“I think they’ve got to get a big with that small ball lineup. I’m a fan of Draymond, but I just don’t think that’s going to hold up anymore. He can’t guard Jokic and all them dudes for a long period of time,” Jeff Teague said, via Club 520 podcast.

Although Draymond Green has consistently ranked among the league’s elite defenders, he often faces challenges when playing center against larger opponents. Jeff contends that the issue is not Green’s talent but his fit with the team’s needs. As the former NBA star considers that the team requires a big man in his position who also possesses the versatility to enhance its defensive strength.

Draymond Green’s performances in recent years have been impeccable, making him a strong counterargument to Jeff Teague’s thoughts. During the 2024-25 season, the 35-year-old veteran delivered his best statistical output in six years. Across 68 games, he averaged 9 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game, securing a third-place finish in the 2025 DPOY. His consistent excellence underscores his vital role under the guidance of the seasoned head coach.

Golden State Warriors lean on upcoming arrivals to bring consistency

Considering Draymond Green’s 13-year tenure with the Golden State Warriors, his departure seems improbable. His vital role in both the team’s dynamics and the city’s sports culture secures his place in Steve Kerr’s lineup. For that reason, the franchise remains hopeful that upcoming roster additions will provide the stability needed for the 2025-26 season.

While the Golden State Warriors have yet to make official announcements regarding new signings, NBA insider Jake L. Fischer indicates that the team has agreements with De’Anthony Melton, Gary Payton II, and Al Horford. This strategic move suggests the Warriors are focusing on lineup restructuring rather than navigating the challenging decision of parting ways with Draymond Green, an iconic figure whose departure would not be taken lightly.

“I think that’s what makes him so great is that he can elevate teams. You know how I feel about Kevin Durant, I think he’s one of the best players ever, but I don’t think he has the ability to take a questionable team and elevate them dudes to a certain level,” Jeff Teague said, via Club 520 Podcast.

While Teague chose to criticize Durant, Mike Budenholzer, in his tenure as the Phoenix Suns’ head coach, opted to commend Kevin’s leadership style. “I’ve been blown away with Kevin as a practice player… He goes hard, he goes hard in everything he does. I think that’s probably the most important thing to leadership, leading by example,” he said as reported by AZ Central.

Not only Mike, but also his former offensive teammate Devin Booker came out to refute criticism of his lack of vocal leadership. “He’s one of the greatest to ever do it… He’s more vocal than what people say he is, but he also leads by example every day. He’s the loudest one in practice and first in every drill. The pace of his individual workouts is second to none.”

Over his long career, Kevin Durant has dismissed the notion that he lacks leadership, asserting that true leadership comes from setting an example through dedication and performance, traits no one can deny. With the Golden State Warriors, he exemplified this approach, leading them to two NBA championships while earning two Finals MVP awards. Although not the vocal leader, Durant’s impact on the court spoke volumes.

In a revealing 2017 interview with GQ magazine, Kevin Durant candidly discussed his unique leadership style. He stated, “I’m not a leader. I’m bad at saying, ‘Stand behind me and follow me.’ No. I’m one of those guys that’s just like, ‘Let’s do this shit together. Let’s just work everybody together. I don’t mind being on the front line with you, but let’s come and do it together.’ That’s my way of leadership. I’m leading by example.”

Throughout his career, Kevin has demonstrated that leadership does not require shouting and that multiple leaders can coexist on the court, each with a unique style. As a veteran, he joins the Rockets with no need to prove anything—he has already surpassed expectations and fulfilled his potential. Now, with his extensive experience, he has the chance to significantly impact a franchise that has lacked a figure of his caliber to elevate them in the postseason.

“The reason I say he’s (Paolo Banchero) better than Wemby is because Wemby ain’t really did nothing. We just like Wemby because he’s a freak… He’s a phenomenal player, but I’m just going to go with what I see,” Jeff Teague said, via Club 520 podcast.

While Jeff’s statements stirred controversy, Paolo Banchero has firmly established himself as one of the league’s premier talents. Playing for the Orlando Magic, he clinched the Rookie of the Year award and led the franchise offensively by averaging an impressive 25.9 points per game during the 2024-25 season.

