Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Stanley Cup Finals!

If you are not excited for the NHL Stanley Cup Finals, just watch game one tonight, and I dare you not to watch the rest of the series.  Tonight starts the best sporting event you can watch.  The intensity, speed, grit, teamwork, and skill that will be displayed by the New Jersey Devils and Los Angeles Kings is unmatched in the athletic world.  What makes it better is we get at least four games and in this series the likelihood of six or seven!  The Kings are hot, and it is hard seeing them stumble at all with the pace they have played at the first three rounds.  This extra time off since the Conference Finals means they will be rested and eager to continue the high flying run they are on.  The Devils have built their confidence through the playoffs to where they are now, poised to play their best hockey of the season at the most important time.

The lead is of course the goaltenders.  Jonathan Quick has turned in the best performance of the post season only losing two games and backstopping the Kings to eight straight road victories.  He has been unflappable between the pipes and allows the Kings to open up their game offensively with constant pressure on opposing team's defense.  Quick has never been in this position at the highest level, but continues to make game changing saves and instill confidence in his team.  He will need to continue this play for the Kings to win the series, and if he does, will undoubtedly be the Conn Smythe winner.

You cannot talk Quick, however, without talking about the man standing across from him.  The man that will go down as the greatest goalie of all time with or without winning this series.  Martin Brodeur is a phenomenon still playing at this level as he reaches forty years old.  His athletic style always makes games an adventure, but there is no questioning his ability to stop the puck.  He makes all the "easy" saves that always keep his team in games and more importantly with a chance to win night in and night out.  His leadership and experience is unmatched and this gives the Devils a slight edge.  Young guys bring enthusiasm and energy, but the veterans like Brodeur are the even keel that keeps a team focused and mentally prepared to be great and excel on the biggest stage. 

It's a good thing there are two quality goalies in this series because there will be a lot of offense with many great scoring chances to be had.  Both teams are deep showing the ability to score with their third line and put pressure on with their fourth.  Both teams also have offensive stars.  The King's Anze Kopitar, Dustin Brown, and Mike Richards are matched by Zach Parise, Ilya Kovalchuk, and Travis Zajac.  All these guys make game changing plays every night and this must continue for their team to hoist the Cup.  Brown and Kopitar need to find the back of the net shorthanded at least once this series while maintaining their excellent penalty kill.  Kovalchuk has been a goal scoring machine on the powerplay so he will be ready to bury the biscuit when given the chance.  The Kings seem to have more proven guys that can score, but the Stanley Cup loves unlikely heroes.  The team that maintains their speed of play will be the winner.

Defensively the Kings get all the press led by Drew Doughty.  Doughty has played exceptionally well this postseason becoming an anchor in the defensive zone.  The Kings roll six d-men which keeps the legs fresh and allows them to be more active offensively while still dominating in their own end.  Rob Scuderi, Willie Mitchell, and Matt Greene bring the veteran grit of successful playoff defensemen while young guys Alec Martinez and Slava Voynov round out an impressive d-corp.  All can make plays and defend against any line in their own zone. 

The Devils back line, while not as talked about, is just as an impressive group of blueliners.  Bryce Salvador has had a surprisingly impressive offensive playoffs with more points in 18 playoff games than he had in 82 regular season games.  Salvador, Andy Greene, Marek Zidlicky, and Mark Fayne have been the backbone of a strong defensive team moving away from the clutch and grab trapping Devils of the past to a quick puck moving, gritty play making group.  They defend below the hash marks and make all the simple outlet passes so that their forwards can take care of business at the other end.

To say one of these teams has an advantage going into the series is crazy.  The Devils and Kings truly mirror one another which excites me even more.  There will be great play in all areas of the game leaving the door open for heroes each night.  These will all be close one goal games that will have us fans on the edge of our seats.  Within two weeks the Stanley Cup will be raised and a group of 20 guys immortalized in hockey history.  I may or may not have some stake in this, attending game six in LA, but here it goes anyways.  Kings in 6!

Sunday, May 27, 2012

NBA Conference Finals Picks

Miami Heat vs. Boston Celtics

Tonight is the start of what could be a very quick series between the Miami Heat and Boston Celtics.  It is a repeat of last season's Eastern Conference Semi-Finals and features all the same major players.  This reason alone could stand as to why the Heat should win this series without too much issue.  Maybe having two of the best seven players in the league, including the best player in Lebron James, is another reason why the Celtics will hope to not get swept.  Let's take a look at each team going into the series.

The original, modern day big three of Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, and Ray Allen will all be looking to not keel over in this series as each of them has a battle tested and banged up body.  It is almost sad to watch Allen hoist up 3's as he shoots off one leg and throws up brick after brick.  Pierce has been nearly as ineffective, capable of getting his shots and getting to the line at times, but never being a sustained force for the opposing team to worry about.  Garnett has actually been the one shining light, but even with his rejuvinated play, KG can no longer carry a team through a grueling seven game series.  The Celtics can probably count on two huge games from him at most.  So what does that leave the Celtics?  Rajon Rondo is great in one game and disinterested in the next.  He is a walking triple-double when he wants to be, but he relies on rebounding especially at the offensive end which is not a good thing when playing a quick transition team like the Heat.  The Celtics have lost their young defensive energy guy in Avery Bradley.  They have no bench to speak of whatsoever.  Doc Rivers is a great coach, but this is not a team to go to battle with.

