There is nothing new to report
Sunday, February 07, 2010
Saturday, February 06, 2010
SIXERS NEWS
The miracle has happened, the Sixers have 4 win a row with a comeback victory over the Houston Rockets tonight in Houston. They really didn't do anything special either, just the same solid basketball that had got them through last 3 games. They rebounded well, distributed the ball as well as they would have liked, shot reasonable well, at 48% from the field, and 41 % from beyond the arc with 10 threes, and played some sold defense most of the night, in holding Houston to just 41% shooting from the field, and finally solid bench play. Overall you just can't ask for much more from the Sixers than they gave tonight. Okay maybe you can ask for a better 2nd quarter, where they got outscored 35-21 to fall behind by 10 at the half, but other than it was all good. The 2nd half was all Sixers as they rallied ahead in the 4th quarter and hung on to win 101-95.
Offensively, Thad Young led the way again with 17 off the bench. Meanwhile, Andre Iguodala added 14 and 10 rebounds, Elton Brand put up 13 points, Willie Green, again subbing in for AI, chipped in with 15 and even Jrue Holiday got in on the act with 10. So again just a solid scoring night for the Sixers. Defensively, Sammy D led the way with a block and 10 more rebounds, to extend his double digit rebound streak. Andre Iguodala was also huge defensively, as he kept Shane Battier, who is often lethal from beyond the arc, under wraps with just 1 trey and only 5 points. So it was really a sold night all around for the Sixers and that's what you want to see from them tonight, because more often then not solid basketball across the board will win you the game.
Aaron Brooks scored 34 points in a losing cause for the Rockets. I don't know about you but I can't ever remember seeing a guy scoring that many points in a loss. With his 10 rebounds tonight Sammy D now has 10 + rebounds in 14 consecutive games. Not bad huh. As of now the Sixers, at 19-31 overall, are up to 10th in the Eastern conferencee, but remain 5.5 games out of 8th in the Eastern conference, with the 8th place Bulls having snapped their 3 game losing streak tonight. We'll see how long this streak lasts, but right now I don't about you but I am loving what I am seeing.
Offensively, Thad Young led the way again with 17 off the bench. Meanwhile, Andre Iguodala added 14 and 10 rebounds, Elton Brand put up 13 points, Willie Green, again subbing in for AI, chipped in with 15 and even Jrue Holiday got in on the act with 10. So again just a solid scoring night for the Sixers. Defensively, Sammy D led the way with a block and 10 more rebounds, to extend his double digit rebound streak. Andre Iguodala was also huge defensively, as he kept Shane Battier, who is often lethal from beyond the arc, under wraps with just 1 trey and only 5 points. So it was really a sold night all around for the Sixers and that's what you want to see from them tonight, because more often then not solid basketball across the board will win you the game.
Aaron Brooks scored 34 points in a losing cause for the Rockets. I don't know about you but I can't ever remember seeing a guy scoring that many points in a loss. With his 10 rebounds tonight Sammy D now has 10 + rebounds in 14 consecutive games. Not bad huh. As of now the Sixers, at 19-31 overall, are up to 10th in the Eastern conferencee, but remain 5.5 games out of 8th in the Eastern conference, with the 8th place Bulls having snapped their 3 game losing streak tonight. We'll see how long this streak lasts, but right now I don't about you but I am loving what I am seeing.
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers wrapped up their road trip tonight in Minnesota with a matchup against the Wild. Considering the Wild came in with their 5th string goalie in net, they should have been an easy mark for the Flyers on this night. However, that goalie Anton Khudobin, starting just his 2nd career game, was incredibly good in his NHL debut a few nights ago and he simply picked up right where he left off tonight. Well that and the Flyers just continued to struggle to find any continuity while on the offensive attack. The solid scoring chances just weren't there for the Flyers. Thus, Kudobin was able to hold the Orange and Black to just one score on the night, by Dan Carcillo late in the 1st period. At the time Carcillo's score tied the game at 1 and briefly restored hopes of a Flyer's victory. It wasn't mean to be tonight though
Owen Nolan scored for a 2-1 Wild lead late in the 2nd period, and against the struggling the Flyers that was enough for victory. At first glance of the stats it would seem the Flyers outplayed Minnesota. They had more shots on goal, and won more faceoffs than the wild and yet they still lost. Sometimes it is just not your right, especially when you have just one goal in your last 2 games combined. Earlier today the Flyers acquired winger Ville Leino from the Detroit Red Wings in exchange for Ollie Kristian Tollefsen. He was healthy scratch tonight because he didn't arrive in Minnesota in time for the game. It will be interesting to see where he fits. As of now, with still 59 points overall, the Flyers are 8th in the Eastern conference, so they're okay despite the losses, but they'll need to figure things out soon.
Owen Nolan scored for a 2-1 Wild lead late in the 2nd period, and against the struggling the Flyers that was enough for victory. At first glance of the stats it would seem the Flyers outplayed Minnesota. They had more shots on goal, and won more faceoffs than the wild and yet they still lost. Sometimes it is just not your right, especially when you have just one goal in your last 2 games combined. Earlier today the Flyers acquired winger Ville Leino from the Detroit Red Wings in exchange for Ollie Kristian Tollefsen. He was healthy scratch tonight because he didn't arrive in Minnesota in time for the game. It will be interesting to see where he fits. As of now, with still 59 points overall, the Flyers are 8th in the Eastern conference, so they're okay despite the losses, but they'll need to figure things out soon.
Friday, February 05, 2010
SIXERS NEWS
Coming into tonight the Sixers had won 2 games in a row and with a win would extend to a 3 game winning streak for the first time all season. Given the talent level of their opponents, the New Orleans Hornets, you wouldn't think that would be a likely proposition. However, the defeated New Orleans 96-92 when they came to Philly a month ago and the Hornets came into the night without the services of Chris Paul who is out with a knee injury for at least the next 3 weeks. Everyone knows the Hornets with Chris Paul are much different team than the Hornets without Chris Paul and that was no more evident than tonight. Without Paul's usual 20+ points and 10+ assists, the Hornets came out flat and did not have enough of a scoring punch to stick with the Sixers. While Paul's replacement, rookie Darren Collison, did put up 17 points, he could manage only 4 assists. Thus, besides Collison, only 2 other Hornets scored in double figures, and despite shooting a decent 46% from the field, and a red hot 52% from beyond the arc, New Orleans managed just 94 points.
Of course it was all the absence of Paul that doomed New Orleans tonight. The Sixer's played pretty well tonight too. They had all momentum in the world coming off the overtime over the Bulls and it propelled them through this game. They kept the pressure up on defense, forcing 12 Hornet's turnovers, and outrebounding them 46-36. Offensively, Andre Iguodala and Elton Brand continued their solid play, with 14, and 11 points respectively. Willie Green, again starting in place of AI, also chipped in with 12, but the big story for the Sixers on the night was their bench which simply obliterated the Hornets with 51 pts, as Lou Williams(11), Thad Young(19), and Rodney Carney(13) combined for 44 big points. Those points were really difference on this night with entire New Orleans' bench scoring just 27 points. It's hard to lose when your bench so thoroughly outclasses the opponent's bench, but the Sixers almost did in this one. After taking a 9 point lead into the half, they watch a New Orleans cut it to 6 heading into the 4th quarter. Fortunately, in the 4th the Sixers managed to stabilize and held off the late charging 101-94.
I don't have to tell you how remarkable it is that it took the Sixers over the half the season to compile they're first 3 game winning streak. It will be interesting to see if they can extend it to say 4 or 5 or even more. Who knows maybe there's life yet in the Sixer's playoff hopes. Sammy Dalembert registered 16 rebounds today, giving him double digit rebounds for the 13th consecutive game. What a gamer he is. At present the Sixers rather precariously at 18-31 overall. That's just good enough to be 11th in the Eastern conference, 5.5 games out of 8th. On the other hand that's also just bad enough for GM Ed Stefanski to be thinking about blowing up the team, by trading Andre Iguodala, and Sammy Dalembert in exhange for expiring contracts, or some other piece, that will help clear the space to make a run at things next season. So things will be very interesting for the next week or so before the all-star break. Should the Sixer go back to their old ways Stefanski will have no choice but to blow the team up or he might lose his job, but if the Sixers keep this up and suddenly find themselves back in the conversation for a playoff spot then big Ed might just have to stick with these guys and trust that they actually have talent after all. We'll find out soon enough.
Of course it was all the absence of Paul that doomed New Orleans tonight. The Sixer's played pretty well tonight too. They had all momentum in the world coming off the overtime over the Bulls and it propelled them through this game. They kept the pressure up on defense, forcing 12 Hornet's turnovers, and outrebounding them 46-36. Offensively, Andre Iguodala and Elton Brand continued their solid play, with 14, and 11 points respectively. Willie Green, again starting in place of AI, also chipped in with 12, but the big story for the Sixers on the night was their bench which simply obliterated the Hornets with 51 pts, as Lou Williams(11), Thad Young(19), and Rodney Carney(13) combined for 44 big points. Those points were really difference on this night with entire New Orleans' bench scoring just 27 points. It's hard to lose when your bench so thoroughly outclasses the opponent's bench, but the Sixers almost did in this one. After taking a 9 point lead into the half, they watch a New Orleans cut it to 6 heading into the 4th quarter. Fortunately, in the 4th the Sixers managed to stabilize and held off the late charging 101-94.
I don't have to tell you how remarkable it is that it took the Sixers over the half the season to compile they're first 3 game winning streak. It will be interesting to see if they can extend it to say 4 or 5 or even more. Who knows maybe there's life yet in the Sixer's playoff hopes. Sammy Dalembert registered 16 rebounds today, giving him double digit rebounds for the 13th consecutive game. What a gamer he is. At present the Sixers rather precariously at 18-31 overall. That's just good enough to be 11th in the Eastern conference, 5.5 games out of 8th. On the other hand that's also just bad enough for GM Ed Stefanski to be thinking about blowing up the team, by trading Andre Iguodala, and Sammy Dalembert in exhange for expiring contracts, or some other piece, that will help clear the space to make a run at things next season. So things will be very interesting for the next week or so before the all-star break. Should the Sixer go back to their old ways Stefanski will have no choice but to blow the team up or he might lose his job, but if the Sixers keep this up and suddenly find themselves back in the conversation for a playoff spot then big Ed might just have to stick with these guys and trust that they actually have talent after all. We'll find out soon enough.
