The Daily Thunder Podcast

The Daily Thunder Podcast

By Daily Thunder

Beat reporter Brandon Rahbar joins host John Napier for a weekly breakdown of the Oklahoma City Thunder. Listen for game analysis, news, and coverage of the OKC Thunder trade deadline, draft, free agency and offseason moves. Daily Thunder is the OG diehard fan blog, covering the team since its inception. We feature reader and listener interaction alongside our contributors and guests, keeping the authentic voice of Thunder fans loud, fun, and independent.
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Thunder vs. Pacers - The NBA Finals Preview Pod

The Daily Thunder PodcastJun 01, 2025
00:00
50:32
Thunder vs. Pacers - The NBA Finals Preview Pod

Thunder vs. Pacers - The NBA Finals Preview Pod

Host John Napier and Daily Thunder beat writer Brandon Rahbar recap Games 4 and 5 of the Western Conference Finals, which saw the Thunder take two straight, including Game 5 in blowout fashion, to advance to the NBA Finals. Then, in the main course, Brandon and John break down the Finals series against the Indiana Pacers, going through various matchups to see which team holds the edge.

Jun 01, 202550:32
Thunder Win Games 1 & 2, But Get Smoked in Game 3

Thunder Win Games 1 & 2, But Get Smoked in Game 3

Host John Napier and Daily Thunder beat writer Brandon Rahbar recap the very high highs of Games 1 and 2 and dig deep to analyze the very low lows of the whipping the Thunder took in Game 3. Plus, the duo look ahead to Game 4, and gush about Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's MVP win.

May 25, 202543:23
Thunder Take Game 7, Face the Timberwolves

Thunder Take Game 7, Face the Timberwolves

Host John Napier and Daily Thunder beat writer Brandon Rahbar recap the tough Game 6 loss, and gush about the Thunder's glorious Game 7 win to advance to the Western Conference Finals, plus a deep dive into the Thunder-Wolves series, including predictions.

May 19, 202549:01
Thunder Survive Game 4

Thunder Survive Game 4

Host John Napier and Daily Thunder beat writer Brandon Rahbar break down the latest in the Thunder-Nuggets playoff series, including:

  • What happened between Game 2 and 3?
  • Is the pressure affecting the team?
  • SGA and the bench rise to the occasion in Game 4
  • Game 5 thoughts
  • A look at other playoff series
  • When will the NBA MVP winner be announced?
May 13, 202542:42
Thunder vs. Nuggets: A Tale of Two Games

Thunder vs. Nuggets: A Tale of Two Games

Host John Napier and Daily Thunder beat writer Brandon Rahbar break down the wild first two games of the Thunder vs. Nuggets playoff series and discuss:

  • What happened in Game 1?!
  • Love for Alex Caruso
  • The fouling strategy
  • Big Game 2 bounce back
  • How the rest of the series will play out
May 08, 202541:44
Thunder vs. Nuggets Preview Pod

Thunder vs. Nuggets Preview Pod

It's time for the Western Conference Semifinals, and in an emergency pod, host John Napier and Daily Thunder beat writer Brandon Rahbar break down the Thunder vs. Nuggets playoff series.

  • How do the teams match up
  • What do the regular season results indicate
  • How do the Thunder defend Jokic
  • How can the Nuggets slow the Thunder
  • Brandon's series prediction
May 04, 202533:15
Thunder Sweeps the Grizzlies

Thunder Sweeps the Grizzlies

On this week's show, host John Napier and Daily Thunder beat writer Brandon Rahbar recap the Thunder's sweep of the Memphis Grizzlies and discuss:

  • Was Ja right?
  • Any cause for concern after Games 3 and 4?
  • Who was the MVP of the series
  • Nuggets/Clippers talk
  • And more...
May 01, 202530:17
Thunder Outclass the Grizzlies in Games 1 and 2

Thunder Outclass the Grizzlies in Games 1 and 2

Host John Napier and Daily Thunder beat writer break down the first two games of the series between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Memphis Grizzlies, including:

  • Shai's struggles and OKC's record-setting Game 1 win
  • Things go better for Memphis and still lose by double digits
  • Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams showing up big
  • A look at Clippers/Nuggets
Apr 24, 202523:40
It's Playoff Time in Oklahoma City

It's Playoff Time in Oklahoma City

On this week's show, host John Napier and Daily Thunder beat writer Brandon Rahbar break down the first round of the Western Conference playoffs, including how OKC matches up against either Memphis or Dallas, plus:

  • Standout moments in the last three games
  • It's SGA's MVP to lose
  • Does Dort have a chance to win DPOY
  • Listener questions ahead of the playoffs
  • And more
Apr 17, 202536:40
Hot Takes on the Lakers and More

