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Thanks for listening to The Herd podcast. Be sure to catch us live every weekday on Fox Sports Radio in noon to three Eastern nine am to noon Pacific. Find your local station for The Herd at Fox Sports Radio dot com, or stream us live every day on the iHeartRadio app by searching Fox Sports Radio or FSR.

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Welcome back. This guy was so good last time we were on the show. We had to bring him back. Jovon Buhaf for the athletic covers the Lakers totally knows all the ins and outs. He was there at the Rehddick press conference where Reddick.

Welcome back. This guy was so good last time we were on the show. We had to bring him back. Jovon Buhaf for the athletic covers the Lakers totally knows all the ins and outs. He was there at the Rehddick press conference where Reddick.

Kind of dropped the mic and left.

Kind of dropped the mic and left.

I was asking during the commercial break, so how heavy is Luca and He's like, well, you can't. Can't ask a guys. Wait, I know, I know, but all right, Yovan. So disappointing end of the Lakers season. Not a lot of people saw it coming. I'm curious after that Game five loss, just another depressing close one. Did the Lakers really address what the hell happened in the final four minutes of the last three games, like they could not close out any of those.

I was asking during the commercial break, so how heavy is Luca and He's like, well, you can't. Can't ask a guys. Wait, I know, I know, but all right, Yovan. So disappointing end of the Lakers season. Not a lot of people saw it coming. I'm curious after that Game five loss, just another depressing close one. Did the Lakers really address what the hell happened in the final four minutes of the last three games, like they could not close out any of those.

No, they didn't.

No, they didn't.

I mean I think JJ Reddick's comments yesterday at the exit interview of them needing to get into championship shape what we're telling, and.

I mean I think JJ Reddick's comments yesterday at the exit interview of them needing to get into championship shape what we're telling, and.

I think there's an element of that.

I think there's an element of that.

I believe they were outscored one twenty seven to eighty five in the five fourth quarters in this series, so an average of about eight points per game in the fourth quarter. Even the game they won they only scored it was actually their worst fourth quarter. They scored thirteen points and let Minnesota back into it. And like, there are several moments in that game where if Minnesota just hits a three, wide open three that they had a lot of them, they win that game, or you potentially push it into like a one possession game. So they just ran out of gas in all fourth quarter or five fourth quarters. And we saw specially in Game four, backs against the Wall, facing a three to one series deficit, JJ Reddick goes with five guys down the stretch and it was.

I believe they were outscored one twenty seven to eighty five in the five fourth quarters in this series, so an average of about eight points per game in the fourth quarter. Even the game they won they only scored it was actually their worst fourth quarter. They scored thirteen points and let Minnesota back into it. And like, there are several moments in that game where if Minnesota just hits a three, wide open three that they had a lot of them, they win that game, or you potentially push it into like a one possession game. So they just ran out of gas in all fourth quarter or five fourth quarters. And we saw specially in Game four, backs against the Wall, facing a three to one series deficit, JJ Reddick goes with five guys down the stretch and it was.

Like, I think they just kind of ran out of guys.

Like, I think they just kind of ran out of guys.

So here's my thing, Like let's say I think they led by ten or something like that in the third heading into the fourth of that game. This idea that like, hey, we could do Gabe Vincent steal two minutes like that, that's just not realistic, is it? Like? What are two minutes going to do for a breather for Lebron or Luca? Do you think do you think Reddick botched it? I don't.

So here's my thing, Like let's say I think they led by ten or something like that in the third heading into the fourth of that game. This idea that like, hey, we could do Gabe Vincent steal two minutes like that, that's just not realistic, is it? Like? What are two minutes going to do for a breather for Lebron or Luca? Do you think do you think Reddick botched it? I don't.

I think it's it's semi defensible.

I think it's it's semi defensible.

Now, when whenever you do something that no one has done in NBA history and you lose, then you got the backlash.

Now, when whenever you do something that no one has done in NBA history and you lose, then you got the backlash.

But they were thirty seconds awa.

But they were thirty seconds awa.

I remember Luca gets tripped by Jada McDaniels and we can debate whether that was actually a trip or not.

I remember Luca gets tripped by Jada McDaniels and we can debate whether that was actually a trip or not.

The NBA ruled that it was a trip. It was a mistake.

The NBA ruled that it was a trip. It was a mistake.

It was the only incorrect call on the NBA's last two minute report for that game. So if Luca gets tripped, the Lakers don't lose that timeout, they don't turn the ball over on the next possession. He goes to the free throw line for two free throws. They're down one. He makes at least one. I think he probably makes both. Now they're up one thirty seconds left. They just need to get a stop to even the series at two too, So that was a sliding doors moment for that series. But yeah, I mean, obviously did not go like down the stretch of that one that they had several just Game five. Also, yeah, Minnesota went seven for forty seven from three. It was the worst three point percentage in a win in playoff history. The Lakers still couldn't win that game.

It was the only incorrect call on the NBA's last two minute report for that game. So if Luca gets tripped, the Lakers don't lose that timeout, they don't turn the ball over on the next possession. He goes to the free throw line for two free throws. They're down one. He makes at least one. I think he probably makes both. Now they're up one thirty seconds left. They just need to get a stop to even the series at two too, So that was a sliding doors moment for that series. But yeah, I mean, obviously did not go like down the stretch of that one that they had several just Game five. Also, yeah, Minnesota went seven for forty seven from three. It was the worst three point percentage in a win in playoff history. The Lakers still couldn't win that game.

So does that lead credence to the point that hey, JJ messed up and they should have rested their guys or is it like, hey, man, if they put in Vanderbilt for five minutes, Yeah, the lead's gonna not only evaporate, they're gonna be trailing anyway.

So does that lead credence to the point that hey, JJ messed up and they should have rested their guys or is it like, hey, man, if they put in Vanderbilt for five minutes, Yeah, the lead's gonna not only evaporate, they're gonna be trailing anyway.

Yeah, I think he probably should have found a spot to get a breather for some of those guys. Now, if they played twenty minutes or twenty one minutes each, I don't think we're talking about this. We're just saying he played his guy's heavy minutes, and that typically happened. Like Tom Timodeau is known for playing his guys heavy minutes. It's just he did it and it didn't work. So now we're talking about it, we're looking at it. Also, he's coaching the Lakers, where there's just an extra level of scrutiny. Now, he did try to go to Gabe Vinson late in the third quarter. That's something that that kind of doesn't get talked about. Was Gabe was at the scorers table. Then there was no dead ball for a while, so like a minute left, he was like, all right, just go back to the bench, let's close it out. I think you could have done something where Gabe's in there for like four or five minutes, You're rotating Luca and Lebron and Austin, maybe getting them each like one to two minutes of rest. But I don't know if that ultimately was the difference with I.

