Hour 1: LIVE from Stout

Summary

Podcast Summary: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg – "Hour 1: LIVE from Stout"

Podcast Information:

• Title: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg
• Hosts: Don LaGreca (ESPN New York), Alan Hahn (ESPN New York/New Jersey), Peter Rosenberg (Hip Hop and WWE Personality)
• Episode: Hour 1: LIVE from Stout
• Release Date: April 29, 2025
• Description: Join Don LaGreca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg as they delve into the latest in New York sports, particularly focusing on the Knicks’ playoff journey, alongside engaging discussions on various other topics.

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1. Setting the Stage: The Knicks vs. Pistons Playoff Showdown (00:49 – 23:25)

The episode kicks off with the hosts intensely discussing the impending Game Five between the New York Knicks and the Detroit Pistons, a critical elimination game. Alan Hahn sets the scene live from Stout in New York City, highlighting the historical significance of the Knicks attempting to clinch a series the team hasn’t succeeded in over 25 years.

• Alan Hahn [00:49]: “We are getting you ready for the Knicks and the Pistons. Game five, an elimination game, something Knicks are trying to do that they haven't done in over 25 years.”

Peter Rosenberg underscores the rarity of this moment, referencing the Knicks’ last significant playoff success in June 1999, pre-Y2K and pre-9/11 era.

• Peter Rosenberg [01:23]: “Well, there's one thing to get to and that's the Knicks trying to do something they haven't done since June of 1999.”

The hosts reminisce about the differences between past and present playoff atmospheres, noting advancements like the transition from dial-up internet to current broadcasting technologies.

Key Discussion Points:

• Historical Context: The Knicks’ long playoff drought and their aspirations to make a significant impact this season.

• Player Impact: Emphasis on key players such as Larry Johnson’s anticipated performance and Jalen Brunson’s pivotal role.

• Series Expectations: The possibility of the Knicks advancing further than their historical precedent, with discussions on potential matchups against storied franchises like the Celtics and Golden State.

2. Player Highlights and Performances (13:03 – 17:14)

The conversation shifts to spotlighting standout players who could influence the series' outcome. Jalen Brunson is lauded for his consistent high-scoring performances in the playoffs, averaging 30 points per game—a critical asset for the Knicks.

• Peter Rosenberg [15:01]: “Brunson or JB though... That's a better effort and never a more unbiased crowd than the one right here.”

Karl-Anthony Towns is highlighted as a significant addition to the Knicks, with expectations that his performance could counteract previous playoff shortcomings.

• Alan Hahn [15:44]: “What you just said. By the way, let's take that into the next segment.”

Bridges is also mentioned as a player who, if he can maintain his scoring streak, could be instrumental in securing a victory against the Pistons.

• Peter Rosenberg [14:27]: “He's played well, he had his moments defensively, but you like to see him explode the other guy...”

3. Officiating and Its Impact on the Game (18:01 – 22:47)

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the role of officiating in the playoff series, particularly focusing on referee Jason Goble. The hosts debate Goble’s past controversial calls, especially a disputed foul against Jalen Brunson in a previous game, and how his presence might influence the current game’s dynamics.

• Alan Hahn [18:01]: “He called it. Rockets made the free throws. Knicks lose the game that the league the next day says that foul shouldn't have been called.”

They explore the potential for officiating to sway the game, discussing whether referees might tighten their calls to maintain fairness or be influenced by past grievances.

• Peter Rosenberg [21:04]: “If they call it tight and the Pistons could end up being in foul trouble...”

4. Strategic Expectations and Team Performance (22:47 – 35:40)

The hosts delve into strategic expectations for the Knicks, emphasizing the necessity for the team to secure a decisive win to avoid a game seven. Discussions highlight the Knicks' need to perform consistently and capitalize on their star players' strengths to overcome the Pistons.

• Alan Hahn [45:04]: “What you're telling me is you are saying second round's house money. It sounds like you're saying this team's not supposed to do anything after this.”

Peter Rosenberg challenges the notion of elevated expectations, suggesting that fans should cherish the moment rather than impose undue pressure for the Knicks to advance further.

• Peter Rosenberg [43:32]: “But yes, they are. Oh, no, no. They are absolutely seeing the Knicks have no chance in the second round.”

The conversation touches upon the impact of Cleveland’s unexpected rise to the one seed, altering the expected playoff trajectory and forcing the Knicks into a matchup they hadn't originally anticipated.

5. Fan Engagement and Celebrations (10:42 – 13:53)

Anticipation builds around the potential celebration if the Knicks win the game. The hosts discuss how the streets of New York could erupt in celebration, drawing parallels to past iconic moments. They envision large-scale festivities, possibly involving crowd favorites like the song "Mo Bamba," and the cultural significance of such a victory for Knicks fans.

• Don LaGreca [12:17]: “Don't you dare dream about beating the Celtics.”

They also mention the shift in broadcasting dynamics, noting that this could be one of the last playoff games fully broadcasted by regional sports networks, adding a layer of historical importance to the event.

6. Upcoming Segments and Guests (23:25 – 35:40)

As the show progresses, the hosts tease upcoming segments and special guests, including Monica McNutt and Larry Johnson, who are expected to provide deeper insights into the Knicks' strategy and historical context.

• Don LaGreca [13:03]: “We'll have Monica McNutt, everybody like her, she's coming, she's coming through in a little while and we're going to talk some Knicks with her and play a couple of games...”

Additionally, the hosts engage in light-hearted banter about off-topic subjects, such as Bill Belichick’s personal life, showcasing their chemistry and ability to navigate diverse discussions seamlessly.

7. Notable Quotes:

• Don LaGreca [00:25]: “Degree Cool Rush is back and it smells like victory for all of us.”

• Peter Rosenberg [01:23]: “Game five, an elimination game, something Knicks are trying to do that they haven't done in over 25 years.”

• Alan Hahn [10:02]: “It's very much. You don't want to keep tempting fate.”

• Don LaGreca [17:14]: “Prepared for what should be an absolute war tonight.”

• Peter Rosenberg [45:04]: “What you're telling me is you are saying second round's house money...”

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Conclusion:

In this live episode from Stout, Don, Hahn, and Rosenberg provide an in-depth analysis of the Knicks' critical playoff game against the Pistons, blending statistical insights with passionate commentary. The discussion encapsulates the historical weight of the Knicks' playoff aspirations, strategic player performances, the potential influence of officiating, and the fervent hopes of New York fans. With engaging banter and expert opinions, the episode delivers a comprehensive overview for both die-hard followers and casual listeners eager to understand the nuances of this pivotal playoff moment.

Transcript

[Don LaGreca]

Fellas, you know degree Cool Rush deodorant, right? Well, last year they changed the formula and guys were mad about it. One dude even started a petition. So guess what? Degree heard us, admitted they messed up and brought the original Cool Rush scent back exactly how it was. And it's in Walmart, Target and other stores now for under $4. So grab some and remember why its cool, crisp and fresh scent made it the number one men's antiperspirant for the last decade.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Degree Cool Rush is back and it.

[Don LaGreca]

Smells like victory for all of us.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Don, there's no tush push if you're not pushing the tush.

[Alan Hahn]

Don, I want you protecting my blind side.

[Don LaGreca]

And Rosenberg, when I was seven, I was riding shotgun and smoking cigarettes.

[Peter Rosenberg]

This isn't North Dakota. This is New York.

[Alan Hahn]

This is Don, Han and Rosenberg.

[Don LaGreca]

The best threesome I've ever heard on.

[Alan Hahn]

880, ESPN and the ESPN New York app. Welcome everybody to stout here in New York City. Oh, yeah, we are getting you ready for the Knicks and the Pistons. Game five, an elimination game, something Knicks are trying to do that they haven't done in over 25 years. Clinch a series in the world's most famous arena was just a few steps over here.

[Peter Rosenberg]

That's it.

