Breaking Down the Pod: Is KD Still a Needle-Mover

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Kevin Durant at 36: Still a Needle Mover 

As the Miami Heat remain involved in trade discussions with the Phoenix Suns, one name keeps surfacing—Kevin Durant. At 36 years old, Durant continues to generate both interest and debate: Is he still one of the NBA’s top needle movers? Is he the greatest scorer of all time? And would acquiring him meaningfully shift Miami’s title hopes?

To start answering that, look no further than Durant’s shot chart from this past season.

Elite Efficiency at Every Level

Durant shot an incredible 52.7% from the field, 43.0% from three, and 83.9% from the free throw line in 62 games during the 2024–25 season. His effective field goal percentage (eFG%) sat at 59.8%, and his shot chart confirms what the stats suggest: Durant remains a lethal threat from all three levels.

  • Mid-range (Top of the Key): 53.1% on 286 attempts
  • Paint (Non-restricted): 53.2% on 342 attempts
  • Restricted Area: A staggering 79.0% on 124 attempts
  • Corner Threes: 47.8% (Left), 52.4% (Right)

At his age, this kind of production isn’t just rare—it’s historically elite. The only player to put up similar scoring numbers past age 35 is LeBron James. And like LeBron, KD’s game has aged gracefully thanks to his shooting touch and skill-based scoring.

Highest scoring seasons for players age 36 or above:

LeBron James 30.3 (2021-22) LeBron James 28.9 (2022-23) Kevin Durant 26.6 (last season)

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Podcast Perspective: Needle Mover or Not?

On a recent episode of Five On The Floor, Ethan Skolnick and Greg Sylvander discussed whether KD is still impactful enough to justify a major move. Ethan draws a parallel to the 2004 Shaquille O’Neal trade, where Miami added a superstar in the twilight of his prime, knowing he could elevate an already-competitive team.

While the Suns and Nets didn’t win it all with Durant, Ethan and Greg argue that context matters. Fit, injuries, and organizational stability all played a role. As Greg notes, “KD still shifts your ceiling—even if he’s not the floor-raiser he once was.”

Miami wouldn’t be trading for 2014 MVP Durant, but even this version could unlock new levels for Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro. With KD’s gravity, spacing, and ability to close games, the Heat wouldn’t need him to carry every possession—they’d need him to deliver when it matters most.

Ethan and Greg point out, who else will be there for the Heat to go for?

“Who over the next year are they going to have a better shot at than they do at Kevin Durant right now.”

Greg states:

“The league has changed and top heavy rosters/biggest spenders aren’t making it. It may be an expensive experiment, but to completely write that off is to completely ignore everything going on around the league (Pacers, Boston, everything else). What other player and moment are going to present themselves?”

“Greg is the “anti-tank” king (as am I). and Ethan states that “they will never go full tank.”

“Jimmy missed games when he could have played them”

If you’re not going to commit to a tank, then when a move presents itself, you have to go for the move that you believe it sends you to the top. Kevin Durant is still an elite player, and the growth of Herro and Bam would once again elevate. Give Spoelstra Herro, Kd, and Bam, and let Miami work the rest of the roster out and lets see what happens.

Legacy on the Line?

Durant has recently stated he’s not satisfied with his legacy, and that’s a major reason he continues to play. With over 30,000 career points, two championships, and a 50/40/90 season under his belt, KD has nothing left to prove statistically.

But legacy isn’t just numbers. It’s narrative. Miami, with its championship infrastructure and defensive identity, could give Durant what Brooklyn and Phoenix didn’t: a stable, winning environment with defined roles.

If KD’s final chapters are still being written, the Heat might be the co-authors he needs.

Final Stats

Despite being 36, Durant posted a +5.2 net rating differential in 2024–25—ranking in the 83rd percentile among all players. The Suns were significantly better on the offensive side of the ball and many close to the Suns say the defensive lapses were in large part to the Suns scheme and role players.

Kevin Durant /// Stats /// Cleaning the Glass

In clutch situations this past season, Durant posted a 61.7% effective field goal percentage—15.8 percentage points above the league average—highlighting his continued ability to close games efficiently.

NBA Clutch Shooting Report

The Bottom Line

Is Kevin Durant still a needle mover? Absolutely.

Miami might not be “one Durant away” from a championship—but they’re definitely closer with him than without.

Durant isn’t chasing numbers—he’s chasing meaning. If his final act is about reclaiming legacy, there may be no better stage than Miami, a franchise built on clarity, toughness, and results.

Listen to the full breakdown on Five on the Floor, now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

 

“It comes down to the moments and who is willing to make winning plays…”: The Thunder broke the Pacers’ hearts in Game 4, tying the series at 2-2

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The Thunder’s late defense intensified, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander the Great rescued his club in the fourth quarter on a spree of free throws and jumpers, taking Game 4 and tying the Finals at 2-2. He said after the game, “I knew what it would have looked like if we lost tonight, and I didn’t want to go out not swinging…”

 

The first change from the last match was Isaiah Hartenstein returning to the Thunder’s starting lineup after three on the bench behind Cason Wallace. The Pacers deployed double and triple full-court press plus hounded the ball and passing lanes. But Jalen Williams and Alex Caruso got loose, attacking the rim six times. Additionally, Pascal Siakam carved up OKC with four steals, a corner tray and a powerful dunk through the middle, but the Pacers were up only 35-34 at the end of the first quarter.  

