Tom Brady Will Be Ready To Dominate This Season (@steveA1127)

Leave a reply

Tom Brady Has Entered The Building

Via hubwav

Tom Brady has reported to training camp early. The GOAT is coming off an interesting offseason in which he skipped all of the voluntary workouts. Brady has been spending more time with his family and training his own way with Alex Guerrero to be ready for the season. He is likely very happy that Josh McDaniels is back and also that no quarterback on the roster is a threat to take his job. There was question if Brady would holdout because of a contract. But that isn’t happening and he’ll be ready to go.

Retire A New England Patriot?

Via Boston Herald

Brady wants to end his career with the Patriots and Robert Kraft is making sure that happens. The 2019 season will likely be his last, judging by his candid remarks in an interview with Oprah. The “playing until 45” guarantees was a tactic to keep Jimmy Garoppolo at bay and for the fans to celebrate. It’s more realistic to suggest that Brady will be retiring when his contract is up after the 2019 season. He’ll have one year with Josh McDaniels as the head coach.

18 Years Has Flown By

(Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images) ORIG FILE ID: 508481337

When Brady was drafted back in 2000, he was out of shape and told Kraft the this will be the best decision the organization has ever made. Eighteen years later, Brady has lived up to his word. Drafting Brady 18 years ago was indubitably the best decision the organization has ever made. Brady has won five Super Bowls and helped turn the Patriots into a dynasty for 18 years. He’s made his own brand, started a family, and traveled the world to visit fans everywhere. Brady’s ego may have gotten in the way recently, but that was only because his job was at stake. Once Brady went to Kraft about playing until age 45, Kraft ensured that Garoppolo would be traded.

Brady played much better after Garoppolo was drafted and won two Super Bowls. As his career is coming to a close sooner rather than later, let’s enjoy the last years of Brady in a Patriots uniform and forget the ugly along the way.

Gilmore

Patriots Training Camp Preview: Cornerbacks

Leave a reply

There are many new faces on this Patriots team compared to last year. The Pats acquired four guys from trade, fifteen from free agency, and nine from the NFL Draft. They also lost nine players from trade and free agency and had three players retire.

In this new series, I will be looking at every player from each position leading up to training camp. For this part of the series, I will take a look at the cornerbacks. The Patriots lost a key-piece to their secondary this past off-season with the departure of Malcolm Butler. New England then went on to add one CB via trade, two by draft, and one as an undrafted FA.

Stephon Gilmore #24 (2017-Present):

Stephon Gilmore is entering his seventh year in the NFL and second for the Pats. Gilmore was the 10th overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft by the Buffalo Bills. He played five seasons in Buffalo, recording 225 tackles, 62 PBUs, and 14 interceptions. Gilmore’s final season in Buffalo was his best; he started 15 games and had 5 INT. He was voted as a Pro-Bowler for this season. Gilmore then signed a five-year, 65-million dollar contract with the Pats.

His career in New England started off rocky and he missed three games due to a concussion. Once he came back to the Pats, he played like the elite corner he was in Buffalo. In the 13 games in which Gilmore played, he notched 2 INT and 50 tackles. Gilmore started all three games in the playoffs, amassing 10 tackles and 6 PBUs. He also had the play of the game in the AFC Championship – a crucial pass deflection on fourth-down to seal the victory.

Gilmore’s contract will be debated with Pats fans for his entire tenure with the team. It is a lucrative deal, but it also gives the Patriots a legitimate number one cornerback to anchor the secondary. He showed he can cover the best wide-receivers in the game last year and will almost certainly make the roster next season.

Jason McCourty #30 (2018-Present):

Jason McCourty is in his tenth year in the NFL and first for the Patriots. He was the 203rd overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft by the Tennesse Titans. McCourty played his first eight years in the NFL for Tennesee and played in 108 games over that span. He had 13 INT, 496 tackles, and 2 TD in his career for the Titans. McCourty was released by Tennessee after refusing to take a paycut. He was rumored to have interest in going to New England that offseason, but the Browns gave him a better offer. McCourty started in all 14 games he played and had 65 tackles, 3 INT, and 1 TD. His career in Cleveland was cut short as the Browns looked to revamp their roster with younger talent. McCourty was traded to New England in the 2018 offseason for a sixth round pick.

