The Herd with Colin Cowherd THE HERD - Hour 3 - Mark Medina Talks Lakers Rise and Rockets Mess
Mar 17, 2026
Mark Medina, veteran NBA writer known for Lakers and Warriors coverage, breaks down the league's biggest storylines. He explains the Lakers' recent surge and lineup clarity. He analyzes Luka's MVP-level play and Detroit’s contenders. He dissects the Rockets' chemistry woes and Kevin Durant's fit. He also weighs Wembanyama's rise and playoff readiness of young teams.
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Lakers Surge From Clarity And Availability
- The Lakers' recent surge combines improved chemistry, clearer roles, and better availability after early-season injuries.
- Marcus Smart's defensive presence and DeAndre Ayton's uptick, plus more consistent rotations, made their offense and defense click.
Rockets Problems Go Beyond Kevin Durant
- Houston's struggles are systemic: missing Fred VanVleet's ball-handling, inconsistent three-point shooting, and Alperen Sengun's uneven play.
- Kevin Durant acknowledged inefficiency but Medina pins much blame on roster fit and spacing rather than solely on Durant.
Durant Still Elite Efficiency Despite Turmoil
- Kevin Durant remains an extremely efficient scorer post-Achilles; his perceived decline is more about surrounding roster construction and availability.
- Medina emphasizes Durant's efficiency compared to other all-time scorers despite team turbulence.