Podcast Summary: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg – "Hour 1: Knicks Outclassed"

Introduction

In the April 9, 2025 episode of the Don, Hahn & Rosenberg podcast titled "Hour 1: Knicks Outclassed," hosts Don LaGreca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg delve deep into the recent performance of the New York Knicks, particularly focusing on their game against the Boston Celtics. The discussion spans game analysis, team dynamics, coaching decisions, and fan expectations, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the Knicks' current standing and future prospects.

Game Recap

The episode kicks off with a recap of the Knicks' recent matchup against the Celtics at Madison Square Garden. Don LaGreca expresses his disappointment with the outcome, highlighting the Knicks' inability to secure a decisive victory despite having a talented roster.

Knicks' Performance

Alan Hahn provides a critical analysis of the Knicks' performance, emphasizing that while the team is undoubtedly talented, they fall short when compared to the Celtics. He states, “We're not anywhere yet in the class of the Boston Celtics” (04:01). Hahn underscores the frustration of witnessing a talented team struggle to execute under pressure, particularly criticizing key moments where Knicks players missed crucial opportunities.

Peter Rosenberg echoes these sentiments, noting the Knicks' near misses and the Celtics' strategic gameplay. He remarks, “The Celtics are batting the bunny,” referring to their effective offensive strategies that left the Knicks scrambling (02:21). Rosenberg also appreciates the Celtics' ability to control the game tempo, which ultimately led to their victory.

Celtics' Dominance

Don LaGreca acknowledges the Celtics' superior execution, especially in the second half of the game. He points out that the Celtics played with intention and strategic foresight, contrasting this with the Knicks' more reactive approach. LaGreca mentions, “Celtics had no idea what was going on there,” referring to the chaotic inbounds play that favored the Celtics (03:59).

Coaching Decisions

A significant portion of the discussion centers around the Knicks' coaching decisions, particularly those made by head coach Tom Thibodeau. Hahn criticizes the lack of effective strategy in handling the Celtics' star player, Jayson Tatum. He questions the decision-making process during critical moments, stating, “I didn't care if the Celtics won. To be honest, I'm a fraud. I kind of was hoping the Knicks would get a win here to end the year and have something to be excited about” (06:43).

Peter Rosenberg adds to the critique by dissecting the final play where Anunoby fouled Tatum. He argues that Thibodeau should have opted to foul immediately to prevent Tatum from taking a potentially game-winning shot, highlighting a missed opportunity for strategic defense: “Anunoby should have fouled Tatum. The whole world knew that” (05:58).

Don LaGreca supports the criticism, emphasizing that such coaching missteps hinder the team's progress: “It's almost like you can see what's going to happen at the end. And it's just maddening” (05:30).

Team Building and Future Outlook

The hosts discuss the Knicks' ongoing rebuilding process, acknowledging that while the team has made significant improvements, they are still not at the level required to challenge top-tier teams like the Celtics. Don LaGreca insists, “This is year one here, guys. It's not a rebuild. It was a reset one year, and they are better than they were last year, but it's just not gonna look that way” (08:25).

Alan Hahn compares the Knicks' process to that of the Philadelphia 76ers' "Trust the Process," arguing that genuine team building involves enduring losses to grow stronger. He states, “This is a real process in sports, where you learn from losing, you grow as a team” (08:38).

The conversation extends to comparing the Knicks with other franchises like the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Boston Celtics, highlighting differences in team stability and front office decisions. Hahn notes, “Cleveland's roster didn't change. The coach changed. They were a really good team last year” (16:07), suggesting that continuity plays a crucial role in a team's success.

Fan Expectations and Frustrations

Don LaGreca addresses the divided sentiments among Knicks fans, where some demand immediate results and drastic changes, while others understand the importance of the rebuilding phase. He emphasizes the necessity of patience and realistic expectations: “Don't look at it as just the standings, guys. They made it to the second round last year. Gonna get balanced in the second round this year” (11:50).

Peter Rosenberg adds that frustration often stems from unrealistic expectations, with some fans wanting the team to perform beyond their current capabilities, leading to calls for firing coaches and making sweeping roster changes prematurely.

Key Quotes

• Don LaGreca (04:01): "We're not anywhere yet in the class of the Boston Celtics."

• Alan Hahn (06:43): "This is year one here, guys. It's not a rebuild. It was a reset one year, and they are better than they were last year, but it's just not gonna look that way."

• Peter Rosenberg (05:58): "Anunoby should have fouled Tatum. The whole world knew that."

• Alan Hahn (08:38): "This is a real process in sports, where you learn from losing, you grow as a team."

Conclusion

The "Knicks Outclassed" episode of Don, Hahn & Rosenberg offers a thorough critique of the Knicks' recent performance, highlighting the team's potential hindered by strategic missteps and coaching decisions. The hosts advocate for patience and a continued focus on team development, urging fans to maintain realistic expectations as the Knicks navigate their rebuilding phase. Through insightful analysis and passionate discussion, the episode underscores the complexities of transforming a talented team into championship contenders.