Hot Takes on the Lakers and More

On this week's show, host John Napier puts Daily Thunder beat writer Brandon Rahbar in the uncomfortable position of ranking takes from Lakers Reddit, plus:

  • What went wrong vs Houston and the Lakers
  • Who got the better end of the whistle, OKC or LA?
  • Shai's brilliance (regular segment)
  • The Luka ejection
  • The final 3 games of the regular season
Apr 09, 202535:23
The NBA MVP Race is Over

The NBA MVP Race is Over

This week on the podcast, host John Napier and Daily Thunder beat writer Brandon Rahbar confirm that the MVP race is basically over, with SGA expected to take home the award, plus the duo discuss:

  • The most impressive wins of the last two weeks
  • COY and DPOY analysis
  • Should the Thunder go for 70 and how good is this team?
  • Preview of the week ahead
Apr 02, 202543:33
Shai isn't the free throw merchant, someone else is

Shai isn't the free throw merchant, someone else is

On this week's pod, host John Napier and Daily Thunder beat writer Brandon Rahbar bust the myth that Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a free throw merchant, and also discuss:

  • How the Thunder beat the Celtics
  • The T-Fest against the Pistons
  • Locking down Giannis and the Bucks
  • The NBA's investigation into the Thunder resting players
  • Which picks in the 2025 NBA Draft will the Thunder get
Mar 19, 202541:39
The SGA v. Jokic MVP Showdown

The SGA v. Jokic MVP Showdown

On this week's podcast, host John Napier tests Daily Thunder beat writer Brandon Rahbar's best arguments for why Shai Gilgeous-Alexander should take the MVP award over Nikola Jokic, plus:

  • The impressive win over Memphis
  • No starters, no problem vs Portland
  • OKC gets a big win vs Denver, then loses the next night
  • A preview of the next 3 games
Mar 12, 202543:29
Thunder Score at Will but Struggle on Defense

Thunder Score at Will but Struggle on Defense

This week on the pod, host John Napier and Daily Thunder beat writer Brandon Rahbar do a deep dive into the Thunder's defensive struggles, plus:

  • What does SGA need to do to secure the MVP?
  • J-Dub goes for a new career high
  • Why do supporting and bit players always go nuts against the Thunder?
  • Why do the Thunder keep blowing leads?
  • A week at the look ahead
Mar 05, 202539:48
Do the Wolves Have the Thunder's Number?

Do the Wolves Have the Thunder's Number?

This week on the pod, host John Napier and Daily Thunder beat writer discuss the Thunder's struggles against the Wolves and the epic meltdown, plus:

  • All-Star Game takeaways
  • Could Dort win DPOY?
  • The Western Conference playoff race and threats to OKC
  • A look at the games ahead
Feb 26, 202536:47
Chet Returns Amidst Wigginsanity

Chet Returns Amidst Wigginsanity

On this week's episode, host John Napier and Daily Thunder beat writer Brandon Rahbar discuss the last 7 games of Thunder basketball including:

  • Another 50 point game for SGA
  • Chet returns against the Raptors
  • Thunder notches an impressive win over Memphis
  • Chet blocks the Pelicans
  • A tribute to OKC's dominance
  • Wigginsanity
  • Trade deadline recap
  • Looking ahead to the next 7 days
Feb 12, 202547:19
The Trade Deadline Show

The Trade Deadline Show

Host John Napier and Daily Thunder beat writer Brandon Rahbar break down the last 7 days of Thunder basketball and discuss:

  • The Thunder adds Daniel Theis in a deadline deal
  • Luka Doncic trade reactions
  • Other trade deadline topics and their impact on the Western Conference playoff race
  • Why OKC lost to the Warriors
  • Aaron Wiggins career night
  • The basketball game played against players wearing Milwaukee Bucks jerseys
  • A preview of the next four Thunder games
Feb 05, 202533:26
Kevin Durant to the Thunder?!

Kevin Durant to the Thunder?!

Daily Thunder beat writer Brandon Rahbar and host John Napier break down the last 7 days of Thunder basketball and discuss:

  • Which reserves will be named to the West All-Star team?
  • SGA scores 54 against the Jazz
  • Why can't the Thunder solve the Mavs?
  • OKC takes care of Portland
  • Trade deadline talk, including Paul Pierce's insane KD-Chet trade idea
  • Previewing the next 7 days
  • Is SGA really committed to OKC for the long haul?
Jan 29, 202552:42
Branden Carlson for Rookie of the Year

Branden Carlson for Rookie of the Year

Host John Napier and Daily Thunder beat writer Brandon Rahbar break down the last 7 days of Thunder basketball and discuss:

-HUGE win over the Cavs + Shai's brilliance -Tough loss to the Mavs -Isaiah Joe catches fire again vs the Nets -Cam Johnson trade thoughts -Previewing games against the Jazz, Mavs, and Blazers -Which Thunder player should win every NBA player award