Despite Paolo’s undeniable talent, many fans strongly oppose Teague’s perspective, favoring Victor Wembanyama as the superior player. Statistically, the Spurs‘ standout has surpassed Banchero in points, rebounds, steals, and blocks on average since his debut. Additionally, the Spurs star has maintained an impressive three-point shooting efficiency of 35.2%, outperforming the Magic star.

Victor Wembanyama still working to recover peak shape after season-ending injury

Despite an impressive rookie season, his sophomore year faced an untimely setback due to deep vein thrombosis, limiting his campaign to just 46 games. Fortunately, he is set to rejoin the San Antonio Spurs for the 2025-26 season. To ensure a robust return, he pivoted his summer focus away from basketball to embrace an unconventional training regimen.

In an interview with L’Equipe, Victor revealed his surprising summer dedication to Kung Fu. “We were initiated there into the life of a warrior monk, which combines Buddhism and intensive kung fu practice… We used muscles that we rarely used and which were quickly overloaded,” he said.

Additionally, NBA insider Michael C. Wright reports that Wembanyama believes this Kung Fu training will significantly improve his body positioning and range of motion, elements crucial for a successful comeback.

“I think they should go all the way tank. Like at some point, somebody has to get the first-round pick. So everybody’s superstar got hurt. We know, to us, it’s somewhat rigged right? So Boston lost JT. Milwaukee lost Dame. Indiana Pacers lost Tyrese. The drop off for the Pacers is going to be so much more drastic because from going from the Finals, losing your star player, the drop off is going to be like…compared to everybody else,” Jeff Teague said, via On the Club 520 podcast.

Teague’s remarks have stirred a divide among Pacers fans. Many criticize the idea as an uncompetitive approach, effectively conceding the season. However, some fans find merit in the strategy, particularly following the confirmed season-long absence of Tyrese Haliburton for the 2025-26 NBA season. His absence could significantly weaken the team compared to the previous season, leading some to support Jeff’s suggestion.

Moreover, former Milwaukee Bucks player Jeff Teague suggests that the Pacers could strategically aim for the No. 2 draft pick by tanking, potentially securing a standout talent. This speculation gains traction not only with Tyrese Haliburton’s injury but also due to Myles Turner‘s recent move to the Milwaukee Bucks via free agency. Despite the growing fan interest in Teague’s idea, the Pacers have a well-defined strategy in place.

The Indiana Pacers have reached an agreement to re-sign James Wiseman. As reported by Tony East on X, formerly Twitter, his contract is for two years. He also added that the contract includes a team option in the second year. Although injuries have affected his career, he has already shown he has the ability to perform in the league. In Turner’s absence, he would have the best opportunity to earn a spot on the starting lineup.

With recent roster additions, many fans argue against tanking, suggesting the team is stronger than it appears. Star players like Pascal Siakam can make a notable impact, especially in the postseason. The team’s success in the 2024-25 season relied not only on its star players but also on a deep and capable rotation. For these reasons, supporters believe that pursuing competitiveness is the right path for the 2025-26 NBA season.

“Bron ain’t playing for real no more,” said Jeff Teague on the Club 520 Podcast. He backed his claim by drawing from his own experience facing James in the league: “I played against LeBron enough times. That (expletive) don’t give a (expletive) no more.”

Teague elaborated on why he believes the Lakers star wasn’t playing seriously in the games against Minnesota. “He shot a step-back three and hit the side of the backboard. I was like, ‘Yeah, Bron ain’t playing for real.’ Because usually Bron just puts his head down and drives,” said the former Atlanta Hawks point guard.

And it wasn’t just LeBron’s on-court decisions that convinced Jeff—his demeanor during the games raised red flags as well. “When have you ever seen Bron, in the middle of a playoff game, laughing and joking?” he asked.

“He don’t give a (expletive) about this (expletive). He’s like, ‘Bro, my son is here, I ain’t tripping on this (expletive),’” added the 2021 Milwaukee Bucks champion. “You can do whatever you want, I don’t give a (expletive).”

Was LeBron unhappy with the Lakers’ roster?

In the same conversation, Jeff Teague addressed LeBron James’ apparent lack of motivation and speculated it may stem from not believing in the Lakers’ chances this year: “I don’t think he thinks they can win another one,” said the former guard.

