Hour 3: Knicks, Newton, Belichick

Summary

Don, Hahn & Rosenberg Podcast Summary

Episode Title: Hour 3: Knicks, Newton, Belichick
Release Date: January 30, 2025
Hosts: Don LaGreca, Alan Hahn, Peter Rosenberg
Platform: ESPN New York and New Jersey
Duration: Approximately 50 minutes

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1. New York Knicks' Impressive Streak

Timestamp: 00:35 - 03:09

Don LaGreca opens the discussion by celebrating the New York Knicks' recent victory at Madison Square Garden, marking their fifth consecutive win. He highlights the challenging opponents they've faced, including top Western Conference teams like the Grizzlies and Nuggets. Don observes, "This is the best basketball I've seen the Knicks play in my lifetime. I never saw the '73 team." (03:02)

Key Points:

• Knicks have secured five consecutive wins against formidable Western teams.
• Recent games against the Nuggets showcased the team's determination and strategic play.
• Jalen Brunson's standout performance, particularly in the last quarter, was pivotal in securing victories.

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2. Comparing Current Knicks to Historic Teams

Timestamp: 03:09 - 08:26

Alan Hahn and Don engage in a comparative analysis of the current Knicks roster against past legendary teams, including the 1993, 1994, 1997, and 1999 Knicks squads. Don ranks these teams, placing the current lineup as the best since the '73 championship team.

Notable Quote:

• Don LaGreca: "This is the best team the Knicks have had since then." (04:31)

Key Points:

• The current team surpasses the '93, '94, '97, and '99 Knicks in terms of offensive efficiency and play intelligence.
• Emphasis on the Knicks averaging nearly 118 points per game, a franchise record.
• Defense has also improved, ranking within the top 10 in scoring defense.
• Sustainability and player health are crucial for maintaining this high performance into the playoffs.

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3. Team Chemistry and Player Contributions

Timestamp: 08:26 - 16:12

The conversation shifts to team chemistry, particularly focusing on Mitch Robinson's role. A caller, Antonio, praises the team's cohesion and defends Robinson's place in the lineup, suggesting that retaining him could bolster their defense against teams like Boston.

Notable Quotes:

• Antonio: "The Knicks is looking really good. I'm motivated. I love watching every single game." (15:13)
• Alan Hahn: "If they wind up moving him at the deadline, it's a sign that they never expected him to play." (15:38)

Key Points:

• Mitch Robinson is seen as a valuable asset to the Knicks' defensive lineup.
• The importance of team chemistry and defensive improvements in sustaining the Knicks' success.
• Discussion on the trade deadline and its implications for player roles and team strategy.

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4. Cam Newton: MVP vs. Championship Dilemma

Timestamp: 27:19 - 33:26

A segment dedicated to the debate on whether winning an MVP award or a championship is more valuable, featuring insights from Cam Newton. The hosts explore the impact of individual accolades versus team success.

Notable Quotes:

• Don LaGreca: "Championships are about legacy, and legacy is how you are immortal in the sport, not awards." (36:07)
• Peter Rosenberg: "If you could give back that league MVP for a Super Bowl championship, would you do it? Nope." (30:31)

Key Points:

• The hosts argue that championships hold more enduring value in a player's legacy compared to individual awards like MVPs.
• Cam Newton is cited as an example, having won an MVP but not securing a Super Bowl, leading to debates about his career choices.
• Emphasis on the importance of team contributions and legacy over personal accolades.

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5. Bill Belichick's Coaching Legacy

Timestamp: 22:28 - 47:00

The podcast delves into Bill Belichick's understated yet monumental impact on the NFL. The hosts discuss how Belichick's coaching success often flies under the radar compared to marquee players like Tom Brady.

Notable Quotes:

• Don LaGreca: "He's like, how is he not in the conversation? One of the great coaches in the history of the sport." (24:13)
• Alan Hahn: "Players win games. You can't win games without good players." (43:12)

Key Points:

• Belichick's ability to craft winning teams with strategic prowess, often without the most high-profile players.
• Comparison of Belichick's achievements to other coaching legends and his potential to surpass records held by coaches like George Halas.
• The discussion touches on the challenges of attributing team success solely to coaching versus player performance.

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6. Listener Interactions and Personal Stories

Timestamp: 15:35 - 38:05

Throughout the episode, listeners share their personal experiences and opinions on the topics discussed. One notable caller, Antonio, expresses unwavering support for the Knicks and shares a nostalgic connection to the team's journey.

Key Points:

• Personal anecdotes from listeners enhance the relatability of the discussion.
• The hosts engage with callers, providing thoughtful responses and fostering a community atmosphere.
• Stories highlight the emotional investment fans have in their favorite teams and players.

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7. Other Sports Insights and Commentary

Timestamp: 38:05 - 48:45

Beyond basketball and football, the hosts briefly touch upon other sports topics, including the Stanley Cup and trophy naming conventions. While not the main focus, these discussions offer additional depth to the sports commentary.

Key Points:

• Debate over the significance and naming of major sports trophies.
• Comparisons between different sports' traditions and their impact on team legacies.
• Light-hearted banter among hosts adds a dynamic and engaging element to the podcast.

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Conclusion

In this episode of Don, Hahn & Rosenberg, the hosts provide an in-depth analysis of the New York Knicks' soaring performance, drawing comparisons to historic teams and emphasizing the importance of both offensive prowess and defensive improvements. They engage with listeners' opinions, delve into the nuanced debate of individual accolades versus team championships, and celebrate the often-unsung heroism of coaches like Bill Belichick. The blend of expert commentary, heartfelt fan interactions, and spirited debates makes for a comprehensive and engaging listen for sports enthusiasts.

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For more detailed discussions and insights, tune into the full episode available on the ESPN New York app, 880 ESPN, or your preferred smart speaker platform.

Transcript

[Alan Hahn]

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[Don LaGreca]

This is the Don Hahn and Rosenberg podcast.

[Alan Hahn]

That sounds like heaven to me.

