Fresh off a huge loss to the Canadiens, the Flyers had to get the win this afternoon against the Detroit Red Wings, or risk watching their playoff hopes go up in smoke. Detroit came in as the hottest team in the NHL so it didn't seem likely the slumping Flyers would be able to knock them off. Guess again. The inspired play the Flyers exhibited in their last game carried over into this one and fueled the Orange and Black to a quick 2-0 lead, off scores by Danny Briere and Kimmo Timonen, just over 7 minutes into the game. The Flyers then broke down a bit defensively, as Detroit scored a pair of soft goals late in the period to rally back to a 2-2 tie. The Flyers fought back in the 2nd period though with Claude Giroux scoring just seconds into the period for a 3-2 lead. Later with a little under 3 minutes to play in the period Aaron Asham made it 4-2 Orange and Black.
Early in the 3rd period Pavel Datsyuk scored to cut it to 4-3 ,but from there despite a furious late push from Detroit, the Flyers hung on to win, as Brian Boucher and the defense both rose to the occasion. Boucher was solid again with 31 saves out of 34 opportunities, and Detroit's red hot lineup was kept under wraps with just 25 shots on goal, and no real scoring opportunities down the stretch. Meanwhile, the Flyers simply did enough themselves, with those 4 goals, to hang on for the win. With the win the Orange and Black now have 84 points overall, still 8th in the East, and 2 points up on the 9th place New York Rangers. So they must remain in must win mode like they were today, and keep winning if they are to hang on to a playoff spot.
Sunday, April 04, 2010
EAGLES NEWS
It's official the Donovan Mcnabb era is over in Philadelphia. The Eagles traded him today to the division rival Washington Redskins for the 37th pick(2nd round) of this month's draft. On the one hand the Eagles now 11 picks, 5 in the 1st 3 rounds, in what supposed to be a deep draft so they should be able to improve the team now with a good draft. Also Kevin Kolb will now get his chance to start for the Eagles. On the other hand they sent him to Washington so the Birds will have to play him twice this season, and Washington, already a good defensive team, could improve enough with Mcnabb to move past the Eagles in the NFC East and become a playoff team. Also I can't imagine Donovan in a Redskins jersey so that should be interesting to see. In the end it is hard to know at this point whether this was a good or bad trade. We'll just have to see how the draft goes and how Kolb fares next season.
PHILLIES NEWS
A new season and the pursuit of a 4th straight NL East division title and 3rd straight National League Championship begins for the Phils tomorrow. I can't wait.
Saturday, April 03, 2010
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers welcomed the Toronto Raptors to the Wachovia center tonight for an afternoon matchup. Toronto came into the afternoon clinging to the 8th seed in the Eastern conference, so they desperately needed a win to move closer to clinching themselves a playoff berth. Fresh off an embarrassing loss to Ok City Thunder Sixers didn't figure to fair any better in this one. All the signs pointed to another lopsided Sixers's loss. However, the Sixers actually came to play in this one for a change and while Toronto did eventually get the win, they had to earn it. For 4 quarters the Sixers matched them shot for shot as Andre Iguodala put 33 and 11 assists, and Jrue Holiday pumped in 25 and 7 assists, to almost lead the Sixers to the upset. The Sixers actually trailed by 13 heading into the 4th quarter, but a furious Sixer rally early in the quarter, allowed them to cut the lead to singe digits, before knotting up at 111 with a little under 2 minutes to play.
From there Holiday and the Raptors traded threes to send the game into overtime tied at 114. In OT the Sixers continued to match Toronto shot for shot until the Raptors pulled ahead with under a minute to play. A few Sixer misses and mistakes later and Toronto had prevailed 128 - 123, not really a surprise at all. Once again the Sixer's defense didn't show up in this one, allowing Toronto to shoot 56% from the field with 11 three pointers. That just isn't going to get it done against the Raptors. Still, it was fun to watch and nice to see the Sixers actually exhibiting some effort. You just wonder why Iggy doesn't score like he did today in every game and whether Jrue Holiday can cosistently become the kind of scorer he was tonight. In the meantime, with the loss the Sixers drop to 24-60 overall, still 12th in the Eastern conference.
From there Holiday and the Raptors traded threes to send the game into overtime tied at 114. In OT the Sixers continued to match Toronto shot for shot until the Raptors pulled ahead with under a minute to play. A few Sixer misses and mistakes later and Toronto had prevailed 128 - 123, not really a surprise at all. Once again the Sixer's defense didn't show up in this one, allowing Toronto to shoot 56% from the field with 11 three pointers. That just isn't going to get it done against the Raptors. Still, it was fun to watch and nice to see the Sixers actually exhibiting some effort. You just wonder why Iggy doesn't score like he did today in every game and whether Jrue Holiday can cosistently become the kind of scorer he was tonight. In the meantime, with the loss the Sixers drop to 24-60 overall, still 12th in the Eastern conference.
Friday, April 02, 2010
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers welcomed the Montreal Canadiens to the Wachovia center tonight in a huge matchup between the two teams tied for 6th in the Eastern conference. In fact Peter Lavoliette, described it as the biggest game of the season for the Flyers. Unfortunately, for the Orange and Black, Jaroslav Halak owned the night for the Habs. The Flyers threw everything but the kitchen sink at him, and he stopped it all, with 35 saves. Meanwhile, Montreal got a lucky score midway through the 1st period and thanks to Halak that was all they needed for a 1-0 win. The Flyers really dominated for good a portion of this one, so to lose 1-0 in a game they had to have is disheartening.
The Orange and Black don't have time to feel sorry for themselves though. With only 4 games left to play they sit 8th in the Eastern conference, just 2 points ahead of the Rangers and Thrashers at this point. That means they'll have to win at least 2 of those 4, if not 3 of them in order to hang on for a playoff spot. If nothing else the performance of Brian Boucher tonight, saving 22 of the 23 shots he faced, was an encouraging sign that perhaps they can do so. If they do hang on for a playoff spot it doesn't feel like at this point that they'll go any further than the an embarrassing first round exit. So maybe getting to the playoffs is not worth it for the Flyers this year anyway. I don't know, I am not sure what to think anymore.
The Orange and Black don't have time to feel sorry for themselves though. With only 4 games left to play they sit 8th in the Eastern conference, just 2 points ahead of the Rangers and Thrashers at this point. That means they'll have to win at least 2 of those 4, if not 3 of them in order to hang on for a playoff spot. If nothing else the performance of Brian Boucher tonight, saving 22 of the 23 shots he faced, was an encouraging sign that perhaps they can do so. If they do hang on for a playoff spot it doesn't feel like at this point that they'll go any further than the an embarrassing first round exit. So maybe getting to the playoffs is not worth it for the Flyers this year anyway. I don't know, I am not sure what to think anymore.
EAGLES NEWS
The Birds continued their suddenly busy off season today trading CB Sheldon Brown and LB Chris Gocong to the Cleveland Browns for a 4th and 5th round pick and LB Alex Hall. Gocong never really fit with the Eagles and it was highly probable he wasn't even going to be in the starting lineup when the season began, so losing him is no big deal. Brown was going to be 31 this season and his health had been declining a bit in recent years. He had also openly talked about his displeasure with his contract with the Eagles. So it is not a huge surprise that he was dealt. However, as pretty much the only veteran leader left on the Eagle's defense he is going to be hard to replace. Basically his absence leaves one more hole in a defense that was already full of them. Sure if he is completely healed from the neck injury that ended his season last year, Ellis Hobbs could replace him, but after that the Birds have no one capable of doing so. Thus, they'll have to add CB to their list of needs on draft day. Having those 2 extra picks, 10 overall, in what is supposed to be a deep draft, should make it easier for them to find a CB there if they so choose. As for Hall, he is a big 6-5 250 strong side LB who will compete with Moise Fokou for the job there, assuming the Eagles don't bring in someone else. Who knows, he could be a good fit there, much better than Gocong would have been. Only time will tell.
Thursday, April 01, 2010
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers traveled to NY tonight for a matchup with the Islanders as they looked to string together back to back wins for the first time in a while. Considering they came into the night with a Flyer's record 16 straight wins over the Isles, a 2nd straight win overall shouldn't have been too much to ask for. Unfortunately, Brian Boucher had a horrid and unlucky night allowing 3 goals less than 8 minutes into the game. First two bounced off Flyers and into the net leaving the Orange and Black in a shell shocked state from which they never recovered. It was 4-0 just 3 minutes into the 2nd period. Then after Aaron Asham finally got the Flyers on the board late in the 2nd, NY made it 5-1 just 2 and a half minutes into the 2nd period and Boucher was actually yanked from the game in favor of rookie Jeremy Duchesne, who was just called up from the AHL yesterday.
He only allowed one more score the rest of the way, but that was enough to for New York to hold off the Flyers. James Van Reimsdyk, Danny Briere, and Darroll Powe all scored in the 3rd, but it was too little too late, as the Orange and Black eventually succumbed 6-4. With only 6 games left in the regular season and the Flyers desperately needing every point possible to lock up a playoff spot, this was exactly the kind of night they didn't need. It's hard to see Boucher being good enough to help the Flyers hang in there for another 6, but what other choice do the Flyer's have? at this point no matter what he's going to be the only goalie on the roster eligible to play for the Orange and Black in the postseason until Micheal Leighton returns, but that would be sometime after the playoffs start. So basically the Flyers are really going to have pick things up defensively down this last stretch of games or they're not going anywhere this season. For now they're still somehow 6th in the East, with tiebreakers over the 7th and 8th seeds(Montreal and Boston) and 2 points ahead of 9th place Atlanta.
