Podcast Title: No Dunks
Host/Authors: The Athletic’s Skeets, Tas, Trey, and JD
Episode: Magic Finally Retire Shaq's No. 32, Latest NBA MVP Straw Poll & Which Teams Deserve More Love?
Release Date: February 14, 2024

Introduction and Episode Overview

In this Valentine’s Day special episode of No Dunks, hosts J.E. Skeets, Tas Melis, Trey Kirby, and JD delve into a lively discussion covering recent NBA games, the Orlando Magic’s historic retirement of Shaquille O'Neal's No. 32 jersey, the latest NBA MVP straw poll, and a themed segment celebrating the day of love with unique NBA twists.

Game Recaps

OKC Thunder vs. Orlando Magic

The episode kicks off with a detailed analysis of the OKC Thunder's impressive 127-113 victory over the Orlando Magic on TNT. Hosting players like Jalen Williams (33 points) and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (32 points, 5 assists) showcased their ability to take control in crucial moments.

• Trey Kirby highlights the Thunder's clutch performance, stating, “They are absolutely playing for Digno the way they should be playing. So it was a fun game. Loved it.” ([01:21])
• J.E. Skeets emphasizes Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's dominance in the third quarter: “SGA had 32 and five and they took turns with the takeover… 13 points during a five-minute stretch.” ([02:56])
• Tas Melis praises the Thunder's young roster, noting, “They are pretty lucky to have two absolute nails, crunch time scorers. They have like the three best clutch players in the league.” ([03:34])

Suns vs. Kings

The Suns overcame the Kings 130-125 despite a stellar triple-double from Domantas Sabonis (35 points) and vigorous performances from Devin Booker (40 points) and De’Aaron Fox.

• Tas Melis critiques the Kings' late-game turnovers and the Suns' role player performances: “Royce O'Neal was incredible… Grayson Allen had 19 points and Eric Gordon had 23 points.” ([16:18])

Miami Heat vs. Milwaukee Bucks

In a surprising turn, the Miami Heat routed the Bucks 123-97, with Nikola Jovic (24 points) and Bam Adebayo securing a triple-double. The Heat's effective screen plays and high assist rate (34 assists on 45 shots) were pivotal.

• Tas Melis analyzes Doc Rivers' coaching, saying, “The Heat runs screen after screen… they just know how to pick them apart.” ([22:45])
• Trey Kirby expresses concern over Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard's performances: “If Lillard isn't playing like a superstar, this is not the team that people were expecting.” ([25:06])

Other Recent Games

Additional highlights include:

• Boston Celtics defeating the Brooklyn Nets 118-110, with Jayson Tatum scoring 41 points.
• Minnesota Timberwolves overcoming the Portland Trail Blazers 121-109, anchored by Anthony Edwards’s 41 points.
• Los Angeles Lakers edging out the Detroit Pistons 125-111, led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

Shaquille O'Neal’s Jersey Retirement

A significant portion of the episode honors Shaquille O'Neal’s legacy as the Orlando Magic retire his No. 32 jersey, marking the first year the franchise celebrates a player’s number and Shaq becoming only the second player in NBA history to have his jersey retired by three different teams.

• Trey Kirby reflects on Shaq's heartfelt speech: “He said to the DeVos family, I'll come work here anytime. I'll retire from TNT, no problem.” ([09:31])
• Tas Melis critiques the jersey's presentation: “That's the stupidest thing I've ever seen. That's not the number font that he had when he was a Magic player.” ([10:30])
• The hosts share laughs over Shaq’s humorous anecdotes and endorsements, emphasizing his enduring personality and impact off the court.

NBA MVP Straw Poll Analysis

The discussion shifts to ESPN's latest NBA MVP straw poll, where Nikola Jokić leads, followed by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) and Giannis Antetokounmpo. Notably absent is Joel Embiid due to his knee surgery.

• Tas Melis argues, “Jason Tatum is way too low. I think he should be at least in the top five.” ([29:56])
• J.E. Skeets adds, “He's having his most efficient shooting season of his career… But I will say the names above him are having incredible years too… it's tough.” ([31:35])
• Trey Kirby remains skeptical about Tatum’s placement, suggesting he may be consistently overlooked despite leading one of the best teams: “He was fourth in MVP voting last year. He’ll probably be there again.” ([32:02])
• The hosts discuss the historical significance of Jokić potentially securing his third MVP, placing him among NBA legends like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Magic Johnson.

Valentine’s Day Special Segment

In celebration of Valentine's Day, the hosts engage in a themed segment featuring questions about teams deserving more love, favorite role players, candy heart messages to NBA players, and creative Valentine's Day poems.

Which Team Deserves More Love?

• Tas Melis champions the New Orleans Pelicans for their solid performance despite injuries: “They are 13th in offense and seventh in defense with some really solid wins this season.” ([35:19])

Favorite NBA Role Players

• Trey Kirby highlights Justice Winslow for his versatility and potential return: “He can defend everybody one through five and I'm buying it, he'll make a return to the NBA.” ([42:06])
• Tas Melis picks Andre Drummond for his humorous and effective play: “A career high in points this season. It's rare to see a big guy be a bench bucket.” ([44:35])
• J.E. Skeets selects Malik Monk for his highlight-reel performances and clutch plays: “He can hit you a game winner… he’s always in the top 10 highlights of the night.” ([45:18])

Candy Heart Messages to NBA Players

• Tas Melis sends “Sweet Pea” to Paolo Banchero, praising his athleticism and playmaking: “He's sweet to watch and willing to take the big shots.” ([48:40])
• J.E. Skeets opts for “Chin Up” for Kawhi Leonard, supporting him through his injury: “Chin up. Kawhi is missing games for being hurt.” ([51:53])

Finish the Valentine's Day Poem

• Tas Melis creatively completes, “Roses are red, violets are blue. The Bulls will be back if they win another two.” ([53:05])
• J.E. Skeets crafts a fun, superstar-focused line: “Roses are red, violets are blue. If Jaylen Brown can join the dunk contest, then so can you.” ([54:05])

Closing Remarks and Upcoming Shows

As the episode wraps up, the hosts tease their upcoming content, including live shows from Indianapolis, reactions to All-Star weekend events, and more. They encourage listeners to subscribe, like, and leave five-star reviews to support the podcast.

• J.E. Skeets concludes: “We got a weird schedule coming up here. Lots of content. Make sure you subscribe, hit the like button, leave your boys a five star rating and review until tomorrow.” ([58:49])

Notable Quotes

• J.E. Skeets ([00:20]): “Happy Valentine's Day, you love birds.”
• Trey Kirby ([01:21]): “They are absolutely playing for Digno the way they should be playing.”
• Tas Melis ([29:56]): “Jason Tatum is way too low. I think he should be at least in the top five.”
• J.E. Skeets ([32:47]): “If Jokic wins, he joins a very short list.”
• Trey Kirby ([50:19]): “I'm going old school because, yes, Gumpo is just an old soul.”

Conclusion

This episode of No Dunks offers a comprehensive and engaging dive into recent NBA developments, honoring legendary players, analyzing current standings and performances, and adding a unique Valentine’s Day twist with heartfelt and humorous segments. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, Skeets, Tas, Trey, and JD deliver insightful commentary and entertaining discussions that capture the essence of today's NBA landscape.