Hour 1: Knicks Clinch

Summary

Don, Hahn & Rosenberg Podcast Summary

Episode: Hour 1: Knicks Clinch
Release Date: May 19, 2025
Hosts: Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, Peter Rosenberg
Platform: ESPN New York

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1. Weekend Recap and Personal Updates

The episode begins with Don Hahn sharing personal anecdotes about the recent weekend. He mentions celebrating his mother's birthday in Sussex County, highlighting the pleasant weather with temperatures reaching the mid-80s. Alan Hahn adds excitement about Marco's performance, praising his spirited display despite initially hoping Marco would support their side.

Notable Quote:

• Don Hahn [00:29]: “He lives up in Sussex County, so it was a little chilly but in the mid-80s.”

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2. Knicks' Playoff Victory Highlights

The hosts delve into the Knicks' recent playoff clinch, recounting pivotal moments that led to their success. Don narrates a heartfelt story about his son, Marco, who was undecided between supporting the Mets or Yankees but ultimately showed genuine excitement for the Mets' win. This personal touch underscores the emotional significance of the Knicks' achievement for families and young fans.

Notable Quote:

• Don Hahn [02:38]: “I have the audio version of it. It's more of a visual thing than it is. Go to social media if you follow me on X or Twitter.”

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3. Analyzing the Knicks vs. Celtics Series

The discussion shifts to the Knicks' series against the Celtics, emphasizing the team's resilience and strategic prowess. Alan Hahn highlights the Knicks’ ability to overcome significant deficits, citing a historic 27-point lead at halftime—the largest playoff lead since May 8, 1970. The hosts express admiration for the Knicks' performance, marking it as one of the most satisfying victories at Madison Square Garden in over a quarter-century.

Notable Quotes:

• Alan Hahn [09:32]: “The significance of that date, as we all know, that's the NBA championship Game seven. Willis Reed game just blows your mind.”
• Don Hahn [08:29]: “If you're the Celtics, if the Knicks are off as well, and the Knicks weren't, and then it just got out of hand.”

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4. Upcoming Playoff Series Against the Pacers

Transitioning to future prospects, the hosts anticipate the Knicks' next playoff challenge against the Indiana Pacers. Don Hahn emphasizes the need to elevate their expectations, insisting that the Knicks are now favorites with home-court advantage. He draws parallels to previous playoff runs, suggesting that complacency is not an option.

Notable Quote:

• Don Hahn [10:10]: “I don't want to hear one time during the course of the series, especially if for whatever reason it goes sideways. Well, hey, objective met, we made it to the conference final. That's not on the table anymore, guys.”

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5. In-Depth Analysis of the Pacers

Alan Hahn and Peter Rosenberg provide a comprehensive analysis of the Indiana Pacers, acknowledging their significant improvement since a rocky start earlier in the season. They commend the Pacers' versatile gameplay, strong defense (ranked top five since January), and the impactful presence of Tyrese Halliburton. The discussion underscores the Pacers as a formidable opponent capable of challenging the Knicks on multiple fronts.

Notable Quotes:

• Peter Rosenberg [13:37]: “Sleep on the Pacers the way, let's be honest, for a major part of the season, everyone did. National media did too.”
• Alan Hahn [15:11]: “The city's caught up in this. It really is.”

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6. Knicks' Popularity and Cultural Impact in New York

The conversation broadens to reflect on the enduring popularity of the Knicks within New York City. Don Hahn argues that the Knicks remain the most beloved and relevant team in the city, outshining other franchises like the Nets, Giants, Jets, and Yankees in terms of local support. This segment highlights the Knicks' cultural significance and the passionate fan base that underpins their success.

Notable Quote:

• Don Hahn [16:16]: “The Knicks own the town. And that's no disrespect to the Nets. They have their fans, but Giants, Jets, a lot more... So it's really difficult.”

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7. Strategic Insights for the Playoff Series

Don Hahn offers strategic insights into what the Knicks need to focus on to secure victory against the Pacers. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining momentum, avoiding complacency despite their favorite status, and being wary of the Pacers' ability to mount comebacks. The hosts discuss the necessity for the Knicks to enhance their defensive strategies and capitalize on their offensive strengths.

Notable Quotes:

• Alan Hahn [21:03]: “See, I've been watching the Pacers like Mickey was watching Clubber lang in Rocky 3.”
• Don Hahn [22:08]: “Don't do it ever. And don't just. If you do fall behind by 20, just think that the Pacers are going to let you back in the way the Celtics did.”

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8. Looking Ahead: Emotional and Tactical Preparation

The hosts express enthusiasm for the upcoming series, anticipating it to be a long and intense playoff run. They stress the emotional and tactical preparation required, drawing lessons from the previous series against the Celtics. The emphasis is on sustaining performance, managing stress, and leveraging team strengths to navigate the challenges posed by the Pacers.

Notable Quotes:

• Alan Hahn [23:22]: “I'm absolutely fired up for this series. I really am.”
• Peter Rosenberg [19:06]: “Guys, this is as good a chance at a title as you will get.”

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Conclusion

The episode concludes with a brief mention of transitioning to Mets and Red Sox coverage, signaling a shift in focus after the Knicks' success. The hosts reinforce the significance of the Knicks' achievements and set the stage for upcoming playoff discussions, maintaining an engaging and optimistic tone about the team's prospects.

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Key Takeaways:

• Knicks' Resilience: Demonstrated significant improvement and strategic gameplay against the Celtics, achieving a historic lead and securing their playoff advancement.
• Upcoming Challenge: The Knicks are prepared to face the Indiana Pacers, perceived as a versatile and strong opponent with robust defensive capabilities.
• Cultural Significance: The Knicks hold a central place in New York City's sports culture, maintaining a passionate and loyal fan base.
• Strategic Focus: Emphasis on maintaining momentum, enhancing defensive strategies, and avoiding complacency to navigate the upcoming playoff series successfully.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Don Hahn [00:29]: “He lives up in Sussex County, so it was a little chilly but in the mid-80s.”
• Alan Hahn [09:32]: “The significance of that date, as we all know, that's the NBA championship Game seven. Willis Reed game just blows your mind.”
• Peter Rosenberg [13:37]: “Sleep on the Pacers the way, let's be honest, for a major part of the season, everyone did. National media did too.”
• Don Hahn [22:08]: “Don't do it ever. And don't just. If you do fall behind by 20, just think that the Pacers are going to let you back in the way the Celtics did.”

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This summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights from the "Hour 1: Knicks Clinch" episode of the Don, Hahn & Rosenberg podcast, providing a comprehensive overview for listeners and newcomers alike.

Transcript

[Don Hahn]

This episode is brought to you by State Farm. Knowing you could be saving money for the things you really want is a great feeling.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Talk to a State Farm agent today.

[Don Hahn]

To learn how you can choose to bundle and save with the personal price plan. Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there. Prices are based on rating plans that vary by state. Coverage options are selected by the customer. Availability, amount of discounts and savings and eligibility vary by state. She fell in love with the sex.

[Alan Hahn]

Han Sauce was everywhere.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And Rosenberg, if you want to stay up, he's got the energy that matters. This isn't North Dakota, this is New York.

[Alan Hahn]

This is Don Han and Rosenberg. John Frenchy Fuqua on 8:80 ESPN and the ESPN New York app.

