Sunday, December 24, 2006
Saturday, December 23, 2006
SIXERS NEWS
Sixers 98 Knicks 77
It Was Over When....
It started. As bad as the Sixers have been playing lately the Knicks were worse tonight, with 20 turnovers , and only 2 out of 13 shooting from beyond the arc, not good for a team that relies on its jump shooting. Thus, the Sixers basically dominated throughout leading by 9 after 1 quarter, 15 at the half, and 19 after 3 quarters.
The Game Ball Goes To....
Andre Iguodala with 20 points, Chris Webber, yes that Chris Webber, with 18 points and 9 rebounds, Samuel Dalembert with 11 points and 8 rebounds, new Sixer Andre Miller with 9 points and 11 assists off the bench mind you, and of course Kyle Korver with 16 points off the bench.
The Stat Of The Game Is....
29, as in 29 trips to the free throw line for the Sixers on the night, to just 11 for the Knicks. Generally getting to the free throw line early and often as the Sixers did tonight is a recipe for success, especially against a jump shooting team like the Knicks.
The Bottom Line Is....
It seems as if Santa Claus payed the Sixers a visit sometime prior to last night's game and told them that if they could just end their losing streak he would deliver to them a healthy Chris Webber, and a new veteran point guard in Andre Miller, and you know something he kept his word and as a result they're not half bad right now, with wins on back to back nights. In fact, albeit incredibly, with the win tonight the Sixers are now just 4.5 games out of first place in the woeful Atlantic division. I and all those other diehard Sixers fans out there can only hope they can keep it going.
FLYERS NEWS
Senators 6 Flyers 3
It Was Over When....
Senator's star winger Daniel Alfredsson stepped on the ice. Alfredsson has struggled for most of this season, but today he looked like his oldself again scoring two goals and an assist including the go ahead tally with about 8:00 minutes to play in the 3rd period
The Game Puck Goes To....
Who else, Daniel Alfredsson with 2 goals and an assist. Danny Heatley also chipped in with 2 assists so we'll give one to him too.
The Stat Of The Game Is....
0, as in 0 goals scored by the Flyers in the 3rd period to 3 for the Senators. After battling to a
3-3 tie through 2 periods the Flyers succumbed to the constant pressure applied by the Senators, allowing 3 late goals in the 3rd period while failing to score any of their own.
The Bottom Line Is....
Well, it seems that even struggling teams like the Senators ,who had lost 6 of their last 8, can beat the Flyers these days who have now extended their franchise record losing streak to 9 games. Incredibly the Flyers also set a new record for futility at home with this their 6th consecutive loss at the Wachovia center, in fact their 3 wins at home this season, are the fewest of any NHL team at their home arena. I'd love to say something good about the Flyers now, but I just can't, sorry guys, happy holidays anyway though.
Friday, December 22, 2006
SIXERS NEWS
Sixers 98 Celtics 89
It Was Over When....
Kyle Kolver hit a three pointer to start the 2nd quarter. The shot, which seemed inconsequential at the time, put the Sixers up by 7, there largest lead of the game at the time. Incredibly following Korver's shot the Celtics would come no closer than within 4 points of the Sixers for the remainder of the night.
The Game Ball Goes To....
Andre Iguodala with a career high 31 points and 9 assists, Kevin Ollie with 14 points and 8 assists, Samuel Dalembert with 14 points and 12 rebounds, and Kyle Kolver with 14 points off the bench.
The Stat Of The Game Is....
28 as in 28 assists as a team for the Sixers and 9 as in only 9 turnovers as a team for the Sixers on the night, to 16 and 15 respectively for the Celtics as a team on the night. If you can take care of the ball and spread it around, and hit the open shots when you get them as Sixers did, you win, but if you don't take good care of the ball and you don't spread it around all that well, then you lose as the Celtics did.
The Bottom Line Is....
It's over, it's finally over. After 12 embarrassing losses the Sixers' losing streak has come to an end and the fact that it came against their archrival Boston Celtics makes it even sweeter. All I can say is thank God it's over.
Thursday, December 21, 2006
FLYERS NEWS
Canadiens 4 Flyers 2
It Was Over When....
The first period ended. the Canadiens jumped out a quick 2-0 lead in the period, from which the Flyers would never recover.
The Game Puck Goes To....
The Canadiens power play units which scored 3 of their 4 goals on the night(2 power play goals, and 1 shorthanded goal).
The Stat Of The Game Is....
37, as in 37 shots on goal for the Canadiens on the night, and 4 as in 4 goals scored by the Canadiens on the night, to 2 and 28 respectively on the night for the Flyers. Basically the Canadiens thoroughly outscored and outplayed the Flyers tonight.
The Bottom Line Is....