Yeah, I think he probably should have found a spot to get a breather for some of those guys. Now, if they played twenty minutes or twenty one minutes each, I don't think we're talking about this. We're just saying he played his guy's heavy minutes, and that typically happened. Like Tom Timodeau is known for playing his guys heavy minutes. It's just he did it and it didn't work. So now we're talking about it, we're looking at it. Also, he's coaching the Lakers, where there's just an extra level of scrutiny. Now, he did try to go to Gabe Vinson late in the third quarter. That's something that that kind of doesn't get talked about. Was Gabe was at the scorers table. Then there was no dead ball for a while, so like a minute left, he was like, all right, just go back to the bench, let's close it out. I think you could have done something where Gabe's in there for like four or five minutes, You're rotating Luca and Lebron and Austin, maybe getting them each like one to two minutes of rest. But I don't know if that ultimately was the difference with I.

Mean, we don't want to get too nitty gritty, but was Conley off the floor? Who's Gabe? Vincent Garding? You can't say in front of Ant they can't guard Jade McDaniels or any Randall killed him. So how much of this is the Lakers were hot in the regular season with Luca Lebron, they killed some bad teams, and we got just too excited being while they couldn't execute down the stretch. Because how many times did Dorian Finney Smith, Lebron and Luca share the floor during the season, Like, it couldn't have been that many minutes.

Mean, we don't want to get too nitty gritty, but was Conley off the floor? Who's Gabe? Vincent Garding? You can't say in front of Ant they can't guard Jade McDaniels or any Randall killed him. So how much of this is the Lakers were hot in the regular season with Luca Lebron, they killed some bad teams, and we got just too excited being while they couldn't execute down the stretch. Because how many times did Dorian Finney Smith, Lebron and Luca share the floor during the season, Like, it couldn't have been that many minutes.

Right, So the pushback I'll have with This is just that I think the Lakers that there was some legitimacy, like second best home record in the West that matters, right, second best record against the conference, both only behind ok See in terms of home record and conference records. So like they had plenty of big wins. They beat oka See, remember that that doubleheader a ok See they beat, They blew them out the first time, and they were up when Luca got ejected, which that was also rescinded. Remember that the Tech got rescinded. He shouldn't have been ejected. So they have a couple of these losses here where like something happens with Luca that's a little controversial and it goes against them. But they also had they beat Houston down the stretch, they beat Memphis, they beat Dallas, and the Luca return games. So like there were some kernels there of them having some statement wins down the stretch.

Right, So the pushback I'll have with This is just that I think the Lakers that there was some legitimacy, like second best home record in the West that matters, right, second best record against the conference, both only behind ok See in terms of home record and conference records. So like they had plenty of big wins. They beat oka See, remember that that doubleheader a ok See they beat, They blew them out the first time, and they were up when Luca got ejected, which that was also rescinded. Remember that the Tech got rescinded. He shouldn't have been ejected. So they have a couple of these losses here where like something happens with Luca that's a little controversial and it goes against them. But they also had they beat Houston down the stretch, they beat Memphis, they beat Dallas, and the Luca return games. So like there were some kernels there of them having some statement wins down the stretch.

They earned the number three seed. They won fifty games.

They earned the number three seed. They won fifty games.

So like while I think it's easy now in retrospect to pick at some of the weaknesses, like they did have a successful regular season, it just I think they ranted to a team that had all the things that they didn't have in terms of size, athleticism, and depth, and they lost them five.

So like while I think it's easy now in retrospect to pick at some of the weaknesses, like they did have a successful regular season, it just I think they ranted to a team that had all the things that they didn't have in terms of size, athleticism, and depth, and they lost them five.

So a lot of people are making jokes, now, hey, Lebron's gonna take Luca's passport, cannot go overseas, Gotta say.

So a lot of people are making jokes, now, hey, Lebron's gonna take Luca's passport, cannot go overseas, Gotta say.

Here, be healthy and set up to a fat farm.

Here, be healthy and set up to a fat farm.

All these jokes. I listen, I don't want to go overboard. He did look a little overweight, but I didn't think his defense was that bad. I mean, it was a great binding stretch. Wasn't really boxing out. Is it possible he just wasn't healthy or am I making excuses?

All these jokes. I listen, I don't want to go overboard. He did look a little overweight, but I didn't think his defense was that bad. I mean, it was a great binding stretch. Wasn't really boxing out. Is it possible he just wasn't healthy or am I making excuses?

I think there's several elements here of I don't know if you ever got fully right from talking people around him and just around the team.

I think there's several elements here of I don't know if you ever got fully right from talking people around him and just around the team.

In terms of that.

In terms of that.

Calf strain that he suffered that caused him to miss six weeks, which is the longest injury he's had in.

Calf strain that he suffered that caused him to miss six weeks, which is the longest injury he's had in.

His basketball career, you know.

His basketball career, you know.

Between him going from Dallas to LA I think clearly from a conditioning perspective, he needs to get in better shape and the defense needs to be better.

Between him going from Dallas to LA I think clearly from a conditioning perspective, he needs to get in better shape and the defense needs to be better.

I think JJ. I mean many.

I think JJ. I mean many.

People took that championship shape comment at as a dig at Luca. I think it goes beyond that. I think there are several guys that could have been in better shape.

People took that championship shape comment at as a dig at Luca. I think it goes beyond that. I think there are several guys that could have been in better shape.

Gonna refrain from Navy any days. But you can watch it. You can watch it, not Lebron, you can watch it and see No.

Gonna refrain from Navy any days. But you can watch it. You can watch it, not Lebron, you can watch it and see No.

I think really was Austin.

I think really was Austin.

Austin's shot was short sometimes. I think like his legs have sometimes, like last year he struggled in the playoffs in terms of shooting threes. This year that that was a bit of an issue. Like I think with him, his legs sometimes go out later in the season, so maybe that was a actor as well. But I also think it's like it goes beyond physical shape to me, it goes to mental shape and emotional shape, because winning a championship, it's not just about being in condition, it's about mental and emotional condition. And I don't think they were right, Like they were not ready for Game one.

Austin's shot was short sometimes. I think like his legs have sometimes, like last year he struggled in the playoffs in terms of shooting threes. This year that that was a bit of an issue. Like I think with him, his legs sometimes go out later in the season, so maybe that was a actor as well. But I also think it's like it goes beyond physical shape to me, it goes to mental shape and emotional shape, because winning a championship, it's not just about being in condition, it's about mental and emotional condition. And I don't think they were right, Like they were not ready for Game one.

Game five.

Game five.

You look at the urgency that first quarter was kind of embarrassing. They came out lacks of daisical, So like, I don't know if they were ever fully right mentally in this series.

You look at the urgency that first quarter was kind of embarrassing. They came out lacks of daisical, So like, I don't know if they were ever fully right mentally in this series.

Be sure to catch live editions of The Herd Weekdays and Neon Eastern non a em Pacific.

Be sure to catch live editions of The Herd Weekdays and Neon Eastern non a em Pacific.

The whole Hey, why is he playing Maxi Kleeber, who hasn't played since January, Well, clearly he doesn't trust Jackson Hayes. A lot of people think Jackson hay is going to be playing in China next year.

The whole Hey, why is he playing Maxi Kleeber, who hasn't played since January, Well, clearly he doesn't trust Jackson Hayes. A lot of people think Jackson hay is going to be playing in China next year.

