Podcast Summary: No Dunks - Episode on Desmond Bane Trade Grades, KD's Future & NBA Finals Stats

Episode Details:

• Title: Desmond Bane Trade Grades, KD's Future & Stats That Explain The NBA Finals
• Host/Author: The Athletic
• Release Date: June 16, 2025

1. Introduction

In this episode of No Dunks, hosted by Jay Skeets, Tas Melis, Trey Kirby, and JD, the panel delves into the significant trade involving Desmond Bane, explores the ongoing Kevin Durant trade rumors, and analyzes key statistics shaping the NBA Finals. The discussion is both insightful and engaging, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the current NBA landscape.

2. Desmond Bane Trade

a. Trade Details

The episode kicks off with an in-depth analysis of the recent trade where the Memphis Grizzlies sent Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic in exchange for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (KCP), Cole Anthony, and multiple first-round draft picks. The trade specifics include:

• Orlando Magic Receive: Desmond Bane
• Memphis Grizzlies Receive: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, four unprotected first-round picks (including the 16th overall pick), and a first-round pick swap with Phoenix protected for top two picks ([04:17]).

b. Analysis for Orlando Magic

The hosts discuss how this trade impacts the Magic’s roster:

• Desmond Bane's Role: Bane brings exceptional three-point shooting (career 41%) and serves as a secondary playmaker. His presence is expected to enhance the Magic's offense, especially alongside players like Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero.

  JD: "Bane is a guy that does miss time... this is a Magic team that was completely banged up last year. ... They are losing some depth. But I'm very excited to see them in the Eastern Conference." ([05:35])

• Concerns: The significant draft capital given up raises questions about the long-term sustainability and flexibility of the Magic's roster. Additionally, Bane’s injury history (missing 24 games in the last three seasons) poses potential risks.

  Trey Kirby: "A first round pick in 2026... it's a lot of draft capital for Desmond Bain." ([04:52])

c. Analysis for Memphis Grizzlies

From the Grizzlies' perspective, the trade offers:

• Flexibility and Future Assets: Acquiring multiple draft picks allows the Grizzlies to rebuild and retool their roster, providing flexibility around key players like Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr.

  Trey Kirby: "This is smart from the Grizzlies to kind of see the writing on the wall like the team we had... it's a win-win trade." ([30:35])

• Team Dynamics: The Grizzlies aim to maintain their core while addressing weaknesses in defense and overall team performance.

d. Trade Grades

The hosts assign trade grades based on the benefits and costs for both teams:

• Orlando Magic: B to B+

  Trey Kirby: "I think it's probably between a B and a B plus... offense-wise, he's a good fit." ([21:59])

• Memphis Grizzlies: A-

  Trey Kirby: "This is an A minus for me... both sides are getting exactly what they want." ([30:35])

e. Comparisons to Other Trades

The panel draws parallels between this trade and the Hawks' acquisition of Dejounte Murray, highlighting similarities in player profiles and trade dynamics.

Jay Skeets: "I wonder if this could be similar to the Hawks trading for Dejounte Murray... it's the same idea." ([16:53])

3. Kevin Durant Trade Rumors

a. Preferred Destinations

The discussion shifts to Kevin Durant and his preferred trade destinations: the Miami Heat, San Antonio Spurs, and Houston Rockets. According to recent reports, KD is committed to these teams for a long-term extension.

b. Potential Trade Scenarios

The hosts analyze the feasibility and implications of Durant joining any of these teams:

• Miami Heat: Likely the most logical destination due to their defensive prowess and existing star players like Bam Adebayo.

  JD: "Miami Heat may be the best package... they would improve their offense." ([36:51])

• San Antonio Spurs & Houston Rockets: These teams are either in rebuild mode or have the flexibility to integrate a star player, though there are challenges related to salary cap and team dynamics.

  Trey Kirby: "It's going to cost whatever it costs for Kevin Durant... it's different scenarios." ([33:29])

• Other Speculations: Teams like the Clippers, Kings, and Timberwolves are mentioned as potential targets but deemed less likely due to various constraints.

Trey Kirby: "Kevin Durant doesn't want to pay taxes or live where it's cold... so bad news for Toronto." ([39:03])

4. Other NBA News

a. Stephen Adams Re-signs with Houston Rockets

The Rockets have secured veteran center Stephen Adams with a three-year, $39 million contract extension, ensuring his stay in Houston and adding stability to their frontcourt.

JD: "He's still good... this is not a crazy contract." ([46:09])

b. Knicks Coaching Search

The New York Knicks are in search of a new head coach, with Mike Brown and Taylor Jenkins being the leading candidates. The panel discusses the strengths and potential impact these coaches could have on the Knicks' future.

Trey Kirby: "Mike Brown has been a successful defensive coach... Taylor Jenkins is good at experimenting with lineups." ([49:29])

5. NBA Finals Game 5 Preview

As the NBA Finals intensify, the hosts examine key statistics that have influenced the series so far and predict their impact on the upcoming pivotal Game 5.

a. Key Statistics Discussed

• Clutch Performance:

  Trey Kirby: "No clutch points scored this series... Indiana is up two to one in these clutch games." ([53:08])

• Three-Point Shooting:

  JD: "The pacers have made 14 more threes than the Thunder... this feels like the Thunder could be that Nuggets team." ([54:55])

• Free Throw Attempts:

  Jay Skeets: "Jalen Williams has had 35 free throw attempts... keeping him effective will be crucial." ([55:41])

b. Predictions and Implications

The panel emphasizes the importance of Game 5, noting that historically, the winner of Game 5 often goes on to win the championship.

JD: "This is big... 17 of the 23 previous series, the winner of game five went on to win the championship." ([55:40])

They anticipate a close and decisive game, with both teams vying to secure their position in the series.

Conclusion

The episode provides a thorough exploration of the Desmond Bane trade, offering balanced perspectives on its immediate and long-term effects for both the Orlando Magic and Memphis Grizzlies. Additionally, the panel navigates the turbulent waters of Kevin Durant's potential moves, shedding light on which teams might benefit most from acquiring him. The NBA Finals discussion encapsulates the critical moments and statistics that define the series' trajectory, setting the stage for an exciting Game 5. Overall, the episode delivers valuable insights for NBA enthusiasts looking to understand the complexities of recent trades and their implications on the league's landscape.

Notable Quotes:

• JD: "Bane is a guy that does miss time... this is a Magic team that was completely banged up last year." ([05:35])
• Trey Kirby: "This is an A minus for me... both sides are getting exactly what they want." ([30:35])
• Trey Kirby: "No clutch points scored this series... Indiana is up two to one in these clutch games." ([53:08])
• JD: "The pacers have made 14 more threes than the Thunder... this feels like the Thunder could be that Nuggets team." ([54:55])
• Jay Skeets: "Jalen Williams has had 35 free throw attempts... keeping him effective will be crucial." ([55:41])

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the critical discussions and insights from the episode, providing a clear and engaging overview for both regular listeners and newcomers to the No Dunks podcast.