With McCourty coming in, the Pats have a guy that can replace Butler’s role on the team. As he gets older, McCourty continues to excel at zone defense, and read the QB better than many of his peers. He and his twin brother Devin will look to team up against opposing offenses this upcoming season. McCourty has a highly-likely chance of making the team due to his ability to read the pass.

Eric Rowe #25 (2016-Present):

Eric Rowe is entering his fourth year in the NFL and third for New England. The 2015 47th overall pick in the draft started his career in Philadelphia. After playing all 16 games for the Eagles in 2015, he was traded to the Patriots. Rowe’s career in New England began in 2016 but he only played in 9 games due to injury. He had 26 tackles, 8 PBUs, and 1 INT. Rowe also contributed with 11 tackles and 1 INT in the playoffs. His next season was riddled with injury; he only played in 8 games. In those contests, he had 14 tackles and 2 PBUs.

https://twitter.com/CaseyBake16/status/901237184585494529

Rowe’s play in Super Bowl LII against Philadelphia frustrated a lot of Pats fans. He was getting beat off the ball and let up big plays consistently. Overall, Rowe has the potential to be a good nickel corner, but I would not be shocked if Belichick released him.

Jonathan Jones #31 (2016-Present):

Jonathan Jones is an undrafted free agent out of Auburn University. He is now entering his third year in the NFL, all for New England. Jones has appeared in all 32 regular season games for the Patriots in his two-year tenure with the team. In his first year he had a small role, mostly as a special-teamer, and had 6 tackles, 1 FF, and 1 PBU. His next year was a quiet, breakout year as he started four games and saw increased snaps at corner. He had 36 tackles, 1 sack, 8 PBUs, and a game-winning INT against the Chargers.

https://twitter.com/CaseyBake16/status/924728538477056002

Jones will take a big step this upcoming year as Malcolm Butler is no longer with the team. He is going to have to show that he can continue to get better and become a consistent starter for the team. Jones has a very good chance of making the team.

Duke Dawson (Rookie):

Duke Dawson was the 56th overall pick by New England in the 2018 NFL Draft. He was also the highest picked defender taken by the Pats. Dawson hails from four years with the Florida Gators. In those four years, he played in 32 games and had 81 tackles, 6 INT, 3 TD, and 17 PBUs. His senior season was his best; he had 34 tackles, 4 INT, and 9 PBUs. Dawson was selected as first-team All-SEC.

Dawson could be pushed into a starting role as a rookie very early in the season. His talent is definitely there – it’s just of matter of how soon he can begin covering elite WRs. I can not see the Patriots cutting Dawson. After all, he was their highest defensive player selected.

Ryan Lewis #27 (2017-Present):

Ryan Lewis is entering his second year in the NFL, both for New England. Lewis was an undrafted free agent out of Pittsburgh before he was picked up by the Arizona Cardinals. He did not play a snap last year and was waived by Arizona. New England then snagged him. Lewis’ college career consisted 30 games, 103 tackles, 1 sack, and 2 INT, including one of off Deshaun Watson.

Lewis will have a very tough time trying to make the Patriots 53-man roster. The Pats have a lot of young-depth at the position that have a sizable advantage over Lewis. He could be riding the practice squad for the second year in a row.

Cyrus Jones #41 (2016-Present):

Cyrus Jones is now in his third-year in the NFL and for the Pats. The former 60th overall pick has not lived up to expectations so far. His first year in the league he played 10 games, both at returner and cornerback. As a corner, Jones only had 7 tackles and 0 INT or PBUs. It only got worse for the college-standout when he muffed 5 balls as a returner. He looked to improve in his next season, but a torn ACL sidelined him before he could even get started.

Jones had so much potential coming out of college, but it has yet to pan out in the NFL. Sometimes, teams need to realize that a pick can be a waste and ties have to be cut. I believe Jones will not make the roster due to his inability to keep up with WRs off the ball and his poor returning skills.