That's how bad he was. Like, he's like unplayable.

That's how bad he was. Like, he's like unplayable.

Reddick doesn't trust him, and I understand that like Vanderbilt, he can't give you anything offensively. He's just board's a hustle. Did you have an issue with Maxie Kleeber getting dusted off five minutes left in a close game?

Reddick doesn't trust him, and I understand that like Vanderbilt, he can't give you anything offensively. He's just board's a hustle. Did you have an issue with Maxie Kleeber getting dusted off five minutes left in a close game?

A little bit, I'll be honest, just because it was more so about he hadn't played in three months, and this is an elimination game, and it's new team, new city, new system, new teammates, the coaching staff, all that stuff, So like to throw a guy in that moment, I think, I think it really was another sign of desperation, like in back to back games, playing five guys for a full second half, and then you play a guy who has yet to play.

A little bit, I'll be honest, just because it was more so about he hadn't played in three months, and this is an elimination game, and it's new team, new city, new system, new teammates, the coaching staff, all that stuff, So like to throw a guy in that moment, I think, I think it really was another sign of desperation, like in back to back games, playing five guys for a full second half, and then you play a guy who has yet to play.

With your team all season.

With your team all season.

However, I will say, like the alternatives weren't great, Jackson Hayes had a rough series and clearly JJ Reddick won, but anything, I think he should have gone away from him a little bit earlier. I think by Game two in that series, it was clear it was just not Jackson series.

However, I will say, like the alternatives weren't great, Jackson Hayes had a rough series and clearly JJ Reddick won, but anything, I think he should have gone away from him a little bit earlier. I think by Game two in that series, it was clear it was just not Jackson series.

No.

No.

I mean that's another thing that I think they kind of watched that situation of they had a couple two way bigs Christian Colloco trade Jemison.

I mean that's another thing that I think they kind of watched that situation of they had a couple two way bigs Christian Colloco trade Jemison.

What happened to Coloco?

What happened to Coloco?

They never converted them, so they were playoff ineligible.

They never converted them, so they were playoff ineligible.

I mean, he looked okay at times, but again, I don't know if he'd have been ready.

I mean, he looked okay at times, but again, I don't know if he'd have been ready.

I don't know if it makes a different.

I don't know if it makes a different.

Like I think the thing even even with Game four, let's say the Lakers won that game, I still think they probably lose the series.

Like I think the thing even even with Game four, let's say the Lakers won that game, I still think they probably lose the series.

I would I don't, just with the way that those fourth quarters went.

I would I don't, just with the way that those fourth quarters went.

So let me ask, where are you with Lebron's chances of not being on a Laker next year? Can you put a number on it? Five percent chance he's on Golden State or Dallas or whatever, any percentage that he's not with the Lakers.

So let me ask, where are you with Lebron's chances of not being on a Laker next year? Can you put a number on it? Five percent chance he's on Golden State or Dallas or whatever, any percentage that he's not with the Lakers.

I put it low, like ten to fifteen percent. So I think he's going to be back.

I put it low, like ten to fifteen percent. So I think he's going to be back.

I think it's probably going to be one of two things. Either he opts into that fifty two point six million dollar player option or he signs a one plus one, opts out and then re signs for one plus one to give himself some flexibility and see if he wants to play an additional season. But last year at the Athletic we reported that he was likely going to play two more seasons that would take him through next season when his contract is up. So nothing has really changed on that front in terms of that being the most likely scenario. But of course, with Bryce, you'd ever know if he's going to want to continue to extend his career.

I think it's probably going to be one of two things. Either he opts into that fifty two point six million dollar player option or he signs a one plus one, opts out and then re signs for one plus one to give himself some flexibility and see if he wants to play an additional season. But last year at the Athletic we reported that he was likely going to play two more seasons that would take him through next season when his contract is up. So nothing has really changed on that front in terms of that being the most likely scenario. But of course, with Bryce, you'd ever know if he's going to want to continue to extend his career.

So I think I saw that the All Star Game and is in LA next year?

So I think I saw that the All Star Game and is in LA next year?

It is, but it is It's with the Clippers though, so it's at.

It is, but it is It's with the Clippers though, so it's at.

Into it, so it's it into it. So it probably wouldn't be something Lebron's send off.

Into it, so it's it into it. So it probably wouldn't be something Lebron's send off.

I mean maybe, but it could be, but I don't know if it's going to be celebrated the same way as if it was a crazy.

I mean maybe, but it could be, but I don't know if it's going to be celebrated the same way as if it was a crazy.

Right, right, that makes sense. So if you're of a below the belief that the Lakers were kind of close, they keep Reeves, keep Lebron obviously, and Luca's under contract. Is there any way to make this team better? Because the parallel to Dallas is Dallas got Kyrie, missed the playoffs, retooled with Lively in the draft, gafferd PJ. Washington at the deadline, and they went to the finals. Couldn't the Lakers do something similar to that?

Right, right, that makes sense. So if you're of a below the belief that the Lakers were kind of close, they keep Reeves, keep Lebron obviously, and Luca's under contract. Is there any way to make this team better? Because the parallel to Dallas is Dallas got Kyrie, missed the playoffs, retooled with Lively in the draft, gafferd PJ. Washington at the deadline, and they went to the finals. Couldn't the Lakers do something similar to that?

I think so. I think so.

I think so. I think so.

And a big thing with that too, was Luca talked about this after the elimination, was that he and Kyrie like didn't really fit together that first half season after Kyrie got traded there as we saw with them missing the playoffs, and then they needed an offseason and they needed a training camp in a preseason to figure out how to play together offensively, and I think there was elements of that with the Lakers and Luca and Lebron in Austin, and I think it just never clicked offensively like we thought when they made the trade. The questions would be on the defensive end, and their defense was not great to be clear in the series, but they were barely cracking one hundred points consistently, and with the firepower that they had offensively that needs to be better, and again running out of gas in the fourth quarter, couldn't score. So I think having an offseason with those three to figure things out will be good. But I think the big thing is that they needed to get bigger. They need more size, they need more athleticism. A big key for Dallas making that finals run was Daniel Gafford and Derek Lively and their pick and roll chemistry with Luca. They had that in the regular season with Jackson Hayes, but clearly it was a bit of fools goals. So they need to go out and get a high level starting center who can be a pick and roll partner and protect the rim.

And a big thing with that too, was Luca talked about this after the elimination, was that he and Kyrie like didn't really fit together that first half season after Kyrie got traded there as we saw with them missing the playoffs, and then they needed an offseason and they needed a training camp in a preseason to figure out how to play together offensively, and I think there was elements of that with the Lakers and Luca and Lebron in Austin, and I think it just never clicked offensively like we thought when they made the trade. The questions would be on the defensive end, and their defense was not great to be clear in the series, but they were barely cracking one hundred points consistently, and with the firepower that they had offensively that needs to be better, and again running out of gas in the fourth quarter, couldn't score. So I think having an offseason with those three to figure things out will be good. But I think the big thing is that they needed to get bigger. They need more size, they need more athleticism. A big key for Dallas making that finals run was Daniel Gafford and Derek Lively and their pick and roll chemistry with Luca. They had that in the regular season with Jackson Hayes, but clearly it was a bit of fools goals. So they need to go out and get a high level starting center who can be a pick and roll partner and protect the rim.

