Hawks must expect a 'physical' series with Knicks
Get the full intelligence
Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “Hawks must expect a 'physical' series with Knicks” inside PodZeus.
The Dukes & Bell podcast discusses the Atlanta Hawks' upcoming NBA playoff series against the New York Knicks, emphasizing the physical and intense nature of the matchup. Hosts Steve Coonan and Steve Holman reflect on the team's journey to the playoffs, highlighting the front office's strategic moves, including multiple trades and draft acquisitions, which have reshaped the roster. They praise CEO Steve Holman's passionate, authentic commentary and the team's young core, particularly players like Nikhil Alexander and Dyson Daniels, who have shown significant growth. The conversation also touches on broader NBA issues, including the controversial 'tanking' culture, the need for league reform, and the importance of fan support. The hosts stress the critical role Atlanta fans play in creating a loud, energetic home-court advantage, especially given the high cost of Knicks tickets and the city's growing basketball identity.
The Hawks are preparing for a physically demanding series against the Knicks, with referees expected to allow more aggressive play.
The Hawks' front office, led by CEO Steve Holman and executive Anse Saleh, has made bold, impactful moves through trades and draft picks to build a competitive young core.
Players like Nikhil Alexander and Dyson Daniels have emerged as key contributors, with strong cases for postseason honors.
The team's success is tied to fan support—Atlanta fans are urged to attend games to create a loud, intimidating home environment.
Broader NBA concerns about tanking and league integrity are discussed, with calls for structural reform to protect the game's long-term health.
Playoff Preview: Hawks vs. Knicks
“If that's going to be the situation with us in New York, this is going to be a physical series.”
Front Office Excellence and Team Building
Discussion of the Hawks' strategic front office decisions, including trades and draft picks, and the leadership of CEO Steve Holman and executive Anse Saleh.
Player Development and Postseason Recognition
“Rarely has a player jump from nine and a half points a game to over 20.”
Fan Support and Home-Court Advantage
“The only way we keep other people out of the building is you guys keep doing a great job and keep winning.”
NBA Integrity and Tanking Concerns
Critical discussion of the tanking culture in the NBA, the need for league reform, and the long-term impact on team building and fan engagement.
“If that's going to be the situation with us in New York, this is going to be a physical series.”
“The integrity of the game and the quality of the game is what matters. Number one, absolute number one.”
“Rarely has a player jump from nine and a half points a game to over 20.”
Hosts
Atlanta Hawks
other
Steve Holman
person
New York Knicks
other
Steve Coonan
person
Sports Radio 92.9 The Game
media
Anse Saleh
person
Nikhil Alexander
person
Draft Picks
other
Orlando Magic
other
Dyson Daniels
person
Jonathan Kuminga needs to 'be a star' for Hawks to make noise in playoffs
Dukes & Bell • 11m • 3/31/2026
Braves lineup strong enough can keep them afloat while pitching gets healthy
Dukes & Bell • 13m • 3/31/2026
Why it's time for Tiger Woods to press pause on golf
Dukes & Bell • 11m • 3/31/2026
Atlanta has officially become the center of the world for soccer
Dukes & Bell • 12m • 3/31/2026
Kirby Smart was is 'authentic self' with viral moment with Amarius Mims
Dukes & Bell • 13m • 3/31/2026
Get the full intelligence
Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “Hawks must expect a 'physical' series with Knicks” inside PodZeus.
Start discovering podcast insights today
Start with a 7-day trial and explore a growing catalog of popular podcasts. No credit card required.
No credit card required • 7-day trial • Cancel anytime