He only allowed one more score the rest of the way, but that was enough to for New York to hold off the Flyers. James Van Reimsdyk, Danny Briere, and Darroll Powe all scored in the 3rd, but it was too little too late, as the Orange and Black eventually succumbed 6-4. With only 6 games left in the regular season and the Flyers desperately needing every point possible to lock up a playoff spot, this was exactly the kind of night they didn't need. It's hard to see Boucher being good enough to help the Flyers hang in there for another 6, but what other choice do the Flyer's have? at this point no matter what he's going to be the only goalie on the roster eligible to play for the Orange and Black in the postseason until Micheal Leighton returns, but that would be sometime after the playoffs start. So basically the Flyers are really going to have pick things up defensively down this last stretch of games or they're not going anywhere this season. For now they're still somehow 6th in the East, with tiebreakers over the 7th and 8th seeds(Montreal and Boston) and 2 points ahead of 9th place Atlanta.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils finally returned to Philly tonight and completed their spring training schedule against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Jamie Moyer got the start and was rock solid again, allowing just 2 runs over 6 innings as the Phils held off Pittsburgh 4-2. Unfortunately, some of the Phils other pitchers weren't so lucky yesterday. Joe Blanton went down with an injury will be out for the first 3-6 weeks of the season. Which means Kyle Kendrick will in fact be in the Phils rotation until then at least. J.C Romero and Brad Lidge, who both spent the spring rehabbing were also placed the on the 15 day DL, but hopefully that's all the time they'll need to get back. In the meantime Ryan Madson will close the games for the Phils and they'll just have to figure out who the setup guy will be.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers traveled to Charlotte tonight for a matchup with Larry Brown's Bobcats, currently the #7 seed in the East. I want to tell you the Sixers came out and at least put up another decent,y respectable performance in this one, but I would be lying. The truth is it was a total embarrassment. They turned the ball over 24 times, and threw up 21 shots from beyond the arc, hitting just 5 of them, everything you don't want to do against a defensive minded team like the Bobcats. Charlotte jumped out to a 6 point lead after the 1st quarter and never looked back. They were up 10 at the half, and 18 ending into the 4th quarter, before winning easily by 19, 103-84. The Sixers played again without Lou Williams and Thad Young, as well as Rodney Carney, but that's really no excuse. They simply stop caring about winning and losing tonight and they'll probably stay like that the rest of the season.
Even Jrue Holiday, who's been the teams lone bright spot as of late, had a horrible night with 7 turnovers. Andre Iguodala was the leading scorer as usual with 14, and Jason Kapono drilled 3 treys for 13. The rest of the scoring for came from the bench where Willie Green added 12, and Mo Speights scored 13. As they have in most of their losses this season the Sixers failed to regularly attack the basket in this one. They drew just 11 fouls to 35 for the Bobcats, and gathered just 10 points at line to 54 for the Bobcats. You are not going to win too many times with that kind of discrepancy. Incredibly despite the loss, the Sixer's are still 12th in the East, and well who cares now how far out of 8th they are. I mean how can that many other teams in the East be that much worse than the Sixers.
Even Jrue Holiday, who's been the teams lone bright spot as of late, had a horrible night with 7 turnovers. Andre Iguodala was the leading scorer as usual with 14, and Jason Kapono drilled 3 treys for 13. The rest of the scoring for came from the bench where Willie Green added 12, and Mo Speights scored 13. As they have in most of their losses this season the Sixers failed to regularly attack the basket in this one. They drew just 11 fouls to 35 for the Bobcats, and gathered just 10 points at line to 54 for the Bobcats. You are not going to win too many times with that kind of discrepancy. Incredibly despite the loss, the Sixer's are still 12th in the East, and well who cares now how far out of 8th they are. I mean how can that many other teams in the East be that much worse than the Sixers.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils continued spring training today against the Toronto Blue Jays. Roy Halladay got the start against his old team and seemed a bit affected as he was roughed up for 4 runs on 5 hits as the Phils lost 5-2. He also struck out 5 and didn't walk any so I wouldn't worry too much. I think he was giving his old boys some batting practice. He just has to be sure not to do that to for them in the regular season.
EAGLES NEWS
The Eagles continued to lock up their own players today re-signing Omar Gaither to a one year deal. Gaither has been the Eagles backup middle linebacker to Stewart Bradley. He started for a while last season after Bradley, and looked alright before missing the rest of the season with an ankle injury. Now that Bradley is back he'll just be a backup again and he may push Akeem Jordan for the weakside LB spot.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
SIXERS NEWS
After back to back shocking wins over the Bucks and the Hawks, the Sixers looked to make it 3 in a row as they welcomed Kevin Durant and the Oklahoma City Thunder to the Wachovia center tonight. Ultimately, the Thunder proved to be too much in this one. Durant poured in 26 and 10 rebounds to lead all scorers and OK City shot 50% from beyond the arc and rolled to 111 points. Meanwhile, the Sixers shot just 27% from beyond the arc and Elton Brand was the leading scorer with 22, as the Sixers failed to reach triple digits in yet another game. So it was pretty much all OK city, all the time. The Thunder led by 10 after the 1st quarter, 11 at half, and 10 heading into the 4th quarter, before winning easily by 18, 111-93. The Thunder really were dominant in every facet of the game, with 10 more assists, rebounds, and steals then Sixers and 10 fewer turnovers. Basically they played like a team that wanted it while the Sixers played like they didn't care.
Now for their part, the Sixers didn't play that poorly. Brand had 22, Iggy dropped in 21, Jrue Holiday scored 11, and Rodney Carney and Mo Speights each posted 10. So they had sufficient scoring. They just struggled from beyond the arc and their defense wasn't good enough. Not even close to good enough really. Three shockers in a row was just too much to ask. At least they didn't totally embarrass themselves. At ant rate with the losss the Sixers drop to 26-48 overall, still 12th in the East, but now 10.5 games out of 8th and mathematically eliminated from playoff contention. Better luck next year I guess.
Now for their part, the Sixers didn't play that poorly. Brand had 22, Iggy dropped in 21, Jrue Holiday scored 11, and Rodney Carney and Mo Speights each posted 10. So they had sufficient scoring. They just struggled from beyond the arc and their defense wasn't good enough. Not even close to good enough really. Three shockers in a row was just too much to ask. At least they didn't totally embarrass themselves. At ant rate with the losss the Sixers drop to 26-48 overall, still 12th in the East, but now 10.5 games out of 8th and mathematically eliminated from playoff contention. Better luck next year I guess.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils continued spring training today against the Houston Astros. They lost 5-2 despite another solid but abbreviated outing by Kyle Kendrick. In more important news the Phils announced today that Jamie Moyer will be the number 5 starter for the Phils, at least to start the season. Kendrick for his part won a spot in the Phils bullpen. Given that this is likely his last season Moyer deserved at least the chance to finish up the way he began as a starter. Moreover, Kendrick shouldn't be affected at all by moving to the bullpen. So all in all I think the Phils made the right move.
EAGLES NEWS
The Birds continued their not so busy offseason today, signing their own restricted free agents, LB Chris Gocong and CB Ellis Hobs to 1 year deals. Hobbs was very valuable last season as the 3rd CB and kick returner for the Birds, but he got hurt just 8 games into the season so we never really got a chance to see how valuable he could be. Gocong was the Eagles starting weakside LB until last year. Then he lost his job to Akeem Jordan. With Will Witherspoon gone now he'll probably have to be a start for the Birds again so hopefully he'll be alright,
Monday, March 29, 2010
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils continued spring training today against the Braves. J.A Happ got the start and was a bit shaky walking 5 in 5 innings, but allowed just 2 runs and kept the Phils in it. Unfortunately, Ryan Madson allowed a leadoff solo homer in the top of the 9th and the Phils fell 5-4. For Happ, just the fact that he was able to hold Atlanta to just 2 runs, despite all the walks, shows he still has the mental toughness that served him so well last year. As for Madson he's not had a very good spring and will need to turn things around this week or so of spring or the Phils will have all kinds of trouble closing games when the season starts.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers welcomed the Devils to the Wachovia center tonight as they looked to snap a 5 game losing streak. Coming into tonight the Flyer's had owned New Jersey this season, with just one loss against them all year. In fact the last time these two teams met the Flyers swept New Jersey in a home and home. Desperately in need of 2 points, the Orange and Black could not have picked a better time to face New Jersey again. They basically picked up right where they left off in the home and home, with a couple quick scores in the 1st period by Matt Carle and Ville Leino for an early 2-0 lead. Just seconds into the 2nd period Kimmo Timonen scored off the power play for a 3-0 lead. With just seconds left in the 2nd period Lukas Krajicek deposited a rare goal for a 4-0 lead. Just past the halfway point in the 3rd, Ilya Kovalchuk finally got New Jersey on the board to cut the lead to 4-1 but it was too little too late for the Devils.
Only about 30 seconds later Leino and Danny Briere set up Simon Gagne for another score and an insurmountable 5-1 lead. Thanks to Brian Boucher and his 32 saves that lead held up the rest of the way and the Flyers got their 2 points. While Boucher was fantastic the Flyer's defense really stepped up in this one. They did allow 33 shots on goal but for once few of those shots represented good scoring for New Jersey. Perhaps more impressive though were the 5 goals they scored. With all the scoring struggles they have had lately, just the fact that they were able to score 5 just like that tonight shows what this team is capable when they focus and give it their all. They'll need to keep doing that from here on out if they still want to lock up a playoff spot and go anywhere this season. For now with 82 points overall, they're back up to 6th in the East, 4 points ahead of the 9th place thrashers and 6 ahead of the 10th place Rangers.
