Podcast Summary: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg – Hour 3: Kendrick Perkins Previews Knicks-Celtics

Release Date: May 5, 2025

Hosts: Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, Peter Rosenberg

In the third hour of the "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" podcast, hosts Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg delve deep into the highly anticipated playoff matchup between the New York Knicks and the Boston Celtics. Featuring insightful analysis from NBA veteran Kendrick Perkins, the discussion navigates through team strategies, player performances, and the potential implications for Knicks' head coach Tom Thibodeau.

1. Series Prediction and Team Analysis

Kendrick Perkins kicks off the discussion by forecasting the series to extend to seven games. He emphasizes the Celtics' current vulnerabilities, particularly their struggles with injuries, which he believes the Knicks can capitalize on. Perkins states, "I have the Celtics seven. And look, I think the Celtics are a bit vulnerable right now, especially with dealing with their injuries..." [01:15].

Perkins highlights the Knicks' readiness, drawing parallels to their physical first-round series against the Pistons where they faced full-court pressure and overcame adversity. He asserts, "I think this Knicks team is going to be ready to play. I think they're going to be ready to play." [01:25].

2. Strategic Insights and Key Players

The conversation shifts to specific strategies the Knicks must employ to counter the Celtics effectively. Perkins underscores the importance of limiting the Celtics' possessions and increasing turnovers, particularly in transition play. "I want to see those dumbass turnovers that, you know, be happening with the Knicks, especially in transition." [02:59].

Anthony Towns is spotlighted as a pivotal player whose performance could tilt the series in the Knicks' favor. Perkins stresses the need for Towns to be assertive and aggressive in the post, avoiding passive play to maximize his scoring potential. "I need to see Carl Anthony Towns that I saw in the Western Conference semifinals against the Denver Nuggets when he outplayed Nikola Jokic." [05:22].

3. Home Court Advantage and Series Dynamics

Discussing home court advantage, Perkins believes it plays a crucial role, especially for the Knicks at Madison Square Garden. He recommends that the Knicks aim to steal at least one game on the road to shift momentum. "For the Knicks, it does. I think they need to protect when they get back to New York, but they need to try to come out and steal one of these games." [08:18].

Alan Hahn adds that the Celtics have key players dealing with injuries, which could further influence the series outcome. "The Celtics... have to be aware of all those things." [09:18].

4. Implications for Tom Thibodeau

A significant portion of the discussion centers around Knicks' head coach Tom Thibodeau and the stakes of the series for his tenure. Perkins candidly shares his perspective on Thibodeau's job security, linking it directly to the series outcome. "This series has to go seven games in order for him to keep his job." [03:57].

The hosts and callers debate the realism of Perkins' assertion, with Peter Rosenberg expressing skepticism but acknowledging the high-pressure environment. "I don't think he survives if they get completely embarrassed that they're in every game." [16:30].

5. Broader NBA Playoff Context

Beyond the Knicks-Celtics series, the podcast touches upon other NBA playoff matchups and their potential impacts. Perkins briefly analyzes the Minnesota Timberwolves' performance against the Golden State Warriors, noting the Timberwolves' depth and the Warriors' shooting struggles. "I don't see that series going past these games, to be honest." [11:51].

Additionally, the discussion covers the Cleveland Cavaliers' injury woes, which could jeopardize their playoff aspirations. Perkins remarks on the importance of player health, aligning with former NBA star Tim Duncan's belief that luck plays a role in championship runs. "Part of being lucky is being healthy." [10:15].

6. Audience Interaction and Historical Context

Listeners contribute to the conversation by sharing nostalgic memories of past Knicks-Celtics battles and discussing legendary players. One caller reminisces about the Knicks' 1970s championship runs, providing historical context that enriches the current analysis. "The Knicks beat the Celtics three times. No, twice." [20:28].

These anecdotes serve to underscore the enduring rivalry between the two franchises and the high expectations surrounding the current series.

7. Closing Remarks and Takeaways

As the episode wraps up, the hosts reiterate the high stakes of the Knicks-Celtics series, emphasizing the blend of strategic preparation and player execution that will determine the eventual outcome. Perkins' insights offer a comprehensive roadmap for how the Knicks can navigate the challenges posed by the Celtics, with the overarching narrative highlighting the thin line between success and potential coaching turnover.

Key Takeaways:

• Series Length: Kendrick Perkins predicts a seven-game series, citing Celtics' injuries and Knicks' resilience.
• Strategic Focus: Emphasis on limiting opponent's possessions, increasing turnovers, and leveraging Anthony Towns' offensive capabilities.
• Coach's Stakes: Tom Thibodeau's job security is closely tied to the series outcome, with significant pressure to perform.
• Historical Rivalry: Nostalgic references to past Knicks-Celtics battles highlight the intensity and significance of the current matchup.

For listeners seeking an in-depth analysis of the Knicks vs. Celtics playoff series, this episode offers expert insights, strategic breakdowns, and engaging discussions that illuminate the high-stakes environment of NBA playoffs.