It’s mid-may – the weather is heating up and so Is the NHL, where round three of the playoffs, the Conference Finals, are underway.
In the Western conference, the Anaheim Ducks are battling the Chicago Blackhawks, in a series currently tied 1-1. In the first game of the matchup, Anaheim defeated Chicago, 4-1. The Ducks scored a goal in each of the first two periods and closed out the game with two more goals in the final period. Chicago scored its single goal in the second period. In Game 2, Chicago came out strong, scoring two goals in the first period. Anaheim scored one goal in each of the first two periods. The third period was scoreless and therefore the game went into overtime. And not just one overtime – the game proceeded to triple OT! There are no ties in hockey playoffs so the show had to continue. Despite Ducks goalie Frederik Andersen making 53 saves in the game, it just wasn’t enough. In the third period of OT, Marcus Kruger was able to score for Chicago, allowing the Blackhawks to come out victorious. The first two games were in Anaheim and the next two in the best-of-seven series will be in Chicago. Game three will take place on Thursday, May 21st.
In the Eastern conference, the New York Rangers and the Tampa Bay Lightning are also tied 1-1. The first two games were held in New York and the series has now moved to Tampa. In Game 1, the Rangers won 2-1, as the Lightning were only able to score one goal in the final period. In Game 2, Tampa Bay creamed New York, winning 6-3. The Lightning scored two goals in the first period, one in the second and finished the game with three goals in the third period. New York scored a goal in the first period and again in the second, but were no matchup for the Lightning’s offense. A key to victory for the Rangers in Game 3 will be to stay out of the penalty box. The Lightning had decent success in the second game as a result of power play opportunities. The Rangers must also find a way to stop Tampa Bay’s line that includes Tyler Johnson, Nikita Kucherov and Ondrej Palat, who have scored half of the Lightning’s post season goals thusfar. For Tampa Bay to come out victorious, the team will need to play strong in the middle as they did in the last game, and will also need to play physical. Game 3 takes place Wednesday night and Game 4 is scheduled for Friday, May 22nd.
Thursday, May 21, 2015
Monday, May 11, 2015
NBA Playoffs
The most magical time of the year for professional basketball fans is from April through mid-June, where the NBA Playoffs take place. Or as the NBA’s slogan states: Where Amazing Happens. Killer dunks, big blocks, smooth 3-pointers, beautiful passes and total teamwork take place on the court.
The 2015 NBA playoffs are under way, with the Eastern and Western Semi-Conference Finals. Each series is determined by the best of seven games. In the East, the Chicago Bulls are battling the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Atlanta Hawks are taking on the Washington Wizards. Even with their star John Wall out due to a hand injury, the Wizards have taken a 2-1 lead over the Atlanta Hawks in the series, most recently beating the Hawks on Saturday night. The Atlanta Hawks have played remarkably well this season due in large part to their stars, Al Horford, Jeff Teague and Kyle Korver. While they managed to move past the first round of the playoffs, defeating the Brooklyn Nets, they have historically struggled to move forward in the post-season.
The Bulls beat the Milwaukee Bucks in six games. In Game 6, they sent a message loud and clear that they were the better team, defeating the Bucks by a solid 54 points. The Cavs swept the Boston Celtics in the first round, but are currently down 2-1 in their series with the Bulls. Derek Rose hit an amazing buzzer beater shot in Game 3, allowing the Bulls to take the victory. Many expect this to be a close series and go the full seven games as Lebron James and Derrick Rose attempt to take their teams all the way.
In the Western semi-conference finals, the Golden State Warriors are facing off against the Memphis Grizzlies and the Los Angeles Clippers are facing the Houston Rockets. The LA Clippers had a hard-earned victory over the reigning champion San Antonio Spurs in the first round of the playoffs, going to all seven games. The Houston Rockets beat their cross-state Texas rivals, the Dallas Mavericks in round 1 of the playoffs and are now down 2-1 against Blake Griffin and the Clippers. The Rockets have Dwight Howard and James Harden, who was considered a top contender for the MVP title.
The Warriors defeated the New Orleans Pelicans in a 4-game sweep. Warriors Stephen Curry was also named the NBA’s MVP of the season. The Grizzlies defeated Portland in round 1 and face off against the Warriors again Saturday night at home. Currently, the series is tied 1-1.
After this round concludes, the conference finals will take place and then the NBA Championship series will occur.
The 2015 NBA playoffs are under way, with the Eastern and Western Semi-Conference Finals. Each series is determined by the best of seven games. In the East, the Chicago Bulls are battling the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Atlanta Hawks are taking on the Washington Wizards. Even with their star John Wall out due to a hand injury, the Wizards have taken a 2-1 lead over the Atlanta Hawks in the series, most recently beating the Hawks on Saturday night. The Atlanta Hawks have played remarkably well this season due in large part to their stars, Al Horford, Jeff Teague and Kyle Korver. While they managed to move past the first round of the playoffs, defeating the Brooklyn Nets, they have historically struggled to move forward in the post-season.
