Podcast Summary: No Dunks – "Reasons For Optimism For All 30 NBA Teams"

Release Date: July 31, 2025

Hosts:

• J.E. Skeets
• Tass Mellis
• Trey Kirby
• JD (Producer)

Introduction and Farewell

Timestamp: [02:04] – [05:17]

In a heartfelt segment, J.E. Skeets announced that this episode marks the final day of "No Dunks" on The Athletic platform. Reflecting on a successful six-year run with 1,445 episodes, the hosts expressed gratitude towards The Athletic team and their numerous collaborators. Skeets shared, “It was a pretty epic run,” acknowledging the support from figures like Nick Adler and the entire NBA coverage team at The Athletic.

Tass Mellis added, “It was a great start and an emotional start,” highlighting the transition within The Athletic and the impending move to platforms like Apple, Spotify, and YouTube. The hosts reassured listeners that "No Dunks" is not going away, hinting at exciting future announcements.

Northwest Division

Denver Nuggets

Timestamp: [12:30] – [15:20]

Trey Kirby outlined three key reasons for optimism:

1. Enhanced Bench Strength: Introduction of players like Valentunas, Tim Hardaway Jr., Bruce Brown, and the return of Daron Holmes.
2. Cam Johnson’s Potential: With impressive shooting percentages last season, Johnson is poised for a "50-40-90" season alongside Nikola Jokić.
3. Nikola Jokić’s Dominance: Jokić continues to be the cornerstone, bringing unparalleled talent and leadership.

He rated his optimism as an 8.5 out of 10, noting, “This is the best Nuggets team since their title team.”

Skeets humorously referenced Jokić’s offseason activities, stating, “Jokić coming off five years of some of the greatest numbers we've ever seen.”

Minnesota Timberwolves

Timestamp: [15:23] – [19:19]

Tass Mellis highlighted:

1. Anthony Edwards’ Growth: Looking to evolve into a more playmaking role.
2. Julius Randle’s Development: Improved performance post-trade, bolstered by Chris Finch’s coaching.
3. Depth and Future Stars: Emphasis on emerging players like Rob Dillard, TJ Shannon, and Dante DiVincenzo taking on more significant roles.

Skeets added, “Anthony Edwards should keep his clothes on. You know what I'm talking about,” referencing Edwards’ focus and maturity.

Mellis humorously speculated about Rudy Gobert’s potential three-point shooting, enhancing the team’s versatility.

Overall Optimism Rating: 8.5 to 9.8 out of 10

Pacific Division

Golden State Warriors

Timestamp: [35:00] – [38:57]

Trey Kirby expressed optimism based on:

1. Jimmy Butler’s Full Season: Post-trade, Butler contributed significantly, especially defensively.
2. Strong Defensive Metrics: The Warriors maintained the best defense in the league during Butler’s tenure.
3. Potential for Playoff Success: If key players remain healthy, the team could perform well in the playoffs.

However, concerns were raised about the aging roster and the lack of depth:

• Tass Mellis noted, “They’re an old team,” highlighting potential injury issues with veterans like Draymond Green and Al Horford.

Optimism Rating: 6.0 out of 10

Los Angeles Clippers

Timestamp: [37:47] – [41:02]

Trey Kirby highlighted the Clippers’ depth and talent:

1. Strong Backcourt: With James Harden and Chris Paul at point guard.
2. Versatile Roster: Featuring players like Kawhi Leonard, Derrick Jones Jr., and John Collins.
3. Experience and Continuity: Maintaining a consistent lineup to manage player rotations effectively.

Mellis emphasized their sustained success with “14 straight seasons of winning records,” rating optimism at 7 out of 10. However, concerns about the team’s age and long-term viability were discussed.

Phoenix Suns

Timestamp: [84:00] – [88:18]

J.E. Skeets and Tass Mellis discussed the Suns' extensive roster overhaul:

1. New Management and Coaching: Introduction of a new GM and coach aiming for a defensive identity.
2. Youth and Potential: Incorporation of young talents like Jalen Green, Dylan Brooks, and Mark Williams.
3. Low Expectations as an Advantage: Positioned to exceed modest win total predictions through strategic growth.

Optimism Rating: 5.0 to 6.0 out of 10

Southwest Division

Dallas Mavericks

Timestamp: [52:38] – [56:23]

Tass Mellis believed the Mavericks are often overlooked, citing:

1. Young Talent: With rising stars like Cooper Flag and Derek Lively.
2. Balanced Roster: Strong frontcourt featuring PJ Washington and Daniel Gafford.
3. Defensive Prowess: Emphasis on hard defensive play under Coach Jason Kidd.

Optimism Rating: 8.0 out of 10

Houston Rockets

Timestamp: [56:23] – [58:03]

Trey Kirby and Mellis were bullish on the Rockets due to:

1. Strategic Acquisitions: Addition of Kevin Durant and Clint Capella.
2. Depth and Defensive Strength: Reinforcement of their defensive lineup.
3. Cap Space and Future Builds: Potential for significant roster improvements in upcoming seasons.

