Podcast Summary: The Ringer NBA Show – NBA Finals Verrierables! Plus, Who Should Replace Thibs in New York? | Group Chat

Release Date: June 4, 2025

In this special NBA Finals preview edition of Group Chat, hosts Justin Barrier, Wosny Lambre (Big Woz), and Rob Mahoney engage in an in-depth discussion about the upcoming NBA Finals between the Indiana Pacers and the Oklahoma City Thunder. The episode delves into coaching changes, potential replacements for the Knicks' Tom Thibodeau, strategic analyses of the Finals matchups, intriguing "what-if" scenarios, and reflections on player legacies.

1. Introduction and Context

The podcast kicks off with Justin Barrier welcoming listeners to a special NBA Finals preview episode of Group Chat. Recognizing the unique timing of the podcast release—breaking the nightly cadence before the playoff action—Justin sets the stage for a comprehensive analysis of the Finals.

Justin Barrier [01:15]:
"That's a special day not only because we are on the precipice of a new NBA Finals. We're also going to preview them Variable style, which is always an event on the calendar."

2. Tom Thibodeau's Departure from the Knicks

A significant portion of the discussion centers around the Knicks' decision to part ways with head coach Tom Thibodeau. Justin announces Thibodeau's departure, prompting a conversation about the implications for the team and the broader trend of coaching turnovers in the NBA.

Justin Barrier [04:18]:
"Officially Tom Thibodeau is now out as coach as of Tuesday afternoon as we're recording this, not a total surprise, I think just because this has kind of been whispered."

Rob Mahoney [04:43]:
"I think there are valid basketball reasons to fire Tom Thibodeau. I just don't know that I would have been so eager to do it given the alternatives that are out there on the coaching market right now."

3. Potential Candidates to Replace Thibodeau

The trio explores various candidates who could step into the head coaching role for the Knicks. They debate the merits of seasoned coaches like Jeff Van Gundy and Mike Malone, as well as the challenges of acquiring top-tier coaching talent without compromising draft positions or financial flexibility.

Big Woz [09:36]:
"I do not imagine, and this is me putting myself in Jeff Van Gundy's head a lot. Jeff Van Gundy, someone who has spoken an incredible amount over the years about his relationship with Tom Thibodeau... I do not think that Jeff Van Gundy would succeed Tom Thibodeau at a job, just like, on principle."

Rob Mahoney [12:55]:
"If he (Mike Malone) did take that job, would he have to go back to Mike Malone? Because Michael is way too proper."

Big Woz [13:46]:
"What are you trying to address? Is it the tactics? Is it the voice in the locker room?... expecting someone with no head coaching experience... is a little bit naive about what Tibbs brings to the table."

The discussion highlights the complexities of finding a successor who can both respect the existing team culture and implement necessary strategic changes.

4. The "Variables" Segment: NBA Finals Outlook

Transitioning to the core segment of the episode, the hosts introduce the "Variables" segment, where they analyze key factors that could influence the outcome of the NBA Finals between the Pacers and the Thunder.

Justin Barrier [19:21]:
"This is a special one because unfortunately, the last time we did this, we were flagged by Spotify... This has a little extra to it as a result."

They dissect various matchups, defensive strategies, and offensive capabilities of both teams, providing a nuanced preview of what fans can expect in the Finals.

Rob Mahoney [22:20]:
"Can any defense at this point, even the Thunder's vaunted defense, slow down what the Pacers have been able to do?... I think in the half court they will be slowed down."

Big Woz [23:06]:
"Can they just skip over all of that hard battling against the Thunder defense by throwing the ball over the top with the Pascal Siakam leak outs..."

5. What-If Scenarios: Alternate Timelines

The conversation takes an intriguing turn as the hosts explore alternate timelines and "what-if" scenarios that could have significantly altered the current Finals matchup.

Justin Barrier [54:21]:
"What if the Suns don't match the offer sheet on Deandre Ayton? That the Pacers put in front of him... What if Paul George isn't as enamored with Russell Westbrook's party aesthetics..."

Big Woz [58:13]:
"Getting Shay, I think is as important as that. Despite the fact that Shay clearly has a long way to go before he has all of the accolades that Kevin Durant does."

These hypotheticals not only entertain but also underscore the delicate nature of team compositions and how minor changes can lead to vastly different outcomes.

6. Legacies and Future Stars

A notable segment of the podcast is dedicated to discussing the legacies of key figures and the emergence of future stars. The hosts particularly focus on Rick Carlisle and Shay Gilgeous-Alexander, contemplating their potential impact on the league and their respective teams.

Big Woz [63:33]:
"Rick Carlisle... one of the most adaptive coaches we've ever seen. If he somehow pulls this off, too."

Justin Barrier [67:25]:
"Shay being a high scoring wing on a highly competitive team... tracking like three and four years... Shay has to be the guy in the NBA."

The discussion emphasizes the importance of adaptability in coaching and the role of emerging players in shaping the future of basketball.

7. Predictions for the NBA Finals

Wrapping up the episode, the hosts share their predictions for the Finals outcome. Both Rob Mahoney and Big Woz express confidence in the Thunder's ability to secure the championship, citing their strong defensive strategies and the formidable performance of players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

Rob Mahoney [76:12]:
"I really do think they're going to play better than people expect them to... but ultimately lose."

Big Woz [77:23]:
"I think the Thunder will win in five. I think it'll be five pretty competitive games."

Justin Barrier aligns with their perspectives, showing respect for the Pacers while firmly backing the Thunder's chances.

Justin Barrier [79:00]:
"We love to respect the Pacers. If OKC does indeed win, they would become the fifth team in NBA history..."

The hosts conclude by highlighting the historical significance of the Thunder's potential victory and its place alongside legendary teams.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Justin Barrier [04:18]:
  "Sorry, but why can't Jeff Van Gundy step right up?"

• Rob Mahoney [09:00]:
  "It's like the best defensive team in the NBA... and no one is going to crack it."

• Big Woz [63:33]:
  "Rick Carlisle is a made guy... If he somehow pulls this off, he's going into the upper echelon of coaches."

• Justin Barrier [67:25]:
  "Shay has to be the guy in the NBA. And I think it probably starts now with his first opportunity."

• Big Woz [77:23]:
  "I agree with a lot of that. I think the Thunder will win in five."

Conclusion

This episode of Group Chat offers a deep dive into the intricacies of the upcoming NBA Finals, blending strategic analysis with engaging banter. From dissecting coaching changes and potential successors to exploring pivotal matchups and future stars, Justin Barrier, Big Woz, and Rob Mahoney provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of what to expect in the Finals. Their informed predictions and thoughtful "what-if" discussions make this episode a must-listen for NBA enthusiasts seeking expert insights and entertaining perspectives.