Keion Crossen (Rookie):

Keion Crossen was the 243rd overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. He spent his time in college as a two-sport athlete for the FCS School, Western Carolina. Crossen was a two-year starter for the Catamounts and played in 46 games. He amassed 165 tackles, 3 INT, and 19 PBUs in his career. Crossen also holds the school-record for fastest 100-meter dash, timing in at 10.33 seconds.

Crossen is a dynamic player in the secondary for the Pats. His ability to play man defense on elite, shifty receivers will be something to look for in training camp. Overall, he will still have a tough time making the roster, but he could impress the right people with his return skills.

J.C. Jackson (Rookie):

J.C Jackson is an undrafted rookie out of the University of Maryland. Jackson started his college career in Florida, but a shoulder injury saw him transfer to JUCO. After his time in JUCO, he went to Maryland and played two seasons for the Terps. In those two seasons, Jackson played 24 games and had 80 tackles, 4 INT, and 13 PBUs. Jackson decided to forgo his senior season and enter the 2018 NFL Draft.

https://twitter.com/ezlazar/status/991452262529753088

Even though undrafted players usually start at a disadvantage, Jackson is off to a strong start for New England. He got a lot of reps across Gilmore during OTAs, which is a good sign for the youngster. If Jackson continues to bring his intensity to training camp like he did in OTAs, I think he has a fair argument for a spot on the roster.

Jomal Wiltz #22 (2017-Present):

Jomal Wiltz is now in his second year in the NFL, both for the Patriots. After spending his first two years in college at JUCO, Wiltz signed with Iowa State. In his two seasons for the Cyclones, Wiltz had 90 tackles, 2 INT, and 17 PBUs. His senior season afforded him an honorable mention for the All-Big Ten team.

Wiltz is going to have a very hard time making the roster for the Patriots. The only way Wiltz has a chance is by wowing the coaches with his special teams ability. However, he’s to be considered a long-shot at best.

Final Takeaway

Overall, the Patriots have a lot of depth at cornerback this year. Watch closely to this group of guys as there seems to be some interesting battles brewing.

Bjork

Anders Bjork Looking To Make His Mark

Leave a reply

The Boston Bruins had high expectations for Anders Bjork heading into last season. The former fifth round pick appeared in only 30 games and recorded 12 points. On February 20th, the Bruins rookie underwent left shoulder shoulder, which ended his season. Bjork was forced to a watch as the Bruins made the playoffs and fellow rookies Danton Heinen and Jake DeBrusk had breakout seasons. Next season, Bjork will be highly motivated as he looks to make his mark. When healthy, he spent time on the Bruins top two lines, which speaks to how much the organization believed in him. It will not be easy, but if Bjork can play to his potential, the Bruins will find a spot for him.

Expectations For Anders Bjork

When the Bruins first drafted Bjork in the fifth round of the 2015 draft, he drew comparisons to David Pastrnak. He can play both ways and lrelies on his speed, much like Pastrnak. While at Notre Dame, he improved his game every year to become an elite scorer by his junior season. His creativity, strength, and agility is what makes him so hard to defend. In his junior season, he broke out with 21 goals and 31 assists, including five powerplay goals. When the Bruins drafted the Notre Dame product, he was seen as possible second line winger. After an impressive developmental camp, the Bruins slotted him on the second line.

Bjork

Photo Credit: Winslow Townson/ AP Photo

Bjork Makes His NHL Debut

The Notre Dame product got off to a hot start in his first NHL season. Bjork began the 2017-2018 season on the Bruins second line with David Krejci and David Pastrnak. In his first 11 game, the former fifth round pick had seven points. He also saw time on the powerplay as he notched two points on the man advantage through the first six games. Bjork then began to struggle; through all of December, he recorded only three points on two goals. Due to the slump, the Bruins sent him back to Providence to regroup. The move appeared to be beneficial; in nine games, he amassed four points. The Notre Dame product returned to the Bruins on January 25th, but his stay was brief.

