Gamsu of the Boston Uprising

No biggie but I’m kind of best friends with Gamsu

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So I’m scrolling through Twitter and lo and behold my guy, and our (unofficial) captain Gamsu, is posting about his new dog Uni for the millionth time. Thing is I love dogs too. In fact, my wife and I just got one. Well what self respecting fan doesn’t shoot his shot to the man? Didn’t expect anything, but then this happened:

https://twitter.com/LoadScr33n/status/1092534206188711936

Oh boy what a coincidence? Two guys who each got a new dog. Small world. Was it just luck or fate intervening on the behalf of two men who needed to become best friends? One guy who loves the Overwatch League and one of the best tank players in the league. But hey would Gamsu’s attention be caught by my cute dog Maverick…

https://twitter.com/LoadScr33n/status/1092535312427954176
https://twitter.com/LoadScr33n/status/1092536082883850241
https://twitter.com/LoadScr33n/status/1092537100375867392

Just two guys shooting the breeze about their dogs. Men doing men stuff. Gamsu and the local Uprising beat reporter. Match made in heaven.

For all the latest on the Overwatch League and Boston Uprising, please follow me on Twitter #BostonUp

The Patriots are Super Bowl Champs…Again

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The New England Patriots defeated the Los Angeles Rams 13-3 in Super Bowl 53, winning their sixth Championship.

One year ago today, New England lost to Philadelphia in a game that most expected Super Bowl 53 to mirror. A game where the phrase, “Defense wins Championships” is crumpled up and thrown out of a window. A game that has more trick plays than punts, and offensive coaches have a field day. A lot can remembered about Super Bowl 52’s incredible offensive heavyweight bout. However, the one lasting memory for most New England fans is the defense choking when it mattered most.

If there were any predictions for the game last night, they most likely were centered around an offensive outburst. Most people were assuming this would be another bloodbath, similar to the Chiefs-Rams Week 11 matchup that ended 54-51. Maybe not to the extent of 105 combined points, but it is Tom Brady and Sean McVay so it was a possibility. What we got instead was pound for pound football that exemplified this Patriots team resolve in more ways than one.

One could argue Tom Brady would have already had six rings coming into the 2018 season. Brady did after all throw for 505 yards and three touchdowns in Super Bowl 52. But that still wasn’t enough to overcome Matt Patricia’s sorry excuse for a defense. The Malcolm Butler argument can be made all day long but nothing was slowing down Nick Foles that night. This year however, it was the defense who helped Brady capture his record sixth ‘chip.

From Stephon Gilmore to Dont’a Hightower to Jason McCourty, every defensive player on the field made a play. Whether it was Gilmore’s last minute interception or Jason McCourty’s touchdown saving pass breakup, it was the defense who won the game this time around. There has never been a Super Bowl performance quite like the one we saw last night, and Tom Brady and the offense are beyond grateful. Brian Flores forever left his mark on New England lore, helping architect the best defensive performance in Super Bowl history. He will be sorely missed when he heads south to Miami.

Even though getting yards wasn’t an issue offensively, getting past the Rams 40 yard line was. It seemed like every drive ended with a long field goal attempt or a punt at the L.A. 45. This field position certainly helped the defense, but scoring points would have been far more helpful.

If there was one diamond in the rough for the offense last night, it was Julian Edelman. JE11 turned in perhaps his best game in a Patriot uniform, totaling 141 yards on ten receptions. The Rams Pro Bowl caliber cornerbacks could do nothing to stay in coverage, and no matter what Nickell Robey-Coleman says, they could not stop him. This immaculate performance led the way for the offense, and landed Jules his first Super Bowl MVP.

Julian Edelman shined when it mattered most, taking home the MVP award for Super Bowl 53.

Rob Gronkowski, in what could be his final game, looked like vintage Gronk, going for 87 yards and setting up the game’s only touchdown. Other than those two, the only other Patriot to have a solid offensive night was Sony Michel, who once again scored and had over 90 yards rushing. This was his third straight postseason game with a score and at least 90 yards on the ground, and he could have a monster next year as long as the offensive line stays intact.

Sony Michel scored the only touchdown of the game, capping off his incredible 2018 postseason.

