The Herd with Colin Cowherd THE HERD - Hour 1 - Lakers need to let LeBron James go, MLB players happy the Dodgers are spending money
Feb 17, 2026
He argues the Lakers must choose a timeline and stop building around an aging LeBron, focusing instead on younger stars and roster needs. They debate the Lakers' lack of shooters, athleticism, and need for a rim protector. Discussion shifts to MLB teams applauding the Dodgers for spending to win and how that changes league dynamics.
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Lakers Need A Clear Timeline
- The Lakers have an identity crisis: they haven't chosen a timeline or direction for rebuilding.
- Colin Cowherd argues they must decide between staying with LeBron or getting significantly younger and more athletic.
Rebuild Around Athleticism And Shooting
- Get younger and add athleticism, shooters, and a rim protector to complement or replace aging stars.
- Prioritize constructing a roster around a chosen timeline rather than accommodating a 41-year-old LeBron's return.
Prime Windows Shrink Quickly
- Aging windows for high-talent but low-effort players close quickly.
- Cowherd compares Luka Doncic to Carmelo Anthony and warns his prime could decline faster without defensive commitment.