Well, what can I say, the Flyers just stink right now, with this their franchise record 8th consecutive loss.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phillies continued their offseason today by signing catcher Rod Barajas to a 3 year deal. Barajas will likely share time at catcher with rookie Carlos Ruiz who saw some action with the Phillies last season. Mike Lieberthal recently signed with his hometown L.A Dodgers, so he won't back this season, and Chris Coste the 33 year old catcher who broke in with Phils last season will likely spend this season as a pinch hitter, and the Phils number 3 catcher, who can also play first and third base. Also, the Phils rounded out their wheeling and dealing today by trading outfielder Jeff Conine to the Reds for minor league infielder Brad key and outfielder Javon Moran. Conine became expendable with the Phils recent acquisition of Jason Werth, so this trade should come as no surprise.
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
SIXERS NEWS
Pacers 101 Sixers 93
It Was over When....
The Pacer's Jermaine O'neal nailed a 2 point jump shot with 52 seconds to go to put the Pacers up for good 94-89.
The Game Ball Goes To....
Stephen Jackson with 25 points, Jermaine O'neal with a game high 34 points and 11 rebounds, and Danny Granger with 15 points off the bench.
The Stat Of The Game Is....
50, as in a field goal shooting percentage of 50% for the Pacers to a mere 46.1% shooting percentage for the Sixers. Basically,the team that shoots better is usually the team that wins.
The Bottom Line Is....
In their first game of the post AI era the Sixers gave Indiana all they could handle taking a 10 point lead at one point in the 2nd quarter, and staying within arm's length of the Pacers until late in the 4th quarter. Unfortunately, the youth and inexperience that currently dominates the Sixers(well, at least until Cwebb returns to the lineup, and Andre Miller joins the team for their next game) hurt them down stretch, as the Pacers easily put them away. That said the Sixers have now lost an embarrassing 12 games row, but hopefully their new additions from the Iverson trade will get them out this funk, because I don't think anything else will.
FLYERS NEWS
Just wanted to mention that the Flyers have recently made a couple interesting trades. Earlier today they sent winger Randy Robitaille to the Islanders for winger Mike York, and a few days a go they sent defenseman Freddy Meyer and a 3rd round draft pick also to the Islanders for defenseman Alexie Zhitnik. Now I don't know if the Flyers are really any better because of these trades but if nothing else they are trying to get better, rather than resting on their laurels, so I guess that's something.
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
FLYERS NEWS
Hurricanes 2 Flyers 1
It Was over When....
The final buzzer sounded. Although the Hurricanes were seemingly in control for most the game, it was a tight and hard fought contest throughout. In fact, in the 3rd period the Flyers were able to mount a furious comeback, cutting the Hurricanes lead to 2-1 and only when the buzzer sounded was it clear that the Flyers would not force overtime.
The Game Puck Goes To....
Hurricanes goalie Cam Ward who came up with 29 saves on the night and allowed only 1 goal. Of course against the Forsbergless the Flyers that may not seem like much but it is considering Flyers goalie Antero Niittymaki had 40 saves on the night but allowed 2 goals and took the loss all because of Ward.
The Stat Of The Game Is....
42, as in 42 shots on goal on the night for the Hurricanes, to just 30 for the Flyers. Basically if you fire that many shots at the goalie, some of them are bound to get in the net and they did tonight.
The Bottom Line Is....
It's obvious why the Flyers lost tonight, Peter Forsberg was not in the lineup and this team simply isn't very good without him. Do you really need me to say more?
SIXERS NEWS
Well, it's official Allen Iverson is a Sixer no more, as the Sixers finally pulled the plug on the trade that's been brewing for over a week now, sending Iverson along with backup forward Ivan Mcfarlin to the Denver Nuggets for forward Joe Smith, point guard Andre Miller, and 2 first round picks in the 2007 draft(meaning they will have 3 first round picks come draft day). On the whole I think this a good deal for both teams, the Nuggests now have a dynamic scoring duo in Iverson and Carmelo Anthony, and the Sixers got just about the best they could hope for in return, a legitimate starting point guard in Miller, and 2 first round draft picks. Now, it's pretty obvious that this trade probably won't help the the Sixers get all that much better this season, but I think it gives them everything they need in the long run, to return to the elite of the Eastern Conference, it's just going to take them a while to get there.
EAGLES NEWS
This seasons' pro bowl selections were announced today and three Eagles were named to the NFC roster. Offensive Lineman Sean Andrews and safety Brian Dawkins as starters, and cornerback Lito Sheppard as a backup. Also running back Brian Westbrook was named as the first alternate at running back, so there is a good chance he will also be playing in honolulu come February.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phillies signed free agent outfielder Jason Werth today. Werth has had quality stats in a utility role with the Dodgers the last few years, and is capable of playing all 3 outfield positions, so he should provide the Phils with some outfield depth, which is good considering they have yet to lock up David Dellucci for next season.
