Stephen A. Smith is a New York Times Bestselling Author, Executive Producer, host of ESPN's First Take, and co-host of NBA Countdown.
The Stephen A. Smith Show is a jam-packed, high-energy NBA-focused special featuring insider guest Shams Charania. The episode covers breaking news, trade rumors, injury updates, and draft projections, all delivered with Stephen A.’s signature passion and insight.
🎙️ Guest: Shams Charania
Role: NBA Insider, ESPN Analyst
Topic: Post-NBA Finals trades, injuries, and draft buzz
🏀 Key Topics & Highlights 🔁 Major Trades & Rumors
-
Jrue Holiday traded from Celtics to Trail Blazers:
- Celtics shedding salary (~$500M payroll).
- Portland gets a veteran leader and elite defender.
- Celtics expected to be very active this offseason.
-
Kevin Durant to Houston Rockets:
- Rockets acquire KD for Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, #10 pick, and five second-rounders.
- KD joins a young, athletic core (Amen Thompson, Jabari Smith, Alperen Şengün).
- Phoenix Suns looking to move Bradley Beal next.
-
CJ McCollum to Wizards:
- Pelicans trade McCollum, Kelly Olynyk, and a pick for Jordan Poole, Saddiq Bey, and #40 pick.
🏥 Injury Updates
- Jayson Tatum, Tyrese Haliburton, Damian Lillard all suffered Achilles tears.
- Tatum & Haliburton expected to miss the entire 2025–2026 season.
- Lillard might return late in the season, but caution is advised.
🔄 Player Movement & Free Agency
-
Giannis Antetokounmpo:
- Open to exploring options outside Milwaukee.
- Bucks operating as if he’s staying—for now.
-
Bradley Beal:
- Suns reportedly frustrated; may sideline him or push for a trade.
- Beal’s no-trade clause complicates matters.
-
Kyrie Irving:
- Mavericks reportedly offering less than $40M/year.
- Kyrie expected to opt in at $43M if no deal is reached.
- Stephen A. defends Kyrie’s leadership and value.
🧠 Stephen A.’s Commentary
- On Kyrie: “He’s not a locker room cancer. He’s a champion. He deserves his bag.”
- On Phoenix: “They had to make the KD deal. Jalen Green has upside, but needs discipline.”
- On Boston: “Porzingis’ health is a mystery. Tatum’s out. It’s a shame.”
- On Knicks: “No plan after firing Thibodeau. It’s a mess.”
- On Giannis: “Why stay in Milwaukee with no picks and Dame out?”
🧾 NBA Draft Preview
-
Top Picks:
- #1: Cooper Flagg (Dallas Mavericks)
- #2: Dylan Harper (San Antonio Spurs)
-
Teams to Watch:
- Utah (Pick #5)
- Toronto (Pick #9)
- OKC, Brooklyn, Philadelphia (Pick #3)
-
Draft Themes:
- Expect lots of movement starting at picks 3–6.
- Teams are actively shopping picks and exploring trades.
🔚 Closing Thoughts
- Stephen A. reflects on a hectic NBA season and looks forward to the draft.
- Emphasizes the uncertainty and excitement surrounding the league’s future.
Support the show: http://www.youtube.com/@stephenasmith
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Stephen A. Smith
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