The Dan Patrick Show – Hour 2: Hall of Very Good with Mike “Doc” Emrick
Release Date: May 6, 2025 | Host: Dan Patrick | Network: iHeartPodcasts and Dan Patrick Podcast Network

Introduction

In the second hour of The Dan Patrick Show, host Dan Patrick delves into the intriguing concept of the "Hall of Very Good" with beloved sports commentator Mike “Doc” Emrick as a special guest. The episode blends lively sports discussions, audience engagement through polls, and insightful commentary from both the hosts and their callers, all while maintaining Dan Patrick's signature humor and in-depth analysis.

Sports Highlights and Discussions

The hour kicks off with Dan Patrick and his co-hosts—Todd, Seaton, Marv, and Paulie—reviewing the latest basketball games. They analyze key matchups and standout performances:

• Pacers vs. Cavs and Warriors: The Pacers are discussed as nine-point underdogs taking on the Cavs and Warriors, with efforts to sustain their winning streak by stealing game one on the road.

• Knicks vs. Celtics: A thrilling recap of the Knicks' comeback victory over the Celtics is provided, highlighting the Celtics' missed 45 three-pointers and the Knicks' resilience in overtime. Dan notes, “If you're a Knicks team, you'll take any win you're going to get” (03:15).

• Nuggets vs. Thunder: The Nuggets' buzzer-beater win against the Thunder, featuring Aaron Gordon's impressive 42 points and 22 rebounds, is another focal point. Dan humorously remarks on Gordon winning game one, “Not another one of those nights” (04:05).

Throughout these discussions, statistical highlights and personal anecdotes enrich the conversation, offering listeners both factual insights and entertaining banter.

Polls and Audience Engagement

Dan engages the audience with several poll questions, revealing interesting trends and sparking debate:

1. Which team will advance? Knicks, Nuggets, or neither?
   Current Results: Neither (44%), Nuggets (42%), Knicks (14%)
   Dan comments, “Nobody's got a lot of faith in the Knicks” (06:15).

2. Which do you prefer, analytics or gut?
   Current Results: Gut (86%)
   Dan expresses skepticism, “That is the wrong answer. Those analytics right there are very wrong” (07:00).

3. Aaron Gordon, Hall of Fame: Very Good or Pretty Good?
   Current Results: Pretty Good (58%), Very Good (6%)
   Dan dismisses Gordon’s Hall of Fame prospects, “Aaron Gordon is not a Hall of Famer” (08:00).

These polls not only engage listeners but also highlight the hosts' perspectives on current sports debates, particularly the role of analytics versus intuition in coaching decisions.

Hall of Very Good Concept

A significant portion of the hour is dedicated to exploring the "Hall of Very Good," a tongue-in-cheek alternative to the traditional Hall of Fame. Paul Pabst introduces the concept, leading to a vibrant discussion among the hosts:

• Proposed Members: Kevin Johnson, Latrell Sprewell, Peja Stojakovic, Sean Kemp, Jermaine O'Neill, Penny Hardaway, Rip Hamilton, Antoine Jameson, Rasheed Wallace, and Elton Brand.

• Debate Points: The hosts evaluate whether these players deserve a spot in the traditional Hall of Fame or if they fit better in the humorous “Hall of Very Good.” Dan argues, “Rip Hamilton is not in the basketball hall of Fame. He is in a collegiate basketball hall of Fame” (10:56), prompting further scrutiny of player achievements and contributions.

Transition to Guest: Mike “Doc” Emrick

As the discussion heats up, Dan introduces the special guest, Mike “Doc” Emrick, a revered former hockey play-by-play voice and Hall of Famer. The anticipation builds as listeners prepare for an in-depth conversation with one of hockey’s most iconic commentators.

Interview with Mike “Doc” Emrick

Retirement and Career Reflections

Doc Emrick shares insights into his decision to retire, emphasizing the physical and emotional demands of play-by-play commentary. He reflects, “The travel was starting to get to me and I wanted to be home more” (24:01), highlighting the importance of work-life balance after a storied career.

Hall of Fame Perspectives

A central theme of the interview revolves around the Hall of Fame versus the Hall of Very Good. Emrick offers his expert opinion on notable players:

• Alex Ovechkin vs. Sidney Crosby: Emrick passionately argues, “When you force me into that corner and the paint is still not dried, I choose Sid” (29:01), favoring Crosby's leadership and consistency over Ovechkin's goal-scoring prowess despite Ovechkin breaking Gretzky's record.

• Draymond Green’s Hall of Fame Candidacy: Emrick expresses skepticism about Green's Hall of Fame potential based purely on statistics, noting, “He never averaged double digit rebounds” (08:54), while acknowledging his intangible contributions to team dynamics.

Play-by-Play Insights

Emrick delves into the nuances of play-by-play commentary, emphasizing accuracy and emotional control. He advises aspiring commentators, “You have to be right on it… you have to be in control of your emotions so that you don't overdo it” (32:27). Discussing memorable moments, he reminisces about historic games and the critical role of referees in maintaining game integrity.

Personal Anecdotes and Memorable Moments

Emrick shares anecdotes from his illustrious career, including interactions with legendary players and behind-the-scenes experiences. He recounts the moment Alex Ovechkin surpassed Wayne Gretzky’s goal-scoring record, highlighting Ovechkin’s dedication: “He came in and scored seven goals in the first two games” (27:00).

Conclusion

As the hour wraps up, Dan Patrick and Doc Emrick summarize their discussions, reinforcing the value of recognizing "very good" players who may not make it to the traditional Hall of Fame but have left significant marks on the game. The episode closes with a tease about upcoming segments and future guest appearances, maintaining the show's engaging and informative momentum.

Notable Quotes:

• Dan Patrick on analytics vs. gut: “That is the wrong answer. Those analytics right there are very wrong.” (07:00)
• Paul Pabst on Hall of Very Good members: “Tom Chambers should be in the hall of Fame. He should have been better.” (07:36)
• Doc Emrick on Crosby vs. Ovechkin: “When you force me into that corner and the paint is still not dried, I choose Sid.” (29:01)

This comprehensive discussion not only entertains but also provokes thought on how we honor athletic excellence beyond traditional accolades.