SI's Chris Mannix joins, says the Sixers shouldn't give the Celtics a problem
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In this episode of WEEI Afternoons, hosts Rich Ken and Ted Johnson welcome Sports Illustrated's Chris Mannix to discuss the ongoing Celtics vs. 76ers playoff series. Mannix expresses confidence that Boston will bounce back from a sloppy Game 5, predicting a decisive victory tonight despite their recent offensive struggles. He highlights Joel Embiid's dominant performance and the Celtics' inability to contain him, while also voicing concern about Boston's lack of frontcourt depth and physicality, especially against tougher matchups like Atlanta or New York. Mannix praises Orlando's unexpected defensive resurgence and their ability to overcome injuries, calling their playoff run sustainable. The conversation then shifts to film, with the hosts and Mannix passionately discussing the Creed movies, particularly the emotional depth and acting of Sylvester Stallone and Michael B. Jordan. They reflect on standout scenes, monologues, and personal connections to films like Fargo, Goodfellas, Sideways, and Mandy, sharing their favorite pump-up movies and cinematic influences. The episode closes with a strong endorsement of Toyota's Tundra and Tacoma vehicles, emphasizing durability and performance.
The Celtics are expected to bounce back from their sloppy Game 5 performance and win decisively in Game 6.
Joel Embiid's dominance in Game 5 exposed the Celtics' lack of physicality and frontcourt depth.
Chris Mannix believes Boston's three-point-heavy offense is effective but needs more adaptability to the rim in close games.
Orlando's defensive resurgence is sustainable and could pose a serious threat to the Celtics in future rounds.
The Creed films, especially the first one, are praised as some of the best in the Rocky franchise and among the best sports movies ever made.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Toyota Sponsorship & Game 5 Recap
The episode opens with a promotional segment for the 2026 Toyota RAV4, followed by a discussion on the Celtics' frustrating Game 5 loss, with hosts expressing confusion over the team's performance and calling for a bounce-back game.
Chris Mannix on Celtics' Struggles & Series Outlook
“I think those shots are going to fall tonight. I think their defense is going to ratchet up. They'll play with a little bit more urgency.”
Controlling Joel Embiid & Frontcourt Concerns
“You need contributions from all three of your bigs, and if you don't get them, you might have to deal with some screwy numbers on the other end.”
Orlando's Unexpected Playoff Run
“This is a top two defensive team. Each of the last two seasons. This year, they were 14th in the NBA. They haven't, I mean, they've had some injuries.”
The Creed Film Series & Personal Movie Reflections
The conversation shifts to film as hosts and Mannix passionately discuss the Creed movies, Stallone’s emotional performance, and standout scenes. They reflect on personal favorites like Fargo, Goodfellas, and Mandy, sharing how these films impact their lives and work.
“The biggest opponent is staring right back at you. And he has him just kind of, you just take some time with that guy looking across from you right now.”
“Mandy is my favorite movie of the last 10 years. It's effing weird. But it's awesome.”
“I think those shots are going to fall tonight. I think their defense is going to ratchet up. They'll play with a little bit more urgency.”
Hosts
Guest
Boston Celtics
other
Chris Mannix
person
Philadelphia 76ers
other
Sylvester Stallone
person
Creed (2015)
media
Joel Embiid
person
Orlando Magic
other
Michael B. Jordan
person
Peyton Pritchard
person
Creed III
media
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