[Don Hahn]

3:00 clock in big city. Don Han, Rosenberg with you until 6, 10. And then it's Mets Red Sox at Fenway.

[Alan Hahn]

610 on the dot.

[Peter Rosenberg]

10.

[Alan Hahn]

10 extra minutes.

[Don Hahn]

Well. Or 50 less minutes.

[Alan Hahn]

Well, I mean, because you think why not just stop at 6?

[Peter Rosenberg]

I thought, I thought it was. I think we were off at 6. They want 10 more minutes.

[Don Hahn]

Well, first 6:05.

[Alan Hahn]

I'm being told.

[Don Hahn]

All right. Well, I was told 6:05.

[Alan Hahn]

I'm confused now. 6:05 is when we go to miss.

[Peter Rosenberg]

It's a lot going on right now.

[Alan Hahn]

We have a five minute break, so just, you know, bring it back.

[Don Hahn]

Six o' clock.

[Alan Hahn]

There you go.

[Don Hahn]

We want them to listen to the breaks. It's how we.

[Alan Hahn]

Oh yeah, is that our breakthrough?

[Don Hahn]

6:10 is when Mets coverage begins.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Oh, got it.

[Alan Hahn]

Listen, there's not enough time today.

[Don Hahn]

Should I rather open and see where 6:05.

[Alan Hahn]

There's not enough time today for everything.

[Peter Rosenberg]

What a weekend.

[Alan Hahn]

Are you kidding me, man? What happened from Friday night all the way through? Sorry. With the weather that we had too, by the way. Throw that in. How much pool time did you get this weekend?

[Don Hahn]

This Saturday it was a little, little chilly. We celebrated my mom's birthday yesterday up on this and he lives up in Sussex county, so it was a little. I don't know if it got to. Not quite the 70 really, but it was, it was deep in the 80s. On Saturday was amazing.

[Alan Hahn]

But a big weekend, by the way, for Marco.

[Don Hahn]

Well, did you see where we were when. Yes, we were by the pool.

[Alan Hahn]

I did notice that and I was very proud of him. Even though again, I was kind of hoping he'd come to our side. But I was very impressed with how he said it with his chest.

[Don Hahn]

Now, in case you missed it, you posted it. Yeah, I was posted. And Alan, but not everybody's on social media. I have it.

[Alan Hahn]

Not everybody.

[Peter Rosenberg]

No. Do I have it? I'll see if I have it.

[Don Hahn]

We have the audio version of it. Well, let me set it up, because what Alan suggested was at some point this weekend with the Mets playing the Yankees, and my son up until this weekend was undecided, Mets or Yankees. And I told him he's gotten till he's eight, which is December 5th of this year. So he's got the whole baseball season to kind of figure this out. But there's only six opportunities in which they play each other unless we're fortunate enough to have them in the World Series. So Allen suggested. He's like, if there's a moment, get it on video. And I'm like, what better moment than the final. What could be the final out on Saturday? And it's Diaz versus Judge.

[Alan Hahn]

Three, two, two outs.

[Don Hahn]

Now, full disclosure. I'm listening on the Alexa, which is. Which is behind. Okay. So I've got my phone and I want. I'm seeing how this is building, and then a light bulb goes off the top of my head and I say, I bet you the app's ahead. So I check the app and I see that judge struck out. And I don't tell him. And I'm like, all right, so I can get the video here. It's a couple of pitches behind, three, two pitch. And he's listening intently to the game on what's going on. And then I videotape the strikeout, and that's a genuine reaction. That didn't sound like somebody that was upset. The judge was struck out. Now, I still think he likes the Yankees, but that was a Met moment. And we'll see if it builds off from there. And he stayed up for the Volpe strikeout in the seventh with the basis load when Volpe big moment 3.

[Alan Hahn]

0.

[Don Hahn]

And the fought back strikeout. And then I said, you got to get to bed because it was late at that point anyway. But then I told him what happened, showed him the bell.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And then he said. And then he said, alan Hahn says he doesn't have bedtime in his house.

[Don Hahn]

Dad. I know. I'm not saying that. I still don't understand.

[Alan Hahn]

Can't wait.

[Don Hahn]

So do we have. We have the audio of.

[Peter Rosenberg]

We're working on it. We're efforting. We're still.

[Don Hahn]

It's more of a visual thing than it is. It's.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But you can still hear it.

[Don Hahn]

Go to social media if you follow me on X or Twitter. And that's the reaction where he was all fired Up.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Well, listen, holding a baseball, right?

[Alan Hahn]

I'm done. I was very proud. I loved it. I got a little misty because, again, like, I see Zach, you know, I'm like, oh, man, when he was that age, that was. That's the sweet spot. And so to see that reaction, that. It was very organic, it was very genuine. The, like, the quick expression when it was a strikeout with. Oh, man, that was so cool to see.

[Don Hahn]

I sent it to Howie Rose.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Was he happy?

[Don Hahn]

He just loves it.

[Peter Rosenberg]

You sent it to Michael or you.

[Don Hahn]

Got sent it to Michael? He said that I've basically set my son up for pain for the rest of his life.

[Peter Rosenberg]

He's not wrong. Will he still accept Marco if he changes his mind?

[Don Hahn]

But I. But. Well, like I said, he can swing back and forth until he's 8, and then we'll see. But again, I'm not forcing any of this. I want it to be genuine. I do. I think the only way it sticks. If it's genuine.

[Peter Rosenberg]

That's right. I mean, look. Look at the case of me and the Celtics. It was completely genuine. It's still barely sticking now. Now, real quick, there is a lot that happened this weekend. The Subway series almost was, but. But wasn't. But Friday, on our way out of here, I don't know if you guys remember this, we had a back and forth about how that game could go between the Knicks and the Celtics.

[Don Hahn]

Yep.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And I didn't think it would happen, but I said there is a possibility that because they're down Tatum, because they won the title last year, because they're already down 3:1. If they get down big, there's a chance the Knicks can take their heart and run them out of the building. I never thought it would have been that bad, though, to get up to over 40 points. To see the Celtics completely break like that was that surprised even me.

[Alan Hahn]

Jaylen Brown quit. Fouled foul. Got himself fouled out in the third quarter.

[Don Hahn]

They find out he's got a meniscus, Right?

[Alan Hahn]

Yeah. He's playing through it.

[Don Hahn]

Yeah.

[Alan Hahn]

And Joe Missoula waved the white flag with three minutes to go in the. In the third quarter. In the third quarter, waved the white.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Flag, but it was so.

[Don Hahn]

And then.

[Alan Hahn]

And then you have the contrast of the Celtics giving up, putting their entire bench in the game. And Tom Thibodeau looked miserable in that. Like, in the fourth quarter, he looked absolutely miserable. Because every time a Celtic. No, you know, you don't know who the guy is. Hit a three, you could just see his face. Just having more and more of a hard time accepting the fact that like, like I had somebody at MSG Network say to me, we were watching the game together. He goes, do you realize if they hit 10 consecutive threes, the Knicks would still be up by 10?

[Peter Rosenberg]

That's the thing. It's like this game's over and no.

