OF

Off The Pike with Brian Barrett

The Ringer

A Disastrous Second Half for the Celts, the B’s Stay Alive, and Julian McWilliams on Alex Cora

Apr 29, 20261h 50m
Summary

In this episode of Off the Pike, host Brian Barrett breaks down a frustrating night for Boston sports fans. The episode centers on an ugly loss for the Celtics at the Garden, where they squandered an opportunity to close out the Philadelphia 76ers, forcing a high-stakes Game 6. Barrett dissects the team’s recurring issues, specifically highlighting the team's stagnant offense in the second half, predictable isolation play, and a lack of discipline that allowed Philadelphia to dictate the pace. A major focal point of the discussion is the struggles of key role players. Barrett questions Derrick White’s recent dip in performance and shooting confidence, arguing that the team might need to lean more heavily on Peyton Pritchard’s offensive spark. Additionally, the episode addresses the persistent foul trouble plaguing the frontcourt, noting how the inability of players like Neemias Queta to stay on the floor disrupted the team's defensive rotation against Joel Embiid. The episode also features a segment with CBS Sports’ Julian McWilliams, who provides an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the circumstances surrounding the departure of Alex Cora.

Updated Apr 29, 2026

About This Episode

Brian recaps the Celtics’ loss to the 76ers, including an incredibly disappointing second half, before getting to the Bruins’ overtime win against the Sabres to send the series back to Boston (0:00). Then, he chats with CBS Sports’ Julian McWilliams about why the Red Sox fired Alex Cora, whether Cora or the front office is more to blame for the Sox’s struggles, whether the Sox have a player development problem that goes beyond the coaching staff, and more (39:00). Brian and Jamie end by discussing the latest Mike Vrabel drama (1:39:00). We want to hear from you! Leave Brian a message on the listener line at 617-396-7172. Or send us your questions for our mailbag at offthepike@gmail.com. The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available. Host: Brian Barrett Guest: Julian McWilliams Producer: Jamie McClellan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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