The new big three, now down to two, of the Miami Heat are looking in prime form to dismantle the Celtics and have a nice long rest before playing the Spurs/Thunder winner in the NBA Finals.  Lebron is consistently playing at the highest level of anyone in the playoffs.  Let's disregard the "can't close" talk as this is a new playoff season, and to this point he has made good decisions and taken over games multiple times when necessary.  The pace Lebron can play at, all while remaining fully in control, is incredible and unmatched.  He has appeared to take on this postseason's challenges with a more aggressive attitude than in year's past.  Dwyane Wade is the other factor that makes Lebron great.  Wade is arguably the second best player in the playoffs which takes pressure off Lebron and lifts the Heat to new heights.  As long as both guys continue their own high level of play and each take over when the time is right each of them, the Heat will be hard to stop. 

There are, however, question marks about the supporting cast of the Heat.  Chris Bosh can hopefully make a return to the lineup soon, but for now it is up to guys like Mario Chalmers, Udonis Haslem, Mike Miller, Shane Battier, and Joel Anthony.  All have been serviceable at times, but need to show more consistency shooting from beyond the three point line and defending inside to keep opposing teams off the boards.  The Heat do not always have the best supporting cast or bench, but if a few guys can step up each night this is a team that is hard to beat right now.

The Heat are the trendy pick and with good reason.  They have superior talent, and actually have a deeper team at the moment.  The Celtics will battle as any good veteran team does, but the Heat will just be too much.  Game one tonight will not even be close with a worn down Celtics team and the rest of the series will favor the high tempo Heat.  Miami in 5.


From Sunday:

San Antonio Spurs vs. Oklahoma City Thunder

The San Antonio Spurs begin their series at home tonight against the Oklahoma City Thunder.  It is of course the old guard against the young budding team, and makes for an interesting matchup.  The Spurs are a model franchise in the NBA.  They routinely find unknown players to fill in spots on their team and keep quality character guys on the roster.  They find a way to get every ounce of talent out every man on the roster.  Let's not discount however the big three of the Spurs.  Tony Parker, Manu Ginobili, and Tim Duncan are a formidable core of the team and whether plays run directly through them or they just bring experience and leadership to the floor, these guys keep their team consistently playing at a high level.  Basketball truly relies on experience as games often come down to the last seconds requiring players to make great plays under immense pressure. 

Tony Parker has proven to be an elite point guard in the league and continues to drive this Spurs team on a surprising title run.  Tim Duncan is certainly not the player he once was but the character and drive to win are unquestioned.  He has adjusted his game to accommodate other scorers and found a way to be continually effective on defense and rebounding.  If the Spurs won it all this season, I would not be surprised to see the big man hang it up.  The Spurs have played great basketball the first two series, but the Jazz and Clippers are no where near the level that the Thunder are at.

OKC has arguably the best player in the NBA in Kevin Durant.  The man can score at will and has done so thus far in the playoffs.  You just simply cannot teach 6'11" with a deft touch and the ability to shoot from anywhere on the court.  The Spurs have no one that can straight up guard him, so Durant must make a big impact in this series.  35 point games had better be routine for him, otherwise the Thunder may struggle.  Certainly the most intriguing matchup is between Parker and Russell Westbrook.  Russ is so athletic and an electric player to watch.  His speed with the ball is only matched by a healthy Derrick Rose. It will be his lack of experience, however, against Parker that makes this matchup so great.  If Parker is creating turnovers and making life difficult in anyway for Westbrook it will again be tough for the Thunder to hang. 

There is then of course the wild card in sixth man of the year winner James Harden.  Harden had a fantastic season and has had moments to remember in these playoffs.  The Thunder completely rely on him to be the third scoring option for them and he must continue to rise to the occasion in this series.  Harden is excellent at getting to the basket, but watch out for the Spurs clogging the middle and making this difficult on him.  If Harden isn't getting to the basket he is not always a very effective player.

Tonight's game one should be exciting and fun to watch. It should also tell us where each team stands entering this series. Both teams are rested and will be well prepared.  The Spurs will not give this one up easily and could, in the end, be moving onto the Finals.  I think it is time for the Thunder to step up.  They have the team they want.  The play a complete game and have a couple guys that can score when necessary.  They have the opportunity to use their athleticism to wear down an older Spurs team.  This is going to be a great series to watch and is very hard to pick.  Thunder in 7.

mf

Saturday, May 26, 2012

Love and Honor

The Stanley Cup Finals begins Wednesday in New Jersey with the Devils and LA Kings facing off to crown the next Stanley Cup champion.  It is a big event and there are plenty of stories and angles to look at.  As an alum of Miami University, it is exciting to have two friends and teammates battling for the Cup, ensuring that Miami will have a Stanley Cup winner this season.  It is is more meaningful, however, than just the cliched "6 AM workouts together" or "Brotherhood" terminology thrown around.