Thursday, February 04, 2010
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils signed reliever Oscar Villareal to a minor league deal today. He missed all of last season while recuperating from elbow surgery and will not take part in the Phils MLB spring training camp However, with a 24-15 record and a 3.86 ERA in his career, plus 9 wins out of the bullpen in 2006, he provides good insurance for the Phils at AAA Lehigh, should any injuries or poor play hurt the big league roster. So in sum the with Villareal to Phils continue to make themselves a much deeper team then they were last year. That could pay dividends late in the season when the Phils are able to remain fresh while other teams start to break down.
Wednesday, February 03, 2010
SIXERS NEWS
After barely beating the NBA's worst team, the New Jersey Nets, in their last game the Sixers couldn't have like their chances coming into tonight against Derick Rose and the Chicago Bulls, currently holding onto that 8th spot in the Eastern conference. Still, there they were hanging with the Bulls ,one quarter after another, refusing to let them getaway. They were actually up by 1 after the 1st quarter, down 7 at the half, and tied after 3 quarters, before pulling out to a lead midway through the 4th quarter. Eventually Chicago rallied back and the Sixers could easily have layed down at that point and taken the loss. Intead they uncharacteristically ratcheted up the defense and stayed right with Chicago until an Andre Iguodala pulled the Sixers even again at 94 all. Unfortunately, Iggy missed his next free throw and Rose came up short on a fadeway at the buzzer to send the game into overtime. The Sixer's tough defense took center stage as they held Chicago to just 9 points and pulled out the impressive 106-103 win.
The Sixer's defense really was great tonight, especially in the 2nd half. Overall they held Chicago to just 44% shooting from field and 36% shooting from beyond, while outrebounding them 43-41, blocking 7 Bull' s shots(Elton Brand and Samuel Dalembert each had 3 ) and forcing 17 Bulls turnovers. Offensively, the Sixers actually had the patience to run their offense for a change and keep the Bulls slowed down most of the night. They also had a few true scoring leaders for a change, kind of surprising considering A.I sat the night out to be with his ill daughter. The big players on this night were, Iggy with 25 points, 8 assists, and 8 rebounds, Elton Brand with 26 and 9 rebounds, and Sammy D with 10 and 13 rebounds for another double-double. At least this time foor a change the Sixers actually used Sammy's good to play fuel the win, rather than wasting it in a loss.
Even with the win over the Bulls the Sixers at 17-31 overall are still 6.5 games out of 8th in the Eastern conference. So better luck next year fellas, but thanks for the effort tonight anyway. In addition to the Sixer's top 3 performers, Lou Williams and Willie Green also scored in double figures. It's taken over half the season for them to get it, but tonight was officially the Sixer's first overtime win of the season thus far. Who knows maybe it will finally help them turn the corner and make a surprise run to the playoffs. It still seems unlikey though that they'll go anywhere this season, whether they want to or not.
The Sixer's defense really was great tonight, especially in the 2nd half. Overall they held Chicago to just 44% shooting from field and 36% shooting from beyond, while outrebounding them 43-41, blocking 7 Bull' s shots(Elton Brand and Samuel Dalembert each had 3 ) and forcing 17 Bulls turnovers. Offensively, the Sixers actually had the patience to run their offense for a change and keep the Bulls slowed down most of the night. They also had a few true scoring leaders for a change, kind of surprising considering A.I sat the night out to be with his ill daughter. The big players on this night were, Iggy with 25 points, 8 assists, and 8 rebounds, Elton Brand with 26 and 9 rebounds, and Sammy D with 10 and 13 rebounds for another double-double. At least this time foor a change the Sixers actually used Sammy's good to play fuel the win, rather than wasting it in a loss.
Even with the win over the Bulls the Sixers at 17-31 overall are still 6.5 games out of 8th in the Eastern conference. So better luck next year fellas, but thanks for the effort tonight anyway. In addition to the Sixer's top 3 performers, Lou Williams and Willie Green also scored in double figures. It's taken over half the season for them to get it, but tonight was officially the Sixer's first overtime win of the season thus far. Who knows maybe it will finally help them turn the corner and make a surprise run to the playoffs. It still seems unlikey though that they'll go anywhere this season, whether they want to or not.
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers continued their road trip in Edmonton tonight against the lowly Oilers, who didn't have a single win in the month of Januay and had lost 11 in a row at one point before winningin their last game against the Hurricanes. Thus, for all intensive purposes this should have another Flyer's victory and 2 important points. In fact on the night the Orange and Black did out play the Oilers, even with Micheal Leighton starting in goal to give Ray Emery the night off. Just like in their last game the Flyer's were fairly dominant defensively, holding Edmonton to just 27 shots on goal, with Leighton saving 26 of them. Meanwhile, in about the 1st 2 and 1/2 periods all the scoring chances belonged to the Flyers as they got off 33 shots on goal. Unfortunately none of the 33 ever managed to get into the net. So despite the solid defense and goaltending, the Flyers just couldn't figure out a way to score and it cost them. Instead they found ways to waste one scoring chance after another, hitting the post, mishandling passes, skating right out of scoring chances and failing to put anything together on the power play.
It still looked like for the most part that the lack of scoring would not cost the Flyers a chance to at least get into overtime and earn a point. However, with a little under 2 minutes Darroll Powe was flagged for high sticking, to give Edmonton a power play for the remainder of regulation. The Flyer's did a pretty good killing off the penalty but on their last rush of the penalty Edmonton was just able to slip by the Flyers, particularly Mike Richards and feed ex-Flyer Ryan Potulny a perfect pass to slip the winning goal past a sprawling Leigthon. And so it happened with just 16 seconds left to put the Flyers behind 1 -0. The Flyers had time for one last rush into the Edmonton but it was too late and the Oilers were able to hang on for the improbable 1-0 win. So the up and down season continues for the Flyers. With the bottom of the Eastern conference playoff picture so tight, they really couldn't afford to lose this one against an inferior opponent, but they did and now they really can't afford to lose anymore. For now though they're still 6th in the East, but only 1 point up on 7th place Montreal at this point.
It still looked like for the most part that the lack of scoring would not cost the Flyers a chance to at least get into overtime and earn a point. However, with a little under 2 minutes Darroll Powe was flagged for high sticking, to give Edmonton a power play for the remainder of regulation. The Flyer's did a pretty good killing off the penalty but on their last rush of the penalty Edmonton was just able to slip by the Flyers, particularly Mike Richards and feed ex-Flyer Ryan Potulny a perfect pass to slip the winning goal past a sprawling Leigthon. And so it happened with just 16 seconds left to put the Flyers behind 1 -0. The Flyers had time for one last rush into the Edmonton but it was too late and the Oilers were able to hang on for the improbable 1-0 win. So the up and down season continues for the Flyers. With the bottom of the Eastern conference playoff picture so tight, they really couldn't afford to lose this one against an inferior opponent, but they did and now they really can't afford to lose anymore. For now though they're still 6th in the East, but only 1 point up on 7th place Montreal at this point.
Tuesday, February 02, 2010
EAGLES NEWS
The Birds made a few interesting personnel moves today. First they signed punter Durant Brooks to a 2 year deal, presumably to compete with incumbent Sav Rocca for the starting punter position. Considering Brooks has only averaged 39.6 yards per punt in his career it seems unlikely he would replace Rocca, who is capable of much more than that, but maybe just maybe he'll give Sav that little push he needs to get rid of all his inconsistencies and be the punter the Eagles know he can be.
A little later in the day it was announced that Dick Jauron, formerly the head coach of the Bills, last season, and the Bears before that, had been hired to be the Eagles new secondary coach. Outside of the 2001 season when he took the Bears to a 13-3 record and the playoffs(remember the Eagles beat them in the divisional playoffs that year) Jauron has mostly struggled as an NFL head coach. However, it has long been common knowledge that Jauron is one of the NFL's best defensive minds and he should be a big help to the Eagles now youthful secondary. Perhaps he'll even teach Asante Samuel how to press receivers and tackle, whenever he is told to, instead of whenever he feels like it. Furthermore he and Andy Reid used to be colleagues with the Packers under Mike Holmgren so Jauron should have no trouble fitting in with the rest of the Eagle's coaching staff
A little later in the day it was announced that Dick Jauron, formerly the head coach of the Bills, last season, and the Bears before that, had been hired to be the Eagles new secondary coach. Outside of the 2001 season when he took the Bears to a 13-3 record and the playoffs(remember the Eagles beat them in the divisional playoffs that year) Jauron has mostly struggled as an NFL head coach. However, it has long been common knowledge that Jauron is one of the NFL's best defensive minds and he should be a big help to the Eagles now youthful secondary. Perhaps he'll even teach Asante Samuel how to press receivers and tackle, whenever he is told to, instead of whenever he feels like it. Furthermore he and Andy Reid used to be colleagues with the Packers under Mike Holmgren so Jauron should have no trouble fitting in with the rest of the Eagle's coaching staff
Monday, February 01, 2010
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers began a long road trip tonight in Calgary against the new look Flames, in their first game following a trade that sent defenseman Dion Phaneuf to Toronto for 4 players. None of the new Flames made a difference tonight against the Orange and Black. The Flyer's were just too strong defensively for the struggling Flames, loser's of 10 in a row coming in. All night long they just seemed to be a step ahead of the Flames and other than one shorthanded opportunity Calgary really never had any decent scoring chances on the night. In fact overall, the Flames got off just 18 shots on goal and Ray Emery smothered every one of them. It was simply the most dominant defensive performance the Flyers have put forth in a long, long time.