Monday, December 18, 2006
Sunday, December 17, 2006
EAGLES NEWS
Eagles 36 Giants 22
It Was Over When....
Eli Manning was hit hard by Sheldown Brown while attempting to throw a pass to Tiki Barber and it was intercepted by Trent Cole who then returned it 19 yards for a touchdown and a 14 point Eagles lead with just over 2:00 minutes to play.
The Game Ball Goes To....
The Eagles running game and run defense. The Speculation coming into this game was that the Eagles defense would not be able to handle the Giants running game and Eagles would not be able to run the ball effectively enough to win. However, the Eagles did not listen to all their critics, as Jeff Garcia, Brian Westbrook(now over 1,000 yards rushing for the season), and Correll Buckhalter combined to rush for 160 yards and 3 touchdowns(2 for Westbrook and 1 for Buckhalter), and the Eagles defense held Tiki Barber and Brandon Jacobs to a combined 88 yards rushing and 2 touchdowns(1 a piece).
The Stat Of The Game Is....
4, as in 4 turnovers for the Giants on the night, to just 2 for the Eagles. Generally speaking, if you lose the turnover battle you lose the game, as the Giants did today.
The Bottom Line Is....
This was a sweet victory for the Eagles. especially after what happened the last time these two teams met back in week two. The Eagles defense actually showed up for a change, and Jeff Garcia continued his consistent and quietly efficient play with 237 yards and 1 touchdown passing and 16 yards rushing. Now I'll admit it I am one of the many who thought that the Eagles were done after Mcnabb went down, but after this convincing win, which puts the Eagles ,now at 8-6, one step closer to reaching the playoffs and possibly winning the NFC East division, I can truly say that I am now a believer in this team and you should be too.
Saturday, December 16, 2006
SIXERS NEWS
Spurs 103 Sixers 98
It Was Over When....
Spurs point guard Tony Parker hit a jump shot with a little over 3:00 minutes to play in the game, tying the score at 95. Just a few minutes earlier the Sixers had actually held the lead for once at 95-93, but after Parker's jumper the Spurs would not trail again for the rest of the game.
The Game Ball Goes To....
Tony parker with 24 points and 8 assists, Tim Duncan with 21 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 assists, and Manu Ginobili with 17 points and 9 rebounds, basically the guys you expect to see leading the way for the Spurs night in and night out.
The Stat Of The Game Is....
That big dnp (did not play) denoted next to the names Chris Webber and Allen Iveron in the Sixers half of the box score. It's pretty clear by now that all the Sixers are without Webber and Iverson is a young team that doesn't know how to win, and they didn't tonight either.
The Bottom Line Is....
As bad as things could have gone for the Sixers tonight, considering they were without both A.I who won't be back any time soon and Chris Webber who had better come back soon, I'd say the Sixers acquitted themselves pretty well tonight. I just wish they would have won, but hey tomorrow's another day I guess.
FLYERS NEWS
Capitals 4 Flyers 1
It Was Over When....
The first period ended. For a fleeting, and I mean fleeting moment it looked as if the Flyers might actually be on their way to a win. Peter Forsberg was finally back in the lineup and a little over 3:00 minutes into the game Mike Knuble, assisted by Forsberg of course, scored to give the Flyers a quick 1-0 lead and all was well. Unfortunately, neither the lead nor Forsberg would last for long, as the Capitals tied it with about 1:00 minute left in the period, and Forsberg went down with a concussion after receiving a vicious hit delivered by Alexander Ovechkin. Forsberg would not return and the Flyers would not score or lead again for the remainder of the game.
The Game Puck Goes To....
Alexander Ovechkin with a goal and 2 assists, and Alexander Semin with 2 goals and an assist.
The Stat Of The Game Is....
0, as in 0 minutes played by Flyer's superstar Peter Forsberg after the 1st period. Thus far this season the Flyers are winless when Forsberg doesn't play, and so Forsberg going down with a concussion in the first period was the last thing the Flyers wanted to see tonight and ultimately it cost them the game.
The Bottom Line Is....
Frankly the Flyers just aren't very good without Forsberg, so hopefully the concussion won't keep him out too long, otherwise the Flyers are in big trouble, as if they weren't already.
Friday, December 15, 2006
SIXERS NEWS
Mavericks 93 Sixers 79
It Was Over When....
As soon as it started. The Mavericks raced out to a 27-11 lead after 1 quarter of play, and never looked back.
The Game Ball Goes To....
Josh Howard with 15 points and 8 rebounds, Eric Dampier with 12 points and 8 rebounds, and Jason Terry with a game high 18 points.
The Stat Of The Game Is....
