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.

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