Only about 30 seconds later Leino and Danny Briere set up Simon Gagne for another score and an insurmountable 5-1 lead. Thanks to Brian Boucher and his 32 saves that lead held up the rest of the way and the Flyers got their 2 points. While Boucher was fantastic the Flyer's defense really stepped up in this one. They did allow 33 shots on goal but for once few of those shots represented good scoring for New Jersey. Perhaps more impressive though were the 5 goals they scored. With all the scoring struggles they have had lately, just the fact that they were able to score 5 just like that tonight shows what this team is capable when they focus and give it their all. They'll need to keep doing that from here on out if they still want to lock up a playoff spot and go anywhere this season. For now with 82 points overall, they're back up to 6th in the East, 4 points ahead of the 9th place thrashers and 6 ahead of the 10th place Rangers.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers traveled to Pittsburgh this afternoon for a matchup with the Penguins as they looked to snap a 4 games losing streak. Desperate to stop the losing streak and their slide out of playoff contention the Flyers brought up Jonas Backlund from the Phantoms to get the start in goal. He did pretty good job in the first two periods but reaggravated the groin injury, which kept the Flyers from calling him up sooner, and could not come out for the 3rd period. The Flyer's also had some bad luck with the officials in the first those first 2 periods as well, with a Simon Gagne goal getting disallowed while a Pen's goal that should probably have been disallowed was not, and ended up going into the 3rd period down 2-1. There with Boucher in goal Pittsburgh quickly made it 3-1 and then eventually 4-1 with a later power play goal, to the send the Orange and Black to their 5th straight loss.
Actually the goal by Matt Cooke, that made it 3-1, probably should have been disallowed too, but with ex-Flyer Ruslan Fedotenko scoring that late power play goal, the Flyers would have lost anyway so I guess it doesn't really matter. For the record Aaron Asham scored the only Flyer goal just one minute into the game. Which means the Flyers did actually lead this game 1-0 at one point, but obviously that didn't last long. It's too bad Backlund reinjured himself because now he'll be out for at least 10 days, which means we're pretty much stuck with Boosh for most of the rest of the season. Hopefully he can clean up his act enough to at least get the Orange and Black into the playoffs and then perhaps Micheal Leighton will be back to care of things after that. At this point with the loss the Flyers are down to 8th in the East, but still 2 points ahead of 9th place Atlanta and 4 points ahead of the Rangers. If they are still to make the playoffs they're going to have a win a few at some point.
Actually the goal by Matt Cooke, that made it 3-1, probably should have been disallowed too, but with ex-Flyer Ruslan Fedotenko scoring that late power play goal, the Flyers would have lost anyway so I guess it doesn't really matter. For the record Aaron Asham scored the only Flyer goal just one minute into the game. Which means the Flyers did actually lead this game 1-0 at one point, but obviously that didn't last long. It's too bad Backlund reinjured himself because now he'll be out for at least 10 days, which means we're pretty much stuck with Boosh for most of the rest of the season. Hopefully he can clean up his act enough to at least get the Orange and Black into the playoffs and then perhaps Micheal Leighton will be back to care of things after that. At this point with the loss the Flyers are down to 8th in the East, but still 2 points ahead of 9th place Atlanta and 4 points ahead of the Rangers. If they are still to make the playoffs they're going to have a win a few at some point.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils continued spring training today against the Minnesota Twins. Cole Hamels got the start and was roughed up for the 2nd time in as many spring training starts, allowing 5 runs on 7 hits over 6 and 1/3rd innings as the Phils fell 8-4. It' s still only spring training so I don't want to get too alarmed with Cole at this point, but I would say one more start like this and there might be something to worry about.
Friday, March 26, 2010
SIXERS NEWS
After a shocking win over the red hot, Eastern conference #5 seed Milwaukee Bucks in their last game the Sixers looked to make it two shockers in a row as they welcomed the already playoff bound, and Eastern conference #4 seed, Atlanta Hawks to the Wachovia center tonight. For most of the night it was a pretty listless affair with a disinterested Atlanta holding a slim lead. Then late in the 3rd quarter Andre Iguodala slammed a back a rebound off a miss by Jason Kapono, to put the Sixers up 4 and they were off and running. Atlanta did come back to take an 88-87 lead with 6 minutes to play in the 4th, but then Jrue Holiday stole the ball from Josh Smith, and took all the way to the basket before making a perfect dish to Sammy Dalembert for the stuff and an 89-88 lead. The Sixers would never trail again as they used more Hawk turnovers to close out another shocker 105-98, in arguably the best game the Sixers have played all season.
Other than the steals the Sixer's defense was just okay, but they came up with 15 steals in all and they made all the difference, as the Sixers were able to get out and run and attack the basket, the two things they must do to succceed. While steals helped the Sixers greatly tonight, their new look lineup, with Mo Speights at center, and Jason Kapono again starting small forward, with Iggy shifted over to shooting guard. All I have to say is where has this lineup been all year, because it perfect tonight. Elton Brand, had 14 and 6 rebounds, Kapono had drilled 4 treys for 14 pts, and racked up 5 rebounds and 3 steals, Speights had 8 and 4 rebounds, Holiday was fantastic with 12, 13 assists, and 7 steals, Iggy was Iggy with 25, 9 assists, and 10 rebounds, and Sammy Dalembert was great off the bench with 14 and 7 rebounds. Put it all together and you an impressive win over the Hawks, especially considering both Lou Williams and Thad Young sat the night out with injuries. You just wonder how much the better the Sixers could have been this year if they had found this lineup sooner and how exciting things could be in the future if they stick with this lineup. For now anyway, the Sixers move to 26-47 overall, still 12th in the East, and 10 games out of 8th, that is just barely alive in the playoff race for another day at least.
Other than the steals the Sixer's defense was just okay, but they came up with 15 steals in all and they made all the difference, as the Sixers were able to get out and run and attack the basket, the two things they must do to succceed. While steals helped the Sixers greatly tonight, their new look lineup, with Mo Speights at center, and Jason Kapono again starting small forward, with Iggy shifted over to shooting guard. All I have to say is where has this lineup been all year, because it perfect tonight. Elton Brand, had 14 and 6 rebounds, Kapono had drilled 4 treys for 14 pts, and racked up 5 rebounds and 3 steals, Speights had 8 and 4 rebounds, Holiday was fantastic with 12, 13 assists, and 7 steals, Iggy was Iggy with 25, 9 assists, and 10 rebounds, and Sammy Dalembert was great off the bench with 14 and 7 rebounds. Put it all together and you an impressive win over the Hawks, especially considering both Lou Williams and Thad Young sat the night out with injuries. You just wonder how much the better the Sixers could have been this year if they had found this lineup sooner and how exciting things could be in the future if they stick with this lineup. For now anyway, the Sixers move to 26-47 overall, still 12th in the East, and 10 games out of 8th, that is just barely alive in the playoff race for another day at least.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils continued spring training today against the Yankees. Jamie Moyer got the start and was brilliant tossing 6 and 1/3rd scoreless innings, while allowing 1 hit, striking out 6, and walking none. Best of all the Phils went on to win 3-0. So Moyer is again the front runner for the number 5 spot in the Phils rotation and in fact he may have already locked up the spot with this one.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers welcomed the Minnesota Wild to the Wachovia center tonight, as they looked to snap a 3 game losing streak. Minnesota has been too good this season, so this was a real opportunity for the Orange and Black, to pickup a desperately needed 2 points and bolster their playoff positioning. For the better part of 3 period it looked like the Flyers would do just that, but unfortunately it wasn't to be. The Flyers jumped out to a quick 2 -0 lead just 4 minutes into the 1st period, with goals by Oscars Bartulis and Simon Gagne. Dan Carcillo scored a little over halfway through the 2nd period to make it 3-1 Orange and Black. 6 minutes into the 3rd period it was still 3-1 Flyers and victory appeared imminent. However, the bottom kinda fell out from under the Flyers from that point on. Brian Boucher's level of play dropped and by the time the 3rd period was 13 minutes old Minnesota had rallied all the way back to tie it at 3.
Form there neither team could score for the remainder of regulation so the game ended going into overtime. There, just 2 and a half minutes in Kyle Brodziak broke the Flyer's hearts, scoring for a 4-3 Wild win. This one is tough to swallow as the Flyers really needed it, had it in their grasp, and ultimately let it slip way. Since they lost in overtime the Flyers do still earn at least a point and remain 7th in the Eastern conference, 4 points up on 9th place Atlanta. This was the kind of effort the Flyers will need the rest of the season, but they have got to learn how to finish. Otherwise their season may not last too much longer.