[Alan Hahn]

I am Alan Hahn. This is Don legreca. That is Peter Rosenberg. We are Don Hahn and Rosenberg. Thank you everybody for coming out. We got a lot to get to today, boys.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Well, there's one thing to get to and that's the Knicks trying to do something they haven't done since June of 1999. I mean, think about that. Larry Johnson, who's gonna be here at 5:30, hit that three. That, that big four point play that everybody talks about. That's the series, Alan. That's the series.

[Alan Hahn]

Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

1999.

[Alan Hahn]

Where were you?

[Peter Rosenberg]

This is pre Y2K, pre 9 11. This is like a different world. Simpsons were almost new at that point. I mean, it's only been on the air for 10 years instead of 50. Whatever. Wait, come on.

[Alan Hahn]

This was dial. This was dial up Internet. That's what this was. We're talking dial up Internet.

[Don LaGreca]

Welcome.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And you know, listen, I got on you guys, you got mail. It's kind of corn. Taken to the streets, winning one game of a series that you're supposed to win. But I can understand it tonight if you clinch. Well, good. Now you've done something, man. You've done something for the first time in 26 years. That's a reason to celebrate, man. These fans are.

[Alan Hahn]

Who's running out on the street. If the Knicks win tonight, who's out in seventh? Who's closing? Who's shutting down traffic tonight?

[Peter Rosenberg]

Four people? Yes, absolutely.

[Don LaGreca]

No, it's more than four. That was at least eight people.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But, but no, this is, that's a reason to celebrate and move on. And you know, every executive at TNT just, you know, hoping Knicks, Celtics, throwback, fun. Get. Let's get it going. Like you have the Celtics win tonight and the Knicks win tonight. Just get it all ready.

[Don LaGreca]

Or if you're, if you're a Knicks fan, have the Celtics lose tonight.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Of course, of Knick fans, I'm just saying TNT is salivating at what is, you know, a tremendous matchup.

[Don LaGreca]

Well, they're matchup, let's be honest. They're running out of sexy. I mean, fortunately, Golden State is a step closer now.

[Peter Rosenberg]

They're almost done with Brown looks done. Lakers look done.

[Don LaGreca]

Well, listen, I'm not 3:1. I'm not willing to go as far as. Well, no, they do kind of look done. I'm not willing to go as far as saying they are done. They do look kind of done. That's going to be a very, very tough game for them. And they certainly can't, can't get down early. I could see the air coming out of the building and people start sensing, oh, this whole thing was a joke.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Listen, TNT is looking at the playoffs in basketball and hockey and going, I got no Rangers, I got no Bru, I got no Blackhawks, right In the NBA. It's like, you know, I've got, I've got Minnesota, I've got okc, one of the best teams in the league. You know, I want, I want something here. You know, I need Ovechkin to make a run. I need the Knicks to make a run.

[Don LaGreca]

What is, what's the cap series score?

[Peter Rosenberg]

They're up 3 1. They should be all right.

[Don LaGreca]

By the way, how, how opposite of football is basketball when it comes to the tv. So football, any teams could play and, and, and Bear and Maya could be on commentary. It wouldn't make a difference. The NBA, their series are important, but culturally, people are locked in to turning on TNT every night just to watch the general show that is the NBA on tnt. The bonus, of course, would be. And when you get to the late in the playoffs and you want to pop big ratings, you need the big dogs. But I feel like in these early series, Allen, people have a tendency to just turn on tv, see what games are on and hope that Shaq has to drop a deuce on national Television, you never know what you're gonna get.

[Alan Hahn]

It is definitely like the first round is just kind of like you're looking, you know, and if you just let me look in, let me see what's going on. Is this a good series? If it's your hometown team, you're gonna watch the whole game. Obviously, it's the only round. And this is the last time ever, by the way. It's kind of sad. This could be, could be tonight, the last time MSG networks broadcast a playoff game. Because from here on out, there are no more playoff games that regional sports networks can actually broadcast the whole game. So this could be, if the Knicks win tonight, that, that swan song. So you'll be watching your team, but when your team's not playing. Yeah, you're gonna, you're gonna duck in, you're gonna look. Is it a good game? We all know last night, that game in Miami, was that a good game?

[Peter Rosenberg]

No, we're down.

[Alan Hahn]

You know, you were down 50 points.

[Don LaGreca]

But it made you miss playoff gym. You missed playoff, Jim.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But you're so right. In the first round of the playoffs, right? You get away from the whole load, management and all that. You get into the now you got multiple games. There's games, there's games overlapping each other. You know, this game's on this channel, this game's on that channel. This game's going in overtime. And even the blowouts, there's like stories like, you see what happened to Memphis last night. Oh, my God. Because there's so much going on. And then you literally get rid of half the teams after the first round. And now it's on, right? You get rid of that flotsam and jetsam, you get rid of the wannabes, you get rid of the play in teams. And now you get down to the brass tacks. And that's where you want those teams. That's where you want the big stars. That's where you need Golden State. That's where you need the Lakers. You need the Knicks, you need the Celtics. That's what you need. So they kind of roll their eyes at okc, Although OKC is a great story if you're a basketball fan. You love that story. You love the Minnesota story, but get the big markets, the traditional teams. That's what, that's what the winter sports are looking for once you get to the second round and it looks like TNT is going to get their wish. And if you're the Knicks, you know, take care of business tonight.

[Alan Hahn]

That's the most important dance.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Win and The Celtics win, let them win, whatever. What do you figure the series will start when you get a guess on when game one would be.

[Alan Hahn]

It could be Saturday night, all depending on what happens. I think the Clippers Denver series, which is the most competitive series we have so far, that could go seven. If it goes seven, that's 8:30 Saturday.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Right.

[Alan Hahn]

Which I think could push a Knicks Celtics game one to Sunday afternoon.

[Don LaGreca]

Will they not start any like Eastern Conference ones the day of the seven?

[Alan Hahn]

Yeah, you, you could see an afternoon game or even a 6 o'clock game on Saturday. I don't know if they'll do that to Nick Celtics. Because it's too big. Yeah, it's really, it's too big markets. It's too big like that. You'd want at 8:30 or 3:30 on Sunday, ABC.

[Peter Rosenberg]

So you're looking. So you're looking. If you wrap things up tonight, you're not playing again till Saturday. Or Sunday.

[Alan Hahn]

Or Sunday.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yes. And listen, the Celtics probably need it just as bad, if not more than Knicks because they've got a couple of guys nursing injuries. Right. Tatum's coming off an injury. Brown doesn't look 100%. So they could certainly benefit. That's why you'd love to see if the Celtics were to lose, have to.

[Alan Hahn]

Play an extra game that got dicey.

[Peter Rosenberg]

So I just, I think you just want to be as well rested and.

[Don LaGreca]

Prepared for what should be an absolute war tonight. You know, Don talked yesterday on the show about his concern with some different things regarding the Knicks. And I think with fair reason, I brought this up too. They're sort of inability to close out cleanly. These games have been like really touch and go down the stretch tonight is a huge test because if they don't close out tonight, you know, and they were to either a just lose like badly, that would obviously be very problematic, or give something away late, then you start to have this worry of like, oh man, they weren't even able to close out in this spot. Now they got to go back to Detroit again. Your heart is immediately in the throats if you're a Knicks fan.

[Alan Hahn]

If they lose to them, remember last season, same situation. They went, they. So they get two games at home, they split in Philly, they come back for game five up three one in control. And they had that emotional win in Game 4 in Philly to take control of the series. And they come back into the garden and Tyrese Maxey had himself, he had 40 something point game. He made every shot late and they couldn't get the win, they had to go back to Philly. Philly was not a house of horrors. Philly was half Nick fans anyway.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Right.

[Alan Hahn]

They had a hobble. Joel Embiid. The Knicks do not want to go back to Detroit. No, there is no interest at all.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Right.

