The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Episode Summary: Local Hour: I AIN'T F*IN' LEAVIN'**
Release Date: June 20, 2025
In this vibrant episode of "Local Hour," hosts Dan Le Batard and Stugotz, alongside panelists Jonathan Zaslow, Mike Ryan, Billy Corben, Chris Cody, and Tony, delve into the exhilarating world of sports with a particular focus on the NBA Finals and the Florida Panthers. Their candid discussions, peppered with humor and insightful analysis, offer listeners a comprehensive look into the current sports landscape.
NBA Finals Showdown: Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Indiana Pacers
The episode kicks off with an intense discussion about the standout seven-game NBA Finals series between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Indiana Pacers—the first such extended series since 2016. Dan Le Batard sets the stage with his frustrations, saying:
"At what point do we shove it completely up the ass of all these basketball nerds that told me OKC was just going to run away with this... this isn't the same type of suffering NBA teams used to do when they won an NBA Finals. They're playing with their food."
([01:13] Dan Le Batard)
Critique of Oklahoma City Thunder
Le Batard and the panelists express skepticism about OKC's championship credentials. He highlights the team's struggles with turnovers and shooting:
"They have 21 turnovers. They don't know how to shoot from outside... they just flatly have not lived up."
([03:44] Dan Le Batard)
Jonathan Zaslow chimes in, emphasizing OKC's inconsistencies:
"This seems like a very unserious championship team. They, they might win in seven and they'll do their bit of suffering."
([01:23] Jonathan Zaslow)
Indiana Pacers: The Unexpected Contenders
In contrast, the Pacers receive high praise for their defensive prowess and team cohesion. Mike Ryan introduces the "Stat of the Day," spotlighting T.J. McConnell's exceptional performance:
"TJ McConnell is literally having the most impactful series off the bench in NBA Finals history. He's the first bench player in NBA history with 60 plus points, 25 plus assists and 15 plus rebounds in an NBA Finals."
([06:12] Mike Ryan)
Billy Corben adds to the admiration for McConnell:
"I've said on the alley oop a couple times... It's amazing to watch him operate."
([07:04] Billy Corben)
Le Batard underscores the Pacers' strategic depth:
"They don't have a single player averaging 20 points this series, and they're a win away from winning."
([12:31] Jonathan Zaslow)
Game 7: Pressure and Expectations
As the series advances to a decisive Game 7, the discussion turns to the immense pressure both teams face. Zaslow expresses concern for OKC's readiness:
"It was such a pathetic, unserious, immature effort from Oklahoma City. I'm really worried about them going into game seven."
([10:57] Jonathan Zaslow)
Conversely, there's optimism about Indiana's resilience:
"Indiana has actually done suffering. Low key Indiana has suffered plenty. They lost in the Eastern Conference finals last year... So if we're doing big suffering, Indiana's got the suffering edge."
([05:29] Jonathan Zaslow)
ESPN Expert Picks: Jonathan Zaslow's Experience
Jonathan Zaslow shares his unique experience being featured on ESPN's expert picks:
"For the very first time, I was allowed to be on the expert picks for the finals. I was one of the idiots."
([03:33] Jonathan Zaslow)
This segment adds a personal touch, highlighting the camaraderie and light-hearted banter among the panelists.
Florida Panthers: Championship Celebrations and Future Prospects
Shifting gears, the conversation transitions to the Florida Panthers' recent championship celebrations and the evolving fanbase. Tony discusses fan fatigue and expectations:
"The fourth year, I was basically a season ticket holder for the Miami Heat because Dan never wanted to go to those games... Now they're following a similar script with the Panthers."
([21:55] Tony)
Dan Le Batard reflects on his lifelong support for the Panthers:
"They were my first job after high school. They were my first love. I love the Florida Panthers. It's not a bandwagon thing with me."
([26:13] Dan Le Batard)
Generational Fandom and Market Growth
Chris Cody highlights the team's influence on younger fans:
"I ask my 7-year-old, any sport, she's like Panthers, Bobrovsky, Reinhardt... like my 7-year-old can name, like 10 Panthers."
([26:22] Chris Cody)
Jonathan Zaslow addresses rumors about key players potentially leaving:
"We were bad... Now they're on the come up again and the Florida Panthers seem to be on the forefront of this... this is a growing market."
([25:08] Jonathan Zaslow)
Le Batard emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong roster:
"You got to pick two out of the three... Marshawn, Aaron Ekblad, and Sam Bennett. That's who I would take."
([31:54] Dan Le Batard)
Player Movements and Team Dynamics
The panel discusses the possible exits of players like Aaron Ekblad and Sam Bennett, who have been central to the team's success. There’s a consensus that these players are vital for the Panthers' continued growth and potential dynastic status.
Wrap-Up: Insights and Takeaways
Throughout the episode, Dan Le Batard and his panel offer a mix of critical analysis and unwavering support for their teams. Their discussions provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of the NBA Finals' dynamics and the Florida Panthers' promising trajectory. The episode concludes on an optimistic note, celebrating the passion and dedication that drives both franchises.
Notable Quotes:
- Dan Le Batard ([01:13]): "This isn't the same type of suffering NBA teams used to do when they won an NBA Finals."
- Jonathan Zaslow ([06:12]): "TJ McConnell is literally having the most impactful series off the bench in NBA Finals history."
- Tony ([21:55]): "We were basically a season ticket holder for the Miami Heat because Dan never wanted to go to those games."
- Chris Cody ([26:22]): "Like my 7-year-old can name, like 10 Panthers."
- Dan Le Batard ([31:54]): "You got to pick two out of the three... Marshawn, Aaron Ekblad, and Sam Bennett. That's who I would take."
This episode of "Local Hour" encapsulates the fervor and strategic intricacies of professional sports, offering listeners both entertainment and deep insights into their favorite teams.