[Alan Hahn]

One, it was as if no one could believe it. I had people saying to me as I was in the, again in the tunnel and they're just yelling like, alan, is this real? Is this really happening? Because how many times we had the caller who wanted a blowout, I want to put my feet up. We told him, no, don't, don't start doing that. He wanted so bad to just put his feet up, sit back and have. That's one of the most satisfying wins the Knicks have had at Madison Square Garden in well over a quarter century.

[Don Hahn]

But listen, clearly they gave up and I'm not going to defend ever giving up. But when you're a one trick pony and the one trick's not working, what do you want them to pivot to? What exactly are they supposed to do? They heave threes. If they're not falling, they can't all of a sudden become a different team. Clearly that was made clear all year. You made it very clear throughout the whole process here. They're not the best three point shooting team. They might score the most because they heave the most threes. That's all they know and that's how this whole series was, is that they weren't hitting their threes. They were going to lose. If they were hitting their threes, they were going to win. And it was very clear early on that was not going to happen. So the only hope you have if you're the Celtics, if the Knicks are off as well, and the Knicks weren't, and then it just got out of hand.

[Alan Hahn]

That's as on as they were. That was the full complete, 48 minute game they kept talking about. They've been chasing almost all year. And that also might have been the moment where as you watch them that you realize, you know what, when they play like this, they're a tough team to be like they legit have championship ability in what they showed you in that game. Because you can't tell me that Boston didn't go into the game and say, we're going to give us all we got. And that was 26, 20 after, after one quarter, it wasn't out of the gate, a blowout that came. The Knicks were back and forth. That was A back and forth kind of game. Boston wasn't going anywhere. But that second quarter was one of the great quarters that I think this generation of Nick fans have ever seen. Just for everything that you had to consider where it was. And then the fact they were up by 27 at the half, the largest playoff lead at halftime they've had since May 8, 1970.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Insane, just insane.

[Alan Hahn]

The significance of that date, as we all know, that's the NBA championship Game seven. Willis Reed game just blows your mind. No, it is crazy that that hit that number. So it was an incredibly satisfying night at the Garden and now sets up, which I think is what we talked about, getting now into this conference finals with the Pacers as the second highest odds to win the championship. The expectations now completely change. Go through the roof. And it'll be really fun to see how this series.

[Don Hahn]

I don't want to hear one time during the course of the series, especially if for whatever reason it goes sideways. Well, hey, objective met, we made it to the conference final. That's not on the table anymore, guys. It's not. You're the favorite. You've got home court in the conference final destination championship round. Now you want to, you want to change expectations. If it's okc, absolutely. You know, because I think OKC right now is the favorite to win the whole thing by a mile. They will have home court and we'll see how that goes. But right now the focus has to be on the Pacers. But I don't want to hear anybody say, oh, wait a minute, Don, we only, we were just wanted to go to the conference final. You have to change expectations. And I, and I do think this is going to be a unique challenge because I hearkened back a couple of years ago to when the Miami Heat were their second round matchup and the feeling was, well, we're better than the Heat. We're going to the conference final. That didn't happen. Now, that Heat team had been to a final, well coached. Not to say the Pacers aren't. I'm not saying the Pacers are that Heat team from a couple of years ago, but what the Pacers are is a much more versatile team. They're not a one hit wonder, they're not as good as the Celtics, but they can beat you in different ways. They've got a guy that can get under your skin in Halliburton and it's, it should be a very interesting series. Anybody that sleeps on the Pacers, I think that would be a huge, huge mistake. But at the same time, own the fact that you are the favorite with home court advantage or game fields.

[Alan Hahn]

That's right.

[Don Hahn]

So go out there and take care of business. But make sure you take this team seriously, which I'm sure the Knicks will.

[Alan Hahn]

One thing I'll tell you is they will take them seriously. It's not like one of these things where the Knicks now are going to cruise. No, here's the million reasons why they're going to take him seriously. And Jalen Brunson said it, they lost to this team last year in the playoffs. That's very fresh. They lost a game seven at home when they got all banged up and they had nobody left. They were leaking oil by the end of that series and they were. They were so close. They had an early command of the series. They feel they're the better team. They took two out of three against them this season. So this is to me, almost the better matchup. Because it's you. You want their attention. Oh, you got their attention. This, this Nick team will not be looking at the Pacers and feel like we're better than them or any of that stuff. This is personal. Listen to what Brunson said.

[Don Hahn]

I mean, it still kind of bothers me.

[Alan Hahn]

I feel like once you get into.

[Don Hahn]

The season, you start thinking about the.

[Alan Hahn]

Next game and everything like that. Obviously it was a missed opportunity last year playing at home in Game 7 7, regardless of who we had out there.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Don't really know like a timetable, but.

[Don Hahn]

I mean, it definitely hurt.

[Alan Hahn]

I'm telling you that this is. This has the makings of a true rivalry series that I promise you. Officiating will be debated and argued. There'll be moments where one team is either celebrating or being quote unquote, disrespectful. There's going to be all that and more going on the back and forth in the media. This is a made for tv, made for a major market kind of series. It's the perfect matchup. If you are into this kind of drama, it's perfect.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And if you continue to sleep on the Pacers the way, let's be honest, for a major part of the season, everyone did. National media did too. They became early on people decided this Pacers team wasn't last year's Pacer team.

[Alan Hahn]

Terrible start.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Terrible start.

[Alan Hahn]

And was bad early.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I believe it was January.

[Alan Hahn]

Correct.

[Peter Rosenberg]

They went crazy in January. And then if he's really paid attention, like, oh, this is becoming the Pacers team from last year.

[Alan Hahn]

Top five in the NBA record wise and defense wise.

[Don Hahn]

By the Way.

[Peter Rosenberg]

So this.

[Don Hahn]

No, it's.

[Peter Rosenberg]

It's the perfect setup. Halliburton is the perfect foil.

[Alan Hahn]

Yep.

[Peter Rosenberg]

There couldn't. I mean, listen. Literally, to the point that I'm sure, as everybody knows now, WWE literally has done stuff with Halliburton and Brunson at the Garden. At the Garden, I was there for. And they're. They're both. You know, they're both built for this. They get it. And Halliburton is as real a heel as you have in the NBA.

[Alan Hahn]

Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And can I just. You know what I'm excited about? Here's what I'm really excited about. For most young people, the Celtics hatred is forced. It's a little bit of a carryover from the Red Sox. So it's like we hate Boston.

[Alan Hahn]

Just Boston. Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

This Pacers thing, real. This taps into every youngish Knicks fan's real origin story with basketball. You hate Reggie Miller. You hate this team. You hate the color of their jersey. You hate all of it. It is also real. So I am so excited not to only not have to deal with it, because I'm excited to be able to just kind of pull for the Knicks now. Just to see this story play out is going to be an incredible bit of entertainment over the next couple of weeks. And don't expect a short series.

[Alan Hahn]

The city's caught up in this. It really is. Carl Anthony Towns last night at Yankee Stadium. Got a standing ovation.

[Don Hahn]

Yeah.

[Alan Hahn]

Large, loud reaction to him being in the building, which is good to see. But just walking around Manhattan today, I mean, I've been in the city all day. It's. It's in places that you normally don't see sports references. I was in Soho before. Just. I mean, you can get a bracelet made at some jewelry place, and it's telling you make your Knicks bracelet here. And they have pictures of James Brunson. I'm like this. What do you know from Jalen Brunson?

