Newcastle manager Alan Pardew head-butted a player in an English Premier League game against Hull on Saturday, leading to a swift formal warning and 100,000-pound ($168,000) fine from his club, and facing the prospect of a lengthy touchline ban. The touchline confrontation unfolded in the 72nd minute when Hull midfielder David Meyler barged into Pardew as he looked to retrieve the ball for a throw-in at KC Stadium. After squaring up to Meyler before moving his head in the direction of the players face, Pardew was sent to the stands. FA chairman Greg Dyke described Pardews actions as "serious" after Newcastles 4-1 win, and said an investigation would be opened. Pardews employers reacted quickly, holding urgent talks with the manager and announcing his punishment hours later. "His behaviour was unacceptable and is not the behaviour we expect from the manager of Newcastle United," the northeast club said on its website. Pardew, whose job does not appear to be under immediate threat, accepted the formal warning and fine, Newcastle said. "Alan unreservedly apologized immediately following the game to the player, to Hull City Football Club and its fans, and to the fans of Newcastle United," the club statement said. "We have held discussions this evening with Alan, who has offered his sincere apologies to the club and it is clear he deeply regrets his actions." Although Pardew denied head-butting Meyler, he conceded the incident was "a wake-up call," coming after a recent touchline altercation with Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini. "(Meyler) was right on top of me and I wanted to just ease him away from me but obviously I put my head in a forward motion," Pardew said after the game. "I want to apologize to him, everyone at Hull and obviously my own fans as well. I dont think it was a head-butt. It wasnt a motion that was quick. "Sometimes when youre on the sideline like that you can get involved in a moment like that. It was an incident that just flared up all around me. I just wanted to get him away." Pardew said he would "accept whatever comes my way" as a punishment, and he was likely to be prevented from sitting on the bench for several games by the FA. Newcastles statement expressed disappointment that Pardews behaviour took the focus off such a fine attacking performance against Hull. Newcastle was already leading 3-1 at the time of the incident after Moussa Sissoko scored twice on either side of Loic Remys goal. With Pardew in the stands, Vurnon Anita added the fourth in stoppage time. Cheap NHL Jerseys . INJURIES - Cardinals 1B Matt Adams has been put on the DL with calf tightness, resulting in some lineup shifting, with Allen Craig moving from right field to first base, so that the Cardinals could bring up top prospect Oscar Taveras, who was the No. NHL Jerseys China . Argentina, who have yet to beat New Zealand in 17 meetings, rocked the All Blacks with an early converted try to backrower Juan Manuel Leguizamon and led 7-0 after five minutes. But Smiths double in the 23rd and 26th minutes - when Argentina was reduced to 14 men by the sin-binning of hooker Eusebio Guinazu - turned the tide of the match and set up New Zealands third straight Championship win. https://www.cheapnhljerseysjustwholesale.com/. -- New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft wanted to keep Logan Mankins with the team for a long time. NHL Jerseys 2020 . Kerber will next play Estonias Kaia Kanepi, who beat American qualifier Victoria Duval 6-1, 6-3. In other first-round matches, Lucie Safarova beat 2010 French Open champion Francesca Schiavone 6-4, 6-4 and American Bethanie Mattek-Sands had a 6-4, 6-3 win over Canadas Eugenie Bouchard. NHL Jerseys .Manager Brendan Rodgers told the Liverpool Echo on Friday that Sturridge pulled his calf muscle in training as he prepared to return from a five-week layoff due to a thigh strain.OKLAHOMA CITY -- Serge Ibaka walked slowly and carefully, but without a limp, before facing reporters Saturday afternoon. Much has been made of the Oklahoma City defensive stars absence in the first two games of the Western Conference finals series against the San Antonio Spurs. The 6-foot-10 power forward strained his left calf in the previous playoff series, and the Thunder said they expected him to be out for the playoffs. The team changed course Friday and declared him day-to-day. He worked out Saturday, but he didnt practice before addressing the media for the first time since his outlook changed. With Ibaka, the leagues leading shot blocker, the Thunder were one of the best defensive teams the NBA. Without him, the Spurs shot at least 50 per cent in the first two games of the Western Conference Finals and won them by a combined 52 points. As he stood for the five-minute session wearing a black compression sock over the calf, he deflected claims that he could be a saviour heading into Game 3 on Sunday. "Ive been hearing a lot of people saying my team lost two games because I was out," he said. "Thats not true. I believe in my guys. I believe in my teammates. They can be better with me or without me. Its no excuse because Serge Ibaka was not there. Just San Antonio, the first two games, they played better basketball." Ibaka said he sometimes screamed at his television set when he watched scenarios in which he could have made plays during the losses. He is not sure if he will play in Game 3 -- he said it is up to doctors, and much will depend on how he feels in the morning. For now, he will depend largely on rest, ice and luck. His presence is needed, even if he is less than fully healthy. Kendrick Perkins, Nick Collison and Perry Jones have struggled against the Spurs big men. Kevin Durant, normally a small forward, has played some power forward in the series because of Ibakas absence, and his relative lack of physical strength and unfamiliarity with playing post defence has been exploited. The Spurs prepared all along as though he would return. "It gives them another hell of a player," Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said, "but we are who we are and weve got to be who we are. We cant change what we do." Even if Ibaka returns, it will not fully solve Oklahoma Citys problems defending the perimeter. San Antonio has made 18 of 40 3-pointers in the series and guards Tony Parker annd Manu Ginobili are slashing into the paint with stunning frequency, often scoring or finding their teammates for open shots.dddddddddddd. The Thunder say it starts with basics. "Its just an individual effort," Perkins said. "Got to put it in your mind that you want to stop the guy in front of you, and thats it. Backside got to be ready. But the thing is when they penetrate, thats what opens those threes. Well do a better job of keeping the ball in front of us, but weve just got to be individual and youve got to want the match up." To be fair, San Antonio shares the ball like no one else. The Spurs led the league with 25.4 assists per game during the regular season. That average is up to 27.5 against Oklahoma City. Parker and Ginobili generate many of the assists, but many others come from simple ball movement. "We dont have a Durant," Ginobili said. "We dont have a Kobe (Bryant) or LeBron (James) that can go one against one and finish every single time. We need to pass the ball to find open teammates, and thats what we do, and thats what weve been doing. We all feel proud about it. We know when we have 25 assists or 30, we are much better and we try to do that every time." Because the Spurs generally have five capable scorers on the floor at a time, it forces opponents to have a greater attention to detail than usual. "Theyve got threats," Durant said. "Everybody on their team is a threat because of their offence. They move the ball. Theyve got 3-point shooters. You take away 3-point shooters, they get the role guys and they get the paint points. You take away that and they start hitting the threes. So we have to do both. We have to be able to close the paint up and get out to shooters. Easier said than done, but we can do it." The Spurs are off to a good start, but experience tells them they wont have as easy a time in Oklahoma City. And in 2012, Oklahoma City fell behind San Antonio 2-0 in the Western Conference finals before winning the series 4-2. "Weve got to know that in their arena its going to be different," Ginobili said. "Theyre going to be way more aggressive, theyre going to be pushed by their fans. We just won two games. They are going to make more shots, they are going to attack harder, they are going to go to the free-throw line more.So, there are a lot of things that they can do much better and were not going to make as many shots." ' ' '
AVONDALE, La. -- When Ben Martin played junior golf, his father, Jim, would tell him that his demeanour should be the same every time he walked off a green, whether he made birdie or double bogey. That might explain why Martin seemed so calm when his game briefly unraveled Friday in the middle of the second round of the Zurich Classic, and why he righted himself quickly enough to post the best two-round score ever at TPC Louisiana. Martin, who shot a course-record 62 on Thursday, shook off his first bogey and double bogey of the tournament to finish with a 67 on Friday, putting him at 15 under -- three shots ahead of closest pursuer Andrew Svoboda. If the 26-year-old Martin can continue to show that type of composure, he might capture his first PGA Tour victory. "Thats my personality in general. Sometimes my wife gets mad at me because I dont get excited about anything," Martin said. "And then I dont get down too much, either. Thats golf. You cant expect to shoot 62 every day." Svoboda followed his opening 64 with a 68. Robert Streb (66) and Sueng-Yul Noh (68) were tied for third at 11 under. Erik Compton also shot a 68 and was at 10 under, a score that keeps the two-time heart transplant recipient in contention for his maiden PGA Tour triumph. Tied with Compton for fifth was Peter Hanson, who shot 69, four shots off the pace of his strong opening round. Keegan Bradley (66), Jeff Overton (68) and Charley Hoffman (67) were 9 under. Graham DeLaet of Weyburn, Sask., is tied for 12th and eight shots back after shooting a 68. David Hearn of Brantford, Ont., meanwhile is in a tie for 67th after shooting 71. The tournament record score at TPC Louisiana-- which is hosting New Orleans PGA Tour event for the ninth time -- is 20 under, set last year by Billy Horschel. For a while, it looked as if Martin might match that in the second round. Starting the day on the 10th hole, Martin hit an 8-iron 160 yards to a foot to set up his first birdie. On the par-5 11th, he used a 54-degree sand wedge to chip in from nearly 58 feet, one day after he chipped in with the same club from 55 feet on 17. He then sank a 7-foot putt for birdie on 13. Martin said his hot start was cooled off, almost poetically, by the sound of ice being poured into a cooler in one of the VIP suites overlooking the par-3 17th hole. It forced him to back away from a putt attempt, and he wound up three-putting. Then he proceeded to hit his drive into water to the right of the 18th fairway, and three-putted for a double bogey. Yet, as he walked off the green, he smiled slightly and proceeded calmly and purposefully to the first tee, where he made the first of four birdies on his second nine. Thats the kind of composure Martins wife, Kelly, has come to know well. "When he comes off the course, you wouldnt know if he shot 10 under or 10 over," she said. Svoboda, who will tee off with the final group for the first time in a PGA Tour event, continued to be pleased with his putting, which he credited in part to a new putter with a shaft bent to 71 degrees and grooves on the face. "Im hitting the ball great and Im putting really well," said Svoboda, whose highlights included a 40-yard bunker shot to set up a 12-foot birdie putt on the par-5 second hole. He didnt have a single bogey in the tournament until his final hole of the day, when he three-putted the par-3 ninth. "I hit a bad second putt there," he said of his miss from 6 feet. "But I dug pretty hard today. I played really well, so Im pretty happy." DIVOTS: The cut line was 2 under, and 84 players made it to the weekend, with a couple players -- such as Max Homa and Kevin Tway, making birdie putts on their final shots to sneak in. Those putts should be worth no less than $11,600, tournament officials said, and possibly much more. ... Ernie Els, the 2012 British Open winner, missed the cut by a stroke. Horschel missed by two strokes, marking the fourth time he has missed the cut in his last eight starts. ... David Duval was tied for 12th at 7 under. ... The 36-hole tournament record belongs to Scott Verplank, a 16-under 128 at English Turn in 2003. The now-previous 36-hole tournament record of 12-under 132 at TPC Louisiana belonged to three players: Lucas Glover (2013) Jason Dufner (2012) and Jason Bohn (2010). ... The weather for the second round was mostly cloudy, 82 degrees, with wind of 6 to 12 mph. Custom Boston Red Sox Jerseys . -- Phil Mickelson came to the St. Custom Columbus Blue Jackets Jerseys . Jason Zucker and Matt Cooke also scored for Minnesota, which has won five of six. Kuemper made five saves in the first, nine in the second, and nine in the third. The rookies best save came with 2:17 left in the third period when he denied former Wild forward Matt Cullen from just outside of the crease on the right side. https://www.cheapcustomjerseysonline.com...ackers-jerseys/. CHAUNCEY BILLUPS (Pistons): Yes they got Josh Smith and Brandon Jennings in the off-season and Andre Drummond is a beast (teams are kicking themselves for passing on him - he rebounds and block shots every game - thats two more discernable and significant skills than most guys in his draft class), but dont for a second discount the impact of having a savvy veteran like Billups on your team. Custom Minnesota Vikings Jerseys . Dont miss a single shot, live on TSN beginning at 7pm et/4pm pt. Winners of their last eight games, the Heat return to Toronto for the second time in the month of November. After beginning the season 4-3, allowing 100.9 points on 47 per cent shooting, Miamis resurgent defence has vaulted them back to the top of a weak Eastern Conference. Custom Los Angeles Kings Jerseys . After deputy commissioner Bill Daly said the league would consider pulling out of Sochi if something "significant" happens before players arrive, those set to participate are trying not to worry about that scenario.TORONTO -- Calgary grabbed the most selections but the Toronto Argonauts Ricky Ray and Darian Durant of the Saskatchewan Roughriders were voted the top quarterbacks for the CFL East and West in 2013. Calgary grabbed a league-leading 10 spots on the western squad as the division all-star teams were announced Wednesday. Rays numbers were held back as he missed six games to injury and sat out the last game of the season. But he still finished with 234 completed passes out of 303 tries for a career high 77.2 per cent, tops among CFL starting quarterbacks. Durant finished the season with 4,154 passing yards and a league-leading 31 touchdown strikes. Saskatchewan and Montreal were tied with nine selections each. Toronto was next at eight, with Hamilton and B.C. at six each, Winnipeg at four and Edmonton at two. Representing the West at running back is Calgarys Jon Cornish, the CFL rushing leader, and Saskatchewans Kory Sheets, the runner-up. Hamiltons C.J. Gable and Winnipegs Will Ford share the honour in the East. Sheets and Cornish were both unanimous selections. Torontos Chad Owens was one of the four receivers named in the East and Edmontons Fred Stamps was a unanimous pick as one of the four in the West, after leading the league with 1,259 receiving yards. The others were Torontos Andre Durie, Hamiltons Bakari Grant, Montreals S.J. Green, Saskatchewans Weston Dressler and Chris Getzlaf and Calgarys Marquay McDaniel. The offensive lineman named for the East were Montreals Josh Bourke, Winnipegs Glenn January, Torontos Chris Van Zeyl and Jeff Keeping and Hamiltons Greg Wojt. For the West it was Calgarys Brett Jones, Jon Gott and Stanley Bryant, B.C.s Jovan Olafioye and Saskatchewans Brendon Labatte. For January, a seven-year CFL veteran who has made the East all-star squad three times now, the honour was bittersweet after the Bombers finished last at 3-15, tied for their worst record ever in the 18-game CFL. "It was an extremely difficult season forr us and I think its been well documened that a lot of are frustrated that the season went the way it did," he said.dddddddddddd "Its nice to have individual acknowledgment but I sure wish I was playing this weekend." Defensive players include CFL tackle leader Chip Cox from Montreal and runner-up Henoc Muamba from Winnipeg in the East, and sack-leader Charleston Hughes from Calgary and Saskatchewans Alex Hall in the West. Muamba said terrible season or not, the fact that four Bombers made the all-star list helps show that the team never gave up. "Its a testament to the fact that myself personally, I didnt quit, and for the rest of the all-stars. It goes to prove that there were a lot of guys in that room that never quit, despite the things that were going on and the season that we had." He also sounded a little more positive at the prospect of returning to the Bombers, although he said his agent is still in negotiations with the team. Six of Montreals all-star selections were on defence. Besides Cox, John Bowman, Geoff Tisdale, Jerald Brown, Billy Parker and Mike Edem were named. Torontos Khalif Mitchell and Patrick Watkins, Winnipegs Bryant Turner and Hamiltons Brandon Boudreaux complete the defence for the East. In the West it was Saskatchewans Tearrius George, Dwight Anderson and Tyron Brackenridge; B.C.s Adam Bighill, Solomon Elimimian, Cord Parks, Dante Marsh and Ryan Phillips; Calgarys Juwan Simpson and Edmontons Almondo Sewell. Calgary swept the special teams category in the West with league-leading kicker Rene Paredes, punter Rob Maver and the CFLs leader in combined return yards, Larry Taylor. Hamilton claimed two spots in the East for punter Josh Bartel and tackle-leader Marc Beswick, while Montreals Sean Whyte took kicker. The lists are voted on by coaches and members of the Football Reporters of Canada. The CFL will announce its all-star team, featuring players from both divisions, in early December. ' ' '