 

SGA subsequently was his team’s main source of offense in the second quarter, nailing two pull-up jumpers and slicing into the lane for two layups as no teammate had more than a field goal. They briefly claimed a six-point lead, but the Pacers closed the period on a 15-6 run.

 

The Thunder were down 60-57 at halftime after six ties and five lead changes. They had one made 3-pointer to Indiana’s seven.

 

Then SGA, Williams and Caruso carried the Thunder in the third quarter with shots from short, mid and long range, but the Pacers, even with three missed freebies, pulled ahead by seven, downing four more triples and seven free throws. 

 

Next, the Thunder cranked up their defensive potency by 40° and tied the game four minutes into the fourth quarter. They prevented the Pacers any made 3-pointers in eight tries by challenging promptly and suffocating everyone minus Tyrese Haliburton. On top of that, SGA took over, scoring 15 points on free throws, a drive-by, and two pull-up jumpers, which included nine straight digits in the last four minutes. “When I was a kid, shooting on my driveway, I’d count down the clock for those moments, and now I get to live it,” SGA said.

 

The Pacers had a faint pulse, down four with 23.1 seconds left, but Bennedict Mathurin’s three consecutive missed free throws put the final nail in their coffin. 

 

The Thunder won 111-104 despite their half-court attack getting derailed to 86.7 points per 100 plays, good enough for the 22nd percentile, per Cleaning the Glass. They also outscored the Pacers in four key areas: paint points (50-36), fastbreak points (10-9), second chance points (23-11) and points off turnovers (25-23).

 

 

Game 5 is Monday in OKC.

 

 

Five Reasons Why the Miami Heat Should Trade for Kevin Durant

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A Kevin Durant trade appears imminent, and according to the latest report from Shams Charania, it could happen sooner than expected: “I think a Kevin Durant trade could happen in the next few days.” I’ve been on the fence about a KD trade—there are valid concerns on both sides: future flexibility, an aging superstar, elite offensive upside, and who should truly be “untouchable.” But with momentum building, I’m officially on Team KD. Here are my Five Reasons.

Before diving in, it’s worth noting: I would do everything possible to keep Kel’el Ware and preserve as many first-round picks as possible. That’s my line in the sand.

Here are Ethan Skolnick and Greg Sylvander’s takes: If necessary, do you move Ke’lel Ware to get Kevin Durant? • Five On The Floor: Miami Heat/NBA 

Potential Deal?

According to Zach Lowe, this could be the offer HEAT could do for Kevin Durant:

Miami receives: Kevin Durant

PHX receives: Andrew Wiggins and Nic Claxton

BKN receives: Nikola Jovic, Duncan Robinson and MIA’s 2025 first round pick Only one FRP used and Ware stays.

This would be a no brainer for me.

Five Reasons

  1. Instant Contenders in the East: At first glance, Kevin Durant joining the Miami Heat makes a lot of sense on paper. Durant is one of the most versatile scorers in NBA history, capable of creating his own shot from anywhere on the court. Pairing that with Miami’s physical, defense-first mentality led by Erik Spoelstra and Bam Adebayo could create a well-rounded championship contender. Miami’s core would transform into one of the most intriguing Big Threes in the Eastern Conference. Jimmy Butler has long been the heart and soul of Miami’s grit and grind, but with Durant, the offensive firepower would skyrocket. Pairing KD with Bam Adebayo—a versatile two-way force—and Tyler Herro, an emerging sharpshooter and scorer, gives Miami a unique blend of scoring, defense, and youth. The East is as weak as it has been and its all for the taking. With Eric Spoelstra having a top 10 defense in 13 of his 17 years, all Miami needs to be able to do is score, add KD and their offensive problems are solved.
  2. Championship Window Set and Stone: If you trade for KD, he more than likely gets extended, and this would ultimately set the Miami Heat’s championship window (2025-2028). With this trade Miami takes the short-term path and goes back for glory. The way the Heat think, and the way they have made things work before it’s worth the risk.
  3. Put’s Miami Back on the Map: After a stretch of being in the NBA’s “middle ground” and fading from the national spotlight, acquiring Kevin Durant would instantly re-establish the Miami Heat as a relevant and prominent franchise. The spotlight would return to South Beach, bringing increased media coverage and fan excitement—benefits that ripple across the organization, from ticket sales to free agency appeal. Durant’s star power alone ensures the Heat are back in the national conversation, something that trading Jimmy Butler had temporarily muted.
  4. What to Do with Kel’el Ware: If Kel’el is the deal breaker for either side, do you pull the trigger. Do you take the future hall of famer and the short-term path and watch Kel’el potentially blossom elsewhere. It’s a tough decision to make. But Miami has many young intriguing pieces which I discuss in reason 5. Ware has unlimited potential but if you keep him in a trade for KD, he likely isn’t a starter (KD hasn’t played the three in a long time) and also means that Wiggins is likely moved. This means Miami would have a big hole at the three and could struggle defensively in a lot of rotations. This adds a lot of question marks and would make the need for one of those “lateral” moves 100% necessary. I would try not to move Ware and the way the Heat talk about him they don’t want too either.
  5. Duncan’s Contract is Valuable and There are Players that Can Help you Win: Duncan Robinson is a huge factor in this deal, with the partial guarantees and early terminations it could help a team like Pheonix get under the second apron. In a weird way he is a huge piece in a KD trade which shall help Miami in a Kevin Durant trade.