Hey, what can I say, there's really no single distinguishable stat from this game, as the Mavs pretty much dominated the Sixers in every category. Still, if there is a stat that hurt the Sixers tonight it's free throw shooting. On the night the Sixers shot just 70.6% from the free throw line, while the Mavs shot a perfect 100% from the stripe and won easily.
The Bottom Line is....
Let's face it, the Sixers just aren't very good right now. They have lost 10 straight and don't appear to have another win in them anytime soon.
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
FLYERS NEWS
Penguins 8 Flyers 4
It Was Over When....
The second period ended. The two teams went back and forth in the 1st period with the Penguins holding a tenuous 3-2 lead at the end of the period. However the 2nd period was all Penguins, as they scored 3 goals in the period for a 6-2 lead after 2 periods.
The Game Puck Goes To....
Sergei Gonchar with 2 goals and 3 assists and Sidney Crosby with 1 goal and 5 assists.
The Stat Of The Game Is....
8, as in 8 goals on the night for the Penguins (3 power play, 1 shorthanded, and 4 at full strength). Basically, the Penguins just have too much firepower right now for a struggling team
like the Flyers to handle.
The Bottom Line Is....
It's been clear all season that there are holes a plenty in the Flyer's defense, and the Penguins simply exposed them tonight. I mean, the Penguins have killed the Flyers all season so far and things didn't change tonight. Until Peter Forsberg returns, the Flyers will have no chance of matching up with any team like the Penguins which can fly around the ice and score almost at will. So all I can say is Forsberg better get those new skates soon, before the Flyers' season goes back down the drain.
SIXERS NEWS
Celtics 101 Sixers 81
It Was Over When....
The 2nd half started. Frankly speaking, this one was only tight for a half, with the Celtics holding a tenuous 2 point lead at the half. The 2nd half though, belonged to the Celtics, as the Sixers offense went cold, scoring just 40 points as a team during the second half.
The Game Ball Goes to....
Ryan Gomes with 18 points and 7 rebounds and Paul Pierce with a game high 18 points.
The Stat Of The Game Is....
Can you say bad shooting, the Sixers sure could tonight. The Sixers as a team shot just 39.7% from the field and failed to hit a 3 pointer, as even Kyle Kolver went 0 for 3 from beyond.
The Bottom Line Is....
This was Just an ugly loss for the Sixers and their 9th straight. The fact that it came at the hands of their archrival, the Boston Celtics makes it even worse. I think I mentioned earlier that I had just about given up hope on the Flyers this season, and well after this loss, I am starting to feel the same way about the Sixers.
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
FLYERS NEWS
Rangers 3 Flyers 1
It Was Over When....
The first period ended. The Flyers just had a tough night offensively, and after fighting to a 1-1 tie through 1 period, they would not score again for the remainder of the night, while the Rangers added a goal each in the 2 remaining periods.
The Game Puck Goes To....
The Rangers' defense which limited the Flyers to a season low 15 shots on goal, and as mentioned shut them out after the first period.
The Stat Of The Game Is....
15, as in only 15 shots on goal for the Flyers as a team throughout the entire games. Like I said this night just belonged to the swarming Ranger's defense.
The Bottom Line Is....
This loss just continues an overall tough season for the Flyers. Basically, all of the things that have plagued them all year, plagued them again tonight, plus once again Peter Forsberg was not in the lineup as he continues to await the arrival of the pair of skates that will allow his surgically repaired ankle to move across the ice comfortably. Still, even without Forsberg the Flyers could have played far better than this. They couldn't score or even get shots on goal while on offense, and they couldn't stop the Rangers from taking shots, with 34, or scoring goals with 3 while on defense. Put it all together it just adds up to another inexplicable loss for the Flyers, but hey I guess that's life, I mean what else can I say.
Monday, December 11, 2006
SIXERS NEWS
Trail Blazers 81 Sixers 79
It Was Over When....
Andre Iguodala's three point prayer went unanswered at the buzzer. Chris Webber had previously tied the game at 79 with a clutch 3 pointer with about 13 seconds to play. However, the Sixers defense once again failed when they needed it the most, as Zach Randolph was able to easily slip by a couple Sixers defenders and bank in what turned out to be the game winning layup.
The Game Ball Goes To....
Zach Randolph with 18 points and 10 rebounds ,despite being in constant foul trouble all night long, and Juan Dixon with 17 points off the bench.
The Stat Of The Game Is....
79, as in only 79 points scored by the Sixers on the night. It's pretty clear that this team truly lacks the firepower to win games without Allen Iverson in the lineup, as A.I once again sat out tonight and is rumored to be on the trading block, indefinitely, at this point.
The Bottom Line Is....
Well, I don't know how things can possibly get any worse for the Sixers right now. With this loss they have now dropped 8 straight games, and are a measily 5-15 overall, their worst record ever at this point in the season. Hopefully, since they can't possibly get any lower for the Sixers, things will starting looking up for them, but at this rate who knows.