[Don LaGreca]

Listen live weekday afternoon starting at 3 on 880 ESPN, the ESPN New York app and your smart speakers. All right, it's the big 5:00 hour with Don Lagreca and Peter Rosenberg. I'm Alan Hahn. 800-919-3776 of course, is the number. So the Knicks win last night at the Garden. It was another one of like, it was a great atmosphere as usual. This is now again five in a row. The last three games are against teams in the west that were playing really well. The last two wins are against two of the top teams in the west, the Grizzlies. And then they take on Jokic and the Nuggets last night. And I'm telling you, I was right by the Nuggets bench throughout the game. They wanted that game bad. Jokic got into early foul trouble. The Knicks had a lead but really couldn't break the game open. And Michael Malone, remember the Knicks went to Denver in November and they put 145 points on him, embarrassed them at home. So he was sort of like letting his guys know, you better get after it, they're going to put another 140 on you because the last two games they did that to the opponents. And so that Nuggets team started tightening it up and they wanted to, they wanted to make sure that they weren't going to get embarrassed. And then Jamal Murray had it going in the third quarter and a nick lead suddenly turned into an eight point deficit. And guys, I've seen this before and tell me you haven't either at the guard. When you a stage like that, the opposing team always, always one guy that is and sometimes it's the other team star that they take over the stage. Like this is my one game here. I'm putting on a show. I'm going to get this building in my pocket. We've seen it happen a lot. And the Knicks, usually you get an anxious crowd, a frustrated crowd, and then the Knicks end up losing the game. Jalen Brunson wouldn't let that happen? He all of a sudden just took the, he started scoring. He was aggressive. He had 18 points in the quarter, closed the quarter, they had the lead and then he only took one shot in the fourth quarter because at that point he's like, okay, now that they're focused on me, I'm going to start passing it around. Seven of his 15 assists were in that fourth quarter. And the Knicks closed the door. And I watched this team play and I watched the first two months that did that month of December. I've called a bunch of their games sitting courtside and I'm telling you, I kept saying to myself last night, the way this team plays, this is the best basketball I've seen the Knicks play in my lifetime. I never saw the 73 team. And I know everybody raved about that championship team, one of the high IQ teams of all time. So I'm going to stop there when I say this is the best team the Knicks have had since then.

[Alan Hahn]

Now you're not saying they're winning the championship?

[Don LaGreca]

No, no, no.

[Alan Hahn]

I can't say it's the best team since 73.

[Don LaGreca]

And again, there's not a lot of them.

[Alan Hahn]

So. Right. So you're looking at those early 90 teams.

[Don LaGreca]

The 93 team, 94. 93 won 60 games. They were very good. 94 obviously went to the finals. They were excellent team. They had three All Stars on that team. The 97 team won 57 games. They had some flaws though. And one of them was they, they, they made a lot of like self, self inflicted mistakes, including not be able to keep their cool in a big game. A big series against Miami where they were about to. They had control of the series and then they lost it because they got suspended. The 99 team was sort of out of, out of the blue. They threw that team together. It was a lockout season and they got right at the right time, but they obviously Patrick was never healthy that year and they had no chance of beating the spurs, but they were still just a tough, rugged team that just made it difficult on you. But they weren't an offensive juggernaut.

[Alan Hahn]

And I guess you'd Throw in the 1213 team.

[Don LaGreca]

The 115 was very good, but they.

[Alan Hahn]

Were all so, so rank them for me. Of the teams that you've seen, what were you would rank? This team is obviously number one.

[Don LaGreca]

I got this team at number one, the 97 team at number two. Okay. The 94 team at 3, 99 is 4, 93 is 5. And the 93 team won 60 games.

[Alan Hahn]

That's pretty good. So what are you leaving out?

[Peter Rosenberg]

Really?

[Alan Hahn]

There's nothing. There's not a lot. You're saying two things. This team's really good. And also there's not a lot to compare it.

[Don LaGreca]

No.

[Alan Hahn]

And there was really nothing.

[Don LaGreca]

I guess last year's team. But was good.

[Alan Hahn]

But what was post 73? I. I remember 84 was pretty good team.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah. The 70s, remember, fell off quick. Quick that. That once Willis Reed retired everything kind.

[Alan Hahn]

Of moments in the 80s are they.

[Don LaGreca]

84 was Bernard King and he was a one man show, all due respect to that group and Hubie Brown, who was the coach, but that was a one man show.

[Alan Hahn]

They lost to Boston in 88. Right?

[Don LaGreca]

They lost to Boston.

[Alan Hahn]

What round was that?

[Don LaGreca]

That was the first round. That year was Pitino's first season. They won 37 games. Playoffs again and they. They. I think they was.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Do you mean 87, 88?

[Alan Hahn]

Yeah, yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

They were eighth and they lost to the Celtics.

[Don LaGreca]

Celtics in the first round. The second round. Three one the second year. Right. They. They did get the one win at home. The second year was when Patino got him the 50 wins. They swept the Sixers. Remember the famous Brome?

[Alan Hahn]

Yeah, that was.

[Don LaGreca]

And then.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And then caught Jordan.

[Don LaGreca]

Right. And then the second round is the first time they couldn't beat Jordan. And then, you know, 90 was a good team. They beat the Celtics actually in the first round. Kind of put an end to the Celtics era. But you know, again, it just.

[Alan Hahn]

Not a lot. There's just. There's not a lot there.

[Don LaGreca]

Not a lot. Yeah, but I'm saying when you look at the style of basketball, like I said, they've never averaged over 117 points a game. Almost 118 points a game. That's what they're averaging. They've never done it in their career in their whole franchise's history. So there's the offense, the efficiency of the offense, the intelligence of the play. If you watch them play, you have to watch. This is an intelligent team. And the last frontier that I've been telling everybody is, well, I need to see their defense get better because for the most part of the season they've been, you know, middle of the pack. Defensive rating well, they're moving into the top 10 and they're already in the top 10. And scoring defense, they're holding teams to. I think it's like 108 points a game, which I know, believe it or not, is like seventh in the league. So if that really does start to come around, which these last few games we're seeing it get right. How could you not say both sides of the ball? This is as good as basketball as the Knicks have ever played. Now it has to be sustained. They have to stay healthy, and then we'll see the matchups in the playoffs.

[Alan Hahn]

And then we'll see about the playoffs. Yeah, because listen, the injuries did derail last year playoffs, but you still got to go out and win those games. Right. So we don't know. I think they would have won, but we don't know what you would have done against the Celtics.

[Don LaGreca]

You guys used to call it the fallacy of the predetermined outcome. Right.

[Alan Hahn]

Yeah. Michael always talked about the. Michael's upset with us because we were talking about wanting to see him get high and apparently he took that offensively. We apologize. No.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Do we?

[Don LaGreca]

I. I guess.

[Alan Hahn]

I guess.

[Don LaGreca]

Well, I'm the one that said it, so I probably shouldn't have done this. He was really nice to me today and there I am. There were a lot of him getting.

[Alan Hahn]

On the text that I thought it was funny.

[Don LaGreca]

I apologize.

[Alan Hahn]

We love you, but that doesn't automatically mean that you were going to win. I. We had callers earlier that saying, I think this team can play for the championship, win a championship. And I guess that's cool to keep in the back of your mind. This is still the regular season. There's still a lot to do, and we'll see. What you saw last night was a team that could beat anybody. They can beat anybody. But the last I checked, it's the best of seven series. So if you're playing Denver in the final, you're going to have to beat them four times. You're playing the Celtics. Like, I could see them beating the Celtics on Saturday. Next Saturday, the day before the Super Bowl. Yeah, why not? Games home, national television. And I could see. Nick fans, I think that Monday we come back obviously going to be recapping the super bowl, but you're going to have a lot of Knick fans. If they beat the Celtics or even pass them in the standings, they start thumping their chest saying it's a championship or bust now. And I'm just saying pump the brakes only for your own purposes, because there's still a lot to learn. The playoffs are a different animal. You're going to be playing on a Celtic team. That's that they. They have the pelts and you don't have them. You got a little bit, but you don't. You don't have them the way the Celtics have them.