    My Proposal Earlier This Offseason

    Miami Receives:

    • Kevin Durant

    Phoenix Receives:

    • Kel’el Ware (or Nikola Jović, depending on who’s dealt)

    • Andrew Wiggins

    • Duncan Robinson

    • Two future first-round picks

    From Phoenix’s perspective, this brings in a promising big man, Robinson’s flexibility, and a wing in Wiggins who can still contribute at a high level—plus draft capital to reset the clock. For Miami, it’s all-in on a win-now window. This trade allows the Heat to keep their core trio of Bam Adebayo, Tyler Herro, and Durant intact. More importantly, it opens up new offensive possibilities and defensive versatility, especially with Bam anchoring the back line. And while trading away picks limits future flexibility, Miami’s history under Pat Riley has always leaned toward aggressive moves for proven stars over future unknowns. This deal follows that blueprint.

If Miami is willing to move Ware, I think it throws them to front runners for KD.

 Pat Riley’s Endorsement of “Aging Greats”: Pat Riley’s recent comments about being open to acquiring an “aging great, great player who may not be able to carry a team” directly align with the profile of Kevin Durant. Riley explicitly stated that with the right complementary pieces, such a player can “rise in the Playoffs.” Durant, even at 35, still performs at an elite level, and in Miami, he wouldn’t need to be the sole carrier of the team. His fit within the Heat’s culture, given his past admiration for it and his lack of locker room issues, makes this move even more appealing to Riley’s philosophy. The fact that even Udonis Haslem is reportedly recruiting Durant further emphasizes the internal belief that KD is the missing piece.

Closing Statement

A Kevin Durant trade is difficult as it would take up the majority of Miami’s cap and there are many ways that this trade could work but all of it depends on what the other teams (Minnesota, Houston, and San Antonio) are willing to throw at Kevin Durant. A Kevin Durant move wouldn’t likely be the only move Miami makes. But for me I’m not throwing Ware at the wall for KD. If Miami can also keep Andrew Wiggins somehow or even move him in another deal Miami’s starting five could be very dangerous, and in the current state of the East, they could make a good run for the next three years before having to find another path.

Just because other teams “can” offer a lot more doesn’t mean they will. And hey who wouldn’t love to have one of the best scorers of all time wear Miami’s jersey?

 

Mateo’s Hoop Diary: The Pacers prevailed at home in Game 3 of the Finals against the Thunder

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Joyful cries filled Gainbridge Fieldhouse as the Pacers edged out the Thunder in Game 3, their first home Finals match in 25 years. Members of the 2000 squad witnessed the superior bench play, transition attack, points off turnovers, and Andrew Nembhard’s on-ball pestering of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander overcome an impeded half-court attack to take a 2-1 lead. Keep in mind that the winner of Game 3 of the Finals after both teams are tied wins the series 80.5% of the time, per the NBA’s Facts and Figures.

 

The Thunder were on the verge of wiping out the Pacers, but TJ McConnell turned into John Stockton for five minutes in the second quarter as he snagged two offensive rebounds, stole an inbound pass in OKC territory and set up teammates for a cut through the middle and shot from the corner. He was the main force as the Pacers erased an eight-point hole and handed a three-digit lead to Tyrese Haliburton when he checked in.

 

Bennedict Mathurin was the go-to scorer, making five shots on the catch and dribble from short, middle and long range. Coach Rick Carlisle said, “He’s put in a lot of work to be ready for these moments and tonight he was an absolute major factor.” Haliburton also dribbled into the lane for two floaters and swished a 3-pointer, helping the Pacers get to halftime up 64-60.

 

The Thunder then went on an eight-point burst to start the third quarter as SGA and Jalen Williams buried mid-range jumpers and burst into the lane. The Pacers tried to slow down Williams with Aaron Nesmith, but he got torched twice more before the period ended, which included getting crossed at the top of the key, giving up a triple.

 

Haliburton was the lone Pacer who logged multiple field goals in the period (3) as his teammates were crowded by help defense and bothered by prompt contests. They started the fourth down four on the scoreboard and took the lead after five minutes as Mathurin nailed a right-side screen-roll jumper. Their on-ball pressure also repressed the Thunder on shots from long and short range to 35% for the frame.

 

SGA was gassed in crunch time after being chased by Nembhard and Ben Sheppard. He only made one shot in three tries the rest of the way as the Pacers sealed the win with a 15-9 run.

 

The Pacers won 116-107. Mathurin outscored OKC’s bench by himself (27-18) and became the youngest player to score 25+ bench points in a Finals game since it was first tracked in 1970-71, per NBA communications. On top of that, the team beat the Thunder in four key areas: points in the paint (50-48), fastbreak points (17-10), second chance points (13-7) and points off turnovers (21-14).

 

After the game, Mathurin said, “As much as this is a dream right now, I’m not trying to live in my dream. I’m trying to live in the present and make sure the dream ends well, which means winning the next game and winning a championship.”