The Bulls beat the Milwaukee Bucks in six games. In Game 6, they sent a message loud and clear that they were the better team, defeating the Bucks by a solid 54 points. The Cavs swept the Boston Celtics in the first round, but are currently down 2-1 in their series with the Bulls. Derek Rose hit an amazing buzzer beater shot in Game 3, allowing the Bulls to take the victory. Many expect this to be a close series and go the full seven games as Lebron James and Derrick Rose attempt to take their teams all the way.
In the Western semi-conference finals, the Golden State Warriors are facing off against the Memphis Grizzlies and the Los Angeles Clippers are facing the Houston Rockets. The LA Clippers had a hard-earned victory over the reigning champion San Antonio Spurs in the first round of the playoffs, going to all seven games. The Houston Rockets beat their cross-state Texas rivals, the Dallas Mavericks in round 1 of the playoffs and are now down 2-1 against Blake Griffin and the Clippers. The Rockets have Dwight Howard and James Harden, who was considered a top contender for the MVP title.
The Warriors defeated the New Orleans Pelicans in a 4-game sweep. Warriors Stephen Curry was also named the NBA’s MVP of the season. The Grizzlies defeated Portland in round 1 and face off against the Warriors again Saturday night at home. Currently, the series is tied 1-1.
After this round concludes, the conference finals will take place and then the NBA Championship series will occur.
Saturday, May 2, 2015
Tampa Bay Lightning
The Tampa Bay Lightning defeated the Detroit Red Wings in the first round of the NHL playoffs earlier this week. This series went the full seven games as neither team could gain enough momentum for back-to-back wins until the final two.
In Game 1, the Red Wings defeated the Lightning, 3-2. In Game 2, Tampa Bay won with a score of 5-1. The victory for Game 3 went back to the Red Wings, where goalie Petr Mrazek was able to shutout the Lightning. The Red Wings won, 3-0. In Game 4, the Lightning defeated Detroit, 3-2. Detroit had similar results to Game 3 in Game 5, where Mrazek was able to execute another shutout. In Game 6, the Lightning came out victorious with a final score of 5-2. In Game 7, the Lightning were able to repeat success, winning the game 2-0. Lightning goalie, Ben Bishop made 31 saves in the final game. Defensemen Braydon Coburn scored the game winning goal and defensemen Anton Stralman followed that up with the game-sealing goal.
Despite being the second leading scorer in the NHL’s regular season (43 goals), Lightning Center Steven Stamkos was shutout from scoring in the Detroit series. With so much focus on defending him from Tampa Bay’s opponents, opportunities have opened for other Lightning players to make big plays, not just in the Detroit series, but throughout the season. With a strong combination of young, energetic players and experienced veterans including recent player acquisitions, the Lightning are in a good position to continue advancing through the playoffs.
The Lightning begin the second round of the playoffs on Friday vs. the Montreal Canadiens. The Lightning went 5-0 when facing the Canadiens in the regular season this year. Bishop was in goal for each of these five matchups. Each team had to work hard to earn its place here playing past the first round. The biggest key to victory for the Lightning is to keep Stamkos and Bishop playing at their full potential.
In Game 1, the Red Wings defeated the Lightning, 3-2. In Game 2, Tampa Bay won with a score of 5-1. The victory for Game 3 went back to the Red Wings, where goalie Petr Mrazek was able to shutout the Lightning. The Red Wings won, 3-0. In Game 4, the Lightning defeated Detroit, 3-2. Detroit had similar results to Game 3 in Game 5, where Mrazek was able to execute another shutout. In Game 6, the Lightning came out victorious with a final score of 5-2. In Game 7, the Lightning were able to repeat success, winning the game 2-0. Lightning goalie, Ben Bishop made 31 saves in the final game. Defensemen Braydon Coburn scored the game winning goal and defensemen Anton Stralman followed that up with the game-sealing goal.
Despite being the second leading scorer in the NHL’s regular season (43 goals), Lightning Center Steven Stamkos was shutout from scoring in the Detroit series. With so much focus on defending him from Tampa Bay’s opponents, opportunities have opened for other Lightning players to make big plays, not just in the Detroit series, but throughout the season. With a strong combination of young, energetic players and experienced veterans including recent player acquisitions, the Lightning are in a good position to continue advancing through the playoffs.
The Lightning begin the second round of the playoffs on Friday vs. the Montreal Canadiens. The Lightning went 5-0 when facing the Canadiens in the regular season this year. Bishop was in goal for each of these five matchups. Each team had to work hard to earn its place here playing past the first round. The biggest key to victory for the Lightning is to keep Stamkos and Bishop playing at their full potential.
Wednesday, April 29, 2015
NFL Draft
As the NFL Draft gets closer each day, predictions for picks are running high by analysts and fans alike. Will FSU quarterback Jameis Winston go #1 or will be it be Oregon quarterback Marcus Mariota?
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have the first pick and many people predict the team will select Winston. From a marketing and revenue standpoint, Winston is the clear winner. With a large Seminole alumni and fan base, the interest is already there. The Bucs have continued to struggle in recent years. While his on-field performance, Winston has proven his skills countless times, however his off-field behavior and decisions have many questioning his character and may impose a risk for any potential teams.