[Don LaGreca]

Right.

[Alan Hahn]

You know, and that's why I think that would be a favorable matchup with Cleveland, because Cleveland doesn't have the Pelts either.

[Don LaGreca]

Nope.

[Alan Hahn]

And you saw what happens when you have the Pelts just a couple of years ago when you face the Heat. Everybody thought they were going to beat the Heat. All that. We're a playing team you got to beat. And then what happened?

[Don LaGreca]

Jimmy Butler and Kyle Lowry and those guys, like. Yeah. Because they'd already been there. They've put in the time. And even Boston. Boston had the Pelts from a run to the finals, even though they had been losing. And Boston kept running into a wall over the last couple of years. They did get to a finals. They did lose it, but they got there. And that experience alone, you know, the following year, then they. They. They give you a step back. And that was frustrating when they lost to the Heat in the conference final. But then last year, it was that now or never moment, and everything broke for them. Think about it. The Bucs were hurt, were terrible. The Pacers terrible. Right. They were all. They. They weren't good enough. And instead of having to face a better Bucs team or a better Knicks team, they had to play a team like the Pacers in the Eastern Conference finals. They overwhelmed them. So that's why I love what you say about Peltz. I think you're right. You got to keep collecting, put them on the wall, and eventually you get to that point where, no, this is our time. And you hope that that time will come while the window is open. Because one thing I'm watching, guys, I'm watching San Antonio, and that guy Wembanyama is not going away.

[Peter Rosenberg]

No.

[Don LaGreca]

And if they do the right thing and build the right way around him, which I imagine they're going to, it's going to come a time where, like, nobody beating that team. Right. Like, they're just. If they do it right, which is what you should do with a guy.

[Peter Rosenberg]

That's what they do, and it's what they do generally.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

As an organization, they have a history.

[Don LaGreca]

Of it, so you can trust them that they'll do it. I. I look at that like. You can tell me all you want about the Thunder and all that stuff. The Thunder are a really, really good team, but they're, I think, in the same place as the Knicks. They got a window. You better get one.

[Alan Hahn]

Yeah. Because you're. Peter Alan was talking about it off the air about that 04 Pistons team.

[Don LaGreca]

Yep.

[Alan Hahn]

They found a window.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah. Between the Lakers, Shaq, Kobe, breakup.

[Alan Hahn]

Right.

[Don LaGreca]

And then the kind of rebirth of the Spurs. Yeah.

[Alan Hahn]

You know, and then LeBron, of course. Because if you think the spurs are going to be all that, then this might be that window. You get them while you can, guys, because the next dynasty might be around the corner. I got a chance to call a Spurs game last year and he's just special. He does things that you're not expecting. Like for me, being a neophyte, doing play by play, you know, there's certain expectations of what you expect a player to do. And then he was doing things that wow. Became a real challenge to describe because I had not seen that before. Yeah, it was like, because he's so big, there was like a play where he's like at the foul line and then the next thing you know, he's dunking the basketball like, what's going on? He was almost as if he beamed himself to the area onto the basket because he is really just incredible.

[Don LaGreca]

Inspector Gadget.

[Alan Hahn]

Yes, exactly.

[Don LaGreca]

All I ever think is Go Go Gadget arms. Like, how is he at the free throw line? He just dunk the basketball. How's that possible?

[Peter Rosenberg]

At this, at this moment, he's averaging 48% from the floor, 35 and a half percent from three. That'll go up and 84% from the free throw line. He's given you 24 points and 11 boards a game. Year two, he's a baby. I mean, this, he, he, he could truly be the guy. I don't think it's even going out there on a limb to say he is the next face of the NBA. I think that's where we're going.

[Don LaGreca]

He's got to be because there's no one else. There really isn't someone as sellable as he is because it goes beyond how good you are as a player. And you have to be not just good, you have to be extra special good.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And he has like this double thing of like, not only is he extra special good, but the problem nature. But the problem we've had with the big man before is that very often in San Antonio is the perfect place to look. You can have a fantastic big man and they will love you in the town where you dominate, but you don't become a national star because it's not exciting. He is like, take your Tim Duncan, your David Robinson, your Hakeem Olajuwon, and then sprinkle in the modern day Steph Curry influence. He does everything.

[Don LaGreca]

Yes.

[Peter Rosenberg]

He's got it all, man.

[Don LaGreca]

It's a great point. And also, if you think about that right now, the guy dominating as a big man is Nikola Jokic. And while he is a unbelievable player, like, he's compelling with his skill. But when it comes to casual fans, like we always talk about, it's like, you die hards, we have you already. We're trying to attract people who aren't as engaged in watching the game all the time. There's nothing about Jokic when you just look at him, because physically, again, he just looks like an average man. He looks bored all the time. He's not a big, expressive personality. He has no interest in selling you a product, right? Like, this is just not who he is. And that's fine. So you need somebody who has some charisma. And if you've ever talked to Wemby, he's got that charisma. He's got it all. And that's why, you know, they'll do the right thing. And I agree. He's going to be the face of the league. And if they build it right there, they'll be the next juggernaut that everybody's going to have to beat. So if you're going to get one, you want to get it now. 800 now. 193776. Antonio's in Brooklyn. What's up, Antonio?

[Caller]

What's up, fellas? How you doing? Don Peter and Alan Mazel. Tough to Peter. Next year, our Redskins will be much better. And with that being said, my next question to you, Allen, is I don't think the Knicks should trade or even think about trading Mitch Robinson. I think they should wait, see how the chemistry works with him. Because if they have Mitch coming back and the team that we have right now, that's balling and they're gelling together, the defense is getting elite, much better. I think with Mitch in there, it will make a much better difference to sustain beating Boston, maybe, or even going that far. I don't. I'm a happy Knicks fan. I've been a Knicks fan since the bomb squad era. And I just love watching every single game. And if nobody wants to go with you to the Celtic game, gladly buy you a ticket. My price range is a 200 range. Section 200, 209 or something. We'll hang out. But if not, it's all good because the Knicks is looking really good. I'm motivated. I love watching every single game. Yesterday's game was crazy. The way Brunson was just controlling, running the tempo of the game, holding it down like the General, sharing the ball. OG and Hara Hart is amazing too, as well. The whole Team is great. It's just fun to watch. And then in our area, with that being said, be well, fellas. God bless. Peace.

[Don LaGreca]

Thank you, Antonio.

[Alan Hahn]

That's the way you got to think.

[Don LaGreca]

At least somebody wants to go to the game with me. Geez. Thank you.

[Alan Hahn]

There's a lot of people that want to go to the game.