Philadelphia, PA (SportsNetwork.com) - PGA TOUR - HERO WORLD CHALLENGE, Isleworth Golf & Country Club, Windermere, Florida - After a week off, the PGA Tour is back in action at the Hero World Challenge, which is hosted by Tiger Woods. Last year, Zach Johnson made par on the first playoff hole to defeat Woods and win this event for the first time. Johnson shot up the leaderboard with a final-round, 4-under 68 to join Woods (70) at 13-under-par 275 at the end of regulation. Both Johnson and Woods are back in the field again this week along with 16 others. The field features 18 players who are all ranked in the top 40 in the world, including seven of the top 11 and 15 of the top 25. Woods is back in action after taking time off to get healthy and to get his game on track. He last played at the PGA Championship at the beginning of August, where Woods missed the cut. Woods played in just eight events last season and withdrew from two of them. Keegan Bradley, Jason Day, Rickie Fowler, Billy Horschel, Chris Kirk, Matt Kuchar, Hunter Mahan, Hideki Matsuyama, Graeme McDowell, Patrick Reed, Justin Rose, Jordan Spieth, Henrik Stenson, Steve Stricker, Jimmy Walker and Bubba Watson are the other 16 players this week. Golf Channel will have extensive coverage of all four days, including early coverage on the weekend before handing things off to NBC on Saturday and Sunday afternoons. The PGA Tour will be back in Florida again next week for the Franklin Templeton Shootout, where Matt Kuchar and Harris English defeated Retief Goosen and Freddie Jacobson by seven last year. EUROPEAN TOUR NEDBANK GOLF CHALLENGE, Gary Player Country Club, Sun City, South Africa - The European Tour kicks off its 2014-15 campaign this week with the Nedbank Golf Challenge, where Thomas Bjorn emerged victorious by two shots last season. Bjorn fired a 7-under 65 in his final round last year to finish at 20-under- par 268, which was two shots better than Sergio Garcia and Jamie Donaldson. Last years win was the last victory Bjorn earned on the European Tour. He has 15 in his career. Bjorn is back in the field again this week along with 29 others. The 2014 U.S. Open champion Martin Kaymer will also be in action this week. The field consists of 25 players ranked between 12th and 86th in the world rankings. Other notable players participating this week are Luke Donald, Jamie Donaldson, Stephen Gallacher, Miguel Angel Jimenez, Louis Oosthuizen, Charl Schwartzel and Lee Westwood. The golf Channel will have early morning coverage of all four rounds. The European Tour will be back in South Africa for its second of three straight events there for the Alfred Dunhill Championship, where Schwartzel ran away with a 4-shot win over Richard Finch last year. LPGA TOUR LPGA FINAL QUALIFYING TOURNAMENT, LPGA International (Arthur Hills Course/Rees Jones Course), Daytona Beach, Florida - A total of 155 players have reached the final stage of the LPGA Q School as they attempt to earn a spot on tour for the upcoming season in 2015. The top-20 finishers this week will earn category 12 status on the LPGA Tour priority list, while those finishing between 21 and 45 get category 17 status. Those who do not earn category 12 or 17 status will still have the opportunity to play for status on the Symetra Tour priority list. Last year, Jaye Marie Green ran away with a 10-shot victory at this event. Green carded five straight rounds in the 60s, including a 10-under 62 in the first round. Green shot a 4-under 68 on the final day to finish at 29-under- par 331. In 2014, Green missed 11 cuts in 22 events and she did not finish inside the top 10 once. Greens best finish came at the Marathon Classic, where she tied for 18th. There is no television coverage this week. The event lasts five rounds and begins on Wednesday. This is the last tournament for the LPGA Tour until the 2015 season kicks off on Jan. 28 in Florida at the Coates Golf Championship, which is a new event. Kyle Schwarber Jersey . On a hot, sweaty day, the Hall of Famer looked cool and comfortable. Yu Darvish Jersey . The agreement comes a little more than one week after the video game manufacturer agreed to a $40 million settlement in a similar but separate case, bringing the total payout planned for athletes to $60 million, said Steve Berman, an attorney for the plaintiffs, and the NCAA. https://www.cheapcubs.com/1340t-kosuke-f...ersey-cubs.html. Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane wanted to stay in Chicago and the Blackhawks wanted to keep the high-scoring forwards in the only NHL uniform they have ever known. Allen Webster Cubs Jersey . -- Phil Mickelson came to the St. Manny Trillo Jersey . Ho-Sang is a highly regarded prospect, as seen in TSNs Midseason Rankings. This was Game 3 of their playoff series and that wasnt the only strange incident in Londons 10-2 win over Windsor.BUFFALO, N.Y. - The Buffalo Sabres are raising the price of season tickets despite coming off one of their worst years. The team announced Wednesday that prices are going up from between $1 and $4 per game next year. That translates into a $170 hike over an entire season for the most expensive seats. Sabres president Ted Black explained the hike in price is in part to ensure the team meets league standardds to qualify for revenue sharing.dddddddddddd The Sabres are offering rebates on merchandise and concession stand prices to those who renew their season-ticket packages. The increases come after Buffalo (21-51-10) finished with the NHLs worst record. There remains a high demand for Sabres tickets. Last year, the team capped season-ticket sales at 16,000, about 3,000 below arena capacity. ' ' '
Vancouver, BC (SportsNetwork.com) - Frederik Andersen turned aside 17 shots for his third shutout of the season to guide the Anaheim Ducks to a 4-0 win over the Vancouver Canucks on Tuesday. Rickard Rakell had a goal and an assist while Patrick Maroon, Matt Beleskey and Kyle Palmieri also scored for the Ducks, who have ripped off six straight victories. Ryan Miller allowed three goals on 23 shots for the Canucks, who have lost their past two. Fake Cubs Jerseys . -- Michigan coach John Beilein is willing to give Nik Stauskas a little leeway when it comes to shot selection. Fergie Jenkins Cubs Jersey .ca. In Sundays Blackhawks-Penguins game, Pittsburgh defenceman Brooks Orpik laid a huge hit on Chicagos Jonathan Toews. Now in my view, Orpik can be clearly seen leaving his feet while delivering a moderately high hit. https://www.cheapcubs.com/1880t-jerome-w...y-cubs.html.com) - Jeff Teague finished with a game-high 26 points and eight assists as the Atlanta Hawks held off the Utah Jazz, 98-92, on Friday. Rowan Wick Jersey . Following the Ford Womens World Curling Championship gold medal match that attracted record-breaking audiences to TSN, the networks exclusive live coverage of the tournament begins Saturday at 7am et/4am pt with Canadas opening draw against Denmark. Robel Garcia Cubs Jersey . The outdoor event will be played on Dec. 31 between alumni of the New York Rangers and Philadelphia Flyers at Citizens Bank Park, the home of the Philadelphia Phillies.TORONTO - Toronto FC manager Ryan Nelsen says hes concerned about the rough treatment being meted out to star striker Jermain Defoe. The five-foot-seven English forward will have to sit out Saturdays game against visiting Sporting Kansas City after receiving a caution last weekend in Houston, when he was essentially hurled to the ground by six-foot-four Dynamo defender David Horst during an altercation. Only Defoe saw yellow, his fifth of the season which triggered a one-game ban. Nelsens beef is that officials seem to be swayed by simulation and the extras that can follow a foul rather the actual incident. "Hes such a honest player," Nelsen said of Defoe. "Especially in England, you dont dive, you dont fall down, you dont complain. You get that sort of treatment and you have to deal with it. "But over here, a lot of players fall and dive and roll. And the referees react on that. Where(as) our guys are sometimes a wee bit too honest and they take the punishment. The league talks about stamping out all that play, but just because our guys dont dive, it doesnt mean its not happening. "Thats the thing that frustrates me the most is that the referees, they react on what happened if its a dive or its a roll or something like that, then they react. And not the actual impact itself, which they should be doing." No stranger to having a target on his back, the 145-pound Defoe has not complained and has shown he can take care of himself, not backing down from anyone.dddddddddddd But the 31-year-old has surprised even himself with the five cautions so far in his first season in MLS. "Which is unusual for me," he said after the midweek friendly with Tottenham. "I dont normally get involved, I dont really get yellow cards and that." Defoe understands, however, that opposing teams are looking to get him off his game. "Well thats their job at the end of the day," he said after the recent 1-1 tie with Vancouver."Youve got to do whatever it takes to win the game. "Obviously Im not in their changing room, I dont know what the manager says or what they do, but at the end of the day, for me, Ive just go to get into the areas where Im going to score goals. And obviously theyre going to try and do stuff, I suppose, to put me off my game. But its not a problem. Its important just to keep focused and as a forward make sure when we get the chances, that we put them away." Going into this weekends round of play, Defoe was one of 13 players with five cautions. D.C. United midfielder Perry Kitchen led the league with seven yellow cards while six players had six cautions. Defoe leads TFC in yellows, despite only having played 14 of 17 league games. Portlands Darlington Nagbe led the league with 61 fouls suffered in 20 games. Defoe was not in the top 10. But as Torontos leading scorer, with 11 of the clubs 26 goals, he is a key to the attack. Defoe ranks fourth in league scoring. ' ' '
The NHLs Mar. 2 Trade Deadline is approaching and teams are making decisions on whether to buy or sell and decide which players can make the biggest difference and hold the greatest value. Check out todays trade rumours and speculation from around the NHL beat. And follow TradeCentre on TSN and TSN.ca through Deadline Day for all the updates. No Reunion Planned? Ottawa Senators general manager Bryan Murray confirmed on Friday he attempted to make a deal with the Arizona Coyotes to acquire Antione Vermette. Murray told members of the media he believed several weeks ago Vermette, who is set for unrestricted free agency this summer, could improve the team for a playoff push, but the Senators are now past that stage of needing a rental player. The Senators general manager added that he believes Coyotes general manager Don Maloney is now entertaining offers from a number of teams for Vermette and a return to Ottawa is unlikely. The Senators are no longer interested in acquiring players with expiring contracts. “Ill try to do something,” Murray said of his trade deadline plans, “but it has to go hand in hand with what happens in the future as well. Vermette was drafted by the Senators in the second round of 2000 NHL Draft. Putting on a Show? Defenceman John Moore slipped back into the New York Rangers lineup Thursday night after sitting five straight games, a move Larry Brooks of New York Post speculates was made with an eye on the trade market. Brooks believes Moore, who is eligible for salary arbitration this offseason, is certain to be dealt by the Rangers prior to free agency and therefore, the Rangers are showcasing the 24-year-old in an attempt to lure teams looking for a younger defenceman at the deadline. Marc Methot of the Ottawa Senators and Andrej Sekera of the Carolina Hurricanes are both impeding free agents Brooks believes the Rangers could fetch in exchange. Moore has four assists and an even plus-minus in 28 games with the Rangers this season. The was a first-round draft pick in 2009. Not the Mike Show Toronto Maple Leafs general manager was in Manchester last night to the Los Angeles Kings’ AHL franchise play, however the trip was not made because Mike Richards was sent to the Monarchs earlier this week. TSN Hockey Insider Pierre LeBrun reports Nonis’s scouting trip had been planned for a while and had nothing to do with Richards’s demotion. LeBrun adds, however, the Leafs and Kings have been involved in talks over the last month and therefore could become trade partners prior to the trade deadline. Nonis will scout other teams as well as the Monarchs this weekend. Cheap Jordan From China . -- Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Sidney Rice tweeted an apparent goodbye after a report about his pending release. Air Jordan Outlet . For Sweed, a second round pick of the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2008, this will be his second go around in the CFL after previously having spent time with the Saskatchewan Roughriders. https://www.wholesalejordanshoeschina.com/. Tony Parker had 33 points and nine assists and San Antonio never trailed in a resounding 116-92 victory over Portland, bullying the younger Trail Blazers in Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals. Discount Air Jordan .com) - The Kansas City Chiefs activated linebacker Joe Mays from short-term injured reserve on Saturday. Wholesale Air Jordan . Traditional contenders Brazil, Greece and Turkey drew the other three spots to complete the 24-team field for this summers tournament in Spain, basketball governing body FIBA announced Saturday at its meeting in Barcelona.BALTIMORE - J.J. Hardy signed a $40 million, three-year contract with the Orioles on Thursday night, the eve of Baltimores first appearance in the AL Championship Series since 1997.The contract, which comes with an option for 2018, goes into effect after his current deal expires at the end of this season.Executive vice-president Dan Duquette figured there was no time like the present to lock up a two-time Gold Glove winner at a key infield position.Why not now, really? Duquette said. When we looked at the market, we thought the best chance to sign J.J. was before he went to free agency because hes distinguished himself as one of the top shortstops in the league. And J.J. let us know that he wanted to continue his career here in Baltimore.Hardy has been a fixture at shortstop for the Orioles since 2011, playing solid defence and providing decent hitting in a lineup filled with sluggers.Although he hit only nine homers this season, Hardy totalled 77 long balls over the previous three years and won Gold Gloves in 2012 and 2013.Free agency was temppting, but in the end Hardy wanted to stay with the Orioles.ddddddddddddIt crossed my mind, but at the same time this is where I wanted to be, he said. Theres a lot of uncertainty in free agency. You dont know whats going to happen. I knew that I liked it here and I liked playing with all my teammates. Bottom line, it comes down to winning and I think weve got a good thing here.The 32-year-old Hardy batted .268 with 52 RBIs in 141 games during the regular season, then went 3 for 10 in Baltimores three-game sweep of Detroit in the AL Division Series.In the field, he ranked second among AL shortstops with 99 double plays turned, was third in fielding percentage (.978) and assists (394), and fifth in putouts (187).Hardy is a two-time All-Star, in 2007 with Milwaukee and last year as a member of the Orioles.I hope J.J. ends his career here, Orioles manager Buck Showalter said. It makes us a better club, obviously. Hes been solid. You never take for granted what J.J. brings.___AP Sports Writer Ronald Blum contributed to this report. ' ' '