They focused so much on their defense tonight, that the Flyer's almost forgot to score. It was not until 10 minutes into the 2nd period that Mike Richards finally put the Flyers on the board. Early in the 3rd period Claude Giroux scored for a 2-0 lead. Finally with a little over 2 minutes to play Richards slapped home a power play goal to put Calgary away for good 3-0. Sure it was against the Flames who haven't been very good this season, but the way the Flyer's played tonight it's doubtful anyone would have had success against them and you have to applaud them for that. If they can keep playing like this each and every night, they'll be tough for anyone to beat for the remainder of the season.
In his Flyer's debut, Lukas Krajicek had a solid night. He moved the puck around well and helped to keep things rolling on the offensive end of the ice, and on the other end he did well to disrupt numerous Flames scoring chances. He might be just what the doctored for the Flyers. With the win the Flyer's now have 59 points overall, which is currently good enough for 6th in the East, but only 3 points out of 9th in the East, so they'll need it keep it going if they want to stay safely in the Eastern conference playoff race.
They focused so much on their defense tonight, that the Flyer's almost forgot to score. It was not until 10 minutes into the 2nd period that Mike Richards finally put the Flyers on the board. Early in the 3rd period Claude Giroux scored for a 2-0 lead. Finally with a little over 2 minutes to play Richards slapped home a power play goal to put Calgary away for good 3-0. Sure it was against the Flames who haven't been very good this season, but the way the Flyer's played tonight it's doubtful anyone would have had success against them and you have to applaud them for that. If they can keep playing like this each and every night, they'll be tough for anyone to beat for the remainder of the season.
In his Flyer's debut, Lukas Krajicek had a solid night. He moved the puck around well and helped to keep things rolling on the offensive end of the ice, and on the other end he did well to disrupt numerous Flames scoring chances. He might be just what the doctored for the Flyers. With the win the Flyer's now have 59 points overall, which is currently good enough for 6th in the East, but only 3 points out of 9th in the East, so they'll need it keep it going if they want to stay safely in the Eastern conference playoff race.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers traveled to New Jersey tonight for matchup with the Nets, currently the worst team in the NBA with only 4 wins to their name. Thus, this should have been an easy win for the Sixers to snap their 3 game losing streak. They came out flat though and appeared to be coasting a little, as if they thought they didn't need to bring it to beat New Jersey. That almost cost them a 4th straight loss as the Nets jumped out early. Eddie Jordan had to resort to playing the bench for most of 2nd quarter just to wake the team up enough to pull within 2 by the half. They then built a nice lead in the 3rd quarter and led by 9 heading into the 4th quarter. However, they really should have been up by much more than that but couldn't shake the Lethargy they started the night with and it almost got them in the 4th quarter. New Jersey was able to rally within a score several times before the Sixers finally seemed to take control with a 6 point lead and 33 seconds left.
Then Yi Jianlian nailed a trey and Elton Brand missed two free throws on the other end to give New Jersey one more chance. Fortunately, they completely messed up their in bounds play with Jarvis Hayes throwing up a wild trey that had no chance. From there the Sixers finally made some free throws to put away the Nets 83-79. So in the end the Sixers didn't beat the Nets so much as the Nets beat themselves and when you need to hang on and hope the Nets make mistakes at the end of the game you've got problems. In fact the Sixers only shot 36% from the field, missed 11 free throws and got out rebounded by the worst rebounding team in the NBA. Yet they still won, which just goes to show how comically bad the Nets are this season. The Sixers can't expect to keep putting up numbers like that and lackluster efforts like this or they're not going to win too many more games this season.
In the loss Samuel Dalembert put up another double-double with 12 and 11 rebounds. That gives him 8 double-doubles in the Sixers last 14 games. The Sixers are just 6-8 over those 14 games , but sadly that's actually their hottest extended run of the season thus far. The Sixers are now 3-0 against the Nets this season, and that despite the Nets really outplaying them in all 3 games. New Jersey has had the Sixer's number this season, but they have been just inept enough to figure out a way to lose to the Sixers every time. So if nothing else at least the Sixers aren't as bad as the Nets. Things could actually be worse for them then 16-31 overall and a full 8 games out of the Eastern conference playoff picture.
Then Yi Jianlian nailed a trey and Elton Brand missed two free throws on the other end to give New Jersey one more chance. Fortunately, they completely messed up their in bounds play with Jarvis Hayes throwing up a wild trey that had no chance. From there the Sixers finally made some free throws to put away the Nets 83-79. So in the end the Sixers didn't beat the Nets so much as the Nets beat themselves and when you need to hang on and hope the Nets make mistakes at the end of the game you've got problems. In fact the Sixers only shot 36% from the field, missed 11 free throws and got out rebounded by the worst rebounding team in the NBA. Yet they still won, which just goes to show how comically bad the Nets are this season. The Sixers can't expect to keep putting up numbers like that and lackluster efforts like this or they're not going to win too many more games this season.
In the loss Samuel Dalembert put up another double-double with 12 and 11 rebounds. That gives him 8 double-doubles in the Sixers last 14 games. The Sixers are just 6-8 over those 14 games , but sadly that's actually their hottest extended run of the season thus far. The Sixers are now 3-0 against the Nets this season, and that despite the Nets really outplaying them in all 3 games. New Jersey has had the Sixer's number this season, but they have been just inept enough to figure out a way to lose to the Sixers every time. So if nothing else at least the Sixers aren't as bad as the Nets. Things could actually be worse for them then 16-31 overall and a full 8 games out of the Eastern conference playoff picture.
EAGLES NEWS
The pro bowl was tonight in Miami and unfortunately there were several Eagles playing in the game instead of taking the night off to prepare for the super bowl. Anyway despite the best efforts of multiple Eagles, the NFC lost to the AFC 41-34. Had the NFC won Desean Jackson would likely have been MVP with 6 catches for 101 yards and 2 TDs. Donovan Mcnabb connected with Jackson for the 2nd of those TDs, a primetime 58 yard reception. Other than that Mcnabb was not too effective, completing just 3 of 10 passes for 78 yards and rushing 4 times for 26 yards. Even in the pro bowl, with the best o-lineman and running backs in the conference, Mcnabb didn't get much help from the running and often had little time to throw. Go figure. Rounding out the Eagles on offense, fullback Leonard Weaver did almost nothing with 0 carries and 0 receptions, but he did have 1 tackle on special teams. Continuing with special teams David Akers was a perfect 2 for 2 on field goals and 4 for 4 on extra points. Jackson also returned 1 punt for 8 yards. Finally on defense, Trent Cole had 1 tackle, Quintin Mikell had a pair of tackles and Asante Samuel had an interception, but as usual, somehow avoided having to tackle anyone. So all in all, despite the loss, it was mostly a good night for the Eagles' pro bowlers.
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers added defenseman Lukas Krajicek to their roster today for only about 700,000, and that's all they really could have afforded to with their limited cap space. With Ryan Parent on long term injury and now his replacement Danny Svyret also on long term injury the Flyers had to add someone with experience to their roster to fill in as their 7th defenseman. Considering that's all the Orange and Black are asking of him, it's hard to expect too much from Krajicek. However, he is supposed to have quick feet and soft hands with the ability to contribute on both ends of the ice. So who knows maybe he'll end being a pretty good acquisition for the Flyers and a real steal this late in the season.
Saturday, January 30, 2010
FLYERS NEWS
After back to back heartbreaking losses the Flyer's desperately needed to turn things around this afternoon against the New York Islanders. Coming in the Flyers were 7th in the Eastern conference just a point ahead of the Islanders. So the Orange and Black had to win this one or risk losing their playoff seeding to the Isles. Fortunately, they came out firing and just 8 minutes into the 1st period Danny Briere scored for a 1-0 lead. Later with just under 3 minutes to play in the period, Scott Hartnell scored off the power play for a 2-0 lead. With a little under 6 minutes to play in the 3rd period the Flyer's seemingly made it 3-0, but Scott Hartnell was flagged for a bogus goaltender interference call to negate the score. Replays clearly showed the puck in the net before Hartnell ever came in contact with Islander's goalie, Dwayne Roloson. Moreover, the contact between Hartnell and Roloson appeared to be incidental, so one way or another the goal should have counted. Instead the Isles went on the power play and scored to cut the lead to 2-1.
Fortunately, from there the Flyer's defense stiffened up holding the Isles to just 10 shots on goal in the 3rd period. Ray Emery saved all of them to cap off a 31 save day, and thwart any thoughts of an Islander comeback, preserving a 2-1 Orange and Black victory. Emery wasn't perfect as he continued to struggle to handle rebounds, but he got the job done. As did the Flyers as they move to 27-23 overall for 57 points and 6th in the Eastern conference. Not bad, for a team that was struggling so mightily earlier this season. Now if only they can keep it going for a while
Fortunately, from there the Flyer's defense stiffened up holding the Isles to just 10 shots on goal in the 3rd period. Ray Emery saved all of them to cap off a 31 save day, and thwart any thoughts of an Islander comeback, preserving a 2-1 Orange and Black victory. Emery wasn't perfect as he continued to struggle to handle rebounds, but he got the job done. As did the Flyers as they move to 27-23 overall for 57 points and 6th in the Eastern conference. Not bad, for a team that was struggling so mightily earlier this season. Now if only they can keep it going for a while
EAGLES NEWS
The Eagles lost a member of the family today after Tom Brookshier succumbed to Cancer. Brookshier was an all-pro CB for the Eagles in the 50 and 60s, and was a key member of the 1960 Eagles, still the last Bird's team to be crowned NFL champions. Unfortunately, he broke his leg late in the 1961 season, ruining the Eagle's hopes of repeating and bringing his storied career to an end, following an unsuccessful comeback attempt in 1962. He then became the first ex-player to enter the broadcast booth, as he teamed with Bill Campbell to do radio play by play for Eagle's games. From there he was eventually hired by CBS in 1970s, as Pat Summerall's original color man, before John Madden came along a decade later, and together they broadcast all the big games on CBS, including a few super bowls. So for years he was a ubiquitous presence among all NFL fans and well liked. After retiring from CBS he came back to Philly and helped to begin the 610 sports radio morning show where he remained a host along side Angelo Cataldi until entering retirement. He was ultimately, a Philly icon both for what he did on the field and his many contributions off it as a broadcaster and a human being and will be sorely missed by all. He was 78 years old.
