Summary of Don, Hahn & Rosenberg Podcast Episode: Hour 4: NYR-NYI & Luka

Released February 26, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of the "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" podcast, the hosts—Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg—delve deep into the upcoming New York Rangers (NYR) versus New York Islanders (NYI) game. They analyze the current standings, team performances, historical rivalries, and the broader implications for the NHL playoffs. Additionally, the hosts engage with listener calls, sharing personal stories and insights on various sports topics beyond hockey.

NY Rangers vs. NY Islanders Game Analysis

Standings and Importance

The Rangers and Islanders are neck-and-neck in the standings, making their upcoming clash at UBS crucial for their playoff aspirations. Don Hahn confirms the current points: "The Rangers have 60 points, the Islanders have 57." (02:00). Both teams are vying for those essential playoff points, heightening the stakes of this matchup.

Team Performance and Analysis

Peter Rosenberg highlights the underwhelming performances of both teams this season but emphasizes the intensified rivalry when they face off: "When they face each other, it's always an event and it generally seems to have a little more juice to it." (02:05).

Don Hahn critiques the Islanders' performance, pointing out significant injuries and weak offensive capabilities: "I'd love to see the Rangers have a much better chance, Peter, just because of that fact that their special teams for the Islanders are just so." (04:26).

Special Teams Impact

The Islanders struggle notably in special teams, ranking 32nd on the power play: "Their special teams are huge... But you don't have Barzell. You're so banged up offensively, you don't get anything out of your special teams at all." (03:29). Rosenberg underscores the detrimental effect of poor special teams on playoff chances: "The only thing that keeps them in the conversation is Sorokin." (03:29).

Historical Rivalry

The hosts reminisce about the storied rivalry between the Rangers and Islanders, recalling intense playoff series from the '70s and '80s: "These series were knockdown, drag out, and it was like you were dividing families." (09:59). Don Hahn laments the decline in rivalry intensity in recent years: "I cannot remember the last time I've heard [the 'Pop Van Sucks' chant]." (12:22).

Host Opinions and Predictions

Both hosts agree that the upcoming game is pivotal. Don Hahn predicts dire consequences for the losing team: "A loss in regulation would be really tough for whoever had suffered it." (08:54). Peter Rosenberg echoes this sentiment, referring to it as "the first nail" in the coffin for playoff hopes: "If the Islanders lose this game in regulation, it would feel like it." (08:54).

Notable Quotes

• Don Hahn (05:38): "Sorokin is the great equalizer. If he can get on a toot here, maybe there's a chance."
• Peter Rosenberg (02:05): "When they face each other, it's always an event and it generally seems to have a little more juice to it."
• Don Hahn (04:26): "The Islanders are chasing the Senators and the Red Wings. They got to get past the Rangers, but there's bigger fish to fry here."

Listener Engagement and Calls

The episode features several listener calls, bringing personal anecdotes and broader sports discussions to the forefront.

Notable Calls and Discussions

• Richard's Nostalgia (15:04): Richard reflects on past sports triumphs and the impact of figures like Joe Frazier, highlighting his decline post-championship: "Frazier was never the same. He never trained the same." This segues into a broader discussion on legendary sports broadcasts.

• Alan Hanson's Personal Story (31:10): Alan shares heartfelt news about his daughter's discharge from the hospital, expressing gratitude towards the hosts for their support during challenging times: "While I was waiting for the doctor for these hard, hard news, you guys always wear my ear and always put a smile on my face."

• Sports Trivia and Anecdotes (Various Timestamps): Listeners engage in sports trivia, share memories of iconic moments, and discuss the hosts' experiences at games, enriching the conversation with diverse perspectives.

Other Sports Topics Discussed

Beyond hockey, the hosts touch upon a variety of sports topics, offering their insights and opinions.

NFL - Aaron Rodgers Trade

The recent trade of Aaron Rodgers by the New York Jets sparks a lively debate. Alan Hanson expresses frustration with the decision: "I'm already beyond frustrated with this regimen... How is this the first move you make?" (32:22). The discussion centers on the implications of trading a franchise quarterback and the future direction of the team.

NBA - Luka Doncic and Upcoming Games

Peter Rosenberg discusses Luka Doncic's potential performance in a game against his former team, the Dallas Mavericks: "The over under for him tonight... 32 and a half points. You taking the over or under?" (27:31). This segues into a broader conversation about Luka's impact and future in the NBA.

Women's Basketball - Diana Taurasi

The hosts celebrate the illustrious career of Diana Taurasi, deeming her the greatest in women's basketball history: "She's the most decorated player in women's basketball history... That's what she is." (44:23). They commend her achievements and longevity in the sport.

Notable Quotes

• Don Hahn (35:07): "President's Trophy winners get bounced in the first round... hockey is the one sport..."
• Peter Rosenberg (44:37): "Diana Taurasi... the standard when it comes to point guards, ... She's the best to ever do it."

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with reflections on the significance of the NY Rangers vs. NY Islanders game and its potential impact on the NHL playoffs. The hosts emphasize the importance of fan engagement, historical context, and the ever-evolving dynamics of sports rivalries. Personal stories from listeners add a heartfelt dimension to the analytical discussions, making for a comprehensive and engaging episode.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Don Hahn (02:00): "The Rangers have 60 points, the Islanders have 57."
• Peter Rosenberg (02:05): "When they face each other, it's always an event and it generally seems to have a little more juice to it."
• Don Hahn (03:05): "But you got two points that both teams desperately need."
• Don Hahn (04:26): "The Islanders are chasing the Senators and the Red Wings. They got to get past the Rangers, but there's bigger fish to fry here."
• Peter Rosenberg (08:54): "If the Islanders lose this game in regulation, it would feel like it."
• Don Hahn (12:22): "I cannot remember the last time I've heard [the 'Pop Van Sucks' chant]."
• Peter Rosenberg (15:27): "What happened with Frazier after he won that fight, the first one at the Garden with Ali? He was never the same."
• Alan Hanson (31:07): "While I was waiting for the doctor for these hard, hard news, you guys always wear my ear and always put a smile on my face."
• Peter Rosenberg (44:23): "She's the most decorated player in women's basketball history... That's what she is."

For those who haven’t listened to the episode, this summary provides a comprehensive overview of the key discussions, insights, and emotional moments shared by the hosts and their listeners.