[Alan Hahn]

Getting back in that building and giving that building another chance to create an atmosphere that might, at some point, finally overwhelm. This Pistons team has lost 10 straight playoff games going back to 2008. You want a chance. The fact that they'll go 11, like, at some point they're going to win a home playoff game, don't give them that opportunity this year. I think the mentality of the Knicks team, this Knicks team, based off of that experience from last year, you know, they're all talking about it. You know, they're all talking about, we do not want to pack and go back anywhere else. They want to come out of the gate with their best effort, the most competitive effort they have had to start a game. And it's all going to be, to me, about how they shoot the three early in the game, because they have not shot the three well until late in game four. If they can knock down some early ones and open up a lead, the building will go crazy. And I think then you'll start to see that Nick team like, all right, we got this. But if it's tight, don't. Peter, you're right.

[Don LaGreca]

Scary, scary hours.

[Peter Rosenberg]

So you're asking this game to be different than the previous four. They were all really down to the nub.

[Alan Hahn]

Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And listen, you'll take it any way you can get it. But that's going to be nervous time, because I'm telling you, it's completely on the table that if you lose tonight, you're coming back here for a game seven.

[Alan Hahn]

It's very much. You don't want to keep tempting fate, like you said.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And I really believe if you have to go seven against this team, I give you, like, zero chance in the next round. If you got to go to the distance, oh, yeah. That's really putting yourself behind the eight ball. So take care of business. The building's going to be nuts. Take advantage of that. Get off to a fast start, thump this team by 10, 15 points, and just get ready for Boston. That's the only thing that you could be looking for. If you don't, then I think there's legitimate concerns about this team, especially after what happened last year, because as you said, going to Philadelphia was a completely different animal than would have to go back to Detroit even If you win the game at Detroit, it's still an extra couple of days, Saturday. That's, you know, that's, that's not good. Not good. So take care of business.

[Don LaGreca]

You know what? I, I'll, I'll set the tone early. If, if we don't sense the energy in this place, come 5, 5, 30.

[Alan Hahn]

5, 45, when everybody starts really coming.

[Don LaGreca]

Through, if it doesn't start getting lively in here properly, I'm going to have concerns about what the guards are.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Beautiful day.

[Alan Hahn]

I am not worried about this. Right. This is, this is playoff weather.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Awesome.

[Alan Hahn]

Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

This is just it.

[Alan Hahn]

I am not worried about the fence.

[Peter Rosenberg]

You're coming to the game, get on the train, get in the car, come here early, hang out. We're gonna be here till 6:30. If you don't have any plans to get into the game, but you're gonna be in the city, this is gonna be the place to be. Everybody's gonna be here getting ready for the game and then you can watch it on television because all.

[Alan Hahn]

Well, you also got, you also got the watch party over on 33rd street outside. It's a gorgeous day. It's a gorgeous night. So either way, this is definitely the place to be. And maybe you can see something that you haven't seen in over 25 years, which is a, a playoff clinching celebration. And I'm telling you, I'll predict 7th Avenue will be shut down.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And it should be.

[Alan Hahn]

Yeah.

[Don LaGreca]

Now if, if, if the Knicks win tonight.

[Alan Hahn]

Yep.

[Don LaGreca]

And we get a proper celebration outside the Garden. I'm, I'm calling on nypd. You guys can't take away the stereo when everyone's blasting Mo Bamba. You can't do. I don't know if you saw that video moving around. First of all, it's, it's hilarious to me that Mo Bamba has become like the song to play in all these situations. Obviously with no actual affiliation with the Knicks, but he is from uptown, so is the artist. Check west who the song's by. The song's like 10 years old now, but for whatever reason, that song has become like the celebration record. Guys, you got to let that song play tonight. Give them their moment to celebrate tonight.

[Alan Hahn]

Yeah.

[Don LaGreca]

I trust the Knicks fans. They're going to be fine. They just want to celebrate a bit.

[Peter Rosenberg]

It's a Philly.

[Alan Hahn]

No.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah, exactly.

[Peter Rosenberg]

To be safe.

[Don LaGreca]

You don't have to grease the poles. They're going to be all right. No one's climbing the, the, the Penn Station.

[Peter Rosenberg]

All horses are safe. It good.

[Alan Hahn]

Yeah, Yeah.

[Don LaGreca]

I forgot about the horse.

[Alan Hahn]

Like, like what we saw outside. We used to have the window when we had our studio down on the main floor and there was the window out there on 7th Avenue like that a couple of years ago. Like, that was quite a spectacle. That was something special. And you know, again, it wasn't a clinching at home situation. It was just a playoff win. So we take it up a notch and we'll see if we can certainly get there. But we got a celebration here with you everybody today because we'll have Monica McNutt, everybody like her, she's coming, she's coming through in a little while and we're going to talk some Knicks with her and play a couple of games because we always play games on this show. And then when I do this, what am I, what am I doing? If I do this or am I doing it?

[Peter Rosenberg]

Oh, yeah, do this, what am I doing?

[Alan Hahn]

That is Larry Johnson. Larry Johnson is going to join us later on in the show certainly as well. And he's got stories upon stories upon stories, especially from the 90s Knicks and the 99 run in the playoffs. But when it comes to this team right now we are starting to see people come around, guys. And we did talk about a little bit yesterday on the show, but if you're looking at someone tonight that okay, if they close, they got to close, who are you looking at and saying, this guy brings it, they'll win the game. If this guy brings it, they'll win this game. God, there's a few, we've talked about Brunson and his clutch ability, but I feel like that's the easy answer. That's the easy, give me somebody. Well, I has to bring it tonight. And if I told you, if I didn't tell you who won, but I gave you a stat line, his stat line made your eyes pop. You'll, you'll say, okay, they'll win the game if that happens.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Well, the two guys that jump to mind, obviously you'd love to see Bridges connect and have that because you like at any moment he can score 30. That would be nice for the, have that moment here in a clincher. You know, he's played well, he had his moments defensively, but you like to see him explode the other guy because you know he's, we knocked him for not being able to hit threes and basically it's five on four because he's just not an offensive presence. It's hard, but yet he get what, three of, of four down the stretch. If he was able to stay hot and contribute. Those are two things I don't think the Pistons would be able to overcome. If those guys are able to bring.

[Alan Hahn]

Yeah, I'm looking at, I think, you know, heart, triple, double watch, high energy, like kind of guy that can bring something like that. That's one. If I told you he had a triple. Yeah, they won, right? That's one. I'm looking at Bridges as the other one. I think this could be a big Bridges night. A guy that just starts getting hot from mid range, makes a couple of corner threes and if he can contribute to a higher level, I think that makes such a huge difference. Brunson's a given. I mean, he of course put him in for 30 because like he's starting off the. He's starting off the playoffs with 30, right? Four straight 30 point performances.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Unreal.

[Alan Hahn]

This, this guy averages 30 a game in his Knicks playoff career, so that's put him in an ink. Now, what about a Carl Anthony Towns night?

[Don LaGreca]

That's where I was going to go. I mean, you tell me and to me it seems almost, almost as obvious as Brunson. But like, let's be real. I think, I think Cat is even bigger because there have been plenty of games this season and in the past couple of years where Brunson can give you 40 and they still come up short because not enough other people do it.

[Alan Hahn]

That's right.

[Don LaGreca]

But if Cat were to give you a 30 point night and more importantly, show up with the sort of heart and intensity on both sides that he did the other day. I love this team's chances tonight. And then of course, statistically, you kind of got to believe that if OG has a big game, this team wins.