[Don Hahn]

Well, this is what we talked about.

[Alan Hahn]

Everybody's into it.

[Don Hahn]

This is what we talked about forever with the Knicks. And it started with who's more beloved in the city, Judge or Brunson. And we always have these conversations about who is the most popular team, most relevant team. We always circle back to the fact that the Knicks own the town. And that's no disrespect to the Nets. All right? They have their fans, but Giants, Jets, a lot more. Even Mets, Yankees a lot more. Even hockey's hockey. So it's really difficult. As much as to my chagrin, it's Ever going to captivate the town. We saw it in 94 with the Rangers.

[Alan Hahn]

I think the Rangers.

[Don Hahn]

I think the Rangers have to be the team that's going to go a.

[Alan Hahn]

Couple years ago.

[Don Hahn]

In 14. Yeah, it was, it was a big deal. But they've won Fairly. That was 20 years since they won. Now it's over 30. But it's the combination of. There really isn't any pushback from another fan base in the city and they haven't won since 1973. So there's always. When a Giants make a run, it's always going to be. There's jet fans that don't care. And the same in baseball. The Yankees, Mets make a run, there's half the town or whatever, 40% of it's the Mets. To say now, you know, I'm just not interested. If you're a basketball fan, you're interested because it's the Knicks.

[Alan Hahn]

I think now even if you're just a sports fan in New York.

[Don Hahn]

Oh yeah. Because if you're not a general basketball fan, but you're going to get caught up in the whole geography of it. And the only people probably rooting against the Knicks are net fans and sorry, just not enough of you to be able to move the needle. So this is kind of a perfect storm and it's also pretty legit chance here.

[Alan Hahn]

Second highest odds.

[Don Hahn]

And it's not a miracle run. They were a three seed in the Eastern Conference, so and now the reason.

[Alan Hahn]

And they knocked out the two seed. It's not like they had an easy road. They had to knock out the two.

[Don Hahn]

Seed and the one seed's not waiting for them. It's gonna be pretty cool. It's gonna be a lot of fun.

[Alan Hahn]

This is what we were looking for, right? Like this is what we wanted to see when they made all these moves. How fast can they get? Can they advance the cause? And the whole season has sort of been that trying to just get better and find their game. And they had to get challenged by the Pistons. They stole two games in Boston that flipped that series. And then once they grabbed it, they never let go. Even though the Game 3 loss felt predictable, the Game 5 loss, that felt predictable as well. It was one of those that, you know they're going to respond. They're the defending champs. But each time this team responded again. And that I think tells you a lot. Look, the teams left. The Thunder are a juggernaut, absolute juggernaut. What you saw them do in last yesterday and that game seven was insane. Scary team. But that Matchup with Minnesota, that's a good matchup. Minnesota has been like the Pacers slow start, but in the second half of the season they've been one of the best teams in the league and also playing some of the best defense in the league. The Knicks are different from all three is that they sort of are the team that just has a lot of talent but never played consistent enough for it to be more than, hey, 51 is still a lot of wins, but not nearly as good as they should have been. Something along the way. Since the start of the playoffs, this team is starting, I think, to figure out their identity.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Do you remember? I'm sorry, I don't want to be a cornball and be Mr. I said this and I said no one cares what we all say. We say so many things every day. But I know that we've talked about this many times late in the season when we were speculating on what it could be because every day we did the show, every 90% of Knicks fans were angry and disappointed. And then we said, we're like, Alan. We were like, how can you judge what this team is? We have not seen them together yet. We have to unfortunately wait until the playoffs and see what a fully healthy version of this Knicks look like. Have they looked perfect in every step? No, of course not. The first 75% of Games 1 and 2 against the Celtics are great examples. But when push comes to shove, they're good enough and gritty enough and have this heart and an incredibly clutch superstar leader that. Guys, this is as good a chance at a title as you will get. It is sitting there for you. You've taken out the most accomplished and in my opinion, most dangerous team in the bracket you took out. So go win the whole thing.

[Alan Hahn]

Yep.

[Don Hahn]

All right, I'm now going to. I'm going to go there. 1-800-919-3776. They're going to have to play better against the Pacers than they played against the Celtics because there were, let's be honest, guys, let's not get all high on the Knicks. The Celtics had a lot to do with the Knicks winning that series. Yeah, they blew two 20 point leads. Give the Knicks credit. They hung around, you know, a team that tapped out in game six because their threes weren't falling. The Pacers are not as good a team. But I think you're going to have to play better. I think there's more this Nick team is going to need to give if they're going to beat the Indiana Pacers. Be very careful of this team and do not take away from the fact that the Celtics, I'm sorry, just did contribute to their own demise.

[Alan Hahn]

Don't be sorry. That's what happened. But here's the thing. What the Knicks have to watch for in this Pacer series. See, I've been watching the Pacers like Mickey was watching Clubber lang in Rocky 3. You remember that, right?

[Don Hahn]

I remember.

[Alan Hahn]

Right, right. Rocky. Rocky's beating tomato cans. He's just defending his title, and he's.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Just sitting there watching, going, oh, God, you can't win, Rock.

[Alan Hahn]

Right. Gonna kill you to death inside of three rounds. So I've been watching them, and I've been seeing this team that they look like when you let them get up and down, they're kind of scary. But I've also seen them go down by double digits. They've almost done what the Knicks do in that they could be down 18, and in a blink, they're back. That's why they're scary. So what the Knicks need to do is learn from the Celtics series. Not to say go down 20 and come back, but don't go up 20 and let them go.

[Don Hahn]

Exactly.

[Alan Hahn]

Because they can. Don't take your foot off the gas.

[Don Hahn]

Don't do it ever. And don't just. If you do fall behind by 20, just think that the Pacers are going to let you back in the way the Celtics did.

[Alan Hahn]

They're going to run it up.

[Don Hahn]

I don't see an arrogance, an entire sense of entitlement that the Celtics seem to play with. I mean, maybe they didn't take the Knicks seriously or whatever, or they just have a bad strategy, or maybe. Maybe it just comes down to they didn't hit their threes.

[Alan Hahn]

But, you know, I just missed 180 threes.

[Don Hahn]

It's. It's. It's ridiculous.

[Alan Hahn]

That's an average of 30 missed threes per game.

[Don Hahn]

And I don't want to hear about the Porzingis. I don't want to hear about the Tatum injuries are going to happen, okay? It happened to the Knicks last year. Otherwise, they probably beat the Pacers and they go on to the conference final against Boston. These things happen. You have to apologize for it. But I still think the. The Knicks are going to have to continue this. Man, this is no layup. This isn't. Okay, now we get the junior varsity after beating the varsity. No, no, no. Who cares about seeding? Doesn't matter. It's all about how you played in the last two rounds. You think the Knicks feel like they're a three seed. They got to feel like they're the best team in the conference and Vegas has them as the best team in the conference. They took care of business. But you know what? Indiana took care of business too. And the Knicks also have to play better at home. It has not been an automatic at Madison Square Garden. Pacers are only looking for the split, you know, so there's just a lot. And I believe they will be. I believe they're going to be fully engaged and it's not going to be a concern, just an observation. I think they're going to have to play better than that.

