Jay King hosts solo as Sam Packard is 'too soft' with a playoff bug, opening up Celtics playoff questions.
Jay King opens the episode alone, joking that co-host Sam Packard is sick and 'too soft' for playoff podcasting. He announces a Q&A format to discuss the Celtics' playoff readiness. The first question asks about using a three-guard lineup against Atlanta, but King predicts they'll stay bigger with Al Horford or Robert Williams. He reflects on last season's playoffs, noting Daniel Theis's importance and Robert Williams' injury struggles. King highlights that Robert Williams is now healthy after playing only 35 games this season, which is crucial for the Celtics' defense. A question about Grant Williams' role leads to an analysis of his value as a physical defender and shooter, though King notes Malcolm Brogdon provides alternatives. Listener Trevi shares three unconventional fears: overlooking Atlanta, Cleveland beating Milwaukee, and Andrew Wiggins returning. King debates these, arguing Milwaukee is the bigger threat and emphasizing Robert Williams' health as the real concern. Another question addresses Joe Mazzulla's coaching against Quinn Snyder, with King stating Mazzulla has more tools but will face tougher tests later against experienced coaches like Doc Rivers. A discussion on the Heat vs. Bulls play-in game leads King to lean toward Chicago as a tougher matchup for Milwaukee due to their shot-making. The episode includes a promotional segment for New York Times Games. Listener Grant gives gambling advice, suggesting bets on Celtics team totals and MVP odds. King ends with a Ted Lasso reference when asked about the Celtics' 'Nate Shelley', humorously struggling to find a direct comparison. He promises more frequent Q&A podcasts during the playoffs.
