunder are 29 and one against the east and the Lakers are, they are 14 and 16 against the East. So I mean, that's the difference in the standings, but that is giving the Lakers the tiebreaker over everyone. So I think it's going to go like this. The Lakers lose tonight, they beat Dallas and then maybe they beat Houston. If they don't beat Houston, they certainly beat Portland and they are the three. And now the interesting piece of it, Denver, which is falling apart, has not recovered from the Westbrook debacle. Joker can just put up 45, 15 and 15 every night. It doesn't matter. And I don't know if you heard what Michael Malone said the other day when Michael Malone said, yeah, Jamal Murray, we hope he's ready for the playoffs. That's concerning. I think Denver is going to lose to Memphis. Let's assume they beat Houston because that'll be game 82 for Houston and Houston likely is not gonna, you know, be playing their people. Whether or not Denver falls to the play in will likely be determined by how they do against Sacramento in Denver when they play on what do they play tonight or Wednesday? I should have had that up in front of me. I apologize. Denver plays tomorrow when they play Sacramento tomorrow. The Clippers again. So much of this is predicated by what the Rockets do as far as resting guys because the Clippers play the spurs tonight. So the Clippers will win tonight and then the Clippers play Houston next. But the question is, is Houston, assuming the Lakers lose tonight, going to be playing their guys? If they are, then that should be a great game. The Clippers after that are at Sacramento, at Golden State. Golden State has an absolute three consecutive layups at Phoenix. I saw Phoenix in person at the Garden Friday night. That they are cooked. So Phoenix, Golden State will beat Phoenix, then the spurs, who don't want to win, then the Blazers. So Golden State is going to be 49 and 32 going into the final game against the Clippers, which the Clippers are going to need to win potentially to avoid the play in. Potentially for seating. So Warriors Clippers Game 82. Massive right. The Grizzlies are at Milwaukee, at Memphis, and then home for Brooklyn and Utah. So Minnesota, Brooklyn and Utah are auto wins. Those teams are not trying. If they beat Milwaukee tonight, then Minnesota has a real chance of not only climbing out of the play in, but climbing all the way to the 4, 5 line. And then Memphis, it likely comes. They're at Charlotte. That's a win. Home for Minnesota, at Denver, home for Dallas.
- [34:39]
Damanze
Tough.
- [34:40]
Nick Wright
So, so let's, let's do it like this. What are the guaranteed victories on team schedule for The Lakers? Just one game. 82 against Portland. The Lakers will then need to win one other game to lock up the three. OKC, Dallas, Houston, they're going to lose. OKCs. They've beat Dallas or Houston. For Denver, zero guaranteed victories. Sacramento, Memphis, Houston. So no guaranteed victories for the Clippers. One, the Clippers put them at 47 wins. They have the spurs game, then Houston, Sacramento, Golden State. For Golden State, three guaranteed victories. Phoenix, Spurs, Portland, and then that Clipper game for Minnesota. So put Golden State at 49 wins. I'm going to do this in the doc so I can just see it. So Denver 47 with three questions. The Clippers 47 with three questions. As far as the games, the Warriors 49. One question game. Minnesota at Milwaukee, at Memphis. Tough. Home for Brooklyn, Utah, they're at 48 with two questions. And then Memphis at Charlotte.
- [36:15]
Damanze
Three questions.
- [36:16]
Nick Wright
Yeah, 40. Exactly 47. So the games that are going to determine the Western Conference playoff bracket is all of Denver's games against Sacramento, Memphis and Houston. The Clippers games against Houston, Sacramento and Golden State. For the Golden State, that one game against the Clippers and for Minnesota, their games at Milwaukee and at Memphis. That's it. And so right now I would think the most likely seating is as follows. 1. Oklahoma City locked to Houston, essentially locked. 3. Lakers close to essentially locked. 4. Golden State 5. Minnesota 6. The Clippers Lakers. Clippers round won't be fun. 7. Denver 8. Memphis. That's how I think it's going to fall out.
- [37:37]
Damanze
Is that ideal for you? Are there any sit. Are there any matchups that you.
- [37:41]
Nick Wright
Well, the ideal for the Lakers. Well, and by the way, that's se. The 7 8. Obviously then there's a play in situation. Yeah, the ideal for the Lakers, everybody wants Memphis. The ideal for the Lakers is Memphis getting to the Three line. I don't think that's happening. I would. Would I rather play Minnesota or would I rather play the Clippers? I would rather play. I don't know. Clipper's been really tough since Kawhi came back or since Kawhi's been playing like this. I'd probably rather play Minnesota now. Later in the playoffs. I'd take my chances with, sadly, Kawhi not holding up. But in round one, with him playing like this, they're. They're dangerous. Every. The thing is, everybody's dangerous. But if you're the Lakers, you can't worry about round one. If, if it were to play out to where you are on the opposite side of the bracket of okc and round two looks like it's Golden State okc. You sign up for that. If you, you know, if you, if you're the Lakers and you're only going to have to beat one of Golden State or Oklahoma City and they have to. They play each other in a war in round two, while with respect, you're probably playing the Rockets, that is the ideal situation. And I think it's what they've set themselves up.