Toronto Maple Leafs legend and Hockey Hall of Famer Mats Sundin joined TSN Radio 1050s Jim Tatti and Jeff ONeill on Friday to give his thoughts on the Olympic hockey tournament ahead of Sundays gold medal match-up between his native Sweden and Canada. While there is a lot that Sundin has liked in the tournament so far, the performance that Russia put forth against Finland in the quarterfinals left a bad taste in his mouth. "I was almost disgusted by their performance when they played Finland," said the 43-year-old who played 18 seasons in the NHL. "I look at the Finnish team and theyre missing key players. They dont have any of their big stars and now [Rask] is hurt and that Russian team is stacked with great players and to come out and have that performance they had in the quarterfinals. It was an absolutely heartless performance. "It was very disappointing and I dont think its very good for hockey either to have them out of their home tournament. You wonder when you have Putin in the stands on home ice and you cant get heart out of these guys? Whats going to bring it out? I dont know," he said. Sundin believes simply chalking up Russias crashing out of the tournament to the tremendous pressure the team was under is a bit of a cop-out. "Even though youre nervous or you have a lot of pressure built up, you can always still get into the motions and show that youre actually trying," said the former first-overall pick by the Quebec Nordiques in the 1989 NHL Entry Draft. "We didnt see anything of that in the quarterfinal." The captain of the gold medal-winning Swedish team in the 2006 Olympics in Torino, Sundin believes that its impossible to compare trying to capture a Stanley Cup to winning Olympic gold. "You cant even compare it to me," said Sundin. "I mean, the Stanley Cup is the biggest thing you can win playing for a club team in the world. Its over a [full] season and you try to get that, but saying that, international hockey and the Olympic Games go to a little bit of a higher level. You have all the absolute best players in the world competing. Its a short tournament, but its the absolute best, biggest thing you can win as a hockey player today where you face every countrys best players on the ice. And also, for any athlete, women or men, winning an Olympic medal is a little bit beyond just the sport of hockey, as well. You cant compare them, but obviously, you want to be part of both for sure." Sundin thinks that an unfamiliarity with the larger ice surface is one of the main reasons why Canadas offence has yet to really click in Sochi, despite the team being undefeated. "The last time the Olympics were around, the tournament was held on a smaller ice surface, an edge to the North American teams, no doubt," said Sundin. "The US and Canada were more comfortable. You look at the tournament right now, you can tell [Canada] is not as comfortable on the big ice surface...with the bigger ice surface, it becomes a little bit of a different game." The all-time Leafs leader in points acknowledges that an adjustment needs to be made for North American teams playing on the big international ice. "Just one big difference is when you come into an end, whether its your own end or youre in the offensive zone, youre further away from your opponent," explained the nine-time NHL All-Star. "Theres a little bit more room for a forward to slip away or get out of the way, out of position, so when that happens, and I think a North American feels that, you get a little more tentative and if youre tentative in hockey or you wait a little bit, then youre a step behind. I think thats the biggest thing." With NHL participation up in the air for the 2018 Olympic Games to be held in Pyeongchang, South Korea, Sundin believes it would be a mistake for the league to stop sending its best to the tournament as its a perfect opportunity to put a spotlight on the sport. "For me, its a no-brainer," said Sundin. "I think youve got to look at the broader picture. For the game of hockey, and if you want the game to continue to grow, theres no better window than the Olympic Games, where you can get new fans watching our great game, people from different parts of the world. I dont really see a reason why not. I know it affects the game short term. Some guys get hurt (and) when they get back they might not perform as well. But if you look at a long term picture, I think its just too big of a window to promote our sport to not be part of it." As for Sundays clash between his home country and the country he spent 18 years playing in, Sundin gives the edge to Canada. "Theres no doubt that the Swedish team...are not where you would think to call them a gold medal favourite at this point [without] Henrik Sedin and Henrik Zetterberg, two of the best centremen we have playing right now," said Sundin. "For them to get to the finals here, to get by Finland...Ill hold Canada as the favourites to win the gold medal, but if you have [Henrik] Lundqvist playing an enormous game in the final, theres a shot. But its a long shot for sure." Balenciaga Wholesale . His fellow Finn, 21 years his junior, had just arrived in Anaheim and was hoping to stick with the Ducks. Cheap Balenciaga Shoes Online . It was my fifth straight year attending and, as always, there are many interesting matters discussed as it pertains to the use of statistics in sports. http://www.outletsneakersclearance.com/fake-adidas-nmd.html. The international synchronized skating competition takes place from January 31 - February 1, 2014, and features 39 teams from 10 countries, in senior, junior, and novice. Adidas Nmd Outlet . The Montreal Alouettes announced Tuesday that they have acquired the return specialist from Calgary, as well as the Stampeders fifth-round draft pick in the 2014 CFL Canadian Draft. Fake Air Max 97 For Sale . By then it was clear: The 76ers were going to win for the first time in two months, and they were going to do it with ease. The 76ers snapped their NBA record-tying, 26-game losing streak, routing the Detroit Pistons 123-98 on Saturday night to avoid establishing the longest skid in U. TORONTO -- Kyle Lowry scored on an awkward, lurching 31-foot buzzer-beater just before halftime Wednesday, a circus shot that left him sprawled, grinning on his stomach on the Air Canada Centre floor. The Raptors very nearly spoiled what was the point guards finest performance -- in a playoff series full of them -- while holding on for a 115-113 victory over the Brooklyn Nets. Lowry poured in 36 points in the victory that gave the Raptors a 3-2 lead in their best-of-seven playoff series. "He is great, he did a great job," Raptors coach Dwane Casey said. "But this game tonight, we have got to learn from it because there are so many learning experiences from tonights game. Having the lead, (handling) prosperity, embracing the pressure. "Kyle. . . 36 points is huge. Huge for us." DeMar DeRozan added 23 points, while Jonas Valanciunas finished with 16 and Greivis Vasquez added 15. Amir Johnson chipped in with 11 points for the Raptors who gave up a 26-point lead in the fourth quarter, making for some tense moments at the ACC, but held on for the victory. When asked to describe the emotions of a fourth quarter that saw the Nets score 44 points, Casey answered: "You wouldnt want to hear it." The series heads back to Brooklyns Barclays Center for Game 6 on Friday, and a victory there would send them to a second-round series against the Miami Heat. A Game 7, if necessary, would be Sunday in Toronto. The Raptors controlled the game through the second and third quarters, when it seemed they could do no wrong, and led by 26 points twice late in the third. They headed into the fourth up 91-69 and appeared poised to cruise to an easy victory, but the Nets had plenty of fight left, tying the game at 101 on a three-pointer by Joe Johnson with 3:16 to go, stunning the crowd. Lowry drained the go-ahead three and then scored on a driving hook shot to put Toronto up by three points with 27 seconds left. A three and foul shot by Anderson pulled the Nets to within a point, but Andray Blatche -- with Lowry running right at him -- turned the ball over on a backcourt violation sealing the Raptors victory. "Hes a helluva player," DeRozan said of Lowry. "Its just that dog in him. . . Every time hes out there on the court, understand, Im going to give my best effort, because I know hes going to do the same." Lowry, playing with his right knee in a protective sleeve after injuring it in Game 3 in Brooklyn, has been solid all series, but took it to another level Wednesday, providing all kinds of highlight-reel plays. There was the diving three at the halftime buzzer. There was the 85-foot outlet pass that found an unmarked Terrence Ross under the basket. But the point guard was particularly big down the stretch, taking charges and slicing through the Nets defence for tough buckets. "When we needed a big shot, No. 7 came through. Kyle was unbelievable," said Raptors forward Chuck Hayes. "Theres nothing more you can say. Hes doing it at the right time on the biggest stage. "We need an answer, we call Kyle. Kyle will figure it out." It was the kind of game the Raptors would have coughed up down the stretch last season, and Casey said the team does take something from holding on for a win.dddddddddddd "But we cant live that way. Our history has been pretty good in the fourth quarter, but tonight, for whatever reason, they flipped the switch and flipped the script," the coach said. Joe Johnson led the Nets with 30 points, while Mirza Teletovic added 17, and Deron Williams and Alan Anderson finished with 13 apiece. The teams split the first two games in Toronto, and did the same in Games 3 and 4 in Brooklyn. A Game 7, if necessary, would be Sunday in Toronto. "One game at a time and we have to take care of home," said Pierce. "I think we will play better on Friday at home and we will see them back here on Sunday." The capacity ACC crowd of 20,393 that included Drake and rapper 50 Cent -- who dipped his head when the camera was on him to show fans his "Northern Uprising" hat -- was loud all game long, from the moment the fans sang along to O Canada to the final buzzer. The arena was a sea of white, as fans wore their white "We The North" T-shirts. They mocked the Nets by chanting "Broo-klyn!" the traditional chant at the Barclays Center. The Nets even took note, posting on the teams official Twitter account: ".Nets fans take note- this is what a playoff crowd sounds like..set your DVD and take notes .RAPTORSvNETS." Despite the rain and chilly temperatures, some 4,500 fans jammed into Maple Leaf Square outside the ACC to watch the game on the big screen. They were given rain ponchos. Some 1,200 fans were also given black and gold OVO/Raptors lint-rollers, a nod to Drake using a lint-roller while sitting courtside during Game 2. An array of Toronto sports celebrities took the stage, including Toronto FCs Jermain Defoe, Michael Bradley and Julio Cesar, and former Raptors Morris Peterson and Jerome Williams. "Ive never seen support like this. This is special," Defoe said in an on-stage interview. Cesar, wearing a No. 7 Raptors jersey, yelled "Lets go Raptors!" This series has been spirited from Day 1 when Raptors GM Masai Ujiri took the stage and dropped his famous F-bomb about Brooklyn. An enterprising man outside the ACC on Wednesday was selling F--- Brooklyn buttons, three for $5. Fans were wearing the same on T-shirts at the game. Johnson led the way with nine points for Toronto in a first quarter that saw neither team lead by more than six. The Raptors ended the quarter with a 10-2 run capped by a Lowry three-pointer that put Toronto up 28-25 going into the second. The Raptors trailed by four points with just over five minutes to go in the second, but finished the quarter on a 26-4 run capped by Lowrys three, part of a 13-point performance in the quarter for the point guard. The Raptors went into the locker-room at halftime buoyed by a 62-44 lead. The third quarter has been the Raptors nemesis in this series, but not so on Wednesday. They didnt take their foot off the pedal, shooting 58 per cent to twice go ahead by 26 points. Toronto went into the fourth with a 91-69 lead. ' ' '
CLEVELAND -- Brian Hoyer threw the game-clinching touchdown pass, turned and sprinted up the field as more than 70,000 fans roared. It was the same way he used to do it in his backyard as a boy, pretending to lead his beloved Browns to victory. On Sunday, he became a hometown hero for real. Hoyer, the local kid who grew up dreaming of one day being Clevelands quarterback, threw two touchdown passes in his first start at home to lead the revived Browns to a 17-6 win over the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday. Hoyer tossed a 1-yard TD pass to Chris Ogbonnaya with 4:54 left to give the Browns (2-2) an 11-point lead before Cleveland turned it over to its vastly improved defence to put the Bengals (2-2) away. Before the ball even dropped into Ogbonnayas hands, Hoyer took off running toward Clevelands helmet logo at the 50-yard-line with his index finger extended in the air. Once he neared mid-field, Hoyer stopped and pumped his fist in celebration as he did years ago after throwing a TD while playing with his brother and friends behind his familys home in North Olmsted, Ohio. "Its awesome," Hoyer. "Its cool to play in front of the hometown crowd in this stadium, where I grew up 15 minutes away from and obviously its a good day because the Tribe is winning, too." Not long after the Browns knocked off one of their division rivals, the Indians clinched a playoff spot for the first time since 2007. Suddenly, Clevelands beleaguered sports teams are winning. In his second start in place of injured Brandon Weeden, Hoyer finished 25 of 38 for 269 yards and no interceptions. He threw a 2-yard TD pass in the first half to tight end Jordan Cameron, who had 10 catches for 91 yards. But for the second week in a row, he came through in the clutch. Last week, Hoyer threw a 7-yard TD pass to Cameron with 51 seconds left as the Browns rallied to stun the Minnesota Vikings. "Certainly hes been the spark that I had hoped for and has led us to two games -- winning two games," said first-year coach Rob Chudzinski, who also spent his childhood pulling for the Browns. The Bengals (2-2) couldnt get anything going on offence and quarterback Andy Dalton was intercepted by Buster Skrine with 3:43 left, ending any chance of a Cincinnati comeback. Cleveland limited the Bengals to 63 yards rushing and cornerback Joe Haden contained wide receiver A.J. Green. "We didnt make enough plays," said Dalton, who finished 23 of 42 for 206 yards. "I didnt play well enough. I expect better out of the offence. To not score a touchdown, weve got too good of players and too good of a team not to do that. We have all the ability in the world on this team and we didnt get it done." Hoyer began the season as Clevelands No. 3 quarterback. But after Weeden sprained his right thumb, Chudzinski tabbed Hoyer as his starter. Last week, Hoyer threw three touchdowns and three picks in the win at Minnesota. And although Weeden began throwing this week, hes not well enough to play. Now, he could be relegated to watching Hoyer for the rest of the season. Chudzinski would not commit to Hoyer starting on Thursday against Buffalo, but it would be stunning for there to be any other choice. "Im still going to go through the same process," Chudzinski said. "Were going to go in and evaluate the tape. I thought he (Hoyer) did a great job, particularly managing some of the things early. I think guys settled in, he settled in, made some great decisions and throws and made big plays." Clinging to a 10-6 lead, Hoyer drove the Browns 91 yards in 12 plays for the clinching score. Hoyer showed gorgeous touch on a 31-yard pass to Cameron to put the Browns at the Cincinnati 24. Willis McGahee, who promised a "dramatic" improvement in Clevelands running game this week, carried three times to the 1 and Hoyer took it from there, throwing his TD to Ogbonnaya. Even before Ogbonnaya crossed the goal line, Hoyer was overcome with emotion. "I was just telling Obie, by the time you caught it, I was at the 40," Hoyer said, smiling. "Its just good because you know youre capping off that long drive with a touchdown and thats what you need to win games." The Bengals were out of rhythm from the start on both sides of the ball. Cincinnati was missing two starters in its secondary -- cornerback Leon Hall and safety Reggie Nelson -- because of injury and the Bengals offence sputtered for all 60 minutes. Mike Nugents two field goals were all the Bengals could muster against Clevelands swarming defence. Green had seven catches for 51 mostly meaningless yards as Haden blanketed him all afternoon. It was a discouraging loss for the Bengals, who overcame four turnovers last week to beat Green Bay and wasted a chance to take early control in the AFC North. "It wasnt lack of effort," Bengals coach Marvin Lewis said. "Today we didnt play well enough to win. Its part of what weve got to do. Weve got to keep growing and win." NOTES: Hoyer is the first Browns quarterback to win his first two starts since Mark Rypien in 1994. ... Pro Bowl LT Joe Thomas made his 100th straight start, extending his consecutive snaps streak to 6,125, the NFLs longest active streak. Thomas has not missed an offensive play since he was drafted third overall in 2007. ... Browns K Billy Cundiff made a 51-yarder after missing from 37 and 49. He missed most of the week with a quadriceps injury. ... Camerons 30 receptions through four games are the most for a tight end in Browns history. ... Browns rookie LB Barkevious Mingo started in place of injured Jabaal Sheard and recorded his third sack in three games. Air Max 97 Plus France .Y. -- The Detroit Red Wings had just enough time to salvage a point. Fausse Air Max 97 Plus . -- Conor Casey scored two goals, his first of the season, as the Philadelphia Union beat Chivas USA 3-0 on Saturday night. http://www.outletairmaxpascher.fr/fausse-air-max-plus.html. - Tom Brady and the Patriots routed the Bengals and quieted the doubters. Air Max 97 Off White Blanche Pas Cher . - The Raiders have released guard Mike Brisiel after two disappointing seasons in Oakland. Air Max 270 Pas Cher Livraison Rapide .com) - Eric Fehrs goal 42 seconds into overtime lifted the Washington Capitals to a 5-4 come-from-behind victory over Columbus, halting the Blue Jackets seven-game win streak. NEW ORLEANS -- Tyreke Evans hit the final shot. Jrue Holiday made every big play before that to put the New Orleans Pelicans in position to win. Evans sank a mid-range, pull-up jumper with 1.2 seconds left, and Holiday scored 15 of his season-high 31 points in the fourth quarter as the Pelicans beat the Portland Trail Blazers 110-108 on Monday night. Holiday, acquired in a draft-night trade with Philadelphia last June, connected on seven shots in the fourth when the score was tied or New Orleans led by two or fewer points. He also tied his season high for assists with 13. "I was just being aggressive," he said. "They were backing off on the screen-and-roll where I had the guard behind him, and I had a lot of confidence in my shot. I just felt good and it came at a good time." Evans big basket came right after Portlands Damian Lillard, who has hit several game-winners this season, made a contested 3-pointer to tie the score at 108. New Orleans, which won its fourth in a row at home, never trailed in the second half but never led by more than five in the final 10 minutes. Anthony Davis added 27 points, 12 rebounds and five blocks. Evans had 20 points, getting his first eight baskets in the lane before making his first jump shot at the end. The opportunity came after Holiday pushed the ball up the court instead of calling a timeout when Lillards 3-pointer rolled in with 10.9 seconds left. "It really kind of gets them off guard," Holiday said. "Sometimes when they celebrate like that, well go right back down in 2 or 3 seconds. Thats definitely big for us." Davis then forced LaMarcus Aldridge into a tough shot from the baseline that bounced off the top of the backboard and came after the buzzer anyway. "I thought they were going to try to give him the ball and hit a jump shot," Davis said. "I just tried to play good defence on him and put my hands up and make him shoot real high." Lillard scored 29 points and Aldridge had 28 for Portland (24-7), which lost its second straight. "Its a lot of stuff," Lillard said. "This was just a game that we couldnt pull out our best abilities. We just need to learn from this game and use it in a way to win our next one." Holiday answered every Portland challenge down the stretch. When thhe Blazers scored the first seven points of the fourth to tie the score at 89, he sank a 3-pointer.ddddddddddddHoliday then hit an outside shot and a buzzer-beating driving bank to keep the Pelicans ahead 98-95. After Nicolas Batum missed a free throw that would have given Portland its first lead since 33-32 in the second quarter, Holiday sank a floater to make the score 100-98. After Aldridge missed an outside shot with the score tied at 100, Holiday sank one from just beyond the free throw line. "He was excellent in the fourth quarter," Evans said. "He was in control. Thats what hes here for." The Blazers, who have struggled defensively lately, allowed the Pelicans to hit 53.9 per cent of their shots. Portland entered having allowed an average of 111.8 points in its last four games. "There are a lot of causes," Blazers coach Terry Stotts said. "Its penetration, its not helping out one another, its transition." The Pelicans limited the Blazers to 44.3 per cent shooting, and Davis was a major factor. He blocked two fallaway attempts from Aldridge before stifling him on the final shot. The Pelicans dominated the first half statistically -- shooting 52.2 per cent to the Blazers 38.3 per cent and outrebounding them 28-19 -- so New Orleans 56-49 lead at the break felt as though it should have been larger. New Orleans outrebounded the Blazers 18-8 in the first quarter, had a 10-0 advantage in second-chance points and held Lillard to one basket. The Pelicans also committed only one turnover, yet were up only 26-21. That advantage disappeared quickly when Dorell Wright and Lillard sank consecutive 3-pointers to put Portland ahead 33-32 early in the second, but Evans scored six in a row to start a 12-0 New Orleans run. NOTES: Pelicans guard Eric Gordon missed his third consecutive game with a bruised right hip. ... Pelicans centre Jason Smith sat out with a left shoulder injury. He had missed three games with a bruised right knee before returning against Houston on Saturday. ... New Orleans Saints coach Sean Payton sat courtside a day after his team clinched its fourth NFL playoff berth in the last five years. ... The Pelicans Ryan Anderson had made at least one 3-pointer in all 20 games he played in this season and 26 in a row dating to last season. ' ' '
