No Dunks Podcast Episode Summary
Title: Game 3 Adjustments, Low NBA Finals Ratings & Knicks Coaching Search Mess
Release Date: June 11, 2025
Hosts: Jay Skeets, Tas Melas, Trey Kirby, JD

1. Introduction

In this episode of No Dunks, hosts Jay Skeets, Tas Melas, Trey Kirby, and JD delve into the critical adjustments ahead of Game 3 of the NBA Finals. They also discuss the disappointing ratings for the Finals, the ongoing Knicks coaching search turmoil, and an update on Darius Garland’s injury.

2. NBA Finals Game 3 Adjustments

Series Overview:
The NBA Finals between the Indiana Pacers and the Oklahoma City Thunder is tied 1-1, setting the stage for a pivotal Game 3 in Indianapolis.

Key Adjustments for the Pacers:
Tas Melas emphasizes the need for the Pacers to enhance their performance in the paint and better manage Tyrese Halliburton’s role:

“The biggest adjustment is figuring out a way for Tyrese Halliburton to have an impact.” ([03:35])

Defensive Strategies:
The Thunder have effectively turned off Halliburton and the Pacers’ transition game. Tas suggests reallocating Halliburton’s responsibilities to create more favorable matchups:

“Maybe it's time for Tyrese Halliburton to move off the ball a little bit more often.” ([04:10])

Injury Concerns:
There’s apprehension regarding Halliburton’s lower leg injury. As Trey humorously points out, Halliburton remains vague about the specifics:

“Said it's my lower leg. That's all I'm going to say.” ([05:34])

Offensive Execution:
Tas highlights the Pacers' struggle with three-point defenses, noting that OKC has left too many shots uncontested:

“Only 15 of OKC's 36 shots were defended, so 21 of their shots were uncontested.” ([07:00])

Bench Performance:
Obi Toppin emerges as a crucial player for the Pacers, especially when the starters are at rest. Tas underscores his dual role in three-point shooting and bench play:

“Obi Toppin has to hit his pick and pop threes because those have generally been open.” ([16:19])

X-Factors:
Trey identifies Alex Caruso’s defensive prowess as a significant influence on the series:

“The biggest factor is the Caruso factor on OKC on both ends.” ([18:11])

3. Low NBA Finals Ratings

Current Situation:
Game 2 of the NBA Finals saw the lowest ratings since 2007, drawing only 8.76 million viewers according to Nielsen numbers.

Hosts' Perspectives:

• Trey Kirby: Skeptical about the relevance of Nielsen ratings in the streaming era.

  “Why aren't we into the books here of the NBA to know exactly where games are watched?” ([31:01])

• Tas Melas: Disappointed but understands the shift towards digital streaming.

  “How do you count all that? It’s literally impossible.” ([35:40])

The Athletic's Spin:
The NBA claims over 1 billion views across social media platforms, although the hosts question the accuracy and inclusivity of these numbers.

Market Considerations:
Small market teams like the Thunder may contribute to lower traditional TV ratings despite strong performance.

4. Knicks Coaching Search Mess

Current Status:
The New York Knicks have denied permission for conversations with potential head coaches, including Jason Kidd:

“The Knicks requested permission Wednesday morning to speak to Mavericks coach Jason Kidd. And Dallas gave a firm rejection.” ([38:00])

Analysis of Decisions:
Tas Melas critiques the Knicks’ impulsive firing of Tom Thibodeau without a clear successor, highlighting inconsistent team-building strategies:

“After going to the conference finals for the first time in a quarter of a century, it just feels like the Knicks were pretty... pretty boring.” ([40:00])

Potential Candidates:
The discussion touches on other coaching prospects like Chris Finch and Ime Udoka, questioning the Knicks' approach to recruiting top coaching talent.

Hosts' Opinions:

• Trey Kirby: Suggests the Knicks may eventually find a suitable coach but acknowledges the current chaos.

  “They didn’t have one planned out.” ([40:52])

• Jay Skeets: Points out the unusual nature of denying access to highly sought-after coaches.

  “They’re getting just shot down.” ([43:12])

5. Injury Update: Darius Garland

Scenario:
Darius Garland of the Cleveland Cavaliers is undergoing toe surgery, sidelining him for 4-5 months.

Implications for the Cavaliers:
Trey Kirby discusses the impact of Garland’s absence on the team’s backcourt dynamics and trade possibilities:

“This indicates that they're going to try and go forward again with Garland and Mitchell in the backcourt.” ([55:18])

Hosts' Insights:

• Tas Melas: Suggests that Garland's injury makes him less tradeable, potentially keeping him with the team.

  “It probably means Garland is sticking in Cleveland.” ([58:46])

• Jay Skeets: Considers how the Cavaliers might adjust their roster around Garland’s recovery.

6. Prime Moment of the Week: Victor Wembanyama

Wembanyama’s Off-Court Activities:
Tas Melas shares a lighthearted moment involving Victor Wembanyama (Wemby), who recently challenged a local teen to a game of HORSE and visited a Shaolin temple in China:

“Wemby was suddenly everywhere... he looks amazing.” ([60:05])

Hosts' Reactions:
The hosts humorously discuss Wemby’s shaved head and his dedication to both physical and mental preparation:

“Does he listen to the Wu Tang Clan?” ([61:02])

7. Conclusion

The hosts wrap up the episode by reiterating the importance of Game 3 in the NBA Finals and expressing anticipation for the upcoming discussions. They encourage listeners to engage with the podcast on various platforms and look forward to dissecting the outcomes of the crucial game.

Notable Quotes:

• Jay Skeets on Game 3's significance:

  “The team that goes on to win game three is like 32 and 8.” ([02:11])

• Tas Melas on Pacers’ defensive adjustments:

  “Everybody's talking about it, himself included. I got to do more in the first half of these games and that's absolutely true.” ([04:00])

• Trey Kirby on the importance of scoring:

  “They have to get to 110 points. That's what Halliburton did with that game-winning shot.” ([29:38])

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights from the No Dunks podcast episode, providing listeners with a clear understanding of the topics covered without needing to listen to the full episode.