Bjork

Photo Credit: Brian Fluharty- USA TODAY Sports

Season Ending Injury

Upon his return, Bjork would only appear in two games before surgery ended his season. Going into next year, the will be more motivated than ever. He will also see competition in the form of other Bruins prospects (eg, Zach Senyshyn) who are close to being NHL ready. Bjork still could make an impact in Boston as she showed flashes of his scoring ability last season. Health and consistency will be key for the former fifth pick as he looks to establish himself after a rookie season to forget.

Follow Jamie Gatlin On Twitter @JamieGatlin1217

Dave Dombrowski Has Killed The Farm System

Leave a reply

With only two prospects in the top 100, Dave’s win now philosophy has killed the backup plan If we cannot resign all these players.

Yes, Dave Dombrowski has brought in some serious talent to Boston over the years, but we simply cannot resign them all. Chris Sale and Craig Kimbrel has done astonishingly well thus far, but what about the Drew Pomeranz, Carson Smith, and Tyler Thornburg? While Losing big name prospects such as: Anderson Espinoza, Travis Shaw, Manuel Margot, and Mauricio Dubon.

Not saying these trades weren’t beneficial, but with the cap room looking tight already, it is going to be a challenge to resign these guys. With guys already in line to ink up max deals. Mookie Betts, Andrew Benintendi, and Xander Bogaerts should all command huge contracts, which will spike up the luxury tax for sure. It makes it harder for the team to compete in free agency for guys like: Bryce Harper, and Manny Machado exclusively.

The farm system now ranks 15th in all of baseball. With Jason Groome ( Tommy john) and Micheal Chavis ( 80 game suspension) as the only two guys in the top 100. Leaving scraps for developed prospects. Guys like Tanner Houck, Trey Ball, and Josh Ockimey aren’t eye popping players yet. They need to restock the farm system in some way via trade or an over abundance of draft picks in coming years.

While nobody would expect a dominant regular season from the likes of Ben Cherington and John Farrell respectfully, Alex Cora has been a great compliment to dealing Dave. While we wait and watch another trade deadline come and pass, we can only imagine what him and the front office has in store.

What will the legacy be after it’s all said and done? Maybe we will find out about Hanley Ramirez too. Until then, we let the cards fold as they be.

Follow me on twitter! @porchie16

Top 5 Tuesday: WR Duos to Watch out for in 2018

Leave a reply

5. Julio Jones – Calvin Ridley

Both Alabama products are a match made in heaven for Atlanta, and a matchup nightmare for opposing corner backs. Julio Jones is a rare WR with his size. His speed and incredible and hands make him almost uncoverable. The All-Pro WR will be looking to have another great season with Atlanta in 2018. As for Ridley, Atlanta’s first round pick in this years draft should bring speed, with sharp route running and explosiveness off the line. Ridley will most likely draw the third best cornerback and will take advantage with his skill set. Atlanta looks primed to have a high-flying offense, in which Ridley will be a big part of.

Courtesy of google images

4. Antonio Brown – JuJu Smith-Schuster 

Brown is arguably the best WR in football. He gets a lot of attention from opposing defenses. Even with talented corners draped over him he still manages to make it look easy. Brown will have another dominant year in 2018, with Smith-Schuster demanding attention after coming off 917 yards and seven TDs last year. Look for him to help open up the offense more for Brown, while improving significantly this year.

3. DeAndre Hopkins – Will Fuller            

Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

With Deshaun Watson coming back expect these two WRs to have tremendous numbers in 2018. At just 25 years old, DeAndre Hopkins is one of the most dynamic receivers in the NFL. Last season he led the league in receiving TDs and was named first team All-Pro, even with his QB going down in early November with a torn ACL. 2018 is bright for Hopkins as he looks to add to his impressive resume. Helping him achieve the goals he’s set for himself is where Will Fuller comes in.

Fuller had a good rookie season in 2016 which led to high expectations going into last year, but the injury bug got to him. Fuller’s talent is unquestionable, and him being overlooked is all good news for him. He is going to have the season we thought he would last year. Fuller will be targeted more to make this WR tandem exciting to see come September.