[Alan Hahn]

Well, yeah, that's who they are. His big game is. His big game is keeping Cade Cunningham, like, frustrated like he did in game four, like he did in game one, like, that's the kind of stuff that he's been bringing because his numbers against Kate have been really good. I look at. Look, we always talk about like the Yankee moment, right? Like a player has his Yankee moment. Did Carl Anthony Towns have his first Knicks moment in game four with either that turnaround jump, that baseline jump shot, which was an insane shot, or even the 30 foot three that put him up for good. Was that a Nick moment? Do you feel like for a guy that the Knicks traded for him, not everybody embraced him as a trade. There are still people that were questioning his toughness and whether or not he can deliver in a big spot. Is that one of those where you say, okay, that's his. That's his, you know, Tino Martinez home run.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah. That's his moment. Yet you have to ask Nick fans, to me, I think it just made up for game two. And now you want to have his moment.

[Alan Hahn]

Yeah, yeah.

[Don LaGreca]

But here, I'll push back on that because I don't know that I see the game two thing as being necessarily a cat on him. So I don't know if I can say it's him making up for it, because I don't know that it was him. I don't know if you were asking rhetorically and you feel it is or not. I think emphatically the answer is yes.

[Alan Hahn]

Yes.

[Don LaGreca]

I mean, 5 for 7 from 3 in the game when they needed a most. He was efficient. He was awesome. And again, Jalen did what Jalen did, but the whole thing was they needed another guy to be the guy, and that was Karl Anthony Towns in that game.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But both could be true because now he can make tonight, tonight in the clincher.

[Alan Hahn]

Right.

[Peter Rosenberg]

The big moment, too, and make you forget about 2 and 4 and everything else by just having it be. Because I think what happens tonight is going to really carry over whether it's a big win, Right? Because it's a chance to do something you haven't done in a long time. And I think that's really important. The other aspect that I find fascinating about this series is the let them play aspect. And if I'm the Pistons and I'm facing elimination and I've been playing with my hair on fire all series, playing aggressive, I'm really bringing it tonight. What do I got to lose, Right? I'm facing elimination.

[Don LaGreca]

I'm on the road.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Nobody expects us to win. They're not calling anything. I'm really getting physical tonight. I'm really getting over the top tonight. What do I got to lose, right? So they'd be doing it all series. Why wouldn't they even bring it even harder and more often in a game in which they're facing elimination?

[Alan Hahn]

It's funny you say that to the officiating crew. Tonight is interesting. Has one name on it that's very interesting. That name is Jason Goble. Now, a lot of Nick fans that pay close attention to the team know Jason Goble had a notorious connection to the Knicks. Two years ago, Jalen Brunson was called for a foul on a shot late against the Rockets. Shouldn't have been called. He called it. Rockets made the free throws. Knicks lose the game that the league the next day says that foul shouldn't have been called. Right. So there was. You talk about, like, a lot of anger, a lot of frustration towards him and this vitriol towards him and him being part of the officiating crew in a very important playoff game is interesting. Now, the league didn't decide this yesterday. This was the referee. Crews are decided for games before the playoffs begin. You're giving your schedule. It's not like the guy sitting home and it's like, oh, hey, you go to New York today, so they know ahead of time where they go. So there's nothing, no funny business going on. Oh, this is the league getting back for what happened in Game 4. It's none of that, but it is curious. It is interesting that on a night where you'd love a Scott Foster, you know, you love a Zack Zarba, you'd love somebody along those lines. A guy that has had some, some history and some issues in the past, not just with the Knicks, with some other teams. He's a good official. He. Otherwise he wouldn't be in the playoffs. But it is one thing certainly to watch. Officiating has been in the playoffs. It always is. Officiating has been part of the personality of each game, game to game. I thought game three, which was again, a veteran crew, Zack Sarber was on that crew, that. That was probably the, the best officiated game of this series so far, which has been a mosh pit of a playoff series. We all know this. So I, like you said, the Pistons could go for broke and say, the hell with it, hit him twice. They can only call one foul. Let's knock them around. Let's frustrate him, whatever it is. Let's just get our pound of flesh and see if it works out. It's up to the officials to decide which way this game could go based on how they call it. Are they going to let everything go again or are they going to call it super tight and the Pistons could end up being in foul trouble because coming off of a game where the, where one team could claim they lost the game because a foul wasn't called, don't you think the personality shift would be. Let's tighten it up. Let's not let everything go. Let's. Let's be a little more aware of all the little things going on and keep this game honest. Yeah, that's what I want to say.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And you know, and the Pistons, because they felt like they got jobbed at the end of the game, they've complained. So does that now send up the radar of okay, you can.

[Alan Hahn]

We owe them.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Which is odd, right?

[Alan Hahn]

Did you say a payback? Is there a payback?

[Peter Rosenberg]

I don't know. I don't know. But I will say Michael K brought.

[Alan Hahn]

This up, too, with two quick fouls early. Get him off and get him out of the game. Like, seriously.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But it was a really good point by him. He's like, wait a minute, you. So you. You want to play tough, but you're complaining about the officiating. Because if they call it. If. If you complain about the officiating, you want more calls, they're going to go against you, man. You got no chance.

[Alan Hahn]

Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

So really, how it's going to get called is going to be very interesting. But if I'm the Pistons, I've got to play the way that I've played. I got to be aggressive and just hope that you don't call a bunch of fouls. And if they do, I don't see the Pistons winning the game at all.

[Alan Hahn]

I would watch an anobi and foul trouble early.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Okay.

[Alan Hahn]

And he doesn't foul. Like, he's really good at staying out of foul trouble. But I would watch early to see if. I don't believe in paybacks. But you know how we are. We all watch things now super carefully. Like, oh, okay, they're gonna. How do they make it up to the Pistons? How do they make up what happened? Because we can all acknowledge that Tim Hardaway Jr. Was fouled, right? No. Every Nick fan here might want to say, well, he leaned in. He didn't know. We all know he got fouled.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah.

[Alan Hahn]

And the league told you he got fouled. The referee told you he got fouled. So there's no disputing it. So there is always, like, you know, the. The umpire makeup call. There's always that, like, where you just know. Or in hockey, they'll call a penalty after they know they called the wrong penalty, they'll call another one even up, make it four or four. Like this does happen sometimes. Will it happen early in this game to give the Pistons some sort of benefit? Early, to allow them to take advantage of a call that might. Might have gone against the Knicks?

[Peter Rosenberg]

And don't forget, the reaction from Knick fans after the call at the end of the game was to say, well, they should have called the. The. The foul on Harris on the other end. But the. But the league said that wasn't a foul. So the league doesn't feel like they got to make up for that.

[Alan Hahn]

Right.

[Peter Rosenberg]

They got to feel like they got to make up for what they admitted was the wrong call at the end of the game. Well, that. So I think it really becomes just fascinating because I know you have a margin for error tonight. You've got three cracks to win this series. But to me, I feel like tonight's got to be the night.

[Alan Hahn]

It has to be.

[Peter Rosenberg]

You don't want to come back here for as much. As magical as a game seven would be here at the Garden, you don't want any part of that.

[Alan Hahn]

You do not. You don't want to get on a plane. You do not want to go back to Detroit.

[Peter Rosenberg]

No.

[Alan Hahn]

Not to mention want to focus on the next round. You want to take care of this business and send this young, hard playing team home and let them learn about it and worry about it next year. That's what you want to do right now. And a veteran team does that. A veteran team comes into this game tonight with a businesslike attitude of close the deal. And a veteran team learns from the past. And this team literally last year, same exact spot, could not close the deal.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And that's got to be something. That's the message and say even though there are different players, they've been reimagined. Yeah. You still have the core here. That's got to remind everybody we were in the spot last year. We failed. We can't afford to do that again this year. We got so much to discuss. I've got a question for all Nick fans when we come back.

[Alan Hahn]

Oh, okay.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And we're going to be talking about this. We've got Monica McNuts coming up at 4:30. We got Larry Johnson at 5:30, got Peter Rosenberg here. We got Alan hot.

[Alan Hahn]

Can't take it Tuesday.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Can't take it Tuesday.