Both Winston and Mariota had successful seasons and have proven their capabilities in high-pressure games. In addition to the Bucs, the Tennessee Titans, Jacksonville Jaguars, Oakland Raiders and Washington Redskins have the other top four picks, respectively. Offensive linebacker Dante Fowler Jr. (Florida), defensive end Leonard Williams (USC), wide receiver Amari Cooper (Alabama), offensive linebacker Vic Beasley (Clemson), guard Brandon Scherff (Iowa), wide receiver Kevin White (West Virginia) and defensive end Shane Ray (Missouri) are additional prospects whose names are repetitively raised as top draft prospects. Similar to the Bucs, the Jags selecting Fowler Jr. seems like a no-brainer from a marketing and ticket sales perspective. Jacksonville has a large Florida Gator alumni base. As Super Bowl champions, finishing last season on the highest note, the New England Patriots will have the 32nd and final pick in the first round of this year’s draft.
The NFL draft has been held in New York City since 1963. Prior to 1963, it was held in Chicago where it will return this year. Round 1 begins on April 30th, rounds 2 and 3 will take place on May 1st and rounds 4-7 will conclude on Saturday, May 2nd.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have the first pick and many people predict the team will select Winston. From a marketing and revenue standpoint, Winston is the clear winner. With a large Seminole alumni and fan base, the interest is already there. The Bucs have continued to struggle in recent years. While his on-field performance, Winston has proven his skills countless times, however his off-field behavior and decisions have many questioning his character and may impose a risk for any potential teams.
Both Winston and Mariota had successful seasons and have proven their capabilities in high-pressure games. In addition to the Bucs, the Tennessee Titans, Jacksonville Jaguars, Oakland Raiders and Washington Redskins have the other top four picks, respectively. Offensive linebacker Dante Fowler Jr. (Florida), defensive end Leonard Williams (USC), wide receiver Amari Cooper (Alabama), offensive linebacker Vic Beasley (Clemson), guard Brandon Scherff (Iowa), wide receiver Kevin White (West Virginia) and defensive end Shane Ray (Missouri) are additional prospects whose names are repetitively raised as top draft prospects. Similar to the Bucs, the Jags selecting Fowler Jr. seems like a no-brainer from a marketing and ticket sales perspective. Jacksonville has a large Florida Gator alumni base. As Super Bowl champions, finishing last season on the highest note, the New England Patriots will have the 32nd and final pick in the first round of this year’s draft.
The NFL draft has been held in New York City since 1963. Prior to 1963, it was held in Chicago where it will return this year. Round 1 begins on April 30th, rounds 2 and 3 will take place on May 1st and rounds 4-7 will conclude on Saturday, May 2nd.
Saturday, April 25, 2015
New York Metss
The New York Mets began their season with a 13-3 start, including an 11-game winning streak. The team currently has the best record in baseball.
The Subway Series kicks off the weekend of April 24th where the Mets will face off against their fellow New Yorkers, their rivals, the Yankees. Historically, the Yankees have dominated but now it seems a shift is occurring. The series is sparking a strong buzz, as the Yankees are in unfamiliar territory with a 9-7 record this season, and the Mets are holding their best record.
The Mets organization began in 1962. The team last won a World Series in 1969. The Mets made their last playoff appearance in 2006, losing the eventual World Series Champions, the St. Louis Cardinals. With this being 9 years ago, it’s safe to say the fans are ready, and welcoming this change!
The Mets have a generally young roster, which includes pitcher Matt Harvey, aka: the Dark Knight. The Mets drafted Harvey in 2011 after he pitched for 3 years at UNC Chapel Hill. He played for their minor league team and made his Mets debut in 2012. In 2013, Harvey continued to receive recognition for his throwing strength and control. In a game against the Atlanta Braves, Harvey attained a career-high 13 strikeouts, allowing just 3 hits in 7 innings. Due to a ligament tear in his elbow, Harvey required Tommy John surgery and as a result of this injury, missed the 2014 season. On April 9th of this year, Harvey pitched his 1st game since 2013 and allowed 6 innings with no runs and also struck out 9 Washington Nationals players.
While the majority of the team is young, the Mets also have experienced veteran pitcher, Bartolo Colon. Colon has played with several teams since joining the Cleveland Indians in 1997. This is his 2nd season with the Mets.
Following the conclusion of the Subway Series on Sunday, the Mets will face the Miami Marlins on the road before finishing next week at home against the Nationals.
The Subway Series kicks off the weekend of April 24th where the Mets will face off against their fellow New Yorkers, their rivals, the Yankees. Historically, the Yankees have dominated but now it seems a shift is occurring. The series is sparking a strong buzz, as the Yankees are in unfamiliar territory with a 9-7 record this season, and the Mets are holding their best record.
The Mets organization began in 1962. The team last won a World Series in 1969. The Mets made their last playoff appearance in 2006, losing the eventual World Series Champions, the St. Louis Cardinals. With this being 9 years ago, it’s safe to say the fans are ready, and welcoming this change!