ST. LOUIS -- Rookie Tavon Austin has missed another day of practice, lessening the odds hell be ready for the St. Louis Rams season finale at Seattle. The eighth overall pick of the draft has missed the last two games. Earlier in the week, coach Jeff Fisher said Austin was improved. Rookie safety T.J. McDonald also did not practice Thursday because of illness, and running back Daryl Richardson (hamstring) was out after being limited Wednesday. Defensive end Chris Long (thigh) was a full participant after being held out Wednesday Wholesale Nike Shoes Clearance . Toronto (11-12) gave up leads in 10-8 and 11-4 losses to the Baltimore Orioles this week. It was never close Friday as the Boston Red Sox got to Mark Buehrle early en route to an 8-1 win. China Wholesale Nike Air Max 90 . The mood in Seattle was electrified as the parade featuring the NFL champions began near the Space Needle and made its way to CenturyLink Field, the home of the team. At a ceremony inside the stadium, the team thanked its loyal followers -- the 12th Man -- capping a day of boisterous celebration that drew an estimated 700,000 revelers to Seattle. http://www.wholesalenikeshoesclearance.c...ames-shoes.html. -- Packers cornerback Tramon Williams has been fined $26,250 for contact with an official, per NFL guidelines. Replica Air Max 270 . Louis Blues are reportedly taking restricted free agent forward Vladimir Sobotka to arbitration. Cheap Nike Shoes Near Me . Stepanek gave the Czech Republic its second straight Davis Cup title Sunday, sweeping past Dusan Lajovic in straight sets in the fifth and decisive match to secure a 3-2 win over Serbia in the final.Arlington, TX (SportsNetwork.com) - A chant of Zeke reverberated around AT&T Stadium before Ezekiel Elliott powered into the end zone for his fourth and final touchdown. The Ohio State Buckeyes are back on top. They can thank the inaugural College Football Playoff for that. Elliott ran for 246 yards, totaling over 200 for a third straight game, and Ohio State won its first national championship since 2002 with a 42-20 victory over Oregon in the CFP National Championship Game on Monday night. The Buckeyes snuck into the final four of the CFP committees final rankings on Dec. 7 after not being included in any oof their previous unveilings.dddddddddddd Their vaulting into the No. 4 spot came a day after Elliott gained 220 yards and two scores in Ohio States 59-0 shutout win over Wisconsin in the Big Ten title game. The Buckeyes then went out and silenced their critics in the Sugar Bowl when Elliott ran for 230 yards and two more touchdowns in their 42-35 win over top- seeded Alabama. Elliott then put the final stamp on the stunning title run Monday night. After the Ducks pulled within a point in the third quarter, Elliott ran for a trio of scores to lift Ohio State to its sixth national championship. ' ' '
College Park, MD (SportsNetwork.com) - J.T. Barrett threw four touchdown passes and ran for a score, as 20th-ranked Ohio State spoiled Marylands first home game in the Big Ten with a 52-24 victory on Saturday at Byrd Stadium. Barrett completed 18-of-23 passes for 267 yards and ran for 71 yards on 16 carries for the Buckeyes (4-1, 1-0 Big Ten), who played their conference opener and have now won 17 consecutive regular-season Big Ten games. Ezekiel Elliott added 139 yards on the ground for Ohio State, which racked up 269 rushing yards. The Buckeyes have won three straight in convincing fashion, cracking the 50-point barrier in each game, since a stunning 35-21 home loss to Virginia Tech in early September. Caleb Rowe threw for 173 yards with a touchdown and three interceptions for Maryland (4-2, 1-1), which won its Big Ten opener last week at Indiana. Rowe played the second half for the Terrapins after starter C.J. Brown threw for just 71 yards with an interception in the opening 30 minutes. Ken Schinkel Jersey . Adding playoff teams. Monitoring instant replay from league headquarters. Possibly creating a set of guidelines to prevent locker-room bullying. Chris Kunitz Jersey .com) - The game was all punts and field goals before Kodi Whitfields catch. https://www.cheappenguinsjersey.com/1101...nguins.html.com) - NFL owners have unanimously approved the sale of the Buffalo Bills. Orest Kindrachuk Jersey . "Yeah, [I heard them]," he said. "They made me miss the free throw." A year ago, Lowrys post-game antics may not have been so well received but what was snide and snarky is now endearing quick wit. Joe Mullen Jersey . Pominville scored in all three of Minnesotas games last week to help the Wild (8-4-3, 19 points) earn four out of a possible six points. His best performance was in a 4-3 win over Montreal on Friday, where he posted a season-high three points (two goals, one assist), including the game-winning goal.KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia -- Top-seeded Kei Nishikori of Japan beat Rajeev Ram of the United States 6-2, 6-3 to reach the quarterfinals of the Malaysian Open on Wednesday. Ram beat Nishikori on grass two years ago, but Nishikori has struck a rich vein of form. In his first match since reaching the final of the U.S. Open, he broke Ram four times to set up a quarterfinal clash with Marinko Matosevic of Australia, who beat Go Soeda of Japan 7-6 (5), 6-4. Fifth-seeded Pablo Cuevas of Uruguay rallied from a set down to pass Ivan Dodig of Croatia, 3-6, 7-5, 7-5.dddddddddddd Cuevas will next face fourth-seeded Julien Benneteau of France, who beat wild card Filip Krajinovic of Serbia 6-4, 6-3. Defending champion Joao Sousa of Portugal was eliminated in the first round by Benjamin Becker of Germany 7-6 (1), 6-2, and Michal Przysiezny of Poland fired 19 aces in winning his opener against Malek Jaziri of Tunisia, 4-6, 6-4, 6-2. ' ' '
Alan Hutton has withdrawn from the Scotland squad for the World Cup Qualifiers against Lithuania and Slovakia. The Scottish Football Association confirmed on its Twitter account that the Aston Villa right-back was out of the squad. WATCH NOW TV Watch Sky Sports for just ￡6.99. No contract Hutton, 31, played 90 minutes of Villas Championship defeat by Preston on Saturday, his first appearance since August 10. No replacement has been named yet. The withdrawal leaves Callum Paterson as the only regular right-back in the squad. The Hearts player started in Scotlands opening World Cup qualifying victory over Malta. Michael O’Neill & Neil McCann join David Tanner to preview the upcoming World Cup qualifiers for Scotland and Northern Ireland. You can watch Englands tour of Bangladesh, plus Premier League football and the Japan Grand Prix on Sky Sports. Upgrade now and enjoy three months at half price! 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The announcement was made at the world mens curling championship at Capital Indoor Stadium in China.FORT WORTH, Texas -- Vaughan, Ont., native Andrew Wiggins wasnt around a year ago for one of the worst nights in Kansas basketball history. The freshman guard heard stories from coach Bill Self, and took it upon himself to squash any TCU hopes of a repeat. Wiggins scored 19 of his career-high 27 points in the first half and No. 8 Kansas answered last years stunning loss by taking control early in a 91-69 victory over the Horned Frogs on Saturday night. "He let everyone know that they beat us last year so we had to come out with a lot of energy, come with aggression," Wiggins said. "I think we were concentrating and we played with a high level of energy." The Jayhawks (15-4, 6-0 Big 12) won their sixth straight game and remained the only Big 12 team without a league loss. Kansas didnt get to extend its run of wins in four straight games against ranked opponents, the first team to do that since North Carolina in 1996-97. In their visit to Fort Worth last year, the Jayhawks became the first top-five team to lose to the Horned Frogs in a 62-55 defeat. This time, Kansas had 53 points at halftime and led by as many as 24 in the first half. "It was better, a lot better," said Self, who joked a year ago that it was "the worst team that Kansas ever put on the floor, since Dr. Naismith was there" after the Jayhawks scored 13 points in the first half. Brandon Parrish scored 15 points to lead TCU (9-10, 0-7). The Horned Frogs are the only conference team without a league win and are 2-23 in their two Big 12 seasons. TCU coach Trent Johnson simply saw what he called a "really good" Kansas team, not one fired up to make amends for the shocker of a season ago. "Why would they get all fired up about what?" Johnson said. "You talk about Kansas basketball and were just trying to make this team relevant. We havent been to the post-season since the dinosaurs. So I dont think they get all worked up over something like that." Joel Embiid had 14 points, six rebounds and three blocked shots for Kansas before fouling out for the fourth time this seasonn.dddddddddddd Wayne Selden Jr. scored 12, and Perry Ellis had eight points and 14 rebounds. TCUs student section flashed last years score in huge block numbers before the opening tip in case the Jayhawks had forgotten, but Wiggins was hardly fazed. The top-scoring freshman in the Big 12 made his first three shots and had a pair of 3-pointers and an alley-oop dunk from Selden in the first half. Wiggins topped his previous career best of 25 points against Florida on Dec. 10 and led Kansas with five assists. "He can defer a little bit and he can kind of get lost, but he never got lost today," Self said. "He was able to put his handprint all over the possessions and create opportunities for himself and others. I thought he played the way he should play every game." Wiggins also made it easier for the Jayhawks to exploit their size advantage inside. Jamari Traylor and Embiid had back-to-back dunks to put the Jayhawks up 14-6, surpassing their halftime total of 13 points from last year just 4 1/2 minutes into the game. Kansas, which shot a season-low 30 per cent in last years loss, was at 62 per cent in the first half, which ended with the Jayhawks in front by 21. The Jayhawks shot 57 per cent for the game. Conner Frankamp and Wiggins hit consecutive 3-pointers to finish a 13-2 run that put Kansas up 43-22. Embiid, a 7-footer from Cameroon, showed some versatility, beating Amric Fields with a strong spin move for a layup shortly before getting a steal, dribbling the length of the floor and getting fouled driving for a layup. He made both free throws for Kansas biggest first-half lead at 51-27. "Hes a good player," said TCU freshman centre Karviar Shepherd, who had eight points and fouled out trying to stay with Embiid. "We attacked each other on the offensive end and the defensive end. I got in some foul trouble early and he got the best of me." Fields had 13 points and seven rebounds for the Horned Frogs, who shot 56 per cent in the second half to keep the game from getting completely out of hand. Kyan Anderson added 12 points and eight assists. ' ' '
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - There was a moment of silence before Game 6 of the World Series to honour Cardinals outfielder Oscar Taveras, who died in an automobile accident over the weekend in the Dominican Republic.The 22-year-old Taveras, who made his big league debut this season, was buried earlier Tuesday in a funeral attended by Cardinals manager Mike Matheny and general manager John Mozeliak.One of the games top prospects, Taveras hit .239 with three homes in 80 games for St. Louis.Officials are still investigating the cause of Sundays accident on a highway in the popular tourist region of Puerto Plata. Taverass 18-year-old girlfriend, Edilia Arvelo, was also killed. Air Jordan 1 High OG Obsidian Womens . Jurrjens signed a minor league contract with Cincinnati in May, and was 2-3 with a 4.46 ERA at Triple-A Louisville. He has a 53-37 record with a 3.63 ERA in seven major league seasons, including five with Atlanta. Cheap Jordan 1 Chicago . Thornton emerged as one of the leagues best defensive ends against the run in 2013. The former undrafted free agent from Division II Southern Arkansas led Philadelphias linemen with 78 tackles and had one sack. http://www.bestfakejordan1.com/cheap-jor...-outlet.html.TV Series: Duck Dynasty. Jordan 1 High China .com) - Carmelo Anthony tallied 31 points to help the New York Knicks continue their improved play of late with a 100-92 victory over a short-handed Oklahoma City Thunder squad. Air Jordan 1 Mid Yellow Toe Black Mens . The San Antonio Spurs handled the conditions, and the team, and it sure helped when a suffering LeBron James couldnt make it to the finish.Bernie Ecclestone has indicated that F1 will not return to France unless an adequate replacement for the unpopular Magny-Cours circuit is found. Despite producing a plethora of drivers in recent years, including Romain Grosjean, Jules Bianchi and Jean-Eric Vergne, France hasn’t hosted a race since 2008.Magny-Cours replaced the Paul Ricard circuit as the home of the French GP in 1991. While the track itself received mixed reviews, the venue’s rural location – “slap bang in the middle of nowhere,” according to former Red Bull driver Mark Webber – proved a turn-off for supporters and protagonists alike. F1 briefly returned to Magny-Cours in September 2012 for a three-day Young Driver Test but as the sport contemplates new adventures across the globe a return to a remote outpost isn’t on Ecclestone’s agenda.“There isn’t a good circuit in France,” the F1 supremo told Sky Sports F1. “We left France because it didn’t work for anyone. France could get support to hold a race but where it is, nobody is excited by it.” Brendon Hartley drives the Mercedes W03 during the Young Driver Test at Magny-Cours in 2012 F1 will make a return to Mexico after a 20-year hiatus later this season while for 2016 includes a brand-new destination in the shape of Baku in Azerbaijan.But Ecclestone’s ambition to make F1 a global sport in location as well as reach remains undimmed.“I’d like to get a race in South Africa,” he confirmed. “There are other places in America – I am disappointed we didn’t get the New Jersey race but maybe we will.dddddddddddd I think it will happen.”The much-trumpeted New Jersey event, which would have showcased the iconic New York skyline as its backdrop, was first due to be held in 2013 and was included on the provisional calendar for 2014 but floundered amid financial concerns.It has emerged in recent weeks that the under-threat Italian GP could alternate between Monza and Imola. Two years ago, a similar arrangement was touted for the French GP to return to the calendar on an alternate basis with the Belgian GP before authorities at the Spa circuit signed a three-year extension. Ted Kravitz conducts a wide-ranging interview with Bernie Ecclestone ' ' '