- [39:14]
Damanze
I think the Rockets are going to be dangerous in the playoffs. I know you saying they're young and all that. I, I think they have a great offense wins championships.
- [39:26]
Nick Wright
That's fair. They have. And they have a great coach, 100%. Dylan Brooks gonna see LeBron in a playoff series and once again be like, it's Dylan Brooks time and I don't trust Jalen Green. Now. Amen. Thompson is a monster as a young player and Shingoon's great. Shingoon's great. But I. Again, the west is brutal. None of these are easy, right? But it's, you know, it is.
- [39:58]
Damanze
I'm not saying, like they can win. Okay, I said, I know I said defense wins championships, but I think they can mess somebody's road up, think, knock a team out early.
- [40:08]
Nick Wright
But you, but you're kind of treating them Demon, like they're not the two seed. They're like true the two seed. Playing to their seed means they're in the conference finals. I don't see that happening fair like now. Now, listen, maybe they, maybe somebody clips clips of the Lakers and they beat them or maybe they can beat the Lakers. But I, I think Houston, Houston has earned enough for me to wear at this point. I will almost assuredly be picking them in their round one series. I don't know. You know what I say that I don't know if I'D pick them against Minnesota. I think Minnesota could be tough, but.
- [40:47]
Damanze
Yeah, I could see going to seven.
- [40:50]
Nick Wright
Yeah, no, they could win. I just. But I think I'd probably pick Minnesota. This is always fun.
- [40:57]
Greg Rosenthal
What's up, everyone? It's Greg Rosenthal, and I'm teaming up with the king of spring, Daniel Jeremiah. He requires me to say that we're going to be bringing you 40s and free agents, the only podcast you'll need this NFL draft season. From DJs mock drafts to my top 101 free agents, we'll have it covered for you with all new episodes every Thursday keeping you up to date as we head to the NFL Draft. Listen to 40s and free agents on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast.
- [41:26]
Julie Stewart-Banks
It's Julie Stewart Banks. I'm doing a new podcast from iHeart Podcasts and the National Hockey League, and I'm paired up with one of my favorite players, the always quotable Nate Thompson.
- [41:36]
Nate Thompson
I wore nine NHL sweaters and I have story after story to share. And believe it or not, I have plenty to say, and not just about hockey.
- [41:44]
Julie Stewart-Banks
Believe me, he does Energy Line with Nate and JSB is the name of the podcast, and it's gonna be, well, it's gonna be quite the ride. We're officially linemates, Nate. We're the energy line.
- [41:55]
Nate Thompson
We'll have plenty of folks join us, current players, some of my former teammates, hall of Famers, and wait till you see some of the connections that Julie has. She has quite the Rolodex.
- [42:05]
Julie Stewart-Banks
Okay, we'll lean into Nate's playing experience and tap into our interests of away from hockey and try to do what energy lines are supposed to do, provide an emotional boost. How do you feel about all that, Nate?
- [42:17]
Nate Thompson
I'm vibing, Julie. I'm ready to roll.
- [42:19]
Julie Stewart-Banks
Listen to Energy Line with Nate and jsb on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
- [42:27]
Israel Gutierrez
I'm Israel Gutierrez, and I'm hosting a new podcast, Dub Dynasty, the story of how the Golden State warriors have dominated the NBA for over a decade.
- [42:37]
Nick Wright
The Golden State warriors once again are NBA.
- [42:42]
Israel Gutierrez
From the building of the corps that included Klay Thompson and Draymond Green to one of the boldest coaching decisions in the history of the sport.
- [42:49]
Nate Thompson
I just felt like the biggest thing.
- [42:51]
Nick Wright
Was to earn the trust of the players and let the players know that we were here to try to help them take the next step, not tear anything down.
- [42:58]
Israel Gutierrez
Today, the warriors dynasty remains alive in large part because of a scrawny 6 foot 2 hooper who everyone seems to.
- [43:05]
Nick Wright
Love for what Steph has done for the game. He's certainly on that like Mount Rushmore for guys that have changed it.
- [43:11]
Israel Gutierrez
Come revisit this magical warriors ride. This is Dove Dynasty.
- [43:16]
Nick Wright
The Dubs dynasty is still very much alive.
- [43:19]
Israel Gutierrez
Listen to Dub Dynasty on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcast.
- [43:31]
Mel Reid
Hey, this is Mel Reed, LPGA Tour winner and six time ladies European Tour.
- [43:35]
Kyra K. Dixon
Winner and Kyra K. Dixon, NBC Sports reporter and host.
- [43:39]
Mel Reid
You forgot to say warm and Miss America, by the way. And we've got a new podcast, Quiet Please with Mel and Kira.
- [43:46]
Kyra K. Dixon
We are bringing you spicy takes on sports and pop culture, some golf haps and interviews with incredible people who have figured out how to make golf their.
- [43:54]
Mel Reid
Superpower or just people we like. Plus tales from the road and everything in between. By the way, golf isn't just for the dads, brads and chads.
