Episode Summary: Celtics-Blazers Trade Grades, Mavs Extend Gafford & Will Suns Keep Jalen Green?
Release Date: June 24, 2025
Hosts: Tas Melas, Trey Kirby, JD
Podcast: No Dunks by The Athletic
Introduction
In this episode of "No Dunks," hosts Tas Melas and Trey Kirby dive deep into several pivotal NBA off-season moves. The discussion centers around the unexpected trade between the Boston Celtics and Portland Trail Blazers, the Dallas Mavericks' extension of Daniel Gafford, and the Phoenix Suns' deliberation on retaining Jalen Green. Their expert analysis provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of how these transactions could shape the upcoming NBA season.
Celtics-Blazers Trade Grades
Key Trade Details:
- Celtics Acquire: Anthony Simons and two second-round picks
- Blazers Acquire: Drew Holiday
- Trade Announcement: Unanticipated and set to be official on July 6th
Discussion Highlights:
Surprise Element of the Trade
Tas opens the discussion by highlighting the unexpected nature of the Celtics-Blazers trade involving Drew Holiday.
"Drew Holiday dealt to the Portland Trailblazers. No one saw this coming." [04:04]
Motivations Behind the Trade
Trey explains that the trade aligns with the Celtics' financial strategy, especially following Jason Tatum's injury concerns.
"Celtics trying to get under the second apron following Jason Tatum's injury, they were going to be up against it financially even if Tatum was playing next season." [04:35]
Impact on Team Dynamics
The trade brings veteran leadership to Portland, potentially aiding in the development of young talents like Scoot Henderson.
"Drew Holiday, like that veteran idea we talked about with Chauncey Billups, is going to be there for Scoot Henderson." [05:43]
Evaluating Anthony Simons
Simons brings added offensive capabilities with his three-point shooting but poses questions on defensive contributions.
"Anthony Simons is a skinny guy, he's a super great athlete, but he's not really bringing much on the defensive side." [07:16]
Long-term Implications
Both teams might continue their respective strategies—Celtics leaning towards offensive upgrades and Blazers balancing veterans with emerging talent.
"Boston is just deciding we're going all in on offense for at least one year." [09:49]
Notable Quotes:
- Tas Melas: "Everybody questioning, why are you going to get Jrue Holiday for three more years under his contract?" [05:43]
- Trey Kirby: "If Scoot Henderson turns into a Drew Holiday-like defender, this deal was 100% worth it." [16:24]
Mavericks Extend Daniel Gafford
Contract Details:
- Player: Daniel Gafford
- Extension: Three years
- Total Value: $54 million
Discussion Highlights:
Evaluating the Extension
Trey views the extension as a positive move, providing Gafford with stability and potentially increasing his trade value.
"He's a good starting center, a good backup center. This is a good contract for him." [25:09]
Impact on Mavericks' Roster
Gafford's versatility is seen as beneficial, especially with the Mavericks dealing with injuries to key players like Kyrie Irving.
"Anthony Davis insurance and the fact that he's still trade eligible, I think it's really good." [26:43]
Future Trade Considerations
Potential trade scenarios include pairing Gafford with other centers like Deandre Ayton or Robert Williams, depending on team needs and cap considerations.
"They need cards desperately so I don't know where it comes from." [27:03]
Notable Quotes:
- Trey Kirby: "This is good business for everybody. Really." [26:43]
- Tas Melas: "He's a solid guy pulling all the right moves." [26:56]
Will Suns Keep Jalen Green?
Key Considerations:
- Player: Jalen Green
- Team: Phoenix Suns
- Concern: Balancing with Devin Booker and potential trade speculations
Discussion Highlights:
Team Fit and Chemistry
Tas and Trey analyze whether Jalen Green can effectively share the ball with Devin Booker without disrupting team dynamics.
"Can he and Devin Booker share the ball and do it?" [43:43]
Performance Analysis
While Green showcased strong regular-season performances, playoff struggles raise questions about his consistency and fit in high-stakes games.
"You can go through lots of positives. He plays a lot. He plays every game." [46:58]
Trade Speculations
Potential scenarios include Phoenix considering a buyout or trade, especially if Green's performance doesn't align with team expectations.
"This is going to be the biggest buyout in NBA history." [49:54]
Future Prospects
The Suns may explore trading options involving Bradley Beal or leveraging their number 10 draft pick to recalibrate their roster for better balance.
"They could use an upgrade over Nick Richards, I do believe." [52:07]
Notable Quotes:
- Trey Kirby: "It's, it just doesn't really make sense to me." [46:59]
- Tas Melas: "It's very unlikely." [50:37]
Other Transactions and Insights
Chris Middleton's Player Option
- Team: Washington Wizards
- Action: Middleton picks up his player option to stay.
- Impact: Provides veteran leadership and shooting for the Wizards.
"They have a smart guy in Chris Middleton. He's going to show them how to be professionals." [30:00]
Kevin Durant's Trade to Houston Rockets
- Details: Durant traded to the Rockets for Jalen Green, Dylan Brooks, a number 10 pick, and five second-round picks.
- Implications: Rockets bolster their offense with Durant, significantly enhancing their championship prospects.
"This is a big time win for the Rockets." [34:25]
Knicks' Coaching Search
- Status: New York Knicks are interviewing candidates, including Micah Nori.
"We're monitoring them and will provide updates as they happen." [57:14]
Notable Quotes:
- Trey Kirby: "The relationship with Carl Anthony Towns is very nice." [57:17]
- Tas Melas: "I'm looking forward to seeing what happens there over the next even couple [of] days." [53:52]
Conclusion
Tas and Trey wrap up the episode by reflecting on the dynamic off-season moves and their potential impacts on the NBA landscape. They express anticipation for upcoming drafts and further trade developments, promising listeners more in-depth analysis in future episodes.
"It's going to be tough to play those dudes. So it's going to make for an entertaining first round of the draft." [56:16]
Stay tuned to "No Dunks" for continued coverage and expert insights into all things NBA as the season approaches!