[Alan Hahn]

I'm absolutely fired up for this series. I really am. Like, I'm looking forward to this series so much because again, the first round series was one of those. God, just get, you know, get through it. Don't get anybody injured. Like you're going through all the things that you don't want to see. The checklist of. Don't let this happen. Boston was. God, can they get a game? You know, Boston just outplayed them all season. Can they just get a game? Can they make it a series? This. Nah, this is. This should be a lot of fun. This should be a lot of fun. And even if it's split the first two, it doesn't mean you can't split on the road. I. This is going the distance, boys. Buckle up. This is going seven.

[Don Hahn]

Oh, God, can they take it, Nick fan, take it.

[Peter Rosenberg]

You know what, though? I disagree. I'm not just being that guy. Nixon six.

[Don Hahn]

Well, I mean it's not. Six is.

[Alan Hahn]

A reach.

[Peter Rosenberg]

By the way, I was gonna say.

[Don Hahn]

Well, I thought he was gonna say 4.

[Alan Hahn]

I was thinking like you on 5 sweep.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I'm not an animal. But there, but let's be honest, there is a real big. Isn't it funny? It's not a huge difference, but it's a huge difference.

[Alan Hahn]

Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Nixon 6 could mean you handle your business that it's not really ever a scary series. Seven. No matter how you get to seven, it's a nightmare.

[Alan Hahn]

Keep in mind last year the knicks were up 2, 0.

[Don Hahn]

Yeah.

[Alan Hahn]

And then OG Anunoby got hurt in that game two. Didn't see him till game seven. And he was useless in game seven because the hamstring was completely gone. Game three, they were seconds away from going up three. Oh, and once you go up three. Oh, we all know over ding dong. So that's what last year was like. And so what happens this year, it's going to be. I'm telling you, I'M so excited for this series.

[Don Hahn]

We didn't get a chance to talk because that happened on Friday, but I know you know, big weekend, great job by Ty Butler and Dan Grassa and everybody that did shows over the weekend, but it was our first chance to talk about it.

[Peter Rosenberg]

This is an ad by BetterHelp for Mental Health Awareness Month. Better Help surveyed 1600 people people across 23 countries for its first ever State of Stigma report and found that while 75% of people believe it's wise to seek support, only 27% of Americans are in therapy. When people hesitate to get help, it doesn't just affect them, it impacts families, workplaces and entire communities. Let's encourage everyone to take care of their well being and break the stigma. The world is better when people are healthy and happy. With over 35,000 therapists, BetterHelp is the world's largest online therapy platform, having served over 5 million people globally. It's convenient too. You can join a session with the click of a button, helping you fit therapy into your busy life, plus switch therapists at any time. We're all better with help. 72% of better help members report a reduction in symptoms. Visit betterhelp.com timeout to get 10% off your first month of therapy. That's betterhelp.com timeout.

[Alan Hahn]

This episode is brought.

[Don Hahn]

To you by Amazon Prime. From streaming to shopping, prime helps you get more out of your passions. So whether you're a fan of true crime or prefer a nail biting novel from time to time with services like.

[Alan Hahn]

Prime Video, Amazon Music and fast free.

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Delivery, prime makes it easy to get.

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More out of whatever you're into or getting into.

[Don Hahn]

Visit Amazon.comprime to learn more. Kick off summer with Memorial Day Savings.

[Peter Rosenberg]

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[Alan Hahn]

Selection varies by location While supplies/seelows.com for more details. Thanks for listening to the Don Hahn and Rosenberg podcast.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I didn't listen to anything you just said.

[Alan Hahn]

Catch the show on demand whenever you want. Just subscribe to us wherever you get your podcasts.

[Don Hahn]

Knick fans joined Bart and Carlin this Wednesday for a Game One Eastern Conference Finals viewing party at Tommy's Tavern and Tap in Clifton, New Jersey, hang with the guys for the game and enjoy drink specials and giveaways. It all tips off at 7:30 and goes until the final shot. That's this Wednesday at Tommy's Tavern and tap in Clifton, New Jersey with Bart Scott and Chris Carlin brought to you by Miller Life.

[Alan Hahn]

God bless Chris Carlin. I was listening today, coming home from get up.

[Don Hahn]

Yeah.

[Alan Hahn]

And Bart was talking him into a pretzel about something. He was referencing Pritchard, Peyton Pritchard. But I think he was trying to tell him about T.J. mcConnell, you know, cuz he just kept saying, you know, the white guy. No, the other white guy. You know, there's only. You're only allowed to have a few. Carlin at one point, finally just, you heard him exasperated, like, I don't know, I don't know what you're saying, but. And so I just texted him and I said, I feel your pain.

[Don Hahn]

That sounds like a fun. Listen. 1-800-919-3776.

[Alan Hahn]

It was, it was wild.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Who did you. Did he ever figure out who they're talking about?

[Alan Hahn]

Yeah, he was talking about T.J. mcConnell.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Oh, McConnell.

[Alan Hahn]

But he kept saying who they played and Carlin's like, who's that? Like, it just, it was Chris, you.

[Don Hahn]

Know, but you would, you wouldn't let that happen, right?

[Peter Rosenberg]

Okay.

[Alan Hahn]

I mean, over time, listen, there were things there, there were, there were things that you just kind of like, let it go, move on, just keep it rolling. Chris just kept trying to figure it out. I just, that's why I said I.

[Don Hahn]

Used to listen to him and Bart, Peter, like genuinely wondering the next thing out of Alan's mouth is actually his career is up for grabs depending on how he answers. And he always came through.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And he's still here.

[Don Hahn]

He shouldn't have had to been, you know, walk that plank every day.

[Peter Rosenberg]

No, but look at him. But look at him.

[Alan Hahn]

He's still here. I always felt like I was like one, one, One word from hr.

[Peter Rosenberg]

No, you will.

[Alan Hahn]

Someone was getting called, but you know, we move on. But it was just hysterical today. Hysterical.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Let's talk to these people.

[Don Hahn]

Jimmy in Connecticut, you get us started off here on Don Hanna. Rosenberg. Let's go.

[Alan Hahn]

Next baby. You know, I was born, I was.

[Don Hahn]

Born in September of 94. So the early days of my fandom were the dark days because I was too young to remember the late 90s. And it just feels really, it's special to be here. But like you said, it's hard not to recalibrate your expectations now. When you see a performance like what you saw on Friday night, you start to believe that anything is possible. And I think Nick fans should believe that. Now, you touched on it being probably a long series with Indiana. I agree. I think it's going to be a long series. But I'm in a little bit of.

[Peter Rosenberg]

A weird spot here and I'm hoping.

[Don Hahn]

It'S four, five or seven games because.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Game six will be the night of my wedding.

[Don Hahn]

So I can't be a jerk and.

[Alan Hahn]

I can't be checking.

[Don Hahn]

I can't be checking.

[Alan Hahn]

Wait a second.

[Don Hahn]

It's a tough.

[Alan Hahn]

Actually, it's a tough spot to be in. No, no, no, hang on. What time is the wedding?

[Don Hahn]

My wedding will begin at 6 o' clock and end at 10.

[Alan Hahn]

You're good, you're good. The game's with. The game's 8 o' clock by the time you get to the reception and everybody's boozing it up, having a good time. You know, that'll actually add to the fun that there'll be people with phones out watching the game and you'll be in.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I would even go a step further.