Friday, January 29, 2010
SIXERS NEWS
Fresh off back to back losses to sub par teams the Sixer's welcomed Kobe Bryant and the Western Conference leading L.A Lakers to the Wachovia center tonight. While the Sixers probably should have won their last couple games, there only chance tonight was for the Lakers to try to coast through this one. The Laker's did coast most of the night, and the Sixers were thus able to stay with them for most of the night, but it didn't matter. With all the talent L.A has these days they are one of the few teams that is good enough to coast some nights and still win easily. Tonight was no exception. The Sixers only trailed by one after the 1st quarter, but L.A turned on the intensity in the 2nd quarter take a 9 point lead into the half. In the 3rd quarter a red hot AI, in a entertaining duel with Kobe, managed to rally the Sixers to within 3, but again L.A turned up intensity just enough to finish the quarter ahead by 9. In the 4th quarter L.A coasted again but at that point the Sixers had already wasted all of their energy rallying back in the 3rd quarter, so the Lakers easily went on to win 99-91.
There's not much you can say about this one. The Sixer's were just thoroughly outclassed by L.A on this night. It really wasn't as close as the final score would indicate. It was close only because as usual the Lakers didn't put forth a full effort. The Sixers on other hand had to put in a strong effort to just to lose by 9. Offensively, AI had 23 to lead the way, Elton Brand had 19 and 9 rebounds, Sammy Dalembert had 10 and 12 rebounds, and Thad Young added 10 off the bench. Defensively, the Sixers, who are really the smaller of the two teams, actually outrebounded L.A pretty handily, 44 - 36, and held them to just 20% shooting from beyond the arc. None of that effort mattered in the end though which really shows the disparity in talent between these two teams.
This was the Sixers 3rd loss in a row. While they've only won 3 in a row a handful of times this season, they've lost 3 in a row more times than I count this season. Thus, it's no surprise that they currently have the 2nd worst record in the Eastern conference at 15-31 overall. This could be the beginning of long rest of the season for the Sixers. NBA Draft lottery here we come.
There's not much you can say about this one. The Sixer's were just thoroughly outclassed by L.A on this night. It really wasn't as close as the final score would indicate. It was close only because as usual the Lakers didn't put forth a full effort. The Sixers on other hand had to put in a strong effort to just to lose by 9. Offensively, AI had 23 to lead the way, Elton Brand had 19 and 9 rebounds, Sammy Dalembert had 10 and 12 rebounds, and Thad Young added 10 off the bench. Defensively, the Sixers, who are really the smaller of the two teams, actually outrebounded L.A pretty handily, 44 - 36, and held them to just 20% shooting from beyond the arc. None of that effort mattered in the end though which really shows the disparity in talent between these two teams.
This was the Sixers 3rd loss in a row. While they've only won 3 in a row a handful of times this season, they've lost 3 in a row more times than I count this season. Thus, it's no surprise that they currently have the 2nd worst record in the Eastern conference at 15-31 overall. This could be the beginning of long rest of the season for the Sixers. NBA Draft lottery here we come.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
FLYERS NEWS
After a heartbreaking loss to the Penguins in their last game the Flyer's welcomed the Atlanta Thrashers to Wachovia center tonight as they looked to get back on the winning track. Atlanta actually won the last time these two teams met, but before that the Flyers had beaten the Thrashers in 14 straight contests, so you would think tonight would be just another check in the win column for the Orange and Black. Think again. Instead it was an up and down night for the Flyers which only allowed them to encounter more heartbreak. They fell behind early 1-0 in a sluggish 1st period. They owned the 2nd period though with Claude Giroux scoring a dazzling unassisted tally early in the period and Dan Carcillo and Aaron Asham scoring on breakaways late in the period.
So headed into the 3rd period the Orange and Black led 3-1 and all seemed well. Unfortunately, the good feelings didn't last too long. Just 29 seconds into the 3rd Ilya Kovalchuck raced into the Flyer's zone all alone off a faceoff and slapped one by Ray Emery to cut it to 3-2. 4 minutes later Rich Beverley rumbled into the Flyer's zone again all alone on a breakaway and gunned a slapshot past Emery to tie it up at 3. Finally with a little under 7 minutes to play Jim Slater completed the heartbreak scoring off yet another largely uncontested Thrasher breakaway, to put Atlanta ahead 4-3. The Flyer's had plenty of time from there to tie it up again and at least earn 1 point by pushing the game to overtime. Apparently they were just a little too shell shocked and thanks to a goaltender interference call on Danny Briere they spent 2 of the final 3 minutes on the penalty kill, essentially ruining any comeback hopes they still had at the time.
So for the 2nd time in as many games the Flyer's defense broke down late in the game for a loss, but this one hurts even more, for the Flyer's truly had victory in their grasp on this night. In fact coming in they were unbeaten this season when leading after 2 periods. Going by the stat sheet, they also played a pretty complete game in this one, throwing 37 shots on goal while allotting Atlanta just 28 shots on goal, of which Emery saved 24 while helping his teammates kill off all 4 Thrasher's power plays on the night. Sometimes it is just not your night though, and tonight just wasn't meant to be for the Orange and Black for whatever reason. If nothing else though the Flyers are still at least 7th in the Eastern conference at the moment, but they'll have to stop this losing streak right now if they want to stay there.
So headed into the 3rd period the Orange and Black led 3-1 and all seemed well. Unfortunately, the good feelings didn't last too long. Just 29 seconds into the 3rd Ilya Kovalchuck raced into the Flyer's zone all alone off a faceoff and slapped one by Ray Emery to cut it to 3-2. 4 minutes later Rich Beverley rumbled into the Flyer's zone again all alone on a breakaway and gunned a slapshot past Emery to tie it up at 3. Finally with a little under 7 minutes to play Jim Slater completed the heartbreak scoring off yet another largely uncontested Thrasher breakaway, to put Atlanta ahead 4-3. The Flyer's had plenty of time from there to tie it up again and at least earn 1 point by pushing the game to overtime. Apparently they were just a little too shell shocked and thanks to a goaltender interference call on Danny Briere they spent 2 of the final 3 minutes on the penalty kill, essentially ruining any comeback hopes they still had at the time.
So for the 2nd time in as many games the Flyer's defense broke down late in the game for a loss, but this one hurts even more, for the Flyer's truly had victory in their grasp on this night. In fact coming in they were unbeaten this season when leading after 2 periods. Going by the stat sheet, they also played a pretty complete game in this one, throwing 37 shots on goal while allotting Atlanta just 28 shots on goal, of which Emery saved 24 while helping his teammates kill off all 4 Thrasher's power plays on the night. Sometimes it is just not your night though, and tonight just wasn't meant to be for the Orange and Black for whatever reason. If nothing else though the Flyers are still at least 7th in the Eastern conference at the moment, but they'll have to stop this losing streak right now if they want to stay there.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixer's traveled to Milwaukee tonight for a matchup with the Bucks as they looked to get back in the winner's column, following that tough loss to the Pacers in their last game. The last time these two teams met the Sixer's got the win, as part of a run of 6 straight wins over Milwaukee. There was no reason tonight couldn't be their 7th in a row, but they would have to bring the defense with them that had won them 2 of their last 3. Unfortunately, while they did bring the D, holding the Bucks to just 43% shooting from the field and outrebounding them 51-35, they also brought along a bunch of sloppy mistakes with them as well and it cost them. In the 1st half alone they turned the ball over 11 times, turning what should have been a halftime lead into a 2 point halftime deficit. They then cleaned up a bit in the 2nd half with only another 6 turnovers, but went cold from the field, particularly beyond the arc, where they hit just 2-14(that's 14% shooting from beyond).
Thus, Milwaukee was able to stay ahead going into the 4th quarter and with the Sixers' missing one three pointer after another, and unable to find any consistent enough scoring, they hung on to win a close one, 91-88. As usual the Sixer's just couldn't hit the baskets at the end when they needed to and no one really stepped up to do so. In fact the Sixers had only 2 players score in double figures on the night. Elton Brand had 26 and 10 rebounds and Thad Young had 14 off the bench, but other than that there wasn't much to celebrate for the Sixer's scoring wise. So while a little defense can go a long way it is not always enough. You have to be able to put some points at times too.
Looking at the final score you can see that if the Sixers had hit just 2 more of the 14 three pointers they took they would have won. The Sixer's are not known for their 3 point shooting, but even for them 2 out of 14 is pretty bad and they'll have to improve that number if they want to get a few more wins this season. Currently with the loss, the Sixers are just 16-30 overall. That's right they have already lost 30 games this season and it isn't even the all-star break yet. Aren't you proud of them? Anyway, at this point the Sixers are now 7.5 games out of 8th in the East so the playoffs may finally be out of reach now, as if they weren't already.
Thus, Milwaukee was able to stay ahead going into the 4th quarter and with the Sixers' missing one three pointer after another, and unable to find any consistent enough scoring, they hung on to win a close one, 91-88. As usual the Sixer's just couldn't hit the baskets at the end when they needed to and no one really stepped up to do so. In fact the Sixers had only 2 players score in double figures on the night. Elton Brand had 26 and 10 rebounds and Thad Young had 14 off the bench, but other than that there wasn't much to celebrate for the Sixer's scoring wise. So while a little defense can go a long way it is not always enough. You have to be able to put some points at times too.
Looking at the final score you can see that if the Sixers had hit just 2 more of the 14 three pointers they took they would have won. The Sixer's are not known for their 3 point shooting, but even for them 2 out of 14 is pretty bad and they'll have to improve that number if they want to get a few more wins this season. Currently with the loss, the Sixers are just 16-30 overall. That's right they have already lost 30 games this season and it isn't even the all-star break yet. Aren't you proud of them? Anyway, at this point the Sixers are now 7.5 games out of 8th in the East so the playoffs may finally be out of reach now, as if they weren't already.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Monday, January 25, 2010
SIXERS NEWS
After handling them fairly easily on the road a couple days ago the Sixers welcomed the Indiana Pacers to the Wachovia center tonight with thoughts of knocking them off for the 2nd time in as many games. Unfortunately, the defense that carried them through that game wasn't there tonight. In short the Sixers just couldn't stop Indiana when they needed to and that was the difference tonight. Indiana shot over 51% from the field and a solid 36% from beyond the arc with 8 threes, the kind of numbers that are usually good enough to win you most games. The Sixers didn't make it easy for Indiana though. As late as the final 2 minutes of the game the Sixers were within striking distance of the Pacers.