[Don LaGreca]

At least somebody. But again, with, with what he's talking about, Mitchell Robinson, if, if they, I don't think they're going to trade him, but if they do, with the deadline, it tells you they don't. Dude did not expect him to return, and that would be more alarming than anything else.

[Alan Hahn]

Well, when, when is this going to happen?

[Don LaGreca]

Well, the trade deadline is the sixth.

[Alan Hahn]

No, I'm saying when is he. If they don't trade him, when is he going to play again?

[Don LaGreca]

I don't know. I, I honestly, like, I, it's really up to when they clear him. And that's why I'm telling you, if they wind up moving him at the deadline, it's a sign that they never expected him to play. And that's why we never saw him, because he is running. He is doing some light work on the court, but he's not cleared for contact yet, and that's what they're waiting for. So I would just keep an eye on this story through the, again, through the trade deadline. Spike down in St. Pete. Hey, Spike, what's up, baby?

[Caller]

Mr. Yesterday, Alan, you cut away for an MSG thing. Let me just make this statement and just take it for what it's worth. My opinion is what it is. I'm an old guy, seen a lot of basketball. My Mount Rushmore of basketball knowledge, in no specific order is UB Brown. Stunning Hill. Oh, man. Let's remind us my memory when you get old. And Peter Vessi, who's a friend of mine also, who made that beautiful true statement about you, and I am giving you that next spot because you have taught me so much about basketball. I once asked you this, and you, you may not remember because you're all over the place. You got four kids. I asked you, what do you like better? When you made the transition from hockey to basketball? You said, I love. My passion is hockey. I love basketball. Do you remember saying that?

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah, I always say that. Yeah. And that's a true statement. I. Yeah, yeah. I just. There's something different about each for me. They have, they have a different reason. Like, I'm a hockey. We're a hockey family. Like, we're not a basketball family. It's Just I'm a basketball guy but my family, we're hockey. That's who we are.

[Caller]

But you what you went to St. Anthony's after Kennedy, right? After Kenny.

[Don LaGreca]

Yes, Kenny was. Was just. I was in eighth grade when he was senior.

[Caller]

Right, Kenny. Ken for you guys. If you know Kenny Atkinson who's a superb coach and got scored now he's buying now a lot of money is Steve Kerr's number two. But he was a great player in high school. I watched. He has about six or seven brothers. Alan.

[Don LaGreca]

Yes, a handful of brothers.

[Caller]

Yeah, yeah, right. Yeah, right. When you went what was called post. I think whatever it is you. You blew your. You blew your Achilles out or your acl.

[Don LaGreca]

I blew out the acl. I blew out the mcl. I also tore up most of the meniscus as well. I did whatever you could do to a knee each time I tried to come back until the knee just said you're done.

[Caller]

And you had a full ride which was good. So. So I can't tell you how happy I am for this new program. And I called Michael today because have my season tickets for Forever. It started at $12.50. It's $400 now. They priced me out but Tim McCarthy used to sit below me with Michael would go often because Michael's second sport is basketball. There's no question about it. And he told the story today just to cross over to the young sneakers. Peter just had a little girl. He watches the games with Charlie and. And my. I have four and the old. This boy went to Gainesville when the Horford and Brewer and those guys were there. They wanted to with Billy Donovan and I got pretty friendly with those guys. Anyway I'm saying all this because you're you you're 50 something and Sunny Hill's 88 and I call him on Sundays. He's on an IP and. And he busts my chops about Peter and the Rucker League before it was the Rucker League and he the Nate Archibald stories. I know I'm all over the place. But you have all this knowledge. I've read both the books and you've asked me questions pre 80s and it's wonderful to a guy like me who I love hoops. It's the space family and hoops for me and you've taught me so much. We don't agree on everything and that's fine. That's if we agree, you know, wouldn't work. But I think this next teams I think what they're going to do and thanks for the Time with, with Cat. I think they're gonna know that he can't, you know, they're gonna lay off of him and double him when he goes to the hole. And the last question, very important for me. I waited all day for this. Chad Holin coming back and fitting and he's Never played with iHeart. What will the difference be with Mitchell coming back and he's never played with Cat. Can you talk about that and I'll listen on the screen?

[Don LaGreca]

All right, thank you, Mike. It's. I don't know what it's going to look like but what they hope it could look like in a perfect world is what Rudy Gobert was doing next to Cat in Minnesota. And in certain matchups and situations you could play a lineup like that where I think Cat proved that he can play. He can guard a big and he can still. You can have Mitchell Robinson guard the wing because he's athletic and help out and shadow. So it's all stuff we got to see, you know, you got to give it time. How we doing guys? Got a good rest?

[Alan Hahn]

Doing good man. That was. He made up for lost time.

[Don LaGreca]

I was making sure Peter didn't fall.

[Peter Rosenberg]

No, I'm here. What am I want me to do? Jump in?

[Alan Hahn]

You know I'm not gonna cut the guy off.

[Don LaGreca]

I understand.

[Peter Rosenberg]

You gotta get his ish in.

[Don LaGreca]

Well, in the meantime, how about Richard in Manhattan then? Hey Richard.

[Alan Hahn]

That's a tough back to back.

[Caller]

Hi. Hi Peter. Hi, Don. Hi, Alan, Phyllis. There's one guy who's flying way under the radar during the playoffs. Whenever we talk football, this guy is under the radar. Nobody ever talks about this guy, okay? Being from New York on radio stations all we hear about is Rich Kotite to bill Parcells 1 in 15 to 9 and 7. Parcells is one of the greatest ever this and that. Andy Reid gets fired from Philadelphia. Kansas City is 2:14 and immediately they go 11:5. 11:5. That's a better jump than Parcells did from Rich coach Height's team. This guy's won more championships than Choparcells. He may be a football coach for 30 years. He may break George Hallis record. He'll certainly break Shuler's record. This guy is never ever talked about among great. I think if he wins the Super Bowl I would put him considering all he's done throughout his career ahead of Belichick. I just think he's that fantastic self effacing. He doesn't take any credit. He's never in the limelight. He doesn't talk much you never hear a word from this guy. And he's smart enough to let Mahomes get all the glory and Kelce get the glory. And now, you know, he's just great. This guy is so fantastic. I just, I just can't believe that he's never talked about with awe. I really don't.

[Don LaGreca]

I think he is Richard.

[Alan Hahn]

I think, I think he is.

[Don LaGreca]

I mean, isn't he. Where's he now on the wins when you include the playoffs? Right there.