[Alan Hahn]

Can't take it Tuesday.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Try to incorporate Monica in it because it's a 4:30 spot and she's coming on. Why do I think she's not gonna have a problem with this? She's a lot on her mind, man. I did a handful of games with her last year.

[Don LaGreca]

No, she's got a lot.

[Peter Rosenberg]

She's got a lot on her mind.

[Don LaGreca]

And yeah, listen, she has something on everything. So I sent her a voice note and explained the thing and I said it could be whatever you want. It doesn't have to be NBA. It could be wherever you feel like going.

[Alan Hahn]

Yeah.

[Don LaGreca]

She's obviously someone who's up on everything with regard to sports. So yes, we'll do that at 4:30. We got ENN at 6:00.

[Alan Hahn]

You dream about.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah. So we're taking double 6:30. So if you're in the area, 7th Avenue and 33rd Street. So if you're on 7th Avenue, you know, just get on to 33rd. It's a little about what would say.

[Don LaGreca]

About almost halfway down the block between.

[Peter Rosenberg]

7Th and 6th right there on the left side if you're walking away from Madison Square Garden. So if you're going to the game.

[Alan Hahn]

Even if you're in, if you're on the subway, check it out.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Gorgeous day to be out here at Stout on Don Hahn and Rosenberg on ESPN New York. But Peter's got more.

[Don LaGreca]

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[Alan Hahn]

Race the sails.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Raise the sails.

[Don LaGreca]

Captain, an unidentified ship is approaching.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Over.

[Alan Hahn]

Roger, wait. Is that an enterprise sales solution? Reach sales professionals, not professional sailors. With LinkedIn ads, you can target the.

[Don LaGreca]

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[Alan Hahn]

We'll even give you a $100 credit.

[Don LaGreca]

On your next campaign. Get started today at LinkedIn.com results. Terms and conditions apply.

[Peter Rosenberg]

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[Don LaGreca]

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[Peter Rosenberg]

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[Don LaGreca]

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[Don LaGreca]

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[Peter Rosenberg]

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[Don LaGreca]

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[Peter Rosenberg]

We'Ve curated the styles you'll wear on repeat this spring. Free shipping, free returns, and in store pickup make it easier than ever. Shop now in stores [e-mail].

[Alan Hahn]

Thanks for listening to the Don Han and Rosenberg podcast.

[Don LaGreca]

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.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Oh, welcome to New York City.

[Don LaGreca]

Sure, sure, sure.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I see what you're saying.

[Don LaGreca]

Keep going. But next time, Jacob, we need that Mo Bamba that. We need to start getting that, Getting that.

[Alan Hahn]

I thought for sure he's bringing Mo Bamba.

[Don LaGreca]

But welcome to New York City is a good, good energy for the. For the situation. Yeah, it's the right vibe tonight. This is the energy. I hope. Everybody's on at MSG. Don Hahn and Rosenberg live from Stout on 33rd between 6th and 7th.

[Alan Hahn]

We're waking up here. We're waking up.

[Don LaGreca]

So far, we only have the true degenerates here who are, you know, dare you, who are pre gaming three hours early.

[Alan Hahn]

We like to call them Die Hards.

[Don LaGreca]

Oh, sure. Die Hards, drink cards, whatever it is.

[Alan Hahn]

True fans.

[Don LaGreca]

But as everyone gets closer to game time, we hope to see you make your way down. Say hello. Of course, it got big guests. Monica McNutt, Larry Johnson. You never know who else may pop by.

[Alan Hahn]

Is it Don? Don, Just when he walked off like it was as if he was on the sideline as an offensive coordinator. And he spiked his head headphones, like he was not happy with the play.

[Don LaGreca]

He gave you that, like throwing the clipboard and then.

[Alan Hahn]

And then the best part is that he put on the wrong headphones after that.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Well, because we got. I guess Monica is gonna be next to me. So she lost a bet. And this is where the headphones are. And I grabbed the wrong, wrong ones. What happens? I need the guy that holds the wire, you know? Oh, the wire guy's on the sideline that he's running up and down the sidelines with a coach. If you get an animated coach, he doesn't want to lose his headset. So you're running up and down, holding the wire, making sure that's an important job. Fly off his head because it might be a big play.

[Don LaGreca]

There's no wire guy anymore because nothing's wired.

[Alan Hahn]

Those are those right? Those headsets are just wired to your pocket. And that's it. You're done.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Now you ruin the whole image. Everybody knew what I was Talking about running up and down.

[Alan Hahn]

That's the old.

[Peter Rosenberg]

The chain gang's gone, but they, the guy, there's still somebody running up.

[Alan Hahn]

So whatever happened to that job? So this wire guy, that's no longer.

[Don LaGreca]

A job, that's a tech job now. Now it's someone who has to, you.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Know, deal with the headphones, the big footballs, getting rid of jobs now.

[Don LaGreca]

Now I guess, I guess I'll have to save this for enn, but I think it's worth bringing up now because Alan won't be with us at 6:00. He's got his Knicks duty for one of the last couple of times, maybe the last time here tonight. Guys, we speculated at times, especially me. I don't want to say that so far it's aging well for me, but it is my take. We've had a couple of arguments about the Bill Belichick relationship. It is aging so well for me. I mean, did you guys, did you.

[Alan Hahn]

Guys see there is a, there is a conspiracy theory out there now that someone has. What's the word I'm looking for? Anyways, they have put it out on social media and everybody wants to believe it because it's very salacious.

[Don LaGreca]

Which store. I don't even know where you're going. Oh, let me just say what I was referring to.

[Alan Hahn]

CBS Interview itself was. Had its own moments, but now somebody has taken that and turned it into something even more.

[Don LaGreca]

What do you mean?

[Alan Hahn]

I am not going to be the one that, that takes that onto good.

[Don LaGreca]

By the way, I've heard that's a good idea. But it did you see, you saw the clips though, Don.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah, it's not good.

[Don LaGreca]

It's not good.

[Alan Hahn]

Now I forgot to mention how it went. It went like this. Tell us how you met.

[Don LaGreca]

Well, and then we're not talking about off camera. Off the. Off camera now, by the way, this came a couple of weeks, it wasn't worth it that this came a couple of weeks after the. I saw the video of her at North Carolina on the field with him and he's like walking around, they're looking at players. It was a, you know, a spring practice or whatever and she was clearly very involved on the field, like with him. And I was like, what is going on here? And now a couple of weeks later, she's intercepting moments during his interview. Hey, I got news for you guys. If he was dating himself a nice 50 year old, 55 year old, hear me out. I promise you, Bill could have still done very well with like a normal, mature person. And she would be home chilling, like, I'll see you when you get back. This lady is trying to take over his entire life. You know what it was? He was so lucky in his eyes to be experiencing what he was experiencing. You know what this is, Alan? This is a guy who frankly, in his previous life, never had any game, never had any opportunities because he had his head stuck up a book for the last 30 years. All of a sudden, this beautiful 24 year old comes up and he's like, oh, my God, I'll give you everything. And now he looks like a fool. I mean, the year is 2025. Bill Belichick, to be clear, cannot get a job in the NFL. He cannot get a job in the NFL. He is a head coach at a university that many people, up until he got the job, didn't know how to football team.

[Alan Hahn]

I mean, I mean, it's a little.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Taylor forgot.

[Don LaGreca]

I'm being hyperbolic. I'm being hyperbolic on a roll. But they don't compete.

[Alan Hahn]

Okay, let him go.

[Don LaGreca]

You know, with respect to Drake, May or whoever.

[Peter Rosenberg]

He's rolling.

[Don LaGreca]

With respect to whoever's come out of North Carolina, Diami, Brown, whatever. They're not a. A football powerhouse. The man can't work in the league. And now he's on camera looking like the biggest. I don't even know how to describe what we're seeing from Bill Belichick. Like, this is a crazy turn event. Aaron Rodgers. Aaron Rodgers cannot get a job. It's 2025. No one wants Aaron Rodgers to play quarterback and no one wants Bill Belichick to coach. It's a crazy time. We're living.