Optimism Rating: 7.5 out of 10

Central Division

Boston Celtics

Timestamp: [67:55] – [73:18]

Tass Mellis and Skeets discussed a challenging outlook:

1. Roster Changes: Loss of key centers like Porzingis and Horford.
2. Potential Lottery Picks: Possibility of obtaining top draft picks due to a weakened roster.
3. Core Players’ Development: Focus on Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown to lead the team.

Optimism Rating: 5.0 out of 10

Milwaukee Bucks

Timestamp: [73:18] – [82:22]

Trey Kirby highlighted:

1. Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Leadership: Continued dominance and MVP potential.
2. Strategic Additions: Acquisition of Miles Turner to bolster defense.
3. Guard Rotation Improvements: Addressing the lack of strong perimeter play.

Mellis noted, “He has not been asked to be traded and they're trying everything they can to still put some talent around him,” emphasizing Giannis’s pivotal role.

Optimism Rating: 7.0 out of 10

Southeast Division

Atlanta Hawks

Timestamp: [102:19] – [106:14]

Trey Kirby and Mellis expressed strong optimism:

1. Trae Young’s Leadership: Central to the Hawks’ offensive strategy.
2. Defensive Improvements: Building a defense around young talent and strategic acquisitions.
3. Depth and Versatility: Incorporation of players like Jalen Johnson and Zeke Zachary to enhance team dynamics.

Optimism Rating: 8.5 out of 10

Charlotte Hornets

Timestamp: [109:05] – [117:43]

Tash Mellis focused on:

1. Backcourt Synergy: Lamelo Ball and Brandon Miller playing together effectively.
2. Defensive Enhancements: Improvement under Coach Charles Lee.
3. Veteran Guidance: Addition of experienced players like Donovan Mitchell to mentor young talents.

However, concerns remain regarding injuries and the development of key players.

Optimism Rating: 6.0 out of 10

Washington Wizards

Timestamp: [120:34] – [123:56]

J.E. Skeets and Mellis discussed:

1. Youth and Potential: Young roster with high draft picks like Trey Johnson and Will Riley.
2. Cap Flexibility: Significant room to maneuver financially with numerous players on rookie deals.
3. Emerging Talents: Prospects like Bilal Koulibaly and Kam Whitmore showing promise.

Despite the youth, the Wizards face challenges with injuries and the need for player development.

Optimism Rating: 5.0 to 6.0 out of 10

Eastern Conference Highlights

New York Knicks

Timestamp: [77:18] – [92:33]

J.E. Skeets and Mellis discussed:

1. Coaching and Strategy: Implementation of Mike Brown’s playmaking philosophy.
2. Jalen Brunson’s Evolution: Transitioning from a primary scorer to a more playmaking role.
3. Eastern Conference Landscape: Opportunities arising from injuries and underperformance of other teams.

Mellis humorously noted, “Take the over, probably for this team.”

Optimism Rating: 7.0 out of 10

Indiana Pacers

Timestamp: [116:43] – [120:34]

J.E. Skeets highlighted:

1. Improved Player Performance: Growth of players like Andrew Nemhard and Benedict Mathurin.
2. Injury Recovery: Potential return of key players enhancing team strength.
3. Depth and Versatility: Strong roster allowing for competitive play in the Eastern Conference.

Mellis emphasized, “They have so many good guys still.”

Optimism Rating: 6.0 out of 10

Conclusion and Future Outlook

Timestamp: [122:03] – [123:56]

As "No Dunks" wraps up its final episode on The Athletic, the hosts reiterated their commitment to continuing the podcast on new platforms. They teased upcoming content focused on NBA optimism and hinted at exciting new projects, including a Jurassic Park movie franchise discussion. J.E. Skeets concluded, “This is our final show with The Athletic... big announcements coming,” ensuring listeners that "No Dunks" will remain a vibrant source of NBA insights.

Tass Mellis encapsulated the podcast’s ethos, stating, “It’s the summer of reinvention,” signaling a fresh chapter for the show.

Notable Quotes

• J.E. Skeets: “This is the best Nuggets team since their title team.” [14:51]
• Tass Mellis: “The Denver Nuggets and other teams that we'll get to...” [15:20]
• Trey Kirby: “You're not allowed to come over anymore. I can smell it in my office.” [01:45]
• Tass Mellis: “It's the summer of reinvention.” [120:45]
• J.E. Skeets: “Embrace the day, people.” [122:03]

Final Remarks: "No Dunks" provided a comprehensive and engaging analysis of each NBA team, offering listeners a blend of statistical insight, strategic evaluations, and candid commentary. With a focus on reasons for optimism across all 30 teams, the hosts delivered a nuanced perspective on the upcoming NBA season, making this episode a valuable resource for fans seeking informed opinions and in-depth analysis.