2. Marvin Jones – Golden Tate 

The Lions boast the only WRs tandem to both go over 1,000 yards in 2017. As they revitalize their run game, Tate will keep racking up catches and using his skill set to accumulate his YAC. Marvin Jones had his best year in 2017, with his speed and being a constant deep ball threat. 2018 is looking very nice in Matthew Stafford’s eyes. Jones and Tate compliment each other perfectly, which makes them one of the best WR tandems today.

1. Stefon Diggs – Adam Thielen

Courtesy of T.E. Bechtold

2017 was quite a ride for the Minnesota Vikings. Watching Stefon Diggs’s play against the New Orleans Saints was destiny. Unfortunately for Viking fans the “Minnesota Miracle” couldn’t get them to the season’s final game. What it did do was just adding to an already long list of amazing plays by Diggs. His future in the NFL is a bright one with new QB Kirk Cousins. The better half of this WR duo would be Adam Thielen, Minnesota man through and through, has went from undrafted to unstoppable. He broke out in 2016 with a little under 1,000 yards. Last year was his real coming out party, setting career bests in receptions and yards 91 and 1,276. With Thielen getting better each year, 2018 just might be best for these two Vikings. Another year playing together along with Cousins under center, sky’s the limit in 2018.

Jimmy Garoppolo Sees Himself as the Underdog (@stevea1127)

Leave a reply

Bill Belichick Saw Tom Brady in Jimmy Garoppolo

New England Patriots quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo (10) during an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Sept. 11, 2016, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)

Bill Belichick saw something special in Jimmy Garoppolo from the beginning. Whispers around Foxborough from the moment Garoppolo was drafted claimed he had the same attitude that Tom Brady had when he was drafted. That drive that everyone was better than him and he was the underdog. Bill Belichick loved that in Brady and he loved it in Jimmy Garoppolo too. The relationship with Kyle Shanahan played also a part as to why Belichick sent Garoppolo to the 49ers. Belichick has a lot of respect for Garoppolo and wanted to give him the best chance to win. Garoppolo wasn’t going to get that opportunity in Cleveland.

Bill Belichick Congratulated Garoppolo After Every Win

After every game in December Bill Belichick texted Jimmy Garoppolo congratulating him on his wins according to Sports Illustrated. Now people will spin that and say was he texting Brady after every win he got? That answer is no. For Belichick to text Garoppolo after every win is clear. Belichick really wanted to keep Garoppolo and knows he’ll be something special in years to come.

Garoppolo Was in the Shadow of the Patriot Way

Jimmy Garoppolo looked up to Brady and was excited to be in his shadow. He wanted to really be just like him but in his own way. Garoppolo told the Bleacher Report that he was really trying to get the starting job. That was his goal but Brady was standing in the way of that. Jimmy Garoppolo’s mother said, “Bill really, really liked Jimmy. Not like they were warm and fuzzy—but they both knew it was there.”

I wonder how many former players receive a text from Bill Belichick after a win? The answer I’m sure is not many. Jimmy Garoppolo is his own person who idolized Tom Brady and the Patriot way. He has taken that with him to San Francisco in hopes to bring a Super Bowl to Tom Brady’s childhood favorite team.

Grading The Celtics’ Offseason Moves

Leave a reply

The Boston Celtics Have Had a Quiet Summer

The Celtics haven’t made any splashy or eye-popping moves, which is fine. They’ve slowly but surely addressed their needs, largely avoiding the trade market. That said, they’ve made a fair number of moves this summer. Let’s look back at each of them, giving them a grade.