- [44:01]
Kyra K. Dixon
Yeah, and it's actually life's cheat code and we're not going to be quiet about it on or off the course. We're bringing on some of our friends like Michelle We, Heather McMahon, Amanda Baliotis.
- [44:11]
Mel Reid
So if you want to keep up with us and here is yap, tune into our new podcast, Listen to Quiet.
- [44:16]
Kyra K. Dixon
Please with Mel and Kira, an iHeart women's sports production in partnership with Deep Blue Sports and Entertainment. You can find us on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Presented by Capital One, founding partner of I Heart Women's Sports.
- [44:32]
Nick Wright
So we are going to go division by division, all 30. Now I am not. I will address all 32 teams win totals. But there's what I. I've already looked at this obviously quite a bit. Some of these I'm just like, oh, okay, that line is right. Like I, you know, usually Vegas is pretty good at these and anybody that's going to give you at this point in the year a lean on all 32, that's too much for me. Shout out. By the way, double shout outs. Actually shout out to Zach Lowe for bringing his podcast back. The Zach Lowe show signed on with Bill Simmons in the ringer. And shout out to Bill, who last year in his preseason over unders podcast went 27. 5 with preseason win totals which is just remarkable. So double shout outs to those guys. All right, this is the way too early over under start with the AFC east. We'll do each division basically from highest projected win total to lowest damanze. Give me each team and Then I'll tell you if I have a lean or not.
- [45:42]
Damanze
First we've got the Buffalo Bills. They're over, under a set at 11 and a half.
- [45:47]
Nick Wright
Over, under said 11 and a half. Heavy juice, minus 145 on the over. And this to me is that number is just right and I'll stay away from it. Like the, if I had to pick one, I would go over. However, minus 145 is too much and I mean they're smart people. Expect the Bills at this point with healthy Josh Allen, you're gonna win double digit games. It'd be a hard under to go with, but I'll stay away from that.
- [46:17]
Damanze
Next, you got the Dolphins over, under at eight and a half.
- [46:21]
Nick Wright
That's exact, that's the end with a little bit of juice on the under, minus 1:30. That is to me a exactly right line. I think the Dolphins will win eight or nine games. That is perfect. Last year, by the way, the Preseason total was 10 and a half. But I am, that to me is a stay away.
- [46:42]
Damanze
Next one we got the Patriots. They're over. They're over unders eight and a half.
- [46:47]
Nick Wright
All right, so this is juice to the under, as it should be. It's minus 140 to the under. This is in my opinion, an outrageous total. So now I should note, and I should have done this earlier on it all, you always have to look at what divisions each division's playing. So everyone has their three strength of schedule games a year. But then you also play your own division and then what are the other divisions you play for? The AFC east, they draw one of the toughest divisions in the AFC north and probably the weakest division in the NFC South. So that to me, you basically that's a wash. And so the reason I'm saying this is whenever you're doing these preseason win totals, check and see what divisions the other you know that those teams are playing and kind of power rank the divisions in your own head and then figure out, you know, are they, do they get two of the easier ones, two of the harder ones? Or is it like this where you get one tough one in the AFC north, one easy one in the AFC south and it evens out. So the pit with the Patriots have going for them is the last place schedule, their extra game.
- [48:21]
Damanze
He's pretty bad.
- [48:23]
Nick Wright
Well, maybe outside of the Bills, but here's the thing. They're really bad and they, I, I just don't know that they have done enough to have a competent offense. They upgraded it. Coach Drake may should be better in year two. That offensive line will still be a disaster. They for the third consecutive year, maybe fourth do not have a single draftable fantasy football skill player. There is not a single wide receiver, running back or tight end on that team that you would want on your fantasy football team. I don't think Stefon Diggs is going to have a big impact. I think the Patriots would be thrilled to win eight games. I'm sorry to win six games. The fact that this team could win eight games and the under hits is outrageous. I love the under for the New England Patriots. I will take under eight and a half and that's a bet we can put on my season long. I think that thing drops to seven and a half before the year especially when the draft plays out and they aren't able to get Abdul Carter or Travis Hunter. Not that a rookie should really move a win total. I will take under for The Patriots last AFC's team demons a we got the jets.
- [49:48]
Damanze
They're over under his five and a half.
- [49:51]
Nick Wright
Yeah I will take the over here so they got so much better in from a culture, stability, maturity standpoint in the coaching staff. They are not going to be under the spotlight like they were last year. I I think that it will be refreshing for that team to not have this. For everyone on that team who spent their whole career with the jets every year of their career the only story, the only thing people were focused on was the quarterback. Whether it was Zach Wilson going to get it together. Aaron Rodgers coming to save us. Aaron Rodgers tours Achilles Aaron Rodgers last year. This year it's just going to be about Aaron Glenn trying to set a culture running the damn ball, playing good defense. They I think that they won five games last year and I think this year they should be better. Not necessarily better at quarterback but not worse at quarterback and better a little bit better everywhere else and not have the energy constantly sucked out of the room. And I think staying out of the spotlight because they are not going to be a discussed team will be good for them. I could absolutely see Aaron Glenn getting there. That team finding its way to seven wins. I like the jets over. So for the AFC east the Bills I am staying away from the Dolphins. I am staying away from I am on the Patriots under and I am on the jets over. Let's go to Monza to the AFC north.
