Summary of The Pat McAfee Show - PMS 2.0 1372
Release Date: July 1, 2025
Introduction
In episode 1372 of "The Pat McAfee Show," host Pat McAfee, alongside co-hosts AJ Hawk, the Toxic Table, and Tone Digs, delves into a wide array of sports topics. The episode features insightful discussions on the NHL's future with Commissioner Gary Bettman, groundbreaking NBA contracts, exciting NFL trades, and an exclusive interview with actor Glenn Powell about his latest film. The lively banter and expert analysis make this episode a comprehensive guide for sports enthusiasts.
NHL Insights with Commissioner Gary Bettman
State of the NHL and Early CBA Agreement (17:52)
Pat McAfee welcomes Gary Bettman, the NHL Commissioner, highlighting the league's recent successes and the completion of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) negotiations a year ahead of schedule. Bettman expresses optimism about the NHL's growth, citing high ratings and successful draft outcomes.
Gary Bettman (17:57): "We've had an agreement in principle subject to ratification both by the players and by the teams."
Growth and Fan Engagement (19:36)
Bettman discusses the NHL's consistent upward trajectory over the past three decades, emphasizing the impact of international competitions like the Four Nations tournament and outdoor games in boosting the sport's popularity in America.
Gary Bettman (19:36): "Players represent their countries with full commitment, showcasing the true spirit and passion that makes hockey great."
Dynasties and Competitive Balance (22:42)
The conversation shifts to the Florida Panthers’ back-to-back Stanley Cup victories. Bettman acknowledges the challenges and praises the team's management and chemistry.
Gary Bettman (22:42): "Whether or not dynasties are good or bad, my view in sports is it is what it is."
Expansion Plans and Future Growth (27:04)
Bettman touches on potential NHL expansion, mentioning cities like Indianapolis and Cincinnati but emphasizes that the league is not actively seeking new teams at the moment. He ensures that the current 32-team structure is robust and well-supported.
Gary Bettman (27:04): "We're not focusing on expanding right now. If it's going right, it'll be right."
International Growth and World Cup of Hockey (30:27)
Bettman outlines plans for alternating between the Olympics and the World Cup of Hockey every two years, aiming to provide regular international best-on-best competition and further elevate the sport's global presence.
NBA Highlights: SGA's Historic Contract and Major Moves
Stephen A. Smith's Record-Breaking Contract (01:41)
The episode celebrates Stephen A. Smith (SGA) securing a historic $71.25 million annual contract, marking him as the highest-paid athlete in sports history.
Pat McAfee (01:41): "Congratulations to NBA champion, NBA MVP, Finals MVP, and now the new highest-paid player in the history of sport. $71.25 million a year…"
Darius Butler on SGA’s Impact (03:24)
NFL veteran Darius J. Butler praises SGA’s performance and anticipates more high-value contracts in the NBA.
Darius J. Butler (03:24): "He moves the needle. He had a dominant season… There'll be more deals like this right down the line."
Devin Booker's Contract Extension (04:03)
The discussion highlights Devin Booker's upcoming two-year, $150 million contract extension, positioning him as one of the top earners in the league.
Darius J. Butler (04:03): "Congrats to him… He's earned it as well."
Brook Lopez’s Transfer to the Clippers (11:00)
Boston Conner breaks down Brook Lopez’s significant move to the Los Angeles Clippers, analyzing its impact on both the Clippers and the Lakers.
Boston Conner (11:00): "Brook Lopez and James Harden are going to be a dynamic duo. Tough situation there to start but we…"
NFL Segment: Player Trades and Future Contracts
Darren Waller’s Move to Miami Dolphins (46:43)
Darius Butler discusses the strategic trade of Darren Waller to the Miami Dolphins, highlighting its potential impact on both teams.
Pat McAfee (46:43): "Congratulations to the Dolphins bringing in a player as opposed to sending players away. Darren Waller…"
Future of Quarterback Contracts (74:07)
The hosts explore the possibility of the NFL adopting a supermax tier for quarterbacks, similar to the NBA, to allow elite QBs to secure more favorable contracts without heavily impacting the salary cap.
Darius J. Butler (16:51): "He's going to be a force in the defensive end in the paint…"
Exclusive Interview with Actor Glenn Powell
Discussing "The Running Man" (83:00 - 87:49)
Glenn Powell shares insights about his role in the upcoming movie "The Running Man," directed by Edgar Wright. He discusses the physical preparation required for action roles and his admiration for the original film starring Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Glenn Powell (83:43): "Getting like in Top Gun, you learn that you have to improve upon it, update it to modern sensibilities."
Powell highlights the challenges of performing stunts and his excitement about working with acclaimed director Edgar Wright.
Glenn Powell (84:14): "There's a level of commitment you take in action movies that really bends your limits."
Baseball Highlights: Pittsburgh Pirates’ Hot Streak
Pirates’ Four Straight Wins (62:45)
The hosts celebrate the Pittsburgh Pirates’ impressive four-game winning streak, comparing their performance to historic teams like the Chicago White Sox.
Pat McAfee (62:45): "The Pirates are playing like out of this world…"
Additional Topics
Automotive and NASCAR:
The conversation reminisces about NASCAR legends like Dale Earnhardt Sr., expressing nostalgia for the sport's aggressive past compared to its current state.
Lacrosse Concerns:
Boston Conner discusses the uncertain future of professional lacrosse leagues, highlighting the challenges faced by the NLL and PLL in gaining mainstream traction.
Soccer’s Gold Cup and International Competitions:
The show covers the excitement surrounding the Gold Cup, the USA’s strong performance, and upcoming international matches featuring top teams like Mexico and Belgium.
UFC Updates:
Discussion about rising UFC stars like Ilya Topuria, his recent fights, and his potential trajectory towards becoming a GOAT contender.
Conclusion
Pat McAfee wraps up the episode by celebrating the sports achievements and insights shared throughout the show. He expresses enthusiasm for upcoming events and extends congratulations to guests and athletes making significant strides in their respective fields.
Notable Quotes
- Pat McAfee (01:41): “Congratulations to SGA on $71.25 million a year…"
- Darius J. Butler (03:24): “He moves the needle…"
- Gary Bettman (27:04): “We're not focusing on expanding right now…”
- Glenn Powell (83:43): “We had a very impactful and meaningful draft…”
Overall Impression
Episode 1372 of "The Pat McAfee Show" offers a vibrant mix of in-depth sports analysis, milestone achievements, and engaging interviews. From the NHL’s promising future under Bettman’s leadership to the NBA’s record-breaking contracts and exciting NFL trades, the episode provides comprehensive coverage of major sports narratives. The exclusive interview with Glenn Powell adds a unique entertainment angle, bridging sports and Hollywood. The lively interactions and expert opinions make this episode both informative and entertaining for listeners.