The physicality in these playoffs, I gotta be honest. You play some pick up I play a lot. I didn't like Aunt just shoving Lebron. That's not basketball. That's impeding someone trying to get to a spot. And we're seeing it around the league. Steve Curse can play. All the coaches are complaining. I'm just curious. From being on the ground level, it looked a lot more physical than we saw the regular season.

The physicality in these playoffs, I gotta be honest. You play some pick up I play a lot. I didn't like Aunt just shoving Lebron. That's not basketball. That's impeding someone trying to get to a spot. And we're seeing it around the league. Steve Curse can play. All the coaches are complaining. I'm just curious. From being on the ground level, it looked a lot more physical than we saw the regular season.

I just felt like the pendulum swung too far.

I just felt like the pendulum swung too far.

I enjoy it. I'm a bit of a dirty.

I enjoy it. I'm a bit of a dirty.

These NBA guy.

These NBA guy.

Okay, no, no, because I like I like threes, I like the modern game, I like spacing. I don't like these paint slug fests per se. But I think there has been like I think they're starting to find a bit of a balance, and maybe it has swung too much in the physicality direction, but I think people complain during the regular season that there's not enough of that, So maybe they still have to swing it back a little bit to find that sweet spot. But you give me spacing and three point shooting and modern concepts on both sides of the ball. With the physicality and the toughness of the eighties and nineties, I think that's like the sweet spot for like the modern game.

Okay, no, no, because I like I like threes, I like the modern game, I like spacing. I don't like these paint slug fests per se. But I think there has been like I think they're starting to find a bit of a balance, and maybe it has swung too much in the physicality direction, but I think people complain during the regular season that there's not enough of that, So maybe they still have to swing it back a little bit to find that sweet spot. But you give me spacing and three point shooting and modern concepts on both sides of the ball. With the physicality and the toughness of the eighties and nineties, I think that's like the sweet spot for like the modern game.

I don't know how much you're able to watch the other series, but like Field, Curry is getting bodied by Thompson Brooks every he's on the floor. He's got this big thing on his hand. They're actually not calling when you release. They're touching his hand every time. They're not really calling that and cursed. Really I rate, So you don't mind the physicality.

I don't know how much you're able to watch the other series, but like Field, Curry is getting bodied by Thompson Brooks every he's on the floor. He's got this big thing on his hand. They're actually not calling when you release. They're touching his hand every time. They're not really calling that and cursed. Really I rate, So you don't mind the physicality.

I don't like within reason, right, So I think that there's some like Luca gets his back taken out by Dante.

I don't like within reason, right, So I think that there's some like Luca gets his back taken out by Dante.

Evencenzo I thought that was ala.

Evencenzo I thought that was ala.

I thought this first, like, oh, shoulder, and then he checks Lebron and we got the news right before, right as I'm driving here, that Lebron now has a Grade two MCL sprain in his left knee from that direct hit. So like, I agree that it can go a little in steph with his hand, like it can go a little bit too far. I'm not advocating for like no flagrance and injuries and whatnot, but I think in general, I'd rather see more.

I thought this first, like, oh, shoulder, and then he checks Lebron and we got the news right before, right as I'm driving here, that Lebron now has a Grade two MCL sprain in his left knee from that direct hit. So like, I agree that it can go a little in steph with his hand, like it can go a little bit too far. I'm not advocating for like no flagrance and injuries and whatnot, but I think in general, I'd rather see more.

Competitive, physical basketball than in the regular season.

Competitive, physical basketball than in the regular season.

It can be like, like, you know, the antithesis is the All Star Game, right, and the lack of defense, the lack of physicality, the lack of care. Like, I feel like this year there's been an extra emphasis with that that I've really enjoyed.

It can be like, like, you know, the antithesis is the All Star Game, right, and the lack of defense, the lack of physicality, the lack of care. Like, I feel like this year there's been an extra emphasis with that that I've really enjoyed.

But don't you think that the players now are the most skilled we've ever seen in NBA history. Let them cook, let them go to work. And I feel like we're not totally letting that happen with the way. I mean, the Thompson Twins really great defenders, but man, what they were doing at Brunson.

But don't you think that the players now are the most skilled we've ever seen in NBA history. Let them cook, let them go to work. And I feel like we're not totally letting that happen with the way. I mean, the Thompson Twins really great defenders, but man, what they were doing at Brunson.

He's on the ground every time he drives to the basket every time.

He's on the ground every time he drives to the basket every time.

Well, that I think is just part of Brunston flopping a little bit.

Well, that I think is just part of Brunston flopping a little bit.

He's a flopper. Now, okay, I think so you pay for that billboard in Detroitler, No, I'm not a Detroit guy.

He's a flopper. Now, okay, I think so you pay for that billboard in Detroitler, No, I'm not a Detroit guy.

I just I think he flops a little bit.

I just I think he flops a little bit.

All right, we'll wrap up Clippers Nuggets Game seven. I don't know how. I haven't seen a ton of this series, except the endings have been pretty good. We had Ryan Hollins on earlier saying, hey, probably Kawhi. I don't know who do you? Who do you got in this one?

All right, we'll wrap up Clippers Nuggets Game seven. I don't know how. I haven't seen a ton of this series, except the endings have been pretty good. We had Ryan Hollins on earlier saying, hey, probably Kawhi. I don't know who do you? Who do you got in this one?

It's off. So my series prediction was Clippers and six.

It's off. So my series prediction was Clippers and six.

I think they have been the better team up to this point in the series, but I don't like betting against nikolay Oki at home.

I think they have been the better team up to this point in the series, but I don't like betting against nikolay Oki at home.

Game seven. Nuggets championship pedigree.

Game seven. Nuggets championship pedigree.

They still have last year it did against Minnesota fifteen point halftime. I think they led by as many as twenty fifteen point halftime lead, and then they lost that at home.

They still have last year it did against Minnesota fifteen point halftime. I think they led by as many as twenty fifteen point halftime lead, and then they lost that at home.

So I'm probably leading.

So I'm probably leading.

I'd probably lean Nuggets like fifty two to forty eight in terms of percentage, but I think it's pretty close.

I'd probably lean Nuggets like fifty two to forty eight in terms of percentage, but I think it's pretty close.

Last one, do you have a hot take for where Giannis is playing at the beginning of next season? Anything's in play.

Last one, do you have a hot take for where Giannis is playing at the beginning of next season? Anything's in play.

I think anything is in play. Uh, I'll say Houston. If I had it, I think they have both the draft capital and the young players to get it done.

I think anything is in play. Uh, I'll say Houston. If I had it, I think they have both the draft capital and the young players to get it done.

You would you give up a Thompson in a package? Would you give up shind?

You would you give up a Thompson in a package? Would you give up shind?

