The New York Knicks are on the brink of a thrilling playoff series against the Atlanta Hawks at Madison Square Garden, but there’s a shadow looming over the excitement: fans won’t get to hear the iconic voices of Mike Breen and Clyde Frazier.
This year, changes to the media rights landscape—thanks to a deal involving ESPN, NBC, and Amazon—mean that the first round of the playoffs will only feature national broadcasters. Regional sports networks have been cut out of the picture.
In a candid moment during the final regular season matchup against the Charlotte Hornets, Breen voiced his concerns, stating, “This is the first time ever that home team announcers and broadcasters cannot televise the first round. The entire playoffs are exclusive to national TV partners. I mentioned this earlier this season; I personally think, [Walt ‘Clyde’ Frazier], it’s a poor decision.”
Mike Breen: “1st time ever…entire playoffs exclusive to national TV…poor decision…fans want to hear their home team announcers, at least 1st round…part of the family. I get networks pay a fortune…but fans deserve to be thrown a bone…This is our final telecast of the season” pic.twitter.com/knsUysK261
— New York Basketball (@NBA_NewYork) April 12, 2026
Breen elaborated that local broadcasters often feel like family to their audience, playing a crucial role in the emotional connection fans have to their teams.
Breen Hopes League, Streamers Could Let RSNs Air Games — Calls It Unlikely
This change is significant for the playoff environment, and Knicks fans are eager for the return of the familiar voices they’ve cherished through many seasons. Breen mentioned that it would be incredible if the league and streaming services could reach an agreement allowing regional sports networks to air the games. However, he also expressed skepticism about the likelihood of that happening.
“Obviously, I work for one of the networks [ESPN], and it’s important for them… If there’s any way they could ever work out some kind of compromise. I’m not hopeful for that, but it would be wonderful to have it,” Breen remarked.
The disappointment among fans and insiders regarding the new media rights is palpable. Breen’s voice is yet another facet of the collective frustration surrounding this significant change. As the playoff excitement builds, every fan has their predictions and wishes for which teams will rise to the top. Shaquille O’Neal even chimed in with his bold assessment of the Knicks’ chances for success.
