Don, Hahn & Rosenberg: Episode Hour 4 - Last Call Crew

Release Date: July 2, 2025

Introduction to the Episode

The fourth hour of the "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" podcast dives deep into a blend of sports analysis and musical nostalgia, interspersed with lively interactions from listeners. Hosted by Don LaGreca, Don Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg, the episode balances discussions on the NHL, the New York Rangers' roster strategies, and a passionate debate about top American bands, particularly focusing on the grunge movement.

NHL Insights and Rangers Roster Strategies

The conversation kicks off with insights into the New York Rangers' recent performance and strategic moves.

Don LaGreca highlights the importance of solid defensive players in rejuvenating key talents:

"You're trying to rejuvenate Adam Fox as a legit right. Right. Like, this is the Norris Trophy guy. So you got to put somebody next to him that allows him to be the player he can be." [01:32]

Peter Rosenberg adds depth to the discussion by analyzing player injuries and their impacts:

"I think the shoulder...[Fox's] injury was two years ago, and he re-injured it this year." [03:03]

The hosts debate the financial strategies of acquiring players like Mike Brown and the importance of managing the team's salary cap to potentially attract high-profile free agents like Connor McDavid.

Peter Rosenberg emphasizes the necessity of financial foresight:

"You want to make sure that if it could happen, that you've got the ability to make it happen." [04:17]

Don LaGreca concurs, stressing the importance of readiness over mere hope:

"What you don't want is for a player like that to get on the market and say, you know, I would have gone to New York, right? You know, they were all capped out." [04:36]

Musical Nostalgia: Top American Bands and Grunge Legacy

Transitioning from sports, the trio engages in a nostalgic exploration of top American bands, with a special focus on the grunge era.

A caller from Newark, Jay, initiates the discussion by championing Nirvana:

"Nirvana is an important part of rock history. The Unplugged was amazing." [07:13]

Peter Rosenberg acknowledges the impact of Nirvana's "Unplugged" performance:

"Oh, it's probably one of the better unplugs." [07:27]

The conversation evolves to comparisons between Nirvana and other contemporary bands like Alice in Chains and Foo Fighters. Don LaGreca reminisces about the physicality of players like Ryan Lindgren, drawing parallels to the raw energy of grunge music.

Peter Rosenberg reflects on the enduring legacy of grunge bands and their influence on modern music:

"Nirvana hit this country like it's nothing we've ever seen before the sound. And it opened the doors for all those other bands." [09:26]

Another caller, Marco from Charlotte, introduces bands like Stone Sour and Red Hot Chili Peppers into the conversation. The hosts discuss the depth of these bands' catalogs and their cultural impact.

Don LaGreca appreciates the extensive body of work from bands like Chicago:

"A million songs." [18:31]

The dialogue underscores the lasting influence of these bands and their essential place in American music history.

Listener Interactions and Call-In Highlights

Throughout the episode, listeners contribute their viewpoints, enriching the discussion with diverse perspectives.

• Jay from Newark emphasizes the tragic legacy of Kurt Cobain and the enduring aura of Nirvana, advocating for their recognition in rock history.

• Marco from Charlotte brings attention to underrated bands like Stone Sour and inquires about the inclusion of Red Hot Chili Peppers in the top five list, prompting discussions on commercial success versus artistic impact.

• Angelo from Mawa expresses appreciation for the mention of Stone Sour, highlighting the band's underrated status.

• Anthony from Keyport suggests adding Allman Brothers, Rage Against the Machine, and Steely Dan to the top bands list, introducing a broader spectrum of rock genres into the conversation.

Don LaGreca humorously navigates technical difficulties during the call-ins, adding a light-hearted element to the episode:

"Let’s throw it right through that window." [20:51]

Technical Glitches and Light-Hearted Banter

Towards the end of the episode, the hosts experience technical issues, leading to a comedic exchange about frozen screens and broken equipment. This segment showcases the hosts' camaraderie and ability to maintain humor amidst challenges.

Peter Rosenberg laments the technical mishap:

"I'm a moron." [16:07]

Don LaGreca jokes about the consequences of their technical issues:

"It's hurting the show, man." [21:10]

The banter concludes with a playful nod to upcoming segments and events, maintaining the episode's engaging and relaxed atmosphere.

Conclusion and Upcoming Events

In wrapping up, the hosts promote upcoming events such as the ESPN New York Tee Up Golf Challenge, encouraging listeners to participate and support charitable causes like the Garden of Dreams Foundation.

Don LaGreca invites listeners to join the event:

"You can lock in your foursome now on the ESPN New York app." [16:07]

The episode concludes with a reminder to tune in for future discussions, promising more engaging content on sports and music.

Notable Quotes Overview

• Don LaGreca on rejuvenating Adam Fox:

  "You're trying to rejuvenate Adam Fox as a legit right." [01:32]

• Peter Rosenberg on managing cap space:

  "You want to make sure that if it could happen, that you've got the ability to make it happen." [04:17]

• Don LaGreca on Nirvana's impact:

  "Nirvana hit this country like it's nothing we've ever seen before the sound." [09:26]

• Peter Rosenberg on technical difficulties:

  "I'm a moron." [16:07]

Final Thoughts

This episode of "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" effectively balances in-depth sports analysis with passionate musical discussions, enriched by active listener participation. The hosts' dynamic interactions and insightful commentary make for an engaging listen, appealing to both sports enthusiasts and music aficionados alike.

For more episodes and updates, subscribe to the "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" podcast on ESPN New York, available on the ESPN New York app and your preferred podcast platforms.