Podcast Summary: The Best of the Week on The Dan Patrick Show
Episode Information:
- Title: The Best of the Week on The Dan Patrick Show
- Host: Dan Patrick, iHeartPodcasts and Dan Patrick Podcast Network
- Release Date: June 28, 2025
NBA Finals Recap and Analysis
The episode delves deep into the riveting NBA Finals showdown between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Indiana Pacers. Dan Patrick provides a comprehensive analysis of the series, highlighting the Thunder's impressive regular and postseason performance. Despite the Thunder being touted as the best team, the Pacers showcased resilience by pushing the series to seven games.
Tyrese Haliburton’s Impact and Injury: Dan emphasizes the significant role of Tyrese Haliburton in the Thunder’s playoff run. Haliburton's injury was a pivotal moment, drawing parallels to Kevin Durant’s Achilles injury years prior. Dan remarks:
"In 10 years from now, when we look back on this year's NBA Finals, it's probably going to be Tyrese Halliburton who will be remembered because of the injury and the hope he provided to the team."
[06:00]
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Stellar Performance: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) is lauded for his exceptional performance throughout the Finals. Dan compares SGA to legendary players like Michael Jordan and Shaquille O'Neal, noting his ability to excel without over-relying on the three-point shot.
"When you're going to be the regular season MVP, scoring champ, winning an NBA title, Finals MVP, and you did it in an effortless and old school way."
[06:10]
Future Implications for the NBA East
The discussion shifts to the broader implications of the Finals outcome on the NBA Eastern Conference. Dan speculates on the future dynamics, considering potential player injuries and trades:
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Tyrese Haliburton’s Recovery: Haliburton’s injury might sideline him for the next season, impacting the Thunder's performance.
-
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Potential Moves: There's uncertainty surrounding Giannis' commitment to Milwaukee, with rumors suggesting a possible move to San Antonio.
Dan elaborates on the East’s newfound openness:
"Without Tatum and Halliburton, the East is wide open. We're even unsure if Giannis is staying in Milwaukee."
[07:52]
Kevin Durant Trade Discussion
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the Kevin Durant trade. Dan critiques the trade's impact on both the Houston Rockets and the Phoenix Suns:
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Houston Rockets’ Acquisition: Dan praises the Rockets for acquiring Durant, enhancing their championship aspirations with a seasoned scorer.
"With Durant in Houston, you now have a closer who can go get a bucket, making them extremely dangerous."
[11:00] -
Phoenix Suns’ Struggles: In contrast, the Suns are portrayed as struggling despite having star players like Bradley Beal and Devin Booker. Dan expresses skepticism about their future success without significant roster changes.
"Phoenix is a mess. They've been consistent in being a mess, and now with Durant in Houston, it's hard to see a turnaround."
[11:30]
Poll Segment: Memorable Finals Moments
Dan introduces a poll engaging listeners on what they’ll remember most about the Finals. Seton O'Connor presents two identical poll questions from listeners Paul and Todd, focusing on:
- Oklahoma City’s first title.
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander cementing his superstar status.
- Tyrese Haliburton’s injury.
- Other significant moments.
Dan shares his perspective on the likely memorable event:
"I would say Tyrese Halliburton’s injury. His playoff performance leading into the Finals gave them hope, and his injury was a turning point."
[06:25]
Seton adds:
"How we remember this Finals depends on how both teams perform in the next few years."
[07:23]
Interview with Cal Raleigh: Mariners’ Home Run Leader
Transitioning from basketball to baseball, Dan interviews Cal Raleigh, the standout catcher for the Seattle Mariners, who is leading all MLB catchers in home runs and RBIs for the 2025 season.
Cal Raleigh’s Season Success: Cal attributes his success to consistency and sticking to his approach at the plate, avoiding midseason changes.
"Just really trying to stay within myself and my approach and focus on what I can do rather than what the pitcher is trying to do to me."
[51:23]
Historic Comparisons: Dan congratulates Cal by comparing him to legendary figures who reached 30 home runs before June's end, including Babe Ruth and Barry Bonds.
"Each of the last three seasons, you've led all catchers with 27, 30, then 34 home runs."
[52:06]
Nickname and Branding: Cal shares the story behind his nickname "Big Dumper," reflecting his prominent physique humorously embraced by teammates and fans.
"I have a big butt, and it's been a running thing since high school. People just kind of took off with it, and Seattle made it a thing."
[54:28]
Future Aspirations and Recognition: Despite his achievements, Cal remains humble about his recognition outside Seattle and focuses on continuous improvement.
"I'm trying to keep my head down and see how far I can go, not really trying to think about that too much."
[52:45]
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Dan wraps up the episode by celebrating Cal’s achievements and reiterating his analysis of the NBA Finals. He encourages listeners to stay tuned for live editions and upcoming discussions.
"Well, you can stay anonymous, maybe just walking around, but not when you come to the plate. So continue to do that and work on a sponsorship there."
[61:24]
Notable Quotes:
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Dan Patrick on Haliburton’s Impact:
"Hope went down and didn't get back up last night."
[06:00] -
On SGA’s Performance:
"He'll beat you off the dribble. He's capable of scoring on three different levels."
[06:10] -
On the East's Future:
"The East is wide open now."
[07:52] -
Cal Raleigh on Nickname:
"It's kind of been a running thing since I've been in high school."
[54:08] -
Cal on Hitting:
"When the pitch comes to hand, you still got to go out and put a good swing on the ball."
[56:34]
Conclusion: This episode of The Dan Patrick Show offers an in-depth analysis of the NBA Finals, future NBA dynamics, and a special interview with Cal Raleigh, blending sports insights with engaging discussions. Whether you're a basketball or baseball fan, Dan Patrick ensures a comprehensive and entertaining recap of the week's most significant sports events.