The Mets have a generally young roster, which includes pitcher Matt Harvey, aka: the Dark Knight. The Mets drafted Harvey in 2011 after he pitched for 3 years at UNC Chapel Hill. He played for their minor league team and made his Mets debut in 2012. In 2013, Harvey continued to receive recognition for his throwing strength and control. In a game against the Atlanta Braves, Harvey attained a career-high 13 strikeouts, allowing just 3 hits in 7 innings. Due to a ligament tear in his elbow, Harvey required Tommy John surgery and as a result of this injury, missed the 2014 season. On April 9th of this year, Harvey pitched his 1st game since 2013 and allowed 6 innings with no runs and also struck out 9 Washington Nationals players.
While the majority of the team is young, the Mets also have experienced veteran pitcher, Bartolo Colon. Colon has played with several teams since joining the Cleveland Indians in 1997. This is his 2nd season with the Mets.
Following the conclusion of the Subway Series on Sunday, the Mets will face the Miami Marlins on the road before finishing next week at home against the Nationals.
Friday, April 17, 2015
Portland Trail Blazers
The Portland Trail Blazers are 51-30 and will wrap up their regular season play this week on the road against the Dallas Mavericks. The Trail Blazers are in 1st place in the Northwest Division and in 4th place in the Western Conference, following the Golden State Warriors, the LA Clippers and the San Antonio Spurs. These teams have all secured spots in the playoffs with their rankings.
Portland has been battling injuries late in the season, including losing Wesley Matthews in March with a torn Achilles. Matthews has been out for the remainder of the season. With the playoffs approaching very quickly, the goal for the final game is to emerge uninjured. Neither team is expected to play their regular rotation for more than one quarter in this final matchup of the season.
In the basketball world, Portland is commonly known as Rip City. This name originated in the team’s first season (1970-71) with announcer Bill Schonely shouting “Rip City!” after a deep shot from Trail Blazer guard, Jim Barnett to tie the game with the Lakers. Portland ended up losing the game. When asked where Rip City came from, Schonely says he just happened to blurt it out. It has stuck with the franchise ever since.
The Trail Blazers have advanced to the NBA Finals three times, most recently in 1992 and have one NBA Championship, from 1977, where the team defeated the Philadelphia 76ers. Portland has had some serious NBA talent with Hall of Fame stars previously on their roster including Lenny Wilkens, who later coached the team. Additional Hall of Fame noteworthy players include: Bill Walton, Clyde Drexler and Scottie Pippen. In 2012-13, Damian Lillard was unanimously named NBA Rookie of the Year and has continued to shine for the Trail Blazers.
This season, the team’s leaders include LaMarcus Aldridge, who is averaging just over 23 points per game and 10 rebounds, as well as Lillard, who’s averaging 6 assists per game. To succeed in the playoffs, the Trail Blazers will need to bring powerhouse plays on offense and continue to stay healthy and injury free.
Portland has been battling injuries late in the season, including losing Wesley Matthews in March with a torn Achilles. Matthews has been out for the remainder of the season. With the playoffs approaching very quickly, the goal for the final game is to emerge uninjured. Neither team is expected to play their regular rotation for more than one quarter in this final matchup of the season.
In the basketball world, Portland is commonly known as Rip City. This name originated in the team’s first season (1970-71) with announcer Bill Schonely shouting “Rip City!” after a deep shot from Trail Blazer guard, Jim Barnett to tie the game with the Lakers. Portland ended up losing the game. When asked where Rip City came from, Schonely says he just happened to blurt it out. It has stuck with the franchise ever since.
The Trail Blazers have advanced to the NBA Finals three times, most recently in 1992 and have one NBA Championship, from 1977, where the team defeated the Philadelphia 76ers. Portland has had some serious NBA talent with Hall of Fame stars previously on their roster including Lenny Wilkens, who later coached the team. Additional Hall of Fame noteworthy players include: Bill Walton, Clyde Drexler and Scottie Pippen. In 2012-13, Damian Lillard was unanimously named NBA Rookie of the Year and has continued to shine for the Trail Blazers.
This season, the team’s leaders include LaMarcus Aldridge, who is averaging just over 23 points per game and 10 rebounds, as well as Lillard, who’s averaging 6 assists per game. To succeed in the playoffs, the Trail Blazers will need to bring powerhouse plays on offense and continue to stay healthy and injury free.
Thursday, March 19, 2015
Atlanta Hawks
The Atlanta Hawks have had a phenomenal season thus far and with a record of 50-14, it’s no secret why they are the 1st place team in the Southeast Division. The Hawks have defeated other great NBA teams this season including the Cleveland Cavaliers twice, as well as the Golden State Warriors who have superstars Lebron James and Stephen Curry, respectively. The Hawks’ own powerful lineup boasts Kyle Korver, Al Horford and Jeff Teague.
Last Monday, the Hawks defeated the Sacramento Kings, at home in Atlanta, scoring 76 points in the 1st half! The final score was 130-105. All 5 Hawks starters had double figures. This game also marked Atlanta’s 50th victory this season, the 1st time the franchise has achieved this record since 2010.
