Podcast Title: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg
Episode: Hour 2: Stanley Cup & Thursday Rewrite
Release Date: June 5, 2025

Introduction

In this engaging episode of Don, Hahn & Rosenberg, hosts Don LaGreca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg delve deep into the thrilling conclusion of Game One of the Stanley Cup Finals, explore intriguing hypothetical scenarios in baseball history, and discuss upcoming events that excite New York sports fans. Skipping over the promotional segments, the trio delivers insightful commentary, lively banter, and expert analysis that captivates both avid sports enthusiasts and casual listeners alike.

Stanley Cup Final Game One Recap

The episode kicks off with a comprehensive breakdown of last night's exhilarating Game One of the Stanley Cup Finals. Don LaGreca and Alan Hahn provide a play-by-play analysis, highlighting the dramatic turnaround and remarkable performances that defined the game.

Key Highlights:

• Edmonton's Comeback: The Oilers showcased resilience by overcoming a 3-1 deficit to force overtime. Don remarks, “[...] it's as good a step one to getting there as you could have asked for” ([04:00] Don LaGreca).

• Connor McDavid's Prowess: Both hosts laud McDavid's exceptional skills. Alan mentions, “McDavid just seems like a higher skilled player than I think I've ever really seen” ([14:07] Alan Hahn), while Don parallels McDavid to hockey legends, stating, “it's like putting a lot of the greats all put into one” ([16:13] Don LaGreca).

• Historic Playoff Statistics: Don shares a fascinating stat, “Connor McDavid now assisted on the overtime goal. 71st time that Dry Seidel and McDavid have factored in the same goal of their playoff careers together” ([05:12] Don LaGreca), emphasizing the duo's synergy on the ice.

Notable Quotes:

• Alan Hahn: “McDavid's got it all, man. Like, even Crosby, Crosby is not as big. He's so skilled and his timing's terrific” ([14:34] Alan Hahn).

• Don LaGreca: “He's a beast early in this game. And it wasn't just on the offensive. I also saw an urgency and back checking and urgency with him in the defensive zone that you don't often get from offensive stars” ([08:42] Don LaGreca).

Player Analysis: Connor McDavid vs. Hockey Legends

A significant portion of the discussion centers around Connor McDavid's standing among hockey greats. Don and Alan passionately debate his ranking, comparing his skills to legends like Wayne Gretzky and Mario Lemieux.

Insights:

• Comparative Skills: Alan asserts, “Gretzky wasn't particularly fast. He wasn't strong. He was just exceptionally smart” ([14:32] Alan Hahn), contrasting this with McDavid's unparalleled speed and skill.

• Ultimate Player: Don elaborates, “He's like what LeBron James in his prime was in the NBA. The perfect player” ([16:52] Don LaGreca), underscoring McDavid's comprehensive abilities on the ice.

Hypothetical Scenario: Dodgers Stay in Brooklyn

Shifting gears, the hosts embark on a captivating alternate history segment titled "Thursday Rewrite." They hypothetically explore what the landscape of New York sports—and MLB in general—might look like if the Brooklyn Dodgers had remained in Brooklyn.

Discussion Points:

• Dodger Dome Concept: Don envisions a “Dodger Dome” in Brooklyn, speculating its impact on other sports teams like the New York Jets. “[...] they never move to Jersey. They're always going to be playing in, I guess Queens or Brooklyn in the dome where the Dodgers play multi-purpose” ([27:14] Don LaGreca).

• Impact on the Mets: The absence of the Mets is a central theme. Don posits, “The Mets never happened. Instead, you have the Dodgers and the Yankees in the same town, which you still have today” ([26:00] Don LaGreca).

Notable Quotes:

• Alan Hahn: “But it wouldn't have been the same. Everything would have probably stayed the same” ([27:03] Alan Hahn).

• Don LaGreca: “And the Dodger history when it comes to whatever their teams were over the years in LA, you could argue it'd be the same franchise. Nothing changed” ([27:11] Don LaGreca).

Upcoming Events: Fanatics Fest

Towards the latter part of the episode, the hosts enthusiastically discuss the upcoming Fanatics Fest, a festival celebrating sports fandom. They humorously fantasize about the lineup, including both current and legendary athletes.

Highlights:

• Imaginary Lineup: The trio jokingly suggests appearances by figures like Benny Agbayani, Alex Rodriguez, and even iconic sports personalities such as Joe Namath.

• Engagement with Listeners: They encourage listeners to participate and imagine a vibrant, star-studded event that bridges past and present sports icons.

Notable Quotes:

• Michael Kay: “We can get a jet. We just don't know which jet” ([34:28] Michael Kay), playfully referring to potential guest appearances.

• Don LaGreca: “You've heard of Fanatics Fest? ESPN New York's Fest? Starring Ed Husbadon” ([44:10] Don LaGreca), injecting humor into the discussion.

Miscellaneous Discussions

Interwoven with the primary topics are lighter moments and humorous exchanges that showcase the hosts' camaraderie and chemistry.

• Temperature Taking Joke: A playful segment where Michael Kay jokes about taking the Yankees' temperature “rectally” ([02:05] Michael Kay), leading to laughter and good-natured teasing among the hosts.

• Listener Interaction: Don interacts with a listener named Kaylin from Philadelphia addressing local incidents, adding a community touch to the conversation ([13:12] Don LaGreca).

Conclusion

Don, Hahn & Rosenberg successfully blend in-depth sports analysis with entertaining banter, providing listeners with both information and amusement. From dissecting the intricacies of the Stanley Cup Finals to reimagining baseball history, the hosts deliver a multifaceted episode that resonates with New York's passionate sports community.

Final Thoughts:

• The combination of expert insights and engaging dialogue makes this episode a must-listen for fans eager to stay informed and entertained.
• The hosts' ability to seamlessly transition between serious analysis and lighthearted fun underscores the dynamic nature of the show.

Listeners can catch more of Don LaGreca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg weekday afternoons starting at 3 on 880 ESPN, the ESPN New York app, and their smart speakers.