Dave Portnoy Shares Insights on Celtics Rivalry

In a recent episode of “The Unknown Show,” Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy discussed his encounter with Mikal Bridges ahead of the highly anticipated Game 5 between the Celtics and Knicks. They crossed paths at their shared hotel in Boston, prompting Portnoy to relay some teasing advice to Bridges regarding the competition.

“The Knicks were impressive in the fourth quarter of their last game,” Portnoy remarked, referencing the team’s 121-113 victory at Madison Square Garden on Monday night.

“They weren’t just making easy shots. Jalen Branson was phenomenal, hitting everything. I even saw Mikal at the hotel this morning and said something lighthearted like, ‘Hey, don’t hurt your wrist.’”

Co-host Ryan Whitney chimed in, asking if Portnoy actually spoke to Bridges. Portnoy clarified that it was all in jest, describing the interaction. “He reminded me of someone you’d see casually sitting on a bar stool. He jokingly nudged me, and I was like, ‘It’s all good.’ But he was genuinely friendly and happy to see me,” he shared.

Portnoy is deeply invested in the Celtics, especially during this playoff run as they aim for a second consecutive championship. However, the team faced a significant setback when Jason Tatum suffered a non-contact injury late in the fourth quarter, despite an impressive 42-point performance.

On Tuesday, the team announced the grim news that Tatum had torn his right Achilles tendon. He has successfully undergone surgery, but there’s currently no timetable for his return.

Following this news, Portnoy took to social media to express his thoughts: “It’s not just about wins or losses anymore. It’s about the resilience of the human spirit,” he wrote, highlighting the gravity of the situation surrounding Tatum.

The Knicks, meanwhile, lead the series 3-1 as they head into Game 5 at TD Garden. Branson played a crucial role in their comeback during Game 4, scoring 26 points in the second half.

Bridges, who was traded to the Knicks last summer, is finding his footing in this critical first year with the team. Teammate Josh Hart praised him, stating, “He’s stepping up when it matters most; you can really see he’s made for these big moments.”

Catch Up on the Knicks’ 2025 NBA Playoffs Run

The Knicks have performed well in the playoffs, with Bridges averaging 15.4 points per game, contributing significantly to their success against Boston.

As Game 5 approaches, all eyes are on the Knicks as they prepare to face off against the Celtics again on Wednesday at 7 PM.