Don, Hahn & Rosenberg Podcast Summary: Hour 2 - Knicks, NFL Binge & Baseball

Release Date: June 2, 2025

In this engaging and in-depth episode of the Don, Hahn & Rosenberg podcast, hosts Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg delve into a variety of sports topics, primarily focusing on the New York Knicks, the NFL landscape, and recent developments in Major League Baseball. The conversation is marked by insightful analyses, spirited debates, and notable listener interactions, providing a comprehensive overview for both avid fans and casual listeners.

I. Knicks Post-Mortem and Future Prospects

The episode kicks off with a thorough examination of the New York Knicks' recent season and their performance trajectory.

• Don Hahn sets the stage by reflecting on the Knicks' journey:
  "[00:44] Don Hahn: ...instead of previewing a game seven, we're talking about Knicks post mortem and what needs to be done."

• Alan Hahn underscores the significance of the Knicks' current run and the potential to attract key players:
  "[01:30] Alan Hahn: ...you can help them, I can put them over the top... That's generally what happens."

• Don Hahn comments on the transformation of the Knicks' reputation, highlighting the leadership of Leon Rose and the commitment of players like Julius Randle Brunson:
  "[02:32] Don Hahn: ...now you've changed that image. I think that that's hard to do."

The hosts discuss the financial and strategic challenges the Knicks face in the offseason, particularly concerning the second apron hard cap and the necessity for players to take pay cuts to maintain flexibility. Alan Hahn emphasizes the delicate balance required to make effective trades without exceeding salary caps:
"[03:26] Alan Hahn: ...but the wrong moves could put them over it. And that means you're locked in on certain way."

II. Listener Interactions: Evaluating the Knicks' Future Moves

Listeners actively participate in the discussion, providing valuable perspectives on the Knicks' roster and strategy.

• A caller expresses frustration over the Knicks' reliance on key players like Kemba Walker and Karl-Anthony Towns, advocating for increased facilitation:
  "[08:15] Caller: ...I wish we could just take everything he is and take just 10% of who he is to be more of a facilitator."

• Alan Hahn acknowledges the need for trust in the team's management and the importance of not making hasty decisions:
  "[09:20] Alan Hahn: ...there's a lot of things that you can look out for, but I guarantee you they're going to look at all of it."

• Don Hahn likens team building to playing Jenga, emphasizing the fragile nature of roster adjustments:
  "[10:10] Alan Hahn: ...team building is like playing Jenga. That wrong piece comes out, the whole thing comes down."

III. NFL Binge: Quarterback Dynamics and Team Strategies

Transitioning to American football, the hosts explore the evolving quarterback landscape, particularly focusing on emerging talents and managerial decisions.

• Spike offers a bold suggestion on acquiring Giannis Antetokounmpo for the Knicks, showcasing the intersection of NBA and NFL discussions:
  "[11:30] Spike: ...if Giannis wants to come to the Knicks, I know he has a place in the city and he's going to take his brother with him."

• The conversation shifts to the Cleveland Browns and their quarterback situation, with Alan Hahn expressing skepticism about the media's focus:
  "[31:10] Don Hahn: ...why are we spending so much time talking about the Cleveland Browns quarterback?"

• Peter Rosenberg highlights the challenges faced by quarterbacks like Shador Sanders, discussing the impact of Deion Sanders and the complexities of team dynamics:
  "[36:39] Don Hahn: He did drop for a reason."

IV. Baseball Update: Yankees and Mets

The podcast delves into the current state of Major League Baseball, providing updates on the Yankees and Mets' performances.

• Don Hahn reflects on the Yankees' recent performance in the World Series, critiquing their bullpen and overall strategy:
  "[43:35] Don Hahn: ...the bullpen not being great. Leiter had been really good. Wasn't very good in that game either."

• Alan Hahn discusses the Mets' ascent to first place and their competition with the Phillies, highlighting key victories:
  "[45:09] Don Hahn: ...the Mets have Mercedes Benz moved back into first place."

• The hosts analyze Aaron Judge's outstanding season, debating his potential MVP candidacy and the implications for the Yankees' championship aspirations:
  "[52:21] Don Hahn: ...he's the best player in baseball. I, I need a ring. Like, how much more can he impress you?"

V. Behind the Scenes: Host Banter and Personal Anecdotes

Interspersed throughout the episode are light-hearted exchanges and personal stories, enriching the conversational tone.

• Don Hahn, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg engage in playful banter about listening to postgame shows and managing their podcast dynamics, adding a relatable layer to the discussion.

• A memorable moment includes Don Hahn discussing the accidental dropping of his phone during a call:
  "[12:58] Don Hahn: I'm going to kill somebody."
  This leads to a humorous and thoughtful conversation about managing on-air mistakes and maintaining professionalism.

• The hosts also share anecdotes about recommending movies to each other and reflecting on past experiences with sports fandom, such as John McEnroe's antics:
  "[21:11] Don Hahn: I watched it once, and I'd like, this is really good. And it's time. Because it's the Giants."

VI. Conclusion and Looking Ahead

As the episode wraps up, the hosts preview upcoming topics and events, including the postseason implications for the Yankees and Mets, and teasing future discussions on the Knicks and NFL.

• Don Hahn emphasizes the continuous need for the Knicks to build upon their current success:
  "[49:56] Don Hahn: ...when we get back to the Knicks, that's the problem with losing late in the playoffs is getting back next season."

• Alan Hahn and Peter Rosenberg agree on the importance of maintaining momentum and addressing key weaknesses to secure future championships:
  "[52:46] Don Hahn: ...What are you going to do if you get back there and who you face it and are you clearly better than who you might face?"

This episode of Don, Hahn & Rosenberg offers a multifaceted exploration of major sports narratives, enriched by the hosts' deep knowledge and engaging interactions. Whether dissecting the Knicks' strategic moves, analyzing the NFL's quarterback evolutions, or debating baseball's star performances, listeners are provided with a nuanced and entertaining perspective on the current sports landscape.