Don, Hahn & Rosenberg: Hour 1 - Knicks Win Game 5
Release Date: May 30, 2025

Episode Overview

In this electrifying episode of Don, Hahn & Rosenberg, host Don LaGreca, seasoned broadcaster Alan Hahn, and hip-hop aficionado Peter Rosenberg delve deep into the New York Knicks' pivotal Game 5 victory. The trio offers comprehensive analysis, shares insider insights, and engages with passionate callers, making it a must-listen for Knicks fans and sports enthusiasts alike.

1. Knicks' Game 5 Victory Recap

The episode kicks off with the hosts celebrating the Knicks' triumphant win in Game 5, a crucial step in their playoff journey.

Alan Hahn [01:09]: "Alive. The Knicks are alive."

Don LaGreca highlights the significance of the win, emphasizing the importance of maintaining momentum as the series progresses.

Don LaGreca [01:14]: "Can't say well, you're down three, two. Got to go to Indiana on Saturday. But you know what? They're alive."

2. Game Performance Analysis

The hosts dissect the Knicks' performance, focusing on key statistics and strategic plays that led to their victory.

• Turnovers and Lead Management:

  While turnovers remained a concern, the Knicks managed to limit them more effectively than the Pacers, allowing them to build and maintain a substantial lead.

  Alan Hahn [01:14]: "They didn't cut down on the turnovers, but they made sure they had less than the Pacers had."

• Player Contributions:

  Players like Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikhail Bridges played pivotal roles, both offensively and defensively, contributing to the team's success.

  Alan Hahn [04:35]: "If you want to climb this mountain."

3. Player Highlights and Performances

The discussion delves into individual player performances, highlighting standout moments and areas for improvement.

• Karl-Anthony Towns:

  Towns' consistent scoring and leadership were crucial in anchoring the Knicks' offense.

• Mikhail Bridges:

  Bridges' defensive prowess, especially against Tyrese Haliburton, was a game-changer. His ability to limit Haliburton's effectiveness was instrumental in the Knicks' strategy.

  Don LaGreca [17:04]: "He was slowing down their offense because he... was battling and staying with them the whole way."

• Jalen Brunson:

  Brunson's playoff performance was commendable, averaging significant points and assists.

  Don LaGreca [18:34]: "Following a loss in the playoffs of the season, Jalen Brunson has averaged 32 points and 7 assists on 50% shooting and he's plus 71. The Knicks are 6 and 1 in those games. Case closed."

4. Coaching and Strategic Adjustments

Alan Hahn provides insights into Coach Thibodeau's strategic adjustments, emphasizing his adaptive coaching style.

Alan Hahn [15:01]: "He's playing a five-man lineup of four bench players around Karl Anthony Towns. He has literally torn up the plan that they have used all season and rewritten it in the middle of the Eastern Conference finals."

This adaptability has allowed the Knicks to secure two of the last three games, showcasing the effectiveness of mid-series adjustments.

5. Series Outlook and Future Games

The hosts discuss the implications of the Game 5 win on the series' dynamics and the challenges that lie ahead.

• Pressure on Indiana:

  With the series tied, the Pacers now face increased pressure to perform, especially when nearing elimination.

  Alan Hahn [12:34]: "They're up 3:1. They could afford to have a mile in and still have two more cracks at it. They're going home to play game six."

• Potential Scenarios:

  The trio speculates on possible outcomes, including the Pacers' resilience and the Knicks' need to maintain their momentum.

  Peter Rosenberg [06:31]: "All right, we Know we have to do what? Talk to the people."

6. Fan Interaction and Callers' Perspectives

Engaging with listeners, the hosts entertain various viewpoints and questions from dedicated fans.

• Caller Insights:

  Callers share their thoughts on player performances, strategic decisions, and their personal experiences attending the games.

  Caller [34:38]: "They reeled me back in and there was nothing like, you know, seeing Huckamania Huck 40 go wild. Dropping the leg drop late in that game last night."

• Host Responses:

  Don, Alan, and Peter provide thoughtful responses, acknowledging valid points and expanding on the callers' observations.

  Don LaGreca [34:34]: "He was great."

7. Notable Quotes and Moments

• Intensity and Passion:

  The hosts express their deep passion for the game and the team's performance.

  Don LaGreca [07:17]: "Anybody that was near me, especially in that first half, could see that I was completely unhinged."

• Strategic Praise:

  Applauding key strategic moves that influenced the game's outcome.

  Don LaGreca [17:04]: "He took a 20 point lead, down to 10, almost by himself. And I'm going, okay, here we go."

• Player Accountability:

  Discussing player responsibilities and the impact of their actions on the game's result.

  Peter Rosenberg [06:31]: "It was exactly. I mean, there were just some moments... those breaks just all went the Knicks way yesterday."

8. Closing Thoughts

As the episode wraps up, the hosts reiterate the importance of the Knicks' performance and set the stage for upcoming games and discussions.

Don LaGreca [38:35]: "Catch the show on demand. You want. Just subscribe to us wherever you get your podcasts."

The trio leaves listeners with a sense of anticipation for the next episodes, promising continued in-depth analysis and lively discussions.

Key Takeaways

• Momentum is Crucial: The Knicks' ability to secure a win in Game 5 has reinvigorated their playoff aspirations.
• Strategic Adaptability: Coach Thibodeau's mid-series adjustments have been instrumental in the Knicks' recent successes.
• Player Performances Matter: Individual contributions, particularly from Towns, Bridges, and Brunson, have been pivotal in shaping game outcomes.
• Fan Engagement: Active listener participation enriches the discussion, providing diverse perspectives and insights.

For more in-depth analysis and engaging sports discussions, subscribe to Don, Hahn & Rosenberg on your preferred podcast platform or via the ESPN New York app.