- [51:50]
Damanze
We got the Ravens at their over unders 11 and a half.
- [51:55]
Nick Wright
This is a tentative over for Baltimore. Now I would not bet the under on any year you have A healthy Lamar Jackson. Okay he's a all time regular season player and just guarantees you if he's healthy double digit wins. The reason I'm saying tentative is not because I might go under but I'm not sure if that's a bet all actually make but I do it does feel like last year was kind of a worst case scenario regular season for them and they still won 12 games and so that to me is I lean over I you feel like they're always going to be well coached. The defense came around by the end of last year. Lamar is unbelievable and you anticipate that they can win 1213 games almost every season. The Juice is dead even essentially on the over the under. The Lamar injury stuff does worry you a bit so I would just want to see him get through the preseason and off season everything totally healthy. I also before I make any bet on the Ravens damanze I have to make sure that Health and Human Services if that department still exists isn't projecting like a bad cold and flu season cause that absolutely can cost the Ravens a game because Lamar has the immune system of a small Victorian child as a funny tweet said once yeah well of course and so but I lean over for Baltimore next Bengals over under.
- [53:43]
Damanze
Nine and a half.
- [53:46]
Nick Wright
This number's just right. I would stay away from it. The Juice is heavily heavily on the over and at minus 1:50 and I don't know why we would think they're going to be a much different team than last year. A great offense, a bad defense, score a ton of points, lose a lot of games. They shouldn't because the defense is bad and so I that to me is a stay away next team Demase oh.
- [54:22]
Damanze
We got the Steelers. They're over unders eight and a half.
- [54:25]
Nick Wright
I'll take the under to me this is the now that means I'm betting Tomlin to not continue as well. You know what that's not true. I could win this bet and have Tomlin's record extend because it's never had a losing season. So 8, 8 and 1 keeps that thing going. Not that because the tie doesn't count as half a win. Sorry drop some tie doesn't count as half a win when it comes to this. But I will go under because eat One of two things is going to happen to Monse One of three things. Pardon me. Either Aaron Rodgers is not going there and they are starting Mason Rudolph or Aaron Rodgers is not going there and they are starting rookie either Shador Sanders or Jackson Dart or Aaron Rodgers is going to announce tomorrow on McAfee or sometime in a month. He is going there and bring that entire circus with him. And I think nothing would be more poetic than us finding out what's the only thing that can end Mike Tomlin streak of above 5 of 500 or better years and the answer is bringing in 42 year old diva Aaron Rodgers. So I will go under for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Now remember last year I was heavy on them missing the playoffs and going under and all of that and they cost me a ton of futures so I could be wrong. But I will go under on Aaron Rodgers or the Steelers without Aaron Rodgers. Either way, I think it's time for a bit of a reset in Pittsburgh. I'll go under there next.
- [56:15]
Damanze
All right, you got the Browns. They're over under his four and a half.
- [56:19]
Nick Wright
I mean we don't know who's going to be playing quarterback for them. We don't know what they're doing in the draft. That number is just really a slap in their face of number that low four and a half. You just don't see that very often. I'm gonna stay away. I can't bet under four and a half but I also obviously am not gonna bet on the Cleveland Browns. So thus far through two divisions. Eileen Patriot or I'm heavy on Patriots under. I like the jets over. I lean Steelers or Ravens over and I like the Steelers under. Let's go to the AFC South.
- [57:00]
Damanze
Oh, we got the Texans. They're over under his set at nine and a half.
- [57:04]
Nick Wright
That's just right. I worry about their injuries at wide receiver. You know they will. Nico is a guy who's an excellent player. He's dealt with injuries in his career. Obviously Tankdale is going to be out all year. They didn't bring back Diggs. They traded away Tunel. So you worry are they just changed offensive coordinators. But the defense should be really good and DEO is excellent and CJ's really good. So it feels like a nine or ten win team. I'll stay away from it.
- [57:33]
Damanze
Next we got the Colts. They're over under seven and a half.
- [57:37]
Nick Wright
I. You know what? I. I don't have a ton of Colts opinions this year. I don't really want to spend a lot of time thinking about the Colts. I'm not that interested in the Colts. Seven and a half sounds right. We'll stay away from it.
- [57:49]
Damanze
You don't have to bet everything to Jordan Litman.
- [57:52]
Nick Wright
To who?
- [57:53]
Damanze
My co worker. He's. He's a big fan of the Colts. And he always says that. Everybody says the Colts are just like nobody in the NFL.
- [58:02]
Nick Wright
Yeah, yeah, there's, there's there. I mean, basically, that's this whole division. Both of the Souths just get totally. You know what I mean? Disregard. But next.
- [58:13]
Damanze
Oh, we got the Jags. They're over under seven and a half.