 

‘We Stick Together’: Jonah Gadjovich Provides Spark for Panthers in Stanley Cup Final

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SUNRISE, Fla. — Jonah Gadjovich seemed surprised when his teammate Brad Marchand presented him with the game puck following Florida’s 6-1 shelling over Edmonton in Monday night’s Game 3.

 

“We stick together, two f***ng more boys” Gadjovich said to the Panthers room before placing the puck on the board.

 

Despite not getting a point in the victory that brings Florida two wins closer to back-to-back Stanley Cups, the fourth-like grinder was more than deserving of the honor bestowed upon him by his future hall of famer teammate.

 

“I wasn’t expecting that but it’s cool to get that from him,” Gadjovich said when asked about receiving the game puck. “It’s just  such a big team effort. Obviously, anyone could have gotten that puck, but it’s fun. We kind of put that behind us now and [move] on to the next game.”

 

Gadjovich’s night was highlighted by his fight with Oilers defenseman Darnell Nurse. Both players are tough customers, with Nurse clocking in at 6-foot-4, 215 pounds and Gadjovich not far behind him at 6-foot-3, 211 pounds.

 

Their highly entertaining — and long winded — heavyweight fight was the highlight of a full on, five-on-five “line brawl” between the two teams.

 

By the end of the bout — which came with 9:31 to go in regulation as the Panthers held a commanding 5-1 lead — both Gadjovich and Nurse left the ice with bloody smiles and game misconducts.

 

“The game’s over with 11 minutes left. Then all hell breaks loose,” Oilers forward Leon Draisaitl said. “It’s a UFC fight.”

 

He added: “That’s part of their DNA, that’s what they do. It’s an emotional time. It’s two teams that want to win, two teams doing it their own way, but I don’t think anybody is going crazy here. They’re good at what they do.”

 

Florida’s fourth-line has been an energy source this postseason for the team, even if the time on ice numbers don’t show it.

 

“They don’t get the love all the time that they deserve,” Marchand said of Gadjovich after Game 3. “[He’s] an incredible guy — and that whole line. Gadjy did an incredible job sticking up for the guys there and taking on Nurse, who’s obviously a tough guy as well.

 

”Their (the fourth-line) entire game, they carry so much emotion, and give us so much energy and a lot of really good momentum swings in our favor just because of the style of game that they play.”

Five Reasons Why the Dolphins Should Just Bring Back Kendall Fuller

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Just last year, the Miami Dolphins signed cornerback Kendall Fuller to a two-year deal worth $16.5 million. For an annual salary of $8.25 million, a corner of Fuller’s caliber was a steal. Unfortunately, he caught the injury bug in 2024, dealing with two concussions and a knee injury. Though the deal ended up looking underwhelming, the injury luck was unfortunate, and his release as a “cap casualty” this offseason was somewhat perplexing.

Fuller played in 11 games, finishing the season with 50 tackles (37 solo), seven pass breakups, and one fumble recovery. His release cleared just $2.761 million against the cap but left behind $5.412 million in dead money.

With the pending trade of Jalen Ramsey and the current state of the cornerback room, why shouldn’t the Dolphins give Fuller another chance?

1. There’s No Clear Precedent—But Maybe It’s Time to Make One

It’s rare to see a player released and then brought back to the same team. Typically, the reason for release involves either a salary cap issue or a long-term injury concern. But in Fuller’s case, Miami might be wise to make an exception. He could be one of the cheaper options on the market and already knows the system. The team is clearly trending younger and looking to avoid injury-prone veterans—but nearly every free agent cornerback has either age or health concerns. In today’s NFL, adaptability is key. Re-signing Fuller wouldn’t be backtracking—it would be adapting to new realities.

2. Timing: Waiting on Ramsey, But Not Forever

Miami likely wants to clear Ramsey’s contract before making another move, but with under 90 days until the season kicks off, time is ticking. Bringing back someone like Fuller could offer stability and familiarity. He knows the scheme and could step right in to help guide a young secondary. Miami has reportedly been in talks with free agents like Asante Samuel Jr. and Rasul Douglas, but so far, nothing has progressed beyond that. Fuller remains the most plug-and-play-ready option.

3. Elite When Healthy

Before this season, Fuller was a consistent presence on the field and in all honesty this season’s injuries were freak incidents, two concussions that kept him out for extended time and could have been avoided and then a late season knee injury that ultimately had no impact on the season. 2023 stats “Kendall Fuller forced a tight window on 48.0% of his targets in man coverage last season, 4th-highest in the NFL (min. 20 targets, Next Gen Stats).” n 2023, he was one of the most reliable cornerbacks in the league, ranking as PFF’s 7th highest-rated CB. Fuller has 16 career interceptions and has the capability of playing both outside an in the slot. Why not bring a high-level corner back on a team friendly deal?

Fuller averages 14 games a year.

4. Respected and Trusted

Fuller isn’t just talented—he’s universally respected. Coach Weaver said:

“He’s played in every coverage scheme known to man. His vet savvy, presence, and professionalism he shows every day are going to have a tremendous influence on all these guys. I’m so grateful for him being here.”