Miami University has ascended to the top of college hockey over the past decade.  The hockey program has played in 7 straight NCAA tournaments and two Frozen fours, once losing in OT in the national championship game.  Miami has won two CCHA championships, one CCHA playoff championship, and perennially been ranked in the top ten for the better part of this time.  Numerous players have played in NHL games and many more future NHL players are either currently at Miami or recruited to be there soon.  When you talk recent college hockey powers, you would be remiss not to list Boston College at the top.  Miami is in the elite group right behind that powerhouse university and with a national championship win would be the unquestioned number two program in college hockey.  Hard work and commitment from it's players and staff have put Miami in the fortunate position it now finds itself.

What makes this Cup final more exciting is having Andy Greene and Alec Martinez facing each other in a seven game battle for the Stanly Cup.  Greene went to Miami before it was a national power.  He helped lay down a foundation for a strong program.  One where Seniors and Freshmen would hang out together.  One where teams were more than just teams.  They were families that of course did the 6 AM workouts together, but more importantly did everything away from the rink together, truly enjoyed each others company no matter what was going on, and built a culture of excellence in all that you do. 

Alec Martinez came to a program that was on the brink of fulfilling all the promise that had been built at Miami. He was part of a class that continued the culture of family and excellence, and was the first to reach 100 career wins also graduating as the winningest class in the country for 2005-2009.  These two players, along with every other member of the Miami hockey program, built a tradition of excellence on the ice, in the classroom, and in the community. 

Greene and Martinez are the current face of the Miami hockey tradition on the grandest stage of hockey.  With such a great program in place, others will soon come along to take the place of them.  But for now, being two guys I got to play with and share some great times, I will excitedly watch this finals series and know that what has been accomplished by these two is proof of the excellence every member of Miami hockey has shown through the programs history. 

mf

Friday, May 25, 2012

Why the Rangers Will Win Tonight

We are just a few hours away from the drop of the puck in what will not be the series deciding game six in the Stanly Cup Eastern Conference finals.  There are always lots of areas to look at when evaluating an upcoming game and an entire playoff series.  The Rangers and Devils have played five very close games and this one will be no different.  The outcome of game six, however, will favor the Rangers and give us another game seven in the exciting postseason.

This will be an amazing game to watch that will be up and down the ice with chances left and right.  I expect Kreider to continue having a great playoff run.  Gaborik will even play a strong offensive role in this game, he is too talented not to.  Callahan is as good a leader as there is in the league and he will continue his steady play and cause problems for the Devil's defense all night. 

The Rangers will be playing with the highest level of urgency.  This is not to say the Devils will not be, because they have strong leadership and a great coaching staff that will have them ready to play.  Tonight we will see the full Henrik Lundqvist factor take effect.  The Rangers will be pressing hard to put pucks in the net and put constant pressure on Martin Brodeur.  Often times this sort of play leads to breakdowns and pucks in the back of your own net, but tonight Lundqvist will play his best game of the playoffs.  He will make unbelievable saves to keep the Rangers up in the game and protect the lead late when the Devils are looking to force OT.  The Devils will be left scratching their heads as they head back to MSG for game seven.

Hockey is also a sport that has a lot of history and this series will fit right into that continuing theme.  Not many people from 1994 are involved in this series, but regardless, we will have a game seven back in NYC just like that series.  With two teams that are so close geographically and on the ice, it is only right that we get seven games.  3-1 Rangers

mf

Monday, May 21, 2012

Don't Talk About Kobe

The Thunder have taken down their playoff nemesis, Los Angeles Lakers, and the future remains bright for the young, talented team.  But let's take a moment to discuss the Lakers and their not so bright future.  Seriously, don't talk about Kobe.  The man can still play.  He is a winner, and combined with the right pieces around him the Lakers can contend for titles over the next few years. 

Big change needs to come to the Lakers franchise.  I'm talking blowing things up on a massive scale to right the ship and put a playoff competitive, complete, younger team.  Let's get a little crazy and think outside the box.  First, trade or release, or do whatever it takes to get rid of Pau Gasol.  He is an extremely talented player that never shows up when it matters.  Maybe a change of scenery will boost his career, but he needs to be done in LA without question.  The best thing the Lakers could do is get cap room for Gasol.  There are not too many big men with high skill that would be worth trading for, but no matter what Gasol is gone.

Complete the Bynum for Dwight Howard trade.  I do not care that the Magic cleaned house for Howard, he is done in Orlando.  He went down a dark path this season and needs that same change of scenery as Pau.  And the same can be said for Bynum.  Yes he is showing promise as a big man in the NBA, but his mental state is not built for success.  He will always be a good player in the league, but not a championship piece.  Howard can come to LA, not be the center piece, and play his game of rebounding and defense.  He does those two things better than anyone and having the scoring burden taken off of him a bit would make him dominant again.