[Don Hahn]

Well, too well. To two of my buddies in my wedding party, two of my groomsmen are big Knicks fans.

[Peter Rosenberg]

What kind of venue is it?

[Don Hahn]

It's a beach pavilion. Enclosed pavilion right on the beach in Connecticut.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And you love your. You love your wife and she loves you, correct?

[Alan Hahn]

I do.

[Don Hahn]

And that's why I have to kind of be present for everybody.

[Alan Hahn]

No, you said that.

[Don Hahn]

You said you set the tone on your wedding day.

[Peter Rosenberg]

This is important. You're damn right you set the tone. And so here's the thing. If this is a big deal to you and your. And your friends and your family, it's a New York wedding. The game starts at eight. Your ceremonies at what time? Six o' clock?

[Alan Hahn]

Is it six?

[Peter Rosenberg]

You're telling me at the second. You're telling me when we get to 9:30, like second half of the game starts, things are winding up. Your bartender can't have a tea. It'll make it memorable and iconic.

[Alan Hahn]

Never. I mean, obviously your wedding night, you'll remember it forever. But this just adds to it.

[Don Hahn]

Does it? I mean, is your wife a fan? I know, I know. She's not a big basketball fan. That's the problem. You got to be careful here, man, because it's her day, too. Does she want her day to have half the people gathered around a bar watching a game or out in the street listening to the game?

[Alan Hahn]

I gotta be honest with you, dude. I Barely saw Stephanie once after. After the ceremony.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah.

[Alan Hahn]

Barely saw.

[Don Hahn]

I know you're a big fan. If you want this to work and you want to set a tone.

[Alan Hahn]

I don't know, Jim.

[Don Hahn]

You just gotta let it go, man.

[Alan Hahn]

I think you gotta put your foot down.

[Don Hahn]

How many times you have married Jimmy? I have never been there. All right, well, screw this up because there will be others if you don't listen to me. I'm telling you, these guys are all caught up in it. There is somebody. It's a bigger day for her than you. Let's just be honest. It's a bigger day for her. I've gotten the speech from my mother. Believe me, I get it. Ask her. Run everything by her. Peter's making about. You can get the.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Did you run up. Did you ask, though? Did you even. Did you even mention it to her?

[Don Hahn]

But mention it? Yes, I. Yes.

[Alan Hahn]

Yes, I did.

[Don Hahn]

Because that was ruined. That would.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Oh, all right. Well, now the problem is you're marrying the wrong person.

[Don Hahn]

No, I'm not going to go there.

[Alan Hahn]

Hey, Peter, come on.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Trust me, I know.

[Don Hahn]

Trust me, I know.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Trust me, I know.

[Don Hahn]

I. The funny thing in. Jimmy.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I'm kidding. I'm kidding, buddy.

[Don Hahn]

I've told the story. Just messing with the LJ shot against the Pacers, right, was Jerry Reco's wedding, right? We were listening to it in the parking lot, you know, but you don't want to have it up at the bar or make it part of the wedding. And then her memory is going to be all these people gathered around like some classic game. And it's not about her. The attention's not on her. And you've got to get everybody's attention away from the tv. It'd be a huge mistake.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Okay, but just hear me out. If it's a six to ten wedding.

[Alan Hahn]

Exactly eight o' clock tip, or at.

[Peter Rosenberg]

The very least, she should agree. Hey, babe, is it okay wherever they're having the after party, is it okay that in the after party we watched the fourth quarter. I mean, compromise. You don't want to have any compromise out of the gate. You just want to be a.

[Don Hahn]

It's her day, man.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But it's.

[Don Hahn]

It's. It's.

[Peter Rosenberg]

It's a. It's.

[Don Hahn]

And she said she's not on board, so what do you gave him?

[Alan Hahn]

Mess.

[Don Hahn]

Why would you. She said she's not on board. That means it's out. You can't stop people from leaving and going to their cars and listening or looking at their phones. You can't do that. But it. But if you incorporate the game into the wedding when she said she's not on board.

[Alan Hahn]

So here's all he has to do. His boys will keep him updated. He has to go straight and narrow, but his boys will keep him updated. And if it's close in the fourth quarter, that late, we're talking it's going to be like almost 10:30 by then. Ceremony's over, reception's over. We're done. Now it's like, all right, babe, gonna catch this fourth quarter, then me and you're gonna get down. That's it.

[Don Hahn]

If she was a fan, then I could see. Well, that's easy, working it out. But the fact that she's not in on it. You gotta be careful, man. I'm just saying, I mean, we've all been married. You know how important it is. It's important for both people in the couple, but it's really. It's her day.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I don't know, but I don't know if anyone's gathered this from listening to the show. And listen, take whatever arrows you want at me.

[Don Hahn]

I get it.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I already failed marriage once. Blah, blah, blah, same. Don's not exactly a rock the boat kind of husband. I don't know if any. I mean, so there are different ways to go.

[Don Hahn]

Rock the boat. But not the wedding day.

[Peter Rosenberg]

It's her day after party. Don, the bar, everyone just drinking.

[Alan Hahn]

Anyway, Don's like, don't rock the boat. Don't even. Yeah, you're trying to.

[Don Hahn]

You're trying to destroy the boat.

[Alan Hahn]

You're trying to destroy the dock. Like, never mind. Get on the boat. He's not even on the boat yet. I get it.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Let your boy conversation. I'm so Jimmy, by the way, I'm joking about your wife. I'm sure she's amazing, but that's a great conversation. Thank you, buddy.

[Alan Hahn]

What a way to start. What a way to start.

[Don Hahn]

Ryan in New Jersey. You're on espn New York. What's up, man? Hey, what's going on? I remember you, Alan.

[Alan Hahn]

What's up, Brian?

[D]

I'm all right. You know, big pacer fan since 93.

[Alan Hahn]

You know, grew up in New Jersey. All my friends and family are Knicks fans.

[D]

I spoke to Han a couple months ago. He said make sure you call back.

[Alan Hahn]

Yep. I. I want to congratulate you because I didn't think you guys were going.

[Peter Rosenberg]

To make it there.

[D]

I didn't even know if the Pacers.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Were going to make it.

[D]

I was hoping for another Knicks Pacers finals. Like, that is what I live for when it comes to basketball. And I'm just so happy, but I don't appreciate the hate from the Knicks fans. Still sleeping on my Pacers, you know.

[Don Hahn]

Like, during the year, we had a.

[D]

Slow start, yet still explosive offensively, but we played no defense. And Halliburton was not a closer. I smoked these things into existence. And since January, I don't know if.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Carlisle listens to me, but he's been doing it. He's been closing, and we've been playing defense.

[D]

Top 10 defense since January.

[Alan Hahn]

Don't be a good one.

[Don Hahn]

And that. And that's kind of what scares me, because even though I think what. The Pacers finished 10th, defensively, they played much better down the stretch. Like, they were really good defensive.

[Alan Hahn]

Second half, they were one of the best in the league.

[Don Hahn]

And that gave the Knicks a lot of problems. So that's why I think the Pacers aren't as good as the Celtics, but I think they could be. They could create more problems for the Knicks.