[Alan Hahn]

It is a crazy time. Their story is one that, you know, I guess is now starting to take a strange turn because of that. Because originally I just thought it was just, you know, two. Two crazy people in love, which did.

[Don LaGreca]

Crazy in love. But now Beyonce and like Beyonce and hove.

[Alan Hahn]

But now it is. It has. It has shown us a little something.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But also it also could be. How do we know that Bill isn't that way with all the women that agree to be with him? And now it's noticeable because she's a story.

[Don LaGreca]

Well, no, it obviously wasn't like that. In past years, he never had anyone showing up to his interviews and sitting next to him. Pressers.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But. But it wouldn't be. It wouldn't be a story. It wouldn't be something.

[Don LaGreca]

Well, no, no, there's no comp though. Die.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I just think that there's certain things.

[Alan Hahn]

Right here with that his Past relationships. He. You never, you never saw her like she. His past relationship.

[Don LaGreca]

And no coach. No coach. Do you ever see their wife? Except when they win the Super Bowl.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Because somebody closer to his age might actually have fallen in love with Bill the person. Clearly, if a 24 year old falls in love with Bill Belichick, we'd love the unicorn or rainbows of. I just love his personality. I love the power of the human being that he is. I'm sure she just liked the fact that the attention she was going to get to be with Bill doesn't mean it wasn't worth it for Bill. Yeah, it's an embarrassing moment, but maybe he'd do it again. I don't know. He might have had his fun. Now it came crashing down like most fun things do. Every party you end up, you know, throwing up in the pool. Right. But didn't mean you wouldn't go back to the party. Right. Still end up being a fun party. So this is the puking in the pul. In the pool moment for Bill Belichick. But it still was a hell of a party.

[Don LaGreca]

One of the rumors that that's out there though, is that like the people around him in his life are leaking. They want to talk to him about it, but he's, quote, in so deep that they're scared to say anything.

[Alan Hahn]

It's like he can't get out.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah.

[Don LaGreca]

Like, he's like, no, I'm in love.

[Alan Hahn]

She's Bill, Bill, blink twice if you're okay.

[Peter Rosenberg]

She's on the dance floor and he's holding the purse. That's, that's, that's the stage of the relationship that he's in. But he'll recover. He'll be fine.

[Don LaGreca]

He'll be.

[Alan Hahn]

How do you think, by the way, people? I think players, there's a lot of maturity when you're 18 to 22 years old. Right. How his players handle this along the way is going to be real. I know, real interesting.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But. And, and this. I think the Steelers want Aaron Rodgers. It's so.

[Don LaGreca]

We think so we got to work.

[Alan Hahn]

Well, they need a quarterback, Don. Somebody's got to play quarterback.

[Peter Rosenberg]

They passed on Shadow. Sure. They must have a plan B.

[Alan Hahn]

Is Roethlisberger still upright? Like, can he give him some minutes? Like, somebody's got to play quarterback for this team.

[Peter Rosenberg]

That is, that is.

[Don LaGreca]

They are probably the craziest pass on Shador when you think about it.

[Alan Hahn]

Oh, yeah, that's the one.

[Don LaGreca]

Like, Tomlin didn't think that he of all people, if there is a situation With Dion. But Tomlin, that's what blows all of.

[Alan Hahn]

The conspiracy out of the world.

[Peter Rosenberg]

See that? See, that's the one team that doesn't have to explain it.

[Alan Hahn]

Right? Right.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Like the fact that they passed on the Steelers almost confirms that he shouldn't have been drafted high because they need a quarterback. They're a buttoned up organization that really knows, although they don't. The owner started the Rooney rule. So I mean, like, it does blow up a lot of conspiracy theories that they passed on on Shador. Right. That's the team where I don't. I'm sorry, I don't. I usually don't question the Steelers. They're not the perfect organization. Don't get me wrong.

[Don LaGreca]

No.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But they're usually a pretty buttoned up organization that kind of knows tries to.

[Alan Hahn]

Do the right thing.

[Peter Rosenberg]

There's. There's certain organizations in all sports that I've always said, if they're willing to trade a star, be careful getting that star because they wouldn't make him available unless something was wrong. Like some organizations, you. They. They don't know what they're doing. That's why they lose the star. When teams like the 49ers move on from a player. I'm good. Who has. They don't want them. I don't want. Of the Steelers are like that too.

[Don LaGreca]

Of the recent Steelers stars who left, the only one who really consistently went on to contribute is juju. Right. Juju's been pretty good. He was not as good as he.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Was in Pittsburgh, but.

[Alan Hahn]

But no one. You can't really say that. Anyone. I mean, Antonio Brown famously just complete implosion. Yeah. At Le'Veon Bell a disaster. Right. Who was the third B? Oh, Roethlisberger was the third B. That's right. There was the three B's. Right. That they had that one year that Fugazi 110 start who.

[Don LaGreca]

You know who broke that up? Commies. And by the way, I had a friend who today reach out to me.

[Alan Hahn]

Congratulations.

[Don LaGreca]

Thank you. It was the COVID I think that was a Wednesday. Remember that?

[Peter Rosenberg]

Oh, we were doing the show.

[Don LaGreca]

I think we broke it up. On a Wednesday.

[Alan Hahn]

Does it really count if it's Wednesday football?

[Peter Rosenberg]

What is this, the Mac Conference football?

[Alan Hahn]

Oh, my God.

[Don LaGreca]

A friend reached out to me from the D.C. area was like, hey, do you want to. Do you want to go in on tickets for the new stadium on season? Like splitting season tickets?

[Alan Hahn]

Okay.

[Don LaGreca]

And it's crazy because when they came up, I fought. My name finally came up in like 2010. I'd been on the waiting list for, you know, 15 years or whatever it was. And I was like, absolutely not. I am not getting season tickets to go to that dump. I'm not driving to the D.C. area six times a year, five times a year. But I got to tell you, with the renderings of that new building in D.C. guys, I think I'll probably do it.

[Peter Rosenberg]

It.

[Alan Hahn]

Yeah.

[Don LaGreca]

Four trips a year. Like once a month during the football season.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Come on.

[Don LaGreca]

It's to a beautiful new. And I don't know if you heard the rumor they. They're in the mix. People think they'll immediately be in the mix for the Super Bowl.

[Alan Hahn]

Oh, 100%.

[Don LaGreca]

It's the nation's capital with an indoor building.

[Alan Hahn]

Of course that's what you do.

[Don LaGreca]

Who is DC paying for it?

[Peter Rosenberg]

No, is. Is the owners paying?

[Don LaGreca]

They're paying for 2.7 billion of the four most.

[Alan Hahn]

Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

So that's what got the super bowl met live because it was handled by the jets and Giants.

[Don LaGreca]

What a great super bowl that was, too. What a time.

[Alan Hahn]

But it shows you if they were even going to have a Super bowl in New York without a dome. February.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah, exactly.

[Alan Hahn]

If they were going to do that, it just shows you when you get a new building, you're going to get a spot.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But it did also confirm the Goodell and the NFL are in cahoots with God. Because that week. Yeah, I remember that week. The. It was the Rangers, Islanders, Rangers, Devils and Yankee Stadium.

[Alan Hahn]

Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And like on that Wednesday night, it was Yank. It was the Rangers and the Islanders at Yankee Stadium. I was there and I almost froze to death. Like the shining. Like I was on the side was ice level. It was. It was. And by Sunday, it was like seven.

[Alan Hahn]

Yep.

[Don LaGreca]

And then if you want the reverse of that. Do you remember how bad All Star week was here for the NBA? It was the coldest week ever. Do you remember? It was.

[Peter Rosenberg]

What.