A few others to cut loose.  Lose Metta World Peace.  He is insane, not even Kobe can keep him in check.  You can count on some sort of suspension each season, and Metta brings little to the court anymore.  Ramon Sessions must either be a backup PG or gotten rid of.  He is just simply not an NBA caliber point guard.  The Matt Barnes experiment has not worked, lose him as well. 

Now who to add.  These are still the Lakers and they can make things happen in the off season.  Trade Pau for Steve Nash.  Yes the number of years you get out of Nash will not be big, but the man can still ball and would give LA a legit point guard for the first time in many years.  Nash will also be willing to take a pay cut because his career is winding down and he is desperate for that championship.  This is a big move on and off the court and with Nash, Kobe, and Dwight you have an amazing core group of players.

The Lakers need to go and get Monte Ellis and Stephen Curry.  Reunite these two dynamic shooters and help the Lakers field goal percentage go up to a respectable level.  These two will be interchangeable as to who starts and who comes off the bench and each will raise their level with, again, not having to be the main scoring focus.  Another piece to add is Lamar Odom.  Kiss and make up with the man, have Kobe give him massages, do whatever to get Odom's head back on straight and playing to the level he was at last season.  One last piece is Tyreke Evans.  He is not wanted in Sacramento anymore and he can come to LA and be big points off the bench.  He is young and athletic and needs to play in a new place.  He would grow a lot around Nash and Kobe and would compete with Ellis and Curry for playing time making all three better or weeding out the one that doesn't want it.

This would become a team that is younger instantly and able to put the ball in the basket.  The defense would also be improved with the younger, more dedicated players.  There would be hope and optimism for a big run that could last more than just one year.  Kobe is still a huge piece for a team to build around.  With a younger team that is hungry for success, Kobe will be happier with the outlook of the team.  Nash will be reinvigorated for a two year run at winning a title.  This will be an exciting team for Hollywood and a team that can make noise for a championship.

Starters: Nash, Kobe, Dwight, Odom, Curry
Bench: Evans, Ellis, Blake, Josh McRoberts, Jordan Hill, Sessions, Troy Murphy, (insert a defender that can play the 3/4)

mf

Sunday, May 20, 2012

NBA/NHL Weekend Wrapup, May 18-20

Heat/Pacers

Well, we now know what it takes for the Heat to win with Bosh out.  Lebron throws down a near ridiculous triple-double with 40-18-9 and the Pacers can't quite put enough balls in the basket to beat the Heat.  Miami will end up winning this series, but next round will be tough with a likely matchup against the impressive Celtics.

Celtics/Sixers

Speaking of the Celtics, they are tied at two games apiece, but they have impressed with their experience and strong play from Garnett in the middle.  The Sixers have put up a good fight and will force the Celtics to take the series from them, but in the end the Celtics will be too much.  I like Rondo to continue on his near triple-double pace and win in six games.

Lakers/Thunder

The Lakers sit on the verge of elimination, and once again it all rests on their "bigs".  Gasol has not shown up again and against a front court that should not be able to contain both him and Bynum.  Kobe has played like himself and Metta World Peace has had a solid series, but there has just been too much Durant.  He has made clutch baskets and led a calm and collected Thunder team to a 3-1 lead in the series that should end in a game five massacre back in OKC.

Spurs/Clippers

The west is ending quickly and the Spurs will be the first to move on.  The Clippers were the darlings of round one, but the high flying style has be thwarted by great team defense and excellent all around shooting.  Parker continues to cement himself as one of the premier point guards, Duncan a premier leader, and Popovich a premier motivator.  It's the same old same old with San Antonio, and they will be a difficult out for anyone they see the rest of the playoffs. Look for the sweep tonight.

Kings/Coyotes

The Kings have been the best team in the NHL during the current playoff run.  Apparently they needed a game off after today's lackluster effort.  They did not have the jump from previous games and looked like a team that knew it was in control and could afford giving one game away.  It's not a good mindset and I would expect them to jump all over the Coyotes in game five to lock up the series before Phoenix gets any upset thoughts.

Rangers/Devils

This series is just getting more and more exciting.  We have a suspension with Prust serving a one game elbowing penalty.  Coaches are going back and forth.  It's New York and New Jersey!  Goaltending has been the continued story and this should be no different as it moves along.  The Rangers look like the stronger team and could finish things out in six games, but I'm still calling for seven and exciting end to this eastern conference final.

mf

Thursday, May 17, 2012

Why the Kings Will Win the Cup

Many call the run the Kings are currently on a hot streak or even a miracle as an eight seed.  In reality it's a combination of building an organization, playing the right brand of hockey for today's game, and peaking at the right time.  The regular season is a grind that teams try to survive.  There are ups and downs and the Kings have had no shortage of those with firing their coach in the middle of the season and even trade talks involving their captain Dustin Brown.  This all seems like a distant memory now as the Kings are poised to make an unprecedented Stanley Cup run, but let's lay out the reasons they are in this position.