Sunday, December 10, 2006
EAGLES NEWS
Eagles 21 Redskins 19
It Was Over When....
Eagles, safety Brian Dawkins sacked Redskins rookie QB Jason Campbell on 3rd and goal from the 3 with the score 21-16 Eagles and the Redskins bidding to take the lead. Following the sack the Redskins elected to kick a field goal rather than go for it on 4th and down, and when the Eagles got the ball back with a little over 5:00 minutes to play they were able to safely run it all the way down.
The Game Ball Goes To....The Eagles secondary. Linebacker Omar Gaither and safety Micheal Lewis each had an interception, with lewis returning his 84 yards for a touchdown. Safety Brian Dawkins also made 2 key stops on 3rd down late in the 4th quarter. First he batted down a sure first down catch at about the Redskins own 20 yard line, forcing a punt which gave the Eagles offense great field position, though they squandered it. Lastly, as mentioned he got the sack on Campbell on 3rd and goal from the 3 which effectively sealed the Eagles victory.
The Stat Of The Game Is....
2, as in 2 turnovers on the day for the Redskins to 1 for the Eagles. On the day the Redskins doubled up the Eagles in every offensive category, except on the scoreboard, where 2 Jason Campbell interceptions turned into 14 points for the Eagles and a 21-19 Eagle victory.
The Bottom Line Is....
This was another big win for the Eagles. In fact, with this win, and the Cowboys' loss last night, the Eagles can win the NFC East division if they win their remaining 3 games. Of course, if the defense keeps playing like it did today, that won't be easy. The Redskins who've struggled on offense all season were able to rack up over 400 yards of offense on the Eagles, including 209 rushing yards. The offenses the Eagles will be facing in their final 3 games, (Giants, Cowboys, Falcons) are all strong rushing teams. If the Eagles hope to hang on and make the playoffs they are going to have to amp it up on defense because the way they are playing right now just won't get it done. Even as well as the Eagles offense has been playing it won't be nearly enough to offset the defense if it doesn't start playing better.
Saturday, December 09, 2006
SIXERS NEWS
Magic 86 Sixers 84
It Was Over When....
Magic point guard Jameer Nelson, all 5-11 of him, blocked the last ditch shot of Sixer point guard Kevin Ollie, as time expired.
The Game Ball Goes To....
Dwight Howard with 28 points and 12 rebounds, and Grant Hill with 23 points and 7 rebounds.
The Stat Of The Game Is....
Once again, 0 as in 0 minutes played tonight by Sixers star Allen Iverson. Yes the Sixers the played well against the Magic, taking them to the final buzzer, but when it came time for the Sixers to put up that last shot there was no Iverson to take it, and instead they gave the ball to Kevin Ollie and you know the rest.
The Bottom Line Is....
The Sixers actually played pretty well tonight for a change. Chris Webber again lit it up, coming within 2 assists of a triple double, and the other A.I, Andre Iguodala chipped in 19 points. The Sixers defense also came to life for the first time in a while, limiting the Magic to just 86 points on 44.6% shooting. Still, when it came time to take that last shot, the Sixers were at a loss without Allen Iverson in the lineup for the 2nd night in a row and they came up short, suffering their 7 straight loss. However, if the Sixers can keep playing like this ,they may just end this losing streak sooner rather than later.
FLYERS NEWS
Capitals 5 Flyers 3
It Was Over When....
The 3rd period began. Through the first two periods the Flyers and the Capitals were neck and neck with each other scoring 3 goals each. In the 3rd period however, it was all Capitals, as they scored 2 goals and did not allow the Flyers to answer.
The Game Puck Goes To....
Capitals' wunderkind, Alexander Ovechkin with a goal and 2 assists.
The Stat Of The Game is....
o, as in o minutes played on the ice by Flyers superstar Peter Forsberg, the 2nd game in a row he has missed. The Flyers played pretty well tonight, but alas, the Flyers without Forsberg are like the Sixers without Iverson, thus they did not have the firepower to stick with the Capitals in the 3rd period.
The Bottom Line Is....
The Flyers just can't win without Peter Forsberg in the lineup. They are now 0-7 without him andh have now lost 3 straight overall. Translation, until Forsberg comes back the Flyers are going to keep playing well, but fall short as they did tonight.
Friday, December 08, 2006
SIXERS NEWS
Wizards 113 Sixers 98
It Was Over When....
The second half started. The Sixers actually led by 4 at the half, but the 2nd half belonged to Gilbert Arenas and the Wizards as they pumped in 65 points in the half and ran away with it.
The Game Ball Goes To....
Gilbert Arenas with 32 points, Caron Butler with 20 points and 11 rebounds, and Deshawn Stevenson with 17 points.