Most recently, the Hawks were defeated by the Denver Nuggets, falling 115-102. This was the Hawks 8th loss to Denver in the Mile High City. Denver has had a less than impressive season, but have been playing much better under Melvin Hunt, interim head coach, after Brian Shaw was let go earlier this season. The Hawks were outrebounded in the game and although the team went on a 24-1 run in the 4th quarter, making the game more competitive, it just wasn’t enough to bring Atlanta to a victory.
If the Hawks want to advance past the 1st round in the playoffs, the team will need to continue playing great basketball – the kind that has guided them to 50 victories so far this season. While the Hawks have made the playoffs frequently in recent years, advancing beyond the initial round has been a challenge the team has struggled with historically. Although, Atlanta hasn’t had a season this great in a few years, so perhaps 2015 is the year they will turn things around! Staying healthy and maintaining focus are keys to achieving this success.
The Hawks face off against the Phoenix Suns tomorrow night as the second of six games on their road trip.
Last Monday, the Hawks defeated the Sacramento Kings, at home in Atlanta, scoring 76 points in the 1st half! The final score was 130-105. All 5 Hawks starters had double figures. This game also marked Atlanta’s 50th victory this season, the 1st time the franchise has achieved this record since 2010.
Most recently, the Hawks were defeated by the Denver Nuggets, falling 115-102. This was the Hawks 8th loss to Denver in the Mile High City. Denver has had a less than impressive season, but have been playing much better under Melvin Hunt, interim head coach, after Brian Shaw was let go earlier this season. The Hawks were outrebounded in the game and although the team went on a 24-1 run in the 4th quarter, making the game more competitive, it just wasn’t enough to bring Atlanta to a victory.
If the Hawks want to advance past the 1st round in the playoffs, the team will need to continue playing great basketball – the kind that has guided them to 50 victories so far this season. While the Hawks have made the playoffs frequently in recent years, advancing beyond the initial round has been a challenge the team has struggled with historically. Although, Atlanta hasn’t had a season this great in a few years, so perhaps 2015 is the year they will turn things around! Staying healthy and maintaining focus are keys to achieving this success.
The Hawks face off against the Phoenix Suns tomorrow night as the second of six games on their road trip.
Wednesday, March 4, 2015
New York Islanders
The Islanders are one of metropolitan New York’s three NHL teams, whose primary fan base is Long Island. The team has not made a playoff appearance since 1992-1993, and last won a Stanley Cup in 1983. The team will be moving into the Barclays Center, home of the Brooklyn Nets, beginning with the 2015-2016 season.
Earlier this week, the team defeated the Phoenix Coyotes 5-1. In the 3rd period, the Islanders scored four unanswered goals in just under six minutes to break a tied game. After a scoreless opening period, Anders Lee scored the Islanders’ 1st goal in the 2nd period. Phoenix’s Mark Arcobello scored next to tie the game. The team’s four unanswered 3rd period goals were scored by: Matt Martin, Johnny Boychuk, Kael Mouillierat and Brock Nelson.
On Tuesday, the Islanders announced that defenseman Nick Leddy agreed to terms on a seven-year contract through 2021-2022, reportedly worth over $38 million. Leddy is 23 years old and has scored eight goals this season so far. The Islanders acquired him in a trade with the Chicago Blackhawks in October 2014 along with goalie Kent Simpson. Leddy was with the Blackhawks when they won the Stanley Cup in 2013.
The Islanders also defeated the Calgary Flames at home on Friday night, 2-1. Ryan Strome scored New York’s initial goal in the 1st period and after a scoreless 2nd period, Cal Clutterbuck scored the 2nd in the final period. The Islanders have seven home games out of their upcoming thirteen through the month of March.
Tuesday, March 3, 2015
St. Louis Blues
The St. Louis Blues are currently 2nd in the NHL’s central division with a record of 38-18, nine points behind the division’s 1st place leader, the Nashville Predators.The Blues were one of six expansion teams added to the NHL in 1967. As a result of the playoff format in place at the time, the Blues made it to three straight Stanley Cup Finals appearances from 1968-1970, although their opponents in each of these series swept them. Hockey greats Brett Hull and Brendan Shanahan played for St. Louis in the 1980s and ‘90s and from 1980-2004 the Blues continued to maintained a playoff presence. In 2005-2006, the team finished with their worst season record in more than 26 years. The next playoff appearance for the Blues came in 2009, where they faced off against Vancouver Canucks, but did not advance to the 2nd round. In 2013-2014, the team reached the 100-point mark for the 6th time in franchise history and also obtained 52 wins, a franchise record.
On Thursday of this week, the Blues announced their acquisition of Adam Cracknell, a forward from the Columbus Blue Jackets in exchange for future considerations. Cracknell actually spent his 1st four years in the NHL with the Blues from 2010-2014 and with this trade, will initially report to the Chicago Wolves, the Blues’ AHL affiliate team.