In the postgame press conference following the Lakers’ loss to the Timberwolves on Wednesday night, LeBron spoke about the departure of Anthony Davis and seemed to echo some of the thoughts Teague had shared.

James was asked how the lack of a center impacted the team this season. “No comment,” began the four-time NBA champion. “I never say that because my guy AD said what he needed, and then he was gone the following week. I’ve got no comment. I put that uniform on every night and gave everything I had and that’s all that matters.”

In a recent episode of the Club 520 Podcast, a listener remarked that O’Neal would not have the same success in today’s NBA that he had during his playing days and might be overshadowed by Jokic. Teague immediately reacted, saying: “Boy, you crazy as hell! Have you ever seen Shaq?”

Jeff then recalled what the Lakers legend was like during his early NBA years. “Y’all don’t know, Shaq,” he said. “When he was 22, he was faster than Jokic, jump higher than Jokic, just as skilled. You all crazy as hell.”

Teague also delved into the idea of O’Neal playing in the current NBA. “Can you imagine Shaq? The centers are 6’9” now, Shaq was 300 pounds,” he noted. He then acknowledged, “And I ain’t even the biggest Shaq fan.”

Finally, the NBA champion with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2021 praised O’Neal for his impact on the league. “Shaq was too dominant, it ain’t even close. You had to see Shaq,” said Teague. However, he clarified that these impressive performances were during the center’s peak years, with the Orlando Magic, the Los Angeles Lakers, and the Miami Heat—not during his final years. “Don’t look at the Suns’ Shaq… Go watch Shaq when he was Shaq… Anyway, shout-out to Shaq,” he concluded.

O’Neal’s impact on the NBA

Shaquille O’Neal played in the NBA for 19 seasons, and for much of that time, he was a central figure in the league, on par with the greatest legends to ever play basketball. After being selected as the first overall pick in the 1992 NBA Draft by the Orlando Magic, O’Neal quickly became a key player for the team, averaging more than 23 points per game in his rookie season.

After four seasons in Orlando, Shaq joined the Los Angeles Lakers in 1996, where he formed a successful—and at times controversial—duo with Kobe Bryant. Together, they won three consecutive NBA titles between 2000 and 2002, with the center being named Finals MVP three times and league MVP once. However, conflicts with Bryant led to O’Neal’s departure to the Miami Heat in 2004.

The final great chapter of his career came with the Heat, where, alongside Dwyane Wade, he helped lead the team to their first NBA title in 2006. From there, his performance gradually declined, leaving unmemorable stints with the Phoenix Suns, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Boston Celtics during the latter years of his career.

Shaq’s comparison with Jokic

Four years after Shaquille O’Neal’s retirement, the Denver Nuggets signed Nikola Jokic. The Serbian center entered the NBA in 2015 and, after a brief adjustment period, quickly emerged as one of the league’s brightest talents. A few years later, he had become a permanent All-Star, winning three MVP awards, a Finals MVP, and leading the Nuggets to their first NBA Championship in 2023.

Now in his tenth NBA season, Jokic is averaging 21.5 points per game, 10.9 rebounds, and 7.2 assists. In comparison, Shaquille O’Neal finished his career in 2011 with averages of 23.7 points, 10.9 rebounds, and 2.5 assists.

While the two centers have similar numbers, a key difference lies in Jokic’s versatility, which allows him to break away from the traditional mold of a center and contribute as a playmaker. This is reflected in the significant gap in assists between the two players. To O’Neal’s credit, however, he boasts four NBA titles won with two different teams.

“It’s going to be more contracts like Zion. All these clauses where I don’t have to pay you in case you go rogue…Moment like that could change NBA history. Seeing Jimmy sit out, not want to hoop, shoot one leg 3s… if I’m an owner how can I make sure this don’t happen,” stated Jeff Teague on Club 520 podcast.

Teague’s comments highlight growing concerns among NBA teams regarding player availability and commitment. With Jimmy Butler’s recent situation in Miami, where he reportedly showed little engagement during games, front offices may begin advocating for stricter contract protections.

The New Orleans Pelicans already set a precedent with Zion Williamson’s deal, which it reportedly includes weight and conditioning clauses, and teams could now look to expand such measures to include effort and conduct.