The Stat Of The Game Is....
0, as in o minutes played on the night for Sixers star guard Allen Iverson, who sat out the game supposedly with back spasms. Conversely, Wizards' star Gilbert Arenas, relaxed and healthy for about the first time this season played nearly all night long with 38 minutes of playing time and as mentioned scored 32 points.
The Bottom Line Is....
Considering, they were without star Allen Iverson, the Sixers actually didn't play that badly, but they didn't play all that well either. After a strong first half the Sixers were hurt by the absence of Iverson, and were not able to closeout the streaking Wizards as their defense was again porous. Oddly enough in his first opportunity of the season to play without Allen Iverson, Chris Webber actually looked like Chris Webber for a change with his first 20 point, 10 rebound night of the season(21 and 10). Still, it wasn't enough for a Sixers win and things don't figure to get better any time soon, as Iverson is expected to sit out again tomorrow night against the Magic.
FLYERS NEWS
Devils 2 Flyers 0
It Was Over When....
Devil's goalie Martin Brodeur took the ice. Brodeur shutout the Flyers, saving all 28 shots they sent his way.
The Game Puck Goes To....
Devils' goalie Martin Brodeur who as mentioned shutout the Flyers on 28 shots.
The Stat Of The Game Is....
0, as in o goals scored by the Flyers on the night, because as mentioned they were shutout by Martin Brodeur.
The Bottom Line Is....
Hey, what can I say, the night belonged to Brodeur, the Flyers just couldn't find a way to get the puck past him. Still, it's too bad that this had to happen to the Flyers now, just as they were seemingly turning around their season. Hoepfully this loss hasn't curved all of the momentum they had been building.
Thursday, December 07, 2006
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
SIXERS NEWS
Bulls 121 Sixers 94
It Was Over When....
It started, I mean the Sixers were never really in this one and were already behind 39-16 at the end of the first quarter.
The Game Ball Goes To....
Ben Gordon with 31 points off the bench, Luol Deng with 21 points and 10 rebounds, Chris Duhon with 10 points and 12 assists, and heck even Ben Wallace who had 12 points and 8 rebounds, up from 0 and 0 the last time these 2 teams met.
The Stat Of The Game Is....
61.5 as in a 61.5 shooting percentage on the night for the suddenly unbeatable Bulls who have now won 6 in a row and with shooting like that who can blame them.
The Bottom Line Is....
Can you say, blowout. I mean the Bulls are just on a roll right now and it would have been tough for anyone to beat them tonight, let alone the struggling Sixers. The defense was once again woeful for the Sixers and the offense wasn't much better as Chris Webber continues to struggle. Basically this was an all-around loss for the Sixers tonight, their 5th straight and counting.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phillies continued thier off season work by making a huge move today, trading pitchers Gavin Floyd and Gio Gonzalez to the White Sox for ace starting pitcher Freddy Garcia who went 17-9 with a 4.53 ERA. last year and is 116-71 with a 4.01 ERA in his 8 year career. Yes, that's right Phillies' fans we have an ace in our starting rotation. Of course this also gives the Phillies 6 starters now, with Jon Lieber being the obvious odd man out, so he's likely to either be traded or sent to the bullpen.
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
Monday, December 04, 2006
EAGLES NEWS
Eagles 27 Panthers 24
It Was Over When....
Eagles' cornerback Lito Sheppard intercepted Panther QB Jake Delhomme in the back of the endzone on first and goal with 25 seconds left. Before Lito's pick it really appeared that Carolina was going to hand the Eagles yet another loss on the final play of the game, but Lito's pick saved the day.
The Game Ball Goes To....
Eagles QB Jeff Garcia who hit 21 of his 39 passes for 312 yards, 3 touchdowns and 0 interceptions. Coming into this game many of the fans had questioned head coach Andy Reid's decision to stick with Garcia for another week, believing that 3rd string QB A.J Feeley was the better option. However, in his career on monday night Garcia had a 104.7 QB rating with 7 touchdowns and o interceptions and he simply added to those stats tonight, erasing any doubts among the fans that he could lead this team.
The Stat Of The Game Is....
0, as in 0 turnovers for the Eagles tonight to 2 for the Panthers, both in the 4th quarter. Both were also Jake Delhomme interceptions, with the 1st one setting up what turned out to be the game winning field goal for the Eagles, and the 2nd one sealing the win for the Eagles.
The Bottom Line Is....
