Don, Hahn & Rosenberg Podcast – Episode: Hour 2: Knicks Concern & Fraud Alert Friday

Release Date: May 2, 2025

Introduction

In this lively episode of the "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" podcast, hosts Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg delve into the New York Knicks' recent performance, their upcoming playoff series against the Boston Celtics, and engage listeners with their signature segment, "Fraud Alert Friday." Combining insightful sports analysis with humorous fan interactions, the trio offers a comprehensive and entertaining discussion for sports enthusiasts.

Knicks Performance Analysis

The episode kicks off with Peter Rosenberg celebrating the Knicks' latest victory:

Peter Rosenberg ([00:14]): "Knicks win. Knicks win. The Knicks win. And will face the Celtics now starting on Monday, and a best of seven."

However, beneath the celebration lies concern about the team's offensive strategy. Peter critiques the Knicks' inconsistency on offense, especially when key players underperform:

Peter Rosenberg ([01:50]): "This is not a good offense. There are just so many periods, Allen, where they cannot get any offense that looks like anything."

Alan Hahn responds by contextualizing the Knicks' struggles against a strong defensive team like the Pistons:

Alan Hahn ([02:15]): "This is a Pistons team that in the second half of the season was one of the top five defenses in the league... They know what you're running. Do you execute better than they can?"

Discussion highlights include the Knicks' offensive efficiency during the regular season versus their playoff performance. Despite finishing fifth in offensive rating and being top 10 in scoring, the Knicks falter against elite defenses:

Alan Hahn ([04:18]): "Open threes are critical and when you miss them, they're even more critical because you don't get a lot of them in the playoffs."

Peter adds concerns about turnovers and bench depth:

Alan Hahn ([06:34]): "The Knicks really had a bench issue in this game... They have to figure out how they run their offense and not allow Carl Anthony Towns to completely disappear."

The hosts also discuss specific player performances and the need for strategic adjustments against the Celtics:

Alan Hahn ([12:14]): "It's about shot making and I know that sounds like a cop out, but I'm telling you, open threes are critical."

Fraud Alert Friday: Assessing Fan Loyalty

Transitioning from the Knicks' performance, the podcast enters the humorous "Fraud Alert Friday" segment, where the hosts evaluate whether certain fan behaviors qualify as "fraudulent." This segment features real-time interactions with listeners, blending sports talk with playful banter.

Listener Interactions:

1. David's Call ([09:04]): David commends Peter for maintaining gentlemanly behavior despite being a Celtics fan.

   David: "Peter, I want to give you your flowers because you're a gentleman."

2. Tom's Debate ([16:45]): Tom challenges Alan's alleged favoritism towards the Celtics, sparking a spirited exchange about fan loyalty.

   Tom: "You just accused Peter of being a Homer with the Boston Celtics."

3. Michael Grodsky's Inquiry ([26:13]): Michael questions whether wearing a "Fanatic" shirt while being a Mets fan constitutes fraudulent behavior.

   Michael: "So basically, it's impossible to find one. Am I a fraud for loving the Fanatic while being a Mets fan?"

Hosts' Responses:

• Peter Rosenberg ([15:57]): "Sometimes there is something that happens that is bigger than your team allegiance. And I think when those moments happen, I can't call that a fraud."

• Alan Hahn ([31:52]): "He is a five. That's a five. Five alarm fire, no doubt."

The hosts introduce the "Wahlberg scale of fraudulence," humorously rating fans' loyalty based on their adherence to team allegiance.

Notable Quotes

• Peter Rosenberg on Knicks' Offensive Issues ([01:50]):

  "This is not a good offense. There are just so many periods, Allen, where they cannot get any offense that looks like anything."

• Alan Hahn on Defensive Challenges ([02:15]):

  "This is a Pistons team that in the second half of the season was one of the top five defenses in the league... They know what you're running. Do you execute better than they can?"

• Peter Rosenberg on Fraudulent Behavior ([15:57]):

  "Sometimes there is something that happens that is bigger than your team allegiance. And I think when those moments happen, I can't call that a fraud."

• Alan Hahn on Fan Consistency ([36:52]):

  "The fraud behavior, the first evidence of it is the lack of consistency and commitment."

Conclusion

The "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" podcast masterfully balances in-depth sports analysis with entertaining fan interactions. By dissecting the New York Knicks' playoff challenges and engaging listeners through the playful "Fraud Alert Friday" segment, the hosts deliver a compelling episode that caters to both passionate fans and casual listeners. Their blend of humor, insight, and genuine discussion ensures a rich and engaging listening experience.

For those who missed the episode, subscribing to the podcast on your preferred platform ensures you stay updated on all things New York sports and more.