LONDON - Crystal Palace fired Neil Warnock after only four months in charge on Saturday, becoming the first English Premier League manager to lose his job this season.The 66-year-old Warnocks second spell in charge of Palace ended with the London club in the relegation zone after just one win in 12 Premier League matches.Palace said that Warnocks assistant, Keith Millen, will be in charge for Sundays game against Queens Park Rangers as caretaker manager.One of the most outspoken, colorful characters in English football, Warnock was hired on a two-year deal in August after Tony Pulis quit Palace just two days before the opening match.The club would like to put on record its thanks to Neil for all his hard work and energy over the past four months, Palace said on its website a day after a 3-1 loss to Southampton.Warnock was previously in charge at Palace between 2007 and 2010. His firing comes after the Premier League had reached the packed Christmas fixture program without a manager being dismissed for the first time since the 1995-96 season. Ronald Guzman Jersey . 25 against Miami. Hillis left Browns Stadium about two hours before kickoff, a decision that has led to speculation he was upset over ongoing negotiations with the club on a contract extension. Elvis Andrus Rangers Jersey . -- Slugger Jose Abreu, All-Star left-hander Chris Sale and closer Matt Lindstrom are on the disabled list. https://www.cheaprangersbaseball.com/219...angers.html.com Tours season-opening Colombia Championship on Sunday, breaking the course record with an 8-under 63 in the completion of the third round before rain washed out play. Josh Hamilton Jersey . Jeff Green and Jordan Crawford each scored 19 points, Bass added 15 points and had a game-saving block in the closing seconds Saturday, and the Celtics held on for a 103-100 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers. Joey Gallo Jersey . -- Desperate to stop Tom Bradys latest comeback bid, the Miami Dolphins sought help from a reserve safety making his NFL debut after being signed Tuesday off the San Francisco 49ers practice squad.This Easter, Pugh dropped bizarre yet wonderful Rockies tribute piece with this somewhat terrifying bunny holding a Rockies Easter egg. The next entry to the weird yet amazing hairdo catalogue is this San Antonio Spurs homage that this fan got shaved into his head that features the Spurs big three. The artistry is impressive in that one, not like this one that just features a (focused?) Manu Ginobli. You think you love Johnny Football? This fan may love him more (in a relationship Im sure may contain restraining orders), as he got Manziels face, along with his popular nickname AND Texas A & Ms symbol shaved into his hair. This time the design looks eerie and if I was Manziel I would avoid interacting with this fan. I didnt think Mike Napoli, at least when he played for Texas, had this kind of fandom, but nothing should surprise me iin the bizarre sports haircut world.dddddddddddd This fan got a cross eyed illuminating Napoli shaved into the back of his head, because who wouldnt? Everybody.File this one under strange and slightly racist. This fan decided to get Robert Griffin III shaved into his head, and if I was him, I wouldnt leave my house until my hair grew back. This one is an example of what happens when a tribute goes horribly wrong. The Jordan logo isnt bad, but something tells me the fan wasnt paying tribute to Elgin Baylor (who wore famously number 22). Quite possibly the best one of the bunch is this Miami Heat tribute. Not only does the thing look like somebody cracked an egg on this poor guys head and tried to illustrate the big three, but its just flat out awful. The stars on top, the fact it looks like its dripping, its disgusting. ' ' '
TORONTO - Coming off his teams most impressive early-season outing and preparing for the lowly 76ers, Raptors reserve Lou Williams stressed the importance of approaching both games the same way. He was pretty convincing and nearly got through the cliche unscathed before succumbing to a last-second Freudian slip. That was one of the things that we spoke about in our meeting this morning, Williams said ahead of Sundays game. That even though theyre 0-6 theyve been in every game. Theyve played some tough teams very closely and we expect another effort from them [tonight]. So were going to come in and take them serious, like an NBA team. Looks can be deceiving but, amazingly, the Philadelphia 76ers are in fact an NBA team. Per Williamss pre-game assertion and to the Raptors credit, they showed their winless visitors no mercy. I thought we were very professional and took a very professional approach, Dwane Casey said following his teams rout of the 76ers in a 120-88 victory. Those guys are a young team and I knew they were going to come out and play hard, and they did that in the first few minutes of the game. Our guys played the way we should play. Facing a cast of characters that even the staunchest hoops head would have difficulty picking out of a line-up, Toronto took the lead less than two minutes into Sundays contest and never relinquished. DeMar DeRozan was the first to identity and exploit a glaring mismatch, welcoming JaKarr Sampson - an un-drafted rookie - to the league, attacking him to the tune of seven points in three minutes. By the end of the opening quarter, they had scored 33 points, two days after dropping 28 on the Wizards, shooting 69 per cent - a percentage that didnt drop below 60 until early in the third frame. Lowrys third-quarter put-back stretched the lead over 20 for the first time and DeRozans nifty 360 lay-up, on the subsequent possession, padded it to 23. That advantage would become 41 in the fourth. Weve been in a lot of games where weve had big leads and lost them, said DeRozan, who scored a game-high 24 points on just 12 shots in 25 minutes of action. Weve been stressing being able to put our foot on peoples necks when we gain the lead and not give them any hope. We didnt let up at any point. We didnt give them no hope and thats how we have to play when we gain leads. Despite Philadelphias clumsy start and all the talk of taking them seriously, this had the makings of a let-down game for the Raptors, feeling good about themselves after acing their biggest early-season test on Friday. Even Casey feared it before the game. For a player to look across and not see a Hall-of-Famer or whatever, its kind of hard for them to see and understand that guys probably trying to audition for 29 other teams and trying to prove himself against you, said the Raptors coach. Thats probably a challenge. But, with a national audience watching on NBA TV, they looked the part of a team that now stands alone atop the Eastern Conference standings (for the first time - after seven games - in franchise history). Its great for the fans, Casey said of his teams standing in the East. Its great for the players to see that, but its not the most important thing right now. Our most important thing is developing a consistent personality. Sundays convincing win was another step in that process. On the other end of the spectrum, the 76ers - dead last in the East - are playing out this season in the hopes of, one day, being able to say the same. With an average age just over 23-years-old, Philadelphia is the youngest team in the league. Only three of their active players have more than 84 games of NBA experience under their belt. In contrast, the Raptors - who are not exactly a veteran club - dressed 13 players on Sunday, each of them having appeared in at least 148 contests. Brett Brown, a former assistant and Gregg Popovich disciple in San Antonio, may be the calmest 0-7 coach in history (though he did pick up one of the quickest technical fouls in recent memory, two minutes into the game). Why panic? Everythings going according to plan. Philadelphia owns the rights to four players selected in the top 12 of the last two drafts. None of them suited up in Toronto - Nerlens Noel (sixth pick in 2013, out - ankle injury), Michael Carter-Williams (11th in 2013 and last seasons Rookie of the Year, out - shoulder injury), Joel Embiid (third in 2014, likely out for the season - foot injury), Dario Saric (12th in 2014, playing in Turkish League). Theyre biding their time. Its a challenge that I really enjoy, said a surprisingly chipper Brown before his teams latest loss. The job that I have now is so different than where I came from because you have a bunch of 20-year-olds that have spent a year, maybe two years in college. I love coaching them, they play hard and I respect their work ethic. I respect their day-to-day energy and I try to convince them that it will pay off, it will add up, you are doing this for a reason. I dont want them to get beaten down by the win and loss column. Not too long ago, Casey and the Raptors were in a similar situation. When Casey took over ahead of the lockout-shortened 2011-12 campaign, he inherited an inexperienced group, one that former general manager Bryan Colangelo has since admitted was designed to be bad. Only DeRozan and Johnson remain from that team. I was in the same position as a lot of them guys that are over there now, DeRozan said. I know what it takes to really start from scratch, how tough it really is. As long as you stay with it, keep working, slowly but surely itll turn around. Youve got to respect it because you have to start from somewhere. The 76ers may not have a single player from Sundays line-up around when theyre long-term plan finally starts to take shape. Casey, like Brown, used to speak of the process, preaching patience both in and outside of the locker room. He would point to the Spurs and the Pacers, using them as benchmarks. This is what were building towards, he would say. Now, the Raptors are the big brother. Brown can only hope to emulate their path and, like Casey, still be around when it begins to pay off. Personally, I have a lot of respect for the way theyve grown the program, Brown said of the Raptors. They showed Coach Casey some respect with a well-deserved contract extension and now theyve built something. Coming off last year, they feel good about themselves. You can actually see the growth of the program. So, on many levels, you look at that, given what were trying to do, there are parts of what I just said that you hope to duplicate. I mean its tough to establish a culture, Casey said, sympathizing with the position Brown finds himself in. To go from a winning culture to rebuilding is very difficult because your mindset is, each and every night out, you have an opportunity to win, whereas, when you are rebuilding with a young team, you are motivating them to go hard each and every night, to play physical, to play tough and it might not result in a W...and then to be resilent to come back from that the next night. Thats hard to do with a young team, to keep those spirits up and have them to be able to see the big picture. Cheap Nike Air Max Outlet . Dr. James Andrews is to operate next week on the 24-year-old pitcher, who made the AL All-Star team last year. Moore will be the first Rays pitcher to undergo Tommy John surgery since Jason Isringhausen in June 2009. Discount Nike Air Max Wholesale . After a first half in which he thought "the lid was on the basket," the Toronto Raptors coach watched his squad mount a second half surge to defeat the Cleveland Cavaliers 98-91. https://www.wholesalenikeairmaxshoes.com/cheap-air-max-270/. City has reached new heights under manager Manuel Pellegrini as they transition from big spending/immediate impact to perennial contender. Yaya Toures seeming discontent Tuesday may complicate that, as does the little issue of Financial Fair Play. Fake Nike Air Max Replica .Y. - Through three quarters, the Brooklyn Nets could not shake the NBAs worst team. Wholesale Nike Air Max From China . Patton told The Baltimore Sun that he took an Adderall pill four days before the season finished, trying to improve his short-term focus. "I took one because I was stupid," Patton told The Sun.NEW YORK – It was the second of two from Tyler Bozak and an overtime marker that saved the Leafs from complete disaster in the Big Apple, a three-game losing streak emphatically put to bed. Generally speaking, it was more of the same from a one-line wrecking machine which has carried the Leafs offensively all season, but especially since the calendar turned to 2014. Torontos top line of Bozak, Phil Kessel and James van Riemsdyk has now combined for 35 goals in the new year or 10 more than the rest of the forwards combined in that span and a staggering 49 per cent of the teams total offence. Secondary scoring from the likes of Joffrey Lupul, Nazem Kadri and Mason Raymond has been spotty. Kadri snapped a six-game skid with his 16th of the year against the Rangers, depositing a Nik Kulemin rebound beyond the grasp of Henrik Lundqvist. Two days earlier, Raymond scored the lone goal in a 2-1 loss to Columbus, then the third-straight for the Leafs. Such contributions, though, have been the exception rather than the norm in recent months with the top unit terrorizing opponents nightly. Kessel is on pace for 90 points and trails only Sidney Crosby in the scoring race. van Riemsdyk has smashed almost every previous career-high, already boasting 26 goals and 52 points. And Bozak, the most maligned first-line centre in the league, has managed 37 points in 40 games this season, including 23 in the past 23 games. "I think at the start of the year, we thought one of our strengths would probably be our balanced attack," Lupul told the Leaf Report before Wednesdays 3-2 overtime victory, "and it hasnt really been that for a number of different reasons, injury probably the first one you look to." Dave Bolland has missed almost the entire year, David Clarkson has offered little offensively and Kulemin only shows hints here and there of the offensive prowess that scored 30 goals only three seasons ago. Its been the second unit though, cemented by Kadri and Lupul, thats just been off somewhat, rarely running in concert with the Kessel-led trio. "We havent really had that game," said Lupul, "the breakout game where you score two or three or four goals." Though he remains on pace for a still respectable 24 goals and 48 points, the 30-year-old has just four goals in the past 19 games. He had a terrific chance to beat Lundqvist on a backhand rebound attempt in the second, only to be stymied by the right pad. His emergence down the stretch alongside Kadri would certainly stand to benefit the Leafs attack. "For me, usually thats what I look at is scoring chances because eventually theyll go in for me," said Lupul, who has felt better physically since the Olympic stoppage, the extended layoff offering opportunity to heal some nagging concerns. "Ive played long enough that I can self-evaluate and at the end of the game I know when I played a good game or a bad game for the most part. Right now, Im happy with my game to a point. Sometimes youve got to find a way to put the puck in the back of the net, especially when your teams down by one. But I feel good right now and I feel like were on the verge of having one of those games where we break out and score three or four goals." Lupul also stressed his belief that the eventual return of Bolland, who missed his 49th-straight game Wednesday, will aid in attempts for greater balance. "Obviously, theres a little bit of excitement to finally play a game where we have everyone and see how the team looks with Bozak, Kadri, Bolland, McClement and then all of our wingers," said Lupul. "Thats an exciting prospect for us to finally suit up that full lineup. And I think youll see, once we do that, the balanced attack will come a little bit. I mean, having Bolland centring your third line it makes a big difference." Goal-scoring has never been an issue for the Leafs this season. They remain one of the leagues highest-scoring teams, almost entirely because of the top lines dominance (and a productive, until recently, power play). But if that trio slows even a little down the stretch – shooting percentages tend fluctuate – and beyond that in the playoffs, the lack of balance could emerge as a real concern. Five Points 1. Messy Third Periods For the third time in four games after the Olympic break the Leafs dropped a third period lead, blowing a 2-0 deficit in stunning fashion against the Rangers. Dealt an opportunity to bury the home side early in the final frame with Brad Richards hauled off for tripping, Toronto managed to yield a pair of shorthanded goals in just over a minute. Giveaways by Cody Franson and then Kessel allowed Ryan McDonagh and Dominic Moore to strike and reignite a seemingly dead Madison Square Garden crowd. "Thats just unacceptable from our power-play group," said Kadri afterward. "We know that." It was, rather incredibly, the second time in less than a week that the club had allowed two shorthanded goals on the same power play. More concerning though was another evaporated third period lead. The Leafs carried such leads in Long Island and Montreal in recent days, only to fumble them away and eventually lose in overtime. Valuable points were lost in the process. Because they ended up taking the second point anyway in overtime – still handing one to New York – the Leafs jumped the idle Lightning for third in the Atlantic Division. "Weve got to look at it as two points that are huge right now," said head coach Randy Carlyle. "It ddoesnt feel so good right now because youre frustrated with the way it went, but tomorrow in the standings, itll show two points and then you move on.dddddddddddd" 2. Bollands Cloudy Status Lupul compared Bollands looming addition (more on that below) to a trade. "It was almost the same for me last year. I had the broken arm and came back and was able to add a little spark to the team," said Lupul, who had 18 points in 13 games upon return from the injury last spring. "I would expect Bolland to kind of do the same thing. It doesnt necessarily have to be with goals or assists, but just what he brings on a night to night basis. Weve certainly missed it. Youre putting in a guy with playoff experience; that is kind of the exact thing that you look to add at the trade deadline." Bollands return from a severed left ankle tendon has taken longer than expected and remains cloudy at best. He described the rehab process himself recently as a "slow mountain climb," one that has seen him out of the lineup since Nov. 2. The 27-year-old neared a return last week but suffered a setback and has since visited with a specialist in Carolina, who advised that the process continue moving forward. Uncertainty remains on when exactly hell be back with just 18 games remaining. 3. Trade Deadline Comes and Goes Quietly The Leafs ultimately remained quiet at Wednesdays trade deadline. Not yet a Cup contender in need of just a piece or two to get over the top, but not a bottom dweller selling assets either (as they were in years past) Nonis and his management team decided just to stand pat. "I think its easy to try to get caught up in what might be an exciting move, what may help you for a couple weeks," Nonis told reporters in Toronto. "Its easy to get caught up in that. [But] I dont think its a prudent way of approaching this day. At least, not until we have more assets to give. When you can give up first-round picks or you can give up top young players and not feel it, then youre ready to make those deals." Nonis made clear that their side was primarily interested in hockey deals at the deadline with rentals not aligning with the teams current state (theyre not ready to win). Selling pending UFAs (Raymond, Kulemin and McClement) additionally for minimal assets also didnt make much sense as theyd damage the team in the interim without yielding much in the way of worthwhile return. In the upswing from where theyve been as an organization in the past, the Leafs are, nonetheless, kind of in the middle at the moment. Good, but not great. A playoff team not quite worthy of Cup contention. And thus, remaining quiet rather than chasing an unrealistic dream was probably most logical. 