Man, what a game, I mean don't you just love it when it comes down to about the last play like that. Anyway, this is a big win for the Birds. It ends the 2 game losing streak they had been on, and it gets them back in the playoff picture, for at 6-6 they currently own the 6th and final playoff spot in the NFC ahead of the Panthers and Falcons who are also 6-6. Yeah, their schedule is brutal the rest of the way, but if they can just find a way to win 2 of their last 4 they might just get in at 8-8. Basically, what this does for the Eagles is give them back the hope that seemed lost after last week, because they now know that they can win without Mcnabb and the defense knows that it still has what it takes to win games, as they limited the Panthers to just 108 yards rushing on the night, which obviously isn't great, but for this run defense it's pretty darn good. Anyway, the Eagles have hope now and they are just going to have to hold onto it and continue take care of business these next 4 weeks like they did tonight.
Sunday, December 03, 2006
SIXERS NEWS
Timberwolves 95 Sixers 84
It Was Over When....
Timberwolves' forward Ricky Davis stepped on the court in the 4th quarter. Davis scored 14 of his 22 points on night in the quarter, helping to turn a tight game into a runaway for the T-Wolves.
The Game Ball Goes To....
Ricky Davis with 22 points, Mike James with 20 points, and Kevin Garnett with 15 points, 14 rebounds, and 6 assists.
The Stat Of The Game Is....
39 as in just a shooting percentage of 39 for the Sixers on the night and 12.5 as in a measily 3-point shooting percentage of 12.5 for the Sixers on the night. Basically you can't win if you shoot that poorly.
The Bottom Line Is....
Well let me see, that's 1-2-3-4, count 'em 4 straight losses now for the Sixers. Man that 3-0 start seems like it was a long time ago. Once again the Sixers defense was terrible and as mentioned the shooting just wasn't there. I mean, who knew they would miss Shavlick Randolph so much. So far they have yet to win since he went on injured reserve, despite the fact that Chris Webber has returned to the lineup. Speaking of injured reserve, Kyle Korver also sat out again tonight, and that pretty much explains the poor 3-point shooting percentage, but what of their other problems tonight. As far as I know there is no easy way to explain it, they just don't seem to have the same energy level they had at the beginning of the season and I don't know why.
Saturday, December 02, 2006
SIXERS NEWS
Nets 112 Sixers 107
It Was Over When....
Andre Iguodala's in bounds pass sailed over everybody and onto the sidelines with 3 seconds left and the Sixers down 110-107. Vince Carter then hit 2 free throws to seal the 112-107 Nets victory.
The Game Ball Goes To....
Jason Kidd with 13 assists, Vince Carter with 41 points and 8 rebounds, Richard Jefferson with 24 points and 8 assists, and Nenad Krstic with 20 points.
The Stat Of The Game Is....
20, as in 20 points scored by Sixers rookie Rodney Carney in his first career start, in the hopes that he would fill the void left by Kyle Korver who sat out the night with a sprained ankle. Yeah, so the Sixers lost, but it is still encouraging to see Carney score 20 points in his first start.
The Bottom Line Is....
Incredibly, despite the fact that both teams came into the night with a record of 5-9 this game was actually for first place in the Atlantic division. Since the Nets are notorious for early season loafing, and the Sixers had the benefit of Chris Webber finally returning to lineup, you'd think the Sixers would have had a good chance to win this one. For some reason though, it just wasn't there for the Sixers tonight. The defense was terrible throughout and the Sixers as a team really didn't come alive until about the last 3:00 minutes of the game, when as it turned out after Iguodala's ill-fated in bounds pass, it was too little too late. This loss now marks 10 losses out of the last 12 for the Sixers and it tells me that this team is in trouble. For now they are only 1 game out of 1st place in the woeful Atlantic division, but if they have any hope of even sniffing the playoffs this season they are going to have to get in gear and turns things around fast, before it is once again too little, too late.
FLYERS NEWS
Devils 4 Flyers 3 Final in a shootout
It Was Over When....
the Devils Brad Lukowich scored with just over 2 minutes left in the 3rd period, to tie the game at 3 and effectively send it into overtime. So far this season the Flyers have not fared very well, in the extra period and beyond, so just having to play in overtime significantly reduced their chances of winning this one.
The Game Puck Goes To....
The Devil's Zach Parise who scored both the Devils first goal of the night, and the game winner in the shootout.
The Stat Of The Game Is....
0, as in o goals scored by the Flyers during the shootout, pretty pathetic considering their two shooters were the normally reliable Petr Nedved and Simon Gagne.
The Bottom Line Is....
Ugggh, I can't believe the Flyers lost tonight. I mean, they are so close to breaking open a long winning streak. If they could just get one or two more things to go their way, they'd be good. Seriously though, doesn't it always seem like every Flyers' loss happens because of some sort of freak accident. Take tonight for example, the Flyers were up 3-2 with just over 2 minutes to play, and were on the power play, so it was pretty much okay game's over the Flyers are going to win right? wrong, because at that instant, Brad Luckovich somehow slips behind the Flyer's man-advantage defense and scores to tie the game while shorthanded. I mean think about it, who else would blow a 3-2 lead with just over 2 minutes to play on a shorthanded goal, but the Flyers. Really who? just tell me who? no one that's who.