- [58:17]
Nick Wright
I'm back, baby. Jags all right. Over. Better. New head coach Trevor healthy. Brian Thomas Jr. In year two. All of these things, I think the.
- [58:37]
Damanze
Right way is definitely go over here. But if they feel finished with less than that. What happens with Trevor Lawrence after this.
- [58:43]
Nick Wright
Season, it's not great, right? Yeah. No, no, no. Then people start. They start talking about, you know, how can we get out of the contract, like all that stuff. It's not great. Which is why it's not going to happen. Trevor Lawrence has returned to glory this season. He's. Listen, I know people don't, you know, are sick of me saying this, but it is true. Trevor Lawrence is just 25, man. 25 years old. He's the same age as Bo Nix, basically. Like I the. He had a brutal rookie year his second year led them to win the division and a great playoff comeback. His third year they were eight and three until he suffered injuries to three different parts of his body in three consecutive weeks and had to miss time and their season fell apart. And last year. Season from hell. I'm not quitting you. Trevor over Jags. Put it in pen. I'm betting that one. They are getting back in the playoff mix. I. That's all I'm saying. Just in the playoff mix. And Liam Cohen. I don't care. You said Duvall. Weird. You got the best out of Baker. I like you. I. I am with the Jacksonville Jaguars over seven and a half.
- [60:03]
Damanze
Next with you there you got the Titans. They're over under his five and a half.
- [60:08]
Nick Wright
See with plus one 25 on the under. And they're going to be starting a rookie quarterback from day one. Give me the under. Give me like, give me the under with Cam Ward. Even if he's good, I think that that is. There's gonna be a lot of growing pains. I don't know that I trust Brian Callahan. It's. And I'm getting plus money on it like now this one. I will admit I am going to bet this, but I am going to wait to bet this because since it's minus 150 on the over all these lines, obviously, by the way, courtesy of our friends at DraftKings, I should have been saying that that earlier plus 125 on the under. This might move to six and a half and I love it at six and a half. I like it a lot at five and a half. I will bet this at some point, just not this moment but starting a rookie quarterback, shaky head coach and oh by the way lines an odd subject to change. I need to tell you guys but you guys all know that you're Titans.
- [61:16]
Damanze
Can get six wins. Can't work. You mean you said I mean they can was going to go to the super bowl last year. He's a rookie quarterback.
- [61:24]
Nick Wright
Yeah but the so a couple things. The Bears were coming off a 7 win season, not 3 and 14. I was wrong about the Bears coach. The Bears ended up having a doofus coach and Caleb's way, way, way, way, way better than King Ward. Yeah, it's not even close. All right, finish it off on the AFC West.
- [61:42]
Damanze
So we got the Chiefs. They're over under 11 and a half.
- [61:45]
Nick Wright
This is insulting.
- [61:48]
Damanze
Insulting. The highest win total, projected win total.
- [61:52]
Nick Wright
Yeah, it should be 12 and a half. They won 17 games last year. They won 15 in the regular season and everyone told me they weren't that good. They, the they, they they went 15 and one last year in games Mahomes plays. They sat out week 17. The oh I haven't been giving you guys the division stuff. Darn it. Here's the other thing that I really like for the whole AFC west. Their division games AF they get all four teams in the AFC South. Awesome. And they get the NFC east which is only as in my opinion one great team in the Eagles. Now obviously the chief strength of schedule games are brutal. Their strength of schedule. So they get their own division plus the AFC south and the AFC Ease. And then the strength of schedule games are Baltimore, Buffalo, Detroit. So that's the strength of schedule is you know, outrageous. But the Chiefs have games against Texans, Colts, Jags, Titans and then four more games against or two more games I should say Cowboys, Giants. There's six games they win. They go five and one in the division every year. There's your 11 games. And so then let's say they only go four and two in the division this year. So now you're at 10. That would mean of the following games, Detroit, Baltimore, Buffalo, Philly, Washington. He's got to win two of them. And so I the betting the Chiefs over every year since Mahomes has been there, hell since Andy's been there. But it's been super profitable since mom's been there. They've hit it six of seven years. The only year they didn't hit it was two years ago and they made up for that by winning the Super Bowl. So yeah, I'm not the Chiefs. That's an over.
- [64:08]
Damanze
The Chiefs face the Eagles next year and it's going to be in Kansas City. What winning the season. Would you want to see that game? When would you want that?
- [64:20]
Nick Wright
Great question.
- [64:22]
Damanze
First game of the season?
- [64:23]
Nick Wright
No, because.
- [64:25]
Damanze
Just like they did the Ravens.
