Don, Hahn & Rosenberg Podcast Summary
Episode: Hour 2: Tyler Murray & Fraud Alert Friday
Release Date: May 23, 2025
Introduction
In this episode of the Don, Hahn & Rosenberg podcast, hosts Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg delve into the intense NBA playoff series between the New York Knicks and the Indiana Pacers. The discussion is enriched by a special guest appearance from Tyler Murray, the Knicks' new play-by-play broadcaster. Additionally, the hosts introduce their recurring segment, Fraud Alert Friday, which engages listeners through interactive conversations and humorous takes on fan experiences.
Interview with Tyler Murray
Timestamp: [03:21]
Alan Hahn introduces Tyler Murray, praising his recent performance:
“We've been throwing flowers at this guy, and rightly so, all year long, and he absolutely nailed the Halliburton 2.”
Tyler Murray shares his excitement and insights as a first-year broadcaster:
“It helps a little bit that I don't necessarily have a professional point of reference, so I'm not necessarily losing my mind. We're just kind of taking it one step at a time.”
[Timestamp: 05:11]
Discussion Highlights:
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Handling High-Stakes Moments: Tyler discusses his approach to calling high-pressure situations, emphasizing staying calm and relying on his co-host, Monica McNutt, for perspective.
“You just keep it simple, that gives you a good foundation where you don't have to overthink things.”
[05:11] -
Knicks vs. Pacers Series Insights: Tyler analyzes the Knicks' strategy and the Pacers' resilience, noting the importance of key players like Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns.
“They don't have an answer for Brunson, they don't have an answer for Towns.”
[08:41] -
Player Fatigue and Team Depth: The conversation touches on the impact of player minutes and team rotations, with Tyler highlighting the Knicks' endurance compared to the Pacers.
“The Knicks have been playing 40 minutes all year. They should be ready to roll.”
[10:09] -
Broadcasting Challenges: Tyler reflects on the challenges of his rookie season, balancing enthusiasm with professionalism during pivotal game moments.
“It's a very first season. So what was that like for you to call, when you think about this is something unlike anything anybody has ever seen.”
[04:17]
Notable Quote:
“As long as the Knicks are taking it and I still got a lot of faith, I think it's going to be a long series and I'll take the Knicks against anybody right now.”
— Tyler Murray
[14:28]
Game Analysis: Knicks vs. Pacers
Timestamp: [02:25]
Alan Hahn and Peter Rosenberg discuss the aftermath of Game One, highlighting both the Knicks' strong performances and the controversial ending that overshadowed their victories.
Key Points:
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Jalen Brunson’s Performance: Brunson’s outstanding statistics are acknowledged, yet critics focus on the game’s abrupt conclusion.
“Jalen Brunson had a 43-point performance, his eighth 40-point performance of the playoffs, which is the most in franchise history.”
[08:41] -
Defense and Strategy: The hosts debate Coach Tom Thibodeau’s strategies, especially his decisions to prioritize offensive play over defensive stability during critical moments.
“It might be a case of, you know, I don't know what I don't know.”
[07:08] -
Player Matchups: The effectiveness of player matchups, particularly how the Pacers are handling Knicks’ key players like Towns and Brunson, is a focal point.
“The only surprising part was that the Knicks enabled them to hang around.”
[06:17]
Notable Quote:
“Defensively, the starting five was not good to start the game. And when they were on the court together as a unit, they were not great defensively.”
— Alan Hahn
[11:10]
Fraud Alert Friday Segment
Timestamp: [27:01]
The Fraud Alert Friday segment kicks off with humorous interactions and listener submissions questioning the authenticity of their fan loyalties.
Listener Interactions:
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Jorge’s Dilemma: A listener named Jorge contemplates his shifting basketball fandom, questioning if his renewed support for the Knicks after years of following other teams makes him a "fraud."
“Am I a fraud? Sincerely, Jorge or George in Connecticut.”
[27:39] -
Sean’s Confession: Another listener shares his long-term allegiance to the Cleveland Cavaliers and his brief, questionable stint with the Knicks, seeking validation on whether his basketball fandom qualifies as fraudulent.
“Am I a fraud for choosing to support a non-local team?”
[38:16]
Hosts’ Responses:
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Peter Rosenberg humorously declares the listeners as "frauds" while acknowledging their genuine experiences and changing loyalties.
“I'm a fraud with a capital F.”
[26:57] -
Alan Hahn and Anthony join in the playful banter, emphasizing the lighthearted nature of the segment while addressing genuine listener concerns.
“It's fraudulent behavior, but we're going to let him go.”
[31:31]
Notable Quote:
“Am I a fraud? By the letter of the law, technically yes, but it does seem genuine.”
— Peter Rosenberg
[30:18]
Conclusion
The episode wraps up with light-hearted banter, calls to action for listeners to engage with upcoming games, and a reminder of the next Fraud Alert Friday. The hosts emphasize the importance of staying connected through various platforms and encourage listener participation.
Final Thoughts:
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Promotion of Mental Health Awareness: Anthony highlights BetterHelp's services, aligning with Mental Health Awareness Month, and underscores the show's commitment to supporting listeners' well-being.
“We're all better with help.”
[50:41] -
Upcoming Coverage: The hosts tease their extensive pre-game and post-game coverage on MSG Networks and ESPN New York, ensuring listeners are informed and engaged throughout the playoff series.
“We'll be doing full one-hour pregame and postgame shows.”
[15:37]
Notable Quote:
“This is the Dime on Han at Rosenberg podcast.”
— Don La Greca
[00:30]
Key Takeaways
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Tyler Murray’s Fresh Perspective: As a new broadcaster, Tyler brings a grounded and analytical approach to Knicks' game commentary, earning praise from the hosts.
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Knicks vs. Pacers Dynamics: The series showcases strategic gameplay, player endurance, and pivotal moments that could define the outcome.
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Engaging Community Segments: Fraud Alert Friday fosters interactive and entertaining discussions, strengthening listener engagement and loyalty.
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Holistic Content Approach: Balancing in-depth sports analysis with humor and community interaction, the podcast remains a comprehensive source for ESPN New York and New Jersey sports fans.
For those who haven't listened: This episode offers a compelling mix of expert analysis, insider insights from a new broadcaster, and engaging community interactions, making it a must-listen for Knicks enthusiasts and sports aficionados alike.