Then Dahntay Jones, known more for being a defensive stopper, heated up from the field, hitting a bunch of crucial shots down the stretch to extend the Pacer's lead and put away the Sixers. By the end he had 18 points, and the Pacers had won easily 109-98. Ultimatelly it was once again Sixer's defense that proved to be the deciding factor for them tonight, but for all the wrong reasons. The Sixer's scoring didn't help them all that much tonight either with Andre Iguodala's 22 leading just 4 Sixers in double figures. AI had 20, Elton Brand chipped in with 12, and Lou Williams poured in 16 off the bench but that was it as Thad Young and Mo Speights both dropped off a bit, combing for just 12 and 5 rebounds.
If the Sixers had won tonight it would have been their 3rd win in a row, and only about the 5th time this season that they won 3 in a row. Moreover, they have yet to win more than 3 in a row at any point thus far this season, not exactly a formula for a playoff team. At just 16-29 overall now, the playoffs seem a long way away for the Sixers at this point anyway, but you never know.
Then Dahntay Jones, known more for being a defensive stopper, heated up from the field, hitting a bunch of crucial shots down the stretch to extend the Pacer's lead and put away the Sixers. By the end he had 18 points, and the Pacers had won easily 109-98. Ultimatelly it was once again Sixer's defense that proved to be the deciding factor for them tonight, but for all the wrong reasons. The Sixer's scoring didn't help them all that much tonight either with Andre Iguodala's 22 leading just 4 Sixers in double figures. AI had 20, Elton Brand chipped in with 12, and Lou Williams poured in 16 off the bench but that was it as Thad Young and Mo Speights both dropped off a bit, combing for just 12 and 5 rebounds.
If the Sixers had won tonight it would have been their 3rd win in a row, and only about the 5th time this season that they won 3 in a row. Moreover, they have yet to win more than 3 in a row at any point thus far this season, not exactly a formula for a playoff team. At just 16-29 overall now, the playoffs seem a long way away for the Sixers at this point anyway, but you never know.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers and the Pens faced off today in a huge game at the Wachovia center. The last time these two teams met the Flyers got the win in Pittsburgh despite a controversial call that took a goal away from Simon Gagne. This afternoon another controversial call took a goal away from the Flyers. Unfortunately the Orange and Black weren't so lucky on this afternoon. Ahead 1-0 on a power play goal by Jeff Carter, the Flyer's looked to be headed to a 2-0 lead with a little over 6:30 left in 1st period on a Mike Richards score. Instead the goal was waved off because Simon Gagne was called for high sticking and roughing Evgeni Malkin, apparently before the goal was scored.
Replays showed though, that Gagne neither high-sticked nor roughed Malkin at all. Moreover, the officials whistles did not blow until after Richards had scored. So one way or another his goal should have counted. Instead it was taken away and Pittsburgh was given a power play on which Sergei Gonchar scored the game tying goal. Thanks to the play of Ray Emery, who racked up 20 saves, it stayed tied at 1 until deep in the 3rd period with a little less than 2 minutes to play. The officials then went against the Flyers again calling Kimmo Timonen for a delay of game after he desperately knocked the puck into the stands just inside the Flyers' zone, as the Pens were threatening to score. Once again given the opportunity they needed Pittsburgh capitalized with Matt Cooke scoring the power play goal that would seal the 2-1 Pens win.
Don't you just love NHL officiating? I know I don't. Anway as much the officials hurt the Flyers today, they hurt themselves with a lot of missed opportunities. In fact they were on the power play 9 times but could score only on the 1st one. You just can't let that many chances slip away and expect to win. Not if you are the Flyer's with the way things have gone this season. Anyway despite the loss the Flyers remain 6th in the East and in prime position for a playoff berth.
Replays showed though, that Gagne neither high-sticked nor roughed Malkin at all. Moreover, the officials whistles did not blow until after Richards had scored. So one way or another his goal should have counted. Instead it was taken away and Pittsburgh was given a power play on which Sergei Gonchar scored the game tying goal. Thanks to the play of Ray Emery, who racked up 20 saves, it stayed tied at 1 until deep in the 3rd period with a little less than 2 minutes to play. The officials then went against the Flyers again calling Kimmo Timonen for a delay of game after he desperately knocked the puck into the stands just inside the Flyers' zone, as the Pens were threatening to score. Once again given the opportunity they needed Pittsburgh capitalized with Matt Cooke scoring the power play goal that would seal the 2-1 Pens win.
Don't you just love NHL officiating? I know I don't. Anway as much the officials hurt the Flyers today, they hurt themselves with a lot of missed opportunities. In fact they were on the power play 9 times but could score only on the 1st one. You just can't let that many chances slip away and expect to win. Not if you are the Flyer's with the way things have gone this season. Anyway despite the loss the Flyers remain 6th in the East and in prime position for a playoff berth.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils avoided arbitration with their 4th and final arbitration eligible player today as they agreed to a 3 year $9 million deal with Carlos Ruiz. So at this point all of the Phils championship pieces are secured through 2011 except for right fielder Jayson Werth who will be a free agent after the 2010 season. Hopefully the Phils will be able to figure out a way to bring him back but we'll see.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
FLYERS NEWS
With a huge game looming againt the Pittsburgh Penguins tomorrow afternoon it was important that the Flyers get a win today at home against the lowly Carolina Hurricanes. It turned out to be a tougher game then it probably should have been with the Flyer's defense playing a bit lazy, but 33 saves by Ray Emery were enough to hold off the Canes. Perhaps they were looking past the Canes to tomorrow or maybe Carolina just brought their A game for one of the rare times this season. For whatever reason the Flyers just seemed a little lax out there this afternoon but a win is a win so I digress.
Anyway, Dan Carcillo got the Flyers going early, scoring just 3 minutes into the 1st period for a 1-0 lead. Late in the 2nd period Chris Pronger scored on the power play and Jeff Carter slammed one home a minute later to push the Orange and Black to a 3-1 lead heading into the 3rd period. After ex-Flyer Rod Brindamour scored off the power play to cut the lead to 3-2 Carter scored in the Canes empty net in the final seconds to put away the 4-2 Flyer's win.
With the win the Flyers move to 26-22-3 overall for 55 points, good enough right now for 6th in the Eastern conference. They were way ahead of the Flyers early on in the season,but as of now the Pens are only 8 points ahead of the Orange and the Black. Thus, a win tomorrow would pull the Flyers within 6 points of Pens and boost their still slim hopes of catching of them for what would now be 4th in the Eastern conference and home ice advantage for the 1st round of the playoffs. Of course all of that is a long way off, but hey I can dream can't I.
Anyway, Dan Carcillo got the Flyers going early, scoring just 3 minutes into the 1st period for a 1-0 lead. Late in the 2nd period Chris Pronger scored on the power play and Jeff Carter slammed one home a minute later to push the Orange and Black to a 3-1 lead heading into the 3rd period. After ex-Flyer Rod Brindamour scored off the power play to cut the lead to 3-2 Carter scored in the Canes empty net in the final seconds to put away the 4-2 Flyer's win.
With the win the Flyers move to 26-22-3 overall for 55 points, good enough right now for 6th in the Eastern conference. They were way ahead of the Flyers early on in the season,but as of now the Pens are only 8 points ahead of the Orange and the Black. Thus, a win tomorrow would pull the Flyers within 6 points of Pens and boost their still slim hopes of catching of them for what would now be 4th in the Eastern conference and home ice advantage for the 1st round of the playoffs. Of course all of that is a long way off, but hey I can dream can't I.
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers traveled to Indianapolis tonight for a matchup with the Indiana Pacers. The Pacers had been struggling as of late, and were only a half a game ahead of the Sixers in the Eastern conference standings coming in, so this was a real opportunity for them to string together their 2nd win in a row and move up in standings. True to his word Eddie Jordan stuck to the same lineup and once again the defense was solid even though Jrue Holiday got hit in the head early in the game and had to leave the court for a while. As soon as he came back in the 2nd quarter the D picked up again and the Sixers were up and running to a 7 point lead at the half. In the 3rd quarter they extended that lead to 13 and in the4th quarter they held off a few late charges by the Pacers to hang on for a solid 107-97 win.
The defense really has made all the difference for the Sixers these last 2 nights. Last night they locked down Dirk. Tonight they outrebounded Indiana 52-44 and forced 21 Pacer's
turnovers which led to 25+ Sixer's points. The Sixer's scoring was pretty good tonight too with 5 player's scoring in double figures. Elton Brand led the way with 23, AI, who will be starting for the Eastern Conference in the upcoming NBA all-star game, posted 17, Willie Green added 10 and Lou Williams and Thad Young were strong off the bench with 14 and 22 and 10 rebounds, respectively. So the Sixers really played a complete game tonight which is something they haven't done much of this season. Hopefully they can keep it up.
The Sixer's shot 63% from beyond the arc tonight with 7 threes. Not bad considering their best 3 point shooter, Jason Kapono, never got into the game. After getting hit in the head, well actually the face to be exact, Holiday needed 22 stitches above his eye before returning to the court. He actually looked unfazed by the whole thing though, which is a good sign of toughness, especially for a rookie. At 15-28 overall now, the Sixers leapfrog over the Agent-Zeroless Wizards and Pacers into 12th in the Eastern conference, still 5.5 out of 8th.