If this trend continues, NBA contracts could undergo significant changes. Guaranteed money has long been a staple of player deals, but owners may now push for safeguards against lack of effort or intentional disengagement. While the players’ union will likely push back, Butler’s situation could mark a turning point in how future stars are compensated.

Is Jimmy Butler the final piece the Warriors need to win another NBA championship?

The Golden State Warriors have struggled this season, currently sitting 11th in the Western Conference, outside both the NBA Playoffs and Play-In Tournament. To address their issues, the team acquired Jimmy Butler, whose versatility and defensive presence could be a key boost. If Butler can regain the form he showed with the Miami Heat, the Warriors will have a strong chance to fight for a playoff spot.

However, the Warriors’ success does not rest solely on Jimmy Butler. It will also depend on Steve Kerr’s ability to elevate the team’s defense, which has been a key weakness. With the offense already anchored by Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Butler, improving their defensive consistency will be crucial for a playoff push.

“It’s time to just break the Warriors up; it ran its course,” Jeff Teague said during the Club 520 Podcast. “It started with Klay, once Klay left. Now it’s time to move on from Draymond,” he added. The former guard, who won an NBA title with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2021, believes Golden State’s once-dominant core may no longer have what it takes to compete at the highest level.

Teague pointed to Draymond Green’s age and years of service with the Warriors as reasons for moving on from the veteran. “I love Dray, but they’ve got to load up, they’ve got to go young,” Teague said. “They’re not about to win anything. It’s over with.”

At 34 years old and in his 13th NBA season, Green has been a cornerstone of the Warriors since his debut in 2012. However, Teague suggests the team’s best path forward may be to prioritize youth and rebuild for the future.

Is there another option for Draymond Green?

While Jeff Teague advocates for a youth movement, he also suggested an alternative to trading Green: making a big splash by acquiring another superstar. “Unless they are about to make some big trade and get another superstar or something… If they can’t do that, they might as well go young,” he explained.

If the Warriors choose to overhaul their roster and focus on the future, it could leave veterans like Green and Stephen Curry at a crossroads. They’d need to decide whether to stay during a rebuild with low title expectations or leave to pursue another championship.

“Ask Steph if he wants to be part of the rebuild, because you’re a legend. You can even ask Draymond. ‘Do y’all want to be a part of this rebuild? We’re going to go young,’” Teague suggested. “I’m sure Draymond is going to say ‘I want to go compete’ and he can go wherever, the Lakers, or wherever, but right now it ain’t looking good.”

Warriors’ current struggles

The Golden State Warriors are facing a tough stretch in the 2024-25 season, continuing their struggles from last year when they missed the Playoffs. Currently sitting in ninth place in the Western Conference with an 18-18 record, the team has dropped six of its last nine games, raising alarms about their ability to contend for a postseason spot.

Their recent loss at Chase Center to the Miami Heat, who played without star Jimmy Butler, has only amplified the criticism surrounding the team’s performance. Even franchise cornerstone Stephen Curry and head coach Steve Kerr have voiced concerns about the Warriors’ current level of play. The inconsistency and lackluster results have left fans and analysts questioning the team’s trajectory.

Despite these challenges, there is still hope for the Warriors. With nearly half the season left to play, they have time to make adjustments and potentially turn things around. However, the team will need significant improvement, both offensively and defensively, to climb back into contention in the tightly contested Western Conference.

The league has shown no desire to go back to the old ways. They still want players to spend at least one year in college or be removed from high school before being eligible.

That’s why Jeff Teague believes it’s a big waste of time. In the latest edition of his podcast, the former All-Star claimed that some players were ready for the pros already.

Jeff Teague calls college a ‘waste of time’

“Some guys like Cooper Flagg, I just feel like they should’ve been able to go out of high school. Like, Ace Bailey should’ve been able to go out of high school. Some of these guys, college is not really benefiting them,” Teague argued.

“You look at a kid like AJ Dybantsa. He getting $7 million for one year, and I think he cold. So I think he gonna go to BYU and have a heck of a year, but he don’t really need to go there,” he added.

At the end of the day, it takes more than just skill to thrive in the NBA. And while we’ve seen players like Dwight Howard, Kobe Bryant, or LeBron James thrive right out of high school, most young players are still raw and need more polishing.