The Blues have lost three of their last four games and will play 11 of their next 14 games on the road. With that said, the team is 16-10-2 on the road, currently making them the 6th best team on the road in the NHL. The Blues face off against the Winnipeg Jets Thursday, February 26th. The Blues have won their last five games against the Jets. To extend that streak to six, the Blues will need to get back to their strong style of play that led them to success earlier in the season. This is something the team has been struggling with recently and the players must continue to stay healthy and free of injuries as the playoffs are approaching in the near future.
Thursday, February 19, 2015
Chicago Bulls
When you think of the Chicago Bulls, what do you think of?
Perhaps you might think of Derrick Rose and the team’s moderate success in recent years, however, it’s likely you (as with so many others) get nostalgic remembering the NBA’s undoubtable, dominating dynasty Chicago Bulls from the 1990s. You know, the team led by NBA legend, Michael Jordan, whose supporting cast including Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman, Steve Kerr and more? The team that was coached by iconic, 11 time champion Phil Jackson and the franchise that won six championship titles in the span of eight years. The 1995–1966 Chicago Bulls team is widely regarded as one of the greatest in NBA history.
Regardless of your associations, like for or dislike of the Chicago franchise, they are one of the NBA’s most iconic and historic teams. In 2011, Derrick Rose was named MVP and also signed a 5-year contract extension with Chicago worth more than $94 million. The Bulls have had their ups and downs since 2011 and are attempting to reclaim their image as a powerhouse team after a rough 2013-2014 season, where leader Rose was injured after 10 games. Rose missed the entire 2012-2013 season due to an ACL injury.
The Bulls are currently in first place in the Central Division of the NBA with a record of 33-20, and will face off against their division rivals, the Cleveland Cavaliers on Thursday. The Cavs are in second place (32-21) and this is sure to be an intense matchup. While the Detroit Pistons have been a historic rival of Chicago’s since the Jordan days, the Cavs/Bulls rivalry has risen especially with Derrick Rose and Lebron James as the faces of their respective franchises.
Most recently the Bulls defeated the Kings, 104-86. This was the team’s third straight win.
The Bulls’ roster is stacked with veterans including Derrick Rose, Pau Gasol and Joakim Noah, as well as Aaron Brooks, Jimmy Butler and Mike Dunleavy among others.
In order to continue being successful this season, the Bulls will need to stay healthy and continue to improve their shooting. Bulls head coach Tom Thibodeau is a firm believer in drills, fundamentals and set rotations. These factors will also be critical to the Bulls maintaining a top position in their division.
Perhaps you might think of Derrick Rose and the team’s moderate success in recent years, however, it’s likely you (as with so many others) get nostalgic remembering the NBA’s undoubtable, dominating dynasty Chicago Bulls from the 1990s. You know, the team led by NBA legend, Michael Jordan, whose supporting cast including Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman, Steve Kerr and more? The team that was coached by iconic, 11 time champion Phil Jackson and the franchise that won six championship titles in the span of eight years. The 1995–1966 Chicago Bulls team is widely regarded as one of the greatest in NBA history.
Regardless of your associations, like for or dislike of the Chicago franchise, they are one of the NBA’s most iconic and historic teams. In 2011, Derrick Rose was named MVP and also signed a 5-year contract extension with Chicago worth more than $94 million. The Bulls have had their ups and downs since 2011 and are attempting to reclaim their image as a powerhouse team after a rough 2013-2014 season, where leader Rose was injured after 10 games. Rose missed the entire 2012-2013 season due to an ACL injury.
The Bulls are currently in first place in the Central Division of the NBA with a record of 33-20, and will face off against their division rivals, the Cleveland Cavaliers on Thursday. The Cavs are in second place (32-21) and this is sure to be an intense matchup. While the Detroit Pistons have been a historic rival of Chicago’s since the Jordan days, the Cavs/Bulls rivalry has risen especially with Derrick Rose and Lebron James as the faces of their respective franchises.
Most recently the Bulls defeated the Kings, 104-86. This was the team’s third straight win.
The Bulls’ roster is stacked with veterans including Derrick Rose, Pau Gasol and Joakim Noah, as well as Aaron Brooks, Jimmy Butler and Mike Dunleavy among others.
In order to continue being successful this season, the Bulls will need to stay healthy and continue to improve their shooting. Bulls head coach Tom Thibodeau is a firm believer in drills, fundamentals and set rotations. These factors will also be critical to the Bulls maintaining a top position in their division.
Monday, February 16, 2015
Memphis Grizzlies
The Memphis Grizzlies are currently 39-13, making them first in the Southwest division of the Western Conference of the NBA. The team most recently defeated the Brooklyn Nets by nine points, winning 95-86.
The Grizzlies franchise originated in 1995 in Vancouver. The team relocated to Memphis for the 2001-2002 season and added several new players including rookie forwards Shane Battier and Pau Gasol, who have since gone on to have successful and impressive basketball careers. The Grizzlies made three straight playoff appearances from 2003-2006. In 2006, Gasol also became the Grizzlies’ first All-Star player.
In the 2010-2011 season, the team’s 10th year in Memphis, the Grizzlies made it back into the playoffs for the first time in five years. They defeated the San Antonio Spurs in six games in the first round but fell in seven games to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Conference Semifinals. Since then, the Grizzlies have made it to at least the first round of playoffs and in 2012, made it as far as the Conference Finals where they were then swept by the Spurs in four games.