The defense really has made all the difference for the Sixers these last 2 nights. Last night they locked down Dirk. Tonight they outrebounded Indiana 52-44 and forced 21 Pacer's
turnovers which led to 25+ Sixer's points. The Sixer's scoring was pretty good tonight too with 5 player's scoring in double figures. Elton Brand led the way with 23, AI, who will be starting for the Eastern Conference in the upcoming NBA all-star game, posted 17, Willie Green added 10 and Lou Williams and Thad Young were strong off the bench with 14 and 22 and 10 rebounds, respectively. So the Sixers really played a complete game tonight which is something they haven't done much of this season. Hopefully they can keep it up.
The Sixer's shot 63% from beyond the arc tonight with 7 threes. Not bad considering their best 3 point shooter, Jason Kapono, never got into the game. After getting hit in the head, well actually the face to be exact, Holiday needed 22 stitches above his eye before returning to the court. He actually looked unfazed by the whole thing though, which is a good sign of toughness, especially for a rookie. At 15-28 overall now, the Sixers leapfrog over the Agent-Zeroless Wizards and Pacers into 12th in the Eastern conference, still 5.5 out of 8th.
Friday, January 22, 2010
SIXERS NEWS
When you are 13-28 at the halfway point of the season, something is obviously not working. A piece of the puzzle is out of place somewhere, or you're missing something. Eddie Jordan decided to move some pieces around tonight, inserting Elton Brand and Jrue Holiday into the starting lineup in place of Lou Williams and Thad Young and ultimately the move payed off. With the pressure of starting removed form their shoulders Young and Williams both performed well. Young was actually the leading scorer in the game with 22 points and Williams brought a little energy everywhere with 11 points, 5 assists, and 6 rebounds. Meanwhile, Brand who also put up 10 points, and Holiday helped lock up the Mavs vaunted scorers, holding them to just 81 on only 39% shooting from the field. Moreover, the Mavs shot just 20% from beyond the arc, with 3 threes, and Dirk Nowitzki only put up 15 points. You just can't player defense against the Mavs then that.
Thanks to the sterling defense the Sixers were able to take a 6 point, 54-48 lead into the half. In 3rd quarter that saw the Mavs held to 12 points, they were abel up the lead to 12. Finally in the 4th quarter they held off all attempts by the Mavs to make a late charge and hung on to win 92-81. Isn't funny how a little D goes a long way sometimes. Of course there also a decent amount of O as well, with AI and Mo Speights also scoring in double figures, but as they say, its the defense that wins you championships and in this case games. Eddie Jordan says he'll stick to this lineup until the all-star break and the Sixers need to stick to this D not just to the all-star break but for the remainder of the season if they still hope to make the playoffs and do anything significant this season.
With this win the Sixers, now 14-28, are a perfect 5-0 when they hold their opponents under 90 points. Samuel Dalembert's double double streak ended tonight as he compiled just 4 points and 10 rebounds. It's still remarkable though that he was able to put together that streak in the wake of the devastation in his homeland. Currently the Sixers sit 5.5 games out of 8th in the Eastern conference so there is still a slim hope for them to make the playoffs, but they're going to have to put together some kind of run at some point. So far they haven't proven they can do so but I guess we'll see.
Thanks to the sterling defense the Sixers were able to take a 6 point, 54-48 lead into the half. In 3rd quarter that saw the Mavs held to 12 points, they were abel up the lead to 12. Finally in the 4th quarter they held off all attempts by the Mavs to make a late charge and hung on to win 92-81. Isn't funny how a little D goes a long way sometimes. Of course there also a decent amount of O as well, with AI and Mo Speights also scoring in double figures, but as they say, its the defense that wins you championships and in this case games. Eddie Jordan says he'll stick to this lineup until the all-star break and the Sixers need to stick to this D not just to the all-star break but for the remainder of the season if they still hope to make the playoffs and do anything significant this season.
With this win the Sixers, now 14-28, are a perfect 5-0 when they hold their opponents under 90 points. Samuel Dalembert's double double streak ended tonight as he compiled just 4 points and 10 rebounds. It's still remarkable though that he was able to put together that streak in the wake of the devastation in his homeland. Currently the Sixers sit 5.5 games out of 8th in the Eastern conference so there is still a slim hope for them to make the playoffs, but they're going to have to put together some kind of run at some point. So far they haven't proven they can do so but I guess we'll see.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils were busy today. First they locked up Shane Victorino for 3 years and $22 million, which means only Carlos Ruiz remains in danger of arbitration. Then they signed pitcher Jose Contreras to a 1 year deal close a million but under it. Contreras struggled last season as starter for the White Sox last season with a 5-13 record and a 5.42 ERA. He was then traded to the Colorado Rockies at the end of season and there, primarily as a reliever he was lights out with a 1.92 ERA. He was so good in fact that Colorado put him on the playoff roster. So while he probably won't start for the Phils, he should definitely be strong arm to have out of the bullpen, which can go to 2-3 innings like Chan Ho Park last season. As for Victorino, well you don't need me to tell you why the best centerfielder in the NL will be in red pinstripes for the next 3 seasons.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
FLYERS NEWS
It was fight night at the Wachovia center between the Flyers and the stinkin New York Rangers tonight. All together the 2 teams started 4 fights on the ice at various times in the game. The Flyers won the first couple of fights and the early rounds then hung on points wise, for the unanimous decision. At least it felt like that's what happened with all the fighting out there, but actually the night really belonged to Ray Emery and the Flyer's defense. The defense held the Rangers to just 24 shots on goal and allowed them just 3 power play opportunities, killing off all 3 of them without any real threat from the Rangers. With the help of that D, Ray Emery, in his 3rd game back from injury, finally seemed to rediscover the elite form he showed for the Orange and Black earlier this season before the injuries crept in.
He saved all 24 shots the Rangers threw at him for his 3rd shutout this season. That proved to be huge for the Flyers on this night, as Henrick Lundqvist mostly kept them off the board as well. However, James Van Reimsdyk did find a way to score on breakaway off a perfect pass from Chris Pronger, and Mike Richards added a power play goal in the 2nd period, just enough offense to give the Flyers's the win. So all in all it was tough, scrappy and literally, hard fought, peformance for the Orange and Black in this one. Basically, it was the kind of effort you'd like to see out of them every night, and the kind of effort they'll need every night from here on out if they still hope to grab a playoff spot in the Eastern conference. Currently with 2 straight 2 wins and 53 points overall, the Flyers are still 1 point out of 8th and final playoff spot in the Eastern conference.
As Mike Richards goes so go the Flyers. After tonight the Flyers are 12-3 overall when Richards scores a goal, and just 10-24 when he doesn't. Considering he's the team captain that's probably the way it should be. Essentially from here on out if they are to make the playoffs, the Flyers will need strong efforts every night from their D and from Richards. I think they can get them.
He saved all 24 shots the Rangers threw at him for his 3rd shutout this season. That proved to be huge for the Flyers on this night, as Henrick Lundqvist mostly kept them off the board as well. However, James Van Reimsdyk did find a way to score on breakaway off a perfect pass from Chris Pronger, and Mike Richards added a power play goal in the 2nd period, just enough offense to give the Flyers's the win. So all in all it was tough, scrappy and literally, hard fought, peformance for the Orange and Black in this one. Basically, it was the kind of effort you'd like to see out of them every night, and the kind of effort they'll need every night from here on out if they still hope to grab a playoff spot in the Eastern conference. Currently with 2 straight 2 wins and 53 points overall, the Flyers are still 1 point out of 8th and final playoff spot in the Eastern conference.
As Mike Richards goes so go the Flyers. After tonight the Flyers are 12-3 overall when Richards scores a goal, and just 10-24 when he doesn't. Considering he's the team captain that's probably the way it should be. Essentially from here on out if they are to make the playoffs, the Flyers will need strong efforts every night from their D and from Richards. I think they can get them.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils continued to deal with their arbitration eligible players today, signing Joe Blanton to a 3 year deal. So the Phils won't be looking for a new #3 starter anytime soon. This leaves only Shane Victorino and Carlos Ruiz still in danger of going to arbitration
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
SIXERS NEWS
They blew a 20 point lead against the 2nd worst team in the NBA in their last game so things couldn't possibly get worse for the Sixers tonight at the Wachovia center. In fact their opponents, the Portland Trail Blazers, were a team the Sixers had beaten 3 straight times coming in. Thus, things would definitely be better for the Sixers in this game right? Not so fast. In his first trip back to the Wachovia center since the Sixers let him go in the offseason, Andre Miller torched his old mates, mostly in the 2nd half, for 24 points to lead the Blazer's to the win. The Sixers kept it close most of night, but as usual they faltered late in the game. Elton Brand drained an 11 ft jumper to cut the Portland lead to 92-90 with 59 seconds to play, but that was as close as the Sixers would get. Portland hit 6 straight free throws and the Sixers missed a pair of 3 pointers in final 50 seconds to wrap up the 98-90 TrailBlazer's triumph.
Offensively, 5 Sixers scored in double figures, with Andre Iguodala's 23 leading the way. However, the Sixer's only shot 43% from the field with just 4 threes, and thus could only come up with 90 points. Still, any team with reasonable defensive talent should be able to win with 90 points on the board. For a half the Sixer's D was more than reasonable, in fact near excellent. Unfortunately, late in the game, where they needed the D to be staut the most, it broke down and allowed far too many easy drives to the basket for the Blazers. So Defensively, it was an ugly finish to the game for Sixers and they're not going to win a whole lot playing like that down stretch in games.
Sammy Dalembert racked up 10 points and 15 rebounds on the night for his 4th consecutive double double and that after just barely making it to the game on time. He had been on a 2 day goodwill mission in Haiti, but he rushed back to Philly tonight, arriving just a few minutes before tipoff and nevertheless got the start at center. Again I just marvel at the focus he has had out there on court for the last week or so. Tonight marked the halfway point of the season for the Sixers. At just 13-28 overall, the Sixer's had a first of half of the season to forget and were lucky to avoid hitting the 30 loss mark before the start of the season's 2nd half. It's hard to believe the Sixer's could possibly get any worse in the season's 2nd half. On the other hand it's also hard to say that the 2nd half of the season will really be all much better for Sixers either.
