Podcast Summary: The Big Suey: The Process Off (feat. Nick Wright) The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz – Episode Released May 8, 2025
Introduction to "The Process Off"
The episode kicks off shortly after the initial advertisements, with Tony welcoming listeners to "The Big Suey," sponsored by DraftKings (01:02). Nick Wright initiates an intriguing proposition by questioning listeners' reasons for tuning into the show, humorously noting its similarity to other Dan Le Batard podcasts but emphasizing unique elements (01:06).
Launching the "Process Off"
Nick Wright introduces the central theme of the episode: a "Process Off" aimed at dissecting and debating the underlying strategies of sports teams, specifically focusing on the New York Knicks and the Boston Celtics (01:28). He challenges Dan LeBatard and Stugotz to analyze which team employs a superior process rather than merely comparing game results.
Nick Wright (02:14): "We're challenging you to a Process Off... arguing who had the better process last night."
Debating Team Strategies: Knicks vs. Celtics
The heart of the discussion revolves around the Knicks' and Celtics' strategies. Stugotz begins by critiquing the Celtics' reliance on three-pointers, labeling it as a problematic "bricks" strategy and advocating for more efficient shot selections like layups (03:09). Dan LeBatard counters by highlighting the long-term team-building efforts of the Knicks, emphasizing their focus on defense and roster construction tailored to counter the Celtics' strengths.
Stugotz (03:19): "It's a layup. And unfortunately for the Boston Celtics, they don't see it that way."
Dan LeBatard (04:09): "The Knicks won the process because they started their process a full year ago... How can we beat that team?"
Nick Wright reinforces the argument by pointing out the Celtics' poor three-point shooting percentages, suggesting that despite the strategy's mathematical soundness, execution falters.
Nick Wright (06:33): "The Celtics are saying we've gotten better at this surgical thing... They're not going to change the way they play."
Historical Context: The Knicks' Journey Post-2005
Stugotz provides a retrospective analysis of the Knicks' performance since 2005, detailing pivotal moments and key player acquisitions such as Mike D'Antoni's hiring, the signing of Amar'e Stoudemire, the "Linsanity" period with Jeremy Lin, and the strategic trades leading up to the current roster featuring Jalen Brunson. This historical overview underscores the Knicks' evolving process aimed at fostering a competitive team structure.
Stugotz (32:21): "The show started in 2005... 2010, you sign Amar'e Stoudemire... Linsanity happens and then they lose him in free agency."
Recent Success and Fan Sentiment
The conversation shifts to the Knicks' recent successes, highlighting their back-to-back road victories against the Celtics—marking a significant turnaround after 25 years. Tony and Nick express enthusiasm over the team's improved performance and the increasing hope among fans, attributing it to Jalen Brunson's leadership and the strategic roster changes.
Tony (36:02): "We're up 20 on the Celtics. We haven't played a home game yet... The Knicks are legit. Good."
Nick Wright (41:30): "Jalen Brunson is better than anyone in the fourth quarter, and he's ours."
Humorous Segments and Media Banter
Interspersed with the main discussion are lighthearted segments and banter among the hosts. A recurring humorous segment about selecting a "Pope of Metalark" adds levity to the intense sports debate. Additionally, playful jabs at media figures like Stephen A. Smith and Pablo Torre showcase the hosts' camaraderie and wit.
Dan LeBatard (17:04): "I have a four-month-old kid."
Nick Wright (28:05): "Samson wants to be the Pope of Metalark... We can't have that."
Conclusion: Emphasizing the Importance of Process
As the episode nears its end, the hosts reiterate the significance of focusing on team processes over mere game outcomes. They celebrate the Knicks' strategic advancements and the palpable optimism among the fanbase, attributing it to deliberate and thoughtful team management.
Stugotz (32:25): "So I'm gonna try and recount all the positive things that have happened."
Nick Wright (40:22): "Brunson is clearly greater than Sign. Greater than Sign."
The episode concludes with a blend of humor, reflections on team strategies, and a strong endorsement of the Knicks' evolving process, leaving listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the ongoing "Process Off" and the hosts' perspectives on effective sports team management.
Notable Quotes:
- Nick Wright (02:14): "We're challenging you to a Process Off... arguing who had the better process last night."
- Stugotz (03:19): "It's a layup. And unfortunately for the Boston Celtics, they don't see it that way."
- Dan LeBatard (04:09): "The Knicks won the process because they started their process a full year ago... How can we beat that team?"
- Tony (36:02): "We're up 20 on the Celtics. We haven't played a home game yet... The Knicks are legit. Good."
- Nick Wright (41:30): "Jalen Brunson is better than anyone in the fourth quarter, and he's ours."
This episode offers an engaging deep dive into sports team strategies, enriched with insightful debates, historical context, and the hosts' trademark humor, making it a must-listen for fans seeking a nuanced understanding of the Knicks' resurgence and the broader dynamics of team management in sports.