Podcast Summary: No Dunks Episode – "Pacers Continue To Make Everyone Look Foolish & Ranking Durant Trades"

Release Date: June 12, 2025
Host(s): Skeets, Tas, Trey, JD

1. Introduction and Overview

In this episode of No Dunks, hosted by Skeets, Tas, Trey, and JD, the panel dives deep into the latest NBA Finals action, focusing on the Indiana Pacers' impressive performance against the Oklahoma City Thunder and discusses the potential trade scenarios surrounding Kevin Durant.

2. Indiana Pacers vs. Oklahoma City Thunder Game Analysis

a. Key Performances and Players

The Pacers showcased remarkable teamwork, particularly from role players TJ McConnell and Benedict Matheran. McConnell's defensive prowess was a game-changer, enabling Matheran to score efficiently off his steals.

• Skeet (04:13):
  “I want to start with TJ McConnell, but not just because of the steals, but I think he was the one who got Benedict Matheran.”

• Trey (07:48):
  “I felt like I was cooking yesterday.”

b. Turning Points and Key Plays

The game featured several pivotal moments:

• McConnell's multiple steals disrupted Thunder’s offense, repeatedly putting pressure on the team.

• Matheran's offensive efficiency, scoring 27 points off the bench, was instrumental in the Pacers' victory.

• Defensive strategies, especially closing out on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, limited Thunder’s scoring opportunities.

• Tass (07:48):
  “The Pacers retook the lead in the finals with the 116-107 victory. It was the Pacers' best offensive game and best defensive game of the series.”

c. Defensive Mastery

The Pacers' defense effectively contained Thunder's key players, leading to turnovers and missed opportunities.

• Trey (09:09):
  “They were on a string. They obviously, the pressure, like picking up full court.”

• Skeet (21:43):
  “Pascal Siakam getting love to TJ McConnell’s granddad.”

d. Player Highlights

• TJ McConnell:
  Achieved a standout performance with 10 points, five assists, and five steals in just 15 minutes.

• Benedict Matheran:
  Scored 27 points with high efficiency, contributing significantly both offensively and defensively.

• Obi Toppin:
  Made crucial plays, including blocks and defensive rebounds, helping to maintain the Pacers' lead.

• Miles Turner:
  Struggled offensively throughout the game, contributing only one basket in the fourth quarter due to apparent fatigue.

e. Strategic Insights

The Pacers’ ability to maintain stamina and execute defensive strategies in the fourth quarter contrasted sharply with Thunder's waning energy and strategic lapses.

• Tass (12:33):
  “They had more left in the tank at the end. And I was like, it's one of those games where you're like, I want to get a basketball in my hand.”

3. Fan and Miscellaneous Observations

a. Courtside Sightings

Notable figures such as Reggie Miller and Oscar Robertson were spotted in the stands, adding to the game's vibrant atmosphere.

• Trey (37:58):
  “Reggie Miller was catching some eyes courtside in Indiana last night wearing a Mark Jackson jersey over a hooded sweatshirt.”

b. Referee Performance

The panel praised the Pacers' crowd for their unified support in challenging referee decisions, particularly criticizing certain calls that favored the home team.

• Tass (44:18):
  “It was so perfect. I thought... Way to tell those refs you suck.”

c. Memorable Moments

Humorous and memorable moments included discussions about fan outfits, particularly JD’s neighborly basketball obsession and Reggie Miller’s unique attire.

4. Ranking Kevin Durant's Potential Trades

With Kevin Durant's future trade imminent, the panel examined five primary teams rumored to be interested: Houston Rockets, San Antonio Spurs, Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves, and New York Knicks. They evaluated each team's likelihood of acquiring Durant and the potential trade packages involved.

a. New York Knicks – Least Likely

Despite speculation, the Knicks are considered the least likely destination due to salary cap constraints and the improbability of trading key players like Karl-Anthony Towns.

• Tass (59:26):
  “If you're not trading Karl Anthony Towns for kd, then it gets really difficult to get a package that makes sense for the Knicks.”

b. Miami Heat

The Heat are always linked with high-profile acquisitions. However, securing Durant would require significant assets, potentially including high-value draft picks and promising young players.

• Skeet (60:22):
  “Tyrese Halliburton doing the Big balls dance, which said overrate Ds.”

c. Minnesota Timberwolves

A Durant addition would pair him with Anthony Edwards, providing a formidable backcourt. However, the complexity of the trade, including the Timberwolves' existing commitments, makes it challenging.

• Trey (65:09):
  “I love the idea of Kevin Durant on the Timberwolves as somebody else who can get a shot off with the ball in his hands.”

d. Houston Rockets

Ranked as a more feasible option, the Rockets could offer Jalen Green, Jabari Smith Jr., and future draft picks in exchange for Durant. This trade could rejuvenate both teams, with Durant adding scoring prowess to an already talented Rockets roster.

• Tass (70:02):
  “They have the number 10 pick in this draft. 2026, they have their own pick.”

• Skeet (76:00):
  “I like the Rockets better. The Rockets trade better. I think it complements Devin Booker a little more.”

e. San Antonio Spurs – Most Likely

The Spurs are viewed as the top destination for Durant, given his connection to Texas and the team's willingness to make significant moves. A trade package could include players like Devin Vassell, Jeremy Sochan, Harrison Barnes, and a future draft pick.

• Trey (76:00):
  “I can't believe their odds went down. Start.”

• Tass (77:30):
  “If you're the Rockets, you want them to sell.”

• Skeet (85:21):
  “So, yeah, you’re getting back two players to complement Devin Booker and you’re getting a pick.”

5. Wild Card Suitors and Additional Scenarios

Beyond the top five teams, the panel considered Milwaukee Bucks and Toronto Raptors as wild card options. However, these deals would likely involve more complex multi-team trades, making them less probable.

• Skeet (81:27):
  “I think the Milwaukee Bucks are definitely a wild card.”

• Trey (82:19):
  “The wild card team is the Toronto Raptors. For me, they got an easy trade to make.”

6. Predictions and Future Outlook

As the Pacers look to secure their position in the finals, the hosts expressed optimism about their chances of winning the championship, drawing parallels to the 2011 Dallas Mavericks' underdog victory.

• Tass (52:07):
  “It's pretty amazing, this run.”

• Trey (85:45):
  “It's a lot of information there, but like that's... That's special.”

Additionally, the panel anticipated an intense Game Four and hinted at possible future episodes focusing on the evolving finals series.

7. Notable Quotes

• Skeet (04:13):
  “I want to start with TJ McConnell, but not just because of the steals, but I think he was the one who got Benedict Matheran.”

• Trey (07:48):
  “I felt like I was cooking yesterday.”

• Tass (07:48):
  “The Indiana Pacers will not go away after being outplayed in game two of the finals.”

• Skeet (21:43):
  “Pascal Siakam giving love to TJ McConnell's granddad.”

• Tass (44:18):
  “Way to tell those refs you suck.”

• Skeet (76:00):
  “I like the Rockets better. The Rockets trade better.”

8. Closing Remarks

The hosts wrapped up the episode by inviting listeners to share their thoughts on Durant’s potential trades and teased a follow-up discussion on Game Four scheduled for Saturday morning. They emphasized the unpredictability of the NBA Finals and the excitement surrounding the Pacers' underdog journey.

• Trell (89:24):
  “Have a great time.”

Conclusion:
This episode of No Dunks provided an in-depth analysis of the Pacers' strategic triumph over the Thunder and offered a comprehensive ranking of potential destinations for Kevin Durant. The hosts combined statistical insights with passionate commentary, delivering a rich and engaging discussion for NBA enthusiasts.