The Ryen Russillo Podcast Summary

Episode Title: Are the Knicks Actually Better? Plus, Haliburton’s Likability, OKC’s Dominant Game 2, and the Warriors' Chances Without Steph With Jorge Sedano
Host: Ryan Rosillo
Guests: George Sedano
Release Date: May 8, 2025

1. Knicks vs. Celtics Playoff Series

a. Series Overview and Current Standings

Ryan Rosillo opens the discussion by highlighting the surprising performance of the New York Knicks, who are currently leading the series against the Boston Celtics by two games to zero. This is particularly unexpected given Boston’s historical dominance and recent successes.

b. Game One Breakdown

Rosillo delves into Game One, emphasizing Boston’s struggles, especially their inefficiency from the three-point line. He states, “The Celtics missed 45 threes in game one. An NBA record missed threes.” ([16:38]) This poor shooting performance was a critical factor in the Knicks' victory.

c. Defensive Strategies and Performance

The Knicks' defensive prowess is a focal point. Rosillo praises their defense, especially their containment of Jalen Brunson: “The Knicks did one of the best jobs defending Brunson... They contained him effectively.” ([20:11]) He credits Mitchell Robinson for his significant impact on both interior and perimeter defense, noting his contribution to the Knicks’ improved defensive ranking.

d. Player Performances

• Julius Randle and Mitchell Robinson: Rosillo highlights Randle’s steady play and Robinson’s defensive versatility, which have been instrumental in the Knicks' success.
• Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown: The Celtics’ stars have been struggling, with Rosillo pointing out Tatum’s missed crucial shots, such as “[...] Tatum didn't take that shot again, which was a bad sign” ([23:24]).

e. Coaching and Tactical Adjustments

George Sedano discusses the coaching strategies employed by Tom Thibodeau, suggesting that his reluctance to adapt may be costing the Celtics: “Can Missoula do that, too? And look, ultimately...” ([22:12]) Sedano believes that Thibodeau’s stubbornness in sticking to traditional strategies has made it difficult for the Celtics to counter the Knicks' adaptability.

2. OKC’s Dominant Performance in Game Two

a. Game Two Analysis

Rosillo shifts focus to the Oklahoma City Thunder’s impressive performance in Game Two against Denver, underscoring their ability to execute game plans efficiently: “Everything OKC did last night worked.” ([39:49])

b. Haliburton’s Impact

George Sedano praises Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) and his teammate, Haliburton, emphasizing Haliburton’s versatility and likability on the court: “His personality is the last personality that you'd get upset with...” ([33:24])

c. Team Chemistry and Coaching

Sedano highlights the Thunder’s cohesive team dynamics and the effective coaching strategies of head coach Mark Daigneault: “The confidence of Dagnal in the group and the willingness to understand that everything is a teachable moment...” ([43:31])

3. Warriors’ Chances Without Steph Curry

a. Impact of Curry’s Absence

The discussion turns to the Golden State Warriors and the significant impact of Stephen Curry’s hamstring injury. Rosillo expresses skepticism about their championship prospects without their star player: “I didn't think they would have a chance against Minnesota. And then, you know, Doc Rivers theory kicks in again.” ([39:49])

b. Tactical Adjustments and Player Roles

Sedano analyzes potential strategies the Warriors might employ to compensate for Curry’s absence, such as leaning more on Draymond Green’s rebounding and Rudy Gobert’s defense: “If Finch goes with Rudy, he can handle things without Draymond...” ([50:52])

c. Player Development and Future Prospects

Both hosts discuss the development of younger players like Anthony Edwards and their roles in their respective teams. Rosillo points out Edwards’ need to balance aggression with discipline: “Anthony Edwards needs to start figuring out a way to not upon landing after every layup attempt...” ([50:18])

4. Broader Playoff Landscape and Team Dynamics

a. Coaching Strategies Across the Board

Sedano emphasizes the evolving nature of coaching in the playoffs, drawing parallels with successful coaches like Eric Spoelstra: “Tibbs is learning that, or has learned that over time, too.” ([22:12])

b. Team Adaptability and Resilience

The conversation underscores the importance of adaptability and resilience in the playoffs. Rosillo notes how teams are adjusting their strategies based on regular-season performances and maintaining confidence despite setbacks: “The Knicks are playing better defensively... this is one of the best jobs I've seen...” ([26:51])

c. Comparisons to Previous Playoff Eras

Sedano draws comparisons to past playoff series, such as the Miami-Milwaukee series, to illustrate current team performances and potential outcomes: “It reminds me a bit of Milwaukee...” ([21:57])

5. Insights on Player Likability and Team Chemistry

a. Haliburton’s Likability

The hosts discuss Haliburton’s standing among peers and fans, addressing his perceived likability and how it affects his reputation: “Halliburton carries himself in a way that is like, really, I enjoy it...” ([33:24])

b. Team Chemistry and Role Clarity

Sedano highlights the importance of role clarity and team chemistry, praising the Thunder’s understanding of player roles and mutual respect: “They understand the pecking order... Shay’s team, J Dub and Chet...” ([43:31])

6. Concluding Thoughts

a. Potential Series Outcomes

Rosillo and Sedano speculate on the potential outcomes of the ongoing series, considering team performances, coaching strategies, and player health: “How do you see it when you spend months traveling around...” ([16:38])

b. Future Playoff Predictions

The podcast concludes with predictions for the remaining playoff games, taking into account the current momentum and team adjustments: “I think teams are going to be a little more shrewd in that regard...” ([39:49])

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Ryan Rosillo ([16:38]): “The Knicks did it. They really did it. They're up 2-0 in this series and everybody is pissed off about Boston.”

• George Sedano ([20:11]): “The Knicks are playing better defensively, Ryan, than they've played all season.”

• Ryan Rosillo ([23:24]): “The Mitchell stuff has been terrific. It's been a difference in this series.”

• George Sedano ([33:24]): “Halliburton carries himself in a way that is like, really, I enjoy it because I think he's that good.”

• Ryan Rosillo ([39:49]): “I did think about OKC with their win last night, that 87 points in the first half. Everything worked for OKC.”

• George Sedano ([43:31]): “The confidence of Dagnal in the group and the willingness to understand that everything is a teachable moment.”

• Ryan Rosillo ([50:18]): “Anthony Edwards is due for a big breakout here. 42 and 32% splits in the playoff, shooting wise.”

• George Sedano ([50:52]): “It would be incredibly tough [for Warriors without Steph], but I am willing to make that bet because they can muck it up in a way that Golden State can't keep up with.”

Conclusion

This episode provides an in-depth analysis of the current NBA playoff series, focusing on the unexpected performance of the New York Knicks against the Boston Celtics, the Oklahoma City Thunder’s strategic gameplay, and the Golden State Warriors' prospects without their star player, Stephen Curry. Through insightful discussions and expert commentary from guest George Sedano, listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of the evolving dynamics in the playoffs, team strategies, and individual player performances that are shaping the outcomes of these high-stakes games.