The Pat McAfee Show Live | Wednesday June 10th 2026

Carmelo Anthony, a renowned shooter, asserts that while the NBA has shifted towards three-pointers, the mid-range shot remains the most effective and crucial shot in the playoffs. He describes it as a 'rhythm shot' that opens up the game when defenses run teams off the three-point line, requiring skill and precision that many players avoid.

Carmelo Anthony states, "I just think it it always comes back to to that mid-range game... when teams run you off the three, the best shot is the mid-range shot... it's the most effective shot that you could possibly take because it's a rhythm shot."

TJ Oshie, a Stanley Cup champion, explains that in high-scoring NHL finals, goals are often a result of defensive system breakdowns rather than individual goalie errors. He highlights how Vegas's system protects the interior, and when pucks go through the middle, it indicates defensive lapses, not necessarily a need for a goalie change.

TJ Oshie details, "Vegas is very good at protecting the center of the ice. And last night, the first four goals when there was a goalender in the net, the puck somehow went through the middle of the ice every time... I don't blame any any of these goals on Carter Hart."

Carmelo Anthony and Chris Paul reflect on LeBron James's recent statement about being the number one pick over any other NBA legend. They agree that this competitive mindset is inherent to elite athletes, especially those who have achieved so much, and reflects a state of comfort where he no longer needs to prove anything but still loves the game.

Carmelo Anthony comments, "I just think he he's in a state now where it's like I don't have to prove nothing to anybody... competitively, no one is going to say, 'Oh, I'm not going to say somebody is better than me.'"

Chris Paul observes the young San Antonio Spurs, led by Victor Wembanyama, are experiencing significant 'growing pains' on the biggest stage. Despite their youth, they are forced to learn and adapt quickly, understanding that opportunities to reach the finals are not guaranteed, emphasizing the need to 'seize the moment.'

Chris Paul states, "You you definitely watching them make their growing pains while they're still in it... they know that they have to learn really fast and figure it out really fast because these opportunities don't come around for everybody."

Zac Brown discusses his upcoming performance at UFC Freedom 250, emphasizing that the event is about patriotism and honoring troops, not politics. He expresses excitement for the historic nature of the first sporting event on the White House lawn, highlighting the massive scale and the opportunity to celebrate America.

Zac Brown declares, "Man, I'm there for the troops, man. I'm there to honor America. I'm there this is patriotism, not politics for me... Having the first sporting event that's on the lawn of the White House. I mean, it's an honor."