4. Trade Deadline II As they ambled off the ice at MSG on Wednesday morning, Bozak and Raymond poked fun at the trade deadline frenzy. "Neuf to the Flyers," Raymond chirped. "Is it done?" Bozak responded, "I heard its a done deal." Dion Phaneuf had been absent from the morning skate, taking the morning off for maintenance. Such is the hysteria associated with the annual deadline and why its typically a nervous day for most players. "I dont think theres been a time where Ive been super nervous," Franson said before the 3pm deadline was to expire. "For a guy in my situation, I dont have a no-trade clause or anything like that, so whatever happens its going to happen and theres nothing I can do about it. Youre always kind of on the edge of your seat just to see if your name pops up on the ticker or whatever. Your life can change in a second. Thats always a little nerve-wracking. As far as really stressing about it, its not in your hands." 5. Trade Deadline III Carlyle recalled a messier trade deadline following Wednesdays game. While an assistant coach in Washington during the 2003-2004 season, he watched in horror as the Capitals shipped out the likes of Jaromir Jagr, Peter Bondra, Robert Lang, Sergei Gonchar and Michael Nylander in the lead-up to the Mar. 9 deadline. "And that wasnt a lot of fun," he said. Among the rewards in those trades were Tomas Fleischmann, Brooks Laich, Mike Green and a team that was bad enough to snatch the first overall selection in the 04 draft, one that yielded Alex Ovechkin. Stats-Pack 49 – Percentage of offence in 2014 from the top line of Phil Kessel, James van Riemsdyk and Tyler Bozak. 35-25 – Combined goals for Kessel, van Riemsdyk and Bozak in the New Year versus those from the rest of the Toronto forwards in that same span. 1-1-1 – Leafs record versus the Rangers this season. 0-15 – Toronto power-play over the past seven games. 23 – Points in the past 23 games for Bozak, who scored his 13th and 14th goals of the year against the Rangers. 2 – Number of times in the past four games that the Leafs have allowed two shorthanded goals in the same two-minute power-play. 10 – Shorthanded goals scored against the Leafs this season, tied for most in the league. Special Teams Capsule PP: 0-2Season: 21% (6th) PK: 1-1Season: 77.7% (28th) Quote of the Night "Gray. Bald. Old. All of the above." -Randy Carlyle on the effect of games like Wednesday, which saw his team blow a 2-0 lead on the power-play. Quote of the Night II "Work on our power-play I guess." -Jonathan Bernier, on how to better protect third period leads. Up Next The Leafs host the Flyers at home on Saturday before hitting the road for a challenging five-game road trip. ' ' '
Danny Manning grew up watching Wake Forest play games at the Greensboro Coliseum, memories that linger in his mind all these years later. He never thought one day hed coach the Demon Deacons. Manning, the former Kansas star who spent the past two seasons coaching Tulsa, was hired Friday as Wake Forests basketball coach. Hell be introduced at a news conference next week on campus in Winston-Salem, N.C., a short drive from where Manning grew up. "I spent a lot of my formative childhood years in North Carolina," Manning told The Associated Press on Friday at AT&T Stadium, the site of this weekends Final Four. "I spent the majority of my life in Kansas," Manning said, "but this was a chance to be a part of a university that I share the same values and history with." His hiring ends Wake Forests two-week search for a replacement for Jeff Bzdelik, who resigned under intense public pressure following four mostly unremarkable seasons. Manning, who was 38-29 with two post-season berths in two seasons at Tulsa, interviewed this week and toured the campus in Winston-Salem on Wednesday before taking the job two days later. His hiring is considered somewhat risky because of his lack of head coaching experience, but theres no question he brings instant name recognition to a program that dropped to near the bottom of the expanded Atlantic Coast Conference. "There have been very few players who have had as much success on the court as Danny," Wake Forest athletic director Ron Wellman said in a statement. "He has played for and worked under a number of legendary coaches and he has been successful in his coaching career. We fully expect that Dannys coaching career will reflect the excellence of his playing career." Manning attended Greensboro Page High School before his family moved to Lawrence, Kan., for his senior year, and when it was time to choose a college, he picked Kansas over North Carolina. After his "Danny and the Miracles" team won the national title in Kansas City, not far from the Jayhawks campus, Manning was drafted first overall by the Los Angeles Clippers in 1988. He made two All-Star teams during a career marred by injuries before joining coach Bill Selfs staff at Kansas in 2003. Responsible primarily for working with post players, Manning was promoted to assistant coach in 2006 and two years ago earned his first head coaching job at Tulsa. Self called Manning "one of the most accomplished, humble people youll ever meet." The 47-year-old Manning took the Golden Hurricane to the CBI in his first year and followed that by guiding them to the Conference USA tournament title and their first NCAA tournament berth since 2003. They earned a No. 13 seed and lost to UCLA in their tournament opener. Tulsa forward Rashad Smith said he found out about Mannings move through teammates and media reports, though he said the coach texted him shortly thereafter. Guard James Woodard said it was "kind of shocking. "You know in the back of your mind, the run we had this year, there would be a lot of opportunities out there," Woodard said. "Im happy for him." Wake Forest never came close to making the NCAA tournament under Bzdelik, who stepped down March 20. Bzdelik went 51-76 with a 17-51 record in ACC play, and won only two league road games. Eight players transferred out during his tenure, and the Demon Deacons have been one of the youngest programs in the country -- with only one fourth-year senior in each of the past two years. Barring any more transfers, Manning will inherit a team with eight players who are either juniors or redshirt juniors -- including promising big man Devin Thomas and tempo-setting guard Codi Miller-McIntyre. As details of Mannings hiring trickled across Twitter, Miller-McIntyre tweeted: "Finally its over! Time to get back to work." Manning called the Demon Deacons a "sleeping giant," one that he believes will be able to contend with Tobacco Road rivals Duke and North Carolina in the near future. "A few years back, they were ranked No. 1 in the country," Manning told AP. "Theyve had great players. Youre about Chris Paul, Tim Duncan, just to name a few, because theyve had quite a few. "Im looking forward to going there and being part of that great tradition." Boston Celtics Pro Shop . Wrights first stint with Milwaukee was on a 10-day contract from March 14-23. He played in two games, averaging six points and two rebounds in 16. Dana Barros Jersey . The stakes were higher, the competition more fierce and the atmosphere was that of a playoff game - something the young, upstart Raptors have five weeks to better prepare themselves for or the result will be eerily similar. https://www.cheapceltics.com/142n-bill-s...ey-celtics.html. It will then be back to business once the puck drops as the two clubs battle for key points in their respective playoff races. Watch the game live on TSN Canadiens and listen on TSN Radio 690 starting at 7:30pm et. Larry Bird Jersey . Off-Season Game Plan looks at a Wild team that has a nice mix of proven veterans along with young, inexpensive talent on the rise. When the Wild signed Zach Parise and Ryan Suter, making a big splash in the summer of 2012, it set the franchise on a path to being more competitive, but a big reason that they have been so competitive is the contributions of young players who still have more to give. Jaylen Brown Jersey . -- The Oakland Raiders expect to have starting right tackle Tony Pashos back for Sundays game against the Houston Texans.HOUSTON - Near the end of a seven-game road trip, there was some concern that the Los Angeles Clippers might be running out of gas.Turns out that there was no need to worry.Blake Griffin had 30 points and 10 rebounds and Jamal Crawford added 21 points to help the Clippers coast to a 102-85 win over the injury-depleted Houston Rockets on Friday night.The Rockets were playing their fifth straight game without Dwight Howard (knee strain) and were also missing two other starters.In the sixth game of a seven-game trip, the Clippers took the lead at the end of the first quarter and didnt trail again. Houston got within 10 points early in the third, but a run by Los Angeles pushed the lead to 18.Coach Doc Rivers was asked what a win like this tells him about his team, which has lost just once on this trip that ends Saturday in Utah.It tells you that their confidence is starting to grow, Rivers said. Ive always thought that when your team has confidence they have energy. They dont get tired. I thought thats what that was (Friday).The Clippers were focused on making things happen from the beginning of the game.I tried to be more aggressive early — getting to the lane, Griffin said. We just did a good job of moving the ball early. Even though they were banged up, I thought it was a good test for us.An alley-oop dunk by DeAndre Jordan made it 94-73 with about six minutes remaining and the starters went to the bench soon after that.James Harden had 16 points to lead Houston. He said they cant blame their injuries for this loss.Theyre a really good team and were down on numbers (but) thats no excuse, he said. We got stops but we just couldnt get a shot to fall.Its the third straight win for the Clippers and theyve won 10 of their last 11 over the Rockets.J.J. Redick added 15 points and Chris Paul had 10 points and seven assists for Los Angeles.Already playing without starting point guard Patrick Beverley, the Rockets lost Isaiah Canaan with a sprained left ankle in the second quarter and he didnt return. With both players out, HHouston had to rely on the 37-year-old Jason Terry for the rest of the game.ddddddddddddCanaan finished with 13 points and rookie Tarik Black, who was filling in for Howard, had 11 points and nine rebounds. Canaan was on crutches and wearing a boot on his left foot after the game and wont make the trip for Saturdays game at Milwaukee.The Clippers led by 10 early in the third quarter before using a 10-2 run to extend their advantage to 68-50. Paul and Redick both made 3-pointers in that span.Crawford scattered cheers from the home crowd when he sunk a long 3-pointer as he fell to the ground late in the third quarter. He was fouled on the play and hit the free throw to push L.A.s lead to 83-65. He had four 3-pointers.The Clippers scored the last seven points of the first quarter to take a 26-24 lead. They used a 9-1 run at the beginning of the second to push the lead to 37-25 about nine minutes before halftime. Houston used an 11-5 spurt, powered by three 3-pointers, after that to cut the lead to 42-36.Jordan had a two-handed dunk late in the second quarter before Terry was called for a flagrant 1 foul for hitting Griffin in the face on his way to the basket. He made both free throws to push Los Angeles to a 56-44 lead at halftime.TIP-INSClippers: Matt Barnes returned to the starting lineup after missing the last two games with a sore left calf. ... Guard Chris Douglas-Roberts remains out with a strained right Achilles.Rockets: F Terrence Jones missed his 12th straight game with nerve damage in his left leg. ... Beverley was out for a third consecutive game with a strained left hamstring.ON THE ROAD: When the Clippers get back to Los Angeles they will have travelled 7,231 miles during this seven-game road trip. That is the second-longest trip by distance that any team in the NBA will travel in a seven-game stretch this season.The road is hard, coach Doc Rivers said. Winning is hard. The fact that were doing it on the road is great.UP NEXTClippers: At Utah on Saturday.Rockets: At Milwaukee on Saturday. ' ' '
In other sports fashion related news, two people who go by the name of “Ben and Ken” have finally settled the age long debate on the correct pronunciation of Nike. All it took was a simple letter:(h/t redditThere was also some interesting news regarding new Tennesse Titans quarterback Charlie Whitehurst who has worn the number 6 for the past 12 years. Punter Brett Kern of the Titans has also worn the number 6 so the two settled who would dawn the number this season with a good old fashioned arm wrestle. Kern ended up winning the arm wrestle:(h/t For The Win) Cheap Balenciaga . Alen, 28, hit .315 with five home runs, 59 RBI and a career-high nine stolen bases for the Goldeyes last season. He is the longest serving catcher in Goldeyes history, having already spent five seasons with the organization. Fake Balenciaga Shoes . Its like being on Broadway, everything you do matters. Id want to be good though! I couldnt play here if I wasnt very good. #83217388 / gettyimages. https://www.fakebalenciaga.com/. -- The Chiefs have signed seven players to reserve/future contracts, including running back Joe McKnight, a former fourth-round pick of the New York Jets. Fake Balenciaga From China ., climbed from seventh to fifth spot in womens competition Sunday at the ISU world junior figure skating championships. Wholesale Balenciaga . Ending a nine-game losing streak? That gave the Milwaukee Bucks veteran forward a reason to smile.Liverpool, straight from their Europa League semi-final first-leg defeat against Villarreal, head to the Liberty Stadium on Sunday with the aim of securing European football for next season. They need to chase down West Ham in sixth to guarantee it and will be relying on the fine form of Daniel Sturridge, who has scored in six of his last seven Premier League appearances, including each of the last four.The 1-0 home victory over Chelsea nearly three weeks ago took Swansea to 40 points and seemingly a sixth straight season in the top flight. But back-to-back defeats at Newcastle and Leicester have left them with a bit of work still to do as Norwich and Sunderland could yet overhaul them and plunge them into the bottom three. Jurgen Klopp is impressed with Danny Ings as he nears his return to Liverpools first team Team news Alberto Paloschi is out with a hamstring injury Swansea are without striker Alberto Paloschi and midfielder Leroy Fer for Liverpools visit on Sunday.The pair have both picked up hamstring injuries and head coach Francesco Guidolin does not know if they will figure again this season.Jefferson Montero, Ki Sung-yueng and Bafetimbi Gomis are all vying for rare starts as Swansea seek to bounce back from successive away defeats at Newcastle and Leicester. Klopp issues Anfield warning Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp warns Villarreal about Anfield atmosphere after Europa League loss Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is likely to ring the changes for a game which kicks off 56 hours after they returned from their Europa League semi-final in Villarreal.Goalkeeper Danny Ward could get another start while striker Daniel Sturridge, an unused substitute in Spain, is set for a recall.Playmaker Philippe Coutinho should be recovered from the illness whichh forced him off at half-time on Thursday but is only likely to be on the bench.ddddddddddddpta statsThe Swans have kept six clean sheets in their last nine Premier League matches at the Liberty Stadium.Swansea didnt manage a single shot on target when they visited Anfield back in November, losing 1-0. James Milner scored from the spot for Liverpool against Swansea earlier this season The Swans have converted just 31 per cent of their clear-cut chances in the Premier League this season; a league-low.Gylfi Sigurdsson has scored the most goals (11), had the most shots on target (30) and created the most goalscoring chances (54) for Swansea in the Premier League this season.Swansea have won just one of their nine Barclays Premier League meetings with Liverpool (drawn three, lost five), losing the last four in a row. Jurgen Klopp will be looking for a response from his side against Swansea Daniel Sturridge has scored four goals in four Premier League starts for Liverpool against Swansea.Sturridge has scored in six of his last seven Premier League appearances (six goals), including each of the last four.Liverpool have scored 17 goals in their last six Premier League away games. Gylfi Sigurdsson celebrates scoring against Man Utd Liverpool have lost a league-high 19 points from winning positions in the Premier League this season.Mersons predictionsLiverpool dont need this game. Swansea were atrocious against Leicester last week and really Liverpol should win 5-0. Jurgen Klopp has a big game against Villarreal to prepare for and its bigger than this. Sigurdsson is dangerous from set pieces Swansea will have a go and Liverpool, whoever they put out, will have a go as well. Theyre not going to go there and bore everyone to death, theyll go out and enjoy themselves.Swansea have got Gylfi Sigurdsson who can put the ball on a sixpence and Liverpool arent exactly going to be working on their set-pieces so Ill also go Ashley Williams first goalscorer.Paul predicts: Swansea 2-2 LiverpoolBettingLiverpool will want to bounce back from their Europa League disappointment when they take on Swansea on Sunday and Sky Bet make the Reds the 5/4 favourites to get the win with Swansea 21/10 and the draw trading at 12/5. Sky Sports football pundit Phil Thompson has tipped Daniel Sturridge to score the first goal in a 2-0 win at odds of 28/1.Take a look at the odds and other tips from our pundits here. ' ' '