 

Key Free Agent Signings

The Kings brought on some high level talent and proven playoff performers in the off season.  They have continually picked up players that needed a change of scenery and the energy of a young, up and coming team like Kings.  That is why players like Mike Richards, Jeff Carter, and Dustin Penner fit in and eventually found ways to contribute.  These guys have all had success with other teams.  If you have an organization that understands how to put the pieces in the right place, you have success.  The Kings, led by new coach Darryl Sutter, have figured this out and are currently reaping the rewards.

 

Goaltending

Some teams strike gold with free agent signings at this position, but long term success comes from getting young goalies in your system and letting the develop their physical skills as well as their mental strength.  Jonathan Quick is no different, even playing games for the Kings ECHL team.  Their guys do their time and must prove that they belong.  They work hard and know what it takes to get to the top because they have already done by climbing through the minor league ranks.  Combine this situation with some talented players and you will find yourself with solid goaltending for years to come.

 

Excellent Farm System

15 players on the Kings playoff roster were either drafted and went straight to the Kings or played in their farm system.  The Kings organization took it's time and built a franchise from the ground up.  They have the right pieces in place and know what to expect from each one of them.  This is great scouting, excellent coaching and talent management, and players working hard to make their dreams come true.  It's a group of guys that has gone through it all together and will always sacrifice for the good of the team.

 

High Pace of Play

This is the most important key to the Kings success this postseason.  The Kings play faster than any other team in this years playoffs.  I'm talking about non stop forchecking, relentless pressure in the defensive zone, making hits and getting right back in the play, getting a defenseman in the rush every time, every player keeping their feet moving whenever they are on the ice, and let's face it, speed kills.  You do not get a rest when playing the Kings.  They are led by their energizer bunny captain Dustin Brown, but it filters it's way down through every man on the roster.  No other team plays like this and therefore cannot withstand this pressure.  There is always talk of the playoffs stepping up another level.  The Kings step it up three levels.  They are quicker, faster, and seemingly want it more than any other team.

It feels right when the best team to make the playoffs wins the Cup.  The Kings are without question the best team this year's playoffs. I fully expect the LA Kings to hoist the Stanley Cup and it should be a fun ride watching the rest of the way.

mf


The Official NHL Playoff Beard Rankings

CBC Sports has done a fan vote CBC - 5 Best Playoff Beards for the best beards remaining in this year's Stanley Cup playoff.  While I appreciate the effort they have made, the results show a lack of true understanding as to what a great playoff beard looks like (Scott Niedermayer, Lanny McDonald), and excludes any young players that have trouble growing the big thick beards (Sydney Crosby, Patrick Kane).  So let's establish a couple truly official best playoff beard rankings.  One from each team, plus one wildcard.  For images...watch the games!!

Best Beard

5. David Schlemko - Our wild card, from Phoenix, makes up for his lack of ice time with the scraggliest and perhaps best beard in the playoffs.  Schlemko comes in at 5 however because word on the street is he started a little early.  Nevertheless, the forest that is on his face dwarfs any other player left in the playoffs and likely scares away little children when off the ice.

4. Keith Yandle - The Coyote's Yandle has a picture perfect beard.  He maintains it magnificently and he should really be getting calls from Just For Men to do their next commercial.  Yandle's beard is almost too perfect for playoff hockey, but I will let the growth speak for itself.

3. Dustin Penner - The Kings are a tough choice as they have many viable candidates in this category.  Penner made the list because he brings an aura with he beard.  He is a large man that some may say resembles a lumber jack.  His beard is thick and dark and I say Penner be put on playoff postcards delivered from even the deepest wilderness parts in northern Canada.

2. Brandon Prust - Prust has it tough, having to wear a grizzly beard while living in fashion forward place like NYC.  He does it beautifully however with a mane suited for a king right out of Game of Thrones.  Maybe instead of King Henrik, we go with King Prust as he sets the standard of manliness amongst the baby faced Rangers.

1. Andy Greene - Greene's beard lives in it's own world.  All other beards bow down to this beard.  Greene's beard actually has it's own heart beat and eats it's own pregame meal.  Andy Greene has taken the playoff beard to a whole new level with it's dense and dark mass billowing off of his face,  and until the Devils are out of the playoffs it is the beard by which all beards will be measured.


Best Wannabe Beard

5. Alexei Ponikarovsky - On a team loaded with well attempted beards it is difficult to narrow down the best of the wannabes.  Ponikarovsky has made his case with the neck beard in full force and the lack of complete connection from ear to chin and mustache to chin.  Where it grows, it grows nicely, but the large areas that is does not lets him down dramatically.

4. Anze Kopitar - Kopitar desperately wants a full beard, but can't avoid the dirty European stereotype.  His beard is magical in it's patchiness, and shows amazing neck beard prowess. 

3. Alec Martinez - Martinez is well known for his neck beard and he is no let down this playoff season.  He must be given credit for growing thicker facial hair, but the patchiness still comes through and fails to make a complete connection, ear to chin.  Really, Martinez's beard is an advanced form of Kopitar's.  Perhaps they can team up to form one super beard...err full beard.

