Don, Hahn & Rosenberg Podcast - Hour 1: Celebrating Clyde

Release Date: March 25, 2025

Introduction

In the inaugural hour of the "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" podcast, hosts Don LaGreca and Alan Hahn delve deep into the current state of the New York Knicks, examining their late-season challenges and playoff prospects. The episode culminates with a special tribute to the legendary Walt Clyde Frazier on his 80th birthday, blending insightful sports analysis with heartfelt reflections.

Knicks' Season and Playoff Implications

Back-to-Back Games and Schedule Intensities

The conversation kicks off with a discussion about the Knicks' demanding schedule, particularly the back-to-back games that have plagued the team in the final stretch of the season.

• Alan Hahn [00:35]: "On a Tuesday in New York City with Don LaGreca, Alan Hahn. Peter's off today."

• Don LaGreca [01:05]: "There's a depleted Mavericks team... Jalen Brunson without Jalen Brunson. That's going to be a real test."

Alan emphasizes the grueling nature of the remaining schedule:

• Alan Hahn [00:55]: "They'll play the Mavericks tonight, who are in the second game of a back-to-back."

• Don LaGreca [02:02]: "This is like first dozen right in March and April. Back-to-backs like a baseball team now."

Playing to Win vs. Tanking for Seeding

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around whether the Knicks should prioritize winning every game to secure the highest possible playoff seed or consider tanking some games to potentially avoid tougher matchups.

• Don LaGreca [03:14]: "I don't think you have to worry about losing tonight."

• Alan Hahn [03:35]: "You have to go into the playoffs playing your best basketball. Be careful what you wish."

• Don LaGreca [04:43]: "I don't believe that losing is ever okay."

Both hosts passionately argue against the notion of tanking, emphasizing the importance of maintaining competitive integrity and ensuring the team enters the playoffs in top form.

Injuries and Team Performance

The impact of key injuries on the Knicks' performance is another critical topic.

• Don LaGreca [05:22]: "There'll be no Mitch tonight. Robinson may not play because of the foot. I guess he was listed as questionable, right?"

• Alan Hahn [07:30]: "You're around this team every day. Can they really honestly look and say, we're good?"

The absence of players like Mitchell Robinson and Jalen Brunson is scrutinized, highlighting how these injuries could influence the team's ability to win crucial games and maintain a positive momentum.

Listener Calls and NBA Analysis

Debate on Knicks vs. Pacers and Other Teams

Listeners provide diverse perspectives on the Knicks' chances against teams like the Indiana Pacers, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Boston Celtics.

• Walt Clyde Frazier [12:59]: "The Knicks cannot beat the Pacers. They're not beating, they're not beating the Cavs or the Boston."

• Peter Rosenberg [14:05]: "The Pacers are getting healthy, the Knicks are hurting more and more."

• Walt Clyde Frazier [15:30]: "We had three guys in that game that played 45 or more minutes. We would have beaten Indiana last year full strength."

Alan and Don engage with these calls, challenging the assertions and providing statistical insights, such as the Knicks' high scoring versus the Pacers' defensive struggles:

• Alan Hahn [15:47]: "The Pacers have one of the worst defenses in the NBA. The Knicks are one of the highest scoring teams in the NBA. How is that a good match for your team?"

Special Segment: Celebrating Walt Clyde Frazier's 80th Birthday

Interview and Personal Reflections

A standout moment of the episode is the heartfelt interview with Walt Clyde Frazier, commemorating his 80th birthday. Clyde shares stories from his illustrious career, both as a player and a broadcaster.

• Alan Hahn [26:46]: "So the legend himself joining us right now. Clyde, how you doing?"

• Walt Clyde Frazier [33:07]: "Every game was 18,500 people... these people are crazy up here."

Transition from Player to Broadcaster

Clyde reflects on his transition from a celebrated Knicks player to a beloved broadcaster, highlighting the challenges and triumphs he faced along the way.

• Walt Clyde Frazier [28:18]: "Marty Glickman was the catalyst for my making it being a success at the business. Early on, I had doubts that I could do it."

Memories and Insights on the Knicks' Legacy

Clyde reminisces about his championship with the Knicks and offers insights into the team's current dynamics and future prospects.

• Walt Clyde Frazier [36:52]: "The ceiling. Right now they're probably third best team in Eastern Conference. We don't match up against the Celtics... I like our chances better against Cleveland."

• Alan Hahn [38:14]: "The 36 and 19 that Clyde is referencing is obviously game seven in 1970... What is that like?"

Clyde underscores the importance of team cohesion, health, and strategic play, drawing parallels between past triumphs and current aspirations.

Closing Remarks and Upcoming Segments

As the hour concludes, Don and Alan preview upcoming topics, including Deion Sanders' influence on the Giants and further deep dives into NBA strategies and player performances.

• Alan Hahn [41:14]: "We're gonna have a lot of fun with Clyde... celebrate his Life."

• Don LaGreca [43:02]: "Griffin, this is what we all do. Fatigue is why Julius Randall shoulder popped out, right? Fatigue."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Alan Hahn [03:35]: "You have to go into the playoffs playing your best basketball. Be careful what you wish."

• Don LaGreca [04:43]: "I don't believe that losing is ever okay."

• Walt Clyde Frazier [28:18]: "Marty Glickman was the catalyst for my making it being a success at the business."

• Walt Clyde Frazier [33:07]: "Every game was 18,500 people... these people are crazy up here."

• Alan Hahn [38:14]: "That jump is the hardest one."

Conclusion

"Hour 1: Celebrating Clyde" masterfully balances in-depth sports analysis with personal storytelling, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the New York Knicks' current challenges and the enduring legacy of Walt Clyde Frazier. Whether you're a die-hard Knicks fan or a basketball enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insights and a heartfelt celebration of one of the game's true legends.