Chris Grier echoed that sentiment in an April 15th presser:

“I don’t want to get into reasons for why, but one of my favorite people just in the short time I got to know him, a really quality human being.”

Jalen Ramsey added:

“I’ve known Kendall (Fuller) for a long time. Me and Kendall knew each other in high school, we were like 16 or something like that. So it’s always been a lot of love and respect there. Then him being my teammate, obviously, we’ve both been in the league the same amount of years. He has a lot of knowledge as well. We try to help each other, help the young guys out. I feel like we play off each other pretty well in certain things that we do.”

Terron Armstead offered perhaps the strongest endorsement:

“You can tell the impact that Kendall (Fuller) has brought to this team already. He’s a joy to be around, guys love him in the locker room and on the field. He’s a leader. Not the most vocal guy, but he’s a very consistent pro which you love to see. He’s always on his game, always on his technique so it’s only fitting for him to be the one to get that interception in practice against his former team.”

Congratulations as well Kendall!!! (1) Virginia Tech Football on X: “Make that ✌️Fullers! Congratulations to Kendall Fuller on being inducted into the Virginia Tech Hall of Fame! 👏 #ThisIsHome | #TeamOverMe | @KeFu11er https://t.co/ZMry6BpDr8” / X

5. The Market Is Thin—and Fuller Might Be the Best Fit Left

Miami’s remaining options are dwindling. Most free agent corners still available come with notable red flags—either age, injuries, or poor scheme fit. While Fuller isn’t without concerns, he’s only 30, offers inside-outside versatility, and knows the system. With familiarity, production, and leadership all on his side, he may be the most well-rounded and affordable choice left, even if a situation like this is uncommon.

✅ Final Verdict

There’s a first time for everything. While bringing back a player after releasing him isn’t common—especially in a forward-thinking league like the NFL—it might be the right move here. Kendall Fuller has already proven he can thrive in Miami’s system. He’s respected by teammates and coaches, and unlike some of the bigger-name options like Jaire Alexander or Asante Samuel Jr., he doesn’t come with long-term injury baggage or a bloated price tag.

If Fuller is open to a reunion, the Dolphins should seriously consider making an exception. It may not be rooted in precedent—but it would be grounded in logic and a smart step toward stabilizing a fragile cornerback room.

all me crazy, but with the current state of Miami’s secondary, bringing back a proven veteran sounds more like common sense than desperation.

🐬 Five Reasons Why: Should the Dolphins Sign Jaire Alexander?

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Welcome to Five Reasons Why, my new series breaking down five key factors behind big decisions in the world of South Florida sports. This week, we’re diving into the buzz surrounding former Packer’s cornerback Jaire Alexander, who was officially released by Green Bay today.

I once threw around the idea of a Jaylen Ramsey for Jaire Alexander trade. The Dolphins desperately need help in their secondary, and Alexander — a two-time Pro Bowler — is now on the market. But signing him isn’t a slam dunk. Let’s break down five reasons Miami should — or shouldn’t — make a move.

1. Elite Talent, Still in His Prime

When healthy, Jaire Alexander is one of the best cornerbacks in football. He’s never had a season with a coverage grade below 73.0 (via PFF), and in a limited 2024 campaign, he still posted a 78.3 grade — good for 16th among all corners.

He’s not just consistent; he’s impactful. Over seven seasons, he’s totaled 70 pass breakups, 12 INTs, and more than 280 tackles. Alexander has the rare ability to eliminate a top receiver and force quarterbacks to look elsewhere — something the Dolphins haven’t had outside of Jalen Ramsey.

At 28, he’s still young enough to be a core piece. If you’re betting on talent, you won’t find better on the market.

2. Injury Concerns Are Real — But Manageable

Here’s the catch: Alexander hasn’t played a full season since 2020. He’s dealt with shoulder, back, quad, and PCL injuries in three of the past four years. That’s a tough pill for any front office to swallow.

But here’s the context: every remaining free-agent corner comes with a red flag — whether it’s age (Stephon Gilmore, 34 going into age 35 season) or inconsistency (Asante Samuel Jr., Charvarius Ward). Alexander’s ceiling is higher than any of them. The question is whether Miami can structure a “prove it” deal that limits risk — similar to what Green Bay reportedly tried to offer him.

3. Massive Need in the Dolphins Secondary

This can’t be overstated: Miami’s cornerback room is dangerously thin. With the expected departure of Jalen Ramsey (trade), and the exit of Kendall Fuller, there are zero proven outside corners left.

Kader Kohou, Storm Duck, and Cam Smith (who barely played last season) are currently penciled in. Alexander would instantly raise the floor and ceiling of the group. And with DC Anthony Weaver eager to build a fearsome defense, Alexander could play a vital on-field and locker-room leadership role.

4. Locker Room History: Overblown or Real Issue?

Dolphins fans haven’t forgotten Alexander’s infamous “waddle-waddle” taunt after Green Bay beat Miami on Christmas Day in 2022. It rubbed fans — and maybe a few players — the wrong way.

But let’s be real: this is the NFL. Trash talk is part of the game. Jalen Ramsey and Tyreek Hill once went at it, and they’ve coexisted just fine. If Alexander can play, nobody will care about an old celebration. Winning solves everything.