2. Brian Boyle - Boyle has mastered the art of the goatee.  In fact, he wins best goatee of the playoffs. But the NHL playoffs is about beards and the gleaming whiteness of Boyle's face transcends the dark fullness of the minimalist facial hair. 

1. Shane Doan - Doan brings the scraggly beard to new heights.  The goatee is grown in so nicely on the chin, and the side of his face looks like a balding man that stuck his finger in the light socket. The effort, desire, and even execution are clearly there for Doan, unfortunately the full on hair follicles are not.

There you have it.  There are many lessons to be learned from each of these men's facial growths, but most importantly it is the effort that is made that makes the playoff beard so revered. 

mf

Tuesday, May 15, 2012

Clean Hits Please

Hockey is the best contact sport on the planet.  It combines amazing skill with breathtaking speed all while players use physical force to knock each other off the puck and out of the play.  It is exhilarating to watch, except of course when ruthless illegal hits take place.

Shane Doan and Martin Havlat are both elite NHL players and key parts to any success the Coyotes have. The hits they made in Tuesday's playoff game against the Kings were unacceptable and they should both serve a one game suspension.

Havlat's hit is the more obvious suspension. Dustin Brown had his back turned the entire way to the boards and didn't ever actually touch the puck. Havlat hit him up high and put Brown in a very precarious position.  He does not have a history of illegal hits, but these are the areas the NHL needs to make a big effort to clean up. There was zero excuse for that kind of hit, and it truly puts someone's career and even life in danger.

Doan's hit was another that is unacceptable.  Regardless of when Trevor Lewis decides to turn his back to protect the puck, players cannot leap into hits.  Forwards turn all the time to create space and time when a defender is skating towards them. If Doan had made a clean play on Lewis, he would have been lower on the body and probably even wrapped up Lewis taking him to the boards legally rather than bouncing his face off the dasher and picking up a major penalty.  Both plays are 100% preventable on the players part, and the NHL must take immediate action to curb these infractions. Hockey is a better game when it's a clean game.

mf

Monday, May 14, 2012

Passing of the Torch

Martin Brodeur is the greatest goalie the NHL has ever seen.  I would be remiss not to mention Brodeur's fantastic play this post season.  Game one against the Rangers showcased his ability to make the impossible save even as he sails by his 40th birthday.  There are others up there on the list too, but his consistent play and longevity have moved him into a league of his own.  This Rangers/Devils series will be the official passing of the torch as Henrik Lundqvist is now cementing his place as the best goalie alive.

The Rangers pitiful offense is well documented, but look at these numbers!  The LA Kings have played 10 playoff games and scored 31 goals.  The Ranger have played 15 games and tallied 32 goals.  The team the Rangers now face, New Jersey, has 36 goals in just 13 games.  That of course includes Lundqvist shutting out the Devils in game one.

The true sign of a great athlete in any sport is not just making it look easy, it's making the extremely difficult look even easier.  Lundqvist's calm demeanor between the pipes, and cool collected technical style have backstopped the Rangers to an impressive run through the playoffs.  The best part is he is only half way done.  He delivers consistently like Brodeur.  He has learned to play the puck deftly like Brodeur.  He makes every save a goalie is expected to make and then some, like Brodeur.  Lundqvist gets it.  He thrives under pressure and plays each moment like it's overtime in game seven of the finals.  Opposing players know it's a blessing when they slide one by him.  Jonathan Quick and Mike Smith are having nice post season runs of their own, but let us all take notice of what Lundqvist is doing in New York and watch as the torch is officially passed.

mf

NBA Playoffs Round 2

The Eastern Conference games have already begun and the West will catch up tonight and tomorrow.  There are some intriguing matchups, but in the end it is really clear who will reach the conference finals.

Miam took game one from the Pacers, and while Indianapolis put up a good fight and Chris Bosh is possibly done for the season, I like the Heat in this series.  Lebron, regardless of past fourth quarter woes, is playing at a high level.  No Pacer can dream of matching up against him.  Wade, as he always does, has shown up big for the playoffs, and the Heat's supporting cast is solid led by Battier's lockdown defense.  With the absence of Bosh, Chalmers and Mike Miller will need to step up their outside shooting and Haslem will have an increasingly important role.  Lebron and Wade should be enough to breeze through these Pacers however.  Heat in 5.

Boston and Philadelphia is a tale of two completely different teams.  Aging teams like to slow things down and get their stars their shots.  Boston is no different and will look for Rondo to continue his triple-double assault setting up Pierce and Ray Allen consistently.  The big surprise for the Celtics is certainly the elevated play of Kevin Garnett.  He looks young and rejuvinated, averaging a double-double in the playoffs and dominating Lavoy Allen and Elton Brand in game one.  The Sixers gave the Celtics a hard time in the regular season and will try and push the tempo to get as many fast break points as possible, but that will not be enough against the experience and high level of play the Celtics are bringing to these playoffs.  Celtics in 6.

