Podcast Summary: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg – Hour 4: Last Call Crew
Podcast Information:
- Title: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg
- Hosts: Don LaGreca, Alan Hahn, Peter Rosenberg
- Episode: Hour 4: Last Call Crew
- Release Date: March 6, 2025
Introduction
In Episode Hour 4: Last Call Crew of the "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" podcast, hosts Don LaGreca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg delve deep into the latest happenings in New York sports, particularly focusing on the New York Knicks and Rangers. The episode is a blend of insightful sports analysis, lively banter, and engaging interactions with listeners, all while maintaining the dynamic energy that fans of ESPN New York appreciate.
Rangers Playoff Push and Don’s Upcoming Coverage
The episode kicks off with a discussion about the New York Rangers’ playoff aspirations. Don LaGreca shares his excitement about covering upcoming games:
Don LaGreca [01:59]: "I'll be in Ottawa Saturday. Oh, dream for a 12:30 face off and then 6:00 Sunday at home against Columbus."
Peter Rosenberg follows up, highlighting the rigorous schedule:
Peter Rosenberg [02:07]: "So Friday night you fly out... coming back with a team. You should get home at a decent hour."
The hosts discuss the Rangers' current standing and the impact of playoff coverage:
Don LaGreca [02:49]: "It's some big games. Ottawa, Columbus, all bunched up for a playoffs."
New York Knicks Analysis and Playoff Predictions
A significant portion of the episode centers on the New York Knicks' performance and playoff prospects. A caller, Michael, expresses frustration over optimistic yet seemingly unrealistic expectations for the Knicks:
Caller [03:12]: "I'm grossed out by all the fatalistic talk about these 2025 Knicks that somehow this is a building year and they don't have the mix to win at all."
Don and Peter engage in a spirited debate about the validity of such optimism:
Don LaGreca [03:46]: "That's the first time I can honestly say I get what Michael is saying... they've got the fourth best record in the NBA, but unfortunately, the defending champions are ahead of them."
Peter offers a balanced perspective, acknowledging the team's potential while recognizing current shortcomings:
Peter Rosenberg [05:27]: "There is a bit of a fatalistic attitude from some Knicks fans... This is a good team. They are not. They are just now getting fully healthy and now they're without Cat."
The discussion evolves into the challenges the Knicks face in the playoffs, particularly against formidable teams like the Celtics and Bucks:
Don LaGreca [04:17]: "Have the Knicks? No. And yet it doesn't matter because it's freaking March."
Coaching and Management Decisions
The conversation shifts towards coaching strategies and management decisions within sports teams. A caller named Ryan raises concerns about the Devils' management approach:
Caller Ryan [11:43]: "Where would you say in the NCAA tournament they have to finish for it to be like kind of a bust?"
Don and Peter deliberate on the balance between maintaining a stable coaching regime versus making necessary changes to achieve success.
Historic Sports Moments and Venue Memories
The hosts reminisce about historic sports achievements and memorable venues. Discussions include legendary athletes like Jim Abbott and Zach Gowen, and iconic locations such as Yankee Stadium and the Asbury Park Convention Center:
Caller [07:11]: "Jim Abbott, to pitch in the major leagues with one hand. That is unbelievable."
Don adds personal anecdotes about attending events at the Asbury Park Convention Center:
Don LaGreca [08:39]: "They have had concerts there between the 70s and 80s, like Allman Brothers, Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, Korn, Marilyn Manson."
Peter’s New Venture: WWE Evolve Play-by-Play Commentary
Peter Rosenberg shares his new endeavor of providing play-by-play commentary for WWE Evolve on Tubi. He discusses the challenges of transitioning into this role and the excitement surrounding the project:
Peter Rosenberg [31:15]: "I will say, Don, the biggest challenge of doing this job... you just don't pretend play by play is that the talent's all new."
Don offers encouragement, highlighting the potential success of this new venture:
Don LaGreca [31:55]: "You got to see how it's gonna come out. So that should be great."
Listener Interactions and Personal Stories
Throughout the episode, listeners call in with a variety of questions and personal stories, adding depth and relatability to the discussion. From pet losses to personal struggles, the hosts ensure that every caller feels heard and appreciated:
Caller Jonathan [44:14]: "At the end of the night... I just pray and I just thank God for what I do got and what I don't get it."
Don and Peter respond with empathy, reinforcing the supportive nature of the show:
Peter Rosenberg [45:33]: "I got to tell you, Jonathan, I just started seeing that move around Yesterday... That's why wrestling is great."
Final Thoughts on Team Dynamics and Future Outlooks
As the episode nears its end, Don and Peter reflect on team dynamics, championship windows, and the future outlooks for various sports franchises. They discuss the Kansas City Chiefs' potential decline and the broader implications for team management:
Don LaGreca [38:58]: "They're going to go to a fourth consecutive Super Bowl. Like, just wrap your mind around."
Peter emphasizes the inevitability of change and the importance of recognizing when a team's championship window is closing:
Peter Rosenberg [41:20]: "Membership means more with American Express Business Gold... What do you waiting for?"
Conclusion and Closing Remarks
The episode wraps up with heartfelt thanks to listeners and a reminder of upcoming coverage, including Don's Rangers pregame show and Peter's debut commentary on WWE Evolve. The hosts encourage listeners to engage with their new projects and stay tuned for more insightful sports discussions.
Notable Quotes:
- Don LaGreca [01:59]: "I'll be in Ottawa Saturday. Oh, dream for a 12:30 face off and then 6:00 Sunday at home against Columbus."
- Caller Michael [03:12]: "...I miss the taste of Steve Hart's nuts."
- Peter Rosenberg [05:27]: "They are just now getting fully healthy and now they're without Cat."
- Don LaGreca [08:39]: "...they have had concerts there between the 70s and 80s, like Allman Brothers, Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, Korn, Marilyn Manson."
- Peter Rosenberg [31:15]: "I'm doing research on who all of them are. Yeah, it's hard, man."
- Don LaGreca [38:58]: "They're going to go to a fourth consecutive Super Bowl. Like, just wrap your mind around."
- Caller Jonathan [44:14]: "I just pray and I just thank God for what I do got and what I don't get it."
Conclusion Hour 4 of "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of current sports events, particularly focusing on the New York Knicks and Rangers. Through a combination of expert analysis, listener interactions, and personal anecdotes, the hosts provide a rich listening experience that caters both to hardcore sports enthusiasts and casual fans alike. The episode successfully balances serious sports discourse with moments of levity and personal connection, making it a standout installment in the series.