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Three Fat Contract Extensions, Morey Questions Lakers' Bubble Title & Kuminga Update - No Dunks | Wave AI Podcast Notes

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Three Fat Contract Extensions, Morey Questions Lakers' Bubble Title & Kuminga Update

No Dunks

Tue Aug 05 2025

Summary

No Dunks Podcast Summary
Episode: Three Fat Contract Extensions, Morey Questions Lakers' Bubble Title & Kuminga Update
Release Date: August 5, 2025

Hosted by Skeets, Tas, Trey, and JD from The Athletic

1. Luka Doncic's Monumental Extension with the Lakers

[03:45 - 11:11]

The episode kicks off with a deep dive into Luka Doncic’s recent three-year, $165 million contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers. Trey Kirby highlights the significance of this move, stating, “This is the start of the Luka era” ([07:26]). The hosts discuss Luka’s impact on the Lakers and the broader NBA landscape, noting his status as a five-time All-Star and his pivotal role in leading the team to the Finals last season despite limited games due to injuries.

Tas Melis emphasizes the strategic advantage the Lakers gain by securing Luka early in his career: “Luka is the only player on the books for more than $15 million after this season. So this year they're definitely going to play it out with LeBron” ([07:26]). The conversation also touches on Luka’s conditioning and the influence of LeBron James on his fitness regime, with Gilmore Girls Fan observing, “I'm looking forward to seeing how fit he actually is” ([05:00]).

Notable Quote:
Gilmore Girls Fan: “Luka is top five MVP odds. Of course, assuming health, he will finish in top five in voting.” ([08:37])

2. Mikhail Bridges Secures a Four-Year Deal with the Knicks

[16:00 - 27:14]

Next, the hosts analyze Mikhail Bridges’ four-year, $150 million extension with the New York Knicks. Recognizing Bridges as a solid contributor, the discussion centers on the Knicks’ commitment to building a competitive team around their core players, including Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle.

Tas Melis points out the Knicks’ strategy: “They’re locked into this team. The Knicks window is this year and basically next year” ([19:21]). The conversation explores Bridges’ role in the Knicks’ defense and the potential improvements under Coach Mike Brown’s leadership.

Notable Quote:
Gilmore Girls Fan: “Mikhail Bridges, he can buy in and be decent. Also led the league in steals one year.” ([26:02])

3. De'Aaron Fox's Lucrative Extension with the Spurs

[25:09 - 37:39]

De'Aaron Fox’s four-year, $229 million extension with the San Antonio Spurs is the third major contract discussed. The hosts debate the value of Fox’s deal relative to his performance, considering his one All-Star and One All-NBA selection.

Trey Kirby raises concerns about the sustainability of Fox’s performance as he ages: “As Fox gets into his 30s... does he still have the same effectiveness?” ([27:14]). However, Gilmore Girls Fan remains optimistic about Fox’s role alongside rising talents like Stefan Curry and Dylan Harper.

Notable Quote:
Trey Kirby: “He is the point guard of the near future for San Antonio.” ([26:02])

4. Daryl Morey’s Controversial Comments on the Lakers' Bubble Championship

[37:39 - 41:48]

The podcast delves into Daryl Morey’s recent remarks questioning the legitimacy of the Lakers’ 2020 bubble title, suggesting it should be “marked by an asterisk.” The hosts express strong opinions on this stance, with Gilmore Girls Fan vehemently disagreeing: “Everyone I speak to around the league... thinks that was an asterisk championship” ([38:13]).

Trey Kirby adds, “It's different. It's literally an asterisk” ([40:14]), likening it to the lockout-shortened seasons and acknowledging the unique circumstances under which the championship was won.

Notable Quote:
Daryl Morey: “Had the Rockets won the title, I absolutely would have celebrated it as legitimate.” ([40:14])

5. NBA's International Expansion: Grizzlies and Magic to Play in Europe

[41:48 - 44:39]

The hosts discuss the NBA’s initiative to host games overseas, specifically the Memphis Grizzlies and Orlando Magic’s upcoming matches in Berlin and London. Tas Melis rates the NBA’s international efforts as a "big time up" ([43:35]), supporting the league’s move to globalize the sport and engage international fans.

