After being dominated by the Cavaliers, and Celtics in back-to-back games, Knicks fans were already in a somber mood. But things took a turn for the worse when on Monday, it was announced that former Knicks broadcaster, Al Trautwig had passed away at just 68 years old after battling an undisclosed form of cancer. While many now associate the Knicks’ excellent broadcast with Mike Breen, and Walt “Clyde” Frazier, two legends in their own right, many fans grew up listening to Trautwig on MSG. Despite the Knicks having some less than stellar years back then, Trautwig, through his recognizably deep voice, and passion for sports, always made Knicks game a pleasure to watch and listen to.
In a statement provided to The Post, MSG stated, “MSG Networks is truly saddened by the news of Al Trautwig’s passing,” the network said in a statement provided to The Post. “Al was a staple on MSG Networks’ Knicks, Rangers and Yankees coverage for more than 30 years, and his passion for the teams he covered was undeniable. He leaves behind one of the great legacies in New York sports broadcasting history. Our thoughts and prayers are with Al’s family and friends.”
The saddening news shocked many, and social media was flooded with posts by fans, content creators, former co-workers, and those in the industry, talking about not only how great he was at his craft, but just how great of a human being he was. Below are a few of those posts.
I’m sad to share the news that we lost a legendary voice in sports. But we lost a lot more than that.
He was not only a friend, but a mentor and a teacher. He was, personally, one of my biggest resources of support when I moved into this career.
Rest in peace, @AlTrautwig. pic.twitter.com/E1z3pxS2gm
— Alan Hahn (@alanhahn) February 24, 2025
For years, the first voice you’d hear on a Knicks broadcast on MSG was Al Trautwig. I grew up listening to and watching Al. Not only was he excellent at his job, but his presence is forever linked to some of the best basketball in the franchise’s history.
RIP AL. https://t.co/IyFKa8J3fb pic.twitter.com/52I5YLniSD
— DJ Zullo (@DJAceNBA) February 24, 2025
I have been blessed to work with some amazing broadcasters but there was no one better than Al Trautwig. He was meant to be on the air. Smooth. Unflappable. Al patiently walked a young writer through growing pains on TV. His lessons were invaluable. He was part of the soundtrack… https://t.co/qlgHnp2KO6
— Michael Kay (@RealMichaelKay) February 24, 2025
It’s been a sad few months losing some of the great people I worked w at @MSGNetworks. Al Trautwig’s influence, lessons & advice were unmatched. “Why are you
U writing so much? Bullet point facts, stats & just speak of what you know. Don’t memorize. TALK to fans watching”. RIP pic.twitter.com/m5r8P6mGFu— Tina Cervasio (@TinaCervasio) February 24, 2025
So terribly sad to hear of the passing of Al Trautwig. During my years broadcasting Islander games, whenever we brought in a new host/sideline reporter, if I was asked for advice I would simply say, “Just watch Al Trautwig”. The best to ever do it. RIP.
— Howie Rose (@HowieRose) February 24, 2025
The best compliment you can pay someone in this business is this: He/she makes a difficult job look easy. That was Al Trautwig. When Al warmly welcomed me to the MSG Network family years ago, it meant the world me. And he was always there when you needed him. RIP. https://t.co/vHvjvgKQM3
— Steve Cangialosi (@CangyApple) February 24, 2025
Al Trautwig — great broadcaster, greater guy, and just a credit to the profession in every way. https://t.co/CEadHnSTde
— Ian O’Connor (@Ian_OConnor) February 24, 2025
As you can see, Trautwig touched many lives with his work. And whether it was the Rangers, Yankees, or Knicks, Trautwig’s voice remains an integral part of a lot of fans and their memories of their favorite teams. While nothing has been announced by MSG, or the Knicks, it’s probably safe to assume that MSG will honor the beloved and respected broadcaster when the Knicks play against the Sixers on Wednesday.