Don, Hahn & Rosenberg Podcast: Hour 3 - Knicks Clinch Release Date: March 28, 2025

In this engaging episode of the "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" podcast, ESPN New York's Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg delve deep into the New York Knicks' impressive performance this season, culminating in their clinching of a playoff berth. The trio navigates through team dynamics, fan expectations, and the broader implications for the franchise's future.

1. Knicks' Consistent Playoff Appearances

Alan Hahn sets the stage by highlighting the Knicks' achievement of securing a playoff spot for the third consecutive year, a feat accomplished under the guidance of Leon Rose and Tom Thibodeau. He emphasizes the rarity of such consistency in the franchise's history, comparing it to the success seen during the late '90s under Jeff Van Gundy.

[00:21] Alan Hahn: "This season already has accomplished a playoff berth, meaning top six, which means you don't have to play in the play-in. You are going to play in a playoff series this year. It's the third straight year. It's four out of the five years that Leon Rose and Tom Thibodeau, since they have taken over, this team has been in the playoffs."

2. Fan Expectations vs. Team Achievements

While celebrating the Knicks' progress, Alan expresses frustration over the fanbase's reluctance to acknowledge this success, pointing out a pervasive sentiment that merely making the playoffs isn't sufficient.

[04:16] Alan Hahn: "How quickly do people forget? ... It's like now you're demanding better food."

Peter Rosenberg echoes this sentiment, labeling the attitude as unreasonable.

[04:29] Peter Rosenberg: "I'm with Alan on this. I think it's pretty whack, Don."

The conversation underscores a critical juncture where the franchise has moved from perennial underperformers to consistent playoff contenders, yet some fans remain fixated on past shortcomings.

3. Building a Sustainable Winning Culture

Don La Greca and Alan discuss the importance of recognizing the foundational work laid down by the current management and coaching staff. They argue that the franchise has shattered decades-long droughts and established itself as a formidable team in the league.

[05:39] Don La Greca: "I don't understand the celebrating. What are you talking about?"

[07:25] Peter Rosenberg: "That's such a silly way to approach it."

The hosts advocate for a balanced perspective, appreciating the strides made while simultaneously aspiring for greater achievements.

4. Impact of Key Injuries and Roster Depth

The dialogue shifts to the potential hurdles the Knicks might face in the playoffs, notably the absence of key players like Jalen Brunson due to ankle sprains. Alan mentions the limited depth at the point guard position, which could pose challenges in high-stakes games.

[17:22] Don La Greca: "The Brunson injury is that moment... you just know, like, oh, it's real close."

Despite these setbacks, the hosts maintain a cautiously optimistic outlook, believing in the team's resilience and capability to overcome adversities.

5. Historical Comparisons and Future Outlook

Drawing parallels with other sports franchises, the hosts discuss how initial successes can sometimes lead to complacency. Alan likens the Knicks' situation to that of the New York Yankees, suggesting that with sustained success, expectations naturally escalate.

[15:08] Peter Rosenberg: "Doesn't feel like that the Knicks are now in a weird Yankee-ish spot."

However, they caution against allowing the team to become complacent, stressing the necessity of continued improvement to transition from contenders to true championship contenders.

6. Addressing Fanbase Sentiments

In response to listener calls, Don and Alan address the varying perspectives within the Knicks' fanbase. Don emphasizes that long-term fans, who have endured years of struggle, understandably have heightened expectations now that the team is consistently performing well.

[34:29] Alan Hahn: "It's not that it's not good enough. I get what Alan's saying, but I also get the fans saying..."

The discussion highlights the emotional investment of fans and the delicate balance between celebrating current successes and striving for future greatness.

7. Building Momentum Towards Championships

Concluding the episode, Alan and Don reflect on the Knicks' journey, affirming their belief that the team is on the cusp of something significant. They express confidence that, with the right pieces in place and maintaining team health, the Knicks are poised to challenge for championships in the coming years.

[13:53] Alan Hahn: "I've never been that confident about it, but I just feel like this group, with what they have, I firmly do believe that it's close."

Notable Quotes

• Peter Rosenberg on Fan Attitude:

  [04:29] "I'm with Alan on this. I think it's pretty whack, Don."

• Alan Hahn on Building a Sustainable Team:

  [05:39] "How quickly do people forget?... It doesn't happen overnight."

• Don La Greca on Recognizing Progress:

  [07:23] "You have to look and say, you know what? Three in a row is not something we just kind of dismiss it."

• Alan Hahn on Future Expectations:

  [13:53] "I've never been that confident about it, but I just feel like this group, with what they have, I firmly do believe that it's close."

Conclusion

This episode of "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" serves as both a celebration of the Knicks' recent achievements and a critical examination of the evolving expectations within the fanbase. The hosts skillfully navigate the complexities of sports fandom, team development, and the quest for championship glory, providing listeners with insightful commentary and a hopeful outlook for the future of the New York Knicks.

For more discussions and in-depth analysis, subscribe to the "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" podcast on ESPN New York, the ESPN New York app, or your preferred podcast platform.