Gilmore Girls Fan shares enthusiasm for the cultural exchange and the opportunity to see stars like Franz Wagner showcase their talents on European soil: “Everyone was surprised last year... he was playing well” ([43:42]).

Notable Quote:
Trey Kirby: “They are representing the Commonwealth.” ([44:21])

6. Nike Revives City Edition Jerseys

[44:38 - 49:29]

A segment is dedicated to Nike’s decision to bring back the City Edition jerseys for all 30 NBA teams, featuring color swaps and nods to past designs. The hosts express excitement over specific teams, such as the Milwaukee Bucks’ return of the Cream City jersey and the Minnesota Timberwolves’ Prince-inspired designs.

Gilmore Girls Fan highlights the blend of nostalgia and innovation, stating, “I'm excited to see all these peach tree vibes going on out there” ([47:06]), referring to the Atlanta Hawks’ color schemes.

Notable Quote:
Trey Kirby: “They should make a million sequels and re-release it every 10 years.” ([49:03])

7. Upcoming Content and Show Announcements

[49:30 - 50:43]

The episode concludes with announcements about the hosts' new show, Jurassic Pals, which will feature reviews of the Jurassic Park series. They tease the upcoming episodes and encourage listeners to join in the movie-watching experience.

Conclusion
This episode of No Dunks provides an in-depth analysis of significant NBA contract extensions, controversial viewpoints on championship legitimacy, and the league’s expansion into international markets. The hosts balance insightful commentary with engaging banter, ensuring listeners are well-informed and entertained.

For more insights and updates, tune into future episodes of No Dunks on Acast.

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Transcript

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Gilmore Girls Fan (2:26)

What are my fall plans? Thank you so much for asking. I'll be watching Gilmore Girls with a bottle of Josh Watching Gilmore Girls with a bottle of Josh I'll watch Gilmore Girls Then I'll watch a little more and I'll pour a glass of Josh. Yes, I am alone and yes I am okay watching seasons 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 every day we don't talk about seven. It's a mess. I'm just a Rory Gilmore looking for my dress. Where you live, B? I will follow reality shifting all the way to Stars Hollow. They've got sweaters and books and coffee and Carole King.

Gilmore Girls Fan (16:55)

Yeah, these. This team is all in. When they were rumored to be waiting to see what they were going to extend him for, I thought, okay, they're going to have this year span here just to see what this team is and to see if that conference finals appearance was really who they are. But they're going all in on everybody in their starting lineup. Plus Josh Hart, if he's a starter or whoever it is, plus Deuce McBride. That is their team for the next few years. And Mikhail Bridges, I think overall he had a solid enough season. I think the plan for Mike Brown is to try and get more out of him offensively because I know people are question, hey, this guy didn't shoot the three ball all that well. But the Mike Brown plan, I do believe, is to get Jalen Brunson off the ball a little bit more, to include a guy like Mikel Burgess and to use some of the things that he saw In Golden State, we'll see if Brunson can do a little bit more of that. But that all being said for Jalen Brunson, that is a guy who got paid far less than a max contract. And so it seems like this team is all bought in and that they want to play together. So Mikhail Burns again, I think he had a decent season even though, you know, he wasn't getting the free throw line. 1.4 free throws per game, that's not a lot. But you look at all the numbers, he was better in the mid range than he's ever been his career really. He was better close to the rim than most of his career percentages wise. Even though he wasn't great shooting the 3, he was good even from 3 to 10ft, like he was better again getting to the rim. Mike Brown will be focused on that. When they closed out the Detroit Pistons in game six, he got seven shots right at the rim, seven buckets. He can do that, he can be that. And that's what Mike Brown's job is going to be along with playing the bench more and getting guys off the ball a little bit more. So we'll see what Mike Brown can do with Mikhail Bridges. I am a little surprised that they didn't wait one more year even though they gave up a ton for Mikhail Bridges. I thought they'd give it one more year of Runway just to see before saying this is our team. I mean it really is Bridges, Anunoby, Brunson, Hart and Towns. But you throw in some yabu sale at the center, which Mike Brown's got to play, which I don't think Tibbs did enough of playing a center beside Towns and we'll see what they can do. But it is buying into this team.