Williams

Staff Photo by Faith Ninivaggi

Drafting Robert Williams

After lots of noise and rumors surrounding Danny Ainge’s interest in moving up, Boston stayed put at pick 27. They selected Robert Williams out of Texas A&M, an intriguing big man with loads of athleticism. So far, that pick hasn’t looked great. He’s had well-publicized problems with lateness and inexplicable gaffes. He also got injured just minutes into his Summer League debut. He didn’t even get a chance to redeem himself before he was injured. It’s obviously far to early to tell if this is a good pick for Boston, but for now, it doesn’t seem like the best choice. Grade: C-

Re-signing Aron Baynes

In the opening hours of free agency, the Celtics brought back Baynes on a two-year, $11 million deal. It’s a great deal for Boston, who brings back a key piece of last year’s team at a good price. He’ll be moving into a bench role, but he’s more of a bruiser than Al Horford and can serve in that role admirably. He’ll also be able to allow the Celtics to put a “tall-ball” lineup on the floor. Overall, it’s a great signing for the team. Grade: A

Photo by Jim Davis/The Boston Globe via Getty Images

Not Biting on Kawhi Leonard

The Celtics were involved in talks about Kawhi Leonard for weeks. Many players were included in rumors, but the Celtics apparently only offered pick-heavy packages. In the end, they decided not to go after the polarizing forward. This was a smart play by the team. Sure, the team would have added even more top-tier talent. However, by getting Kawhi, the team would have been too overstaffed with wings to afford everyone playing time. There were obviously chemistry questions as well. I, for one, am glad the Celtics stayed out of the circus. Grade: B+

Re-signing Marcus Smart

Best move the Celtics could possibly have made this summer. I outline it in more detail here, but this deal is huge for so many reasons. It locks him in for multiple years, leaving less of a headache in upcoming years. He’s also incredibly valuable to the team, and he’s proved that he’s worth every penny of his contract. I love this move by Boston. Grade: A+

Signing Brad Wanamaker

Wanamaker came from Europe to sign with Boston this summer. The 6’4 guard joins a crowded backcourt to reunite with former German teammate Daniel Theis. His numbers are decent, but it’ll be his defense that’s of worth to the Celtics. He’s got a big body that will help him defend multiple positions. However, at best, he’s an end-of-the-bench player that could play minutes in a Shane Larkin-esque role. Grade: C+

Via Eurohoops

Trading Abdel Nader for Rodney Purvis

The Celtics were going to release Nader, but they instead opted to trade him and cash to the Thunder for Purvis. It’s unlikely that Purvis will ever see the court, as the team likely made this move in order to make cap room. Trading Nader rather than releasing him saves the team around $500K, and Purvis’ contract is fully non-guaranteed. He’ll likely be waived. The move isn’t earth-shattering, but every little bit helps to get the team more money. The move was intelligent, but doesn’t have major implications. Grade: B

The team’s moves this summer have, for the most part, been solid moves geared towards preparing for a title run. There’s been a questionable decision here and there, sure. Be that as it may, the Celtics have done what they have been doing for the last few summers, which is making good moves that benefit the team in the long run. The offseason is far from over (remember a particular August trade involving two point guards?), but expect Boston to stay away from splashy moves. They’re content with their core- now all that’s left is waiting for training camp.

Follow me on Twitter: @jackbuffett_

RED ICE- Concussions in the NHL (@pastagrl88)

Leave a reply

“I think the NHL has misread its hand. This is not going away. This is much bigger than they hoped. I don’t want money at all. I just want research and funding and for them to have neurologists for teams”-former Bruin player Nick Boynton in an exclusive interview with TSN.

On July 13th, Judge Susan Nelson denied the request of 150+ players in bringing a class action lawsuit against the NHL. Players have also asked the league to provide medical care in detecting symptoms consisting with Alzheimers, depression, dementia etc. Judge Nelson stated that there’s needs to be “substantial proof” that playing hockey increases the likelihood of being diagnosed with a neurodegenerative disease. If you want proof, ask those players whose lives have changed drastically after suffering multiple concussions.

Hockey has always had this warrior-like atmosphere where players are expected to skate through injuries; after all, when you suffer from multiple concussions, you’re “damaged goods”.  You play on, but at what cost? And why is the NHL so hesitant in investing money into research to gain a better understanding of this debilitating disease?  In a multi-part series, we take an in-depth look at CTE in the NHL.