Offensively, 5 Sixers scored in double figures, with Andre Iguodala's 23 leading the way. However, the Sixer's only shot 43% from the field with just 4 threes, and thus could only come up with 90 points. Still, any team with reasonable defensive talent should be able to win with 90 points on the board. For a half the Sixer's D was more than reasonable, in fact near excellent. Unfortunately, late in the game, where they needed the D to be staut the most, it broke down and allowed far too many easy drives to the basket for the Blazers. So Defensively, it was an ugly finish to the game for Sixers and they're not going to win a whole lot playing like that down stretch in games.
Sammy Dalembert racked up 10 points and 15 rebounds on the night for his 4th consecutive double double and that after just barely making it to the game on time. He had been on a 2 day goodwill mission in Haiti, but he rushed back to Philly tonight, arriving just a few minutes before tipoff and nevertheless got the start at center. Again I just marvel at the focus he has had out there on court for the last week or so. Tonight marked the halfway point of the season for the Sixers. At just 13-28 overall, the Sixer's had a first of half of the season to forget and were lucky to avoid hitting the 30 loss mark before the start of the season's 2nd half. It's hard to believe the Sixer's could possibly get any worse in the season's 2nd half. On the other hand it's also hard to say that the 2nd half of the season will really be all much better for Sixers either.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
FLYERS NEWS
After a couple of rough road losses, the Flyers returned to the Wachovia center tonight, desperately needing a win to get back on track, as they began a homestand against the Columbus Blue Jackets. Once again Ray Emery got the call in net and this time he was in much better condition with 25 saves out of the 28 shots he faced. Plus the defense in front of him, for most the part, was much stronger than it had been the last couple games and that helped a lot. Meanwhile, Jeff Carter ensured the Flyer's scoring attack would get off to a quick start, amassing 2 goals, and an assist through the first 2 periods to lift the Orange and Black to a 4-2 lead heading into the 3rd period. Midway through the 3rd period Dan Carcillo scored on a wrist shot to put Columbus away for good in an important 5-3 Flyer's victory.
Carter and Carcillo weren't the only scorers for the Flyers on this night. Chris Pronger and Aaron Asham also scored a goal each. 5 goals seems to be the magic number for the Flyer's this season. I can't remember any games they have lost this season when scoring 5 or more goals. Though he currently leads the Flyer's in points with 42, it's been a rough up and down year for Carter who scored 40+ goals last season. Hopefully this game will be a turning point for him this season as he continues to try to get back to that 40 goal form. Both of Carter's goals today were unassisted, including one he shot in literally right off a faceoff in front of the net. It was really one of those crazy goals you might only ever see once in your lifetime. With the win the Flyers now have 51 points overall which is still only good enough to leave them a point out of 8th in the Eastern conference. They'll to have to take advantage of the rest of this homestand to get themselves rolling again if they still hope get a playoff spot by the end of the season.
Carter and Carcillo weren't the only scorers for the Flyers on this night. Chris Pronger and Aaron Asham also scored a goal each. 5 goals seems to be the magic number for the Flyer's this season. I can't remember any games they have lost this season when scoring 5 or more goals. Though he currently leads the Flyer's in points with 42, it's been a rough up and down year for Carter who scored 40+ goals last season. Hopefully this game will be a turning point for him this season as he continues to try to get back to that 40 goal form. Both of Carter's goals today were unassisted, including one he shot in literally right off a faceoff in front of the net. It was really one of those crazy goals you might only ever see once in your lifetime. With the win the Flyers now have 51 points overall which is still only good enough to leave them a point out of 8th in the Eastern conference. They'll to have to take advantage of the rest of this homestand to get themselves rolling again if they still hope get a playoff spot by the end of the season.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils have reached that point in the offseason where they have start dealing with their arbitration eligible players or you know, go to arbitration. This season the Phils had 4 arbitration eligible players, relief pitcher Chad Durbin, CF Shane Victorino, #3 starter Joe Blanton, and catcher Carlos Ruiz. Today they took care of Durbin, signing him to a 1 year $1.25 million deal to sure the bullpen. So now we'll just have to wait and see what happens with the other 3.
EAGLES NEWS
Today the Eagles signed RB Martell Mallet who was the CFL rookie of the year last year with 1,280 rushing yards on 214 carries. With questions surrounding Brian Westbrook's future with the Eagles might need another running back to complement young Lesean McCoy. If he can prove in training camp that he can play at the NFL level Mallet might just be the guy, but that's pretty big if.
Monday, January 18, 2010
SIXERS NEWS
They had won 3 of their last 4 games, the defense finally seemed to be in place, and this afternoon they had a date with the young Minnesota Timberwolves, currently languishing with the 2nd worst record in the NBA. What could possibly go wrong for the Sixers on this day? Apparently a little too much. At first everything went right for the Sixers. T-Wolves got off to a terrible start hitting just 22 of their 1st 29 baskets, while the Sixers came out shooting the lights out and jumped to a 20 point lead at one time. Even at the half they still led convincingly by 17 and it really seemed as though Minnesota would not be capable of such a comeback. Fortunately, they were playing the Sixers.
Everything just completely fell apart for Eddie Jordan's team in the 2nd half. They shot over 50% from the field, put up 57 points and turned the ball over just 4 times in the 1st half. In the 2nd half the shooting dipped well under %50, they put up just 42 points, and turned the ball over 10 times. Most importantly they allowed the T-Wolves to heat up from field, from beyond the arc, from everywhere really, which is exactly the one thing they had avoided these last few games. Today they couldn't and it cost them. Even the young T-Wolves could smell blood in the water and they took full advantage, outscoring the Sixers by 20 in the final 2 quarters. Incredibly the Sixers still had a chance to win in the final seconds but Andre Iguodala missed a fadeaway at the buzzer and the game went into overtime where the T-wolves accordingly pulled out the 108-103 win.
In the losing effort the Sixer's had 7 players score in double figures for about the 1st time this season, with Iggy's 17 leading the way. Sammy Dalembert put up 12 points and 10 rebounds in the loss to give him a double double in 3 consecutive games now. In an unusual sight, Allen Iverson did play at all in the overtime period which is further evidence that he just isn't perennial 40 minute man he used to be. Not surprisingly today marked the T-Wolves biggest come from behind win of the season thus far. At 13-27 overall the Sixers are now 5.5 games out of 8th in the Eastern conference and have to come the point where there's no time to make excuses anymore. They just have to get it done now or wait till next year.
Everything just completely fell apart for Eddie Jordan's team in the 2nd half. They shot over 50% from the field, put up 57 points and turned the ball over just 4 times in the 1st half. In the 2nd half the shooting dipped well under %50, they put up just 42 points, and turned the ball over 10 times. Most importantly they allowed the T-Wolves to heat up from field, from beyond the arc, from everywhere really, which is exactly the one thing they had avoided these last few games. Today they couldn't and it cost them. Even the young T-Wolves could smell blood in the water and they took full advantage, outscoring the Sixers by 20 in the final 2 quarters. Incredibly the Sixers still had a chance to win in the final seconds but Andre Iguodala missed a fadeaway at the buzzer and the game went into overtime where the T-wolves accordingly pulled out the 108-103 win.
In the losing effort the Sixer's had 7 players score in double figures for about the 1st time this season, with Iggy's 17 leading the way. Sammy Dalembert put up 12 points and 10 rebounds in the loss to give him a double double in 3 consecutive games now. In an unusual sight, Allen Iverson did play at all in the overtime period which is further evidence that he just isn't perennial 40 minute man he used to be. Not surprisingly today marked the T-Wolves biggest come from behind win of the season thus far. At 13-27 overall the Sixers are now 5.5 games out of 8th in the Eastern conference and have to come the point where there's no time to make excuses anymore. They just have to get it done now or wait till next year.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
FLYERS NEWS
Fresh off a disappointing loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs, the Flyers traveled to Washington today looking rebound with a big win over Alexander Ovechkin and the Capitals. In a bit of surprise move, given how long it's been since he has played and the caliber of opponent, Ray Emery was given the nod to start in goal. Not surprisingly he looked every bit like a goalie who hadn't taken the ice in over a month, allowing 5 goals while facing only 22 shots. He just wasn't as sharp as you would expect a healthy Emery to be and struggled to handle rebounds for much of the day. The Flyer's defense did necessarily help him that much either. While they did hold Washington to only 22 shots on goal, too many of them were point blank shots at Emery which he just wasn't ready for. There were just too many instances where Flyer's were unable to keep up with the speedy Caps.
Despite the defensive struggles the Orange and Black still were still able to put forth a decent effort and keep things close for most of the contest. In fact, it wasn't until the 3rd period that Washington finally pulled away. Early on in the 1st period the Flyers actually had lead, first 1-0 on a power play goal by Jeff Carter and then 2-1 on a tally by James Van Reimsdyk. About midway through the 2nd period Washington finally took it's first lead by scoring on there only power play of the day, following a questionable holding call on Carter. Early in the 3rd period the Flyers had an opportunity on the power play to knot things up again, but they allowed the Washington penalty kill to get a rush into their zone and Caps took advantage with a shorthanded tally to make it 4-2. Later in the 3rd peirod, as if he needed anymore advantage, Ovechkin was awarded a penalty after Braydon Coburn desperately pulled him down in front of the net to avoid allowing an easy score. Ovechkin easily beat the Emery for a 5-2 lead which pretty put things out of reach for the Flyers. Danny Briere did score a late power play though to make the final score a more respectable 5-3. So after all the winning and success they had been having, the Flyers have now dropped 2 in a row and almost appear to be right back to where they started.
The Flyers are still only 1 point out of 8th in the Eastern conference but they can't afford to keep losing like this. They've got a homestand coming up now and they really need it to become a good one if they want to stay that close to the last playoff spot in the East. The last time Ray Emery started for the Flyers was Dec 5. against these same Capitals, in an 8-2 nightmare loss for the Flyers. Maybe he shouldn't play against the Caps anymore or perhaps the Flyers should have held him back for one more game, where he could have returned to action against a much lesser opponent. It's loo late now though, so here's hoping he shakes off the rust before long.