Trey Kirby (19:21)

Yeah, it's definitely buying into this team. And I think this deal was probably already done when they did the trade for Mikhail Bridges last year. The five first round picks, that's what he's always going to be compared to. So from that standpoint, it is a little bit of a disappointing season for the Knicks. But Brunson took a discount so that Bridges could be signed. And he takes a little bit of a discount as well. That being said, this is just an okay deal. To me. A big portion of the cap is going to a guy who's like your third or fourth guy. I suppose they could have waited to next season, see if we had a bounce back year from Bridges, but maybe that makes him more expensive to the Knicks next year or maybe some other team. Detroit Pistons or somebody decides we can offer Mikhail Bridges. Suddenly the Knicks don't have that wing defender without a real good way to replace them because they are an expensive team. And like you're saying, they're locked into this team. The Knicks window is this year and basically next year. Because then I think Towns has a player option. Maybe he gets shipped somewhere or maybe he becomes a free agent and wants to leave. I think Josh Hart will have an option about that time as well. So to me, two year window. More so, one year window. This is the year for the Knicks. If they don't make the Finals, I'm saying it now. Disappointing season for New York. They finished second in the Eastern Conference last year. They made a run to the conference finals. People aren't scared of the Cavs right now, even though they're coming back with continuity on their side just like New York is. I think it's time for the Knicks to take the next step and win. Their move was bringing in Mike Brown. I think they did a good job around the margins, bringing in a Yabu Saleh, Jordan Clarkson, I think will be helpful as well. They're a slightly deeper team. Maybe they'll get more out of their bench this year. Maybe they'll get more out of Bridges.

Gilmore Girls Fan (22:26)

Yeah. He endorsed my Tassos yogurt. It was a big deal. So come on over. I will say the Knicks. Yeah. Buying in is interesting because last year 51 and 31 middle of the pack, defensive team a number three seed in the East. That's why I wasn't sold on just saying, hey, let's go in on Mikel Bridges. Let's just do it. But as you said, there is going to be more chemistry. Mikel Bridges has a full year, A full year of being the. The first point of defense on the other team's point guard like he was last year. But this is. Which was a new thing for him. But now he's got to do it all the time running around all these screens while Jalen Brunson is playing off the ball. So their defense has to be better. That's where it comes down to. Their offense was. Was good. Even though I think they're going to be different this year in the way they just go through other guys and not just Brunson and Towns. Even though, you know, Brunson did make some sacrifices to not being the MVP candidate he was the prior season. I am interested just to see the chemistry part and yeah the money wise it's. It is interesting to see the number one guy on this team is Towns in terms of pay. Then it goes down to OG and then Brunson and Mikel Bridges. But they are all bought in. Yeah. For. For two years plus that third is. It is interesting but I guess they love each other man. And Brunson has. Brunson has always been. He was a second round pick who obviously bet himself and made a successful growth level. Like a level where he just jumped to this new guy where the Knicks signed him to some questioned even that deal, that first deal. Maybe they got paid. Maybe they paid him too much. But I do think the fact that he wasn't just a number one pick that people and the entire organization just buys in. He buys into them. So I am looking forward to seeing this one more year of development here in chemistry because that's. That's the important thing is the. Is the defense really. And that's why they go yeah Boselle. But I don't know. I'm looking forward to that. The whole center thing defensively is. Is an interesting thing with Towns moving to the four a little bit more if that happens.