Form there neither team could score for the remainder of regulation so the game ended going into overtime. There, just 2 and a half minutes in Kyle Brodziak broke the Flyer's hearts, scoring for a 4-3 Wild win. This one is tough to swallow as the Flyers really needed it, had it in their grasp, and ultimately let it slip way. Since they lost in overtime the Flyers do still earn at least a point and remain 7th in the Eastern conference, 4 points up on 9th place Atlanta. This was the kind of effort the Flyers will need the rest of the season, but they have got to learn how to finish. Otherwise their season may not last too much longer.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils continued spring training today against the Houston Astros. Kyle Kendrck and was solid again, allowing just 1 run on 5 and 1/3rd innings, as the Phillies won 8-7. So once Kendrick gets a leg up in the competition for the Phils 5th starter.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
SIXERS NEWS
The Miracle finally happened tonight. The Sixers actually won a game, against a good Eastern conference team, in the Milwaukee Bucks, who came in as the 5th seed in the Eastern conference. Given the Sixer's track record against the top Eastern conference teams this season, there wasn't much hope for them to win tonight. Instead for a change they actually played for it and showed what they're capable of doing when they actually care. They shot 54% from the field with 6 Sixers scoring in double figrues, on a superb night for the Sixer scorers, led by Wille Green and his 16. Thanks to the hot shooting the Sixers were able jump out to a 5 point lead after the 1st quarter, a 13 point lead at half, and an 18 point lead, heading into the 4th quarter. There the Bucks were able to make a final push but the Sixers held them off for a surprising 101-86 win.
for their part the Bucks didn't play that poorly, but they shot just 40% from the field compared to the Sixers 50%, hit just 5 treys, the Sixers actually had more with 6, and were outrebounded by the Sixers 43-37. Basically they played down to the Sixers like the most of top teams in the NBA have against the Sixers this season, but simply weren't good enough to pull it off. Losing games like this that you should win is just one of those things that happens to young teams like Milwaukee, and the Sixers know that all too well by now. While Willie Green was there leading scorer tonight, the Sixers top performer on the night was Sammy Dalembert who tallied another 12 and 10 rebounds on the night. Jrue Holliday was pretty impressive too with 15 and 7 assists, but all in all it was a total team effort for the Sixers tonight and the best they've put forth in some time. So now the Sixers move to 25-47 overall, still good enough for 12th in the East, currently 11 games out of 8th.
for their part the Bucks didn't play that poorly, but they shot just 40% from the field compared to the Sixers 50%, hit just 5 treys, the Sixers actually had more with 6, and were outrebounded by the Sixers 43-37. Basically they played down to the Sixers like the most of top teams in the NBA have against the Sixers this season, but simply weren't good enough to pull it off. Losing games like this that you should win is just one of those things that happens to young teams like Milwaukee, and the Sixers know that all too well by now. While Willie Green was there leading scorer tonight, the Sixers top performer on the night was Sammy Dalembert who tallied another 12 and 10 rebounds on the night. Jrue Holliday was pretty impressive too with 15 and 7 assists, but all in all it was a total team effort for the Sixers tonight and the best they've put forth in some time. So now the Sixers move to 25-47 overall, still good enough for 12th in the East, currently 11 games out of 8th.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils continued spring training today against the Atlanta Braves. J.A Happ got the start and was roughed up a bit, allowing 4 runs on 6 hits, over 5 innings. Meanwhile, Tim Hudson tossed 6 scoreless innings for Atlanta, allowing just 3 hits, as the Braves blanked the Phils 8-0. Again it is only spring training so there is no need to worry to much, but it seems it will be very scary facing the Braves this season, particularly when Hudson is on the mound.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers traveled Ottawa tonight for a key matchup with the Senators, as they looked to snap a 2 game losing streak. Ottawa came into tonight 5th in the Eastern conference, just 2 points ahead of the Flyers. So a win for the Orange and Black in this one could have meant a jump for them from 6th in the East back up to 5th in the East. Unfortunately for the 3rd straight night it just wasn't to be for the Flyers. They played fairly good defense in holding the Sens to just 26 shots on goal and killing off all 7 of their power play opportunities. Brian Boucher was also okay saving 24 of the 26 shots he faced to keep the Orange and Black firmly in it most of the night. Unfortunately, with no Jeff Carter and still a lack of energy in the lineup, the Flyer's couldn't get anything going offensively. They too had just 26 shots on goal and they too had several opportunities to score, with 7 power play chances. In the end though they just couldn't finish off any of their opportunities and it cost them.
Brian Elliot wound up a pitching bag left in a shutout for the Sens, saving all 26 shots he faced. Meanwhile Daniel Alfreddson and Chis Kelly to put Ottawa up 2-0, a lead they would never relinquish en route to the win. So it was another disheartening for the Orange and Black and they desperately need to rebound in their next game or they're chances of making the playoffs could very well completely go up in smoke. For now even with the loss, the Flyers remain 6th in the East, now 4 points out of 5th and just 4 points clear of 9th Atlanta. It is going to be a tough and interesting final week or so of the regular season for the Flyers and you just hope they're still standng at the end of it.
Brian Elliot wound up a pitching bag left in a shutout for the Sens, saving all 26 shots he faced. Meanwhile Daniel Alfreddson and Chis Kelly to put Ottawa up 2-0, a lead they would never relinquish en route to the win. So it was another disheartening for the Orange and Black and they desperately need to rebound in their next game or they're chances of making the playoffs could very well completely go up in smoke. For now even with the loss, the Flyers remain 6th in the East, now 4 points out of 5th and just 4 points clear of 9th Atlanta. It is going to be a tough and interesting final week or so of the regular season for the Flyers and you just hope they're still standng at the end of it.
EAGLES NEWS
The New Orleans Saints finally confirmed today that they will not match the Eagles offer to free agent RB Mike Bell, which means he will be signing with the Birds after all. In his career, when he has played Bell has been a strong RB, good at following his blockers and breaking tackles. He's also a veteran presence in the what would have been a very young backfield for the Birds, with 2nd year man Lesean McCoy leading the way. Now at least he has the veteran Bell to learn from. Speaking of signings the Birds also locked LB Akeem Jordan the other day for 1 year at $1.684 million.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils continued spring training today against the Tampa Rays. Joe Blanton got the start and was solid allowing just 2 runs over 5 and 1/3rd innings. Meanwhile, Ryan Howard slammed 2 solo homers and Jimmy Rollins collected a couple of hits as the Phils rallied to win 4-3.
Monday, March 22, 2010
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers welcomed Dwight "Superman" Howard and the Orlando Magic to the Wachovia center tonight, as they looked to, oh who am I kidding, continue throwing away the rest of their season. In a game pitting two teams heading in opposite directions you wouldn't expect it to be much of a contest. As they have done all season against the NBA's best, the Sixers brought out close to their best in this one, and incredibly managed to hang in there for 3 quarters. They trailed by only 4 after the 1st quarter, 9 at the half, and just 10 heading into the 4th quarter. There Orlando finally pulled away for an easy 16 point, 109-93 win. As usual it was the 3 pointer that killed the Sixers in this one. Orlando shot 51% from beyond the arc and drilled 16 of them, plus Howard was dominant inside with 23 and 15 rebounds, basically everything you don't want to see happen when you're playing the magic. Moreover, the Sixers again failed to attack the basket, not they could have with Howard standing in the middle anyway, and instead attempted to out magic the magic, pounding it inside to Elton Brand and Sammy Dalembert either for an easy basket or a kick out for an open three.
It almost worked as Eddie Jordan was finally smart enough to bring his best 3 point shooter, Jason Kapono, off the bench. In fact Kapono started at small forward for the first time all season, and hit two treys, as the Sixers shot a respectable 42% from the beyond the arc, with 6 treys all together. In the end though, they simply didn't have the firepower to stay with the Magic. They also really didn't make much of an effort to stop the Magic, who as mentioned shot 51% from beyond the arc, and 52% from the field and even 70% from the free throw line, with 30 attempts. Basically Orlando got to do whatever it wanted on offense tonight. The Sixers for their part got impressive performances out of Sammy with 16 and 14 rebounds, Andre Iguodala with 23 , 6 rebounds, and 6 assists, and Brand with 23, but none of it was ever going to be enough to knock off the Magic tonight and I am not sure they really wanted to win anyway. With the loss they drop to 24-47 overall now, still good enough for 12th in the East, but now 12 games out of 8th.
It almost worked as Eddie Jordan was finally smart enough to bring his best 3 point shooter, Jason Kapono, off the bench. In fact Kapono started at small forward for the first time all season, and hit two treys, as the Sixers shot a respectable 42% from the beyond the arc, with 6 treys all together. In the end though, they simply didn't have the firepower to stay with the Magic. They also really didn't make much of an effort to stop the Magic, who as mentioned shot 51% from beyond the arc, and 52% from the field and even 70% from the free throw line, with 30 attempts. Basically Orlando got to do whatever it wanted on offense tonight. The Sixers for their part got impressive performances out of Sammy with 16 and 14 rebounds, Andre Iguodala with 23 , 6 rebounds, and 6 assists, and Brand with 23, but none of it was ever going to be enough to knock off the Magic tonight and I am not sure they really wanted to win anyway. With the loss they drop to 24-47 overall now, still good enough for 12th in the East, but now 12 games out of 8th.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils continued spring training today against the New York Yankees. Cole Hamels got the start and was roughed up allowing 7 runs over 4 innings. Incredibly that didn't cost the Phils the game as Wilson Valdez slammed a game winning 2 run homer in the 9th inning, for a 9-7 win. Hamels says he was just working on some things and is not worried. Considering it is still pretty early in the spring that's good enough for me.
FLYERS NEWS
There was more bad news for the Flyers today as they learned that Jeff Carter is out for the next 3 to 4 weeks with a fractured foot. Considering he was their leading scorer, on a team that has struggled to score at times this season, losing him could be a huge blow to the Flyers chances of wrapping up a playoff spot in the next couple of weeks and frankly getting anywhere if they were to get to the playoffs. On other hand this could be the wake up call the Flyer's needed to get them going down the stretch and make a final push into the playoffs. Only time will tell.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers welcomed the Atlanta Thrashers to the Wachovia center tonight to complete the 2nd half of a home and home with them, as they looked to snap a 2 game losing streak and avoid an Atlanta sweep of the season series between the two teams. While the Orange and Black did put up a much better effort on this night, allowing just 31 shots on goal, while littering the Atlanta goal with 45 shots, it made little difference. Once again the Thrashers jumped out to a quick lead, this time 2-0 just 11 minutes into the game. With 8 minutes to play in the 3rd period Mike Richards finally got the Flyer's on the board, cutting it to 2-1 and briefly restoring hope for an Orange and Black victory. That hope was dashed just 5 minutes later when Rich Pevereley scored to make it 3-1 Atlanta and put the Flyers away for good.