In the end, this game was what no one expected and few wanted. Most people in New England would tell you they wanted a blowout and at least 40 points. Most of America would tell you they wanted the same thing, but in the Rams favor. However, if you look past the boring incomplete passes and negative rushing attempts, you’ll find that this game is what the Patriots are all about. They’re not a one dimensional team like Kansas City, where if the offense doesn’t score then they have no chance of winning.

The New England Patriots always preach that it takes all three phases, offense, defense, special teams, to win football games. That’s what Super Bowl 53 was, an all around effort with each group coming up clutch when they needed to. Without each player doing their job and stepping up to the plate when it mattered most, we would be sitting here thinking about what could have been. Instead? We wake up six time Super Bowl Champions and get ready for our second parade in 100 days.

Overwatch League just flipped the spectating experience on its head

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Watching eSports can be difficult. Blizzard put tools into Overwatch to help the League’s production team put together the best broadcast possible. Unfortunately it’s a moving target. Idle players are shown, big plays are missed, and hectic action becomes too disorienting for both casual and hardcore viewers. What could the Overwatch League do?

Different Views

To start, how about giving us spectators the same tools as the broadcasters? Now you have the ability to watch the action from any player’s view. Want to actually see what our support players do? You can now. Kellex and AimGod appreciate your patronage. Only want to watch DPS players? Done (the Uprising still don’t know who that will be, but that’s another story). Now you can follow your favorite players, roles, or heroes at the click of a mouse. On demand.

Best of all, you can now pull up the top down map that you see intermittently throughout the broadcast. I’m convinced the top down view may be the easiest way to watch the game. What better way is there to understand each team’s positioning? For new and casual fans, the top down view may be the best way to understand what is happening.

Additionally, you can mix in the traditional broadcast that the league broadcasts. With the functionality to combine any three of these views onto your screen, you can imagine just how malleable the system is. Personally, I don’t see how you can watch an Uprising match without having the overhead view in the corner, Gamsu in the other, and the broadcast front and center.

Extras

As if the ability to customize your viewing experience isn’t enough, the Overwatch League and Twitch throw in more. Two free Overwatch in-game skins (a $10 value alone). No ads. Exclusive post-match player interviews. Special Twitch badges and emotes (I’m too old to understand what these are, but shout out to the younger readers out there). A one-time 20% coupon to the Overwatch League Store.

Just to compare, let’s look at what similar packages in other leagues look like. Take a look:

  • NFL Red Zone – $9 – $13/month
  • NFL Sunday ticket – $290/season
  • NHL Center Ice – $130 – $160/season
  • NBA League Pass – $250/season
  • MLB TV – $112/season

When you look at what other leagues are charging, you can see just how great a deal this is. To any serious Overwatch League fan, the $14.99 price tag is a no brainer. For those trying to get into Overwatch, the price tag is more than reasonable to get a customized view of the action.

For all the latest on the Overwatch League and Boston Uprising, please follow me on Twitter #BostonUp

The Advantages and Drawbacks of Placing A Bet At Betting Websites in India

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Nowadays, there are now lots of betting websites in India. Some websites have a better assortment of cricket chances while others are much better in terms of football, horse racing, and among others. But the best betting sites in India have actually one thing in common they are best suited for Indian players.

However, placing bets at any Indian betting websites comes with its own list of advantages and drawbacks at the same time. If you’re an Indian gambler or planning to bet in these websites then keep on reading because this content is specially made for you.

Advantages

  1. It is very easy to get started

When betting online, you don’t need any special knowledge as well as skills. Most betting website in India usually explains the basic game rules. Apart from that, registering and depositing money is more convenient due to the upfront process. Nevertheless, Indian betting websites have a user-friendly and intuitive interface.

  1. Safe financial transaction

Online betting websites have a safer financial transaction compared to land-based casinos or betting places. With online betting, you don’t have to worry about crediting your cash to other or incorrect accounts. Plus, withdrawing your winnings has never been a complicated endeavor.  

Trustworthy Indian betting websites, on the other hand, always know their obligations to their customers.

  1. Convenient

One of the most common advantages of placing a bet on betting websites is convenience. When you bet online, you will be able to see lots of betting options more than you would see in local betting places which may possibly save much of your time.