PUNCH DRUNK

CTE

PHOTO CREDITS: (MGN)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Aggressiveness. Depression. Impulsive behavior. Confusion. Dementia. These are just a few symptoms of CTE or Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy. It was first diagnosed in 1928 by Dr. Harrison Martland after he described boxers with having “punch drunk syndrome.” In 2005, the first published case of CTE was on former Pittsburgh Steeler Mike Webster. Generally, symptoms don’t appear until the late 20s or 30s. Cognitive symptoms appear in your 40s and 50s. According to the Concussion Legacy Foundation in Boston people who suffer from CTE have sustained hundreds or more trauma to head, whether through sports or military service.

Football tops the list with 200+ confirmed cases of those suffering from CTE. Hockey has 20+ confirmed cases so far. But it’s important to note that not every athlete that has suffered a concussion will end up with CTE. But the longer you’re exposed to head trauma, the likelihood of experiencing symptoms are that much higher. Treating CTE can be difficult as it’s a disease diagnosed after death. However, if an athlete feels they may have CTE, there are types of therapies available. Unfortunately, for many help came too late.

CHEAP HITS AND TRAGEDY

NHL enforcers Derek Boogaard, left, Rick Rypien and Wade Belak

PHOTO CREDITS: (GETTY IMAGES)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“Red ice sells hockey”

Fighting draws in the crowd, and when the NHL was looking to expand to a new audience in the ’60s and ’70s, violence was promoted. If you knew how to fight, you were an “enforcer”. Dropping gloves would be a regular staple during the ’70s and ’80s. As the NHL moved away from an era of the Broad Street Bullies, fighting still had a presence.  But at what cost?

In 2011, the Hockey world would be hit with few tragedies. The question of banning fighting was thrust into the limelight.  Interestingly enough, many players are not keen on the idea of removing the fighting element from hockey, even bristling at the idea.

“I hate that it’s even being talked about. It’s absolutely ridiculous that even the notion of fighting being taken out. What a terrible mindset.”-Buffalo Sabres captain Steve Ott

While many players feel that throwing punches isn’t the sole cause of concussions, the effects of cheap hits and high sticks are all too real.  The deaths of three players in 2011 offered a real glimpse of what these players go through to deal with the pain that comes with playing a physical contact sport.  In the summer of 2011, the close-knit hockey community would suffer a few devastating blows.

THE BOOGEYMAN

Derek Boorgard

PHOTO CREDITS: (USATSI

At 6-foot-7, 265 pounds Derek Boogaard, aka “Boogeyman, had a menacing presence in the NHL. In his debut with the Minnesota Wild, he fought 16 times. With a reputation as one of the most feared enforcers, for many rookies, dancing with the Boogeyman was a rite of passage. Suffering from shoulder and hand issues, Boogaard also dealt with recovering from multiple concussions. Sadly, this would lead to a reliance on painkillers. Fighting would take a toll on Boogaard’s body.

After spending some time in rehab in 2009 and in 2011, Boogaard returned to Minnesota before playing for the New York Rangers.  It would be his last NHL campaign. He was found dead in an apartment he shared with his brother from an accidental overdose of drugs and alcohol. Boogaard’s family successfully sued the NHL two years after his passing. His family also accused the teams he played for over-prescribing painkillers. Examinations of Boogaard’s brain showed evidence of advanced chronic traumatic encephalopathy.

A SECOND DEATH

Image result for rick rypien

Three months after Boorgarad’s death and fresh from signing with the Winnipeg Jets, 27 year-old Rick Rypien committed suicide. He had been suffering from depression for tenyears and took two leaves of absences while playing for the Canucks. He would live with fellow teammate Kevin Bieska and his family so that someone would keep watch over him. When Rypien failed to show up for a physical, teammates grew concerned. Unfortunately, a family member found his body at his home in Coleman, Alberta.

A SAD ENDING

Image result for wade belak

PHOTO CREDITS: (John Russell)

A couple of weeks after Rypien death, former Nashville Predator Wade Belak was found dead, hanging in a hotel room. The former enforcer was known for being a ferocious fighter, however, he was also known for having a great sense of humor. According to his mother, he had been battling depression for a while. For these players, there is the unspoken emotional toll of being a fighter and a sense of being invincible. For many, depression isn’t something you talk about. Former Leaf player Nick Kypreos said it poignantly,

“You don’t really discuss your inner feelings about the job description with another guy who fights. You just know.”