The 2014 NHL Draft is nearly three weeks away and TSN Scout Craig Button is sticking to his guns, for the most part, in his final list of the Top 100 draft eligible players. Sam Reinhart of the Kootenay Ice completes his sweep of Buttons rankings, finishing in the top spot for the seventh time. Aaron Ekblad, Sam Bennett, Leon Draisaitl and Michael Dal Colle round out an identical top five from the previous list. "Its my projection of where players will be in three to five years time as they progress and mature," explains Button. "There will never be agreement on any ranking of this type and it is never static or without debate. There is nothing final about the players as they will develop and progress into NHL players of varying skills and types." Ekblad is the outlier of an emerging trend in the Top 100. Of the top 10 ranked skaters, seven are forwards. If the list were to mirror the upcoming draft, only seven defencemen would be selected in the first round and 28 in the top 100 - with some of those blueliners spending time at forward. "Each draft has its own unique personality and must be treated as such," adds Button. "We get hyped as we anticipate the next potential superstar and while this draft may not have that hype, it has players who will be stars in their own right and will help their NHL teams compete for the Stanley Cup." A few surprises shook up the rankings with Calgary Hitmen defenceman Travis Sanheim making the leap from 32 down to No. 8. The 6-foot-3 standout was a plus-25 in 67 games for the Hitmen, who finished third in the WHLs Eastern Conference but fell in the opening round of the playoffs in six games. Centre Vladislav Kamenev also caught Buttons attention, slicing his ranking by more than half in a jump from the No. 25 spot to No. 12. The Russian junior league product played just 15 games this season but did manage 10 points and a plus-10 rating. The final ranking, however, was not so kind to some. After reaching a high of the No. 8 spot on the previous list, Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds centre Jared McCann nearly fell out of the top 20. Despite his 27 goals and 62 points in 64 games this season, McCann managed just one goal in March. "What history tells us is that this draft will be like all others, with players not achieving greatness and its steals, whereby the question inevitably becomes - how did they get him there?" said Button. "But make no mistake, the players have reached for their goal of playing in the NHL and all sacrifices are worth it because with no sacrifice, there is no reaching ones potential. That we can all agree on." For Craig Buttons final list click here. Jake Daubert Jersey .Y. - Urijah Faber walked out on a Madison Square Garden stage in a Wes Welker jersey, the UFCs fun nod to that other "super" show this weekend. Fred Norman Jersey . Its the second time this season that Milan has been sanctioned by the league judge, after fans also subjected Napoli supporters to discriminatory chants. The ban will come into effect for Milans next match, against Udinese on Oct. https://www.cheapredsjerseys.us/1405s-sa...rseya-reds.html. You can catch all of the action LIVE on TSN2 at 6pm et/3pm pt. The Heat reached that mark Saturday night when they ruined the Philadelphia 76ers home opener. Stitched Reds Jerseys . As they are wont to do, the Spurs made things real easy. The Spurs signed Parker to a multi-year contract extension on Friday, ensuring that the six-time All-Star point guard will be in the fold whether Duncan and Ginobili are able to continue their careers or not. R. J. Alaniz Jersey .Y. -- The New York Islanders were seeking a positive finish to a frustrating season on home ice.MONTREAL -- The Boston Bruins just couldnt bury their chances. On a night when Boston was looking close out the series, the Bruins made a hash of numerous opportunities in a 4-0 loss to the Montreal Canadiens in Game 6 on Monday night. The Bruins hit posts and crossbars, missed open nets, blew odd-man rushes and couldnt capitalize on key chances throughout the game. Most noteworthy was a frenetic 5:11 sequence of uninterrupted play in the second period during which the Bruins penned Montreal in its own zone for more than two minutes. With the Bruins down 1-0 early in the second period, and their power play expiring, Boston took advantage of tired Habs legs to play keepaway with Montreal in the offensive zone. The Bruins peppered the net with shots, but couldnt take advantage of the unrelenting pressure. "We were all around the net, getting a lot of chances. And then they scored that second one," said Bruins forward Patrice Bergeron. "It definitely took the momentum out of us. Its about finishing the job, and we have to be a lot better." On the sequence, Carl Soderberg took two shots on Carey Price, and had another two blocked by Canadiens defenceman Mike Weaver. Brad Marchand missed the net, Jarome Iginla was stopped by Price and Kevan Miller had a chance blocked by P.K. Subban. The Bruins took a total four shots on net, had three shots blocked and missed the net once. "If we capitalize on a chance there, its a different game," said Milan Lucic, who was also denied by Price on the sequence. "Were not frustrated with what happened here today because we established some pretty good zone time." Price made 26 saves for his fourth career post-season shutout. One of his best of the evening was on Lucic during Bostons dominant spell. Lucic was fed the puck across the crease, but Price made it back in time to rob the left-winger. "Bouncing puck, I overshot it," said Lucic. "It was one of those plays thaat you put in nine out of 10 times.dddddddddddd. Today was that one that you didnt get. You get the same opportunity next game, you have to make sure that you bury it." Minutes later, Max Pacioretty scored his second of the playoffs on a breakaway to double the Canadiens lead. Bruins goalie Tuukka Rask left his net to intercept a stretch pass by Nathan Beaulieu on the play, but changed his mind and retreated back between the posts. The moment of uncertainty was enough for Pacioretty to fire home a shot between Rasks pads. "I kind of hesitated," said Rask, who let in four goals on 28 shots. "I didnt want to get burned. Me and Zdeno (Chara) got caught looking at each other. I thought he was going to dive, and he thought I was going to play it. Just another gift." Thomas Vanek, whos particularly successful against the Bruins with 67 points in 61 career games, added a goal at the end of the second period and another at the end of the third. The Bruins have now failed to clinch a playoff series in Game 6 on the road for the fourth time in five seasons. Game 7 goes Wednesday night in Boston. "Its one game, winner moves on," said Lucic. "You know its not going to be easy. You fought all season-long to get the home ice advantage for situations like this. "Were confident. Weve been a confident group all year long. Weve played well in big games. This is the biggest one so far throughout the year. We have to bring our best when we need it the most. Thats the most important thing." Notes: The Canadiens are now 4-1 at the Bell Centre in these playoffs. Their only home loss was the 1-0 overtime defeat to the Bruins in Game 4. a The Canadiens are 5-3 all-time against the Bruins in the seventh game of a playoff series. a The Bruins made no changes to the lineup that beat Montreal 4-2 in Game 5 on Saturday. a The team that scores first has won every game in this series. The Habs are now 6-0 in the playoffs when scoring first. ' ' '
WINNIPEG -- His confidence took a beating last season but Winnipeg Jets goaltender Ondrej Pavelec says its time to turn the page, get his mojo back and strengthen his game for the upcoming season. "Its huge," Pavelec said of the importance of confidence to an NHL goalie. "When you have confidence you feel like the game is so slow and the puck is bigger. "When you dont feel confident, the puck is so small." Pavelec hit the ice for the first time Friday with the veterans and young prospects at the Jets camp. It opened at the clubs practice arena before a packed gathering. This is a critical season for the Jets as they look to show some progress. Its nothing new for Pavelec to hear that many hockey pundits consider it to be an important campaign for the 27-year-old Czech netminder as well. Pavelecs numbers were among the leagues worst last season. He allowed the most goals and was tied with former New Jersey Devil Martin Brodeur for the worst save percentage among players to appear in 39 games or more. But Jets coach Paul Maurice says the entire team must play better defensive hockey before anyone can fairly assess its netminder. Pavelec says he avoids reading newspapers and watching TV and wants put last season to rest. "Theres nothing really you can do about it right now," Pavelec said. "I tried to have a good summer, come here in good shape and start again. "I put everything behind me and now its a new start." Pavelec certainly looks leaner than he did in his last three seasons in Winnipeg although he wont say how much weight he has lost. The Jets finished 22nd in the NHL standings last season just over the .500 mark. A five-game losing streak after Christmas cost head coach Claude Noel his job. Things improved under Maurice but not enough to gain ground in the tough Central Division, where the Jets were moved to when the franchise relocated from Atlanta to Winnipeg. They finished last in the Central with 84 points. Captain Andrew Ladd says the Jets played through adversity last year and are ready to take their game to another level as they attempt to reach the playoffs for just the second time in franchise history. "I think that got everybody excited about the potential of what we can do when we play the right way," he said. "I feel that excitement coming into camp that we can take this to the next level." Many young prospects, like top draft pick Nik Ehlers, are trying to crack the roster this season. But at age 18, Ehlers knows he needs to add some muscle. "Im not the guy who goes in and gives big hits," said the speedy five-foot-11, 165-pound forward. "Ive never been that guy and Im not going to change that. "But I want to get in there and be physical to. Its the NHL and everybody has to be strong. Everybody has to be strong along the boards and I obviously try to get better at that. Well see what happens." Ehlers and other young players like defenceman Josh Morrissey and forward Adam Lowry wont have to wait long for some competition. The first exhibition game is Monday at home against the Minnesota Wild. Maurice wants to see if the young players are ready. "I have no aversion to youth playing," he said. "If a player can come in and play in a meaningful way then his age has nothing to do with it." But Maurice said if theyre not, they shouldnt be in the NHL, adding it will do neither the team nor the player any good to rush things. The 2014 Jets look pretty much like last years team, with the biggest changes being the addition of Mathieu Perreault and departure of Olli Jokinen. The centres had the same point totals last year, although Perreault played fewer games and is almost 10 years younger. Perreault is looking forward to getting time on Winnipegs power-play units, something that didnt happen with either the Anaheim Ducks or Washington Capitals. "Other than that, I think my role is going to be pretty similar, like third-line (or) second-line centre," he said. "If theres injuries I can always step up and play a bigger role." Royals Jerseys 2020 . -- The Chicago Bears say they have agreed to a one-year contract with centre Roberto Garza. Frank White Jersey . In his first game with Boston University, the 17-year-old Eichel picked up five assists as his Boston University Terriers thumped St. https://www.cheaproyals.com/1377a-danny-...sey-royals.html. The club was unable to retain hitting coach Kevin Seitzer, who is bound for Atlanta. Seitzer replaces Greg Walker, who was assisted by Scott Fletcher this season as the Braves finished 79-83. Nicky Lopez Jersey . Paire broke Giraldo twice and lost his serve once in both sets to wrap up the win in 1 hour, 10 minutes. He will next face Pablo Carreno Busta of Spain, who advanced when Jurgen Zopp of Estonia retired with an injury at 5-5 in the first set. Jesse Hahn Jersey . "I only want to go through this one more time," Crosby said Friday. The 24-year-old captain hasnt played since the symptoms resurfaced following a loss to Boston on Dec. 5. Doctors allowed him to return to full practice on Tuesday and while Crosby is pleased with the way his body is responding he refuses to put on his return.(SportsNetwork.com) - The Los Angeles Lakers started the 2012 season 0-3 and the third straight loss came at the hands of the rival Clippers. History could repeat itself when the Pacific foes renew their rivalry Friday night at Staples Center. The Lakers lost their season opener to Houston, 108-90, then were hammered in Phoenix by a 119-99 score Wednesday. Kobe Bryant, who scored 19 points in Tuesdays loss to the Rockets, put up 31 points on 11-of-25 shooting against the Suns. Bryant, of course, is coming back from an Achilles tear and knee injury. I told you guys from the beginning I am back to myself, Bryant said. Ed Davis and Wayne Ellington rounded out the double-digit scorers for Los Angeles with 14 and 13 points, respectively, off the bench. The Suns had six players in double figures, including two with 20 or more, and scored a 39-23 difference in the third quarter. Jeremy Lin has yet to score in double figures with seven and six points in his first two games with LA. Los Angeles is without rookie forward Julius Randle (leg) for the season and is 9-2 in the last 11 games on Halloween-night games. The team is 11-5 overall on the specific night. While the Lakers, who are the home team on Friday night, could finish near the bottom of the Western Conference, the Clippers are expected to be at the top. The Clippers got their season started off with a bang,, handing the Kevin Durant-less Oklahoma City Thunder a 93-90 defeat Thursday night.dddddddddddd Thunder guard Russell Westbrook is supposed to pick up the slack in Durants absence, but he suffered a broken hand early in the game. Still, Los Angeles had trouble with OKC and managed to prevail even though it shot 39.1 percent from the floor. Blake Griffin led the hosts with 23 points and seven rebounds, while Chris Paul posted 22 points and seven assists. LA was dreadful from 3-point territory, going 7-for-30 beyond the arc. The Clippers were even outrebounded, 47-33, but had 14 on the offensive end. Opening nights are tough. We won but we didnt play well, Clippers head coach Doc Rivers said. I didnt like our tempo. We have to play at a better pace. DeAndre Jordan grabbed 10 boards to go along with eight points. Jamal Crawford scored 16 points off the bench. This was the first regular season game for new Clippers owner and former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer, who purchased the team for a record $2 billion this offseason. The Clippers went 3-1 against the Lakers last season and won all four meetings in 2012-13. The Lakers are 10-3 in the last 13 games as the host in this series and lead the all-time rivalry, 144-56. Bryant is averaging 25.9 points in 64 career games (56 starts) against the Clippers. He has two 50-point games against them. ' ' '
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- Familiar inconsistencies. Different result. Matt Hendricks and the Edmonton Oilers proved they arent so bad that they cant beat the lowly Buffalo Sabres -- and on the road, no less. The newly acquired forward scored a short-handed goal 57 seconds into the third period, and the Oilers hung on for a 3-2 win in a matchup of the NHLs two worst teams Monday night. Bouncing back from a lethargic effort in a 4-0 loss at Boston on Saturday, the Oilers managed to eke out a win against the only team below them in the overall standings. Edmonton (19-33-6) won for the fourth time in five games and moved six points clear of the Sabres (15-32-8), who dropped to 4-8-4 in their past 16. "We didnt have a very good game in Boston. We let them kind of dictate the game for 60 minutes," Hendricks said. "Tonight, we didnt have our A game either, but we were able to get a road win." Justin Schultz and Jeff Petry also scored for Edmonton, and David Perron had two assists. Ilya Bryzgalov stopped 42 shots in helping Edmonton snap an 0-5-1 skid against the Sabres dating to a 4-1 win on Oct. 16, 2003. The Oilers, outshot 44-28, even had the good fortune of getting a break from the officials. Sabres forward Marcus Foligno had a potential tying goal waved off with 10:25 left when referee Gord Dwyer ruled the whistle had blown before the puck went in. Foligno drove in from left side and got a shot off that Bryzgalov appeared to glove. Foligno followed up by poking the puck in. Dwyer, parked at the left post, immediately waved it off and then confirmed the call following a video review. "It was a quick whistle. It was a tough break," Foligno said. "We could have had momentum after that shift with a goal." Drew Stafford and Steve Ott scored for the Sabres. Sabres backup goalie Jhonas Enroth stopped 25 shots, dropping to 1-11-5 this season and 0-9-4 in his past 13 starts. The Sabres came up empty in extending their home skid to 0-4-3 -- the teams longest since opening the season 0-8-1 in Buffalo. Buffalo gave up the first goal 32 seconds in, was unable to hold a 2-1 lead and then gave away the game while it was on the power play. With Ryan Nugent-Hopkins off for hooking, the Sabres turned the puck over inside the Oilers blue line. Edmonton forward Boyd Gordon got the puck and threaded a pass through the middle to hit Hendricks, who had sneaked in behind Buffalos defenders. Breaking in alone, Hendricks backed Enroth into the crease and lifted a shot inside the left post. "Great pass," Hendricks said. "I give him a lot of credit. It was a pretty play. Im sure I wouldve just dumped it in." Hendricks is a defensive-minded forward who was acquired by the Oilers in a trade with Nashville two weeks ago. Oilers coach Dallas Eakins is impressed with what Hendricks has provided on and off the ice. "Hes preaching all the stuff that we need here," Eakins said. "Hes been a good penalty-killer for us, but definitely a guy thats very vocal. I think a lot of our guys need to be listening to that because he certainly knows what hes talking about." Hendricks was happy to contribute with his second goal in nine games for Edmonton. "Your bread and butter is the defensive style of game, so any time you get an opportunity to add to the stat sheet, its a good feeling," Hendricks said. Bryzgalov then did the rest by stopping the final 31 shots he faced after Stafford beat him with a hard