“I think Jalen Williams is a premier player in the league,” Jeff Teague remarked on his Club 520 podcast this week. The 36-year-old, a 2021 NBA champion with the Milwaukee Bucks, praised the young small forward’s impressive performance in his third NBA season and drew comparisons to the Boston Celtics star.

“I compare him to a JB kind of player—Jaylen Brown. I think they’re very similar,” Teague continued, leaving his co-hosts stunned. He elaborated further: “Both can attack the basket really well, capable 3-point shooters, good defenders. I compare them two. I think he’s a young Jaylen Brown.”

Teague’s bold claim didn’t go unchallenged. Co-host Bishop Henn disagreed, arguing, “No, he’s not as good right now. If you put Jalen Williams on a team solo, it’s different than if Jaylen Brown was on the team solo.” Undeterred, Teague doubled down on his stance. “(Expletive), he is (as good as Brown). I’m saying he is,” Teague asserted, adding, “Why not? Go check the stats. You put Jalen Williams on the Celtics right now, it’s going to be the same (expletive).”

Brown vs. Williams: How they compare

Teague’s comparison equates an established NBA star, Jaylen Brown, with a young talent still carving his path in the league, Jalen Williams. Brown has continued his stellar form this season, playing a pivotal role alongside Jayson Tatum in the Celtics’ strong performance.

Brown is averaging 24.5 points per game, ranking as the NBA’s 17th-leading scorer, along with 4.7 rebounds and 2.7 assists. Meanwhile, Williams is making strides as a young star, averaging 21.8 points (35th in the league) and surpassing Brown in rebounds (6.1) and assists (5.0).

While Teague’s claim might be premature, Williams’ numbers at just 23 years old showcase his immense potential. As the Thunder aim to become a dominant force in the Western Conference, Williams could soon solidify himself as one of the league’s brightest stars.

Draymond Green also praises Williams

Teague isn’t the only NBA personality singing Jalen Williams’ praises. Last week, Draymond Green highlighted the Thunder star’s versatility, even ranking him above Tyrese Haliburton in potential. “Jalen is 6’9″, can pass, shoot, get to the cup. Two weeks ago, he played center, then switched to point guard,” Green said on The Draymond Green Show with Baron Davis.

“LeBron needs to rest a little bit, bro. Age is actually catching up with him. It’s the first time I’ve ever seen it like this. He’s really slowing down,” Teague remarked on the Club 520 Podcast, commenting on both the Lakers’ recent struggles and LeBron’s individual performance. Jeff didn’t hold back on his predictions: “I ain’t gonna lie—I think he might retire after this year.”

The NBA champion, who won with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2021, also shared a unique perspective on LeBron’s plans. “I think he wants to do it differently. He’s probably got a documentary going right now, recording everything he’s doing,” Teague speculated. “I can’t see LeBron having a year where he’s not still top 20 in the league.”

Teague isn’t the only one speculating

In addition to Jeff Teague, other prominent basketball figures have recently weighed in on LeBron James’ future in the NBA, especially after his lackluster performances with the Los Angeles Lakers, including their 109-80 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves last Monday.

“We get to a point when you’re a champion where we ask why you’re still playing, as opposed to stepping away on a high,” said Stephen A. Smith on ESPN, referring to LeBron’s current situation. “If you’re the Los Angeles Lakers and you’re not going anywhere, we’re asking… what are you still playing for?”

This statement is especially striking considering that just a few weeks ago, Smith himself had praised LeBron’s performances, calling him “a top-five player on the planet at age 40.” It’s a reminder of how quickly things can change in the dynamic world of the NBA.

LeBron continues to shine

While the criticism of LeBron James‘ recent performances with the Los Angeles Lakers is valid to some extent, it may be overblown when considering the bigger picture, rather than just focusing on his most recent games.

Despite the struggles of the Lakers, LeBron has remained one of the team’s standout players, with only Anthony Davis posting better numbers. In comparison to the rest of the league, LeBron continues to hold a prominent position, even if he’s no longer the dominant force he once was. Currently, he ranks 30th in average minutes played (34.9), 35th in points per game (22.0), and 20th in defensive rebounds (7.1).

These stats show that LeBron still has enough left in the tank to remain a key figure in the NBA and continue playing an important role for the Lakers, all while chasing his fifth NBA title and adding to his already impressive record-breaking career.