Oklahoma City Thunder should be salivating at their chance to take down the Los Angeles Lakers.  The Lakers have beaten the young Thunder in the playoffs a few times, but those times have changed.  Even if World Peace can continue the strong play from game seven against Denver, the Lakers have no way of containing Kevin Durant and especially Russell Westbrook.  Combine the domination they will bring with James Harden's outstanding play all season and this should be a quick end to the Lakers season.  Bynum and Gasol have the ability to make things difficult on the Thunder, but based on their lackluster play thus far, it's hard to see them turning things around.  And just so we say his name, Kobe.  Thunder in 6.

Finally, we have the San Antonio Spurs.  They will win their series against the Clippers.  Chris Paul is the best point gaurd in the series, but Tony Parker has the best team.  Parker, Manu Ginobili, and Tim Duncan will lead this deep Spurs team past the banged up and tired Clippers.  The Clippers have been entertaining and seem to have a bright future assuming some of their young players can continue to grow and learn to contribute in more ways than highlight reel plays.  Meanwhile the Spurs just keep winning and do so regardless of whether anyone appreciates their methodical style of play.  Spurs in 5.

mf

NHL Conference Finals

The Stanley Cup playoffs are officially half way over and we are left with three teams that no one picked to make it this far.

The Kings and Coyotes are the more unlikely pairing with the traditional powers like Vancouver, Detroit, San Jose and Chicago all knocked out early. What it gives us though are two high paced exciting teams to watch. Both full of young stars in the making, this series should be a fun up and down the ice battle. Goaltenders are always the talk of the playoffs as they should be and Quick and Smith continue this tradition. Both have been consistently reliable and even carrying their teams at times.

What I have really enjoyed however is the pace each team plays at. Guys like Kopitar, Brown and Richards for the Kings force the issue and put opposing defensemen on their heals constantly. They are relentless pursuing the puck, and consequently put the puck in the net often. The Kings blue liners, while doing a fine job in their own end, play with the same mentality always looking to add a third or fourth attacker every time they create a turnover. Coming into this series my pick was Kings in six games, and after game one I would even lean towards five games.

The Rangers and Devils seem a little more traditional even though most picked either the Flyers or Penguins to be here rather than the Devils. Goaltending must be discussed since you have this season's likely Vezina Trophy winner at one end in Lundqvist, and arguably the best goalie of all time at the other end in Brodeur. They have played a major role in getting their respective teams to this point. How Brodeur still makes saves stacking the pads is amazing to me. The position has become so technical in the last 10 years and any one playing the position is expected to play in that way, and yet he continues to shine and be a consistent difference maker night in and night out. Lundqvist, playing in that technical way, has played phenomenally well in the playoffs and continues to cement his status as the best goalie in the game today.

The depth of each team has been constantly overlooked because of the stellar goaltending. Both teams play with true desperation each night shown by players throwing their bodies in front of shots, making key plays to clear the zone defensively, and driving the net hard putting opposing goalies in a tough way. When you play either team your goalie will not be seeing most pucks that come on goal. Neither the Devils nor the Rangers put a lot of pucks in the net, but they are timely and take advantage of opportunities. Just ask the Capitals about their high sticking double minor that led to two Rangers goals in 4 minutes to put the Rangers in the drivers seat of that series. Parise and Callahan are both tremendous leaders that refuse to stop working and driving their teams towards the Cup. This has been a difficult series to pick, but I am going with the Rangers in seven.

Kings in 6
Rangers in 7

mf

Saturday, May 12, 2012

We're Talking Playoffs - Game 7's!

NBA and NHL playoff rounds are both down to Game 7.  We have two series playing out tonight that should be over by now, but in true sporting form the underdog has risen up to give us a couple exciting seven game series.

Let's talk Lakers/Nuggets quickly. We know Kobe will show up, simple fact. Do Bynum, Gasol, and a fresh Metta No Worldpeace make any difference? If its only Kobe we will witness a great collapse by a storied franchise. The Nuggets have momentum and they play with energy. You know what to expect from them and I believe they have a great opportunity to move through to the second round.

Game 7's in the NHL always have a wide open feel.  No one would be surprised if the Capitals or the Rangers came away with the win. That is the fun in hockey.  Unheralded stars are born in games like this. Many would expect Ovechkin or Gaborik to shine and be the difference maker in such an important game. The cards never fall this way as any hockey fan would attest.  Look for the third and fourth lines to make a difference at the end of a long and grueling series.  The Caps have played gritty in this postseason, but the Rangers have proven they can play that style all season.  I give them the edge in this game, but do not count out the young goaltender Holtby to make a big stand for Washington.  As a fan I certainly hope to see an overtime game with Callahan being the hero as the Rangers move on to setup the cross river showdown with the New Jersey Devils.

Rangers 3 Capitals 2 OT
Lakers 99 Nuggets 97

mf

Friday, May 11, 2012

Will Chris Paul play Game 6?