Further, you don’t need to leave your house and visit a local betting shop where you can place a bet. Nevertheless, with betting sites, you don’t have to spend your time standing in a line and getting into your destination.

  1. Some Indian Betting Websites Offer Special Mobile Apps

These days, some betting websites in India offer a special mobile app so that their players will enjoy sports gambling using their mobile devices. Actually, in today’s society, it is difficult to find people who aren’t using smart phones.

Either way, with this app you don’t need to use a computer or laptop just to place a bet. All you have to do is look for the mobile version of your chosen Indian betting website. Moreover, you can bet by simply touching the screen of your phone. Nevertheless, some betting websites encourage their customers to use mobile apps by giving special bonuses.  

Drawbacks

The most common drawback of placing a bet in any betting websites is that it can become so addictive due to its convenience. With assurance, not all bettors or gamblers will end up getting addicted, however, cases aren’t few either.

More vulnerable gamblers will find betting online more addictive, thus it is crucial that you bet sensibly. On the other hand, setting a financial plan and sticking to it is one of the best ways that you can do to stabilize this. However, if you are having a hard time sticking to your financial plan, it is best for you to look into a self-limit control which most Indian betting websites tend to provide. Nevertheless, higher risk of losing is another drawback of placing a bet at betting websites.

Conclusion

Now that you have lots of facts regarding the advantages and drawbacks of betting online you’ll be ready to participate in one of the best Indian betting websites. Nevertheless, make sure that you are dealing with a reputable website to avoid any problem. You can do this by reading some reviews before placing a bet.

Grading the Revs offseason so far

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As I’ve already mentioned, this offseason was one of, if not the most important offseason in Revs history. And it has also been one of the best offseasons for the team as well. Coming into the offseason, the team needed help defesivley and offensively, and they got both. They needed a goal scoring striker, a number 10 to replace Lee Nguyen, and a winger to replace Kelyn Rowe. It seems as if they have filled all of those roles in 2019. But how good did the team do in each category?

Goal Scorer: B-

The revs were desperately missing an attack last year. They never really had a solid goal scorer they could rely on. They acquired Juan Caicedo to play striker, who will hopefully step up and be the Revs new goalscorer. Caicedo is big, and will definitely have a big presence in the box this year, but his track record is the difference between his B- and a B+. So far Juan seems to be having himself a decent preseason with the team, only time will tell if he continues his form in the regular season

Play maker: B+

To replace Lee Nguyen, and his number 10 role with the team, the Revs have brought in Spanish playmaker Carles Gil as a DP player. As it stands, Gil is lining up to be the new number 10 for the Revs, unless they end up bringing in another attacker, in which case Gil will likely move to right wing position. Revs were also linked with Spanish player Bojan Krkic.

With Gil New England is set to have a decent attacking midfield as he posses a lot of skills the team has lacked in recent years. So why a B+? Gil is, for the most part, an unknown player to most. He certainly won’t be a reason to go to games alone. He is a skillful player who did very little with his short time in the premier league. After a few loans and his team getting relegated, he moved to the second division in Spain, which is still a high level, but not a guaranteed difference maker. Gil will have a lot of hype to live up to with the Revs.

Right Wing: C-

As of now, there isn’t a guaranteed spot for any player at right wing. The position is up for grabs, hence the low rating for it. The position could fall to as many as 5 players: Diego Fagundez, Justin Rennicks, Tajon Buchanan, Juan Agudelo or Dejuan Jones. While any 5 of those players could play the position, they will be fighting for minutes. Of the 5, Justin Rennicks would probably be the most suited for the spot as it is his most natural position, and has the most experience playing it. As mentioned earlier, the team could also sign a new player to take the spot or move Gil there. If this were to happen the grade could go up, but for now they get a C-.

Left Back: A-

Is Edgar Castillo the best left back in the world? Not even close. Is he one of the best left backs in MLS? Yes. If Castillo can stay healthy at the nimble age of 33 in 2019, the Revs will be solid at the left back position. This is a spot they have really struggled to fill the past few seasons. Castillo has been rated as the top 5 left backs in MLS the last few years for Colorado, if he can continue that form, our left back problems could be over. The only problem remaining at left back is their depth. The only other left back under contract with the team is Gabriel Somi. But Somi has been very vocal about wanting to leave due to lack of playing time. However, with the European transfer window closed, he most likely won’t be moved until the summer.