[Alan Hahn]

I think he's the next. He's probably going to pass. Unless he decides to retire soon. He will pass Halas and pass Belichick if Belichick doesn't come back into the league. And to Richard's point, it's a good one. I think a lot of people like, well, he's got the best quarterback in the sport. Well, those seasons when he first took over in Kansas City that first year, Alex Smith, 11 and 5 was Alex Smith went 9, 7 with Alex Smith, you know, he didn't get, he didn't get Mahomes till much later on. And that's when the rings started to come. But otherwise he was taking, you know, listen, Alex Smith went to a championship game in San Francisco. So he wasn't nobody, but he wasn't Patrick Mahomes. He looked about like a guy that couldn't win the big one. He couldn't win those championship games. Lost the Super Bowl. New England with Donovan McNabb.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Donovan, as I said yesterday though, you look back at the teams they had there, those were good teams, Those were good teams. But Andy Reid made those great teams.

[Alan Hahn]

But you know, that's the thing is, is that is Donovan McNabb great or did Andy Reid make him great? Like Donovan McNabb was, was obviously a very high first round pick, but he's not Patrick Mahomes. And so those teams went to the championship, they lost a couple, they probably shouldn't have lost to Tampa, but they went to a Super bowl and he goes there and if he wins the ring here, and I fully expect him to do it, It'll be his fourth since 20, since 2019, guys. It's pretty. And also go to a couple of.

[Don LaGreca]

Super Bowls and lose and it's a true dynasty, which again, as a coach, you winning three in a row that nobody's ever done before, that's pretty significant. You know, nobody's ever done that before. So yeah, he's like, how is he not in the conversation? Well, he is in the conversation. One of the great coaches in the history of the sport.

[Alan Hahn]

I do think think the part of talking about Kansas City, about how irritating they are, or Patrick Mahomes. Is he the greatest? I do think sometimes Andy Reid's greatness does get lost a bit. But believe me, people do appreciate how good he is. And even if he doesn't win next Sunday, you're talking about one of the great coaches of all time.

[Don LaGreca]

All right, coming up, we ask a question that was answered by one all time great is what would you rather have, an MVP or a championship? The answer he gave surprised a lot of people, angered people. But does it make sense? We'll discuss that. We got calls 800-919-3776 but may I fellas, introduce you to an SUV where everything for every passenger feels just right? That is the all new 2025 Infiniti QX80. It's Infiniti's most luxurious full size three row SUV that's full of customizable and advanced features. Individual audio that easily isolates calls or directions to the driver's seat. So when you have a chance to take a private call, it's easy to keep your business personal. 64 customizable shades. You can set the interior to match your mood. Plus it has two rows of heated and cooled massage seats for the ultimate in relaxation and luxury. And if you're feeling parched or hungry, open up the front console cool box. You get an icy cold drink or snack at any time, especially in those warm, hot summer months. That's just a few of the many amazing new features available on the all new Infiniti QX80. So how about you discover you're just right? Visit InfinityUSA.com to learn more about the all new Infiniti QX80. Availability of features may vary by trim level, packaging and options. TaxAct knows filing your taxes can be complicated, and that's why we have live experts to help you with any questions. They can hold your hand through the process, beginning to end. Metaphorically, of course. I mean, they can't actually hold your hand in person.

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[Don LaGreca]

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[Peter Rosenberg]

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[Don LaGreca]

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[Alan Hahn]

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[Don LaGreca]

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[Don LaGreca]

See app for details. Thanks for listening to the Don Hahn and Rosenberg podcast.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I didn't listen to anything you just said.

[Don LaGreca]

Catch this show on demand whenever you want. Just subscribe to us wherever you get your podcasts. All right, so just asking you guys, yes, you would imagine if I gave you a choice in your career that you could win only one of these two things. You could be the league MVP or win a championship.

[Alan Hahn]

Am I. Am I a passenger in the championship, or am I a major contributor?

[Don LaGreca]

I'm not telling you that. No, no, I'm not giving you that. I'm just saying you got to give.

[Alan Hahn]

Me something because I don't want to be the backup center and not play and I got a ring. I mean, I want to know. I played the game, I contributed.

[Don LaGreca]

I'm not telling you. All right, I'm giving you this is your career's about to start, and I'm letting you sign up for one of two things to happen in your career. You have no idea where it's going. You haven't even been drafted yet. But, like, this is your soul to the devil before the draft night. And the book is out and I have two pages and you have to sign your name on one page. One page is you'll have an MVP season in this league. The other one is you'll win a championship in this league. Which page are you signing?

[Alan Hahn]

Well, I can only go by how I grew up, whether it was playing wiffle ball in the backyard or playing touch football or all the things that I kind of just prepared myself for.

[Don LaGreca]

Right.

[Alan Hahn]

I always imagined that it was game seven of the World Series and I was up and the home run was going to win the championship. I never thought about this home run is going to clinch my mvp. It was all about trying to win a championship. So I would think, listen, MVPs are fleeting, man. I mean, can you, can you name just off the top of your head the league MVP of the 13 NFL season? No, but you can definitely tell me who won Super Bowl 42 or Super Bowl 47. Like we remember Super bowl champions MVPs. You know, sometimes you got to look it up. I'm not sure did he win an mvp? You know, so for me it would be the Chip.

[Don LaGreca]

Peter, same offer is there for you. Two pages, sign your name. You haven't been drafted yet. You don't know what your career is going to look like. But I have two pages for you. Sign this with the devil. You're either going to be a league MVP one season in your career or a league champion one season in your career. Which page you sign it?

[Peter Rosenberg]

I think I'm choosing championship as well. Like for me, I'm going to go into with confidence, assuming that I'm a contributor to whatever team I'm going to be a part of. And based on the years I've known and loved and watched sports, I know what it means to guys when they've had their career end without a championship, particularly if they were a major contributor. So I'm taking Chip.

[Don LaGreca]

All right, so Cam Newton in his career won an mvp. He also went to a Super bowl, did not win it. So he's had the experience of both. Stephen A. Smith asked him the same kind of question, like, okay, you've won an mvp. Would you give that up to clinch the super bowl and to be a Super bowl champion? His answer was interesting.

[Peter Rosenberg]

If you could give back that league.

[Alan Hahn]

MVP for a Super bowl championship, would you do it?

[Peter Rosenberg]

Nope.

[Caller]

Really?

[Peter Rosenberg]

What's more important, impact or championships? You look at a guy like Allen Iverson, everybody's not going to be Michael Jordan. Everybody's not going to be Patrick Mahomes. Everybody's not going to be these individuals who have the luxury, luxury of saying, hey, I not only dominated this sport, but I also have championships to back it. Let me remind you, Brad Johnson won a Super Bowl. Trent Dilfer won a Super Bowl. Respectfully, Nick Foles won a Super Bowl. So yes, when you look at those guys and you say, okay, what's more important? Would you have preferred to win a Super Bowl? I think that that's the humble approach. But if we're being honest, the impact.

[Don LaGreca]

Of you whole holding yourself accountable to.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Say everybody has a responsibility to do. And you can say as an MVP.

[Don LaGreca]

Award winner or All American, you've held.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yourself or you've held your end of the bargain down. And that's what it really comes down to for me. I'm taking individual success because I did my job.