- [64:27]
Nick Wright
No, because the Chiefs don't get to. Well, first of all, that can't happen because the Eagles are the defending champs. They get to host the, you know, season opener on Thursday. So it can't be the first game of the year. Here's what I don't care when it is. I just want both teams to be on regular rest. I don't want one team to be coming off a weird schedule. I, you know what the, whatever it is, there are some rumors the the that the Chiefs could start the year in Brazil. But I, so I don't know. But just, I just want both teams on regular rest. All right. By the way, you know what? Let's do this. Before we get to the rest of the AFC West, I want to talk to you guys about our friends at DraftKings who's scoring big in the NBA this season? You are with all the new ways to get on the action at DraftKings sportsbook, an official sports betting partner of the NBA Monster slams Dish in the Rock to cleaning the glass. Get behind your favorite players and the prop bets you can make on DraftKings, the home of NBA player props. Ready to place your first bet? Try betting on something simple like picking how many points your favorite player will have. Go to the DraftKings sportsbook app and make your pick. So some of the lines that are available tonight. Jason Tatum's total 25 and a half against the Knicks. Assuming Tatum plays. I, you know I would be leaning Tatum over 25 and a half points and then also another one Jimmy Butler. His total is at 17 and a half against Phoenix. Jimmy has not been popping off for big point totals thus far. However, I just saw the Suns in person and I they don't seem that interested in defense. So you know, I would me personally, I would be go I would be thinking Butler over 17 and a half points. Again, it's not betting advice. It's just how I look at those two lines. Lines and odds subject to change. First time here's something special just for you new DraftKings customers. Bet $5 get $150 in bonus bets instantly. Take it to the rack with DraftKings sportsbook. Every point counts and this one helps me out a lot. Guys. If you guys can do this, download the DraftKings sportsbook app. Use code WRIGHT W R I G H T. That's code WRIGHT for new customers to get 150 in bonus bets. When you bet just five bucks only on DraftKings, the crown is yours. Gambling problem. Call 1-800- gambler in New York, call 877-8-HOPE NY or text HOPE NY, which is 467-369 in Connecticut. Help is available for problem gambling. Call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org Please play responsibly on behalf of Boot Hill Casino and Resort in Kansas. 21 plus. Age and eligibility varies by jurisdiction. Void. In Ontario, bonus bets expire 168 hours after issuance. For additional terms and responsible gaming resources. C DKNG CO B Ball what's up, everyone?
- [68:01]
Greg Rosenthal
It's Greg Rosenthal, and I'm teaming up with the King of Spring, Daniel Jeremiah. He requires me to say that we're going to be bringing you 40s and free agents, the only podcast you'll need this NFL Draft season. From DJs, mock drafts to my top 101 free agents will have it covered for you with all new episodes every Thursday, keeping you up to date as we head to the NFL Draft. Listen to 40s and free agents on the I iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast.
- [68:30]
Julie Stewart-Banks
It's Julie Stewart Banks. I'm doing a new podcast from iHeart Podcasts and the National Hockey League, and I'm paired up with one of my favorite players, the always quotable Nate Thompson.
- [68:39]
Nate Thompson
I wore nine NHL sweaters and I have story after story to share. And believe it or not, I have plenty to say. And not just about hockey.
- [68:47]
Julie Stewart-Banks
Believe me, he does. Energy Line with Nate and JS B is the name of the podcast and it's gonna be, well, it's gonna be quite the ride. We're officially linemates, Nate. We're the Energy Line.
- [68:59]
Nate Thompson
We'll have plenty of folks join us, current players, some of my former teammates, hall of Famers, and wait to see some of the connections that Julie has. She has quite the Rolodex.
- [69:08]
Julie Stewart-Banks
Okay, we'll lean into Nate's playing experience and tap into our interests away from hockey and try to do it. Energy lines are supposed to provide an emotional boost. How do you feel about all that, Nate?
- [69:20]
Nate Thompson
I'm vibing Julie, I'm ready to roll.
- [69:23]
Julie Stewart-Banks
Listen to Energy Line with Nate and jsb on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.
- [69:30]
Israel Gutierrez
I'm Israel Gutierrez and I'm hosting a new podcast, Dub Dynasty, the story of how the Golden State warriors have dominated the NBA for over a decade.
- [69:40]
Nick Wright
The Golden State warriors once again are NBA champions.
- [69:45]
Israel Gutierrez
From the building of the corps that included Klay Thompson and Draymond Green to one of the boldest coaching decisions in the history of the sport, I just.
- [69:53]
Nick Wright
Felt like the biggest thing was to earn the trust of the players and let the players know that we were here to try to help them take the next step, not tear anything down.
- [70:01]
Israel Gutierrez
Today, the warriors dynasty remains alive in large part because of a scrawny 6 foot 2 hooper who everyone seems to.
- [70:08]
Nick Wright
Love for what Steph has done for the game. He's certainly on that like Mount Rushmore for guys that have changed it.
- [70:14]
Israel Gutierrez
Come revisit this magical warriors ride. This is Dove Dynasty.
- [70:19]
Nick Wright
The Dubs dynasty is still very much alive.
- [70:23]
Israel Gutierrez
Listen to Dub Dynasty on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.
- [70:34]
Mel Reid
Hey, this is Mel Reed, LPGA Tour winner and six time Ladies European Tour.
- [70:39]
Kyra K. Dixon
Winner and Kyra K. Dixon, NBC Sports reporter and host.
- [70:42]
Mel Reid
You forgot to say warmer. Miss America, by the way. And we've got a new podcast, Quiet Please with Mel and Kira.