[Alan Hahn]

They're dangerous because they don't only rely on the three. Their transition game is insane. Like, it's fast. They score super fast. So they have that. They have good defense, they got good defenders, and they've got three guys. They can throw at Brunson and beat the hell out of them. And so that's also something. You remember that series last year, I'll never forget, like, how they were just sending different guys at Brunson. They were trying to beat him up. And Brunson, you know, because he's. This is who he is, tough as nails, fought through it all. Look, this is. Again, this is going to be a really, really emotional, physical, and just dynamic series. Gonna be great.

[Don Hahn]

It's gonna be so much fun. And also, they're kind of similar in the sense that when you look at the history of the two franchises, certainly recent history, you know, good teams, a lot of playoff history. No. No rings.

[Alan Hahn]

Yeah.

[Don Hahn]

This would be the fourth time they're meeting in the conference final. The previous three times, the winner didn't win the championship, they ended up losing in the final. So there's a lot going on. I think both. I don't think Pacer fans are looking at this as being an easy path, but I'm sure they're happy. Not. They're not playing, you know, what, you know, Cleveland or. Or, well, be Cleveland, but, you know, be facing Boston. I think, you know, they're looking at work, taking on a nick team that we were able to beat last year. And we'll see if everybody's able to stay healthy. That's the thing you hope for, is that these guys can go battle, be healthy and let the best team win. 1-800-919-3776 more your calls will pivot to Mets, Yankees and at some point during the course of the show as well, we're taking up until 605. At that point, we're going to begin coverage of the Mets and the Red Sox from Fenway Park. But Alan Bathe.

[Alan Hahn]

Yes. I got to tell you, well, I'm a little sweaty today. It's a warm day. Alan on here to tell you about my friends, of course, at Bath Fitter. As I've been telling you, they remodeled the bath in our house and my wife Stephanie is so excited about this. We updated a bath by our pool, converted a tub into a shower so we can use it for the summer guests when they come into the pool. You want to wash off all that chlorine and everything right? When the kids have sleepovers. It's the perfect spot downstairs. This is a game changer for us and a Bath Fitter consultant took us through a process with their free in home consultation to pick out the style and color as well as all the specifics and accessories to update our bath. Customized just the way Stephanie wanted it, Bath Fitter worked fast, delivered the highest quality work without delay. Bathfitter is a permanent solution. A one piece seamless wall for a watertight fit and a lifetime guarantee. You can trust the Bathfitter team like we did. They've been in business for 40 years with millions of happy customers. Right now, listen to this. You can save up to $500, so start designing your bath like we did. Visit bathfitter.com for more details. There is only one bath fitter.

[Don Hahn]

This episode is brought to you by Chevy Silverado. When it's time for you to ditch the blacktop and head off road, do it in a truck that says no to nothing. The Chevy Silverado Trail Boss.

[Peter Rosenberg]

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[Don Hahn]

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[Alan Hahn]

I've been ready for summer for a.

[Peter Rosenberg]

While and now it's finally time for summer outfits. With a trip coming up, the A.

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[Don Hahn]

I wear Abercrombie denim year round.

[Alan Hahn]

Their shorts are no different and have the comfort I need for summer Prep.

[Peter Rosenberg]

For your next trip with the A.

[Alan Hahn]

And F Vacation Shop, get their newest arrivals in store online, online and in the app.

[Don Hahn]

Hey there travelers. Kaley Cuoco here.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Sorry to interrupt your music great artist.

[Don Hahn]

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[Alan Hahn]

Thanks for listening to the Don Hahn and Rosenberg Podcast.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I didn't listen to anything you just said.

[Alan Hahn]

Catch this show on demand whenever you want. Just subscribe to us wherever you get your podcasts.

[Don Hahn]

Fanatics Fest is returning to New York City this summer at the Javits center on Friday, June 20 through Sunday, June 22. Second a three day celebration where sports culture and collecting converge, bringing fans closer to their favorite athletes in sports leagues than ever before. With appearances from your favorite athletes, celebrities and entertainers, live podcasts and a full schedule of panel panels featuring the most recognizable names in sports. You can enter to win a four pack of tickets on the ESPN New York app, find the contest tile and submit your entry. Adult and kid tickets are available now at Fanatics Festival. Don Han and Rosenberg talking Knicks we'll have Mets and Yankees as there's a Soto thing that's kind of irritating.

[Alan Hahn]

Irritating.

[Don Hahn]

But we'll get into it. We'll get into it at the top. But there's still plenty of people want to talk about what we saw take place on Friday and you know, carries over into Game 1 on Wednesday. And of course we're all over it here on ESPN New York. Let's go to Eli in Rockland County. You're on ESPN New York. What's up Eli? And we lost Eli. Hopefully he's still with us on this planet. Erica on Long island, how are you doing? I'm good.

[D]

How are you?

[Don Hahn]

Terrific.

[D]

This is my third time calling and funny enough, the very first time I called you guys, me and you got into a fight, Don, over who Knicks fans hate more, Michael Jordan or Reggie Miller. And I said Reggie Miller.

[Alan Hahn]

You said Michael Jordan.

[D]

Yes, it was one of his top five. The worst New York enemies of our sport. Michael Jordan.

[Alan Hahn]

But, but hate.

[Don Hahn]

I think they showed appreciation.

[D]

Everybody's Reggie Miller.

[Alan Hahn]

Oh, yeah.

[D]

Come on.

[Alan Hahn]

I'm with her.

[D]

I hate Reggie Miller. Like Michael Jordan, I've grown to respect and fine, you kicked everybody's butts.

[Alan Hahn]

Like Erica. Erica, imagine that. You now have to watch a series where Reggie.

[D]

And Reggie's gonna. And he's gonna be broadcasting.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But you like him now. He's pretty.

[D]

Like, I do like him now. I can respect him now. But like, then I didn't hate Michael Jordan. I was jealous of Michael Jordan.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Right, Right.

[D]

But I hated Reggie Miller.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah.

[D]

I'm just calling because I was there on Monday night. I was there on Friday night.

[Alan Hahn]

Lucky.

[D]

It was absolute. I'm just, I'm finding these tickets last minute and I'm finding people to go.

[Alan Hahn]

With and I'm going, wait, do you mind? Like, would you be willing to reveal what you were able to get Friday's ticket for one.

[D]

So Friday tickets, I got them at 11am $652 for section 208, row. 15 for the.

[Alan Hahn]

Each of, for the two for each.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Oh, that's a lot of money.

[Don Hahn]

It's a big deal.

[D]

It's better than it was when I've waited 25 years, if you have it. You know, I, I Also, I turned 40 this year. My 40th birthday was opening night, October 25th. I watched them beat the Pacers courtside. Alan Hahn, you were. I reached my hand out and I would have touched your pant leg.

[Alan Hahn]

You didn't say hello.

[Peter Rosenberg]

That's a drop.

[D]

I, I, well, I screamed your name and you smiled.

[Alan Hahn]

Okay, There you go.

[D]

I have a, I have a picture of it. Looks like you're looking at me. You're not. But a picture that looks like I took of you.

[Don Hahn]

Can you send that on social media? I want to see.

[Alan Hahn]

Send that. Yeah.

[D]

Yes, I can. I absolutely can send it.

[Don Hahn]

Send it to us. I want, I want to see that.

