Stan Van Gundy opens up on the harsh playoff reality facing Knicks

Playoffs Preview: Stan Van Gundy on Knicks, Pistons, and Potential Celtics Showdown

Former NBA coach and TNT analyst Stan Van Gundy offers his insights on the upcoming playoffs, including a potential first-round matchup between the New York Knicks and Detroit Pistons, and a possible second-round clash with the Boston Celtics.

Knicks vs. Pistons: A First-Round Outlook

Q: What are your initial thoughts regarding a potential Knicks-Pistons first-round playoff series?

A: The Pistons are a formidable team. Coach J.B. Bickerstaff has done an exceptional job, and Cade Cunningham is arguably the most undervalued star in the league. Due to their previous season’s struggles, it took time for many to recognize their improvement this year, and even now, Cunningham may not be receiving the recognition he deserves. He is a genuine star. Detroit excels defensively and dominates on the boards. They are capable of competing with New York, making for what I anticipate would be a challenging series. I’m not a predictor, but I expect any games in that series to be intensely contested. I would probably favor the Knicks to win in seven games. I believe there’s minimal separation between these two teams. In fact, concerning the Knicks at full strength, Detroit might pose a greater threat to them than Milwaukee or Indiana. While Indiana defeated them previously, the Knicks were not at full strength then. Of course, with Damian Lillard in the mix, the dynamic changes significantly. Even then, I would still lean towards the Knicks, but it would undoubtedly be a highly competitive series.

The Pistons’ Threat: Overlooking Detroit?

Q: Is there any risk of the Knicks underestimating the Pistons?

A: I am certain that Coach Tom Thibodeau and his staff will not overlook any opponent. Thibodeau has always maintained this approach. They will have significant respect for Detroit and their accomplishments. The Knicks also possess veteran players who have experienced playoff battles and are mature. They understand the importance of respecting every opponent. Observing Detroit’s performance, their level of play, and their competitiveness, it’s impossible to anticipate an easy series. That is simply not a possibility.

Cade Cunningham’s Strengths

Q: What qualities make Cade Cunningham stand out?

A: His size for a guard is a primary factor. He is tall and possesses great length. If he gains even a slight advantage, using his shoulder to create space, recovering defensively becomes extremely difficult. He effectively varies his pace and demonstrates excellent basketball IQ, along with impressive court vision. His decision-making has noticeably improved throughout his career, both in shot selection and passing. He exhibits a deeper understanding of the game as he gains more experience. His attributes as a sizable point guard are fundamental to his game. He is no longer a player you can afford to leave unguarded, as he was when he initially entered the league. This evolution enhances his ability to penetrate, given he is no longer a non-shooter. Furthermore, his defense has also improved, in my assessment. Shooting 35 percent from three-point range on six attempts per game, he also gets to the free-throw line and converts those opportunities. While his turnover rate remains slightly elevated, he averages nine assists per game. He is truly an exceptional player. The point guard matchup in a potential series would be captivating. While Jalen Brunson won’t directly guard Cade Cunningham, observing these two players compete would be a highlight of that series. Personally, I believe Karl-Anthony Towns would be too much for them to handle, likely being the deciding factor. Although Detroit has resilient players, they lack anyone who can effectively match up with Towns.

Knicks vs. Celtics: Overcoming the Mental Hurdle?

Q: How can the Knicks overcome any perceived psychological disadvantage against the Celtics should they face them in the second round?

A: It’s difficult to address that question directly, as I’m not convinced there is a psychological barrier. I believe teams consistently defeat other teams because they are simply better. The Celtics’ roster is demonstrably superior to the Knicks’. Their top nine players are all exceptionally talented without any apparent weaknesses. They are all capable players on both ends of the court. There isn’t a player you can exploit or disregard defensively. If a psychological factor exists, it’s not something I am aware of.

Madison Square Garden’s Playoff Atmosphere

Q: How significant of an impact can Madison Square Garden have during a playoff series?

A: It will have a similar level of impact as Boston’s home court. Boston also boasts an excellent home crowd. Should a second-round series materialize, the atmosphere would be incredible. I don’t believe Madison Square Garden provides a greater home-court advantage than Boston. The atmosphere in both venues throughout that series would be remarkable.