While it was poor defense that doomed the Flyers last night, tonight it was poor play Brian Boucher that killed. As mentioned the Flyer's defense did a decent job holding the quick Thrashers to just 31 shots on goal and killing off all 3 of their power play opportunities. Unfortunately, Boucher failed to handle a couple of pucks he should have been able to, while Atlanta's Ondrej Pavelec, made all the saves he had to, 44 in all, and carried his Thrashers to the 3-1 win. The Flyers also failed to really take advantage of all the scoring opportunities they had, including 3 listless powerplays. Put it all together you've got the Flyer's 3rd straight loss and now a big problem for the Orange and Black. With the loss the Flyers drop to 6th in the Eastern conference, now just 4 games ahead of the 9th place Thrashers, and suddenly are now in danger of the missing the playoffs completely if they don't turn things around and fast. He's hoping they do turn it around again before it's too late or we'll have nothing to watch next month.
While it was poor defense that doomed the Flyers last night, tonight it was poor play Brian Boucher that killed. As mentioned the Flyer's defense did a decent job holding the quick Thrashers to just 31 shots on goal and killing off all 3 of their power play opportunities. Unfortunately, Boucher failed to handle a couple of pucks he should have been able to, while Atlanta's Ondrej Pavelec, made all the saves he had to, 44 in all, and carried his Thrashers to the 3-1 win. The Flyers also failed to really take advantage of all the scoring opportunities they had, including 3 listless powerplays. Put it all together you've got the Flyer's 3rd straight loss and now a big problem for the Orange and Black. With the loss the Flyers drop to 6th in the Eastern conference, now just 4 games ahead of the 9th place Thrashers, and suddenly are now in danger of the missing the playoffs completely if they don't turn things around and fast. He's hoping they do turn it around again before it's too late or we'll have nothing to watch next month.
PHILLIES NEWS
After a bit of rain delay the Phils continued spring training today against the Orioles. Jamie Moyer got the start, his first official spring training start(the rest were in 'B' games), and was solid, allowing just 1 run over 5 innings, while striking out 6 and walking none. Unfortunately the Phils struggled to score once again and lost 5-4. At any rate thought it was an important performance for Moyer which probably put him back in front in the contest for the Phils #5 starting spot.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
FLYERS NEWS
After a rallying from behind again for an important win over the Dallas Stars, the Flyers traveled to Atlanta tonight as they looked to make it two in a row for the 1st time in a while. After dominating Atlanta pretty much ever since they came into the league, the Flyers actually came into tonight winless against the Thrashers on the season. Still with Ilya Kovalchuck now donning Ranger's blue, you would think the Orange and Black would have a much easier time with Altanta in this one, but they didn't. The Thrashers scored twice in the first 6 minutes for a quick 2-0 lead. A few minutes later Dan Carcillo scored to cut it to 2-1. After Atlanta made it 3-1 late in the 2nd period, Blair Betts racked up a rare goal for himself, to cut it to 3-2, but that was as close as the Flyers would get. Atlanta racked up 2 more scores late in the 3rd to send the Orange and Black to another embarrassing late season defeat, this time 5-2.
It was not great night for Brian Boucher, as he allowed all 5 Atanta goals on just 28 shots, but the Flyers' defense wasn't all that great tonight. While they did allow just those 28 shots on goal, too many of them were right in Boucher's face. I mean they really hung him out to dry at times and Frankly, the goalie can only do so much for you. The defense has to help him out at least some of the time. Ever since the they returned from the Olympic break the Flyers have really struggled on defense and they're going to have to figure out at some point soon, or they won't be going very far this season. Despite loss the Flyers remain 5th in the East as everyone else lost tonight as well, but now they're lead over now 9th place Atlanta is just 7. So for now the Orange and Black are still in a pretty comfortable position but they really to clean things up these last couple weeks of the season, if they want to stay there.
It was not great night for Brian Boucher, as he allowed all 5 Atanta goals on just 28 shots, but the Flyers' defense wasn't all that great tonight. While they did allow just those 28 shots on goal, too many of them were right in Boucher's face. I mean they really hung him out to dry at times and Frankly, the goalie can only do so much for you. The defense has to help him out at least some of the time. Ever since the they returned from the Olympic break the Flyers have really struggled on defense and they're going to have to figure out at some point soon, or they won't be going very far this season. Despite loss the Flyers remain 5th in the East as everyone else lost tonight as well, but now they're lead over now 9th place Atlanta is just 7. So for now the Orange and Black are still in a pretty comfortable position but they really to clean things up these last couple weeks of the season, if they want to stay there.
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers welcomed the Chicago Bulls to the Wachovia center tonight as they looked get back on track after blowing a sure victory in New York Knick. Unfortunately they decided not to try once again and Chicago crushed them for the 2nd time in as many meetings between these two teams. Lou Williams played just 11 minutes before leaving with back spasms and Elton Brand, although healthy, played just 17 minutes and benched in 4th quarter, after going 1 for 4 from the field for 2 points. Andre Iguodala played a litttle more normal 25 minutes, but he was an awful 3 of 11 from the field for just 11 points. Incredibly among the Sixer's starters on the night, Samuel Dalembert was leading scorer with 16. Considering Sammy is usually the 5th and final option on offense, it is generally a bad sign when he's the leading scorer. You're just not going to win too often relying on Sammy to lead the way. Aside from relying on Sammy the Sixers also failed to again to attack basket, instead settling for jumpers on one possession after another, not good considering they went just 1 of 17 from beyond and shot only 40% from the field overall.
By the comparison the Bulls didn't play all that great either, but they were actually trying to win and they did by 14, 98-84, after a holding off a late and pretty much meaningless Sixer run. It was too late to suddenly make a run, and there was no way they were going to catch Chicago at that point anyway. Other than Sammy, the other bright spots for the Sixers Jrue Holiday who was impressive again with 10 and 10 rebounds, and Mo Speights who had his best game in some time with a Sixers high 17 and 11 rebounds. Other than that there was little to cheer about for the Sixers tonight and at this point it doesn't appear there were will be much to cheer about for the remainder of the season. With the loss the Sixers drop to 24-46 overall, but remain 11th in the East, 11 games out of 8th.
By the comparison the Bulls didn't play all that great either, but they were actually trying to win and they did by 14, 98-84, after a holding off a late and pretty much meaningless Sixer run. It was too late to suddenly make a run, and there was no way they were going to catch Chicago at that point anyway. Other than Sammy, the other bright spots for the Sixers Jrue Holiday who was impressive again with 10 and 10 rebounds, and Mo Speights who had his best game in some time with a Sixers high 17 and 11 rebounds. Other than that there was little to cheer about for the Sixers tonight and at this point it doesn't appear there were will be much to cheer about for the remainder of the season. With the loss the Sixers drop to 24-46 overall, but remain 11th in the East, 11 games out of 8th.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils continued spring training today against the Detroit Tigers. Roy Halladay got the start and allowed 3 runs on 6 hits over 5 innings as the Phils fell 3-0. Obviously Roy can't be perfect every time out, and if giving up just a few runs is a bad day for him than there's nothing to be worried about.
Friday, March 19, 2010
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers traveled to New York tonight for a matchup with the Knicks as they actually looked to make it two in a row. The Knicks have been about as awful as the Sixers this season so if they wanted to the Sixers should have been able to take this one easily. Early on it certainly looked like they wanted it as they jumped out to an 11 point lead after the 1st quarter. New York then rallied back to within 4 at the half. The two teams spent the 3rd quarter trading baskets, with the Sixers clinging to a 3 point lead heading into the 4th. It was there in the 4th quarter that Sixers suddenly looked like they didn't want it so much after all. With 1:48 left they had a 1 point lead with the score 86-85, but it all went down hill from there. Elton Brand missed a long jumper, the Knick's Tony Douglas hit a couple free throws, stole the ball from Jrue Holiday, and the New York hit a couple more free throws and that was about it as they hung on to win 92-88.
The shame of it is that New York did everything possible to lose. Both of their centers, Eddy Curry and David Lee were out for the night with injuries, as well starting power forward Wilson Chandler, Jonathan Bender who started at center for New York in this one, broke his finger just 9 minutes into the game. So New York had no one on the court taller than 6-10 Danillo Gallinari, plus their top guards, Eddie House and Cutino Mobley were both out with injuries as well, leaving rookie, Tony Douglas, to start at point guard. Basically New York had played most of the night with just 8 players, while the Sixers had virtually their entire complement of players, minus Thaddeus Young, even Mo Speights came off injured reserve tonight. On top of all that Tracy Mcgrady was garbage tonight going 0 for 7 from the field, as the Knicks shot just 36% as a team, to the Sixers 42%. All of which makes it incredible that the Sixers lost tonight and makes it obvious what is going on. The Sixers are trying to lose now.
They should have been able to dominate the glass tonight, instead New York out rebounded them easily 50-37. They should have been to drive to the basket for easy hoops, instead they settled for one jumper after another, and stunk it up enough for New York to steal it at the end. Perhaps most amazing for New York tonight was Douglas, who made just his 6th start of the season tonight. While T-Mac was garbage all night he was money with 22, and 5 rebounds, including 4 three pointers, in leading the Knicks to the win. For the Sixers Andre Iguodala and Elton Brand were solid as usual with 17 and 19 respectively, while Holiday continued his impressive play 15 and 8 rebounds. Lou Williams also added 14 off the bench and Jason Kapono came off the pine to drill 3 treys and rack up 11 on the night, which kind of makes you wonder why he's been sitting on the bench all season. Anyway with the loss the Sixers drop to 24-45 overall which is still good enough for 11th in the East, but now 10 games out of 8th.