snap shot with 53 seconds left in the first period. One of Bryzgalovs better stops came in the final minute, when he got his glove out to top Alexander Sulzers shot from the right circle that went through a crowd. NOTES: Stafford returned after missing four games with an upper-body injury. To make room on their roster, the Sabres placed LW Matt Moulson (upper body) on injured reserve. ... The Oilers are 2-1 in their past three games despite being outshot by a combined 144-80. ... The Sabres became the last NHL team to reach 100 goals this season when Ott tied it at 1. By comparison, Buffalo has allowed a combined 110 goals in the first two periods. ... Sabres D Tyler Myers missed the third period after hurting his right leg in the second. Anthony Santander Jersey . Hes the same player he always was, only now his efforts are being rewarded. The rookie manager has made a habit of heaping praise on others when things are going well, and accepting criticism when they arent. But in the case of Hurtado, its what the coach is NOT saying that may be the secret to a superb run of form. Renato Nunez Jersey . -- The anointed starting quarterback for the Oakland Raiders is strengthening his hold on the position this training camp instead of losing it. https://www.cheaporioles.com/848i-cal-ri...ey-orioles.html. Sopoaga hit the upright with his first shot at goal from 15 metres. He then kicked nine goals in succession -- two conversions and seven penalties -- before being replaced in the 62nd minute, three points short of the Highlanders record for most points in a match. Cal Ripken Jr. Jersey . - Buffalo Bills running back C. Tippy Martinez Jersey . Terry came from Boston along with Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce but has appeared in just 35 games after a knee injury, averaging 4.5 points on 36 per cent shooting. Evans was a favourite of fans but not coach Jason Kidd, who used him in just 30 of their 51 games.CINCINNATI - Four minutes were left when Peyton Manning took the field to try to lead his 51st game-winning drive. Plenty of time for the Broncos to pull it out.One bad throw brought the playoffs into sharper focus.Dre Kirkpatrick returned an interception 30 yards for a touchdown with 2:41 to go, then picked off Manning again in the close seconds to secure a 37-28 victory on Monday night that put the Cincinnati Bengals back in the playoffs.Cincinnati (10-4-1) will play in Pittsburgh next Sunday night, with the winner getting the AFC North title. The loser gets a wild card. The Bengals will have one thing in their favour: Finally breaking out of their prime time funk.The Bengals got blown out in their two previous night games this season and were 18-41 all-time in prime time, including 10-20 on Monday nights. This one was particularly soothing.Until we had a win like this, people kept saying we couldnt win in prime time, said Andy Dalton, who is only 3-6 in prime time and 0-3 in the playoffs. So it was big for us to get this win. Regardless of what people were saying, this win meant more because it got us into the playoffs.The Broncos (11-4) were already there as AFC West champions. They could have clinched a first-round bye with a win on Monday. Instead, New England got home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. Denver can still clinch the No. 2 seed by beating Oakland at home.Its disappointing, said Manning, who threw a season-high four interceptions. We had an opportunity to win this game tonight. We would have preferred that. We have another opportunity next week.Some things learned at Paul Brown Stadium:ABOUT THOSE PLAYOFFS: Cincinnatis four straight playoff appearances are a franchise first. Cincinnati hasnt won a playoff game since the 1990 season, tied for the sixth-longest streak of futility in NFL history. Theyre 0-5 in the post-season since then, with all of the losses coming under coach Marvin Lewis.HILL IS SOME ROOKIE: Jeremy Hill ran for 147 yards against the NFLs second-ranked run defence, including an 85-yard touchdown for Cincinnatis first points.ddddddddddddHe became the 10th Bengals player to run for 1,000 in a season. According to STATS, Hill is the third rookie in NFL history to rush for 140 yards four times in a season, joining Eric Dickerson (1983) and Curtis Martin (1995).ANOTHER DALTON MISFIRE: Dalton threw too high to A.J. Green on Cincinnatis second series, resulting in an interception that Aqib Talib returned 33 yards for a touchdown. It was a reminder of Daltons penchant for being off-target in the big games. The Bengals made sure Dalton spent much of the game handing it off or throwing short passes — 14 of his 17 completions went to a tight end or running back.IMPERFECT PEYTON: Manning was 8-0 against Cincinnati coming into the game, throwing for 20 touchdowns with only five interceptions. He had nearly that many on Monday night, throwing a season-high four. The showing raised more questions about the quarterback, who missed much of practice last week with a strained right thigh.It wasnt good, said Manning, who was 28 of 44 for 311 yards with two touchdowns. With four interceptions, youre not going to beat many good football teams.NOTEWORTHY: Broncos safety T.J. Ward left in the fourth quarter with a neck injury. Hell be reevaluated in Denver. ... Green bruised his right biceps when he was hit on Talibs interception return. He was in and out of the lineup for the rest of the game and finished without a catch for only the second time in his career. ... Demaryius Thomas set a Broncos record with his ninth 100-yard receiving game. He also joined Marvin Harrison and Jerry Rice as the only players with three straight seasons of 1,400 yards receiving and 10 TD catches. ... The Bengals started Eric Winston at right tackle for the first time since they signed him on Dec. 2. Cincinnati rushed for 207 yards, averaging 5.6 yards per carry.___Online: AP NFL website: www.pro32.ap.org and www.twitter.com/AP_NFL ' ' '
TORONTO -- Calgary grabbed the most selections but the Toronto Argonauts Ricky Ray and Darian Durant of the Saskatchewan Roughriders were voted the top quarterbacks for the CFL East and West in 2013. Calgary grabbed a league-leading 10 spots on the western squad as the division all-star teams were announced Wednesday. Rays numbers were held back as he missed six games to injury and sat out the last game of the season. But he still finished with 234 completed passes out of 303 tries for a career high 77.2 per cent, tops among CFL starting quarterbacks. Durant finished the season with 4,154 passing yards and a league-leading 31 touchdown strikes. Saskatchewan and Montreal were tied with nine selections each. Toronto was next at eight, with Hamilton and B.C. at six each, Winnipeg at four and Edmonton at two. Representing the West at running back is Calgarys Jon Cornish, the CFL rushing leader, and Saskatchewans Kory Sheets, the runner-up. Hamiltons C.J. Gable and Winnipegs Will Ford share the honour in the East. Sheets and Cornish were both unanimous selections. Torontos Chad Owens was one of the four receivers named in the East and Edmontons Fred Stamps was a unanimous pick as one of the four in the West, after leading the league with 1,259 receiving yards. The others were Torontos Andre Durie, Hamiltons Bakari Grant, Montreals S.J. Green, Saskatchewans Weston Dressler and Chris Getzlaf and Calgarys Marquay McDaniel. The offensive lineman named for the East were Montreals Josh Bourke, Winnipegs Glenn January, Torontos Chris Van Zeyl and Jeff Keeping and Hamiltons Greg Wojt. For the West it was Calgarys Brett Jones, Jon Gott and Stanley Bryant, B.C.s Jovan Olafioye and Saskatchewans Brendon Labatte. For January, a seven-year CFL veteran who has made the East all-star squad three times now, the honour was bittersweet after the Bombers finished last at 3-15, tied for their worst record ever in the 18-game CFL. "It was an extremely difficult season for us and I think its been well documened that a lot of are frustrated that the season went the way it did," he said. "Its nice to have individual acknowledgment but I sure wish I was playing this weekend." Defensive players include CFL tackle leader Chip Cox from Montreal and runner-up Henoc Muamba from Winnipeg in the East, and sack-leader Charleston Hughes from Calgary and Saskatchewans Alex Hall in the West. Muamba said terrible season or not, the fact that four Bombers made the all-star list helps show that the team never gave up. "Its a testament to the fact that myself personally, I didnt quit, and for the rest of the all-stars. It goes to prove that there were a lot of guys in that room that never quit, despite the things that were going on and the season that we had." He also sounded a little more positive at the prospect of returning to the Bombers, although he said his agent is still in negotiations with the team. Six of Montreals all-star selections were on defence. Besides Cox, John Bowman, Geoff Tisdale, Jerald Brown, Billy Parker and Mike Edem were named. Torontos Khalif Mitchell and Patrick Watkins, Winnipegs Bryant Turner and Hamiltons Brandon Boudreaux complete the defence for the East. In the West it was Saskatchewans Tearrius George, Dwight Anderson and Tyron Brackenridge; B.C.s Adam Bighill, Solomon Elimimian, Cord Parks, Dante Marsh and Ryan Phillips; Calgarys Juwan Simpson and Edmontons Almondo Sewell. Calgary swept the special teams category in the West with league-leading kicker Rene Paredes, punter Rob Maver and the CFLs leader in combined return yards, Larry Taylor. Hamilton claimed two spots in the East for punter Josh Bartel and tackle-leader Marc Beswick, while Montreals Sean Whyte took kicker. The lists are voted on by coaches and members of the Football Reporters of Canada. The CFL will announce its all-star team, featuring players from both divisions, in early December. Wholesale Diamondbacks Jerseys . -- The Green Bay Packers have signed quarterback Graham Harrell to the active roster from the practice squad and placed tight end Andrew Quarless on injured reserve. Merrill Kelly Jersey . “The fact that he was willing to do the deal the way we wanted it to be done showed that he wanted me to be a part of something great," Lowry said, noting that Ujiri willingness to sign off on the proposal that both Lowry and his agent presented to the GM was the final straw that convinced him to return. https://www.cheapdiamondbacksjerseys.us/...amondbacks.html. - John Elways philosophy is to address immediate needs in free agency, even though some of his own veterans may prove too pricey to keep around. Archie Bradley Jersey . Wawrinka, who is seeded fourth, is in the top half of the draw with Serbian Novak Djokovic. The Swiss star outlasted Djokovic in a five-set quarterfinal thriller last year and stunned Spaniard Rafael Nadal in the final to capture his first-ever Grand Slam title. Custom Arizona Diamondbacks Jerseys . The Austrian ski federation said Morgenstern was "conscious and well responsive" and his condition would be monitored in the intensive care unit of a Salzburg hospital for the next 72 hours. The federation said it was "way too early" to judge Morgensterns chances of competing in Sochi, and that an update on his condition was not expected before Monday.Boston Bruins Forwards Jordan Caron and David Pastrnak have been recalled from the Providence Bruins (AHL). Pastrnack was the teams first round pick in the 2014 Draft and this is his first NHL recall from the club. - Team Release Brad Marchand skated at practice. Chris Kelly and David Krejci did not. Pastrnack and Marchand are game-time decisions. - Team Twitter Dallas Stars Ryan Garbutt (upper body) is practicing. - Mark Stepneski, Dallas Stars Edmonton Oilers The team announced that they have relieved goaltender coach Frederic Chabot of his duties and will be replaced by Dustin Schwartz. - Team Twitter Florida Panthers Brandon Pirri may be activated off injured reserve for tonights game against Minnesota. He suffered a concussion. - SunSentinel New York Islanders Jaroslav Halak will start in net tonight. - Team Twitter Minnesota Wild Niklas Backstrom will start in goal tonight. -- Michael Russo, Star Tribune Montreal Canadiens Defenseman Nathan Beaulieu and forward Drayson Bowman have been assigned to the Hamilton Bulldogs (AHL).dddddddddddd - Team Twitter Philadelphia Flyers Luke Schenn could be a healthy scratch for the Flyers. - CSNPhilly.com Toronto Maple Leafs Forward David Booth and defenceman Korbinian Holzer have been recalled from the Toronto Marlies (AHL). - Team Release Booth is expected to make his season debut for Toronto in Wednesdays game against Pittsburgh. He was sent down to the Marlies for a conditioning stint after breaking his foot in the preseason. Joffrey Lupul is likely to play as well, but still needs to be cleared. - Darren Dreger, TSN The team is expecting to hear more today about the extent of defenseman Roman Polaks injury. The teams main concern is MCL damage. Holzer will replace Polak in the line-up. - Darren Dreger, TSN ' ' '
NANCY, France -- France rallied from a 2-0 deficit to beat Germany 3-2 in the quarterfinals of the Davis Cup on Sunday. Jo-Wilfried Tsonga cruised past Tobias Kamke 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 to help France even the tie before Gael Monfils secured the winning point by defeating Peter Gojowczyk 6-1, 7-6 (0), 6-2. France improved to 8-2 against Germany and will next face the Czech Republic, which routed Japan 5-0. "This victory is logical and was expected, but we know nothing is logical in the Davis Cup," France captain Arnaud Clement told Sport Plus television. "We saw some courageous Germans who played their best tennis and even played above their usual level." Tsonga outslugged Kamke by making 45 winners to 19 for his opponent. The Frenchman jumped to a 3-0 lead in the first set and broke Kamke twice in the second. Tsonga slapped a forehand winner to break for a 2-1 lead in the last set before clinching the victory with an ace. In the fifth match, Monfils got off to a good start by winning the first five games. Gojowczyk saved two break points at 2-2 in the second set. However, Monfils fired three forehand winners and an ace in the tiebreaker to go two sets up. Gojowczyk dropped serve three times in the final set as Monfils capitalized on an unforced error from the German to convert his first match point. "Im very proud of their reaction after those two losses on Friday that really hurt us," Clement said. "They knew they had no room for error. Playing in such conditions is very tough. But they managed to react like men." On Friday, Kamke beat Julien Benneteau 7-6 (8), 6-3, 6-2, and Gojowczyk outlasted Tsonga 5-7, 7-6 (3), 3-6, 7-6 (8), 8-6 to give Germany a 2-0 lead. On Saturday, Michael Llodra and Benneteau defeated Kamke and Andre Begemann 6-1, 7-6 (5), 4-6, 7-5 to cut Germanys lead to 2-1. "We said it last year and we said it at the beginning of this year: our goal is to win the Davis Cup," Clement said. "Reaching the semis is not enough for this ambitious group." Germany stunned Spain 4-1 in the first round but missed its four best players for this tie: Tommy Haas, Philipp Kohlschreiber, Florian Mayer and Benjamin Becker. Cheap NFL Jerseys China . - Suspended Jacksonville Jaguars receiver Justin Blackmon has voluntarily checked into a treatment facility and seems to be doing well. Cheap Nike NFL Jerseys . First, Ivan Nova decided to have season-ending Tommy John elbow surgery. Then Michael Pineda was suspended for 10 games for using pine tar. https://www.cheapnfljerseysjustwholesale.com/. Sami Salo scored two goals as the Canucks overcame a hat-trick from Edmonton Oiler rookie sensation Ryan Nugent-Hopkins to win 4-3 in NHL action Saturday. Wholesale NFL Jerseys USA . -- The Val-dOr Foreurs made it to the Memorial Cup semifinal thanks to their workhorse goaltender and their ability to hang around like a bad cold. Cheap MLB Jerseys . -- Coyotes coach Dave Tippett thinks of one thing when he watches Eastern Conference teams struggle against Western opponents before they get to Phoenix: His team must keep pace.MOSCOW - Fifth-seeded Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova started her Kremlin Cup campaign with a win on Tuesday, beating 16-year-old Croatian Ana Konjuh 6-3, 6-4.Pavlyuchenkova, the world No. 30, will now meet either Alison Riske of the United States or fellow Russian Daria Kasatkina, a wild card entrant, in the second round.Its hard to start your first match at a tournament, especially at home, and you always want to play well, and I think it really wasnt bad, said Pavlyuchenkova, who admitted she hardly knew anything about Konjuh before the match.Palvyuchenkova is chasing her second WTA title of the year after winning the Open GDF Suez in Paris in February.She has played at the Kremlin Cup six times before, only progressing past the first round once, last year, when she lost in the semifinals to eventual winner Simona Halep.There was an upset as Frances Caroline Garcia, seeded eighth, lost 6-4 6-2 to Moscow-born Serbian Aleksandra Krunic, who is ranked 73 places below Garcia in 109th.It was difficult, she played really well, said Garcia, adding that Krunic is a tough player, shes moving very well and she has a good servve.ddddddddddddKrunics reward is a second-round meeting with Bulgarias Tsvetana Pironkova.Local favourite Elena Vesnina has struggled with injuries this season and didnt last long in front of her home crowd, losing her first-round match with Czech player Katerina Siniakova 6-2, 6-2.In the mens draw, last years losing finalist Mikhail Kukushkin started slowly against Russian youngster Karen Khachanov, but recovered to win 6-7(3), 6-0, 6-2.The Russian-born Kazakh player, ranked 74th in the world, now meets fourth-seeded Italian Fabio Fognini.U.S. Open champion Marin Cilic, seeded second, will face Evgeny Donskoy in the second round after the Russian wild card beat Israeli Dudi Sela 6-4, 6-0.Former world No. 10 Juan Monaco of Argentina also progressed, beating Italys Paolo Lorenzi 6-3, 5-7, 6-3. In the second round, he meets one of two Russians, either seventh-seeded Mikhail Youzhny or qualifier Viktor Baluda.The Kremlin Cup, now in its 25th year, is an ATP 250 tournament for the men with a prize fund of $855,490. For the women, it is a WTA Premier tournament offering $710,000 in total prize money. ' ' '
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