I mean, if it really came down to Thompson, I would strongly consider it, But that would be the.

I mean, if it really came down to Thompson, I would strongly consider it, But that would be the.

One guy I would prioritize keeping.

One guy I would prioritize keeping.

Jaalen Green pick. Yes, interesting, Kevin direct to the Lakers. Any chance that happened zero.

Jaalen Green pick. Yes, interesting, Kevin direct to the Lakers. Any chance that happened zero.

I mean one percent. There's always there's always Look, it's the Lakers. I didn't think they were going to get Lucas, so there's always a chance.

I mean one percent. There's always there's always Look, it's the Lakers. I didn't think they were going to get Lucas, so there's always a chance.

But I mean it's almost impossible to do it without giving up like Lebron, and I'd have.

But I mean it's almost impossible to do it without giving up like Lebron, and I'd have.

To consider it.

To consider it.

Yeah, but I mean like the salary, it doesn't so you have to.

Yeah, but I mean like the salary, it doesn't so you have to.

I mean, like Katie is.

I mean, like Katie is.

A better player, but but obviously with the contract and seems to ever be happy anywhere.

A better player, but but obviously with the contract and seems to ever be happy anywhere.

And all right, Yo, that's why I.

And all right, Yo, that's why I.

See the good stuff covers the Lakers for the athletic great stuff. As usual, Let's go to Alex Furry with the news.

See the good stuff covers the Lakers for the athletic great stuff. As usual, Let's go to Alex Furry with the news.

Turns this is the herd Line news.

Turns this is the herd Line news.

All right, j Mac, We're gonna go back to the NFL and start in Vegas because Ashin Genty became the highest drafted running backs in Saquon in twenty eighteen when the Raiders drafted him with the sixth overall pick in the draft. He currently has the shortest offensive the year odds at plus two thirty. And we know Carol likes to likes to run the ball, so we know Jeny's going to get the balls. He also Raiders don't have a ton of weapons, so he's going to be he should be an immediate impact player. He also has the confidence, right we heard him say, if you pick me, it's simple. I'm coming to your franchise to do what Saquon did with the Eagles, which you know again I said this earlier with Shudor Sanders. I love confidence coming into especially a completely new league, and if you want to be a leader. But they're O line, yeah, like it's it's okay, it's improving. I don't know if it's gonna allow him to again Rookie of the Year.

All right, j Mac, We're gonna go back to the NFL and start in Vegas because Ashin Genty became the highest drafted running backs in Saquon in twenty eighteen when the Raiders drafted him with the sixth overall pick in the draft. He currently has the shortest offensive the year odds at plus two thirty. And we know Carol likes to likes to run the ball, so we know Jeny's going to get the balls. He also Raiders don't have a ton of weapons, so he's going to be he should be an immediate impact player. He also has the confidence, right we heard him say, if you pick me, it's simple. I'm coming to your franchise to do what Saquon did with the Eagles, which you know again I said this earlier with Shudor Sanders. I love confidence coming into especially a completely new league, and if you want to be a leader. But they're O line, yeah, like it's it's okay, it's improving. I don't know if it's gonna allow him to again Rookie of the Year.

Cam Ward is gonna be slinging it starting for Tennessee. Usually the quarterback has the edge, but Jenz should put up big numbers.

Cam Ward is gonna be slinging it starting for Tennessee. Usually the quarterback has the edge, but Jenz should put up big numbers.

He should, He's I think he's gonna be their probably most valuable of bours.

He should, He's I think he's gonna be their probably most valuable of bours.

The tight end is good, but yeah, they're gonna I think they'll lean on him a lot. Interesting that he's favored over them. Yeah, Travis Hunter, if he does play two ways, I think that'll bump him.

The tight end is good, but yeah, they're gonna I think they'll lean on him a lot. Interesting that he's favored over them. Yeah, Travis Hunter, if he does play two ways, I think that'll bump him.

Up significantly, definitely.

Up significantly, definitely.

So uh, you know, I like underdogs, so I would probably go elsewhere besides genty. But he's gonna be good.

So uh, you know, I like underdogs, so I would probably go elsewhere besides genty. But he's gonna be good.

Oh, you wouldn't go with any of these any I would go.

Oh, you wouldn't go with any of these any I would go.

I would probably go Hunter on that list plus nine to fifty. Yeah, I mean I could take another trip to Japan if that thing gets jeez.

I would probably go Hunter on that list plus nine to fifty. Yeah, I mean I could take another trip to Japan if that thing gets jeez.

All right, back to the NBA. The Pistons lost a hard fought six game series against your next yesterday, so a lot of focus is on New York right now, but we sh she take him minute to acknowledge Detroit. This team won fourteen games last year and this year nearly tripled its win total and made the playoffs. And Kate Cunningham spoke about the Piston's future after the loss. Okay, so we prove to ourselves that we have what we have in the room works, and we can be very successful in the NBA. I think at the same time, we prove that to the rest of the league as well, that we have come to play. This is a dogfight and we're gonna have to come to play the full forty eight. Like when you think about it, they won fourteen wins last year, thanks j Mac, forty four this year. That is a thirty win improvement. That is the sixth best in NBA history. That's ridiculous, it's kind of insane. So they put up they put up a great fight. I think they have a bright future. There were you know, de penning which side you're on, There are some questionable calls in the game.

All right, back to the NBA. The Pistons lost a hard fought six game series against your next yesterday, so a lot of focus is on New York right now, but we sh she take him minute to acknowledge Detroit. This team won fourteen games last year and this year nearly tripled its win total and made the playoffs. And Kate Cunningham spoke about the Piston's future after the loss. Okay, so we prove to ourselves that we have what we have in the room works, and we can be very successful in the NBA. I think at the same time, we prove that to the rest of the league as well, that we have come to play. This is a dogfight and we're gonna have to come to play the full forty eight. Like when you think about it, they won fourteen wins last year, thanks j Mac, forty four this year. That is a thirty win improvement. That is the sixth best in NBA history. That's ridiculous, it's kind of insane. So they put up they put up a great fight. I think they have a bright future. There were you know, de penning which side you're on, There are some questionable calls in the game.

That Celtics forty two win team is that when they got peers some help in like KG and Ray Allen.

That Celtics forty two win team is that when they got peers some help in like KG and Ray Allen.

So that was the largest this is the largest win improvement.

So that was the largest this is the largest win improvement.

Yeah. And then the Spurs, I think when they drafted David Robinson or you're looking.

Yeah. And then the Spurs, I think when they drafted David Robinson or you're looking.

Like there were big there were big guys who can't Detroit didn't swing.

Like there were big there were big guys who can't Detroit didn't swing.

No, you didn't have anything.

No, you didn't have anything.

Yeah, No, they just kind of figured it out.

Yeah, No, they just kind of figured it out.

Oh that's impressive, right, were you?

Oh that's impressive, right, were you?

Yes?

Yes?

Okay, two thousand and seven to eight.

Okay, two thousand and seven to eight.

Was Garnett impress with Pistons than you expected at the start of the series.

Was Garnett impress with Pistons than you expected at the start of the series.