The shame of it is that New York did everything possible to lose. Both of their centers, Eddy Curry and David Lee were out for the night with injuries, as well starting power forward Wilson Chandler, Jonathan Bender who started at center for New York in this one, broke his finger just 9 minutes into the game. So New York had no one on the court taller than 6-10 Danillo Gallinari, plus their top guards, Eddie House and Cutino Mobley were both out with injuries as well, leaving rookie, Tony Douglas, to start at point guard. Basically New York had played most of the night with just 8 players, while the Sixers had virtually their entire complement of players, minus Thaddeus Young, even Mo Speights came off injured reserve tonight. On top of all that Tracy Mcgrady was garbage tonight going 0 for 7 from the field, as the Knicks shot just 36% as a team, to the Sixers 42%. All of which makes it incredible that the Sixers lost tonight and makes it obvious what is going on. The Sixers are trying to lose now.
They should have been able to dominate the glass tonight, instead New York out rebounded them easily 50-37. They should have been to drive to the basket for easy hoops, instead they settled for one jumper after another, and stunk it up enough for New York to steal it at the end. Perhaps most amazing for New York tonight was Douglas, who made just his 6th start of the season tonight. While T-Mac was garbage all night he was money with 22, and 5 rebounds, including 4 three pointers, in leading the Knicks to the win. For the Sixers Andre Iguodala and Elton Brand were solid as usual with 17 and 19 respectively, while Holiday continued his impressive play 15 and 8 rebounds. Lou Williams also added 14 off the bench and Jason Kapono came off the pine to drill 3 treys and rack up 11 on the night, which kind of makes you wonder why he's been sitting on the bench all season. Anyway with the loss the Sixers drop to 24-45 overall which is still good enough for 11th in the East, but now 10 games out of 8th.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils continued spring training today against the Orioles. Kyle Kendrick got the start and was solid allowing 2 runs on 3 hits, while striking out 4 in 5 innings. Unfortunately, the Phils could only muster 1 hit on the day and fell to Baltimore 2-0. Regardless it was still a pretty good day for Kendrick in his quest to unseat Jamie Moyer as the Phils #5 starter.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers continued their road trip in Dallas tonight with a matchup against the Stars. After a close shootout loss to the Nashville Predators the Orange and Black needed a win tonight to keep their playoff ambitions on track. With Micheal Leighton out now for 8-10 weeks with a high ankle sprain, that didn't figure to be an easy task though. Fortunately, Brian Boucher stepped with 27 saves out of the 29 shots he faced. The Flyers' defense played pretty well too to really help Boucher out. They allowed just those 29 shots on goal and committed just 3 penalties that resulted in Dallas power plays, killing off all but one of Dallas' man advantages. In fact, after jumping out to a 2-1 lead in the 1st period, Dallas never scored again. So when they really needed it the Flyer defense stepped up big time, and they'll have to keep doing it to protect Boucher. While Dallas fizzled out after the 1st period the Flyers kept going until victory was assured.
First Simon Gagne scored late in the 1st period to keep it close, at 2-1 Dallas. Early in the 2nd period, off an assist from Gagne, Mike Richards knotted it up at 2. Finally early in the 3rd period Scott Hartnell scored for a 3-2 lead. From there in the final 13 minutes, Boucher made sure that lead held up with some impressive saves down the stretch, including a kick save with 5 seconds to play, that preserved the 3-2 Orange and Black. So now the Flyers have 79 points overall and jump to 5th in the Eastern conference. Considering they have owned the 4th seeded Devils this season it would be nice if they could hold that spot, but we'll see.
First Simon Gagne scored late in the 1st period to keep it close, at 2-1 Dallas. Early in the 2nd period, off an assist from Gagne, Mike Richards knotted it up at 2. Finally early in the 3rd period Scott Hartnell scored for a 3-2 lead. From there in the final 13 minutes, Boucher made sure that lead held up with some impressive saves down the stretch, including a kick save with 5 seconds to play, that preserved the 3-2 Orange and Black. So now the Flyers have 79 points overall and jump to 5th in the Eastern conference. Considering they have owned the 4th seeded Devils this season it would be nice if they could hold that spot, but we'll see.
EAGLES NEWS
The Eagles stayed busy today announcing the release of WR Kevin Curtis and Defensive Lineman Darren Howard. Both Curtis and Howard are aging veterans who were due to earn more from the Eagles next season than they are truly worth at this point. So this is not a huge surprise. The Eagles already a full collection of young receivers, so they didn't really need Curtis wasting space anymore. Even without Howard the Eagles still have plenty of depth on the defensive lineman, but they'll probably have to go after someone in the draft now, to replace Howard's pass rushing ability.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers weclomed the New Jersey Nets to the Wachovia center tonight as they looked to snap a 5 game losing streak. The Nets have won just 7 games all season, two less than the Sixers NBA record low 9 in 1973. So the Sixers needed a win to move one step closer from removing that distinction from the record books. Thanks to the Nets being well, the Nets tonight the Sixers were able to get the victory. There's really not much to talk about. It was just another awful night for the Nets. Even the Sixers can't screw up enough to lose to the Nets. New Jersey shot just 41% from the field while allowing the Sixers to shoot 56% from the field and rack up 108 points, and that's without Thaddeus Young who sat out with a thumb fracture. The Sixers also outrebounded the Nets 41-36, as part of a solid defensive effort, not a great effort, but good enough against the Nets. Anyway so the Sixers took advantage of the lax Net defense to jump out to a 10 point lead after a quarter of play.By the half they were up by 12 and by the 4th quarter they led by 14. After fending off one last tiny push by the Nets, they eventually hung on to win by 11, 108-97.
Andre Iguodala, was the man of hour for the Sixers tonight with 20 and 8 assists. He was just part of the story though as the 7 Sixers scored in double figures. Only 10 Sixers actually played in the game. So nearly every Sixer who touched the ball had at least 10 points, pretty remarkable if you ask me, or at least it would be against anyone except the Nets. Besides Andre, Elton Brand put up 12 and 8 rebounds, Sammy Dalembert put 10 and 9 rebounds, Jrue Holiday was impressive with 19, 7 assists, and 7 rebounds , and finally Willie Green, Lou Williams off the bench, and Rodney Carney all put up 11. With the win the Sixers clinched a sweep of their season series with the Nets this season, and that after New Jersey had swept the season series last year. With the win the Sixers improve to 24-44 overall, good enough now for 11th in the East, 10 games out of 8th.
Andre Iguodala, was the man of hour for the Sixers tonight with 20 and 8 assists. He was just part of the story though as the 7 Sixers scored in double figures. Only 10 Sixers actually played in the game. So nearly every Sixer who touched the ball had at least 10 points, pretty remarkable if you ask me, or at least it would be against anyone except the Nets. Besides Andre, Elton Brand put up 12 and 8 rebounds, Sammy Dalembert put 10 and 9 rebounds, Jrue Holiday was impressive with 19, 7 assists, and 7 rebounds , and finally Willie Green, Lou Williams off the bench, and Rodney Carney all put up 11. With the win the Sixers clinched a sweep of their season series with the Nets this season, and that after New Jersey had swept the season series last year. With the win the Sixers improve to 24-44 overall, good enough now for 11th in the East, 10 games out of 8th.
EAGLES NEWS
The stayed busy today announcing they were releasing guard Shawn Andrews. Andrews was a pro bowler for the Birds in 05 and and 06. In 08 he hurt his back not too far into the season and things were never the same with him again. He missed the rest of that season and all of last season. Apparently the Eagles's were tied of waiting for him to get healthy. They should be fine without him, plus they still have possession of his brother, Stacy Andrews, who missed most of last season as well. Either he or someone else can definitely make up for the absence of his brother
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils continued spring training today against the Yankees. Joe Blanton got the start and went 5 innings, allowing just 2 runs on 7 hits. Meanwhile, Jayson Werth slammed a 2 run homer and the Phils went on to win 6-2.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers continued their road trip in Nashville tonight with a matchup against the Predators. After a disheartening loss to the Rangers in their last game the Flyers really need this one to get back on track. Things started well wiith Jeff Carter scoring just a minute and 21 seconds into the 1st period for a 1-0 lead. Nashville than picked it up while the Flyers faltered, scoring 3 quick goals to finish the period up 3 -1. Just seconds after the 3rd goal, things got even worse as Micheal Leighton went down with a high ankle sprain, forcing Brian Boucher into emergency service. Surprisingly Boucher faired well with 24 saves in a row, to keep Nashville scoreless for the remainder of regulation. So it was still 3-1 heading into the 3rd period. As they have seemingly every other night since the olympic break, the Flyers simply found a way to get back in it in the 3rd.
First Simon Gagne scored with 9 minutes to play to cut it to 3-2. Then with about 6 minutes Chris Pronger scored an easy power play goal, his 50th point of the season, to knot it up at 3. From there Flyers couldn't get another in the net for the remainder of regulation and an overtime period so the game went into a shootout. Generally a shootout means certain doom for the Orange and Black and unfortunately it did again tonight. For the Flyers Mike Richards, Claude Giroux, and Danny Briere all failed to score, while Martin Erat scored in the 2nd round of the shootout to all but put away a 4-3 Nashvillw win. Still the Flyers did earn a poiint for their troubles and so with 77 points overall now, they drop to 7th in the East, but 6 points up on the 9th place Rangers. Thus, for now anyway the Flyers remain in a comfortable position to make the playoffs but it is going to be tought down the stretch without Leighton if he can't come back before long.
First Simon Gagne scored with 9 minutes to play to cut it to 3-2. Then with about 6 minutes Chris Pronger scored an easy power play goal, his 50th point of the season, to knot it up at 3. From there Flyers couldn't get another in the net for the remainder of regulation and an overtime period so the game went into a shootout. Generally a shootout means certain doom for the Orange and Black and unfortunately it did again tonight. For the Flyers Mike Richards, Claude Giroux, and Danny Briere all failed to score, while Martin Erat scored in the 2nd round of the shootout to all but put away a 4-3 Nashvillw win. Still the Flyers did earn a poiint for their troubles and so with 77 points overall now, they drop to 7th in the East, but 6 points up on the 9th place Rangers. Thus, for now anyway the Flyers remain in a comfortable position to make the playoffs but it is going to be tought down the stretch without Leighton if he can't come back before long.