Fan Passion: Love or Hate Affair?

Q: Do you perceive a strong connection between the fans and the Knicks?

A: They are undoubtedly passionate. “Love affair?” I’m unsure. Perhaps a “love affair” when they perform well, and a “hate affair” when they struggle. Knicks and Philadelphia fans are, to a degree, fair-weather supporters. They adore their team when they are winning, but they will readily boo them off the court during periods of poor performance. This is not a fanbase particularly known for unwavering support.

Keys to Knicks Victory Over Celtics

Q: What elements must align for the Knicks to defeat the Celtics?

A: They will need to significantly improve defensively. The Knicks have not been a consistently strong defensive team. They will need to elevate their defensive performance considerably. Against the Celtics, individual defense becomes paramount, requiring players to effectively guard their assignments and contain dribble penetration. Excessive help defense will lead to open three-point opportunities for Boston, given their exceptional shooting. While New York can also stretch the floor and shoot threes, Boston’s advantage lies in possessing superior individual defenders. They are likely better equipped to defend New York one-on-one than vice versa. For New York to prevail in that series, enhanced individual defense will be crucial. Despite the Knicks’ typically sound defensive coaching schemes, against the Celtics’ consistent ball movement and rotations, securing four wins becomes extremely challenging if one-on-one defense falters. It’s possible to win a game or two if the Celtics experience an off-shooting night and become overly reliant on threes, but winning four times without containing dribble penetration will be a major obstacle. Dominating the rebounding battle against the Celtics is also essential. Although the Celtics are a respectable rebounding team, the Knicks have the potential to be physically assertive on the boards and must capitalize on this advantage if they meet. While the Celtics may have a bench advantage, its impact diminishes in a playoff series where Coach Thibodeau tends to heavily utilize his starters for extended minutes. Therefore, for the Knicks, the key areas for success are improved ball containment to limit rotations and open threes, and a significant advantage in rebounding.

Mitchell Robinson’s Impact

Q: How much of a contribution can a healthy Mitchell Robinson make in that area?

A: He is a substantial asset defensively and on the glass. His presence also allows Kristaps Porzingis and Al Horford to operate closer to the basket when he is on the court, preventing them from being stretched out defensively. Coach Thibodeau gains tactical flexibility, capable of adapting lineups based on game situations. However, if Karl-Anthony Towns is assigned to guard a power forward in Boston’s starting lineup—like Jayson Tatum or Jaylen Brown, or even Jrue Holiday—challenging matchups emerge. Everything involves trade-offs, and Boston’s strength is minimizing these compromises. Their players are effective on both ends of the court. They require guarding on the perimeter and are adept at switching defenses.

Projected Series Competitiveness

Q: How competitive do you anticipate a Knicks-Celtics series would be?

A: I expect it to be very hard-fought and highly competitive, fueled by considerable pride on both sides. Players like Brunson, Hart, Bridges, and Anunoby are all exceptional competitors, as we witnessed last year. Ultimately, Boston simply possesses slightly superior overall talent. The series could extend to seven games, or potentially be concluded in five, but anticipate each game to be closely contested. Coach Thibodeau will have his team meticulously prepared and intensely focused. Brunson, proven last year, is a player you want in crucial, game-deciding moments.

Thibodeau’s Approach to Tatum

Q: How do you expect Coach Thibodeau to strategize against Jayson Tatum?

A: There are limitations to strategic schemes. While you can devise schemes against certain stars in the league, like blitzing pick-and-rolls or sending multiple defenders, consistently bringing double-teams against Boston is risky due to their spacing. Every player on their roster is a capable three-point shooter. If you cannot effectively guard players one-on-one and lack the versatility to switch extensively in pick-and-roll situations while containing the ball, defense becomes very difficult. The Knicks will be well-prepared, but defending Boston fundamentally relies on individual ball-stopping ability. They are not a strong offensive rebounding team, nor are they a high-volume transition team, or frequent free-throw attempt team. However, you must address all these areas diligently. Discipline coupled with effective individual defense is paramount. Conversely, on offense, creating favorable matchups and exploiting mismatches is crucial, but challenging because Boston’s players are versatile defenders. The Oklahoma City Thunder’s roster is the closest to Boston’s in terms of two-way player talent. Even Cleveland’s roster is not quite at Boston’s level in fielding players effective at both ends, making it challenging to find exploitable mismatches.