5. The Ramsey Ripple Effect

This is where it gets complicated. Miami has been shopping Jalen Ramsey, but Alexander’s release could hurt that effort. Ramsey’s 2025 cap hit is over $20M. If Alexander — younger and arguably more versatile — wasn’t tradeable at $16M, what’s Ramsey’s market?

Bringing in Alexander could torpedo the last bits of leverage the Dolphins have in Ramsey talks. But not signing him, and watching him join a team like the Rams (a known Ramsey suitor), could close Miami’s window to reshape the position on the fly.

The Dolphins have to time this right — and make sure the price is low enough not to fully shut the door on their other options.

Final Verdict: Worth the Gamble, If the Deal Is Right

Miami is in one of the toughest positions when it comes to the salary cap and they can’t over commit to an injury prone guy like Alexander, but they can give him a chance.

According to Albert Breer, Green Bay offered Alexander a reduced, incentive-heavy one-year deal — and he turned it down. That tells us he’s betting on himself and might be open to the right situation over top dollar. Miami fits.

He’d walk into a starting role, mentor a young room, and play for a defense that’s hungry to make a leap under Weaver. If Chris Grier can land him on a team-friendly “prove it” contract, it’s a smart, calculated risk.

If the number climbs too high, pivot (Samuel). But there’s no question: Jaire Alexander is a rare free-agent talent at a position of need — and that makes this a door Miami should leave wide open.

Mateo’s Hoop Diary: The Thunder evened the Finals with a commanding performance in Game 2

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The Thunder exacted retribution in Game 2, emphatically putting down the Pacers. Coach Rick Carlisle inadvertently predicted the story of the night on Saturday, saying that every team’s pattern is to come out more aggressively after a loss. The Thunder were first to 50-50 balls, their bench scored 48 digits, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander rained a surplus of jumpers and layups, and Tyrese Haliburton was gun-shy, getting aggressive way too late. 

 

Coach Mark Daigneault said, “It would be easy to just say that one thing looked better tonight, but that would be oversimplifying. I think we were just a little bit better in a lot of different areas of execution, pace, organization, decision making in the paint…”

 

The Thunder deployed the same starting lineup from Game 1 that used Cason Wallace instead of Isaiah Hartenstein to match Indiana’s speed. Chet Holmgren’s outside jumpers and two rim attacks, plus the Thunder’s suffocating squeeze, separated them at 26-20 by the end of the first quarter. They followed up with another prepotent frame, extending their lead to 23 as Gilgeous-Alexander filleted the baseline with a reverse layup after an ATO play as coach Rick Carlisle recoiled and called a timeout.  

 

Ten straight points by Indiana followed on Pascal Siakam’s two rim attacks on the right side, Aaron Nesmith’s transition corner triple and Andrew Nembhard’s pick-6. Yet the Thunder retained an 18-point lead into intermission on hard drives from SGA and Jalen Willaims, plus Alex Caruso’s transition triple.

 

At halftime, Caruso and Aaron Wiggins had eight points apiece off the Thunder’s bench. Williams said, “The last game, they had a lot of guys in double figures. That’s what makes them dangerous, the same way we have Aaron Wiggins and guys that don’t play that can come in at any moment…”

 

The Pacers couldn’t get closer than within 13 points  in the third in spite of Nesmith’s three 3-point bombs. The Pacers were held to 25% shooting in the lane, Tyrese Haliburton was rendered a release valve for most of the period, and their only prosperous run was negated with SGA’s three jumpers at mid and short range plus the Thunder’s 13 freebies.

 

The hosts opened the fourth quarter ahead by 19 points. Wiggins drained two 3-pointers, and SGA scored twice in the lane before OKC’s main figures were subbed out with a few minutes left. Additionally, Haliburton’s scoring burst was like a boxer finding a second wind after 30 straight minutes of getting picked apart.

 

The Thunder won 123-107. They contained the Pacers’ transition attack to 75 points per 100 plays, good enough for the seventh percentile, per Cleaning the Glass. Furthermore, SGA eclipsed Allen Iverson (71) for the most points (72) by a player in their first two Finals games, per NBA communications.

 

Game 3 is Indiana on Wednesday.



Marlins Drop Fourth Straight Series After Tight Set with Rays

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TAMPA, Fla. — The Miami Marlins dropped two out of three games to their in-state rival, the Tampa Bay Rays, this past weekend. With this series loss, the Marlins have now lost four consecutive series. Despite showing occasional signs of life—especially in their Game 2 win—the team continues to struggle with putting together complete performances. From a wild extra-inning thriller to an unfortunate warmup accident (game 2), here’s a look back at a weekend of highs and lows for the Marlins.

Game 1: Friday, June 6 Final: Rays 4, Marlins 3

A slow start and a controversial call cost the Marlins in the series opener. Edward Cabrera allowed three runs—only one earned—over four innings, and the Rays never surrendered their early lead. The game turned contentious in the fourth when a controversial interference call nullified a Marlins run and led to manager Clayton McCullough’s first ejection. Offensively, Augustin Ramirez hit his eighth home run of the season, and the team rallied for two late runs in the eighth off a Javier Sanoja double and an Otto Lopez homer. Pete Fairbanks shut the door in the ninth for the Rays.

