THE HERD - Hour 1 - Dodgers continue to dominate, new NBA player's poll

The Herd with Colin Cowherd41mApril 14, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

In this hour-long episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, the focus centers on the Dodgers' dominant performance against the Mets, highlighting how their depth and culture allow them to succeed despite not having the highest payroll. Cowherd argues that payroll disparity is overblown, pointing out that the Yankees and Mets—combined with nearly $700 million in payroll—have lost 11 of their last 12 games and can't hit. He contrasts this with the Dodgers’ disciplined, well-run organization, where even defensive players like Andy Pajes are leading the team offensively. The discussion then shifts to the NBA, where an anonymous player poll reveals that the New York Knicks are not seen as title contenders by their peers, with Jalen Brunson not considered a true franchise player. Cowherd debates this, arguing the Knicks are a top-tier team with elite offensive efficiency and a strong defense, and that player polls can be misleading. He also explores the legacy of Kevin Durant and Aaron Rodgers, comparing them as generational talents who thrive individually but lack traditional leadership qualities. The episode closes with a detailed NFL draft preview, analyzing top prospects like David Bailey, Caleb Downs, and Jeremiah Love, with predictions on team strategies and trade scenarios.

Key Takeaways
1

Payroll doesn't guarantee success—culture and execution do, as seen in the Dodgers' dominance over the Mets despite lower payroll.

2

Player polls can reveal truths about team perception, but shouldn't override on-field performance and analytics.

3

Jalen Brunson, while a great player, is not viewed as a true franchise cornerstone by fellow NBA players.

4

Kevin Durant and Aaron Rodgers are elite talents but lack traditional leadership traits, which may limit their legacy impact.

5

Caleb Downs is a high-IQ, high-EQ safety with leadership potential, making him a top-tier pick despite positional value concerns.

…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:00
5 min

Intro & Sponsor Segments

The episode begins with multiple iHeartRadio podcast promos and station branding, including The Girlfriends, Mostly Human, Serving Pancakes, and Playing Along. These serve as pre-roll content before the main show begins.

5:00
5 min

Dodgers' Dominance & Payroll Paradox

The Dodgers' best hitter is Andy Pajes, a defensive outfielder. He's hitting .400. Five jacks, 20 RBIs. I think that leads Major League Baseball.

Highlight
10:00
10 min

NBA Player Poll: Knicks & Franchise Stars

If Brunson's your best player, you're not a finals team. Even in the beat up East this year.

Highlight
20:00
10 min

Kevin Durant & Aaron Rodgers: The Lone Wolves

They're kind of riddles. They're kind of independent. The leadership qualities could be debated from both.

Highlight
30:00
10 min

NFL Draft Preview: Top Prospects & Team Strategy

Caleb Downs is a high-IQ, high-EQ player. You fill the position for 10 years.

Highlight
High-Impact Quotes
The Dodgers' best hitter is Andy Pajes, a defensive outfielder. He's hitting .400. Five jacks, 20 RBIs. I think that leads Major League Baseball.
Colin Cowherd4:32
Viral: 85.0
If Brunson's your best player, you're not a finals team. Even in the beat up East this year.
Colin Cowherd13:00
Viral: 82.0
They're kind of riddles. They're kind of independent. The leadership qualities could be debated from both.
Colin Cowherd35:12
Viral: 78.0
Speakers

Host

Colin Cowherd

Guests

Nick WrightChris BroussardAlbert BreerGreg Cosell
Topics Discussed
Dodgers dominance95%NFL draft analysis92%NBA player poll90%Jalen Brunson and Knicks88%Caleb Downs prospect profile87%Kevin Durant legacy85%David Bailey pick prediction83%Aaron Rodgers offseason80%
People & Brands

Dodgers

other

24xPositive

Mets

other

18xNegative

Jalen Brunson

person

15xMixed

New York Knicks

other

14xMixed

Colin Cowherd

person

12xNeutral

Yankees

other

12xNegative

Caleb Downs

person

12xPositive

David Bailey

person

10xPositive

Kevin Durant

person

10xPositive

Aaron Rodgers

person

9xNeutral

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