- [70:49]
Kyra K. Dixon
We are bringing you spicy takes on sports and pop culture, some golf haps and interviews with incredible people who have figured out how to make golf their.
- [70:57]
Mel Reid
Superpower or just people we like. Plus tales from the road and everything in between. By the way, golf isn't just for the dads, brads and chads.
- [71:04]
Kyra K. Dixon
Yeah, it's actually life's cheat code and we're not going to be quiet about it on or off the course. We're bringing on some of our friends like Michelle We, Heather McMahon, Amanda Baliotis.
- [71:15]
Mel Reid
So if you want to keep up with us, and here is yap, tune into our new podcast, Listen to Quiet.
- [71:20]
Kyra K. Dixon
Please with Mel and Kyra. An iHeart women's sports production in partnership with Deep Blue Sports and Entertainment. You can find us on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Presented by Capital One, founding partner of iHeart Women's Sports.
- [71:34]
Nick Wright
All right, Demons A let's go back to the AFC West. We just did the Chiefs over 11 and a half. Give me the last few.
- [71:42]
Damanze
We got the Chargers. They're over. Under is nine and a half, so.
- [71:47]
Nick Wright
And I'M going to lump the Broncos in with them as well. They're also at nine and a half. To me, both of these are stay aways. I think both of these are going to be very trendy bets. I think a lot of people are going to like either or both of these teams to hit double digit wins. They both hit it last year. They both made the playoffs last year. I now they have the same benefit the Chiefs have which is the in it the AFC south and the NFC East. But I think people are a little too high on the Chargers who I don't think are going to have the turnover numbers they had last year and I think people are a little too high on Bo Nicks now. Again, if I thought people were way, way off I'd be saying go under. But I think both, I think both those teams are going to be hovering around at the end of the year. 8, 9, 10 wins so I would stay away. And then that gives us the Raiders to Monze.
- [72:49]
Damanze
And they're over and under six and a half.
- [72:53]
Nick Wright
I love the over for the Las Vegas Raiders. I know that probably shocks people but when you combine the following things they had a bottom three coach last year. They replace him with the top 10 coach and Pete Carroll. They had a bottom three quarterback situation. They replace him with top 12 quarterback and Geno Smith. They have a last place schedule. They are going to be able to draft an impact player at number six Pete. I think maybe Ashton Genty. Pete Carroll wants to win. Right now everyone is going to be all over the Broncos or the Chargers. I think it's the Raiders that could finish second in the AFC West. I think the I think Pete Carroll has the Raiders fighting for the final wild card spot in the AFC in year one. I like the Raiders over six and a half so my AFC bets that I like Patriots under eight and a half jets over five and a half Steelers under eight and a half Ravens over eleven and a half Jags over seven and a half Titans under five and a half, Chiefs over eleven and a half and the Las Vegas Raiders under six and a half in the least surprising news ever. Damanze I went way too long and we're going to do the NFC on Thursday so I I don't want to rush through the NFC but yeah, you know what I mean. Yeah. Yeah. We have a ton more to go so we'll I liked how we did this. Do some NBA news and everything Thursday to start the show then do the over unders for the second half of the show. I thought that worked well. And so afc, we just gave them to you. Nfc, we will do on Thursday. Let's ask some listener questions. Damanze, you have a question?
- [75:09]
Damanze
Well, yeah, I mean, I saw on Twitter that they were bringing back direwolves. I hit Daniel up about this and said it should go somewhere else in the show. It was really bad take, but I think it's. What's going on? I don't know.
- [75:22]
Nick Wright
What's the take? Let me hear your take.
- [75:24]
Damanze
I think that's insane that they're. That they're messing with stuff like that. I don't know what reason we would have for it unless it's like, beneficial for the. I don't know.
- [75:35]
Nick Wright
So that's not. It's not a bad. It's not a bad take. That's. First of all. Second of all, hand up. Not afraid to admit things. I thought direwolves were always make believe. I didn't know that was a thing. I knew they were in Game of Thrones, but I thought they were make believe, like dragons. Like, I thought it was just something from fantasy. I didn't know. Like, I obviously knew. Well, that's a separate discussion. There is. Were. Did dragons ever exist? Is not as dumb of a question as some people think. I will say that. But set that aside. I. I obviously knew, like, you know, like woolly mammoths existed and the Megalodon existed. I didn't know that horse sized wolves existed.
- [76:29]
Damanze
Right.
- [76:29]
Nick Wright
I thought that was purely from Game of Thrones. So I know that this is a little Jurassic park ish and that didn't go well, but I think it would be sick, man, if we could reanimate some of the giant animal life from world history and put it on an island somewhere and let them and. And like, see it. As long as they can't fly, man. As long as they can't fly and can't swim. I think that'd be. I. I'd love to see a dire wolf. I think that'd be awesome. I also didn't know they existed. I. I get it's a little scary. I understand.
- [77:17]
Damanze
Yeah.
- [77:17]
Nick Wright
And I'm not necessarily for the dinosaurs coming back neither.