W: Zach Littell (6-5) | L: Edward Cabrera (2-2) | S: Pete Fairbanks (12)

Game 2: Saturday, June 7 Final: Marlins 11, Rays 10 (10 innings)

Game 2 was an offensive rollercoaster. The Marlins responded to each Rays rally with one of their own, including a six-run fifth inning that flipped the game. Jesus Sanchez led the way with five RBIs, and five Marlins posted multi-hit games (Norby, Edwards, Sanchez, Fortes, and Myers). After the bullpen surrendered a late lead, Heriberto Hernandez singled home the winning run in the tenth. Cade Gibson secured his first win of the season.

(2) Codify on X: “The Marlins have allowed 94 stolen bases this year. https://t.co/7Bm0wsUMHf” / X

W: Cade Gibson (1-3) | L: Garrett Cleavinger (0-2)

Game 3: Sunday, June 8 Final: Rays 3, Marlins 2

In the rubber match, the Marlins’ pitching was solid, limiting the Rays to just six hits. Valente Bellozo was effective, but the offense couldn’t support him. Heriberto Hernandez went 3-for-3 and scored on a Jesus Sanchez single, but that was all the scoring Miami could manage. Yandy Diaz (3-for-4, 2 RBIs) was the difference for the Rays, setting up the go-ahead run in the eighth.

W: Edwin Uceta (5-1) | L: Valente Bellozo (1-3)

Looking Ahead: The Marlins now travel to Pittsburgh for a three-game set with the Pirates. The series will mark the long-awaited return of Eury Perez, who will make his first start since undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2023. With the All-Star break and trade deadline approaching, Miami’s focus will likely shift toward building value in potential trade pieces and finding any consistency to spark a turnaround.

South Florida Sports: The Peaks, the Pitfalls, and the Path Back to Glory

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South Florida Sports: The Peaks, the Pitfalls, and the Path Back to Glory

South Florida’s sports scene is a rollercoaster of passion, heartbreak, and untapped potential. From the sun-soaked beaches to the electric arenas, this region has produced some of the most iconic moments in sports history—and some of the most frustrating. The Florida Panthers are rewriting their legacy as a hockey powerhouse, the Miami Heat are searching for their next spark, the Dolphins remain trapped in a cycle of “almost,” and the Marlins are a masterclass in squandered opportunity. Here’s a deeper look at where each franchise stands in June 2025, the forces shaping their trajectories, and the bold moves needed to restore South Florida as a sports mecca.

Florida Panthers: South Florida’s New Standard

The Peak of Excellence

The Florida Panthers have transformed from the NHL’s perennial punchline to its gold standard. General Manager Bill Zito’s vision—rooted in gritty identity, strategic acquisitions, and homegrown talent—has made Sunrise the envy of hockey markets. Since their 2023 Stanley Cup Final run, the Panthers have consistently been among the NHL’s elite, winning last year and now facing Edmonton again for the Stanley Cup. Aleksander Barkov’s leadership, Matthew Tkachuk’s fire, and Sergei Bobrovsky’s goaltending have created a core that’s both sustainable and lethal. If they hoist the Cup this year, they’ll join the 1972 Dolphins and the Heat’s Big Three era as South Florida’s defining dynasties, solidifying their place atop the region’s sporting hierarchy. Bill Zito is the blueprint for success in South Florida sports management.

What’s Working

Zito’s front office has mastered the balance of analytics and intangibles. Trades like Tkachuk (2022) and draft gems like Anton Lundell have built a roster with depth and versatility. The team’s “work-hard, win-hard” culture resonates with fans, with home games at FLA Live Arena averaging over 18,000 attendees this season—a stark contrast to the empty seats of a decade ago. Coach Paul Maurice’s system emphasizes speed and physicality, making the Panthers a matchup nightmare. They have built this thing from the ground up, proving that patience and a clear vision can lead to sustained success.

The in-season acquisition of Brad Marchand may be the best in South Florida sports history. 

The Pitfalls

Success breeds pressure. The Panthers face rising salary cap constraints, with Tkachuk and Barkov’s contracts eating up significant space (combined $19.5M AAV through 2030). Losing key depth players to free agency could disrupt their balance, and Bobrovsky’s age (36) raises questions about long-term goaltending stability.

The Move: Sustain the Core While Investing in Youth

The Panthers’ path to continued glory lies in consistency and staying with the grind. Zito has done a great job putting the Panthers back on the map and looks to keep it that way for a very ling time.

Miami Heat: Consistency Meets the Crossroads

A Legacy of Grit, Stalled by Stagnation

The Miami Heat are South Florida’s most reliable winner, with three championships (2006, 2012, 2013) and a culture that’s the envy of the NBA. Pat Riley’s “Heat Culture” mantra—discipline, toughness, and accountability—has kept them relevant for two decades. Yet, the Heat are mired in mediocrity. They’re neither bad enough to tank nor elite enough to challenge the East. The Heat have brought great success but are now stuck in the middle, a team built on consistency that has hit a crossroads.

What’s Working

Erik Spoelstra remains a top-five coach, maximizing lineups with his defensive schemes and player development (e.g., Bam Adebayo’s rise to All-NBA status). The Heat’s front office is still respected, with a track record of landing stars like LeBron James and Butler. Culture keeps them competitive—evidenced by their 2023 Finals run as an 8-seed. They have the coach, the front office, and the mindset to win.