Center back: D+

Revs made no change to their Centerbacks beside trading former club captain Claude Dielna. The team currently only has 3 center backs under contract. This isn’t good if one of them gets injured. The team has however recently been linked with two American center backs who currently play for QPR in England. The two wouldn’t be starters, but they would be low-risk options for depth. If a player were to be unavailable for whatever reason, one of the two could fill in. Currently, their starting center backs will most likely be Michael Mancienne and Antonio Delamea or Jalil Anibaba. This isn’t the worst pairing, but it’s the same groupings that helped the Revs conceded 55 goals last season.

Overall: B+

Coming into the offseason, the Revs had 5 major needs to improve the team, and so far they have acquired 3 of the 5, and 4 if you count the Justin Rennicks signing. With the European transfer window coming to a close, the Revs have a lot of potential to snag up some players in Europe in the next few weeks including another max salary player as club president Brian Bilello hinted at. The Revs have definitely had one of the best if not THE best offseason in their 23 year history. Now, they have to prove it on the field

Here’s What You Need to Know About Horse Racing Sport

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Horse racing is a heart-pumping performance race with or without the riders. The riders, you could call them “Jockey’s” – they depend on the horse and vice versa. We may have discussed about the events or the best betting tips (which we will still mention in the later part of this article) – but it will be interesting just to know about what goes on in a horse racing event.

Is Horse Racing a safe sport for the animal?

PETA obviously disagree with that. But, they have surely laid out some strict guidelines, only then the horse racing is considered to be safe.

If you already know about it – you must be wondering why am I discussing it even. But, for the newbies here – you should know about it to be sure that horses aren’t being harmed.

What are the major horse races?

If you want to dive in deep to know about the horse racing sport in general – you should not miss the major horse races.

The major ones include:

– Kentucky Derby

– The Preakness Stakes

– Belmont Stakes

– Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe

– The Royal Ascot

– Dubai World Cup

– The Grand National

These are some of the world’s best racing events. Of course, The Grand National and Cheltenham Festival – being one of the biggest National Hunt racing events from the bunch.

Types of Horse Racing

Yes, there are different type of horse racing. For which, you should know the terminology to identify the jargons.

The most common types are:

  • Jump Racing
  • Flat Racing
  • Endurance Racing

In the case of Jump racing, which is what you observe in a national hunt event like the Grand National – involves hurdles to jump over. There are no other obstructions except the hurdles. The ground is perfectly fine with no ditches.

In the case of Flat racing, the tracks are mostly oval in shape and level. This is one of the most popular types of racing worldwide and has the biggest distribution of money to the owners/riders. In other words, bigger purse.

In the case of Endurance racing, it is all about the distance. It could be a short one for about 10 miles. But, the more distance, the better for this category – if you want the real deal. Casual endurance racing for about a couple of miles also takes place but that isn’t competitive.

What are the grades in Horse Racing?

There are different grades and classes in horse racing. It counts when you want to asses the races according to caliber they belong to.

Even as to strategize betting, you need knowledge of this sorts.

So, let us cut to the chase: There are three grades (1,2, and 3). Here, Grade 1 represents the highest caliber.

What do you need to know about betting in Horse Racing sports?

It is completely legal to bet and gamble on horse racing events. You will find gambling stations at the race events where you can bet on a horse to win and increase your chances for a higher stake.

However, on some tracks – it is prohibited. So, you need to inquire before taking on some legal heat while betting on the race events. If all goes well with your betting, you might just get lucky to score some big prize!

Also, keep an eye on the bookies offers for various kinds of betting bonus, offers, and stuff.

Horse Racing: Region-wise in a nutshell

Horse racing, unlike any other sport is not being organized everywhere. It is limited to certain continents. So, if you have a kick for it – you should know if you can look for it on your country to get a closer look on it.

For the complete list of continents, you should refer Wikipedia’s page on Horse racing to to dig deeper.

