Episode Summary: Are the Pacers the MOST Clutch Team in the NBA?

Podcast: PTI
Hosts: Tony Kornheiser & Mike Wilbon
Release Date: May 22, 2025

1. Indiana Pacers' Stunning Comeback Against the Knicks

The episode opens with a deep dive into the Indiana Pacers' extraordinary performance against the New York Knicks. Down by 14 points with just under three minutes remaining, the Pacers orchestrated a remarkable comeback, outscoring the Knicks by eight points in the final seconds to force overtime, ultimately winning 138-135. Key moments included Aaron Neesmith's flawless shooting and Tyrese Halliburton's controversial three-pointer that was ruled a two-point shot, tallying the game to a tie.

Mike Wilbon reflects on the unpredictability of the game:

“I can't make sense of it. Maybe you can, because I can't.” (00:39)

Tony Kornheiser emphasizes the improbability of the Pacers' performance:

“What happened last night was actually impossible. Things went on that were not possible.” (03:10)

The hosts discuss the Pacers' consistent ability to stage comebacks throughout the playoffs, highlighting their resilience against teams like Milwaukee and Cleveland. They debate whether this performance signifies the Pacers as the most clutch team in the NBA, considering their strategic adjustments and mental fortitude.

2. Dallas Stars' Playoff Comeback vs. Edmonton Oilers

Shifting to hockey, the conversation centers on the Dallas Stars overcoming a significant deficit against the Edmonton Oilers. Entering the third period trailing 31-43, the Stars surged with five goals, including three power-play objectives, to secure a 6-3 victory.

Tony Kornheiser critiques the Oilers' performance:

“Edmonton is the agent of its own destruction here because it gave up penalty after penalty.” (06:07)

Mike Wilbon agrees, attributing the loss to the Oilers' strategic failures:

“It is downright stupid and irresponsible to have three penalties, two of them for high sticks in that shorter time frame.” (07:43)

The discussion highlights the Oilers' uncharacteristic collapse and the Stars' exemplary comeback, drawing parallels to the earlier Pacers-Knicks game in terms of dramatic turnarounds in playoff settings.

3. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Wins MVP Amidst Controversy

The conversation transitions to basketball accolades, focusing on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's MVP award. Garnering 71 out of 100 first-place votes, Gilgeous-Alexander's performance is lauded despite critiques regarding his tendency to draw fouls and occasional flopping.

Tony Kornheiser questions whether Gilgeous-Alexander's style merits respect or derision:

“Should we deride or respect his penchant for drawing fouls?” (08:33)

Mike Wilbon defends Gilgeous-Alexander's approach, emphasizing his active play in the paint and his leadership in guiding the team to the best record:

“He's actually paying attention to the mid range and he's honoring a part of the game that most people have bailed on.” (09:05)

The hosts debate the ethics and effectiveness of drawing fouls as a legitimate strategy, ultimately supporting Gilgeous-Alexander's contributions to his team's success and dismissing criticisms as unfounded.

4. Detroit Tigers' Impressive Start to the Baseball Season

Transitioning to baseball, the hosts discuss the Detroit Tigers' exceptional record of 33-17 through the first 50 games, making them the team with the best record in the league at that point. Tony Kornheiser attributes their success to strengths in their roster and competitive division.

Tony Kornheiser highlights the Tigers' unexpected performance:

“Nobody would have predicted they'd have the best record in baseball after 50 games.” (13:25)

Mike Wilbon counters by emphasizing the context of the Tigers' schedule difficulty:

“The Tigers have had the 17th most difficult schedule so far this year.” (14:21)

The discussion underscores the importance of schedule strength in evaluating team performance and suggests that the Tigers' impressive start may not be sustainable as they face tougher opponents moving forward.

5. Novak Djokovic's Prospects at the French Open

The episode also touches on tennis, specifically Novak Djokovic's chances at the upcoming French Open. At 38 years old, Djokovic faces skepticism regarding his ability to compete against younger talents like Carlos Alcaraz.

Tony Kornheiser remains cautiously optimistic, recalling Djokovic's past successes on clay:

“The last time he played in the French Open without leaving because of injury problems, he won it.” (15:18)

Mike Wilbon dismisses Djokovic's chances, citing his recent performance and age:

“I'm giving him a chance,” (Tony) vs.
“Zero chance.” (Mike)

The hosts debate Djokovic's potential legacy and whether he can secure another major title, with Mike firmly believing Djokovic's French Open aspirations are over.

6. Miscellaneous Sports Updates

The latter part of the episode covers various sports news:

• Colts' Quarterback Situation: Anthony Richardson's future with the Indianapolis Colts is uncertain following a challenging rookie season.
  "Richardson's future in Indianapolis is anything but assured." (17:07)

• Kentucky Colonels' 50th Anniversary: Reflecting on the ABA-NBA merger, the hosts reminisce about the Kentucky Colonels' legacy and notable players like Artis Gilmore and Dan Issel.
  "Artis Gilmore led the Colonels with 28 points and 31 rebounds." (19:55)

• Jim Irsay's Passing: The sad news of Colts owner Jim Irsay's passing is shared, highlighting his contributions and the team's history.
  "The Colts made two Super Bowls under Jim Irsay, winning one in 2007." (19:55)

• NHL Coaching Changes: Brendan Shanahan's departure from the Maple Leafs and Jeff Glasshill's hiring by the Blackhawks are discussed briefly.
  "Brendan Shanahan will not return as president of the Maple Leafs. Are you surprised?" (20:45)

• College Football Playoff Format Change: The hosts support the move to a straight seeding method with top four teams receiving byes.
  “The top four teams, that's the way it should be.” (22:05)

7. Closing Remarks and Upcoming Highlights

As the episode wraps up, the hosts preview upcoming games and events:

• Nuggets' Coaching Decision: David Adelman's appointment as the Nuggets' permanent head coach is praised.
  “I think it's a great decision.” (21:16)

• Hurricanes vs. Panthers: Predictions for the game, with Mike backing Carolina to even the series.
  “I'm going to take Carolina to even the series tonight.” (22:19)

• Northwestern Women's Golf Championship: A celebratory mention of the Northwestern women's golf team winning the NCAA Championship.
  “The Northwestern women's golf team. National champions Baby Cheer.” (22:47)

The episode concludes with standard sign-offs, encouraging listeners to access the podcast through various platforms.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Mike Wilbon:

  “I can't make sense of it. Maybe you can, because I can't.” (00:39)
  “It's not like Rick Carlisle doesn't have anything to work with on the film study.” (05:00)
  “I'm putting this entirely in Edmonton's lap. It is downright stupid and irresponsible...” (07:43)
  “He's actually paying attention to the mid range...” (09:05)
  “Some of those other teams have played more difficult schedules...” (14:21)
  “I'm giving him zero chance.” (16:21)

• Tony Kornheiser:

  “Do not get your septum pierced. Do not.” (00:45)
  “What happened last night was actually impossible.” (03:10)
  “Shay Gilgeous-Alexander has done it.” (08:33)
  “Should we deride or respect his penchant for drawing fouls?” (08:33)
  “Nobody would have predicted they'd have the best record in baseball...” (13:25)
  “I believe he took 15 shots in the paint on game one.” (10:02)
  “What are you doing, Edmonton?” (07:54)

This episode of PTI offers a comprehensive analysis of recent sports events, blending in-depth discussions with the hosts' characteristic humor and insights. From the Pacers' clutch performances to Djokovic's waning prospects, Tony Kornheiser and Mike Wilbon provide listeners with a well-rounded perspective on the current sports landscape.