The Pitfalls

The roster lacks a true “superstar”, they sport Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo who are two stars. But when you don’t have a superstar, you better have depth, and this is something the Heat have lacked. Miami has a few young pieces to build off of but will need to decide who will be here in the future to help bring a championship back to the Heat.

The Move: Pick a Direction

The Heat must commit to a direction, and they cannot continue to “run it back.”  Whether it’s blowing it up to build around Bam or swinging for a superstar, the Heat need more than culture to compete in the modern NBA. They’ve got the infrastructure, but the roster doesn’t match the ambition. The Heat’s infrastructure is championship-caliber; the roster needs to catch up, and they need the players to do it.

Miami Dolphins: Talent, Hype, and the Curse of the “Same Old Dolphins”

The Eternal Enigma

The Miami Dolphins are South Florida’s most perplexing franchise. Many years they boast playoff-caliber talent and sported one of the best offenses in NFL history in 2023. Yet, they haven’t won a postseason game since 2000—the NFL’s longest drought. Each season full of promise unfulfilled, marked by late-season collapses and injuries. They are the epitome of constant disappointment and false hope, always wasting their potential. They are simply the “Same Old Dolphins.”

What’s Working

Coach Mike McDaniel’s offensive scheme is dynamic. Hill and Jaylen Waddle form one of the league’s best receiver duos, and the defense, under new coordinator Anthony Weaver, has shown flashes of dominance. On paper, they can have one of the NFL’s most talented teams.

The Pitfalls

Injuries have decimated the roster—Tua’s concussions, Tyreek’s wrist, Chubb and Phillips injuries. GM Chris Grier’s tenure (since 2016) is marred by cap mismanagement ($38M in dead cap space in 2024) and draft misses (e.g., Noah Igbinoghene). The “Same Old Dolphins” moniker persists because they falter in big moments, going 1-11 against winning teams since 2022. Whether it’s injuries, coaching, or something else, the outcome remains the same. One common denominator since 2000? Chris Grier.

The Move: Win a Playoff Game or Overhaul the Front Office

For the Dolphins, this season, they need to win a playoff game. Grier’s 9-year tenure (and those before him) has yielded zero postseason wins—unacceptable for a market this passionate. If they fail to win a playoff game in 2025, Chris Grier needs to go, and the front office needs to be reset. This would enable them to get out of the salary cap hell they always find themselves in, giving aging stars big money, seemingly paying the wrong newcomers while letting homegrown stars walk. It’s a bad pattern they can’t shake. Restructure the cap, prioritize offensive line stability, and consider a veteran backup QB to mitigate Tua’s injury risk (maybe even a new one). Fans deserve a team that matches their loyalty.

Miami Marlins: Rock Bottom in Little Havana

A Franchise Adrift

The Miami Marlins are a tragedy wrapped in a teal uniform. Despite two improbable World Series titles (1997, 2003), they’ve become MLB’s poster child for dysfunction. In 2025, they’re on pace for 90+ losses (projected 61-101), with attendance at loanDepot park averaging under 12,000—3rd lowest in MLB. Trading away stars like Jazz Chisholm Jr. (2024) and failing to develop prospects have left the roster barren. Owner Bruce Sherman’s cost-cutting philosophy has alienated a fanbase desperate for hope. They are the bottom of the barrel, the incompetent franchise that everyone wishes would show some sort of guts to win.

What’s Working

Not much. Young pitchers like Eury Pérez (pre-injury), and Max Meyer show promise, hitters like Griffin Conine (pre-injury), and Xavier Edwards, but the farm system ranks 21st in MLB (per Baseball America, 2025). The 2023 playoff appearance feels like a fever dream. Year after year, stars are traded away, miserable baseball is played, and the attendance backs it up.

The Pitfalls

Ownership’s reluctance to spend (2025 payroll: ~$67M, lowest in MLB) and a lack of organizational vision have created a cycle of futility. Since 2003, the Marlins have had five winning seasons. Fans have stopped showing up, and Miami’s vibrant baseball culture—rooted in its Latin American community—deserves better. A beautiful stadium with a great backdrop is consistently filled with a poor product on the field.

The Move: Change Ownership or Change Philosophy

The Marlins must find ownership that cares about winning and start making moves to get them back to that glory they felt in ’97 and ’03. A new owner with Jeffrey Loria’s ambition (minus the chaos) could revive the franchise. Barring that, Miami must commit to a true rebuild invest in scouting, develop hitters to complement the pitching pipeline, and market the team to Miami’s diverse fanbase. Stop trading stars for pennies—build around them.

Final Thoughts: A Tale of Four Franchises

South Florida’s sports landscape is a microcosm of what makes fandom exhilarating and exasperating. The Panthers have cracked the code: a clear identity, aligned leadership, and relentless ambition. The Heat have the foundation and championship history but need a spark. The Dolphins continuously have the talent but lack the execution from those in charge. The Marlins? They need a complete reset. If each franchise can borrow from Zito’s Panthers playbook—prioritizing culture, strategic roster-building, and fan engagement—South Florida could become a sports juggernaut once again. The ingredients are there. It’s time to cook.