[Don LaGreca]

What do you think of that?

[Alan Hahn]

Oh, it's, it's self serving. It's a narcissistic. I mean it's.

[Peter Rosenberg]

The last part was also a word sub sandwich. I don't even know what the hell.

[Alan Hahn]

It was because, you know, he fumbled in the super bowl and many people thought he didn't make enough of an effort to recover the fumble. All right, so you talk about accountability now. I don't know if that cost him a championship. It certainly didn't help them to try to win that championship. And you know, MVPs. Again, if you ask Nick Foles right now, he was probably an average quarterback his whole career. Give your ring up to win an mvp. You think he's doing that? He's a forever player. Everybody's gonna remember Nick Foles in that super bowl, the Philly special, all that stuff. MVPs. We looked, we had to look up Matt Ryan won the MVP in 2016 over Andrew Luck. I had to look it up like I put a gun to my head. Did Matt Ryan win an MVP or not like I thought he did?

[Don LaGreca]

I think Matt Ryan would give that up to have won that game.

[Alan Hahn]

But you damn well you damn know I remember that. You know, he was the quarterback of a team that blew a 28, 3 lead in the Super bowl one pass.

[Don LaGreca]

Away from clinching that game.

[Alan Hahn]

Not that that was his fault, but I'm just saying is that we remember the championships, we don't remember the MVPs.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah.

[Alan Hahn]

So I'm sorry, that's really self serving. That's selfish. And you said you held down. Yeah, you held things down for yourself. But damn, man, you're the quarterback of a football team and you have a major impact on your team winning a championship. And you're telling me that what you did in that regular season was more important than what you did in that game for your teammate, your teammates. Yeah, I guess they can celebrate the MVP with you because your offensive line contributed to it, your wide receivers contribute to it. Maybe the defense helped you win some games that maybe you wouldn't have won and not gotten consideration. But I know what if you had won that super bowl against Denver, guess what? Everybody would have been able to share in that a lot more. A lot more fun. A lot more memories of sharing a Super bowl with your quarterback than an mvp.

[Don LaGreca]

You think you have better.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I don't even. I'm sorry, Alan. I was going to say, I don't even remotely believe Cam. I mean, first of all, let me just be real. We're paid for our opinions, right? I don't even know if I need Cam Newton the commentator. Can I just be clear? I'm not. I know he wears wacky hats and says crazy things. I don't know that I'm signing up for the Cam Newton the entertainer phase here, but whatever. That remains to be seen. But that was just an utter lie. I mean, lies the wrong word. He believed it, but he has to say that because it's the only thing he has. He can't go do the reverse. He can't become a champion now. So this guy had one of the great campaigns I've ever seen a quarterback have in 2015. I remember the Redskins playing Carolina that season. And Don, I don't know if you recall watching Panther games that year. He was one of those guys that season you were terrified to play.

[Don LaGreca]

He was a show.

[Alan Hahn]

He was amazing. He.

[Peter Rosenberg]

If they had the ball with. With 90 seconds left, you thought, I'm losing. That's how good he was. And then, of course, after the fumble in the super bowl and everything that happened, things all of a sudden fell off a cliff. Him and Ron Rivera couldn't get on the same page anymore. And before you know it, let's not forget, this guy's out of the league entirely too young. He should absolutely still be playing. Something didn't go right, and now he has to play revisionist history to support the position he's in now. It's a complete joke of an answer. No one remembers MVPs. Not in the. And this is why it was loaded. Alan, when you said initially Don said, am I a passenger? Because the answer, Don, if he had told you, no, no, no, I'm talking about a quarterback specifically, that would have made it even more clear that it's true.

[Alan Hahn]

He brought up all quarterbacks, right? He brought up Trent Dilfer, he brought up Brad Johnson, he brought up Nick Foles. So he brought up quarterbacks. So. Yeah, but you're.

[Don LaGreca]

But don't you also see that, too? Brad Johnson played a role, and it worked to win a championship. That role that he played was still in a critical role. Right? It still mattered. So, all right. Did he hand it off constantly? Was he really? Was he. It doesn't matter. You still were part of it.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Allen, we. This year, I'm sorry, Jalen hurts. We have a guy who's doing it in the super bowl next week in Jalen Hurts. He might throw for 135 yards. And guess what? If he wins a chip, he's forever in Philadelphia.

[Don LaGreca]

Thank you.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And he's going to get another contract when his deal's up. That's just how it is. So, listen, Cam was a hell of a player. It didn't work out, and now he's revising it to make it work. To me, it's a completely silly idea.

[Don LaGreca]

I completely agree. I think it's. Championships are about legacy, and legacy is how you are immortal in the sport, not awards. Dan in New Jersey. Dan, how you feel about this?

[Caller]

Hey, guys. Great, great show. I. I listen every day.

[Don LaGreca]

Thanks, man.

[Caller]

So for me, I. I'm not an athlete by any measure, but in fifth grade, I was on a little league team. I went over forever at the plate, but I had a couple of really good plays in the field, and I knocked the catcher over running. Running home because he moved up in the box.

[Don LaGreca]

Love it.

[Caller]

So we won the championship that year. We were 17 and 1. I can't remember too many things happening. But my father and I still talk about that as a cool thing because we were the champions of, like, 16. And that was, you know, just. It wouldn't have meant the same if I was a really good player on a team that didn't win. At least that's how I feel about it. And Dan, I think I still talk about it.

[Don LaGreca]

Dan. It's a perfect way to describe it, like, in. In layman's terms. And I don't mean that disrespectfully. I just mean for regular everybody else to understand. It's one thing as a pro. Of course, as a pro, like, it's a. It's. We can't relate to what that is, the highest level. But for anybody in your life, again, like, you know, I was. I. I mean, I was. I was all region. My team lost in the semifinal. I didn't care about being all region. I didn't care about any of that crap. You want to win. So even at that small level, I think we all can relate to it.

[Peter Rosenberg]

That's such a good point. Like, yes, of course, it was a cool note for you. And, you know, if people say, oh, how good were you a player? And you could say, oh, I was.

[Don LaGreca]

I threw that plaque out, Peter. I threw that plaque out.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Exactly.

[Don LaGreca]

I didn't keep it.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But if you would have won a.

[Don LaGreca]

Championship, I'd kick that forever.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah. I'm not saying that right now. When people mention Alan Hahn, the first thing they do is mention your sports championships again. I'LL tell you what, but I'll tell you what. I would, but you and your buddies would still remember about it.

[Don LaGreca]

Hell yeah. We. I still talk about it with some of my friends. But in high school, junior year, got to the final upset, the number one seed in the semifinal, lost in the championship. We're like, man, like, that's it. We don't have that. That's the legacy. Those are the things you think about not. Well, I was all league though, so at least I have that. No, you never talk like that as an athlete, ever.

[Alan Hahn]

Yeah, and we also, we also discuss.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Is it weird though, Alan, that's why he's sitting there doing first take over.