[Don LaGreca]

What year was it? It was 10 years ago. Because it was the same night. All Star Game was the same. Same night as SNL 40 and SNL just had SNL 50. So it was all star game 2015. Yeah, it might have been minus 30 every day of All Star.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And I think that Monday it snowed like it just. Goodell just made the call.

[Don LaGreca]

But the game was still pure hot garbage.

[Peter Rosenberg]

He's like, first of all, just want to Let you know, 35 million is nice. I'd like more. See if you can do something about that. God was negotiating his contract. And also, can you make it 70 and sunny in the super bowl in New York. But I wanted to honor my tease.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah, please.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Close tease.

[Alan Hahn]

Come on.

[Peter Rosenberg]

We'll do that.

[Don LaGreca]

No, do it.

[Alan Hahn]

You want to make it the next tease?

[Peter Rosenberg]

It's that time.

[Alan Hahn]

I mean, I'm holding on.

[Peter Rosenberg]

It's that time. We'll cross your legs because I'm gonna tell you. I got a question for Nick fans coming up and there's a bunch of.

[Don LaGreca]

I'm sorry I did that. I. I messed up your teeth.

[Peter Rosenberg]

No, but listen, derailing the show is kind of your thing.

[Don LaGreca]

Thank you.

[Peter Rosenberg]

As long as we get it back on the track.

[Don LaGreca]

We're back on the track.

[Alan Hahn]

Right?

[Peter Rosenberg]

Back on the tracks.

[Don LaGreca]

Come on. Now.

[Alan Hahn]

We have our on tracks, though. I think we were just on a road.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I think we're just hovering.

[Alan Hahn]

Got a little bumpy. Get back on the road. That's the way this is out. Yep.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Knicks Pistons chance to do something that hasn't happened since 1999. Monica McNutt coming up at 4:30. Larry Johnson at 5:30 on Don Ron and Don Ron. Don Ron and Steve on kroc. There are people out there all across.

[Don LaGreca]

The country pushing boundaries to grow the game of golf.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Like champion speed golfer Lauren Kupp, who.

[Don LaGreca]

Plays faster than anyone else. And Will Lowrey, whose work in the golf community inspires more kids to get into the game As a champion partner of the Masters, bank of America supports everyone determined to find out what's possible in golf and in life. What would you like the power to do? Bank of America? Bank of America NA member FDIC. Copyright 2025 bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.

[Alan Hahn]

This episode is brought to you by Peloton. Everyone has a reason to change.

[Don LaGreca]

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[Alan Hahn]

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[Don LaGreca]

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[Alan Hahn]

Find your push, Find your power.

[Don LaGreca]

Peloton. Visit1peloton.com Ryan Reynolds here from Mint Mobile.

[Alan Hahn]

I don't know if you knew this.

[Don LaGreca]

But anyone can get the same Premium Wireless for $15 a month plan that I've been enjoying. It's not just for celebrities.

[Alan Hahn]

So do like I did and have.

[Peter Rosenberg]

One of your assistant's assistants switch you to Mint Mobile today.

[Don LaGreca]

I'm told it's super easy to [e-mail].

[Alan Hahn]

Switch upfront payment of $45 for 3.

[Don LaGreca]

Month plan equivalent to $15 per month.

[Alan Hahn]

Required intro rate, first 3 months only.

[Don LaGreca]

Then full price plan options available.

[Alan Hahn]

Taxes and extra fee, full [e-mail] thanks for listening to the Don Han and Rosenberg podcast.

[Don LaGreca]

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.

[Peter Rosenberg]

So now it's time to honor the team.

[Don LaGreca]

And this is the song.

[Alan Hahn]

Donovan boy, you make it make me wait. I'm turning blue.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Well, listen.

[Alan Hahn]

Excuse me. Jeez.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Want some ice for it? Be like Raging Bull, sport. Down your pants.

[Don LaGreca]

Excuse me?

[Alan Hahn]

Why not?

[Don LaGreca]

Raging something. Go ahead.

[Peter Rosenberg]

All right. Tonight is going to be, I believe, a magical night for Nick fans. I mean, yeah, I like it. A series at home since 1999. And I'm taking a look at some of the people in this building right here at Stout on 33rd and 7th across from Madison Square Garden. We're going to be here till 6:30. Don Hahn and Rosa. Brad.

[Alan Hahn]

This guy's a pro.

[Peter Rosenberg]

They were not alive in 99. Or if they were alive, they don't have any memory of that victory. So you'll take to the streets and do it with pride tonight. And it should be fun and be safe. Are you okay with that being your 25 moment that you end up losing to the Celtics? Maybe get swept, maybe losing five? Are you okay with tonight being your moment? Because I think it's on the table, guys.

[Alan Hahn]

I mean, right away we're getting a head shake saying, no, I'm seeing some nose right there. We got a bunch of head shakes.

[Peter Rosenberg]

So, no, I'm not saying you should be happy about losing in the second round again. But are you going to throw away the whole season and everything that was accomplished this year because you lost to the Boston Celtics and she's nodding yes. And listen, I'm not going to get mad at you. It's your life. It's your feeling. But that's very Yankee of you, honestly. Right? I mean, honestly, I think you look at it and I think everybody that follows basketball are not saying the Knicks have no chance in the next round.

[Alan Hahn]

But yes, they are. Oh, no, no. They are absolutely seeing the Knicks have no chance in the second round.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Well, I think that's unfair.

[Alan Hahn]

That is common thinking with my colleagues at esp.

[Peter Rosenberg]

All right, fine. And you. And you said that it was going to, you know, it might be five games. I'm not saying that's the way to pick Alan. But, you know, I just think that. Don't, don't look at this moment as like some kind of gateway to something that might not be. I still think you can to look at this, relish in it, have fun with it, and if it ends up not being what you want, don't throw the entire season away because of it. It could be a learning experience. It's year one of this team. And I think that we start getting into that typical New York thing where we. We now put unrealistic expectations on something and then get disappointed where they don't live up to our artificial expectations. Allen just said, and he's in the know, there's nobody picking the Knicks to beat the Celtics. It's logical that a defending NBA champions you did not win a game against Boston, Cleveland or okc. And now you've decided that this win tonight, if it happens, is going to be Jennison this team to the conference final. And then if you believe they could beat the Celtics, then obviously you believe they could beat the Cavs. And if they could beat the Cavs, then obviously they could beat whoever comes out of the west, including okc. Right. So are you willing to go there and then say if that doesn't happen, that's a disappointment and how far are you willing to take it? Or just say, you know what? I haven't seen something that I haven't seen since 1999. Let's have fun, let's do it. Let's see what happens against Boston. But let's like live in the now. And I'm just kind of asking the question if that, that's all this season is, is it that bad?

[Alan Hahn]

What you're doing is, is you're talking like a dad. And everybody here, these are your children and you're telling them, carpe diem. You're telling them, enjoy this moment. Seize the day. Relish in right now. Rather than if the Knicks win tonight, don't be like, all right, well, we're supposed to do that. On to the next one. They better win the next round. You're saying to cherish every moment because this might be the one time you have to celebrate a season getting to the second round. What you're telling me is you are saying second round's house money. It sounds like you're saying this team's not supposed to do anything after this. They're supposed to win the first round. This is what they're supposed to do. Get to the second round, but beat the Celtics. Oh, no, no, no. Don't you dare dream about beating the Celtics.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Celtics.

[Alan Hahn]

So why don't you enjoy this? Enjoy what you got and don't get mad later and then realize I never even got to enjoy that win over the Pistons because I was too focused on they better beat the Celtics.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Well, and especially because.

[Alan Hahn]

Is that what you're saying?

