The Stephen A. Smith Show Episode: Stephen A's Take: Stephen A responds to Draymond Green's Negative All-Star Game Comments
Release Date: February 19, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show, host Stephen A. Smith delves into Draymond Green's controversial remarks following the All-Star Game. Smith provides a comprehensive analysis of Green's comments, the current state of the Golden State Warriors, and the broader implications for the team's championship aspirations. Throughout the discussion, Smith interweaves his seasoned insights on player dynamics, team strategy, and the competitive landscape of the NBA.

Draymond Green's All-Star Weekend Comments

The episode kicks off with Stephen A. addressing Draymond Green's post-All-Star Weekend statements. Green, speaking from outside the Chase Center, expressed unwavering confidence in the Warriors' championship prospects.

Stephen A. Smith [01:10]: "I don't think they're gonna win."

Smith scrutinizes Green's optimism, suggesting that such bold declarations might be overstated given the current team dynamics and competition level.

Evaluation of Jimmy Butler's Impact

A significant portion of the discussion centers on Jimmy Butler's role in the team. Smith contrasts Butler's contributions with those of Andrew Wiggins and his brothers, highlighting Butler's unique ability to influence both offense and defense.

Smith [02:00]: "Jimmy Butler does bring a different dimension than Andrew Wiggins and those brothers brought. He gets to the free throw line. Got to the free throw. He's only been there four games. Got to the free throw lines 40 times."

Smith emphasizes how Butler's presence at the free throw line disrupts the opposing team's flow, providing strategic rest opportunities for Stephen Curry. This dynamic, according to Smith, positions the Warriors favorably in high-stakes games.

Smith [02:30]: "That stalls the action. That gives Steph Curry an opportunity to rest, which means that when you're running the flow of your offense and this brother's getting loose, looking to launch, you got them in a better position."

Furthermore, Smith commends Butler's defensive prowess, aligning him with Green to bolster the team's defensive capabilities.

Smith [02:50]: "Jimmy Butler defends as well. So Jimmy Butler defends along with Draymond Green."

Golden State Warriors' Championship Prospects

Transitioning to the Warriors' championship odds, Smith offers a candid assessment of the team's strengths and weaknesses. He expresses skepticism about the Warriors' ability to overcome formidable teams such as Oklahoma City (OKC), Dallas, and Denver, citing concerns over health and team synergy.

Smith [03:10]: "I don't think Golden State could be OKC. I don't think they could beat a healthy Dallas. I don't believe they could be the healthy Denver."

However, Smith sees a glimmer of hope in a matchup against a healthy Los Angeles Lakers team, acknowledging LeBron James' offensive capabilities while also noting the Lakers' size as a counterbalance.

Smith [03:25]: "I think they got a chance against a healthy LA because it's LeBron and Luke offensively, but the Lakers got some size on them. But I don't know. I think they could beat the Lakers."

The Role of Draymond Green and Team Morale

Smith highlights Draymond Green's influence on the team's morale and competitiveness, especially in the latter part of the NBA season.

Smith [04:00]: "One thing I will say about Draymond, he has made the latter part of this NBA season, these last 27 games very interesting. Very interesting because you know he's gonna go out there trying to back it up."

He underscores Green's commitment to proving his and the team's capabilities, aligning this drive with Steph Curry's readiness to support Green's vision.

Smith [04:20]: "Steph Curry said he ain't had no problem with what Draymond said, so he's ready to back it up. And you know Jimmy Buckets ain't backing down from no damn body."

Coaching and Strategic Adjustments

Addressing the coaching aspect, Smith acknowledges Steve Kerr's role in navigating the team's strategies amidst the evolving competition.

Smith [04:40]: "So it's about to get and Steve Kerr can coach his ass off. So it's about to get very, very interesting."

Smith anticipates that Kerr's coaching acumen will be pivotal in leveraging the team's strengths and mitigating weaknesses as they vie for the championship title.

Conclusion

In wrapping up the episode, Stephen A. Smith presents a nuanced perspective on Draymond Green's comments and the Golden State Warriors' championship potential. While recognizing the team's formidable talent and strategic advantages, Smith remains cautiously skeptical about their ability to triumph over other top-tier teams. His analysis underscores the importance of player dynamics, health, and strategic coaching in the high-stakes environment of the NBA playoffs.

Notable Quotes:

• Stephen A. Smith [01:10]: "I don't think they're gonna win."
• Smith [02:00]: "Jimmy Butler does bring a different dimension than Andrew Wiggins and those brothers brought."
• Smith [02:30]: "That stalls the action. That gives Steph Curry an opportunity to rest..."
• Smith [03:10]: "I don't think Golden State could be OKC. I don't think they could beat a healthy Dallas."
• Smith [04:00]: "Draymond has made the latter part of this NBA season... very interesting."
• Smith [04:40]: "Steve Kerr can coach his ass off. So it's about to get very, very interesting."

Key Takeaways:

• Draymond Green's Confidence: While Green exudes confidence about the Warriors' championship chances, Smith encourages a more tempered outlook based on team dynamics and competition.

• Jimmy Butler's Strategic Impact: Butler's ability to control the free throw line and strong defense are pivotal in enhancing the Warriors' offensive flow and defensive solidity.

• Championship Odds: The Warriors face stiff competition from teams like OKC, Dallas, and Denver, though a matchup against the Lakers presents a more viable path to the title.

• Team Morale and Coaching: Green's leadership and Kerr's coaching strategies are crucial elements that will influence the Warriors' performance in the concluding stages of the season.

This episode offers listeners a deep dive into the intricate factors influencing the Golden State Warriors' quest for excellence, blending expert analysis with Stephen A. Smith's trademark candor.