Podcast Summary: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg – Hour 3: Bernard King Joins the Show

Release Date: April 18, 2025

In the third hour of the Don, Hahn & Rosenberg podcast, hosted by ESPN New York legends Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg, the conversation centers around the New York Knicks' upcoming playoff series against the Detroit Pistons. The episode features a special guest appearance by NBA Hall of Famer Bernard King, who provides deep insights into the current state of the Knicks, playoff strategies, and reflections on his illustrious career.

1. Kickoff to the Playoffs

The episode kicks off with Peter Rosenberg expressing the heightened excitement as the playoffs approach. He nostalgically recalls the last time the Knicks faced the Pistons in the early '90s, marking the end of the Bad Boys era and highlighting the fierce competition that defined those series.

Peter Rosenberg [00:34]:
"This is what the playoffs feel like... You can start to really get into it."

Alan Hahn concurs, noting the improved weather signaling the onset of playoff fever, which adds to the anticipation.

2. Bernard King on the Knicks' Prospects

Bernard King joins the discussion to analyze the current Knicks roster and their prospects against a young and talented Pistons team led by Cade Cunningham. He underscores the importance of Karl-Anthony Towns as a versatile big man whose shooting extends the floor, benefiting guards like Jalen Brunson.

Bernard King [05:00]:
"Karl Anthony Towns is really key. Best shooting big man in the game... which really allows Jalen Brunson to get into the paint and execute his offensive moves."

King addresses concerns about the Pistons having won three out of four regular-season meetings by emphasizing the difference in playoff intensity and experience.

Bernard King [05:51]:
"Detroit is a very young team. They lack playoff experience. They won 14 games last year and obviously they played outstanding basketball this year. But they don't have the experience that the Knicks have."

He highlights the Knicks' readiness to handle the increased physicality of playoff basketball, a trait he deeply values from his own playing days.

3. The Rise of Jalen Brunson

A significant portion of the conversation centers on Jalen Brunson's exceptional performance. Peter Rosenberg draws parallels between Brunson and Bernard King himself, both known for their scoring prowess and strategic play.

Peter Rosenberg [08:47]:
"Jalen Brunson, in 24 playoff games with the Knicks, is averaging 30 points a game. There's only one other human being in the history of the Knicks to average more points per game in the playoffs. That, of course, would be you."

King praises Brunson's ability to control defenses and create scoring opportunities, likening his basketball IQ to a game of chess.

Bernard King [10:57]:
"Jalen is not the most athletic player that you see, but he has the ability to get any shot that he wants because he knows how to control the defense to get to the spot that he wants."

He also lauds Brunson's leadership and grit, traits that endear him to Knicks fans and elevate the team's overall performance.

4. Reflections on the 1984 Playoff Series

Bernard King delves into his memories of the intense 1984 playoff series against the Pistons, recounting the physical and mental challenges he faced, including playing through injuries.

Bernard King [13:04]:
"I played with two dislocated fingers. Every time I caught the ball, I was in pain... But we're in the playoffs, and when your teammates count on you, you have to deliver."

He narrates a pivotal moment in Game 5 where he took control of the play, leading to a decisive basket that secured the game for the Knicks.

Bernard King [15:58]:
"He said, come on and bring it. And so I took the ball, drove right, put it between the legs, drove two dribbles to the left, faded nothing but net."

King emphasizes the collective effort and resilience that defined that series, lessons he believes are applicable to the current Knicks team.

5. Challenges Ahead: Boston Series and High Stakes

The conversation shifts to the aftermath of a grueling first-round series and its implications for the Knicks' second-round matchup against Boston. King notes the physical toll of the Pistons series, which left the Knicks exhausted compared to the rested Celtics.

Bernard King [17:28]:
"We did not think of it as being a disadvantage mentally, but it was because that series... we're exhausted. Boston was rested, they came out fired up and they were ready for their championship team."

He underscores the importance of the Knicks preparing to dominate early against the Pistons to conserve energy for the subsequent series.

6. Carmelo Anthony and the Hall of Fame

Towards the latter part of the episode, Bernard King reflects on Carmelo Anthony's induction into the Hall of Fame, highlighting their mentor-mentee relationship.

Bernard King [19:51]:
"Carmelo idolized me... When he was nominated for the Hall of Fame, I said, 'You're in the hall of fame.' Congratulations to you. You're a great player and you've diversified yourself off the court."

King expresses pride in seeing Anthony achieve such honors, reinforcing the lasting impact of his legacy on future generations.

7. Transition to Other Sports: Yankees and Boston Bruins

The latter segments of the podcast transition to discussions about other sports, including updates on the Yankees' lineup and Jazz Chisholm's behavioral issues. Alan Hahn and Peter Rosenberg debate the Yankees' tolerance for player conduct, comparing it to historical standards within the organization.

Alan Hahn [28:16]:
"This is not the Yankee way... You just can't condone that kind of behavior."

The hosts also delve into Stanley Cup playoff predictions, with Hahn sharing his bold pick of the Toronto Maple Leafs over the Winnipeg Jets, adding a layer of excitement for hockey fans.

8. Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

As the episode wraps up, Bernard King emphasizes the urgency for the Knicks to elevate their game, drawing from his experiences and the current team's dynamics.

Bernard King [45:31]:
"I just think right now with the talent that the Knicks have, I think the urgency is there."

The hosts encourage listeners to engage with the podcast's various segments and upcoming events, maintaining the show's collaborative and interactive spirit.

Key Takeaways:

• Knicks Playoff Strategy: Emphasis on leveraging Karl-Anthony Towns' shooting and Jalen Brunson's leadership to overcome the Pistons.

• Brunson's Performance: Highlighted as a cornerstone of the Knicks' offense, drawing comparisons to Bernard King's legendary scoring ability.

• Historical Insights: Bernard King's reflections on past playoff series provide valuable lessons for the current team.

• Team Dynamics: Importance of leadership, grit, and collective effort in navigating the playoffs.

• Broader Sports Discussions: Touchpoints on MLB's Yankees and NHL's Stanley Cup offer a comprehensive sports perspective.

This episode offers a rich blend of current playoff analysis, historical reflections, and broader sports discussions, making it an engaging listen for fans eager to gain deeper insights into the Knicks' postseason journey and beyond.