Podcast Summary: "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" – Hour 1: Knicks Concern?
Release Date: May 15, 2025
In the episode titled "Hour 1: Knicks Concern?", hosts Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg delve deep into the New York Knicks' ongoing playoff series against the Boston Celtics. The conversation intertwines detailed game analysis, player performances, coaching decisions, and fan perspectives, offering listeners a comprehensive overview of the series' current state and its potential trajectory.
1. Series Overview and Current Standing
The discussion kicks off with an overview of the Knicks-Celtics series, focusing on the unexpected developments in recent games. Alan Hahn sets the stage by reflecting on the anticipation surrounding Game 5:
Alan Hahn [00:52]: "It's a tough day. I think a lot of Knicks fans were expecting Thursday to be all about preparing for the Pacers and celebrating, moving on to the conference final."
However, the outcome defied expectations as the Knicks faced challenges that have now put their advancement in jeopardy.
2. Defensive Struggles and Key Game Moments
A significant portion of the episode centers on the Knicks' defensive shortcomings, particularly in the second half of Game 5. The hosts dissect pivotal moments that swung the game's momentum in favor of the Celtics.
Alex [02:20]: "The frustrating part is you feel like the Knicks could have finished them."
They highlight several contentious plays involving Jalen Brunson and Jalen Brown, questioning the officials' calls and their impact on the game's outcome.
Alex [03:34]: "How did that enter into the chat? If you're going to play physical now we're going to do is we're going to punch each other in the nuts."
The hosts express frustration over what they perceive as unsportsmanlike conduct and questionable officiating that disadvantaged the Knicks.
3. Coaching Decisions and Player Utilization
Coaching strategies, particularly those related to player rotations and foul management, come under scrutiny. The acquisition of a player referred to as "Cat" is a hot topic, with Alex questioning the decision-making process behind this move.
Alex [36:50]: "When you consider everything they invested in the season and also the fact that they are trying to win a championship here... so that's why they did it."
Additionally, Julius Randle's performance and the handling of key players like Derrick White are analyzed, highlighting inconsistencies that have plagued the Knicks throughout the series.
4. Player Performances and Inconsistencies
The episode delves into individual performances, spotlighting both strengths and weaknesses. Derrick White's shooting inefficiency is a point of contention:
Alan Hahn [09:08]: "7 for 13 from 3 yesterday, by the way, that you cannot do that."
Conversely, players like OG Anunoby and Jalen Brunson receive mixed reviews based on their fluctuating performances in crucial moments.
5. Emotional and Psychological Factors
The emotional toll of the series on the Knicks is palpable, with discussions about the team's ability to handle pressure and maintain composure under scrutiny.
Alan Hahn [04:58]: "I don't feel it. I just get this frustration of these guys do this all the freaking time."
The hosts debate whether the Knicks can muster the necessary urgency and mental fortitude to overcome their current predicament.
6. Fan Perspectives and Listener Calls
Listener interactions provide a grassroots perspective on the team's struggles and expectations. Kadeem from Brooklyn shares his confidence tempered by the Knicks' history of near misses:
Kadeem [21:19]: "Do I have 100% confidence that we're going to close it out tomorrow? I do, but this is just what the Knicks do."
Robert from Queens echoes similar sentiments, emphasizing the need for strategic adjustments and expressing skepticism about recent coaching decisions.
Robert [35:16]: "Why did we go out and get Cat? What was the point of Cat?"
7. Upcoming Game Forecast and Series Implications
Looking ahead to Game 6, the hosts speculate on potential outcomes and their implications. There's a consensus that the Knicks must address their defensive lapses to avoid a premature exit from the playoffs.
Alex [17:32]: "If somehow they don't, the level of fear that will kick in heading into game seven back in Boston, that... is a tough spot."
The possibility of a deciding Game 7 looms, bringing added pressure on both teams to perform under high stakes.
8. Officiating Controversies and Game Dynamics
Controversial officiating decisions are a recurring theme, with the hosts debating specific calls that may have favored the Celtics unfairly.
Alex [44:58]: "Do you have any? Did you have a problem with any of them?"
These discussions underscore the frustration felt by the Knicks' fanbase regarding perceived biases and inconsistent rule enforcement.
9. Concurrent Baseball Discussions
The podcast briefly touches upon the overlapping baseball events, particularly the Mets vs. Yankees games, assessing how these may affect viewership and fan engagement.
Alan Hahn [26:34]: "You’re going to get an hour and 10 minutes of Mets, Yankees all by themselves before the Knick game starts."
While not the primary focus, this segment highlights the interconnectedness of New York's sports culture and its impact on fan experiences.
Notable Quotes:
- Alan Hahn [00:52]: "It's a tough day... moving on to the conference final."
- Alex [02:20]: "The frustrating part is you feel like the Knicks could have finished them."
- Alan Hahn [09:08]: "7 for 13 from 3 yesterday, by the way, that you cannot do that."
- Kadeem [21:19]: "This is just what the Knicks do."
- Robert [35:16]: "Why did we go out and get Cat? What was the point of Cat?"
Conclusion
The episode "Hour 1: Knicks Concern?" offers a thorough analysis of the New York Knicks' playoff challenges, balancing critical evaluation with a hopeful outlook. The hosts provide listeners with nuanced perspectives on team dynamics, strategic decisions, and the emotional landscape of high-stakes basketball. For fans and newcomers alike, this episode serves as an insightful guide to understanding the complexities of the Knicks' journey in the 2025 playoffs.
Catch the full episode on demand via the ESPN New York app or your preferred podcast platform.