[D]

I will. I'll send it to you guys. It was just absolutely amazing. I also met you had. Last year. You had Freewell on. On my 39th birthday at T Square. And I went and I got my jersey signed and I wore my jersey Friday night. It was so amazing. Friday night. And I just wanted to call because you made me laugh when saying people were on the edge of their feet. Everyone around us, even up 40, was still like, don't, don't give up. Don't give up.

[Don Hahn]

Don't give up.

[D]

Someone next to us Was like, guys, we're up. It's fine. They're like, we all turned around. We're like, are you new?

[Peter Rosenberg]

Are you new?

[D]

Because we have watched this happen where everything gets taken away in a blink of an eye.

[Don Hahn]

I don't know, maybe just a sports talk radio guy in me. So, Erica, you probably not sensing this, but I was disappointed that it was on a Friday. Like, I wanted to do a show next day. The next day.

[D]

I do agree. I do. I watched Ray in the Morning from dnr. He does, like, his little live. He went live. And even he was saying he's like, it's so sad that I can't talk about this tomorrow morning.

[Don Hahn]

Yeah, yeah. And listen, Friday, I don't know. Friday always seems like the day you don't want to have great news because it's like the newspapers mail it in. You know, the sports. You don't get your normal sports talk right again. The guys on the weekend do a terrific job.

[Alan Hahn]

But that's why Friday at 5 is usually when all the negative press release.

[Don Hahn]

Right, exactly. That's when you fire coaches. That was like, traditionally, when MSG would make some kind of major, you know, change because they knew it would be kind of light. And by the time Monday comes, it's like, you feel like it's right, saturated.

[Alan Hahn]

It's already run its course.

[Don Hahn]

We opened with it because we've done so much with it and we'll get to the Mets and Yankees and all that, but it just felt like as great as you wanted it to be over, I was just like, man, if this was Thursday, it'd make for a great Friday. Gonna set things up. And now. Now we were really betwixt in between as far as, like, you know, the recap was from a couple of days ago. Game one's not for a couple of days.

[Alan Hahn]

But. See, why I feel like this is still timely is because think about this weekend. This was the first satisfied weekend.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Oh, yeah.

[Alan Hahn]

A Knicks fan has had in a quarter century. You can't think of another time in May. Whereas a Knicks fan, you were. You felt satisfied and you were able to enjoy it. Like, the Thunder just won a game yesterday, they play tomorrow, they get to enjoy a Game seven victory and moving on to the conference finals for one day. And then it's right back to the anxiety a Knick fan gets to sit all weekend.

[Don Hahn]

Players love. I bet you the players love it.

[Alan Hahn]

Well, they. They get. They get a chance to take a break. Saturday was like the exhale.

[Don Hahn]

Right.

[Alan Hahn]

And then Sunday treatment, back at it.

[Don Hahn]

And at least Thunder don't have to travel. So, like, they were. They were home in the afternoon, played late tomorrow.

[Alan Hahn]

But I meant for fans.

[Don Hahn]

Oh, but fans, yes.

[Alan Hahn]

To just be able to have that sense of serenity for a couple of days before the anxiety kicks back in. Which, you know, it will Wednesday.

[Don Hahn]

Oh.

[Alan Hahn]

And then it's like, oh, my God, we lose game one. Always good. And then it becomes, well, if they don't win the series, tips has got to go. And, you know, all that's coming back. The angry is coming back. Just get a chance to enjoy four days of serenity.

[Don Hahn]

Beautiful Griffin in Connecticut. You're on ESPN New York. What's up, buddy?

[Alan Hahn]

What's up, Griff?

[D]

Hey, guys. How are you? I have a question for Alan, and all of you guys can answer this, but Alan's a basketball guy. Maybe he'll agree with me. I heard Stephen A today, and I'm so disagreeing with him when he says that Halliburton is not a superstar. I think. I think Brunson and Halliburton are both superstars. I think we have two superstars in this series. I don't agree with him when he says Halliburton is not a superstar. I think he is. I. I'm wondering what you think, Alan, if he's right, or do you. Do you do a disagree with him?

[Alan Hahn]

I have this issue because I'm very literal. Superstars to me are box office. No matter where they go, people are buying tickets to watch them play. So for me, I think the league only has 5, 6, 7.

[Don Hahn]

So that knocks Brunson out. You think?

[Alan Hahn]

Yeah, I don't think there's an stars. Yes. Oh, yeah. No, no.

[Don Hahn]

Superstar.

[Alan Hahn]

Superstar again. Like, they. They move the needle in every market no matter what. And I think that's why, like, I'm not saying that Stephen A's right. I'm not saying he's wrong. What I'm saying is, is I don't throw superstar around. Superstars are Steph Curry, LeBron James, Giannis. Like, those are. When they go somewhere, there's fans there just to see them.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I agree that that's.

[Alan Hahn]

I don't think Halliburton's doing that around the league at all. I don't think anybody around the league can't wait to see Tyrese Halliburton play. I think Jalen Brunton. Brunson's getting closer than Tyrese Halliburton is because there's something about Brunson that you just love because of his toughness and and you know what? He represents all the things about him you're seeing around the league pop up. But superstar, I don't know. I. I don't throw that around Real.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But can we. Can we also say Anthony Edwards is a superstar?

[Alan Hahn]

People want to watch that guy play.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah. And by the way, Anthony Edwards is just getting to where I think in a sec. In a different market, you'd buy tickets.

[Alan Hahn]

To see him because he's got some swag about him.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Like, he's got that. He literally reminds you of Michael Jordan. I mean, that. That's the bottom line move. So, like the word superstar, if we're being proper about it. No, Tyrese is not that. But in terms of you're watching two teams play, he's going to play like a superstar. He has it in him to lead a team. He can go off for 45 points in a clutch spot at any time. He is that dude, though. And by the way, big moment. No problem. He's that, too.

[Don Hahn]

Yeah.

[Alan Hahn]

Yeah. And I just think. I think that's a fair. A fair way to put it.

[Peter Rosenberg]

By the way, was Reggie Miller ever beyond that? No, he's like, kind of like Reggie Miller.

[Alan Hahn]

Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Just not there yet.

[Alan Hahn]

But he's there.

[Peter Rosenberg]

It's that kind of level.

[Alan Hahn]

And Jalen Brunson is a lot like Patrick Ewing. Patrick Ewing was a great player, but, you know, you wouldn't call him one of the league superstars. Shaq eclipsed him. And Hakeem eclipsed him as a center. Like, Patrick was a great player, but it wasn't as if around the league, he had probably fans from Georgetown days and that just carried through. But it wasn't like during his playing career, he was one of the most sought after stars in the league. You know, like, that's just the way it was. There were other. There were other bigger brand names than him, and there's nothing. It's not a knock on him. It's just a reality. When it comes to marketability and fan appreciation and all those things that are real, Shaq was somebody that transcended the sport. Superstars, to me, are the ones that are box office, that are national, commercial level. Charisma. Charisma. Like, that's the kind of thing that makes you a super.

[Don Hahn]

Yeah. There's a lot of things that go beyond just the game.

[Alan Hahn]

Just the game. Yeah. Yeah.

[Don Hahn]

On the court.

[Alan Hahn]

Thanks for listening to the Don Hahn and Rosenberg podcast. I don't want to know how the sausage is made, but I just want to know. It's good. Hear more of Don Allen and Peter Weekday afternoon starting at 3 on 8 80, ESPN, the ESPN New York app, and your smart speakers.