Wrapping Up

Isn’t it interesting to know a lot of potential things about Horse racing sports? Well, yes, it can be quite intriguing – the types, the events, the horses, the grades, the purses, and the bettings for bookmarkers.

There’s a lot to learn in detail if you want to either get into sponsoring someone or just bet on a horse to enjoy the race. You be the judge and make sure to look for more details if you are excited already after knowing about the horse racing sport.

The Genius of Sean McVay and his Upcoming Chess Match with Bill

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Watching Sean McVay call plays on offense is like watching someone paint. True art, beautiful design, Sean McVay is a true innovator. All someone needs to be a head coach these days is have a cup of coffee with him. Let’s take a look into what McVay does best and how Flores and Belichick can stop him.

McVay and his misdirections

To start, McVay makes a living off of misdirections and different offensive line shifts. This freezes the second and third levels of the defense. Against the Saints, he called play actions and pulled his guards to one side of the field, then had Goff throw to the opposite side. This froze the linebackers and forced them to go up and play the run, while his receivers quickly got open. This will be hard for the Patriots to defend against as they will be looking to stop the rushing attack early. Expect these tricky play action passes early in the game to try and create uncertainty for that Patriots defense.

Stop the run

One key for the Patriots will be stopping the Rams in 11 personnel (one runningback and one tight end). The Rams run out of that personnel at the highest rate in the NFL, and will look to find success out of that formation early. The goal is to unleash their play action pass, which is their forte, and a weakness of the Patriots. The Eagles early establishment of their run game last year was extremely detrimental to the Patriots defense, and ended up deciding the game. That defense could not stop a nosebleed. Hopefully history does not repeat itself. Expect the Patriots to take the ball to start the game if they can. They want to dictate the game and make the Rams play catch up with them. Both teams will want to start fast, put points on the board, and expose the other team’s defense early.

Belichick’s starting alignment  

Belichick will likely start the defense by lining up one defensive tackle in the A-gap and then another in the B-gap. Look for the defensive starters to look something like Flowers, Butler, Guy, and then the surprising Adrian Clayborn. Belichick will likely line up both ends in a seven or nine technique off the very edge of the tackles to establish the edge. This will force Gurley and Anderson inside. This will also keep Goff in the pocket and give him struggles, as he has struggled identifying edge pressure before.

Fighting against the misdirections and nifty play action McVay calls will not be easy. Although the Bears and Lions had success with the strategy of straight up ignoring it earlier this season.

Will McVay be enough?

The key will be stopping the run early to prevent Los Angeles from really digging into their playbook in that first half. Winning the first half will be key for the Patriots to win as getting into a shootout with this Rams team is not something anyone wants to do. The good news is the gameplan has been similar for the Patriots in both playoff games. If the Patriots can stick to the gameplan on defense and start hot, McVay and his genius mind will not be enough to finish on top.

Top Ten Reasons to Pass CompTIA Network+ N10-007 Exam

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CompTIA Network+ certification applied for the network technicians of the Mid-Level. The exam had been designed to check the ability of the technicians of the Mid-Level network in support of the TCP/IP clients. It stands applicable for cabling, hardware setup network design, support, installation, troubleshooting and so on.

CompTIA known as the Computing Technology Industry Association was formerly known as ABCD: The Microcomputer Industry Association.

CompTIA Network+ N10-007 exam

This exam all kind of questions on various levels such as traditional, identification of the problem and situational. It is open to anyone. However, it should be taken by anyone who has a proper knowledge of the job experience for at least 18 months. The participating candidate should also have some knowledge in the same field or maybe A certification.

It checks the various ability of the participating contestant in the various fields of networking such as troubleshooting, installation, maintenance, supporting a network and understanding the different aspects of networking technology such as OSI model and even TCP/IP. The exam also required taking a test on the network components and their functioning in relation to the OSI model, network troubleshooting, network cabling, and network security.

Why should you pass CompTIA Network+ N10-007 exam?

The CompTIA Network+ N10-007 exam enables the candidates to form a career in IT infrastructure which includes configuration, network management, and troubleshooting.

Taking the CompTIA Network+ Exam will help you with several things:

A wide range of job opportunities

Due to the growing popularity of the IT sector, the technicians are in huge demand. As a result, it has become compulsory for the professionals to take the certification. Most of the time, the companies hire certified professionals as compared to those of the non-professionals.