Oh, definitely.

Oh, definitely.

Now I get excited about NBA off season, right, Yeah, So I'm looking at their salaries.

Now I get excited about NBA off season, right, Yeah, So I'm looking at their salaries.

Tim Hardaway junior free agent.

Tim Hardaway junior free agent.

They let him go. Dennis Shruder, he's gone. Watch for him to land in Dallas. Maybe is like a Kyrie replacement testing Malik Beasley's deals up? Is there a world? We got a Detroit guy on staff, Martin Isaac Kevin Durant to the Pistons, Does that make sense? I mean they're close and in the East, much easier than that, but like.

They let him go. Dennis Shruder, he's gone. Watch for him to land in Dallas. Maybe is like a Kyrie replacement testing Malik Beasley's deals up? Is there a world? We got a Detroit guy on staff, Martin Isaac Kevin Durant to the Pistons, Does that make sense? I mean they're close and in the East, much easier than that, but like.

Kind of towards the end of your career going to like you're still like building to get to that point you think Katie's gonna go to me.

Kind of towards the end of your career going to like you're still like building to get to that point you think Katie's gonna go to me.

I don't know a.

I don't know a.

Place that's not like a ready win. Now we can do this?

Place that's not like a ready win. Now we can do this?

Well, yeah, that that might been his.

Well, yeah, that that might been his.

That's been his like that, that's been his whole career.

That's been his like that, that's been his whole career.

When Jade and Ivy was out injured. He's good for Purdue kid, he'll come back. So their back court's fine. They just need that a soart get a bucket guy like Kate Cunningham is really good.

When Jade and Ivy was out injured. He's good for Purdue kid, he'll come back. So their back court's fine. They just need that a soart get a bucket guy like Kate Cunningham is really good.

He bricked a lefty layup with the game on.

He bricked a lefty layup with the game on.

The line, oh for eight from three, Like they they could use Kevin Durant in Detroit, and then it's like, maybe they're not in the class of Celtics, but they're there with like Cleveland and the Knicks, and then there's the Pacers are up there as well. Okay, I think I would consider.

The line, oh for eight from three, Like they they could use Kevin Durant in Detroit, and then it's like, maybe they're not in the class of Celtics, but they're there with like Cleveland and the Knicks, and then there's the Pacers are up there as well. Okay, I think I would consider.

Katie if they definitely need a big start. Yeah, they need need you need the big Stark.

Katie if they definitely need a big start. Yeah, they need need you need the big Stark.

No, I don't know.

No, I don't know.

Joannis is going to go to I think a big, a big market.

Joannis is going to go to I think a big, a big market.

Johann's prediction. Jovann's prediction was Houston. What was your prediction?

Johann's prediction. Jovann's prediction was Houston. What was your prediction?

Have you shared that I had.

Have you shared that I had.

Celtics a couple months ago? Really, you know, a little too hot of a take, Alex.

Celtics a couple months ago? Really, you know, a little too hot of a take, Alex.

It's well, I mean there's a lot of talk with the new ownership. There's going to be a lot of movement coming up this offseason, also pending how they do in this run. Yeah, it's what moves get made after the end of this season. The trade. Yeah interesting. Okay, last story back to the NFL. The Eagles won the Super Bowl, but have made a ton of offseason moves, especially on the defensive side of the ball, and GM Howie Roseman knows he's got his work cut out from despite the Championship.

It's well, I mean there's a lot of talk with the new ownership. There's going to be a lot of movement coming up this offseason, also pending how they do in this run. Yeah, it's what moves get made after the end of this season. The trade. Yeah interesting. Okay, last story back to the NFL. The Eagles won the Super Bowl, but have made a ton of offseason moves, especially on the defensive side of the ball, and GM Howie Roseman knows he's got his work cut out from despite the Championship.

I see the attitude and the energy. We understand. We understand that we that twenty twenty five is a new year. We haven't won a game yet in twenty twenty five. We're gonna have to do our best and work our hardest to have the kind of season that we're looking for. And nothing in the past is going to guarantee future success.

I see the attitude and the energy. We understand. We understand that we that twenty twenty five is a new year. We haven't won a game yet in twenty twenty five. We're gonna have to do our best and work our hardest to have the kind of season that we're looking for. And nothing in the past is going to guarantee future success.

Yeah. I mean, you now have the biggest target on your back this year. That's the attitude that you have to have. Last year is like let me prove you wrong. This year it's like, oh, well you won, so now we're all coming for you. And if you look at the last ten super Bowl seasons, there's only two teams that have made it back to the super Bowl after winning the super Bowl in the last ten years, and it's the Chiefs twice and then Tom Brady's Patriots. So it's not an easy feat after you win to even get back.

Yeah. I mean, you now have the biggest target on your back this year. That's the attitude that you have to have. Last year is like let me prove you wrong. This year it's like, oh, well you won, so now we're all coming for you. And if you look at the last ten super Bowl seasons, there's only two teams that have made it back to the super Bowl after winning the super Bowl in the last ten years, and it's the Chiefs twice and then Tom Brady's Patriots. So it's not an easy feat after you win to even get back.

Yeah, that's hard to the super Bowl.

Yeah, that's hard to the super Bowl.

And the Chiefs in the last ten years are the only ones.

And the Chiefs in the last ten years are the only ones.

To actually win.

To actually win.

That was their back to back win and then obviously missed the three feet this year, but yeah, they're the only ones to actually go back and win it.

That was their back to back win and then obviously missed the three feet this year, but yeah, they're the only ones to actually go back and win it.

So I'm looking at the Eagles depth chart.

So I'm looking at the Eagles depth chart.

Yeah, it looks like to my untrained eye, they will return ten of eleven starters on offense. Defense, it looks like they're going to have three new two or three new starters. Okay, so that's returning a lot of talent. The defense won that game.

Yeah, it looks like to my untrained eye, they will return ten of eleven starters on offense. Defense, it looks like they're going to have three new two or three new starters. Okay, so that's returning a lot of talent. The defense won that game.

They should be in the mix.

They should be in the mix.

Who do we have on NFL earlier that it was a Jeff Schwartz said, Eagles back to the Super Bowl. I don't know you bet against them, but the keep an eye on the rams. Remember the gambling guy we had on of you.

Who do we have on NFL earlier that it was a Jeff Schwartz said, Eagles back to the Super Bowl. I don't know you bet against them, but the keep an eye on the rams. Remember the gambling guy we had on of you.

I know you're around sneaky, sneaky.

I know you're around sneaky, sneaky.

They're gonna be dangerous sneaky.

They're gonna be dangerous sneaky.

Yeah.

Yeah.

Yeah, they tacked up a lot of depth.

Yeah, they tacked up a lot of depth.

All right. Alex Curry with the news, Well that's the news, and thanks for stopping by the Herd Line news.

All right. Alex Curry with the news, Well that's the news, and thanks for stopping by the Herd Line news.

All right, so we got a good one.

All right, so we got a good one.

Next, what is the player in the NBA that you would pick the most clutch?

Next, what is the player in the NBA that you would pick the most clutch?

