Don, Hahn & Rosenberg Podcast Summary

Podcast Information:

• Title: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg
• Host/Authors: Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, Peter Rosenberg
• Episode: Hour 3: Knicks Expectations
• Release Date: May 8, 2025
• Description: The first voice of ESPN New York and New Jersey, Don La Greca, alongside long-time sportswriter and New York Knicks broadcaster Alan Hahn and the highly opinionated Hip Hop veteran and WWE personality Peter Rosenberg, delve into New York sports and beyond.

1. Series Overview: Knicks vs. Celtics Playoff Series

The episode centers on the New York Knicks’ performance in their playoff series against the Boston Celtics. With the Knicks leading the series two games to none, the hosts discuss the potential outcomes and the significance of this lead.

Notable Quote:

• Don Hahn [05:27]: "The Knicks, I believe, have won five of the six."

2. Historical Context and Statistical Insights

Don Hahn provides a deep dive into the historical rarity of the Knicks’ current standing. He highlights that the Knicks are the 290th team in the play-by-play era to take a 2-0 series lead, a rare feat that underscores their surprising performance this season.

Notable Quotes:

• Don Hahn [05:10]: "The Knicks are the 290, 239th team to take a 2-0 series lead in the play-by-play era."
• Peter Rosenberg [06:48]: "They're the 290th team... That's a lot."

3. Player Performances and Tactical Adjustments

The conversation shifts to individual player performances, particularly focusing on Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby. Alan Hahn critiques Brunson’s shooting efficiency, while Peter Rosenberg praises Anunoby’s defensive prowess against Paul Pierce and Jayson Tatum.

Notable Quotes:

• Alan Hahn [35:21]: "Jalen Brunson is going to go an entire series here against the Celtics having a true breakout game."
• Don Hahn [36:53]: "Holding Paul Pierce to 13 points is like limiting him."

4. Coaching Strategies and Adjustments

The hosts analyze Coach Tibbs’ strategies, especially his handling of OG Anunoby and defensive plays. They discuss how Tibbs’ adjustments have been pivotal in the Knicks’ recent successes.

Notable Quotes:

• Peter Rosenberg [41:12]: "Tibbs has done a great job so far... he’s locked in."
• Don Hahn [39:49]: "Tibbs took him out and OG came in and played the rest of the game."

5. Odds, Predictions, and Betting Insights

The discussion delves into betting odds, with the Celtics remaining favorites despite the Knicks’ strong start. The hosts debate the likelihood of the Knicks covering the spread and the Celtics' potential to adjust and dominate the series.

Notable Quotes:

• Don Hahn [14:19]: "Celtics lay in five and a half."
• Peter Rosenberg [14:24]: "I took two because I just believe these games are just down to the nub."

6. Pressure, Expectations, and Psychological Factors

Alan Hahn and Peter Rosenberg explore the psychological pressure on both teams. They debate whether the Knicks can handle the mounting expectations after taking a significant lead and how this pressure might affect their performance in upcoming games.

Notable Quotes:

• Don Hahn [11:59]: "All of the pressure's on them. 99% of the pressure is on them."
• Alan Hahn [19:09]: "If the Knicks lose the game, things will be a little bit more tense on Monday."

7. Callers’ Insights and Fan Perspectives

Throughout the episode, callers share their perspectives on the Knicks’ season and their playoff performance. One caller, Mike Bayside, provides a detailed analysis of a specific late-game incident, praising Coach Tibbs’ foresight and strategic fouling to manage player fatigue and prevent free throws.

Notable Caller Input:

• Mike Bayside [39:27]: "I think that just showed that they were really, really locked in and that they really have a sense of how to handle this particular series."

8. Final Thoughts and Future Outlook

As the episode wraps up, the hosts reflect on the Knicks’ journey, the dynamic of the current team compared to past iterations, and the potential paths the series could take. They emphasize the unpredictability of the NBA playoffs and the hope that the Knicks can continue their unexpected run.

Notable Quotes:

• Don Hahn [32:15]: "With our fear of losing."
• Peter Rosenberg [31:12]: "This is a different Nick team than all the other ones we've seen over the last 25 years."

Conclusion

In this engaging episode of "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg," the hosts provide a comprehensive analysis of the New York Knicks’ unexpected and impressive performance in the playoffs against the Celtics. Through a blend of statistical insights, player performance evaluations, coaching strategies, and psychological discussions, they paint a vivid picture of a team that has defied expectations. With historical comparisons and betting discussions, the hosts offer listeners a multifaceted view of what the Knicks' future in the series might hold. The inclusion of caller perspectives adds depth and authenticity, making this summary a valuable resource for fans keen to understand the intricacies of the Knicks' playoff journey.

Highlights:

• Knicks leading 2-0 against Celtics, a rare occurrence in NBA history.
• Critical analysis of key players’ performances and coaching decisions.
• Exploration of betting odds and the psychological pressure on both teams.
• Insightful contributions from callers, enriching the discussion with fan perspectives.
• Reflective thoughts on the Knicks' evolution and potential future in the series.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Don Hahn [05:10]: "The Knicks are the 290, 239th team to take a 2-0 series lead in the play-by-play era."
• Alan Hahn [35:21]: "Jalen Brunson is going to go an entire series here against the Celtics having a true breakout game."
• Don Hahn [11:59]: "All of the pressure's on them. 99% of the pressure is on them."
• Peter Rosenberg [41:12]: "Tibbs has done a great job so far... he’s locked in."

This summary encapsulates the critical discussions and insights from the "Hour 3: Knicks Expectations" episode, providing a clear and comprehensive overview for those who haven't listened to the podcast.