This season, Memphis has been successful due to their “Grit ’N’ Grind” style of play and continuing to remain a physical team. The team’s roster includes experienced veterans Tony Allen, Vince Carter, Courtney Lee and Zach Randolph. Earlier this week, Jarnell Stokes (forward) and Russ Smith (guard) were recalled from the Iowa Energy, Memphis’s NBA Development League affiliate.
Last week, the Grizzlies defeated the Atlanta Hawks who had been on a long hot winning streak. The Grizzlies were victorious, winning 94-88. Memphis outscored Atlanta in the paint, outrebounded them and went on an 8-2 run to finish the game strong, which had been tied at 86 with 2:48 left to play.
The Grizzlies will next take on the OKC Thunder on the road Wednesday night. This will be the team’s last game before pausing for All-Star break, which takes place this weekend in New York City. The Grizzlies will then head out West for three games on the road, facing off against the Portland Trail Blazers, Los Angeles Clippers and Sacramento Kings before returning home.
The Grizzlies franchise originated in 1995 in Vancouver. The team relocated to Memphis for the 2001-2002 season and added several new players including rookie forwards Shane Battier and Pau Gasol, who have since gone on to have successful and impressive basketball careers. The Grizzlies made three straight playoff appearances from 2003-2006. In 2006, Gasol also became the Grizzlies’ first All-Star player.
In the 2010-2011 season, the team’s 10th year in Memphis, the Grizzlies made it back into the playoffs for the first time in five years. They defeated the San Antonio Spurs in six games in the first round but fell in seven games to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Conference Semifinals. Since then, the Grizzlies have made it to at least the first round of playoffs and in 2012, made it as far as the Conference Finals where they were then swept by the Spurs in four games.
This season, Memphis has been successful due to their “Grit ’N’ Grind” style of play and continuing to remain a physical team. The team’s roster includes experienced veterans Tony Allen, Vince Carter, Courtney Lee and Zach Randolph. Earlier this week, Jarnell Stokes (forward) and Russ Smith (guard) were recalled from the Iowa Energy, Memphis’s NBA Development League affiliate.
Last week, the Grizzlies defeated the Atlanta Hawks who had been on a long hot winning streak. The Grizzlies were victorious, winning 94-88. Memphis outscored Atlanta in the paint, outrebounded them and went on an 8-2 run to finish the game strong, which had been tied at 86 with 2:48 left to play.
The Grizzlies will next take on the OKC Thunder on the road Wednesday night. This will be the team’s last game before pausing for All-Star break, which takes place this weekend in New York City. The Grizzlies will then head out West for three games on the road, facing off against the Portland Trail Blazers, Los Angeles Clippers and Sacramento Kings before returning home.
Tuesday, January 27, 2015
NFC Championship Game
The NFC Championship game occurred last Sunday in a noisy CenturyLink Field in Seattle. The Seattle Seahawks hosted the Green Bay Packers, both well fairing teams for all of 2014’s season and both having some of the most loyal fan bases in the league. Unlike the AFC Championship game being an utter blowout, the NFC game was a very competitive one. So competitive in fact that it went into overtime. Ultimately, the Seahawks were victorious, finishing the game with a final score of 28-22.The Packers got off to an early lead but Seattle was able to make a resilient comeback after halftime. The Seahawks were down 12 points with only 5 minutes of play remaining in the game. The team struggled with turnovers for a good portion of the game. Quarterback Russell Wilson scored a touchdown and then running back Marshawn Lynch scored too. The Packers kicked a field goal, tying the game and sending it to overtime. The game winning play occurred when Wilson connected a pass with wide receiver Jermaine Kearse for a Seahawks touchdown, less than 4 minutes into OT play.
Following the game on Sunday, Packers QB Aaron Rodgers said he will likely think about this game for the rest of his career. He admitted this was a missed opportunity and was also reported to have said that the Packers were the better team in the game. With 5 Seattle turnovers and up until the 4th quarter, this was in fact true. Rodgers completed 19 of 34 passes and has been playing with a calf injury throughout the playoffs.
The Super Bowl will be held a week from this Sunday at the University of Phoenix Stadium, home of the Arizona Cardinals. The Seahawks will face off against the New England Patriots. The New England Patriots have plenty of years of experience in the big game, however, Seattle is a generally young and hungry team, looking to go for a back-to-back championship reign. 34 players on Seattle’s 53-man roster were part of the Super Bowl team last year. With both teams playing hard in their respective conference championship games, this is likely to be another great matchup.
Thursday, January 22, 2015
AFC Championship Game
Last Sunday, the New England Patriots hosted the Indianapolis Colts at Gillette Stadium for the AFC Championship game. The game was a blowout, with the Patriots dominating and finishing victorious with a final score of 45-7. This was the second largest blowout in history for an AFC game. The biggest blowout in AFC title history was in 1990, where Buffalo beat the Los Angeles Raiders, 51-3.Patriots’ quarterback Tom Brady completed 23 of 35 passes for 226 yards and was eventually replaced by Jimmy Garoppolo for the game’s remaining 3:20 minutes. Brady threw three touchdown passes. Running back LeGarrette Blount ran for 148 yards and three scores.