EAGLES NEWS
The Birds finally got busy today, First they signed RB Mike Bell to a one year offer sheet for $1.7 million. The Saints, for whom Bell is a restricted free agent now have a week to match the Eagles offer. From the Bell signing the Eagles jumped right into a trade with the Seattle Seahawks, sending DE Chris Clemons and a 4th round pick to Seattle for former star Virginia Tech DE Daryl Tapp. The Eagles have been looking for a pass rusher to pair up on the opposite side of field from Trent Cole, and Tapp might just be it. For the Seahawks he started as a rookie in 2007 and racked up 7 sacks and 177 tackles. He played less in 2008 with just 5 sacks and still less last year with just 2 sacks, but that was in the middle of a coaching staff change from Mike Holmgren in 2007, to Jim Mora Jr last year. For some reason Mora's staff didn't like Tapp the way Holmgren had and so he fell out of favor and got less playing time. Here he'll be well liked and the Eagles should give him plenty of playing time and room to grow. He's only 25 so he has time to improve and he fits well in the Eagle's defensive scheme. So who knows, he could end up being a steal. I for one know that I didn't think Trent Cole would be as good as he is when he replaced Jevon Kearse in the starting lineup. Why can't Tapp have the same kind of rise to Eagles stardom.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils continued spring training today against the Detroit Tigers. Cole Hamels got the start and went 5 innings, allowing just 1 run on 2 hits while striking out 4. Meanwhile future star Domonic Brown crushed two long homers and knocked in 4 runs, while Ryan Howard slammed his first long ball of the spring for a 6-1 win. It's great to see Cole pitching so well again and it looks like Brown is going to be good a one someday, just not this season as he heads back to AA for now to begin the year.
Monday, March 15, 2010
SIXERS NEWS
The Flyers welcomed the New York Knicks to the wachovia center tonight, as they looked to snap a 3 game losing streak. For a while it looked like they would do just that. They came out firing and took an 11 point lead into the half with Jrue Holiday lighting up the scoreboard. Unfortunately someone turned off the switch after that. I mean everything just came to an abrupt hault for the Sixers in the 2nd half, as they went cold from the floor and were outscored by New York 50-29, to to turn an 11 point lead into a 10 point deficit and eventually a 10 point, 94-84 loss. In the end their awful second half, dropped their shooting percentage to just 38 % from the field, and 24 % from beyond, while chucking up 25 treys. By the end they couldn't even hit free throws shooting just 57% from the line as a team. Perhaps most damning is that they endured all this offensive futility despite out rebounding New York but nearly 20, and not having a single shot blocked all night long.
Thus they could have and should have won this one easily. The effort was there from them as usual but their will wasn't and so it seems almost official at this point that they have given up on this season. Speaking of effort, Holiday provided the best for the Sixers tonight with 18, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists. Andre Iguodala with 14 and 17 rebounds, and Samuel Dalembert with 11 and 18 rebounds weren't too shabby either. Willie Green also dropped in 17 off bench for a nice effort, but Elton Brand was awful with just 7 point and 3 rebounds, Thad Young was worse with just 6 and 2 rebounds and Lou Williams sat the night out with lower back pain(yeah right). That kind of play from those two and Lou sitting on the bench is not going to get the Sixers back in the win column anytime soon. In fact it may not be long before a few other guys join Lou on the bench, which is a shame really, but what else can the Sixers really do at this point. Anyway with the loss the Sixers drop to 23-44 overall, still enough for 12th in the East, but now 10 games out of 8th.
Thus they could have and should have won this one easily. The effort was there from them as usual but their will wasn't and so it seems almost official at this point that they have given up on this season. Speaking of effort, Holiday provided the best for the Sixers tonight with 18, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists. Andre Iguodala with 14 and 17 rebounds, and Samuel Dalembert with 11 and 18 rebounds weren't too shabby either. Willie Green also dropped in 17 off bench for a nice effort, but Elton Brand was awful with just 7 point and 3 rebounds, Thad Young was worse with just 6 and 2 rebounds and Lou Williams sat the night out with lower back pain(yeah right). That kind of play from those two and Lou sitting on the bench is not going to get the Sixers back in the win column anytime soon. In fact it may not be long before a few other guys join Lou on the bench, which is a shame really, but what else can the Sixers really do at this point. Anyway with the loss the Sixers drop to 23-44 overall, still enough for 12th in the East, but now 10 games out of 8th.
PHILLIES NEWS
Jamie Moyer struggled a bot today in his 3rd start of the spring, allowing 5 runs on 8 hits in the just 3 innings of work. Maybe there isn't much of a contest for the Phils number #5 starting spot after all.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
FLYERS NEWS
After winning a thriller last night the Flyers jumped on a train to New York this morning for a key afternoon matchup with the Rangers, who are currently 9th in the East. Thus, a win in this one would have given the Flyers more breathing room in the Eastern conference playoff race, and meant less win until they clinch a playoff spot. Unfortunately, they Orange and Black had a little trouble on the train on the way to the game and apparently they gave out pretty much all the energy they had to win last night. Peter Lavoliette also made the curious decision to bench Daroll Powe and Ville Leino, in favor of Aaron Asham and ex enforcer Riley Cote who hadn't played in over 30 games. Apparently he did so to counteract the decision by the Rangers to dress pest Sean Avery and occasional Ranger enforcer Jody Shelley. The move backfired as the Flyers focused a little too much on engaging the Rangers and trying to get Avery out of the game. As a result Avery was able to draw a couple of Flyer's penalties and turn them into game changing goals.
The Flyers actually led early 1-0 on a Danny Briere power play goal, but thanks Avery New York rallied ahead 2-1 in the 2nd period. From there fatigue seemed to set in for the Flyers as they coudn't get anything going in the 3rd period. They tried put together a few rushes into the New York zone and they had a couple power play opportunities, but none of it amounted to much. The Orange and Black just looked totally gassed through all of it and wound up with only 5 shots on goal. They just didn't seem to have enough left in the tank to sustain anything. Somehow, thanks to the superb play of Micheal Leighton they hung in there, until there were about 6 minutes to play. Then you guessed it, Avery scored on a power play to put them away 3-1. So in all it was a disheartening way to follow such a thrilling victory, but not the end of the world either. Even with the loss the Flyers are still 6th in the East, but now they have only 5 point cushion over the Rangers so they'll have to work just a little harder to lock up a playoff berth.
The Flyers actually led early 1-0 on a Danny Briere power play goal, but thanks Avery New York rallied ahead 2-1 in the 2nd period. From there fatigue seemed to set in for the Flyers as they coudn't get anything going in the 3rd period. They tried put together a few rushes into the New York zone and they had a couple power play opportunities, but none of it amounted to much. The Orange and Black just looked totally gassed through all of it and wound up with only 5 shots on goal. They just didn't seem to have enough left in the tank to sustain anything. Somehow, thanks to the superb play of Micheal Leighton they hung in there, until there were about 6 minutes to play. Then you guessed it, Avery scored on a power play to put them away 3-1. So in all it was a disheartening way to follow such a thrilling victory, but not the end of the world either. Even with the loss the Flyers are still 6th in the East, but now they have only 5 point cushion over the Rangers so they'll have to work just a little harder to lock up a playoff berth.
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers traveled to Miami tonight for a matchup with Dwayne Wade and Miami Heat, as they looked to snap a 3 game losing streak. Coming off a close call against the Cleveland Cavaliers in their last game you would think maybe the Sixers would be extra motivated in this one, but they weren't really. Their defense wasn't very good again, although they did outrebound Miami 46-44, they didn't really get too many stops. Likewise on the other side of the floor they shot just 37% from the field. So on the whole it was another lackluster Sixer's performance. The one bright spot was from beyond the arc, where they shot 45% with 11 threes and that alone kept them in game. In fact Jason Kapono, yes Kapono, actually 3 treys and score 17 on the night, by far his best performance of the season. Jrue Holiday was even more impressive, going 4 for 5 from beyond for all 12 of his points. Thanks to all those threes the Sixers were actually within 5 heading into the 4th quarter.
After falling behind by 16 by the halfway point of the 4th, they were able the three to pull back within 6 with 3 minutes to play. Kapono then missed a three, and Miami put togther back to back baskets, including a 3 point play by Wade to push the lead back 11 and that was about all she wrote. Sixers never got any closer, as Miami eventually hung on to win by 13, 104-91. Ultimately, Wade who poured in 38, proved too much for the Sixers to handle, and frankly the Sixers just aren't a good enough 3 point shooting team to rely on it like they did tonight. The fact that they did rely on it so much, makes you wonder whether they're hearts were really in it tonight. Anyway with the loss the Sixers drop to 23-43 overall, now 12th in the East, 9.5 games out of 8th. So it sure seems like they have given up on this season and I don't blame them if they have.
After falling behind by 16 by the halfway point of the 4th, they were able the three to pull back within 6 with 3 minutes to play. Kapono then missed a three, and Miami put togther back to back baskets, including a 3 point play by Wade to push the lead back 11 and that was about all she wrote. Sixers never got any closer, as Miami eventually hung on to win by 13, 104-91. Ultimately, Wade who poured in 38, proved too much for the Sixers to handle, and frankly the Sixers just aren't a good enough 3 point shooting team to rely on it like they did tonight. The fact that they did rely on it so much, makes you wonder whether they're hearts were really in it tonight. Anyway with the loss the Sixers drop to 23-43 overall, now 12th in the East, 9.5 games out of 8th. So it sure seems like they have given up on this season and I don't blame them if they have.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils continued spring training today against the Baltimore Orioles. Kyle Kendrick got the start and continued to impress going 4 scoreless innings, while allowing just 2 hits. Unfortunately, the Phils still lost 4-3, but it was still a heck of an effort by Kendrick as he continues to battle with Jamie Moyer for the 5th spot in the Phil starting rotation.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers welcomed the Chicago Blackhawks to the wachovia center tonight as they looked to rebound from an embarrassing loss to the Boston Bruins in their last game. Chicago came in with the 2nd best record in the western conference, so the chances of the Orange and Black getting back on track tonight seemed slim. That's why they play the games though. For the first 2 periods neither team could get on board, as Cristobal Huet and Micheal Leighton both made some incredible saves down the stretch of the 2nd during a 4 0n 4. A litte over a minute into the 3rd period Simon Gagne finally broke through for a 1-0 lead. A couple minutes later Kris Versteeg answered on the power play to tie it at 1. With a little under 9 minutes to play Marian Hossa scored to put Chicago up 2-1. It was still 2-1 with about 2 minutes to play as Kimmo Timonen fired a pass for his own end all the way down the ice to an open Scott Hartnell who muscled one in to tie it at 2.
From there both goaltenders looked too sharp to keep the game from going into overtime, but with about 15 seconds to play the Flyers started one last rush into the Chicago zone. Claude Giroux took the puck zone with Scott Hartnell and Chris Pronger in front of him. He held it for a minute then flicked a perfect pass to Pronger, who in one motion slapped a high shot passed a diving Huet, and into the net for the scoooooooooorrrrrrreeeee!. So just like that the Orange and Black got themselves a thrilling 3-2 win over the Blackhawks. On the whole Leighton had an outstanding night with 39 saves out of the 41 shots he faced. Sure 41 shots is a lot and the Flyer's defense could definitely have been a bit better, but if Leighton can keep playing like that they won't need to be better. Besides, they did at least hold the Hawks top scorers, Patrick Kane, Patrick Sharp, and Jonathan Toews to a combined 7 shots and no points.
For Kane it was the first time in 9 games that he failed to register a point. So in that sense it was a good defensive effort for the Orange and Black and one heck of a memorable win. With the win the Orange and Black now have 76 points overall and remain 6th in the Eastern conference.
From there both goaltenders looked too sharp to keep the game from going into overtime, but with about 15 seconds to play the Flyers started one last rush into the Chicago zone. Claude Giroux took the puck zone with Scott Hartnell and Chris Pronger in front of him. He held it for a minute then flicked a perfect pass to Pronger, who in one motion slapped a high shot passed a diving Huet, and into the net for the scoooooooooorrrrrrreeeee!. So just like that the Orange and Black got themselves a thrilling 3-2 win over the Blackhawks. On the whole Leighton had an outstanding night with 39 saves out of the 41 shots he faced. Sure 41 shots is a lot and the Flyer's defense could definitely have been a bit better, but if Leighton can keep playing like that they won't need to be better. Besides, they did at least hold the Hawks top scorers, Patrick Kane, Patrick Sharp, and Jonathan Toews to a combined 7 shots and no points.
For Kane it was the first time in 9 games that he failed to register a point. So in that sense it was a good defensive effort for the Orange and Black and one heck of a memorable win. With the win the Orange and Black now have 76 points overall and remain 6th in the Eastern conference.
PHILLIES NEWS
J.A Happ as impressive today, tossing 4 shutout innings, allowing 1 hit and striking out 3 in a 5-4 win over the Minnesota Twins. I know it is still early, but boy does the Phils starting pitching look good this year.
Friday, March 12, 2010
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers welcomed Lebron and the Cavs to the Wachovia center tonight as they looked to snap a 2 game losing streak. Surprisingly they almost did against the team with the best record in the NBA, but it wasn't to be. Instead of settling for jumpers they actually attacked the basket for a change and wound up with 66 points in the paint against the taller, stronger Cavs. They even outrebounded Cleveland 44-36, and they turned the ball over just 9 times, much better then their last couple games against weaker competition. In the end, while the Sixers did play some much improved basketball, Cleveland also didn't offer their best effort and they didn't have to. Otherwise this one probably wouldn't have been close. Instead thanks to their conceited effort to attack the basket, Andre Iguodala had 30, 5 assists, and 7 rebounds, Elton Brand dropped in 24 and 9 rebounds, Thad Young chipped in with a big 15 off the bench, and the Sixers kept things close until the end.
They actually led by 1 heading into the 4th quarter, but it wasn't long before Cleveland was safely ahead again. Still with 9 and then 6 minutes to play the Sixers were still within 5 and with 24 seconds left they were within 3, at 98-95. Unfortunately, on the ensuing Sixer's possession, Jrue Holiday drove to the basket and threw the ball away. It was only his 4th turnover of the night, against 8 assists, but an obvious rookie mistake. Cleveland then hit its free throws and hung on to win by 5, 100-95. So it was a pretty good effort for the Sixers' tonight against the NBA's best, but its hard to know what to make of it. It makes you wonder why they don't play this attacking game more often. It really is there best often and if their effort tonight is any indication it could easily bring wins against all those teams in the Eastern conference and the rest of NBA for that matter, who aren't nearly as good as Cleveland.
On other hand this hole night was really made possible more by Cleveland not putting out its best effort than by the Sixers putting out their best. So maybe playing this attacking game and putting this kind of effort every night won't make much of a difference anyway. Who knows? All I know now is that Sixers are now just 23-42 overall, still somehow as high as 11th in the East, and now a full 10 games out 8th.
They actually led by 1 heading into the 4th quarter, but it wasn't long before Cleveland was safely ahead again. Still with 9 and then 6 minutes to play the Sixers were still within 5 and with 24 seconds left they were within 3, at 98-95. Unfortunately, on the ensuing Sixer's possession, Jrue Holiday drove to the basket and threw the ball away. It was only his 4th turnover of the night, against 8 assists, but an obvious rookie mistake. Cleveland then hit its free throws and hung on to win by 5, 100-95. So it was a pretty good effort for the Sixers' tonight against the NBA's best, but its hard to know what to make of it. It makes you wonder why they don't play this attacking game more often. It really is there best often and if their effort tonight is any indication it could easily bring wins against all those teams in the Eastern conference and the rest of NBA for that matter, who aren't nearly as good as Cleveland.
On other hand this hole night was really made possible more by Cleveland not putting out its best effort than by the Sixers putting out their best. So maybe playing this attacking game and putting this kind of effort every night won't make much of a difference anyway. Who knows? All I know now is that Sixers are now just 23-42 overall, still somehow as high as 11th in the East, and now a full 10 games out 8th.
EAGLES NEWS
The Birds stayed busy today adding another weapon to their offense, or should I bringing one back. That's right the biscuit is back in the Baskett, that is Hank Baskett is back with the Birds. I don't think I have to tell you what kind of player is or how he can help the already loaded Eagles' offense. He's back basically because the Eagles never wanted to give him up. They did so only because they couldn't get rid of Reggie Brown until now and obviously there wasn't room for both of them last year. I am not sure if I am happy he's back, but I would rather have him than Reggie, so I guess that's something.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils would have continued with spring training today but they got washed out by the same storm that is in our area now.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers welcomed the Boston Bruins to the Wachovia center tonight as they looked to put together back to back wins. Unfortunately, tonight just wasn't their night. They just almost totally collapsed on defense, allowing 37 shots on goal, many at point blank range. As a result, before the 2nd period was even 12 minutes old, Boston was up 4-1 and Micheal Leighton was out of game and watching from the bench for the rest of the night. Brian Boucher didn't fare much better than Leighton allowing a 5th goal late in the 3rd period to cap off a embarrassing 5-1 loss to the Bruins. The lone bright spot of the night for the Orange and Black was Jeff Carter, whose power play goal tied things up just a few seconds into the 2nd period. It was all Boston there on out though.
You're just not going too win many nights, playing Defense like the Flyer's did tonight. They have got to figure out what's been going on with their defense since returning from the Olympic break or they won't be in a comfortable playoff position for much longer. I mean you know your defense was very good, when you committ one penalty all night long, kill it off, and still manage to allow 5 goals. The Orange and Black had won 5 in a row coming in, so this loss really hurts the momentum they had built up on home ice. With the loss the Flyers drop into a tie for 6th in the Eastern conference and are now just 2 points up on the 8th place Bruins, not nearly as comfortable a position as they were in just a few days ago. I guess that's what losing does to you sometimes, huh.
You're just not going too win many nights, playing Defense like the Flyer's did tonight. They have got to figure out what's been going on with their defense since returning from the Olympic break or they won't be in a comfortable playoff position for much longer. I mean you know your defense was very good, when you committ one penalty all night long, kill it off, and still manage to allow 5 goals. The Orange and Black had won 5 in a row coming in, so this loss really hurts the momentum they had built up on home ice. With the loss the Flyers drop into a tie for 6th in the Eastern conference and are now just 2 points up on the 8th place Bruins, not nearly as comfortable a position as they were in just a few days ago. I guess that's what losing does to you sometimes, huh.
EAGLES NEWS
The Eagles added another free agent today, signing ex Air Force reciever/returner Chad Hall to a 2 3 year deal. Hall is a versatile offensive weapon, who played a running back, reciever, and returner for Air Force. With Reggie Brown out of town finally, the Birds needed someone to replace him. Hall, could be the guy to do so. Plus, you can never have too many weapons on offense.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils continued spring training today against the Detroit Tigers. In his 2nd start of the spring, Joe Blanton tossed 4 scoreless inningsen route to a 4-0 Phils win. Not a bad day for Joe if I may say so myself.
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