Friday, December 01, 2006
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phillies have been working on their latest free agent signing for some time now, but today they finally made it official signing righthanded pitcher Adam Eaton to a 3 year, $24.5 million contract. Eaton, a former Phillies draft pick in 1996, went 7-4 with a 5.12 ERA for the Texas Rangers last season in limited work (just 65 innings due to a finger injury), and will replace another former Phillies draft pick, the recently departed Randy Wolf , in the Phils rotation (Wolf just signed a one year $8 million deal with the LA Dodgers, his hometown team). In his career Eaton is 54-45, with a 4.40 ERA, and 666 strikeouts. Those are not great numbers, but clearly good enough for the Phils to include him in their rotation, which will also feature, Brett Myers, Cole Hamels, Jon Lieber, and of course the newly re-signed Jamie Moyer.
SIXERS NEWS
There is more bad news in the injury department for the Sixers today. With Chris Webber already on the IR indefinitely they could ill afford to lose any other big men, but they did today, as Shavlick Randolph who had been playing in place of Webber at power forward severely injured his ankle and may be lost for the season. God only knows who the Sixers will start at power forward at this point, obviously getting Webber back would be the best thing but at this point its' not clear as to when he'll be back, so they may have to delve into the free agent market, but in order to do so they would have to cut one of their players, so who knows.
Thursday, November 30, 2006
FLYERS NEWS
Flyers 3 Islanders 2
It Was Over When....
Mike Knuble scored with just over 2 minutes to play in the 2nd period to give the Flyers a 3-0 lead. Yes ,the Islanders were able to battle back, but goalie Antero Niittymaki has been so good lately that you just had to assume that a 3-0 lead would be enough for him to get the Flyers a win.
The Game Puck Goes To....
Goalie Antero Niittymaki who faced 41, count em 41 shots on goal throughout the night and somehow managed to save 39 of them. Basically, this is a Kudos to Niittymaki for surviving another night of 40 + shots on goal.
The Stat Of The Game Is....
2 as in 2 power play goals out of 4 chances on the night for the Flyers, to 0 power play goals out of 4 chances on the night for the Islanders. The Flyers penalty killing unit has been good all season and they were again tonight. However, the Flyers have not been very good on the power play this season, and their power play goals have been few and far between. Thus, just scoring 2 power goals on one night is a major achievement for this team.
The Bottom Line is....
If you want to know how to win an NHL game just look at what the Flyers did tonight. They dominated on the power play, not only scoring 2 power play goals and not only not allowing any power play goals by the Islanders, but scoring one shorthanded as well. Thus they put up a total of 3 goals on the night which as I mentioned the other day is the magic number when it comes to today's NHL. Also as Mentioned the Flyers received 39 saves out of 41 shots from goalie Antero Niittymaki, which is astounding. Basically, tonight was a real team effort for the Flyers, and everything that could have gone right did. Also with this victory the Flyers have now won 3 of their last 4 and really do appear to be on a roll heading into December which is good since they are coming up on some crucial games on their schedule, against other teams in their division. It really does seem like the Flyers have suddenly realized that it is not too late to save their season and I just hope they can keep it up.
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
FLYERS NEWS
Predators 3 Flyers 2
It Was Over When....
the Predators Martin Erat scored with just over 5 minutes to play in the 3rd period to give them a 3-2 lead. The Flyers R.J Umberger had scored just seconds earlier to tie the game at 2 and provide temporary hope that Flyers could push the game into overtime, but Erat's goal erased all that.
The Game Puck Goes To....
Predator's goalie Chris Mason. Flyer's goal Antero Niittymaki had several fantastic sprawling saves throughout the night, saving 26 of the 29 shots he faced, but Mason was just a tick better saving 24 of the 26 shots he faced and preserving the predators win after Erat's score gave the predators the late lead.
The Stat Of The Game Is....
2, as in only 2 goals scored on the night for the Flyers. Generally, with the way the NHL is now, if you don't score at least 3 goals you're not going to win and the Flyers didn't tonight.
The Bottom Line Is....
Well, it was fun while it lasted but the Flyers 2 game winning streak has come to an end, and I mean really did anyone expect it to last all that long. This team just isn't consistent enough to carry on a winning streak for too long. Still, the Flyers didn't play that badly tonight, well at least until that last score by Erat. Seriously, what was Mike Knuble thinking throwing that puck out in front of his own net. I mean aren't you supposed go back behind the net first and wait for your teammates to clear everything out before you try to clear the puck out of your zone, or at least try to find an opening before you through the puck away. Anyway, that's just another one of the many ways this season that the Flyers have figured out a way to snatch defeat from the clutches of victory.
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