[Peter Rosenberg]

That's what I'm saying. Because the expectation. Yes, I will grant you the expectation going into the season was third round or bust because nobody expected Cleveland to be the 1 seed. They figured it was gonna be Celtics 1, Knicks 2. The only way they can meet each other is in the conference final. And I'd be okay if we went to the conference final and lost to the Celtics. I'd be okay with that. But because Cleveland made an unexpected run and took the one seed, now you're having. You're forcing the Knicks to do something you were cool with them not doing in the third round because it's in the second round. That means now they've got to do it. How unfair is that? What does the round have anything to do with? It's the same team that you were willing to lose to in the conference final because they finally took that step for the first time in 2000, won a couple of rounds, and that would make you. That would pacify you. But because Cleveland mucked up the works, now you're putting unfair expectations on. It's the same Celtic team, but now because it's in the second round, you got to beat them.

[Alan Hahn]

Let me ask you a question. When they made the trades, Bridges first, which seemed like a coup, how did they get the Nets to actually trade this guy? Right.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah.

[Alan Hahn]

They get him, then they get crowned in town.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Sure.

[Alan Hahn]

Were these trades made to get to the second round?

[Peter Rosenberg]

No, no.

[Alan Hahn]

The expectation should be like. Despite the fact that you did not play well against Boston this year going into the season opener in Boston, was there anybody here going, well, we're not supposed to beat them anyway. No. Everybody's like, well, you got a guy in Bridges now. You got OG and Bridges. You got two guys that can take their wings out, and you got towns that can deal with Porzingis, and you've got Brunson and they've got Drew Holly that can try to guard him, but you can't guard him with one guy. So now all of a sudden, we're going to give them a problem. Yeah, that was what you thought you had. And then you played them and went, oh, my God, nowhere near this team.

[Peter Rosenberg]

No.

[Alan Hahn]

And then you played them again and went, oh, my God, we are nowhere near this team. And then the third time you played him, you're like, well, we had a chance but then Tatum was too good. Like every time you played them. But no one went into the season thinking what you're saying. No one did. And I don't even think they did as a franchise. You don't make moves like that just to be a second round team. Otherwise, why make the moves? That's what they were last year. So these moves were made with the intent to slay that dragon somehow, some way. And if they couldn't do it during the regular season, well, the hell they got to try to do it here.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But Bud, they didn't think they'd have to slay the dragon in the second round.

[Alan Hahn]

So what? Whenever you have to do it, you got to do it. It was the same thing when Patrick and company had to get a go up against Michael Jordan. Whether it was the second or the final, you got to beat him.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But I thought the feeling was, well, there were people that thought that they would have beaten the Celtics last year had they not gotten hurt.

[Don LaGreca]

A lot of people.

[Peter Rosenberg]

So of course those people thought that when the trade was made, now we're beating the Celtics. But logic told you this is going to get us to the conference final, and your anticipation was for the waiting Boston Celtics. Cleveland messed that up because nobody expected Cleveland to be, you know, one of the best teams in basketball and be the one seed.

[Alan Hahn]

No, no, one wasn't the.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I wasn't the idea that when they said, let's get to the conference final, that that would be a matchup with Boston in the third round and then let's see what happens.

[Alan Hahn]

If you were projecting it, the whole idea was that you'd be the 2 seed. You'd have to take care of either whether it's Cleveland or Indiana in the second round, and then you'd meet Boston.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Let's give them a go, and then it's all right.

[Alan Hahn]

Now we face them three rounds in and let's see how we measure up.

[Peter Rosenberg]

All right, now, let's see.

[Alan Hahn]

Now, you thought during the regular season it'd be two, two at our place, we'll go place. None of that happened.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But that changed your expectation on being able to beat the Celtics. What happened in the regular season, What I'm saying is you put third round on everybody's mind, but nobody was anticipating playing this team. You're thinking, all right, we'll beat the, the Pistons or the Bucks or the Pacers in the first round and we'll get to the second round and maybe we'll beat the Pacers or whatever and then. Or Cleveland, a team that we always smack around and then we'll take on the Boston Celtics. And then how here came Cleveland. Cleveland marches to the 1. See another team you couldn't touch during the regular season and now all of a sudden that matchup with Boston's in the second round.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah, but it's just not. I think you're asking people to be a way that human beings just aren't right. I just. This isn't like for example, this past year in the playoffs after Washington beat Detroit, I was like, oh, if we beat Philly and go to the super bowl, it's a dream come true. But I don't care what happens against Philly. Like, I'm not going to cry no matter what. But that's different. That came out of nowhere during the year. Like no one picked them. This is a team that you've been building with. And to Allen's point, you went out and got one of the most talented offensive players in the league in Karl Anthony Towns. They didn't add a nobody. This is a star, a true star. They added who years ago, prior to Brunson. I think many people would have considered getting the big star if they'd gotten Karl Anthony Towns at a certain. Now you have him, plus Brunson, who's turned out to be an absolute all world player. Then they get Bridges from Brooklyn and now they're all finally healthy. Everyone seems good to go. Well, you know, why not have expectations?

[Alan Hahn]

What you just said. By the way, let's take that into the next segment. Okay, they're fully healthy. I thought Tom Thibodeau runs his players into the ground.

[Don LaGreca]

Oh, here we go.

[Alan Hahn]

I thought I was told by all the experts that you can't play a team like this because they'll run out of gas in the postseason. Are you seeing teams? How about the Lakers? You played all your guys in the second half. How could you do that? They must have been exhausted at the end of the game. You know why you're tired at the end of the game. You're not conditioned for it. We have to have it. We have to have a conversation with the people about this.

[Don LaGreca]

I feel like Don.

[Alan Hahn]

Because I like I don't care just at this point. Win the tonight. It has to happen. I get it. But when does that narrative finally get killed? When? When do we finally destroy that narrative? Jalen Brunson plays too much. Who's the best fourth quarter player? Everybody yell it out. Who is the best fourth quarter player in the playoffs in the NBA? I can't hear you. Well, there's a lot of people in here and that's like only like three or four people saying, I'll give you one more chance.

[Don LaGreca]

Well, you would do. I'd say Brunson or JB though.

[Alan Hahn]

Like say his name.

[Don LaGreca]

Just say his name.

[Alan Hahn]

The best fourth quarter player in the NBA playoffs is say, there you go.

[Don LaGreca]

That's a better effort and never a more unbiased crowd than the one right here.

[Alan Hahn]

But it is facts.

[Don LaGreca]

It's facts. You read the stat yesterday and there's.

[Alan Hahn]

A guy that plays a ton. So we have to have a conversation. We'll do that. We don't take calls when we do these events because we want to reward the people that come to see us. So we do have a microphone for you and we will talk to you all you who have questions about tonight, the future, what Don said. And don't forget Rosenberg's a Celtics fan. You want to let him have it? Step right up.

[Don LaGreca]

What did I do? We're not even playing it.

[Alan Hahn]

And Monica Manutt is joining us at 4:30 here at Stout.

[Don LaGreca]

She said she's, by the way, she's all ready to go.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I love it. She has, she always is ready to go.

[Don LaGreca]

Tuesday now here's what I have for you guys. I want to talk to you guys about Amazon Pickup and what it could do for you. Now, first and foremost, you're thinking Amazon. I order from Amazon all the time. I'm watching prime video. Amazon's a daily part of my life. So what is Amazon pickup? Well, Amazon pickup allows you to send your orders to a secure pickup location that you can choose. So when delivery to your home or apartment isn't ideal, packages go directly to a convenient pickup location like an Amazon locker, a counter between work and a newborn at home. My schedule is insane and Amazon pickup gives me peace of mind and it lets me pick up packages on my own time. So order online and at checkout. Simply select the pickup location that works best for you. When your package arrives, you get a delivery confirmation email that notifies you that your package is ready with your pickup instructions. Great for when you're out and about. All right. Amazon Pickups a secure and convenient delivery solution to pick up your Amazon packages at no additional cost. Head to Amazon.com pickup MVP to learn more.

[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 880 ESPN, the ESPN New York app and your smart speakers.