[Don LaGreca]

But for Cam to say it, that's awesome. Can I say it's on brand for him.

[Alan Hahn]

You think he's wearing those hats because it's comfortable? He's wearing those hats because he look at me. Yeah, he's a look at me guy. Now is that awful? Does that make him a bad person? No, but he's obviously somebody that's very self centered and looks at things more as the individual than in the team aspect.

[Don LaGreca]

Fair? Yeah, very fair. I think you're on mute.

[Alan Hahn]

Workday starting to sound the same.

[Caller]

I think you're on mute.

[Don LaGreca]

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[Alan Hahn]

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[Don LaGreca]

Thanks for listening to the Don Hahn and Rosenberg podcast.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I didn't listen to anything you just said.

[Don LaGreca]

Catch the show on demand whenever you want. Just subscribe to us wherever you get your podcasts. I like this beat.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Pom pom. That would be a Dr. Dre beat.

[Alan Hahn]

You know, we talk so much about, well, what did. What did Brad Johnson do? And his numbers are pedestrian. I'm not going to talk up that season. It wasn't about him.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I always say, as a way of living life, what would Brad Johnson do?

[Alan Hahn]

Dexter. Dexter Jackson won the MVP of that Super Bowl. All right, I get it. But you know what he didn't do? He didn't throw five picks in the super bowl like Rich Gannon did, costing his team a Super Bowl.

[Don LaGreca]

Yikes.

[Alan Hahn]

All right, so he threw. He was 18 of 34. 215, two touchdowns a pick. All right, not great. 79.9 rating. Again, nothing great. Didn't win the MVP. But you know what? Rich Gannon, who has won an MVP threw for 272 yards and two touchdowns. We also threw five picks, got sacked five times, had a rating of 48.9. So he cost his team a Super Bowl. So that. That's a difference. You know, in the super bowl, the Ravens won with Dilfer. He didn't throw a pick six like Kerry Collins did. Who was the better quarterback? You know, sometimes not making the mistake. You know, we say game manager and it's pejorative. Right?

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah.

[Alan Hahn]

But on certain teams, being the game manager and shelving your ego and not trying to do something you can't do and not costing yourself a team a game, that's good, too.

[Don LaGreca]

Can I throw a grenade into this whole thing, please? We're going to find out in a little. In a couple of days if Eli Manning is a. Right, right. First time hall of Famer.

[Alan Hahn]

Yeah. First ballad.

[Don LaGreca]

And eli Manning in two Super Bowls wasn't like he won the MVPs and stuff like that, but the defense was the foundation of that team's success. We all know this, right?

[Alan Hahn]

Oh, yeah. You could make the case that if they were able to award the defensive line the mvp.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah, yeah.

[Alan Hahn]

That. That would have probably been more.

[Don LaGreca]

And he went up against Tom Brady, who was arguably the better quarterback. Right. Like, as far as, like, success and everything else goes. Right. But he won the game, and winning is the only thing that. That really matters in these cases. And I just think we. Again, the Cam Newton thing was an interesting take, but it was very much on Brand for what we've gotten to know him to be, which is for him, the individual success is sort of like saying, well, I did my part, whereas the team success is, well, how much did I contribute to it? Because if I didn't contribute a lot like a guy like Brad Johnson, then I don't want to win. I'd rather have the individual success. And that is, I guess, like I said, on brand. All right, so, guys, there was an interesting take being made by taking an all time great. An all time great coach who suggested that the Lombardi Trophy, which is named after an all time great coach, be renamed. I think you'll recognize the voice.

[Alan Hahn]

Players win games. You can't win games without good players. I don't care who the coach is. It's impossible. You can't win without good players. Man, I didn't make any tackles. I didn't make any kicks. That was Vinateri that made that kick in four inches of snow. You got to have good players. And as a coach, you want to give your Players a chance to win. You want to put them in a position where if they go out there and play well, they'll have a chance to win. That's what Coach Barcelos taught me, is there's always a way to win. You just got to figure out what it is, and you have to give the players a chance. They don't name it the star trophy.

[Peter Rosenberg]

It's named the Lombardi Trophy.

[Alan Hahn]

Maybe they should name it the Brady trophy. He won seven of them. Didn't sound like he was overly serious.

[Don LaGreca]

Bill Belichick, the Let's Go podcast. So you. You think this was sort of just tongue in cheek?

[Alan Hahn]

Well, I think he's trying to compliment Brady and he's saying all the right things. Players win. Not necessarily coaches.

[Don LaGreca]

There's been a thaw between them, by the way. Have you noticed?

[Alan Hahn]

Well, yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Oh, definitely.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah.

[Alan Hahn]

But you can't take it away from Vince Lombardi. That's the thing, is, if it didn't have a name and you wanted to name it Tom Brady, like the NBA trophy. Well, it's Bill O'Brien trophy. Right. I'm not even know who.

[Don LaGreca]

Bill O'Brien. No, no. Larry O'Brien.

[Alan Hahn]

Larry O'Brien. I'm sorry.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah.

[Alan Hahn]

Who is Bill O'Brien? Former.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Texas.

[Alan Hahn]

I stayed in football.

[Peter Rosenberg]

He should also get a truck.

[Alan Hahn]

I stayed on brand. All right, so Larry O'Brien. All right. Not as familiar with his work as I am with who is. Honestly, I mean, really, should it be.

[Don LaGreca]

Stanley cup at this point? Shouldn't it be the Gretzky Cup?

[Alan Hahn]

Let's see that. No, that's a good point.

[Don LaGreca]

Or. Or. I mean, Stanley is long gone. He doesn't award it anymore.

[Alan Hahn]

Give it to Henry Richard. He won 10 of them. I. Or Scotty Bowman because of all the championships he won.

[Don LaGreca]

Players win.

[Alan Hahn]

But you want to say. But right from his point. But yeah, because Lord Stanley, nobody cares. All right, that's generations ago. Larry O'Brien. Most people couldn't point him out.

[Don LaGreca]

He was an architect of the NBA.

[Alan Hahn]

But Vince Lombardi is the foundation of football. The guy died of cancer while he was coaching the Washington Redskins. You're not taking it away from Vince Lombardi. Yeah. Tom Brady won more championships and maybe is more deserving by Bill Belichick's analysis. You're not taking it away from. You can't do that. Not the Vince Lombardi. No. You want to change Lord Stanley's cup to the. To the Gretzky Cup. If you wanted to change the Larry O'Brien to, I don't know. Would you? I guess you would get Bill Robinson, Bill Russell. Bill Russell.

[Don LaGreca]

They already gave him the. He's got the mvp, Right?

[Alan Hahn]

So. But if you wanted to give it to whoever.

[Don LaGreca]

You know, Michael Jordan, because the way he passed the Jordan Trophy.