Injuries have been the talk of this years playoffs and this possible deciding game between the other LA team and Memphis is no different.  Tonight's game comes down to Chris Paul playing and his effectiveness if he does.  No, not the highlight reel Blake Griffin. CP3, the best point guard in the NBA, the best point guard since Isiah.

The Clippers go as Chris Paul goes.  He drives everything for that team.  He is a great leader and a killer when it comes to crunch time.  If he is effective in this game, the series will end tonight.  He just has that much sway in this series and every time he steps on the court.  If Paul does not play, it will be back to Memphis for game 7 and a likely series victory for the Grizzlies who have shown flashes of last seasons playoff surprise but no consistentcy thus far. 

Thursday, May 10, 2012

Tiger Will Be Back

As we watch Tiger struggle at the Players Championship, it is becoming hard to remember the days of his domination on Tour.  But yes, he will be back, it will just be a little while.  There is only one area that Tiger is lacking in at the moment, but unfortunately it is the most important area when talking elite athletes: the head.

Tiger, at his pinnacle, was the premier athlete in golf and in the world.  His combination of talent, aggressive play, intimidation factor, and mental toughness made watching a guy play golf must see TV.  He wasn't just better than everyone on tour.  Tiger demoralized competitors because he could grind them down and keep the pressure on them four straight rounds every time he teed it up.  The mental ability to ignore anything outside of his little world and focus with a killer instinct made him untouchable on the golf course. 

When it all came crumbling down in November 2010, Tiger found himself in a whole new world of celebrity athletes.  It was no longer good enough to focus just on his golf game.   Whether you like his lifestyle or not, his privacy was ripped away and the comfort within it as well. 

Tiger has had physical issues and swing changes as well, but his talent did not up and disappear.  Watch him play a few rounds and you can see he still has the ability to hammer his driver down the middle, stick it close on approaches, and make putts (at times).  Tiger is missing his consistency.  He is missing his focus.  He may practice just as much or more, but in his head he is still searching for answers, searching for a way back to the top in the midst of all the focus on his personal life. 

Tiger has experimented with many ways of sharpening his focus and resolve and has yet to find the remedy.  So stop blaming swing changes and physical pains for Tiger's woes.  Until he finds a way to return his mental state to "pre car wrapped around a tree Tiger", he will continue to wallow in mediocrity.

mf

NBA Elimination Night

Or not so much...

The only team that will finish off their series tonight will be the Boston Celtics.  The Lakers and Sixers will be forced to endure the spectacle that is a Game 7 in American professional sports.  Boston will use experience and strong performances from Rondo and Allen to put away a heartless Atlanta team once and for all. 

The aging Celtics will get some extra rest as they wait for the Bulls to come back in their series and win in 7 games.  The Bulls are good enough without Rose to beat a middle of the road team like the Sixers.  It has taken them a few games to get back in the groove without their superstar, but they will pull this series out providing an easy second round win for Boston. 

The Lakers will hope to rally around a sick Kobe Bryant who will try his best MJ impression ('97 flu game) tonight but will come up just a little short.  It will take 7 for the Lakers to pull out this series against the scrappy Nuggets.  George Karl knows how to get the most out of his rag tag bunch and tonight they will make one final stand for a game 6 win.

mf

A Word on Consussions

The death of Junior Seau has once more fueled the fires of concussion discussions in the NFL.  What is sports place in our society and why continue with games that continually destroy players bodies and have been shown to end them as well?  The culture of sport is nothing new to the human race.

I myself have had my "bell rung" on more than one occasion.  The stars twirling around a cartoon characters head after a big collision is not far from the truth. I would see them in my eyes as I skated away from a check and headed to the bench to collect myself.  A short two minute rest, shake it off, and then right back at every player would go.  At least the stars only happen the first time.  

It is overstated, but the truth is you keep going through those walls and battling because it's the tradition of sport and what makes an athlete great.  This is the choice of all athletes that reach a high level of competition.  The guy that gets hit once and hangs them up is not respected and will not make it.  Toughness isn't just a trait you find in some players.  Each player on the field/court/ice makes the choice to live a life of toughness, continually practicing and playing through extreme physical conditions.  This choice is rewarded with more playing time, bigger contracts, Sports Center Top 10 clips, YouTube hits, Twitter follows, Facebook pages, and countless other ways of recognition. 

Fans long for the physicality of sports.  Bigger, faster, stronger human beings hitting each other without regard for safety.  Athletes today are really modern day gladiators - the Romans would be so proud of pro sports leagues.  Sport has always evolved over the centuries.  Gladiators used weapons to literally kill one another.  Knights rode at each other with lances and greatly injured or killed one another.  Boxing held America's fancy for nearly 100 years as fans watched muscle bound men clobber one another.  For 50 years, professional football, hockey, and other modern day sports have pushed violence and physicality to the brink.

Sport will always exist and in a physical manner.  Athletes will make the decision to chase their dreams and make a living by playing a game.  It does not even matter if football goes the way of boxing as some media talking heads are now stating.  It will just be replaced by something new because we all cannot live without seeing humans battle one another to the bitter end, testing strength and might to establish a champion.