Potential X-Factor for the Knicks

Q: Who could emerge as an X-factor for the Knicks in a series against the Celtics?

A: I’m hesitant to pinpoint a specific X-factor. Josh Hart’s shooting performance will be critical. When facing the Knicks, defenses will prioritize stopping Brunson and Towns, with Bridges and Anunoby playing at a high level. Opponents might focus defensive help on Hart, hoping he cannot consistently punish them from beyond the arc and keeping him off the offensive boards. If he efficiently makes shots, the Knicks’ offense becomes more akin to Boston’s in terms of challenging defensive schemes. Also, the degree to which Mitchell Robinson is utilized and performs will significantly impact the series outcome. It will be a demanding series. Boston’s playoff success is not a recent trend; they have consistently reached the later stages of the playoffs annually. They possess one of the best-constructed rosters I have observed in the league. Coach Joe Mazzulla adheres to his system. Despite criticisms about their three-point reliance, Mazzulla and the players believe in their playing style, and it has proven effective. They are a difficult team to defend.

Knicks-Celtics Rivalry Description

Q: How would you characterize the Knicks-Celtics rivalry?

A: They are two of the league’s iconic franchises, along with the Lakers, forming the trio of historically significant franchises. While Boston has achieved significantly more success, the rivalry is immense, and the passion surrounding a series between them would be off the charts. Any NBA fan would be compelled to watch every game of that series.

Knicks vs. Cavaliers Series Prediction

Q: What about a Knicks-Cavaliers series?

A: Cleveland’s backcourt defense, while competent, is not on par with Boston’s, particularly defensively. Offensively, they are stronger, but the Knicks could exploit certain matchups. I predict that series would be extremely close. Throughout the Knicks’ playoff journey this year, expect highly competitive basketball. It will be exciting to watch them.

Reaction to Karl-Anthony Towns Trade

Q: What was your immediate reaction when the Knicks traded for Karl-Anthony Towns last October?

A: My initial thought was that the acquisition significantly boosted their talent level. He’s among the premier offensive players in the league, providing incredible versatility. He can play both forward positions and center, alongside Mitchell Robinson or as the sole center. He stretches the floor, scores in the post, and is a great rebounder. Essentially, they acquired more talent, which isn’t a criticism of Julius Randle, but they added a top-tier big man. Beyond his scoring, his rebounding has been remarkable. They have transformed into one of the league’s premier offensive teams when at full strength. Pairing him with Brunson creates a formidable offensive duo.

Towns’ Playoff Impact

Q: Does his talent and offensive prowess elevate them into a more dangerous playoff team?

A: Absolutely, especially his versatility. Coach Thibodeau now possesses numerous options, depending on the opponent and game situations, to deploy various lineups—playing very big or a more standard-sized lineup (though never truly small with Towns). He can prioritize defense or offense more easily. Towns’ size, shooting ability, and rebounding prowess mean they do not sacrifice rebounding for floor spacing. He provides incredible flexibility, enabling Thibodeau to address nearly any scenario. His presence also draws significant defensive attention, simplifying the game for his teammates. Everyone on the team benefits from having him on the court. While Julius Randle is a valuable player—an unselfish passer—his style is more isolation-oriented and can disrupt offensive flow. Karl-Anthony Towns, conversely, operates with a different rhythm, catching and shooting, attacking closeouts, or initiating further ball movement and pick-and-rolls, resulting in a different offensive tempo and pace.

Concerns About Record vs. Top Teams

Q: How concerning is the Knicks’ 0-9 record against the Celtics, Cavaliers, and Thunder, and their 12-20 record against winning teams overall?

A: Part of that record is attributable to injuries and team fluctuations throughout the season, but it is still a factor of concern. Realistically, it’s not entirely surprising. The Knicks are a good team, but those teams mentioned are likely superior, boasting more complete rosters. The Knicks have improved from last year; acquiring Towns has been beneficial. However, I don’t believe they are yet at the level of Cleveland, Boston, or Oklahoma City.