Despite the defensive struggles the Orange and Black still were still able to put forth a decent effort and keep things close for most of the contest. In fact, it wasn't until the 3rd period that Washington finally pulled away. Early on in the 1st period the Flyers actually had lead, first 1-0 on a power play goal by Jeff Carter and then 2-1 on a tally by James Van Reimsdyk. About midway through the 2nd period Washington finally took it's first lead by scoring on there only power play of the day, following a questionable holding call on Carter. Early in the 3rd period the Flyers had an opportunity on the power play to knot things up again, but they allowed the Washington penalty kill to get a rush into their zone and Caps took advantage with a shorthanded tally to make it 4-2. Later in the 3rd peirod, as if he needed anymore advantage, Ovechkin was awarded a penalty after Braydon Coburn desperately pulled him down in front of the net to avoid allowing an easy score. Ovechkin easily beat the Emery for a 5-2 lead which pretty put things out of reach for the Flyers. Danny Briere did score a late power play though to make the final score a more respectable 5-3. So after all the winning and success they had been having, the Flyers have now dropped 2 in a row and almost appear to be right back to where they started.
The Flyers are still only 1 point out of 8th in the Eastern conference but they can't afford to keep losing like this. They've got a homestand coming up now and they really need it to become a good one if they want to stay that close to the last playoff spot in the East. The last time Ray Emery started for the Flyers was Dec 5. against these same Capitals, in an 8-2 nightmare loss for the Flyers. Maybe he shouldn't play against the Caps anymore or perhaps the Flyers should have held him back for one more game, where he could have returned to action against a much lesser opponent. It's loo late now though, so here's hoping he shakes off the rust before long.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Friday, January 15, 2010
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers welcomed the Sacramento Kings and local product Tyreke Evans to the Wachovia center tonight. The last time these two teams met at Sacremento the Kings were without ,the sensational rookie, Evans and the Sixers amped up the defense and won easily. Tonight even with Evans back in the lineup, it was more of the same for the home team, as the Sixer's put together perhaps their best defensive effort of the season thus far. They held the Kings to just 37% shooting from the field, forced them into 19 turnovers, and did a very good job not allowing Evans the opportunity to take the game over. In fact he spent most of the night frustrated by the Sixer's defense and yet somehow, mostly from the free throw line, still scored 14 which just shows how good he is. I think most importantly for the Sixer's defense, though was the final tally of points for the Sacramento, which just 86. Yes that's right the Sixers actually held a team under 90 for the just 4th time this season. For a team that's been struggling to hold leads, ratcheting up the defense down the stretch is certainly one obvious remedy to their problems and I would like to see more of it please. Owing to their solid defense the Sixers led virtually the entire game, 7 after the 1st quarter, 2 at the half, and 3 heading into the 4th quarter. Normally that's where things would have gone horribly wrong. Not this time. The Kings did come back to tie the game, but there was no panic in the Sixer's on this night. Thanks to clutch shooting by Elton Brand, and clutch rebounding by the still heavy hearted Sammy Dalembert, the Sixers built their lead back up and ran away from the frustrated Kings in the final 5 minutes of the game to win by 12, 98-86.
Although Eddie Jordan later complained about the lack of it, the Sixer's scoring was about as solid as their D tonight. Sure they only put up 98, which is a little under what they are capable of, but they still had 6 players score in double figures, with Thad Young's 20 leading the way. Moreover, points generally go down for a team when they start focusing more on the defensive end, so for me the fact that they only scored 98 would be a good sign. They'll need to maintain the focus they had on D tonight for the remainder of the season if they plan to go anywhere this year. Anyway, besides Young, the other Sixers in double digits, were AI with 17, Sammy D with 17 and 12 rebounds, Andre Iguodala with 12 and 10 rebounds, Lou Williams with 11, and Elton Brand with 14 off the bench. So as it's been for the Sixer's lately, it was a team effort and the kind of effort they need more of from here on out.
This was the 4th straight game in which the Sixers held their opponents under 100 points and they won 3 of the 4. Coincidence? I think not. This was also as mentioned, just the 4th time this season they held a team under 90 points. They won all 4 of those. Coincidence, obviously not. Eddie Jordan keeps talking about how hard they have been working on their defense in practice, and it seems now it is finally paying off. With his 17 and 12 tonight, Sammy D now has a double double in 3 of the Sixer's last 5 games, and at least 10 rebounds or 10 points in 5 straight games. The Sixer's won three of those 5. Coincidence? maybe, but again I think not. This is now the 2nd game Sammy D has played since an earthquake laid waste to much of his home country, Haiti , and yet despite the pain he must be carrying, he has looked better than ever. I cannot imagine what it must me be like to see your homeland destroyed and not be able to do anything about it except send money for relief, that is, over $100,000 at this point. I commend him on the tremendous focus he has shown these last 2 games, because I know would have not had the strength to play as he has. There should be more people in the world, especially in the NBA, like Sammy. Go to Sammy's website, http://www.dalembertfoundation.org/ or text Haiti to 90999 to donate to the earthquake relief efforts.
Although Eddie Jordan later complained about the lack of it, the Sixer's scoring was about as solid as their D tonight. Sure they only put up 98, which is a little under what they are capable of, but they still had 6 players score in double figures, with Thad Young's 20 leading the way. Moreover, points generally go down for a team when they start focusing more on the defensive end, so for me the fact that they only scored 98 would be a good sign. They'll need to maintain the focus they had on D tonight for the remainder of the season if they plan to go anywhere this year. Anyway, besides Young, the other Sixers in double digits, were AI with 17, Sammy D with 17 and 12 rebounds, Andre Iguodala with 12 and 10 rebounds, Lou Williams with 11, and Elton Brand with 14 off the bench. So as it's been for the Sixer's lately, it was a team effort and the kind of effort they need more of from here on out.
This was the 4th straight game in which the Sixers held their opponents under 100 points and they won 3 of the 4. Coincidence? I think not. This was also as mentioned, just the 4th time this season they held a team under 90 points. They won all 4 of those. Coincidence, obviously not. Eddie Jordan keeps talking about how hard they have been working on their defense in practice, and it seems now it is finally paying off. With his 17 and 12 tonight, Sammy D now has a double double in 3 of the Sixer's last 5 games, and at least 10 rebounds or 10 points in 5 straight games. The Sixer's won three of those 5. Coincidence? maybe, but again I think not. This is now the 2nd game Sammy D has played since an earthquake laid waste to much of his home country, Haiti , and yet despite the pain he must be carrying, he has looked better than ever. I cannot imagine what it must me be like to see your homeland destroyed and not be able to do anything about it except send money for relief, that is, over $100,000 at this point. I commend him on the tremendous focus he has shown these last 2 games, because I know would have not had the strength to play as he has. There should be more people in the world, especially in the NBA, like Sammy. Go to Sammy's website, http://www.dalembertfoundation.org/ or text Haiti to 90999 to donate to the earthquake relief efforts.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyer's traveled to Toronto tonight to faceoff against the Maple Leafs, as they looked to continue their hot streak. Unfortunately, their current lack of roster depth came back to bite them again on this night. Young defenseman Danny Svyret went down with an injury in the Flyer's last game, and was replaced by Ole Kristian Tollefsen, who had been injured himself. Tollefsen has been shaky at best for the Orange and Black this season and he didn't get it done tonight. Likewise, Scott Hartnell was also out tonight with a stomach illness and he was replaced by Mika Pyorala, usually a healthy scratch from the lineup, and he too was not up to the task. Finally Mike Richards was apparently also afflicted with the stomach ailment that shelved Hartnell and he tried to play through, but was clearly not himself. Collectively, all of these things conspired to transform the Flyers from the tough, confident team from the last few games, to the sluggish uninspired one that showed up tonight. Alltogether they put 38 shots on goal, but none of them got by Leaf's goalie, Vesa Toskala. Meanwhile, Micheal Leighton, in what will probably be his last start after what happened tonight, had to watch his sluggish defense break down and hang him out to dry time after time. As a result Torono got the win 4-0 to snap the Flyer's win streak and bring them back down to reality for one night at least. On top of that Daroll Powe went down with an injury tonight as well, but so far there's no word on how serious it is. Here's hoping he gets better soon and the Orange and Black get back on track before too long. There's just no need anymore for losing streaks like the ones they were on before this recent hot streak. Anyway at this point with still 49 points overall, they drop to 9th in the East, but only 1 point out of 8th, so they're still okay for now.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers welcomed the New York Knicks to the Wachovia center tonight. The Sixers had handled the Knicks thus far this season, so this should have been an easy win for the Sixers, and a golden opportunity to pull closer to the teams ahead of them in the Eastern conference standings. A win would also have marked the Sixer's first 3 game winning streak of the season. Alas, it was not to be in this tight affair. The Sixers actually started a little slow for a change, falling behind by 4 after a quarter of play. By the half they had rallied ahead by 1 and by the 4th quarter the game was knotted up at 68 a piece. The 4th quarter was about as tight as it gets with the two teams going back and forth until the final seconds of the game. Mo Speights hit a hook shot with 27 seconds left for a 92-91 Sixer's lead. With 13 seconds left a layup by David Lee put New York up 93-92. That left the Sixers with the final shot of the game. Unfortunately, the best shot they could come up with was a Rodney Carney three pointer which clanged out to seal the 93-92 Knick's victory. Despite the loss there were severable positives for the Sixers. They got 38 total points from their bench, with Carney's 13 and Speights' 10 leading the way. 3 of their 5 starters scored in double figures as well, with AI's 16 leading the way. Thad Young added 10 and 8 rebounds, and Sammy Dalembert, playing having heavy heart after his native homeland of Haiti was devastated by an Earthquake yesterday, provided an inspired effort with 12 and 21 rebounds. In fact the Sixer's as a team destroyed the smaller Knicks on the boards, 54-37, but failed to really take advantage of it, as they only shot 43% from the field, while New York shot 45% from the field, including 5 three pointers. So it was a solid effort for the Sixers in most aspects, but for whatever reason they just weren't quite sharp enough to get the win. They really need to stop losing games like this or they won't headed anywhere this season and maybe at 12-26 overall at this point, they're already headed nowhere.
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