The Bill Simmons Podcast The Cinderella Pacers Do It Again, Plus Trade Buzz From Indiana With Zach Lowe
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Jun 12, 2025 
Zach Lowe, renowned NBA analyst at ESPN, joins the discussion about the Pacers surprising 2-1 lead in the Finals. They dive into Indiana's vibrant sports culture and the electric impact of players like Bennedict Mathurin. The duo analyzes strategic shifts, player performance, and officiating during the intense Game 3. They also ponder the implications if OKC were to lose and preview the next game. Plus, they speculate on potential trade destinations for Kevin Durant, adding to the ongoing buzz in the league.
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Pacers as Legitimate Finals Threat
- The Indiana Pacers have transformed into a championship-level team despite starting the series as underdogs.
- Their win against the 68-win Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 3 was convincing and not a fluke.
McConnell's Game-Changing Steals
- TJ McConnell executed three spectacular inbounds pass steals, termed "full McConnells."
- One steal led to a fast break and two points, energizing the Pacers and the crowd.
Pacers' Unique Offensive Style
- The Pacers' offense emphasizes constant ball movement with quick passes and resets, complicating defensive stops.
- This style resembles a hockey power play, making the offense unpredictable and dynamic.