Anunoby Trade Impact

Q: What was your feeling when the Knicks acquired OG Anunoby?

A: The Knicks have recognized that playoff success hinges less on the depth of their ninth and tenth players, and more on their core starters. Their primary five players are significantly stronger than they were prior to these key trades. Both the Anunoby and Towns acquisitions significantly enhance their competitiveness. The Knicks were competitive in last year’s playoffs and are even more formidable now. Anunoby’s health was a factor in last year’s playoffs. They are a much greater threat this year. Before these trades, a deep playoff run beyond the second round seemed improbable due to talent limitations. Now, they possess the talent to compete at a higher level.

The Bridges Trade Assessment

Q: The third major trade was for Mikal Bridges. Your assessment?

A: That trade was an obvious decision. While he experienced a slower offensive start this year, leading to some questions, a player like him requires adjustment. He transitioned from a role player in Phoenix to a primary scorer in Brooklyn, and now integrates into a team built around Brunson. This requires role adaptation and takes time. However, he has ultimately had an excellent year. The Knicks’ front office and coaching staff have done an exceptional job assembling this roster and integrating the pieces. Their combined efforts are among the best in the league in team construction and development.

Josh Hart’s Competitiveness

Q: Your thoughts on Josh Hart?

A: I coached Josh in New Orleans. His toughness and competitiveness are unparalleled in the league. He consistently plays bigger than his listed size, is a remarkable rebounder, and one of the best finishers in transition. He is fearless in any situation. He is among the most intense competitors in the NBA. My brother Jeff often says about playoff series, “You must be at your best when your best is needed,” and that accurately describes Josh Hart.

Brunson’s Superstar Rise

Q: Are you surprised by Jalen Brunson’s ascension to superstardom?

A: Yes. Perhaps “stunned” is too strong, but “surprised,” yes. I acknowledge underestimating the extent of his potential. I recognized his talent in Dallas and initially felt the Knicks overspent when signing him. I believed they offered too much. In retrospect, it’s clear they secured one of the biggest bargains in the NBA. Beyond his skills, his competitive character is exceptional. These qualities may not be fully apparent from an outsider’s perspective, but his performance as a primary player has been remarkable. I am surprised but delighted because he embodies the type of player I admire—tough, focused on winning, not driven by individual statistics, and consistently impactful. His rise is a remarkable narrative.

Appreciation for Coach Thibodeau

Q: What do you appreciate about Coach Thibodeau?

A: His extensive experience, consistently navigating diverse situations and achieving success across various tenures. He has adapted his coaching style with the evolving game, while adhering to core principles. His teams are consistently among the most prepared in the league every night. He possesses a deep understanding of maximizing player talents, placing them in positions to excel. It’s not coincidental that Julius Randle experienced some of his best seasons under Thibodeau. Jalen Brunson has flourished, OG Anunoby has elevated his game, and Karl-Anthony Towns is currently having a career-best year. Retrospectively, the emergence of Jimmy Butler in Chicago, and the consistent high level of Luol Deng, highlight his ability to develop players and maximize their potential. While he is beginning to receive more recognition, he has always been an underrated offensive coach, and simply an exceptional basketball coach. He is an educator, and understands what winning requires.

Celtics’ Championship Potential

Q: Would it surprise you if the Celtics repeat as NBA champions?

A: No, it would not surprise me at all. Unless they experience an extended shooting slump—unlikely with numerous capable three-point shooters on the roster—they are the team to beat until someone defeats them. The Celtics, Cleveland, Oklahoma City, and potentially the Lakers and Warriors, could all contend. If any of these teams won the championship, it wouldn’t be surprising. Any other team winning would be more unexpected, including New York, Denver, or Houston.

Expectations for Knicks Fans

Q: What message would you convey to long-suffering Knicks fans regarding their expectations for this team?

A: A strong argument can be made that they should win their first-round series, but beyond that, they will likely be underdogs. Knicks fans should anticipate a team that will compete intensely every game in the playoffs, and that is what they will witness. This team is highly competitive, well-prepared, possesses two genuine stars, and has strong complementary players. They also have roster versatility with Mitchell Robinson. They are a good team, though still not as inherently talented as some of the top contenders.