You got a last second shot?

You got a last second shot?

Who's taking it? We'll do that list next year on the Herd.

Who's taking it? We'll do that list next year on the Herd.

Be sure to catch live editions of The Herd Weekdays and Noone easternn AM Pacific.

Be sure to catch live editions of The Herd Weekdays and Noone easternn AM Pacific.

Hey, Steve Covino and I'm Rich David, and together we're Covino and Rich on Fox Sports Radio.

Hey, Steve Covino and I'm Rich David, and together we're Covino and Rich on Fox Sports Radio.

You could catch us weekdays from five to seven pm Eastern two to four Pacific on Fox Sports Radio and of course the iHeartRadio app.

You could catch us weekdays from five to seven pm Eastern two to four Pacific on Fox Sports Radio and of course the iHeartRadio app.

Why should you listen to Covino and Rich.

Why should you listen to Covino and Rich.

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We talk about everything, life, sports, relationships, what's going on in the world.

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We have a lot of fun talking about the stories behind the stories in the world of sports and pop culture. Story is that well other shows don't seem to have the time to discuss.

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With just two races left before the Indy five hundred, the IndyCar Series hits barber for the Children's of Alabama Indy Grand Prix, the fastest racing on Earth, continues live from Birmingham Sunday at one thirty Eastern on Fox.

With just two races left before the Indy five hundred, the IndyCar Series hits barber for the Children's of Alabama Indy Grand Prix, the fastest racing on Earth, continues live from Birmingham Sunday at one thirty Eastern on Fox.

Show's just absolutely flown by Alex. I mean goodness, gracious, I can't believe it's almost over.

Show's just absolutely flown by Alex. I mean goodness, gracious, I can't believe it's almost over.

So the staff, you know, we never know.

So the staff, you know, we never know.

We're gonna do it. At the end of the show. It's a grab bag. We could do anything, Alex and I. I could just rant about life, liberty in the pursuit of happiness. In the final eight minutes. However, my guy Scott hands me a piece of paper. Jay rank the players left in the playoffs as your top five closers. You get a shot final ten seconds, fifteen seconds. That's your guy. Now, I did ask could I put myself on the list Because I am clutch, I only drink coffee. Because I'm a closer, I'm not allowed to put myself on the list. So here we go. Let's roar with number five, Jamal Murray. I mean listen. Murray is super clutch. Lakers fans remember last year Hit two game winning shots against them to knock them out. He did have a forty piece I think forty three against the paper Clips. And you know Game seven is gonna be big. Obviously it's Joki Kawhi. But I trust Jamal Murray way more than I do James Harden. You know, game seven, James Harden turns into Jim Harden. So I think Jamal Murray number five left in the playoffs on my clutch list, number four.

We're gonna do it. At the end of the show. It's a grab bag. We could do anything, Alex and I. I could just rant about life, liberty in the pursuit of happiness. In the final eight minutes. However, my guy Scott hands me a piece of paper. Jay rank the players left in the playoffs as your top five closers. You get a shot final ten seconds, fifteen seconds. That's your guy. Now, I did ask could I put myself on the list Because I am clutch, I only drink coffee. Because I'm a closer, I'm not allowed to put myself on the list. So here we go. Let's roar with number five, Jamal Murray. I mean listen. Murray is super clutch. Lakers fans remember last year Hit two game winning shots against them to knock them out. He did have a forty piece I think forty three against the paper Clips. And you know Game seven is gonna be big. Obviously it's Joki Kawhi. But I trust Jamal Murray way more than I do James Harden. You know, game seven, James Harden turns into Jim Harden. So I think Jamal Murray number five left in the playoffs on my clutch list, number four.

Let's go with the ant man, Anthony Edwards listen.

Let's go with the ant man, Anthony Edwards listen.

He finished third in clutch player voting this season, led the NBA in clutch point and clutch threes this season. He's a big time player man. We saw it in the Lakers series. He's tough to stop when he gets going downhill. I don't know how you stop him. Like you see they put Ruey on him, too slow, Austin Rad's on him, no, too skinny, like they had no matchup for Anthony Edwards. I know it's gonna be a shocker. SGA did not make my list. Anthony Edwards did so. Anthony Edwards number four, number three. This one's easy. Jason Tatum. I don't know how this happened, folks, I disliked Boston teams my entire life. Born in New York, we are conditioned to dislike Boston sports teams. But I love me some Jason Tatum. Maybe because he went to Duke, Maybe because he's a baller, dunked on Lebron. I think at nineteen in the playoffs, Listen, how good are these He is the second leading scorer in the fourth quarter in the playoffs. Jason Tatum, when it's winning time, get him the rock.

He finished third in clutch player voting this season, led the NBA in clutch point and clutch threes this season. He's a big time player man. We saw it in the Lakers series. He's tough to stop when he gets going downhill. I don't know how you stop him. Like you see they put Ruey on him, too slow, Austin Rad's on him, no, too skinny, like they had no matchup for Anthony Edwards. I know it's gonna be a shocker. SGA did not make my list. Anthony Edwards did so. Anthony Edwards number four, number three. This one's easy. Jason Tatum. I don't know how this happened, folks, I disliked Boston teams my entire life. Born in New York, we are conditioned to dislike Boston sports teams. But I love me some Jason Tatum. Maybe because he went to Duke, Maybe because he's a baller, dunked on Lebron. I think at nineteen in the playoffs, Listen, how good are these He is the second leading scorer in the fourth quarter in the playoffs. Jason Tatum, when it's winning time, get him the rock.

He's awesome.

He's awesome.

He hit the game winning Cuttings spinning lay up. Everybody remembers that against the Nets in twenty twenty two, and Tatum has the highest scoring average in the fourth quarter this season. He's clutch. Jason Tatum number three. Let's go to number two, my goat from Shooting Territory, Steph Curry. I mean he's already won the Clutch Award once. He won it, I believe last season. Yes, and he leads the NBA and clutch points in the playoffs since twenty fifteen. Now you could say, well, he's played in more playoff games. Yeah, because he's.

He hit the game winning Cuttings spinning lay up. Everybody remembers that against the Nets in twenty twenty two, and Tatum has the highest scoring average in the fourth quarter this season. He's clutch. Jason Tatum number three. Let's go to number two, my goat from Shooting Territory, Steph Curry. I mean he's already won the Clutch Award once. He won it, I believe last season. Yes, and he leads the NBA and clutch points in the playoffs since twenty fifteen. Now you could say, well, he's played in more playoff games. Yeah, because he's.

Great and when the game's on.

Great and when the game's on.

The line, Listen, I can hear an argument for Jimmy Butler, but I think it's got to undeniably be Steph Curry on the Warriors.

The line, Listen, I can hear an argument for Jimmy Butler, but I think it's got to undeniably be Steph Curry on the Warriors.

Now.

Now.

The thing is the Rockets are roughing him up.

The thing is the Rockets are roughing him up.

Ryan Hollins was reluctant to admit it, but the Rockets are playing have some goony prison rules basketball and Curry I don't like that, but I still trust him in the clutch and number one, the most clutch player.