[Alan Hahn]

Right, It's Jordan, whatever. That's different. But not. Not the Vince Lombardi Trophy. That's not right. This baseball doesn't have a name. Right.

[Don LaGreca]

It's a piece of tin.

[Alan Hahn]

It's only a piece of tin. Right?

[Don LaGreca]

Piece of tin.

[Alan Hahn]

If you wanted to name it the Mickey Mantle or the Joe DiMaggio, because all the Yogi Berra, because he wants.

[Don LaGreca]

That's what you name it after.

[Alan Hahn]

Then that's different. But you're not taking it away from Vince Lombardi. But here, right, Peter, hearing his tone, I don't think he's advocating for it. I think he's just throwing a compliment, a bouquet of roses to Brady. I don't think he's advocating for that to actually happen. Do you?

[Peter Rosenberg]

No. And, of course, I'm also being modest and saying, you know, maybe he gets a little bit too much of the credit. I mean, the funny thing is, when you go through the list of great quote players that Belichick had, you usually find yourself coming up short relative to other great teams. I mean, I think that when Andy Reid lists off the players that he had during his run in Kansas City, guys will probably be more impressed with the overall talent than we are, at least in the skill positions that Belichick had in New England. I mean, how many conversations you hearing about Dion Branch and Troy Brown in 2025?

[Alan Hahn]

Oh, listen. If for some reason the Vince Lombardi family said, I think it's time to rename the trophy, my prediction is they won't do that. They won't. But I'm just saying. And it came out that we're going to name it after a player, I'd be all for being Tom Brady, by the way.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I don't think I've ever told you this. I don't want to say too much, because I don't want to give away, like, actual personal information. Do you know, I don't think I've ever told you this. That by complete coincidence, Ballard's girlfriend, who now is essentially his wife. I mean, they live together and take care of her.

[Don LaGreca]

Domestic partner.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah, they're domestic partners. Her last name is Lombardi.

[Don LaGreca]

Don.

[Alan Hahn]

Really?

[Peter Rosenberg]

Is that not insane?

[Alan Hahn]

That is insane.

[Don LaGreca]

Great googly moogly. Does she have a trophy?

[Peter Rosenberg]

She doesn't have a tr. Well, I don't know how he describes things, but I just found it amazing. To spend your whole life a Packer fan and then the love of your life is Lombardi. It's just incredible.

[Alan Hahn]

Oh, by the way, Larry, I never.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Should have broken up with Denise Gibbs.

[Alan Hahn]

What do you think? Larry O'Brien was the NBA commissioner.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah.

[Alan Hahn]

From 75 to. I guess he retired in 84. He is in the Basketball hall of Fame.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah, that should, that should be the Stern trophy.

[Don LaGreca]

But I mean he, it was merger, merger.

[Alan Hahn]

Negotiated the first big television contract with cbs.

[Don LaGreca]

How about this fact? The Knicks never won the Larry O'Brien trophy.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Oh, cuz 73.

[Don LaGreca]

It was, it was something different. It was like a, it looked like a cup, this thing that they won.

[Alan Hahn]

I got to see it.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah. So it's different. So they had never won one of those. And now you know, that's why the.

[Alan Hahn]

Stanley cup is so cool. You got to give it back.

[Don LaGreca]

The fact that it's that old, that's.

[Alan Hahn]

Why you can't really mess with it.

[Don LaGreca]

No, it's the, I know everybody wants to talk about the World cup trophy, which is, it's, it is, it's the World Cup. It's not a cup.

[Alan Hahn]

Well, no, I, I, I, but, but.

[Don LaGreca]

It'S not a cup.

[Alan Hahn]

I know but I guess that's what they just call the tournament.

[Don LaGreca]

It doesn't make sense.

[Alan Hahn]

A lot of things don't make sense.

[Don LaGreca]

Counting up and I did this one thing. The, the best, the best trophies in sports. Right. And the Stanley cup is the greatest trophy. And I got all these soccer people and they are like ah, the World cup, it's not even a cup.

[Alan Hahn]

And do they, do they have to give it back? Do they make another?

[Don LaGreca]

Don't they make a whole bunch and everybody.

[Alan Hahn]

I don't know. I, I really, I'm, I'm ignorant on the subject.

[Don LaGreca]

I am too. But I just feel like the cup and the tradition of carrying it and holding it up over your head, drinking out of it. There's nothing better than that.

[Alan Hahn]

I got to do that. Which was cool. At Ken Danico's Barbecue after the 03 championship. Did you, I was telling, I was telling that the frame.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Where's the name drop button? I want, I want Don to catch one, one drop.

[Alan Hahn]

In all fairness, I drank from the cup. There were, it was, it was making a lids with Peter Rose. So I, I threw some coffee in and drank it. You kind of have to mention the why. That's not a drop.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But where did you do, where did you do it though? Where did you do it?

[Alan Hahn]

A form. What's that? Where did you do it? At Danico's barbecue.

[Peter Rosenberg]

There you go.

[Alan Hahn]

But you want.

[Don LaGreca]

You're going to want to know the.

[Alan Hahn]

Order, origin of why, like, oh, by the way, a former NHL player who won the cup invited me to his house and I drank. The first thing you say is who?

[Peter Rosenberg]

Listen, why are you getting offended by the name drop?

[Alan Hahn]

But I don't think it's very that level.

[Don LaGreca]

No, not as bad as me, is what you're saying.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Neither is Alan saying he ran into Mocheeks, but assistant coach on the Knicks.

[Don LaGreca]

I run into him every day.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Exactly.

[Alan Hahn]

And Don's friends with Danico me on Twitter. That is true. He does. I'd love to sit down and talk to Owen Nolan. You know, it's right up there.

[Don LaGreca]

Instead of doing the drop, Peter, whoever is, Whoever's the one dropping the other two should just together in unison do it.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah. I mean, it's tough, though. You never know.

[Caller]

And.

[Alan Hahn]

And.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And the Sweet Beastie Boys voice, you.

[Don LaGreca]

Know, that's a fair point. Hey, everybody, It's Super Box Bonanza 6. Each qualifier will take home an ESPN prize pack and have a chance at one of 10 Superbox prizes, including a Ninja air fryer. Those are great. Solo stove. Even better. Ray Ban Meta Wayfarers. I don't have those. And more be caller numbers. So Frank the tank picked 13 today. So caller number 13 right now at 888-987-ESPN. 888987 ESPN. And you get to select a box for the big game with a chance to win $250 in the first and third quarters, 500 for a halftime and a final score payout of $1,000. All brought to you by Teller Mardu Irish Whiskey Sloman Security and Security, Dodge Shop [e-mail] during their President's Day sales event. Thanks for listening to the Don Hahn and Rosenberg podcast. I don't want to know how the sausage is made, man. I just want to know. It's good. Hear more of Don Allen and Peter weekday afternoon starting at 3 on 880 ESPN, the ESPN New York app, and your smart speakers.