Don, Hahn & Rosenberg Podcast Summary

Title: Hour 2: Dave Maloney & Thursday Rewrite
Release Date: July 3, 2025
Hosts: Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, Peter Rosenberg
Guest: Dave Maloney, New York Rangers Broadcaster

1. Introduction of Guest Dave Maloney and the Shoulder Check Showcase

The episode welcomes Dave Maloney, a prominent broadcaster for the New York Rangers, who joins Don and Alan to discuss an important charitable initiative. The conversation begins around [00:41], with Alan Hahn expressing enthusiasm for the upcoming event:

Alan Rosenberg [02:02]: "It's been a terrific story from the get-go, guys. ... they're putting on a show on July 24th at Terry Connors Arena in Stamford."

2. Discussion on Mental Health in Sports

A significant portion of the episode centers on mental health awareness within the sports community, sparked by a tragic event. Alan delves into the origins of the Shoulder Check Showcase, founded in memory of Hayden Thornson, a young netminder who tragically took his own life.

Alan Rosenberg [02:13]: "...the Thorson family has taken on an initiative to continue to build awareness to mental health, teenage mental health."

Dave emphasizes the cultural shift in sports regarding mental health, highlighting the importance of support over stigmatization.

Dave Maloney [03:42]: "To remind people with it and to have hockey involved... checking in on somebody's mental health is not considered a weakness."

Alan adds that the movement has gained substantial traction, with involvement from the NHL and NHLPA, fostering a supportive environment for athletes and fans alike.

Alan Rosenberg [04:37]: "Society becomes a little more sympathetic... everybody has a right to health and happiness."

3. The Shoulder Check Showcase Event Details

The hosts provide comprehensive details about the Shoulder Check Showcase, scheduled for July 24th at Terry Connors Ice Rink in Stamford, Connecticut. Activities include:

• 4:00 PM: Doors open with activities and food
• 6:00 PM: Skills showcase begins
• 6:30 PM: Puck drop for the third annual event

Notable NHL players attending the event include Chris Kreider, Brett Pesci, Frank Vetrano, and Kevin Hayes.

Dave Maloney [16:43]: "It's very easy for anybody to go to shouldercheck.org... all the information you possibly need."

4. Team Changes and Hockey Updates

Transitioning from the charity discussion, the podcast delves into recent changes within the New York Rangers organization. Alan and Dave analyze key player movements and coaching strategies to enhance the team's performance.

Chris Kreider's Move:

Alan Rosenberg [06:36]: "There's no question, absolutely no question, as Chris Kreider will always be remembered as a New York Ranger."

Gabriel Copov’s Signing:

Alan Rosenberg [08:27]: "He was the top defenseman out there... the Rangers have to calm down a little bit in their own end."

Coaching with Mike Sullivan:

Alan Rosenberg [11:48]: "Mike Sullivan brings the pedigree... he's a winner... he spoke about depth being key."

The discussion highlights the strategic signings aimed at strengthening the Rangers' lineup and the potential impact of new coaching philosophies on the upcoming season.

5. Thursday Rewrite: 40th Anniversary of "Back to the Future"

Shifting gears, the podcast introduces a special segment called "Thursday Rewrite", celebrating the 40th anniversary of the iconic film "Back to the Future." Hosts and callers engage in a deep dive into alternative plot scenarios, examining potential inconsistencies and unanswered questions from the movie.

Dave Maloney [23:07]: "Thursday rewrites going to ask this simple question. What if Doc never taped back together the letter he tore up..."

6. Audience Interaction and Theories on "Back to the Future"

Audience participation intensifies as listeners contribute theories about the film's plot, particularly focusing on the fate of the terrorists and the implications of time travel mechanics depicted in the movie. The discussion becomes a lively debate on logical gaps and creative possibilities for future storylines.

Caller [25:15]: "But you're taking the leap that they were conscious. They freaked out and they escaped."

Listener [43:00]: "The second Marty goes back, that timeline in 1985 doesn't exist. So the Libyans, they disappear. It's done."

The segment showcases the hosts' and listeners' enthusiasm for blending pop culture with analytical thinking, providing an entertaining exploration of beloved cinematic lore.

Conclusion

The episode of Don, Hahn & Rosenberg effectively balances serious discussions on mental health in sports with lighthearted, nostalgic conversations about classic movies. Through guest insights and active listener engagement, the hosts foster a community-oriented dialogue that resonates with both sports enthusiasts and pop culture aficionados.

Key Takeaways:

• Shoulder Check Showcase: A pivotal event promoting mental health awareness, rooted in community and sports.
• Team Strategy: Insightful analysis of the New York Rangers' recent player movements and coaching changes aiming to bolster team performance.
• Pop Culture Fun: Engaging "Thursday Rewrite" segment that invites listeners to rethink and theorize about "Back to the Future," celebrating its enduring legacy.

Notable Quotes:

• Alan Rosenberg [02:02]: "It's been a terrific story from the get-go... terrific story."
• Dave Maloney [03:42]: "Checking in on somebody's mental health is not considered a weakness."
• Alan Rosenberg [11:48]: "Mike Sullivan brings the pedigree... he's a winner."

Event Details:

• Shoulder Check Showcase
  • Date: July 24, 2025
  • Time: Doors open at 4:00 PM; puck drop at 6:30 PM
  • Location: Terry Connors Ice Rink, Stamford, Connecticut
  • Website: shouldercheck.org

For more insights and engaging discussions, subscribe to the Don, Hahn & Rosenberg podcast on ESPN New York platforms.