Jan 22, 202553:03
New Week, New Streak

New Week, New Streak

On this week's episode, host John Napier and Daily Thunder beat writer Brandon Rahbar discuss:

  • The epic clash between the Thunder and Cavs
  • The impressive win over the Knicks at the Garden + Hot Cup of Joe
  • Thunder manhandles the Wizards
  • An ugly win over the 76ers
  • Previewing Thunder-Cavs Part 2 and the Mavs and Nets
  • J-Dub for All Star
Jan 15, 202546:43
Aaron Wiggins Saves the Thunder

Aaron Wiggins Saves the Thunder

On this week's episode, host John Napier and Daily Thunder beat writer Brandon Rahbar look back at the last week of Thunder, look ahead to next week, and discuss:

  • The win over Clippers
  • Aaron Wiggins saves the Thunder
  • Celtics locked down
  • Cavs preview
  • Thunder Reddit take rankings
  • And more!
Jan 08, 202545:39
12 Games and Counting

12 Games and Counting

Host John Napier and Daily Thunder beat writer Brandon Rahbar break down the latest in Thunder nation, including:

  • OKC's wins over the Pacers and Hornets
  • Superlatives from the Grizzlies win
  • Record-setting win against the Wolves
  • Ajay Mitchell love
  • New Year's Resolutions for SGA, J-Dub, and others
Jan 02, 202550:41
Twas the Day After Christmas

Twas the Day After Christmas

Host John Napier and Daily Thunder beat writer break down the last seven days of Thunder basketball and discuss:

  • OKC's wins over the Magic, Heat, and Wizards
  • Alex Caruso's extension
  • Cam Johnson trade talk
  • Previewing games against the Pacers, Hornets, Grizzlies, and T-Wolves
  • What would Brandon give Thunder players if he was Santa Claus
Dec 26, 202451:54
NBA Cup Commentary: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

NBA Cup Commentary: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

Host John Napier and Daily Thunder beat writer recap the last 7 days of Thunder basketball and discuss:

  • The Thunder's big win over the Rockets
  • Dort's stellar performance
  • The team's fun dynamic
  • What happened against the Bucks
  • Why the loss is not that big of a deal
  • Previewing the next 3 games
  • Alex Caruso extension day
  • The new NBA All-Star format
Dec 18, 202446:17
Viva Las Vegas

Viva Las Vegas

Host John Napier and Daily Thunder beat writer Brandon Rahbar recap the last week of Thunder basketball and look ahead to this weekend's NBA Cup action. This week on the show:

  • Thunder demolishes the Raptors
  • A tale of two halves vs the Pelicans
  • Breaking down the Thunder-Mavs
  • Previewing the NBA Cup semifinals and potential finals matchups
  • Unrestrained love for SGA
  • Examining OKC's shooting struggles
Dec 11, 202444:12
Thunder Advances in the NBA Cup

Thunder Advances in the NBA Cup

Daily Thunder beat writer Brandon Rahbar and host John Napier recap the last week of Thunder basketball and discuss:

  • The NBA Cup, and what it means for the Thunder
  • OKC wipes out the Utah Jazz
  • Should SGA be getting more MVP buzz
  • ESPN's 25 Under 25 rankings
  • Recap of the team's 3-1 road trip
  • Preview of OKC vs Toronto, New Orleans, and Dallas
  • Thunder Player Grades, quarter season edition
Dec 04, 202441:20
Happy Hartsgiving

Happy Hartsgiving

Host John Napier and Daily Thunder beat writer Brandon Rahbar break down Isaiah Hartenstein's dazzling debut, recap the last week of Thunder basketball, and dish on what Thunder players and fans should be thankful for this Thanksgiving.

Nov 27, 202434:26
Riding the Rollercoaster: Should fans be worried?

Riding the Rollercoaster: Should fans be worried?

After dropping two straight, host John Napier and Daily Thunder beat writer Brandon Rahbar discuss what's going wrong, should there be cause of concern, or whether patience should be the takeaway. The pair also analyze free throw issues, shooting woes, and defensive struggles. And don't miss Brandon playing a game of "Thunder Players As Ninja Turtles."

Nov 20, 202444:35
What's Next Without Chet

What's Next Without Chet

Host John Napier and Daily Thunder beat writer Brandon Rahbar dig in to how Chet Holmgren's injury impacts the Thunder, whether the team should look at the free agent market, and whether small ball can carry the team through; the pair also recap the last week of Thunder basketball, preview the week ahead, and take listener questions.

Nov 13, 202440:55
Thunder Stays Unbeaten

Thunder Stays Unbeaten

Host John Napier and Daily Thunder beat writer discuss yet another unbeaten week for the Oklahoma City Thunder, gush about the defensive, examine any potential issues with the offense, clown on Draymond Green, and much more.