- [77:21]
Damanze
I mean, I just saw like, I don't think it was a pterodactyl. There was a specific name for it, but the beak was probably about as long as this room. And like, just to imagine that thing was in the air, like, people have not grown up.
- [77:34]
Nick Wright
The producer asking I was stop watching Jurassic park after 40 minutes. They made a lot of grievous errors There and creating the ones that can fly. Obvious. The fly and swim ones are. To me, that's a big mistake. But we. If we had. I. I keep reading about these islands that no people live on that we just added tariffs to. I didn't even know about these islands. Head island and the place all the penguins live or whatever. There's these islands that no one lives on. What if we reanimated them there? I'm not against it. Hayes asks a question that, you know, people have been wondering, so go ahead.
- [78:15]
Damanze
Hey, Nick, Are you still training for the triathlon? And if so, when is it scheduled for? That's over.
- [78:20]
Nick Wright
It's not yet scheduled. It's not over. It's not over. My training has hit a hiccup, I will admit, but I've got a lot of time. I've got a lot of time. And so am I as gung ho as I was? Not quite. But all your mom has been bullying me because we have this family trip scheduled for early July. Yeah. And she's been going to the gym every single day, and she just comes home and body shames me. And her latest thing is she is just convinced that she is stronger than me. Like we were. I know. So, like, yesterday we just bought a new couch, and it's getting delivered today. So yesterday we reorganized the living room, and so I had to, like, move around the chairs and everything. And every chance she got, she was just like, oh, do you need me to move that? Is that too heavy for you? Like, just constant bullying.
- [79:32]
Nate Thompson
Right.
- [79:32]
Damanze
For the manhood. That. That is all below the belt. But, you know, what's. What's new with. With my mother.
- [79:38]
Nick Wright
Yeah. All right, go to Chris's question.
- [79:41]
Damanze
Chris says, how do you predict win totals of the schedules? Ain't even out yet. You got to factor in weeknight games, consecutive road trips, et cetera.
- [79:50]
Nick Wright
No. So that's fair. Like, we know who people are playing. We don't know when they're playing. So that's why I said these are. I think there were only two that I said I'm betting right now. One is the Patriots. I don't care if The Patriots got 17 home games. They're not winning none. And so I like the Patriots under. But you're right, you do have the factor, like, rest advantage, things like that. But we do know who everyone's playing. We just don't know when those games are. So I think. But it. You know, so I. It's a fair point, But I think NFL's done a really good job of making schedule release feel like a huge event even though we already know who everyone's playing. All right everybody like Rate Subscribe Review Please do. That helps us out. We will see you guys on Thursday. Great job demons. A great job. Everyone at Blue duck, everyone at DraftKings, everyone at the volume. We appreciate you all. Talk to you guys soon. What's right?
- [80:46]
Greg Rosenthal
What's up everyone? It's Greg Rosenthal and I'm teaming up with the King of Spring, Daniel Jeremiah. He requires me to say that we're going to be bringing you 40s and free agents, the only podcast you'll need this NFL draft season. From DJs mock drafts to my top 101 free agents, we'll have it covered for you with all new episodes every Thursday keeping you up to date as we head to the NFL Draft. Listen to 40s and free agents on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcast.
- [81:15]
Mel Reid
This is Mel Reed, LPG Tour winner and six time Ladies European Tour winner.
- [81:20]
Kyra K. Dixon
And Kira K. Dixon, NBC Sports Reporter.
- [81:23]
Mel Reid
And we've got a new podcast, Quiet Please with Mel and Kira.
- [81:27]
Kyra K. Dixon
We are bringing you spicy takes on sports and pop culture, some interviews with incredible people who have figured out how to make golf their superpower, and iheart.
- [81:35]
Mel Reid
Wins Sports Production in partnership with Deep Blue Sports and Entertainment. You can find us on iHeartRadio app or wherever you get your podcasts.
- [81:42]
Kyra K. Dixon
Presented by Elf Beauty, founding partner of iHeart Women's Sports.
- [81:46]
Nick Wright
Tickets are on sale now y'all for our 2025 I Heart Country Festival presented by Capital One Half, happening Saturday, May 3rd at the Moody center in Austin, Texas. Don't miss your chance to see Brooks and Dunn, Thomas Rhett, Rascal Flash, Cole Swindell, Sam Hutt, Megan Maroney, Bailey Zimmerman, Nate Smith. Tickets are on sale now@ticketmaster.com I'm Israel.
- [82:16]
Israel Gutierrez
Gutierrez and I'm hosting a new podcast, Dub Dynasty, the story of how the Golden State warriors have dominated the NBA for over a decade.
- [82:24]
Nick Wright
The Golden State warriors once again are NBA champions today.
- [82:29]
Israel Gutierrez
The warriors dynasty remains alive in large part because of a scrawny 6 foot 2 hooper who everyone seems to love.
- [82:36]
Nick Wright
For what Steph has done for the game. He's certainly on that Mount Rushmore.
- [82:40]
Israel Gutierrez
Come revisit this magical warriors ride. Listen to Dub Dynasty on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcast.