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Stay Tuned: Week of November 4th
By Brett Malamud
This is the first of a weekly article that will provide you with the most intriguing games in sports for the upcoming week. If yesterday’s football games proved anything, it was that this is going to be an exciting week in sports. So let’s get to it! Here is the first installment of Stay Tuned:
NBA:
With the first week in the books, the second week of the NBA season looks to be just as exciting.
Chicago Bulls vs. Indiana Pacers, Wednesday November 6th 7:00 PM EST, ESPN
Two of the top teams in the Eastern Conference square off in a showdown in Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Derek Rose goes head to head against Paul George and the undefeated Indiana Pacers. This one is a must watch.
LA Clippers vs. Miami Heat, Thursday November 7th 7:00 PM EST, TNT and TSN
The Clippers head into South Beach after the Heat’s rough week last week. The Heat opened up the season going 2-2, and they’ll try to pick up the pace moving forward.
The Heat will try to stop Blake Griffin and the Clippers on Thursday (Via The Smoking Section)
NHL:
Division standings are starting to take form, as we are now one month into the season.
NY Islanders vs. Washington Capitals Tuesday November 5th 7:00 PM EST, MSG+ and CSN-DC
Two of the brightest stars in the NHL will face off in this epic battle at the Verizon Center. John Tavares leads the Islanders into Washington, where Alex Ovechkin and the Capitals sit at .500 on the season. Only one point separates the teams in the standings, so it should be a good battle.
Pittsburgh Penguins vs. NY Rangers, Wednesday November 6th 7:30 PM EST, NBCSN, TSN2, and RDS2
The Rangers and the Penguins have had bad blood for a while now, and Wednesday night should be no different. Watch these division rivals square off and Madison Square Garden come alive in this week’s Wednesday Night Rivalry.
Evgeni Malkin hopes to put the puck past Henrik Lundqvist in a battle at the Garden on Wednesday (Via Last Word On Sports)
Montreal Canadians vs. Ottawa Senators, Thursday November 7th 7:00 PM EST, CBC and RDS
There’s nothing as wild as a Canadian clash. The Habs head to the capital city to take on Erik Karlsson and the Senators. A must watch game in Canada.
NCAA Basketball:
This Friday marks the start of the college basketball season and there are a few games to stay updated on.
(18) UConn vs. Maryland, Friday November 8th 6:30 PM EST, ESPN2
This is sure to be a good game at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. A small Maryland team took a hit, losing 7’1” center Alex Len. The Phoenix Suns selected Len fifth overall in this year’s NBA draft. Maryland will face a tough test though, going up against a much bigger UConn Huskies team.
Barclays Center will be the site for this Friday’s showdown between Maryland and UConn. (Via AP)
Georgetown vs. (19) Oregon, Friday November 8th 8:00 PM EST, ESPN
Coming off a first round loss to Cinderella story Florida Gulf Coast in last season’s NCAA tournament, it’ll be interesting to see Georgetown without Otto Porter, who was selected by the Washington Wizards as the third overall pick in this year’s NBA Draft. They face number 19 ranked Oregon in the Armed Forces Classic in South Korea
NCAA Football:
(3) Oregon vs. (5) Stanford, Thursday November 7th 9:00 PM EST, ESPN
Not much needs to be said here. The Ducks take on the Cardinal in a heated rivalry matchup.
No Chip Kelly for the Ducks here, but they’ll still step up and try to take down Stanford (Via AP)
(13) LSU vs. (1) Alabama, Saturday November 9th 8:00 PM EST, CBS
The Tigers head into Tuscaloosa to go up against the Crimson Tide what should be the college football game of the week
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Brett Malamud is a Computer Science Major at Binghamton University. He is the co-founder of dabuzzza.com. His favorite athletes are Derek Jeter and Todd Bertuzzi. You can follow him on twitter at @brettnyy
2014 NHL Predictions
By Mike Basile
The NHL season is officially underway and with the new conferences, there is much debate which teams will make it to the postseason this year. The new format this year is three teams from each conference and two wild card teams with the next best records.
East:
Metropolitan division:
1 seed– Pittsburgh Penguins- Personally I do not see much debate here. They have been the most dominant team in the east the past few years and with a fully healthy Crosby, this team is more dangerous than ever. Also with Letang just coming back from injury and Fleury playing at his best, this team could run away early this season.
2 seed- Washington Capitals– There are a few teams that I could see getting the 2 seed in this division, but the highly powered offense of the Caps wins them this 2 seed for me. Ovechkin is playing like the 50 goal scorer we know he is and the young defensemen have been stepping up and showing the Caps are no joke.
3 seed- New York Rangers– This team has struggled early, but wouldn’t most teams that started on a long road trip and had many injuries? This team relies on their defense and goaltending, and why wouldn’t you with a goalie like Lundqvist? With offensive threats like Stepan and Nash this team could be a danger.
Wild card: New York Islanders– I see this team only missing the top 3 by one or two points. This team is highly powered offensively with Vanek and Tavares leading the way. With some shaky goaltending and defense, they will find themselves out of the top 3 and getting in with a wild card spot.
The acquisition of Thomas Vanek helps, but the lack of defense and goaltending will hurt the Isles in the standings (Via Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
Atlantic Division:
1 seed: Toronto Maple Leafs– Depth is the key here, and when I hear depth I think Maple Leafs. It is scary how many scoring options they have offensively . Their defense is no slouch either, and with Bernier and Reimer in net, this team is very dangerous.
2 seed: Detroit Red Wings– Veterans lead the way for this team. Backed behind Zetterberg, Datsyuk and Alfredsson, they are filled with leadership. If Jimmy Howard plays this whole season like he has so far, they will no doubt be the 2 seed in a very very good division.
3 seed: Boston Bruins– The team I believe to be the most defensively sound in the NHL. They play strong defensively, make little to no mistakes and wait for their offensive breaks, which will come with players like Krecji and Iginla. It doesn’t hurt to have Rask between the pipes either.
Wildcard: Ottawa Senators– Yes, I know this team has struggled to begin the season, but a team with this much talent cannot stay down for 82 games. The newly acquired Bobby Ryan really gave this team a big boost offensively and if other players like Spezza and Turris can step up, this team will be golden. With my pick to win the Norris (Erik Karlsson) leading them defensively and a solid Anderson between the pipes, they should get in.
West:
Pacific:
1 seed: Anaheim Ducks– I have loved this Ducks team in the west for many years now, but now with more spread out scoring, I believe this team has finally found a way to get over the peak. With the best 1-2 punch in goal with Hiller and Fasth, lighting the lamp against this team is no easy task.
Fasth and Hiller will carry the Ducks far this season (Via Debora Robinson/Getty Images)
2 seed- San Jose Sharks– This team is always successful during the regular season, and with player like Thorton and Pavelski, it is no secret why. With young players like Couture and Hertl stepping up, this team could be great! The defense helping with the scoring is also a key to this team’s success.
3 seed: Los Angeles Kings– Quick has a save percentage under 90 percent and this team is still sticking around the top 3. The defense has also been shaky thus far, but when this team puts it all together, they are very dangerous.
Wild card: Phoenix Coyotes– When a team gets scoring all throughout their lineup, they are a tough team to beat. That is exactly what the Phoenix Coyotes do and that is why they have 22 points so far this year. Mike Smith is also a big key for this team, as he usually makes or breaks them.
Central
1 seed: Chicago Blackhawks– Have I said enough? Another team that I really do not think there is much debate about, as there’s too much talent all around. An offensive power house and a defensive lockdown, this team is awfully good! One minor weak spot in net, but Crawford has only been getting better.
2 seed- Dallas Stars– My dark horse pick. This pick may surprise many, but I love the Stars this year. My vezina pick Kari Lehtonen will be the back bone for this team. Having offensive threats like Seguin and Benn will give Kari a little support back between the pipes.
3 seed- St Louis Blues– This team is fundamentally sound all over the rink. They do not turn the puck over, and they make other teams pay for their mistakes. Another defensive based team that also has their d-men jump up and help the offense in the scoring category. With Halak in net, they are tough to beat.
Wild card: Colorado Avalanche– I am not buying this hot start from the Avs. I do believe they are a good team, but I do not see them winning this division. Behind superstar Matt Duchene and solid goaltending from Gigure, they will get a playoff spot.
Stanley Cup Finals- Ducks over Leafs in 6
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Mike Basile is a sophomore at York College Of Pennsylvania. He is a huge sports fan, and when it comes to hockey maybe considered a little obsessive. Giving insight on the Islanders and all things hockey. You can follow him on twitter at @mikeybasile1
Who Dat: Fantasy Basketball Week One
By: Sam Breiter
Welcome to “Who Dat”, a weekly guide to learning about fantasy basketball players who are seeing noticeable success. No household names here, but players who have shown huge fantasy value and should be considered being picked up if not already taken. Obviously you can’t expect the limited success will last all season, as these players have not yet proven themselves, but we’re not going to give you any reason as to why not. It doesn’t matter if you’re a category or a points league guy, these players have made a statement in both league formats. So without further a do, here’s Who Dat for week one.
Michael Carter Williams (PHI)– Two weeks ago if you were to walk around, and were to ask people if they ever heard of Michael Carter Williams most people wouldn’t have an answer. Today, people cant stop talking about the six foot six point guard from Syracuse. He was the 11th pick in the NBA draft, and has already outplayed and beaten Lebron James and Derrick Rose, two of the leagues best. He has proven to be quick, explosive, productive, and a great decision maker. In his debut he almost got a triple double, but don’t expect that to be the only time.
Week One Stats– 20.7PPG, 9.0APG, 4.4 Steals, 46.8FG%
Miles Plumlee (PHX)- After Marcin Gortat was traded from the Suns to the Wizards, the expectations for the Suns rebounding game diminished. Yet, maybe the Suns knew that Gortat would just get in the way of the leagues next rebounding machine. Plumlee wasn’t given a chance as part of the Pacers last year, not even averaging four minutes a game. Plumlee has shown that he is an animal inside the paint on defense and offense.
Week One Stats- 15.5PPG, 14.0RPG, 3.0BLK, 56FG%, 37.5 MIN
Miles Plumlee has put the NBA on notice (Via USA Today Sports)
Vitor Faverani (BOS)- His name may get confused for a famous pasta dish at your local Italian restaurant, but this 25-year-old Brazilian center has given the Celtics something to look forward to. Clearly he is no Kevin Garnett, but he has been putting up similar numbers to the future hall of famer, in just his first few games.
Week One Stats- 12.5PPG, 10.5RPG, 4.5BLK, 53.3FG%, 32 MIN
Alec Burks (UTA)- Burks faced two years of being a role-playing prospect for Utah, but now with an improved role the shooting guard for the Jazz is receiving real minutes. In the early goings of the year his shot looks better then ever, and on the defensive end he looks very motivated. Utah doesn’t look very competitive this year, but Burks will have a huge role in scoring buckets, and running the offense.
Week One Stats- 18.0 PPG, 3.7RPG, 3.0APG, 48.8FG%, 31 MIN
Jodie Meeks (LAL)- With no Kobe for now, and Steve Nash dealing with injury and old age, where do the Lakers go? Well, the answer is Jodie Meeks. The Lakers have no one to go to, and Meeks has been nothing, but ideal for the Lakers. The 26-year-old shooting guard has never been a clear-cut NBA starter, and his job is definitely not safe for this year. Yet, even if pulled out of the starting lineup when Black Mamba returns, expect him to be the number one guy taken off the bench if he continues the hot run he currently is on.
Week One Stats- 13.7PPG, 4.0RPG, 52FG%, 41.7PT%,
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Sam Breiter is a high school senior at Plainview- Old Bethpage JFK High School. Sam is looking to major in sports management, with a minor in communications next year. He is the co-founder of dabuzzza.com. His favorite teams are the Mets, Giants, and Knicks. You can follow him on twitter at @baseballbreiter @baseballbreiter
NHL Top Ten Players So Far This Season
By: Matt Federbusch
1. Steven Stamkos (TB) 20 points, 11 goals, 9 assists
Stamkos has been fantastic so far. He is second in goals this year and second in points. The reason I put him first on this list is because he is the most offensively balanced player in the league right now and has been a huge part in the Lightning’s success.
Steven Stamkos has been on fire this season, and has no plans of slowing down (Via Hockey World Blog)
2. Sidney Crosby (PIT) 23 points, 8 goals, 15 assists
Sidney Crosby, what can I say? As a Ranger fan, I despise the guy but I can’t say I don’t respect his talent. He leads the league in points but most of those points have surprisingly been assists, not goals. He still leads the Penguins with 8 goals but he has definitely shared the wealth with 15 assists.
3. Alexander Steen (STL) 18 points, 12 goals, 6 assists
Steen leads the league in goals right now and has been huge for the Blues so far. He currently has a point streak of seven games.
4. Phil Kessel (TOR) 18 points, 9 goals, 9 assists
The Toronto Maple Leafs are having a great year so far. They are first in the Atlantic division. Kessel is the main reason for their success, having a balanced 9 goals and 9 assists
5. Henrik Sedin (VAN) 19 points, 3 goals, 16 assists
Sedin hasn’t scored a lot of goals this far, but he has been a fantastic playmaker, leading the NHL with a jaw-dropping 16 assists.
6. Alex Ovechkin (WSH) 15 points, 10 goals, 5 assists
Ovechkin cooled down in the last few years, but he has been scorching so far with 10 goals early in the season.
7. Kyle Okposo (NYI) 17 points, 4 goals, 13 assists
The Islanders have been playing well so far and Okposo has helped a lot with 13 assists, 3rd most in the league right now.
8. Matt Duchene (COL) 14 points, 9 goals, 5 assists
Colorado is in first in the Central Division and Duchene has been huge, leading the team in points and goals.
9. Frans Nielsen (NYI) 16 points, 8 goals, 8 assists
Along with Okposo, Nielsen has been great for the Islanders as well, having a solid 16 points and 8 goals.
10. Joe Pavelski (SJ) 16 points, 6 goals, 10 assists
San Jose is first in the Pacific Division and Pavelski has been a terrific playmaker with 6 goals and 10 assists.
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Matt Federbusch is an avid sports fan and a Jets season ticket holder. Besides the Jets, He also supports the Knicks, Rangers, and Mets. His favorite all-time Jet is Curtis Martin.
NFL Predictions Week 9
By Matthew Wieselthier
Thursday Night Football:
Dolphins 22, Bengals 20 (OT)
A little late to preview this but still, this game looked evenly matched when the Bengals should have come out and dominated. However, this game turned very defensive and that showed as DE Cameron Wake came out in the extra period and sacked QB Andy Dalton in his own endzone and gave the Dolphins a much-needed victory.
Sunday Football:
1:00 PM ET Games
Chiefs 28, Bills 10
The Chiefs and their lack of a difficult opponent streak is continuing, which will help them remain undefeated before their highlight matchup versus the Denver Broncos. The Chiefs should be able to play their average game and take care of business easily against an inconsistent and injury plagued Bills squad.
Panthers 38, Falcons 35
What was marked as an easy Atlanta victory in the preseason is now a game that they might not even be able to handle. The Panthers have been playing very strong football, led by QB Cam Newton who is having a fantastic season. With the Falcons as injury plagued as they are, it seems hopeless for them to take this must win game.
Cowboys 45, Vikings 17
No matter what you say, the Cowboys are still a very strong team. QB Tony Romo is having one of his best seasons so far and his supporting receiving cast is strong. The one question mark on that offense is the running game, which is dealing with an injured and inconsistent Demarco Murray. The defense has been decent for most for the year and it won’t matter with the atrocious Vikings offense, defense…everything. The only bright spot is of course last season’s MVP, RB Adrian Peterson. But that, like it has all season, will not save the Vikings atrocity of a season.
Geno Smith will try to lead the Jets to a win over the New Orleans Saints (Via USA Today Sports)
Jets 27, Saints 24
The Jets have followed a pattern. They look like a playoff caliber team on an odd week, and the worst team in the NFL on even weeks. According to the schedule, it’s an odd week. Rookie QB Geno Smith has looked fantastic on odd weeks and has showed great poise in the pocket throughout his brief career. The Jets defense needs to step up, but the front 3 for the Jets (Sheldon Richardson, Damon Harrison, and Mohammad Wilkerson) has been fantastic all season and if the secondary plays up to their expectations, this is a game that Gang Green can bring home before their bye week.
Rams 14, Titans 13
The Rams proved something last Monday night versus the Seahawks. They can play serious defense. With the Titans struggling, the Rams should be able to take advantage with their stellar defense and the increasingly better running game led by RBs Zac Stacy and Daryl Richardson, they should be able to take this win.
Chargers 34, Redskins 33
The Chargers are probably the biggest surprise this season so far, besides their division rival, the Kansas City Chiefs. QB Philip Rivers is having a comeback season this year, and RBs Ryan Matthews and Danny Woodhead have been playing their roles well. To add to that, the Redskins have looked generally terrible all season. Besides the heart stopping win last week versus Chicago Bears, QB Robert Griffin III and the Redskins are having a terrible season and the Chargers are not a team to help change that fact. Read More…
Fantasy Football First Half Awards and What to Expect in the Coming Weeks
By: Josh Halilej
So far this NFL season has been full of offensive firepower and high scoring games, which translates to BIG fantasy points. There have been standout individual performances (Calvin Johnson- 329 yards receiving, 1 TD or Peyton Manning- 462 yards passing, 7 TDs), and surprising seasons too (Andy Dalton ranked #6 in points among QBs, and Knowshon Moreno who has outscored every other RB/WR except Jamaal Charles.) This article is going to give you my opinion on who I think has performed the best comparative to their value so far, and who you can look out for in the future and during the playoff push. Remember, this is MY opinion, so you can take it or leave it as you wish. So here’s this season’s fantasy dream team:
Quarterback:
Best overall: Peyton Manning
Best value: Phillip Rivers
Worst value: Tom Brady
Let me explain, Peyton shouldn’t be anywhere else on the list of best fantasy QBs this season. He’s been consistent, he’s produced touchdowns and yards, and he hasn’t turned it over. He has exactly what you need to dominate a league and achieve ultimate bragging rights. Rivers has been sort of under the radar this season, because, well, that’s what happens when you’re on the Chargers. He’s quietly thrown for over 400 yards 3 times, and only has a total of 5 turnovers this year. In my league, where he went undrafted, he was the best pickup of the season so far at ANY position. Brady on the other hand, has been the opposite. He has had difficulty gaining chemistry with his new, rookie receivers Kenbrell Thompkins and Aaron Dobson, but he has his savior in Rob Gronkowski who is back from his surgery and adds a new threat and more receiver depth on this roster.
Philip Rivers has surprised everyone and has proved to be a fantasy steal this year (Via Opinuns)
Running Back:
Best overall: Jamaal Charles
Best Value: Knowshon Moreno
Worst Value: CJ Spiller
Jamaal, oh Jamaal. He hasn’t done anything wrong this year consistently getting at least 16 carries and gaining at least 100 total yards of offense in each game so far, PLUS 8 total TDs. Moreno has had similar consistencies to Charles with 9 total TDs, and around 15 carries a week in support of Peyton. The disappointment in the running back spot comes from none other than CJ Spiller. Before the season I thought that he was going to excel in Buffalo and help push them to the playoffs, but I couldn’t grab him in my league, and now I’m thankful.
Wide Receiver:
Best Overall: Dez Bryant
Best Value: Josh Gordon
Worst Value: Randall Cobb
Why not Megatron? Because he had one game with 36 ESPN standard fantasy points that really influenced him in terms of points. I have to give the starting position to Dez because of his consistency so far, but for the rest of the season, expect more domination from Calvin. Josh Gordon, although he missed the first 2 games of the season with a suspension, has been proven to be any Browns QB’s favorite target excelling with all Hoyer, Weeden, and Campbell throwing him the ball. Cobb can’t help his injury, but he had high expectations coming into the season, and only played 2 full games.
Tight End:
Best overall: Jimmy Graham
Best Value: Jordan Cameron
Worst Value: Rob Gronkowski
Jimmy Graham has been simply exciting this season making catches look easy, and making his good buddy Drew Brees look good. On top of that, he had a 5 game stretch to open up the season where he had 93 points total (which would still lead the league now). Cameron has been a welcome sight for most fantasy owners who thought he would have no opportunities because of the Browns, but he has grabbed 6 TDs this year and is averaging 11.5 points per game, which isn’t too shabby for a free agent find. Now, Gronkowski is interesting because reports were saying that he could have came back week 5, but made his first appearance in week 7. Since then in his 2 games of action Gronk has 13 total points and no touchdowns which isn’t exactly comforting to owners who drafted him in high/mid rounds.
D/ST:
Best overall: Chiefs
Best Value: Chiefs
Worst Value: Broncos
The Chiefs have been unstoppable on defense causing turnovers, not allowing points or yards, and just wreaking havoc in the backfield with their premier edge rushers Justin Houston and Tamba Hali. Houston is second in the NFL in sacks with 11, and Hali is tops in the league with 4 forced fumbles. The Broncos haven’t lived up to their stellar defense from last year, and have taken part in quite a few shootouts of offense vs. offense. Expect Von Miller to be the main factor on their future success.
Kicker:
Best overall: Matt Prater
Best Value: Matt Prater
Worst Value: Sebastian Janikowski
When it doubt, Matt Prater it out. He has gotten an incredible amount of points from just PATs and is not going to stop if Peyton keeps it up. I have no idea why Sea bass isn’t performing like the machine he was last year, but with a paltry 36 points through 8 weeks, he is the worst kicker in the NFL who has maintained a starting job.
Who to watch out for:
QB: Matt Stafford- He doesn’t have a tough schedule ahead of him and has many weapons.
RB: Gio Bernard- A rookie on the rise has had a few good games this season that could potentially give him the full time job over the Law Firm in Cincinatti.
WR: Calvin Johnson- need I say more?
TE: Jordan Reed- RG3 has found a liking to this guy as a main target. Watch out.
D/ST: Panthers- Despite the trading of Jon Beason to the Giants, these guys are playing solid football and just might surprise a few people with a playoff push
K: Matt Prater- He’s just going to keep on kicking these extra points until the season is over
Let me hear what you guys think about my picks in the comments and leave any of your own if you want. Just remember that there’s still a lot of football left to play.
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Josh Halilej is a die hard fan of both the Jets and the Mets, and is an avid fantasy sports player. He participates in leagues for baseball, basketball and football. You can follow him on twitter at @Mrmet2323
Top Five MLB Teams That Need To Take Out Their Checkbook For 2014
By: Sam Breiter
Baseball in 2013 was a season to remember to say the least. Whether you are talking about the unbelievable breakout season from Chris Davis, who led major league baseball with 53 homeruns, or if you are discussing the legacy of a man named Mariano, you can clearly see how extraordinary this year in baseball was. Just three days ago, the Boston Red Sox organization gained the title of World Series Champions. For now, they will be noted as the best team in baseball, but April is just around the corner and now every team will have fair game to work on improving their team to become potential champions for 2014. Some teams may look at their 40-man roster today and feel a sense of comfort and confidence for next year, knowing that they may be one small signing or trade away from being contenders. Other teams may look and find that there are many holes that need to be covered, and they have a lot of work cut out for them this winter. Noting, there are some organizations that have more available money for the elite free agents than others. For example, the Houston Astros may need an outfielder, but do not expect them to spend $20 million on a five tool superstar, but rather a player with mediocre talent since they are many years away from being competitive. What I am about to review is the top five teams who need to make moves this offseason in order to have a fighting chance in 2014. I took into consideration the available funds the team has, what they need, and their desire to improve to stand a chance next year.
The Yankees hope that bringing in the top free agents will lead them back to the promised land and their 28th World Series Championship (Via New York Times)
#5 Kansas City Royals- After being regarded as one of the worst teams in baseball after their great run in the 70’s and 80’s, the Kansas City Royals in 2013 really found themselves as a team. Prior to the 2013 season, the Royals had not been over .500 since 2003, and before that 1993. After spending the last couple of years trading away talent to improve their farm system, the Royals have reached that essential milestone where they have developed a group of young prospects into MLB superstars. Billy Butler, Alex Gordon, and Eric Hosmer, to name off a few, had a key role in allowing the Royals to win their 86 games this year. The Royals were just seven games back of the division-winning Tigers, and missed a wild card spot by five and a half games. So what’s it going to take to get over that hump? What do the Royals need to do to go back to the glory days of when they were one of the most feared teams in baseball? I have one answer to that question and that is pitching. If we look at the pitching rotation for 2014, for the team right now you see the names James Shields, Jeremy Guthrie, Bruce Chen, and two question marks. Ervin Santana, who had an above average year, is now a free agent, and the Royals never really had a true number five guy. Shields and Guthrie provide a great one two punch, yet it is fair to note that Chen has always time after time proven himself to be unreliable with injuries and inconsistent success. With this said, the Royals, in order to get over that hump, need to sign two starting pitchers that will work long innings and keep the rotation intact. The best fit for the Royals would include pitchers who have shown their talent such as Ubaldo Jimenez, Dan Haren, A.J Burnett, Matt Garza, or Hiroki Kuroda. Additionally, they might want to try to get back Santana, and maybe go for some of the lower demand pitchers including Scott Baker, Mike Pelfrey, Ricky Nolasco, or even Jason Vargas. With this added pitching help, the Royals can easily run away with a wild card spot, or perhaps even be the American League Central Division champs.
#4 Texas Rangers- Ever since 2010, the Texas Rangers have always been looked upon as, if not the best, one of the best teams in all of Major League Baseball. Their dominance in hitting the long ball, getting on base, and sustaining an above average pitching rotation and bullpen has allowed their success to last. In 2010, the Rangers made the World Series and fell flat on their face against the San Francisco Giants. The following year, after one of the most dramatic World Series ever, the Rangers fell just short losing to the St. Louis Cardinals in a seven game series. The following year, they won the wild card and missed their shot of going anywhere in the playoffs, and this year they did not even get a wild card spot. Clearly it may look as if this team is declining, but do you really expect the Oakland Athletics to come up with another 96 win season considering their best player is not even considered a superstar. If the Rangers brought back the same team they had this year, next year it looks pretty likely they would be the favorite to win the division, but down in Texas these fans expect more than a division title. Matt Garza, Nelson Cruz, A.J Pierzynski, and David Murphy, to name a few, are players who will be free agents this year and may just not be a part of the team next year. With this said, pitching (both starting and relief), a left fielder, and a catcher need to be acquired if the Rangers do not want to fall short yet again. In terms of pitching, look for the Rangers to attempt to sign one big name pitcher. I believe Garza will return and they will look to bring Alexi Ogando into their rotation and maybe even sign Roy Holladay if the Phillies part ways with the old ace. In terms of the bullpen, whatever happened to Neftali Feliz? From 2010-2011 Feliz combined for 72 saves, but from injuries the past few years people tend to forget about him. Expect Feliz to be their number one closer in 2014, but do not be surprised if Chris Perez comes in to become either the setup man or closer assuming Feliz does not work to his expectations. Behind the plate, the Rangers have always had power, if we go back a few years to Mike Napoli, or the more current days of Pierzynski. Do not be surprised if either of these players are brought back to the organization, yet I predict Brian McCann will be wearing a Texas Rangers uniform in 2014 because he will get paid the money he deserves, and the Rangers have a better resume of getting deep in the playoffs compared to the Braves. The Rangers have always had big time sluggers in the outfield. The Josh Hamilton/Nelson Cruz combo was one of the best power hitting outfields ever seen on one team. With Hamilton enjoying his money in L.A, and Cruz doubtful to return, do not be surprised to see the Rangers spending huge on a new outfielder. Jacoby Ellsbury, Shin-Soo Choo, Curtis Granderson, Carlos Beltran, and Mike Morse are the best fits for the Rangers if they are willing to spend big on a new outfielder.
AFC Midseason Recap and Predictions (3 of 4)
By Dan Lagnado
In part one of the midseason recap and predictions, the AFC East was covered and in part two of the midseason recap and predictions, the AFC West was covered. Next we will head over to the AFC North:
Division Winner: Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals are the only team above .500 in a division that includes two perennial defensive powerhouses, the defending Super Bowl champions…and the Cleveland Browns. The Bengals have made the most of their first two draft picks this season, Tyler Eifert and Giovani Bernard. Both have given an already powerful offense a boost. Andy Dalton has thrown for 16 touchdowns, 12 of those to AJ Green and Marvin Jones. Geno Atkins and the NFL’s leading tackler Vontaze Burfict lead the NFL’s fifth ranked defense (of all teams in the AFC North, who guessed the Bengals would have the top ranked defense?) This defense will have to deal with the loss of Rey Maualuga who was injured against the Jets. Currently sitting at 6-2 with a three game lead on the division, despite a tough schedule the Bengals seem poised to run away with this division.
Andy Dalton and the Bengals will try to win the AFC North this season (Via USA Today Sports)
8.5 months ago, the Baltimore Ravens were on top of the football world. And then everything changed. Ray Lewis and Matt Birk retired. Ed Reed, Anquan Boldin, Paul Kruger, Cary Williams, Bernard Pollard and Danell Ellerbe left either by free agency or were released. So far these losses have been hard to overcome. The Ravens are 3-4 and are only 1/2 game ahead of the Browns for second place. Joe Flacco, who signed a big contract extension after his Super Bowl MVP, hasn’t quite played up to the money with eight touchdowns and eight interceptions. Ray Rice is averaging less than three yards per carry and has struggled to stay healthy. Torrey Smith is the clear offensive leader but his teammates haven’t stayed healthy. Jacoby Jones has been injured and missed five games causing the Ravens to turn to rookie receiver Marlon Brown. Terrell Suggs and new addition Elvis Dumervil have combined for 13 sacks to provide most of the defensive highlights. While still possible for the Ravens to make a late season run, it will hardly be easy. Baltimore has a tough schedule going forward including two games against the first place Bengals.
The Cleveland Browns are having one of the most bizarre seasons that anyone has ever seen. The Browns were looking for even better seasons from their big second year players Brandon Weeden and Trent Richardson. As it turns out Weeden would start only two games (both losses) before being benched in favor of Brian Hoyer. Hoyer would go 3-0 in his starts before going down for the season with injury. The Browns then went back to Weeden, who would lose two more games before being benched again, this time for Jason Campbell. Richardson also only lasted two games before being traded to the Indianapolis Colts for draft picks. The Browns have actually performed better without last year’s high draft picks, going 3-1 in games not started by Weeden and 3-3 without Richardson. The main bright spots have been Jordan Cameron and Josh Gordon, who have accounted for nine receiving touchdowns. Defensive back Joe Haden has played proven to be one of the best year-in-year-out and rookie Barkevious Mingo has impressed in his rookie year with four sacks in his early career. While Cleveland is not going to threaten for a playoff birth terribly soon, the roots of a good team are in place.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are feeling the effects of time. This is hardly the same team that won two Super Bowls in the past decade. Instead, the Steelers sit in last place with a disappointing record of 2-5. Ben Roethlisberger has been inconsistent with eight TDs and seven INTs. The loss of Mike Wallace has had an impact on the offense though Antonio Brown has emerged as an offensive threat this season. The Steelers have also gotten decent play from their rookie running back Le’Veon Bell. Lamarr Woodley leads the team in sacks with five, however the rest of the team has only five total sacks as well. Perennial Pro-Bowler Troy Polamalu is also having a decent season. However, the bad certainly outweighs the good for this team. Many of the games have been close thanks to the defense, but the offense has not had the necessary firepower to win more games. With five tough games still on the schedule, it may be just about time for fans of the Terrible Towel to start looking towards 2014.
In the AFC North, look for the Bengals led by Andy Dalton and AJ Green to win the division, while the Ravens will try to fight through a tough schedule to get within striking distance of a Wild Card spot. It’s not an easy road for the defending champs but if anyone can conquer the adversity and make it the postseason, it’s the Ravens.
Overrated to Underdogs: Analysis of New York Knicks Offseason Acquisitions
By Zachary Pokorny
It amazes me how drastically things can change within six months. After putting up a 56 win season; becoming Atlantic Division Champion for the first time since 1994; and finishing second in the Eastern Conference, the New York Knicks, once thought to be overrated garbage, are now projected by many to finish outside the top four in the east for the 2013-2014 NBA season, even after they made many roster improvements.
Metta World Peace headlines the Knicks offseason acquisitions (Via New York Daily News)
Now let me remind you why the Knicks always receive so much criticism: it’s because they play in New York. When you play in the city that never sleeps, there are critics looking to take shots at every moment. These critics range from the opinionated Charles Barkley, all the way to every bandwagon Nets fan possible.
However, any basic student of the great game of basketball should be able to note the improvements the Knicks have made with each new acquisition. Currently, Tim Hardaway Jr. is a work in progress after being obtained through the draft, but retaining Pablo Prigioni, Kenyon Martin, and reigning Sixth Man of the Year JR Smith were all very solid moves. However, the moves made through free agency and trade will be crucial to any success the Knicks will have. Let’s analyze these players:
First off, the Knicks got Beno Udrih at a very inexpensive price. He is a high basketball IQ point guard who can be a proven asset in the near future. He will be a much more durable option than Jason Kidd was last season, although he does not have Kidd’s marksmanship from behind the arc. He may not be the guard they were looking for at first, but he is certainly no downgrade, having averaged four more points and three more assists than Kidd in the same playing time. I look forward to seeing what he has to offer this season.
Next, we have the controversial trade for Italian big man Andrea Bargnani. While they gave up next to nothing player-wise, the picks given up were a big question mark in this deal. However, the Knicks received a player who could fit perfectly into Coach Woodson’s system. He will be able to help space the floor for Carmelo and has the ability to snipe down jumpers with ease. Although his defense and rebounding abilities are mediocre at best, a fresh start is exactly what Bargnani needs to rejuvenate his career. If he can produce anywhere near as well as the Knicks last Italian stallion, fans should be very content with this deal.
Finally, we come to my favorite acquisition: Ron “Metta World Peace” Artest. MWP is a character, to say the least. However, he brings this team something they’ve lacked since Tyson Chandler joined the team: grit and toughness. He is a scrappy player who is as catalytic on the defensive end as he is dynamic in personality. Signing MWP was the most important move this offseason purely because he changes the culture of the team. His toughness is contagious, which is evident in his role on the Lakers 2010 championship team. Although he is older, he will hopefully play a similar role for the 2012-2013 New York Knicks
These moves were not groundbreaking, however they will be pivotal in any future success this team has. This team definitely has the potential to prove the nonbelievers like the “Round Mound of Rebound” to be as wrong as my math homework from last night. I believe the Knicks will be a 50 win team and will place third in the conference, ahead of Chicago and Brooklyn. These new-look Knicks have a lot to prove, but they have the potential to shine bright. I can’t wait to watch as the rest of the season progresses.
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