Don, Hahn & Rosenberg – Hour 3: Knicks Coaching Search Summary
Release Date: June 9, 2025
In this engaging episode of the Don, Hahn & Rosenberg podcast, hosts Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg delve into a mix of personal anecdotes, fan etiquette, and in-depth analysis of the New York Knicks' ongoing coaching search. The episode seamlessly transitions from heartfelt discussions about parenting and appreciation to the high-stakes world of professional basketball coaching decisions, culminating in a comparative analysis of the NBA and Stanley Cup Finals.
1. Parental Appreciation and Modern Etiquette
Timestamp: 01:12 – 05:02
The episode kicks off with Peter Rosenberg sharing a personal story about arranging Uber rides for his son's group of friends after a weekend getaway at a Minnesota lake house. Faced with the logistical challenge of transporting five young adults back to New York, Peter opts for an Uber SUV instead of driving himself, despite concerns about cost and the lack of a personal thank you from the group.
Notable Quotes:
- Peter Rosenberg [02:11]: "I just said, forget it. Uber got an SUV, picked them up, took them home."
- Alan Hahn [03:44]: "That is the right thing to do."
The conversation evolves into a broader discussion about the importance of expressing gratitude. Peter questions whether expecting a simple thank you is reasonable, while Alan and Don advocate for appreciating such gestures without monetary compensation. They explore the generational gap in expressing thanks and the cultural shift in how younger generations perceive acknowledgment from parents.
Notable Quotes:
- Peter Rosenberg [03:50]: "Thank you is payment enough. Am I out of line?"
- Don La Greca [05:25]: "Get a thank you card or get his number and call him, reach out to him."
The segment highlights the hosts' perspectives on maintaining traditional values of appreciation amidst evolving social norms, emphasizing that a heartfelt thank you remains a meaningful gesture.
2. Knicks Coaching Search
Timestamp: 26:07 – 35:28
Transitioning from personal anecdotes, Don La Greca brings the focus to the pressing issue of the New York Knicks' coaching situation. The discussion centers around the potential hiring of Jason Kidd as the next head coach and the dynamics within the Knicks' front office, particularly the influence of team owner James Dolan.
Key Points:
- Potential Candidates: The possibility of Jason Kidd stepping into the Knicks' coaching role is examined, considering his previous tenure as a player and coach in New York and his rapport with star player Jalen Brunson.
- Front Office Dynamics: The hosts speculate on the internal decision-making processes, debating whether the move to hire Kidd is a strategic attempt to appease fan demands or a genuine effort to enhance the team's performance.
- Historical Context: References to past coaching trades and the 90s Knicks era provide a backdrop for understanding current tensions and expectations.
Notable Quotes:
- Don La Greca [26:19]: "When you ask, you're going to hire them. So essentially, when the Knicks express interest, the ball will be in the Mavericks' court..."
- Peter Rosenberg [28:07]: "He's been a good coach. He's bounced around a lot."
The hosts delve into the implications of potentially replacing Tom Thibodeau, evaluating Kidd's coaching style and his ability to build a cohesive team culture. They discuss the delicate balance between honoring the existing team's dynamics and introducing new leadership to drive the Knicks towards championship contention.
Notable Quotes:
- Alan Hahn [30:11]: "How are the front office of the Knicks going to function? Worldwide is an energy around his boss."
- Don La Greca [31:20]: "He talked to the players. If it was an irrational decision and all done, why would he even bother talking to the players?"
The segment underscores the complex interplay between ownership, coaching, and player relations, highlighting the challenges the Knicks face in making decisions that satisfy both internal stakeholders and the passionate fanbase.
3. NBA vs. Stanley Cup Finals: A Comparative Analysis
Timestamp: 37:39 – 47:22
Shifting gears, the hosts engage in a spirited comparison between the NBA Finals and the Stanley Cup Finals. Peter Rosenberg expresses his opinion that the recent Stanley Cup games have eclipsed the NBA Finals in terms of excitement and quality, a sentiment that Don and Alan explore further.
Key Points:
- Game Quality and Engagement: Peter argues that the Stanley Cup Finals delivered more compelling and epic games compared to the NBA Finals, citing dramatic endings and standout performances.
- Fan Engagement and Ratings: The hosts discuss factors influencing viewership, such as team popularity, star players, and market size. They note that the Stanley Cup features consistently strong teams with recognizable stars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, which may contribute to higher engagement.
- Broadcast and Presentation: Commentary on the broadcast quality and the role of announcers, particularly criticizing Mike Breen for his lack of enthusiasm in pivotal moments, adds another layer to the discussion.
Notable Quotes:
- Peter Rosenberg [38:09]: "The first two games of the Stanley Cup Final completely blew the NBA Finals out of the water."
- Alan Hahn [39:16]: "I didn't listen to anything you just said."
The conversation touches on the importance of storytelling and star power in maintaining high viewership and excitement levels during championship series. The hosts highlight how the presence of dynamic players and intense rivalries can make or break the appeal of a sports finale.
Notable Quotes:
- Don La Greca [43:24]: "It's all going to be about market size because they're regional sports."
- Peter Rosenberg [46:15]: "There's nothing else that draws you in."
In conclusion, the hosts ponder the sustainability of both leagues' finals in captivating audiences, considering the evolving landscape of sports entertainment and the continuous need for compelling narratives and standout talent.
Closing Remarks
As the episode wraps up, the hosts briefly touch upon upcoming events and encourage listeners to engage with their content across various platforms. The blend of personal stories, professional insights, and dynamic discussions exemplifies the podcast's commitment to providing listeners with a well-rounded perspective on sports and beyond.
Notable Overall Quotes:
- Don La Greca [24:53]: "What if I was scratching? I need to know that I'm on camera."
- Alan Hahn [35:34]: "By Mastercard International, Inc."
This episode offers a rich tapestry of conversations, balancing heartfelt personal experiences with incisive sports analysis, making it a must-listen for fans interested in both the human side of sports and the strategic decisions shaping their favorite teams.