The Athletic NBA Daily: Michael Malone Out in Denver + Thunder Get Revenge on Lakers
Release Date: April 9, 2025
Hosts: Dave DuFour, Zena Keita, and Esfandiar Baraheni
Featuring: Andrew Schlecht and Adam Mares

1. Thunder's Victory Over the Lakers

Hosts: Dave DuFour and Andrew Schlecht
Timestamp: [02:37] – [06:52]

The episode kicks off with a detailed analysis of the recent matchup between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Los Angeles Lakers. Andrew Schlecht provides an inside look at the controversial ejection of Luka Doncic, explaining the sequence of events that led to his removal from the game.

Andrew Schlecht [03:19]: "There was confusion as to what happened. It was a fan that was ejected; he heckles players every game, giving the Thunder a little home court advantage."

The discussion highlights the offensive prowess displayed in the game, with both teams showcasing exceptional shooting, particularly from beyond the arc. The hosts delve into the strategic challenges posed by the Lakers' three-ball-handler lineup, which is uncommon and disrupts the Thunder's usual defensive gameplay.

Andrew Schlecht [04:47]: "The Lakers thrive on getting paint touches and spraying out to the corner, which is a significant weakness for the Thunder defense."

As the game progresses, momentum shifts in favor of the Lakers during the third quarter. However, the Thunder mount a comeback, fueled by increased physicality and strategic shot-making. Shay Gilbert's impressive 42-point performance is noted as a pivotal factor in securing the Thunder's victory.

Andrew Schlecht [06:52]: "Shay Gilbert was brought in earlier and scored 42 points. The Thunder played with more physicality and defensive intensity, leading to crucial steals and fast breaks."

2. Evaluating Postseason Implications: Lakers vs. Thunder

Host: Dave DuFour
Timestamp: [08:14] – [10:46]

The conversation transitions to the potential postseason implications of the Thunder-Lakers matchup. Andrew Schlecht assesses whether the Lakers, boasting a franchise-record 65 wins, should be concerned about facing the Thunder in the playoffs.

Andrew Schlecht [08:44]: "This is probably one of the tougher matchups for the Lakers in the Western Conference. The Thunder's ability to shut down three-ball handlers makes them particularly challenging."

The hosts debate the sustainability of the Lakers' outstanding three-point shooting and how it could impact their playoff performance. The discussion also touches on the Thunder's need to maintain physical dominance to harness their strengths in future playoff series.

Andrew Schlecht [09:14]: "If the Lakers settle down to shooting around 39% from three, it changes the dynamic significantly."

3. Nuggets' Organizational Shake-Up: Firing of Michael Malone and Calvin Booth

Host: Dave DuFour
Guest: Adam Mares
Timestamp: [19:52] – [27:52]

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the surprising decision by the Denver Nuggets to part ways with head coach Michael Malone and assistant coach Calvin Booth. Adam Mares from DNVR provides in-depth insights into the organizational changes and the possible motivations behind this move.

Adam Mares [20:33]: "I expected this shift, but not now. The Nuggets were struggling and decided to pivot directionally at the season's end."

The discussion explores the long-term implications for the Nuggets, including potential impacts on Jamal Murray's injury status and the overall team dynamics. Mares speculates on the future direction of the franchise, considering the departure of key coaching figures and the need for a new strategic vision.

Adam Mares [22:14]: "Jamal Murray might return for the next few games, but the real issue was a toxic relationship between Malone and Booth that ultimately led to their exit."

4. Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks' Resilience

Hosts: Dave DuFour and Host 2
Timestamp: [11:17] – [16:35]

The episode shifts focus to Giannis Antetokounmpo's outstanding performance with the Milwaukee Bucks, highlighting his third consecutive triple-double and the team's impressive comeback against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Host 1 [11:17]: "Giannis has had a ridiculous season, picking up his third straight triple-double as the Bucks mounted a 24-point comeback."

The hosts discuss the Bucks' ability to overcome adversity and their potential as strong playoff contenders, emphasizing Giannis's leadership and clutch performances.

5. Timberwolves' Struggles and Celtics' Playoff Prospects

Hosts: Dave DuFour and Host 2
Timestamp: [12:23] – [16:35]

The conversation moves to the Minnesota Timberwolves' disappointing loss to the Bucks, which snapped their five-game win streak and exacerbated their playoff positioning concerns. The hosts analyze the team's inconsistencies and the impact of turnovers and defensive lapses.

Host 2 [14:04]: "The Wolves blown a 24-point lead in the fourth quarter. That is one of your worst losses of the season."

Additionally, the discussion covers the Boston Celtics' recent performance, focusing on Jaylen Brown's knee injury and its implications for the team's playoff readiness. The hosts debate whether to rest Brown or have him play through the injury, considering his crucial role in the team's success.

Host 1 [15:32]: "Do you rest him or let him play through it and hope he's ready for the playoffs? Honestly, I don't know."

6. Future Outlook and Final Thoughts

Host: Dave DuFour
Guest: Adam Mares
Timestamp: [27:52] – [29:13]

In the concluding segment, Adam Mares speculates on the Denver Nuggets' future moves, including potential trades and the search for a new head coach and general manager. He underscores the urgency for the Nuggets to make decisive changes to maximize their championship window.

Adam Mares [27:52]: "With Jokic in his prime and limited time, the Nuggets need to move quickly, whether that's through trades or strategic signings, to secure a championship."

The hosts wrap up the episode by reflecting on the day's significant events and their potential impact on the upcoming NBA playoffs.

Notable Quotes:

• Andrew Schlecht [04:47]: "The Lakers thrive on getting paint touches and spraying out to the corner, which is a significant weakness for the Thunder defense."

• Adam Mares [22:14]: "Jamal Murray might return for the next few games, but the real issue was a toxic relationship between Malone and Booth that ultimately led to their exit."

• Host 1 [15:32]: "Do you rest him or let him play through it and hope he's ready for the playoffs? Honestly, I don't know."

This episode of The Athletic NBA Daily provides a comprehensive overview of the latest NBA developments, offering expert analysis on game outcomes, organizational changes, player performances, and playoff implications. Whether you're catching up on the Thunder's triumph over the Lakers or dissecting the Nuggets' surprising coaching changes, this summary encapsulates all the critical discussions from the show.