Don, Hahn & Rosenberg Podcast: Hour 3 – John Starks Joins the Show
Release Date: May 12, 2025
In this engaging episode of the Don, Hahn & Rosenberg podcast, hosts Don Hahn, Peter Rosenberg, and special guest John Starks delve deep into the New York Knicks' recent performance in the playoffs, particularly focusing on their matchup against the Boston Celtics. The conversation is rich with analysis, personal insights, and nostalgic moments that resonate with both seasoned fans and newcomers alike.
1. Knicks vs. Celtics: A Critical Playoff Series
The episode kicks off with a detailed discussion about the Knicks' current standing in their playoff series against the Celtics. With the Knicks leading 2-1, the hosts emphasize the high stakes of the upcoming Game 4.
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Don Hahn [01:06]: "Damn right."
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Peter Rosenberg [01:35]: "This is kind of a must-win because if you let, you're letting the monster back in the house."
The team reflects on the Celtics' performance in Game 3, where Boston's exceptional three-point shooting (6 for 7 in the first quarter) significantly disrupted the Knicks' confidence.
- Don Hahn [02:16]: "All you've got to do is win one home game in the next two, and you're guaranteed a game seven."
2. Analyzing Game 3: What Went Wrong?
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the Celtics' dominance in Game 3 and its impact on the Knicks' morale.
- Don Hahn [03:11]: "Boston hit six of seven from three in the first quarter. Which team do you think was going to have more confidence?"
The hosts critique the Knicks' execution and intensity when up against a team that adapts and overcomes early setbacks.
- Peter Rosenberg [06:26]: "Jalen Brunson didn't like what he saw in Game three from his team."
Jalen Brunson's Leadership:
Brunson's remarks post-Game 3 highlighted the need for increased intensity and urgency, signaling a pivotal moment for the team's mindset.
- Don Hahn [04:24]: "Everything we need to do has to be done with more intensity, more urgency and more force."
3. The Impact of Star Players: Tatum and Brunson
The conversation shifts to the influence of key players like Jayson Tatum and Jalen Brunson.
- John Starks [05:17]: "He's making his mark. You can't say enough about what he brings to the team and his leadership."
The hosts discuss the importance of Tatum's versatility and Brunson's role as a steadying force for the Knicks.
- Don Hahn [12:04]: "Great players in the sport, like Brunson, are magnets. They draw everybody towards them."
4. Conversation with John Starks: Insights from a Legend
Former Knicks star John Starks joins the panel at Fan Plaza outside Madison Square Garden, offering his veteran perspective on the team's current challenges and prospects.
Intensity and Mental Toughness:
Starks emphasizes the necessity of maintaining high intensity and mental resilience, especially after a tough loss.
- John Starks [28:07]: "You have to get in there and shoot. You have to work and block everything out."
Relationship with Jalen Brunson:
Starks shares anecdotes about his relationship with Brunson, highlighting the latter's leadership and clutch performance.
- John Starks [47:09]: "Nothing. It's just a friendship. I appreciate his grit, his determination, his leadership."
Nostalgia and Fan Connection:
Reflecting on past eras, Starks reminisces about legendary Knicks moments and the unique energy of Madison Square Garden.
- John Starks [42:23]: "We had a lot of success here, and this arena just does something to you. You haven't played basketball in the NBA until you've played here."
5. Preparing for Game 4: Strategies and Expectations
As the discussion wraps up, the hosts and Starks outline their expectations and strategies for the upcoming Game 4.
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Peter Rosenberg [35:23]: "We have to knock down shots. We have to be more forceful, more aggressive."
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John Starks [35:31]: "You have to hit them first and let them know that you're here."
Fan Support and Team Morale:
Starks underscores the vital role of fan support in energizing the team, drawing parallels to his own experiences.
- John Starks [35:55]: "When players come here to New York and play in Madison Square Garden, it seems like we get the best out of everybody."
6. Final Thoughts and Looking Ahead
The episode concludes with a hopeful outlook for the Knicks, emphasizing the potential for redemption and the importance of seizing the momentum in Game 4.
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Don Hahn [34:40]: "Jalen Brunson came to me last year and said, we truly appreciate you guys, and that means a lot."
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John Starks [41:08]: "We are here for them. The fans are here for them, and tonight gonna be the night where we go get it done."
Notable Quotes:
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Peter Rosenberg [01:38]: "They are the defending champions. Yeah, you have to figure even though Boston didn't play the best, but they were hitting their threes."
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John Starks [29:00]: "I'm driving in and I'm listening to some old Biggie, some Tupac rap, and it's like I'm getting ready for the game."
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Don Hahn [32:12]: "As Tom Thibodeau said, I do think the Knicks had a crisis in confidence when they were missing those early shots."
This episode offers a comprehensive analysis of the Knicks' playoff journey, enriched by John Starks' firsthand experiences and deep-seated passion for the team. Listeners gain valuable insights into the strategic adjustments needed for the Knicks to overcome their challenges and advance further in the playoffs.
For those eager to stay updated and gain more in-depth discussions, tune into future episodes of Don, Hahn & Rosenberg on 880 ESPN New York or through the ESPN New York app.