Nov 06, 202432:31
Chet Starts Hot

Chet Starts Hot

Host John Napier and Daily Thunder beat writer Brandon Rahbar break down the Thunder's 3-0 start, gush about Chet Holmgren and the Thunder's defense, preview the week ahead, play a game of "start, bench, or cut," and much more.

Oct 30, 202435:26
Season Preview!

Season Preview!

The most anticipated season in years is finally here. Host John Napier and Daily Thunder beat writer Brandon Rahbar get you ready for the season, dishing on the impact of Isaiah Hartenstein's injury, Thunder win totals, who will win the MVP award, can OKC break the NBA record for three-pointers made in a game, and much more.

Oct 23, 202436:48
Impressive Debuts

Impressive Debuts

Host John Napier and Daily Thunder beat writer Brandon Rahbar break down the impressive debuts by Isaiah Hartenstein, Alex Caruso, Dillon Jones, and Ajay Mitchell; dish on the annual NBA GM survey; and discuss how the bettors are high on the Thunder.

Oct 09, 202427:07
We Are Back

We Are Back

Host John Napier and Daily Thunder beat writer Brandon Rahbar get you ready for the preseason, discussing Alex Caruso and Isaiah Hartenstein, media day impressions, Sam Presti's press conference, "swole" Chet, nicknames, and more.

Oct 03, 202425:48
Game 6 Predictions and Hot Takes

Game 6 Predictions and Hot Takes

Ryan and Brandon let John Napier and Cray Allred crash the podcast to present some hot takes from the Daily Thunder commenters ahead of Game 6.

May 18, 202445:14
How did they do it? OKC's dramatic Game 4 win

How did they do it? OKC's dramatic Game 4 win

Ryan and Brandon go deep on Game 4 and the Thunder's outlook for the rest of the series.

May 15, 202451:18
Time for expectations?

Time for expectations?

After a strong Game 1, Ryan and Brandon discuss whether the Oklahoma City is now the strong favorites to reach the Western Conference Finals over Dallas.

May 09, 202447:58
Round 1 is a wrap

Round 1 is a wrap

Ryan and Brandon bask in a Thunder sweep.

Apr 30, 202431:05
GAME 1: LOUD CITY IS BACK

GAME 1: LOUD CITY IS BACK

Ryan Woods and Brandon Rahbar break down Game 1 and look ahead to the Thunder's next showdown with the Pelicans.

Apr 23, 202455:00
Top 5 Thunder Players

Top 5 Thunder Players

Ryan and Brandon debate the top 5 Thunder players this season. Could Chet Holmgren be #1?

Mar 22, 202431:00
The Home Stretch

The Home Stretch

Should the Thunder try and avoid the Lakers in the playoffs?

Mar 07, 202427:27
After the Break

After the Break

Here we go.

Feb 21, 202401:03:03
All-Star Breakin'

All-Star Breakin'

Ryan Woods and Brandon Rahbar on all things Thunder heading into the extended break.

Feb 14, 202432:35
Catching Up to the Trade Deadline

Catching Up to the Trade Deadline

Ryan Woods and Brandon Rahbar reflect on the season and weigh in on the Thunder's trade deadline moves.

Feb 09, 202437:53
Summer League Chop Session

Summer League Chop Session

Ryan and Spenser chop it up following the Thunder's emphatic win over the Indiana Pacers.


As always, thanks for listening!

Jul 14, 202301:17:02
INSTANT REACTION: Chet's Return, OKC Summer League Night 1

INSTANT REACTION: Chet's Return, OKC Summer League Night 1

Ryan, Brandon and Spenser react to OKC vs Utah as Chet Holmgren and the Thunder begin the 2023 Summer League!


As always, thanks for listening!

Jul 04, 202339:23
2023 Lottery Mock Draft

2023 Lottery Mock Draft

It's time! Picks 1-14 with Ryan, Brandon, Spenser and special guest Aidan Eldrod!


As always, thanks for listening!

Jun 16, 202301:15:54
DRAFT CHOP SESSION, PART 1

DRAFT CHOP SESSION, PART 1

The DT crew chops it up ahead of the 2023 draft.

Jun 02, 202302:18:45
2022-23 Thunder Season Review & Offseason Preview

2022-23 Thunder Season Review & Offseason Preview

Brandon, Ryan and Spenser review the Thunder's incredible season and all of their favorite moments. Then look ahead to another key offseason for Sam Presti and the front office.


As always thanks for listening!

Apr 18, 202301:53:26
Thunder Chop Session w/Brandon, Ryan and Spenser

Thunder Chop Session w/Brandon, Ryan and Spenser

Brandon Ryan and Spenser dive deep into all things thunder as the regular season winds down!


As always, thanks for listening!

Apr 06, 202302:07:21