Popularity

Network+ certification has become one of the popular fields in the IT sector drawing the attention of several people. If you get certified, the high chances are that you will get several opportunities to expand your skills.

Building a solid foundation of knowledge and skills

The certification enables the participating professionals to develop their knowledge and skills. This will prove to be beneficial for them in their long caterer. Although starting off with the high Certification level can seem to be a timesaver, it may often lead to delay in your time. This is because you may not know the basics. Without proper knowledge of the basics, you are sure to lack in the higher level knowledge.

Get Extra Credit

Getting CompTIA Network+ certified can offer you a lot of benefits. Several multinational and big companies like Cisco, Novell, HP, and Microsoft recognize the importance of CompTIA certification in association with their own tracks. There are several other universities and colleges that can offer credits to their students for attaining the CompTIA certification.

Improves your confidence and credibility

The CompTIA Network+ N10-007 exam can be of great help in improving your confidence. This is the most important for the ones who are new in the IT field as it helps to boost the confidence for them. Having a certification will help you determine that you know what you validate in and what you take. This gives your career your boost and assures more credibility to your career.

High salary and several career opportunities

Several companies and organizations recognize the importance of CompTIA certification. Before appointing certain IT professionals in particular job opportunities, the companies make it important to get the certification. Several job opportunities also require the certification to be a basic requirement. Researches have also shown that the certified professionals are often paid more than that of the non-certified IT professionals.

Career Scope

The Network+ N10-007 exam enables you to become several certified professionals such as Help Desk Technician, Backup Administrator, Network Administrator, Remote Support Technician, Systems Architect Network Security Speciality, Help Desk Administrator, Information Security Specialist and many more.

Network Configuration

Once you become Network+ certified, you become able to understand and distinguish between the benefits as well as the drawbacks of the various network configurations. It can prove to be beneficial for improving your IT sector career.

Virtualized networks

Not many may know, but through the course of becoming Network+ certified professional, you will learn the concept of virtualized networks. This will, this proves to be beneficial for you in the further run for the creation of virtualized networks.

Network traffic

Getting Network+ certification will enable you to manage the network traffic in the existing programs. The networking course is to make you understand the various practice devices which will enable you to manage switches and routers. This will help you understand the network traffic and enhance the resilient network configurations.

Tips for passing the Network+ N10-007 Exam

This is one of the essential upgraded exams.

Before you start preparing for your exam, you will need to find the relevant books and study materials. You should check for them online as well as offline. You should be more focused on hooks regarding the CompTIA Network+ N10-007 practice test.

Join a class

If you have a budget and time, you should start taking up a class. Interacting with the same people as that of you can help you prepare in a proper way. Such an environment will help you get through the process. Also, if you have weak areas, the tutors can help you overcome it.

Prepare your practice areas

You can sit and prepare your own practice areas. There are several websites that offer questions that offer free questions to prepare. You may also use the internet for finding out the correct answer. Although you won’t have a calculator during the test, it can prove to be helpful while the training period.

Books to read

  • CompTIA Network+ Cert Guide by Anthony Sequeira
  • CompTIA Network+ N10-007 Exam Cram, 6th Edition

Conclusion

You should prepare for the exam thoroughly. This will help you get through the course. CompTIA Network+ N10-007 exam is one of the toughest to get through. Nonetheless, proper preparation can help you get through it. This a globally recognized certification that can help you get a job at reputable companies.

Boston Bruins vs Philadelphia Flyers

Tuukka Returns; Bruins vs Flyers

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Tuukka Rask returns tonight after suffering a concussion that saw the goaltender out for one game. The return also marks a possible career-milestone for Rask, who looks to overtake Bruins goaltender Tiny Thompson’s record for most career wins. The B’s are also looking to win tonight to get back into 3rd place in the Atlantic division, as they are now one point behind Montreal. With Monday’s shootout loss to the Winnipeg Jets, the Bruins are now 0-1-1 in their last two games.