Trey Kirby (27:14)

I think that's the huge question is will this contract be tradable? Because like I said, Fox will be 28 during the season. He turns 28 in December. So they are getting him through his prime. He hasn't been worth a supermax contract yet, not at this percentage of the cap, but I think he can be next to Wemby. The question is, is as Fox gets into his 30s as a guy who hasn't been a great shooter in his career, who really thrives on athleticism, does he still have the same effectiveness when he's 31 years old making $60 million? And at that point is he tradable? Because I'm with you, he's the point guard of right now for the Spurs. They don't have a lot of expensive contracts on their books. He's the point guard of the near future, I think for San Antonio. But this deal was probably agreed to when the trade happened. At the trade deadline. Since Fox wanted to come to San Antonio, they sent three first round picks. It's probably all agreed to at that point. But things changed. Like you said, they brought in Dylan Harper. They've got Stefan Castle as the rookie of the year. So I don't necessarily know that he's a long term piece of the core. We will see. I think that's the big question mark this season is seeing the actual fit between Fox and Wemby. I think they played five games together last season, one of them here in Atlanta in fact. So we didn't really get a look at what they're going to look like before Fox and Wemby both went down with injuries. They're hoping he ages well. They're hoping he's a good tutor for their younger guards in Castle and especially Harper. But Wemby gets expensive starting in 2027. Harper will be expensive in 2029 depending on if he turns into a player. The dude hasn't played an NBA game yet, so I don't know. I think it's good. I would give this like a 3/4 up sort of deal Here because we've got up on our various social pages where do you have Deer and Fox ranked amongst guards, point guards in the NBA and to me he's like probably 10 to 15. There's quite a few guys you would put ahead of them. So it makes it harder to find an upgrade for a trade and it makes it harder for another team to say, hey Dear and Fox, 30 years old, we want you to make our team better. So we will see from that standpoint. But my other takeaway is that Rich Paul is just the best agent in the NBA. This guy gets his payers played when the money isn't there. He literally said Brandon Ingram would not get the contract he got from the Raptors if we didn't do the trade. Same thing with de' Aaron Fox, I think going into these negotiations. So if you've got that guy negotiating for you, you're getting top dollar.

Gilmore Girls Fan (33:15)

Well, I'm up for a few reasons. First, this is a mystery. It's like being at the NBA arena that you're at and you see that, you know the cup game where they put three things under three cups and you do the shuffle. I think you can Put the Suns logo, the Kings logo, and the warriors logo under the, the Jonathan Kamiga game because he could go to any of those teams. Now it's unlikely he goes to the Suns because they don't have the players that the Kings have in terms of a sign and trade off or come back to the Warriors. But I'm up just because I'm excited for that. I am up also if he goes to the Sacramento Kings, because that's a bit of a mystery. I, I mean, I, I, I, I like it because it's, it's such an interesting rotation roster that they have when you've got a guy like Zach Levine who wants the ball in his hands, Demar derosen who wants the ball in his hands, and now at Jonathan Kaminga, who wants to prove himself as a number one guy. So that's more just popcorn type of experience watching. I just want to see that. And another reason I'm up is because for all the basketball nerds, like you said, this is day 35. I mean, there's so many little nerdy things about this that make it interesting. Like there's, there's so many contracts on the table. Like you said, the qualifying offer, the one year guaranteed, plus a team option that the warriors are reportedly offering that Jonathan doesn't want any part of. The Kings can't sign him to an offer sheet because they don't have the cap room to do that. So that part is interesting. And according to Mark Stein, the Warriors want Kaminga to waive his right to block any trade during the first year. Because he signs that one year guaranteed. He can literally block a trade. And that happens to everybody who signs a one year deal, you know, when they're going to their restricted free agency. I think that's anyways, it's a, it's a one year guaranteed anyways. So that part's interesting as well. It's all fun. It's all fun to nerd it up here because there's just so many moving parts. If this was just like a, hey, will he sign with his one team? It wouldn't be as interesting. But I think, I think there's some fun here involved.