The Patriots led 17-7 at halftime. It appeared to still be a fairly competitive game at this point. New England then scored touchdowns on all four of their first possessions in the second half of the game, pulling away from the Colts quickly.
It was a tough game for Colts quarterback Andrew Luck, who completed just 12 of 33 passes. Luck had no touchdowns and two interceptions in the game. This was the Colts third appearance in the AFC Championship game in three years. They last won the game in 2009 but were defeated by the New Orleans Saints in the Super Bowl.
Brady and Patriots head coach Bill Belichick will break records as they enter the Super Bowl, for the most appearances in the game by a quarterback or a head coach. This will be the duo’s sixth appearance in a Super Bowl, beating out John Elway and Don Shula’s records respectively. In 2001, which was Brady’s first year as a NFL starter, Brady led the Patriots to a Super Bowl win. This began a run of three championships in just four years. The Patriots will face the NFC champions and reigning Super Bowl champs, Seattle Seahawks in the big game. Both teams finished 14-4 this season. The Super Bowl is on Sunday, February 1st in Glendale, Arizona.
Monday, January 12, 2015
College Football Playoff National Championship
The Oregon Ducks smoked former national champions, the Florida State Seminoles, winning 59-20 in the Rose Bowl. The game remained competitive through the first half, however Oregon pulled away in the 3rd quarter, scoring 27 points. The Seminoles had 5 turnovers in 6 possessions and did not score in the 4th quarter. Heisman trophy winning Ducks quarterback, Marcus Mariota, threw for 338 yards and 2 touchdowns and ran for another TD. The Ducks had been hyped as a powerhouse team for speed this season and they did not disappoint in the Rose Bowl, living up to all the hype.
The Ohio State Buckeyes defeated first-ranked Alabama 42-35, in the Sugar Bowl. The Buckeyes overcame a 21-6 deficit to defeat the Crimson Tide. This was Ohio State quarterback Cardale Jones’ second career start. He has proven himself valuable and worthy to the Buckeyes after first and second string QBs, Braxton Miller and J.T. Barrett suffered season-ending injuries earlier this year.
CBS Sports has reported the CFP National Championship Game tickets have a face value of $450 but are selling for an average ticket price of just over $1175 each. The game is sold out and the stadium’s capacity for this game is approximately 75,000 seats. With 2 teams who have played hard and fought on the field all season, it’d be hard to argue against either deserving their place in the big game.
The game is likely to be determined by Oregon’s offense vs. Ohio State’s defense. While the Buckeyes have proven themselves offensively, a key to victory for them will be stopping Mariota and the Ducks’ offense. In addition to both QBs, other players to watch include Ducks RB Royce Freeman, Buckeyes WR Devin Smith and Buckeyes RB Ezekiel Elliott who has an aggressive running style. With a national title on the line and a hunger for more victory, this matchup is sure to be a good one.
Tuesday, January 6, 2015
NCAA College Basketball
With college football winding down in early January, and the NFL wrapping up its season by early February, much of the attention of sports fans turns to college basketball. While the NCAA college basketball season begins in November, the sport takes center stage during late winter and early spring, as teams compete for a place in the “dance” of the tournament known as March Madness.The competition narrows to the Sweet Sixteen which turns into the Elite Eight, the Final Four and then finally, the national championship game. In addition to determining the NCAA’s most supreme college basketball teams and ultimately, the champion, March Madness is known for its bracket. It is popular among die-hard and casual fans alike, as people try to guess winners, allow for upsets and predict the championship team. Regardless of who is playing, there’s rarely a dull moment and usually a few unaccounted for upsets.
Currently, the top 10 ranked basketball teams according to the AP Poll (in descending order) are: Kentucky, Duke, University of Virginia, Wisconsin. Louisville, Villanova, Gonzaga, Arizona, Iowa State and Utah. Kentucky is currently 13-0. Last year’s NCAA Tournament winner was the University of Connecticut Huskies, who defeated Kentucky, 60-54. The 2 teams were ranked number 7 and number 8 heading into the game. The women’s 2014 winner was also UConn, defeating Notre Dame, 79-58. This was the school’s 9th NCAA Women’s Basketball Title.
While fans are used to seeing traditional programs such as Duke, UConn and Syracuse often excel and advance, in recent years, there have been many surprises such as Florida Gulf Coast University advancing to the Sweet Sixteen in 2013. On Saturday, Seton Hall shocked Villanova, beating the number 6 ranked team, 66-61 in OT. Villanova was previously undefeated. Cal (UC) also beat number 21, Washington 81-75 last Friday. With upsets like this, weeks before March, this year’s tournament is sure to be another interesting one, full of surprises in both rankings and matchups.The tournament officially begins March 15, Selection Sunday, and progresses through early April with the Final Four games taking place on April 4th and the championship game occurring on April 6th at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
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