A FLYING STREAK

In their last meeting during regular season, the Philadelphia Flyers (21-23-6) will face the Boston Bruins at the TD Garden. Philly is looking to extend their five-game win streak to six, after going 1-7-2 in their previous 10 games. Rookie goaltender Carter Hart will get the start in net for the Flyers. The two teams played against each other January 16th, with the Flyers nabbing the 4-3 win. Sean Couturier had a hat trick, and Claude Giroux reached a career high of 500 assists.

Boston Bruins vs Philadelphia Flyers
(Photo Credits: Rob Carr/Getty Images North America

Giroux currently leads the team with 52 points and 38 assists. Couturier leads the team with 19 goals. If the Flyers win tonight, it would be their longest winning streak since 2010. It will also give them their 2,000th road point. Despite having won two of the last three games, they have lost nine of their last games in Boston.  Couturier has recorded a point in seven of his last eight games played.

LOOKING FOR A WIN

Boston Bruins face Philadelphia Flyers
(Photo Credits: Eric Hartline-USA Today Sports)

The Bruins (27-17-6) are coming off  their mandatory bye-week and  suffered a shootout loss to the jets 4-3. Despite the loss, the Bruins played with little rust, although by the third period, things got away as the Jets scored two goals seconds apart in the third period.   Boston is 2nd in the league for the power play at 27.3%. Joakim Nordstrom will return to the lineup tonight after suffering a fractured fibula.

WELCOME BACK

Boston Bruins vs Philadelphia Flyers
(Photo Credits: Leon Halip/Getty Images North Americ)

With Halak slipping in his numbers, news of the return of “Tuukka Time” offered fans a bit of relief:


“…we trust him. If he’s not ready that fine. He’s coming off a pretty serious hit there..”

Coach Bruce Cassidy on Rask

Rask’s season has had many ups and downs, but recently looking to be back on track. Rask is now third in the NHL for goals against average with 2.43. Nordstrom will be slotted alongside Sean Kuraly and Chris Wagner. John Moore will also be back in the lineup with Matt Grzelcyk out. He’ll be playing next to Brandon Carlo. David Pastrnak still leads the team with 59 points and 28 goals. Brad Marchand continues to lead the team in assists with 37.

WHEN TO WATCH: Tonight with puck drop at 7:00 PM

WHERE TO WATCH: NHLN, NESN, NBCSP+

Follow me on Twitter @pastagrl88

Meet Matt Barnes: Red Sox Closer

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When news crackled off the wire that the Red Sox had signed Jenrry Mejia it was confirmed: The Red Sox payroll problems are real, and they’re spectacular. The only relief help walking through that door is the thrice failed, suspended-for-life, then reinstated kind. While wandering eyes look for a free agent, there’s a stalwart right in front of us. Matt Barnes is the most reliable, time tested, experienced, and talented holdover whose time has come. Matt Barnes should be The Closer for the Red Sox.

Slow and steady wins the race

Let’s be honest: If Craig Kimbrel would sign a two year, $20 million deal he would be the closer. But he’s worth more, and the Red Sox won’t pay him. So we have Barnes.

Ryan Brasier came out of nowhere to deliver last year. But the book on him is still being written. You better believe the hitters will catch up with him this year. Then there is Matt Barnes.

Check out his three year progression in ERA/WHIP/K per 9/Ground Ball %:

  • 2016: 4.05/1.395/9.6/46%
  • 2017: 3.88/1.220/10.7/49%
  • 2018: 3.65/1.265/14.0/53%

Unlike Brasier, or even Thornburg, Barnes forged his record in the crucible of the AL East. Sure, he walks a few, that’s why his WHIP isn’t closer to 1.0, but his progression is one of an artist honing his craft. He has steadily produced more strikeouts and ground balls. That is the special sauce that creates a successful pitcher.

Opportunity

With the Red Sox looking down the barrel of paying Mookie, and the prospect of Sale, Porcello, Bogaerts, and Martinez becoming free agents after 2019, there is scant money left for the bullpen. Tyler Thornburg is coming off injury, Ryan Brasier is new, Durbin Feltman is untested. Matt Barnes has worked his way up to being the set up guy last year. He has been doubted and ridiculed, passed over for starters in the postseason despite pitching lights out.

The time is now for Matt Barnes to become the Red Sox closer.

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