Ryan Hollins was reluctant to admit it, but the Rockets are playing have some goony prison rules basketball and Curry I don't like that, but I still trust him in the clutch and number one, the most clutch player.

Left in the playoffs.

Left in the playoffs.

There's there's nobody else, guys, It's Jalen Brunson. By the way. So last night series clincher, they're down seven, okay, with like two and a half left, and Brunson just takes over.

There's there's nobody else, guys, It's Jalen Brunson. By the way. So last night series clincher, they're down seven, okay, with like two and a half left, and Brunson just takes over.

They put Dennis.

They put Dennis.

Shrewder on him.

Shrewder on him.

What a mistake that was. Brunson cooks him for five quick ones and then they bring back on Star Thompson. I'm not kidding, guys. I could work on this move that won the game for the next two months every day, for an hour with any private trainer you wanted. I could never pull that off. It is the level of skill. It's just breathtaking. I'm a huge Jalen Brunson fan. I mean, hell, he might be my favorite player in the league.

What a mistake that was. Brunson cooks him for five quick ones and then they bring back on Star Thompson. I'm not kidding, guys. I could work on this move that won the game for the next two months every day, for an hour with any private trainer you wanted. I could never pull that off. It is the level of skill. It's just breathtaking. I'm a huge Jalen Brunson fan. I mean, hell, he might be my favorite player in the league.

Is Curry.

Is Curry.

Number two, Luca or Lebron. I think Jalen Brunson might be three. He is just breathtaking to watch. Won the Clutch Player of the Year award, lead the playoffs in fourth quarter scoring and clutch time scoring. And he's diminutive. You know, he's six to one. You're thinking, Oh, we can get a body out of No, he's too quick and shifty get to the mid range. I mean, what's not to love, you know who? It kind of reminds me of Joe Dumars without the defense. Joe Dumars was a big time scorer. I mean, you got to go back to the eighties. But a little Joe Dumars plus Isaiah Thomas. Although he doesn't have quite the swagger, he did tell the fans who were cursing him all night, say goodbye.

Number two, Luca or Lebron. I think Jalen Brunson might be three. He is just breathtaking to watch. Won the Clutch Player of the Year award, lead the playoffs in fourth quarter scoring and clutch time scoring. And he's diminutive. You know, he's six to one. You're thinking, Oh, we can get a body out of No, he's too quick and shifty get to the mid range. I mean, what's not to love, you know who? It kind of reminds me of Joe Dumars without the defense. Joe Dumars was a big time scorer. I mean, you got to go back to the eighties. But a little Joe Dumars plus Isaiah Thomas. Although he doesn't have quite the swagger, he did tell the fans who were cursing him all night, say goodbye.

Here's a kiss.

Here's a kiss.

Jalen Brunson most clutch player left in these NBA Playoffs. I can't wait for the games, Alex. Who you got tonight? Warriors Rockets Game six?

Jalen Brunson most clutch player left in these NBA Playoffs. I can't wait for the games, Alex. Who you got tonight? Warriors Rockets Game six?

I think I got Warriors.

I think I got Warriors.

Well, selfishly, I would love the game seven, wouldn't you.

Well, selfishly, I would love the game seven, wouldn't you.

Yeah? Everyone loves the Game seven. But I think the Warriors turn it on and take it a home. You could tell they kind of just like took their foot off the gas in the last game. It was like, Okay, that's okay, we'll go win it back at home. And I know you had them at number two, but Steph Curry is still like the most clutch shooter in the league, Like, hands down, if game on the line, if there's one person I'm gonna trust, it's Curry, hands out.

Yeah? Everyone loves the Game seven. But I think the Warriors turn it on and take it a home. You could tell they kind of just like took their foot off the gas in the last game. It was like, Okay, that's okay, we'll go win it back at home. And I know you had them at number two, but Steph Curry is still like the most clutch shooter in the league, Like, hands down, if game on the line, if there's one person I'm gonna trust, it's Curry, hands out.

And what about Game seven, paper Clips and Nuggets.

And what about Game seven, paper Clips and Nuggets.

It's so hard just because like Clippers really haven't proven anything in the playoffs and it's back in Denver. Yeah, Denver's just so good in Game seven, especially at home. But if again it's gonna come down to Justes Kawhi and James Harden show up and have the best game of the season so far because they were getting hot at the right time. They're healthy, which hasn't been kind of years past for the Clippers.

It's so hard just because like Clippers really haven't proven anything in the playoffs and it's back in Denver. Yeah, Denver's just so good in Game seven, especially at home. But if again it's gonna come down to Justes Kawhi and James Harden show up and have the best game of the season so far because they were getting hot at the right time. They're healthy, which hasn't been kind of years past for the Clippers.

Oh, let's wait to make sure Kawhi plays, you know, like how many times have we seen him in the playoffs. Alec Dour's like, yeah, Kawhi, Leonard's out tonight, me.

Oh, let's wait to make sure Kawhi plays, you know, like how many times have we seen him in the playoffs. Alec Dour's like, yeah, Kawhi, Leonard's out tonight, me.

And direct, And that's what I'm saying.

And direct, And that's what I'm saying.

It's like the next day down to ka it's an acl.

It's like the next day down to ka it's an acl.

Is he is he healthy? Is he going to play? Is he going to show up? But also like Denver's gonna let to play for right now, like they've they've kind of been stepping up since firing their head coach. And it's.

Is he is he healthy? Is he going to play? Is he going to show up? But also like Denver's gonna let to play for right now, like they've they've kind of been stepping up since firing their head coach. And it's.

The other big sports thing this weekend is the uh Kentucky Derby. I'm pretty sure is that this weekend. I think it is because I feel like some of them, I've never been. You've never been.

The other big sports thing this weekend is the uh Kentucky Derby. I'm pretty sure is that this weekend. I think it is because I feel like some of them, I've never been. You've never been.

No, that's definitely on the bucket list because I've covered baseball for the first ten years of my career and it's right in the middle of the season, so I never never had a chance to go.

No, that's definitely on the bucket list because I've covered baseball for the first ten years of my career and it's right in the middle of the season, so I never never had a chance to go.

Definitely fun. I worked it in.

Definitely fun. I worked it in.

I worked at a magazine one a couple of times.

I worked at a magazine one a couple of times.

I became buddies with Jerry O'Connell, the actor, very randomly at some party and then like we started texting and he's just a night he's a big Jets fan, so we kind of commiserate over the crappy Jets.

I became buddies with Jerry O'Connell, the actor, very randomly at some party and then like we started texting and he's just a night he's a big Jets fan, so we kind of commiserate over the crappy Jets.

Yeah, a show, pretty quick show, fun.

Yeah, a show, pretty quick show, fun.

Friday, Frisky Friday, Frisky fun Friday. I don't know the way have you guys picked out a name yet?

Friday, Frisky Friday, Frisky fun Friday. I don't know the way have you guys picked out a name yet?

I'm not sharing that, of course, see it Monday,

I'm not sharing that, of course, see it Monday,