PART TWO

Next week in our series, we discuss the NHL response, including the claim of ignorance of several team owners when it comes to understanding CTE.

 

PHOTO CREDITS: (Michael Seamans)

 

Follow Liz Rizzo on Twitter @pastagrl88

Dombrowski

Dave Dombrowski Has Done a Great Job

Leave a reply

On August 18th, 2015 Dave Dombrowski was announced as President of Baseball Operations for the Red Sox. The Red Sox had a 52-66 record, dead last in the AL East. Ever since then, they won two straight division titles and are on pace for a record-breaking season. However, Dombrowski gets a lot of hate, and here is why he does not deserve it.

The Farm System

The biggest gripe with Dombrowski is that he has sold off to many assets, depleting the farm system. When he took over the Red Sox had one of the best farm systems in baseball, now they have one of the worst. Dombrowski has made a lot of trades, and also held on to some valuable players. In 2015, the Red Sox top prospects were Yoan Moncada, Rafael Devers, Brian Johnson, Andrew Benintendi and Michael Kopech. Yoan Moncada and Michael Kopech were traded for Chris Sale, and Devers, Johnson, and Benintendi are on the big league club right now. He also has signed David Price and J.D. Martinez and traded for Craig Kimbrel.

How It Has Turned Out

The Chris Sale trade has turned out very well for the Red Sox. He has started both all-star games as a Red Sox, was a runner-up for Cy young in 2017 and favorite to win it this year. Moncada has been awful for the White Sox, hitting .231 with twelve home runs this year. Kopech has not been in the big leagues yet, and he has a 4.29 ERA this year in Triple-A Charlotte. Andrew Benintendi was called up in August of 2016 and has not disappointed since.

He is hitting .303 this year, has 14 home runs and 59 RBI’s, and a great left fielder defensively. Dombrowski could have traded him at multiple different points, but he was smart enough not to and it has worked out. Rafael Devers was called up in the middle of last year, started off hot, and has been decent this year. He has fourteen home runs but is hitting .239 and struggles in defensively. He is only 21 years old and Dombrowski was smart not to trade him given his upside.

Brian Johnson has been an important role player for the Red Sox this year. He can come out the bullpen and do well in a spot start. The David Price signing has not worked as many hoped. Has he lived up to his contract? No. But is he a proven great pitcher capable of pitching in big games? Yes. The Craig Kimbrel trade has been a steal. Manuel Margot has been decent as a Padre, but Kimbrel has been the best or one of the best closers in the MLB since the trade. JD Martinez has been a monster in his first season, hitting 29 home runs and being the power hitter they lacked in 2017.

The Bottom Line for Dombrowski

Dave Dombrowksi has not been perfect as President of baseball operations, but he has done a very good job. He has depleted the farm system, but the trades he made, or trades he chose not to make have worked out for the most part. Could you imagine a team with no Sale, Price, Kimbrel, or some of the key young pieces traded? Well, if Dave Dombrowski was not hired, that may be where the team would be at.

Patriots Training Camp Preview: Linebackers

Leave a reply

There are many new faces on the Patriots compared to last year. The Pats acquired four guys from trade, fifteen from free agency, and nine from the NFL Draft. They also lost nine players from trade and free agency and had three players retire.

In this new series, I will be looking at every player from each position leading up to training camp. For this installment I will talk about the linebackers. The linebacking core last year for New England was very depleted due to injury. They managed to maintain their depth while also drafting two linebackers this year.

Dont’a Hightower #54 (2012-Present):

Dont’a Hightower is now in his seventh season in the NFL and for the Patriots. Hightower was the 25th overall pick by New England in the 2012 NFL Draft out of Alabama. In his rookie year, Hightower was playing with guys like Jerod Mayo, Rob Ninkovich, and Brandon Spikes. In 2012, he played in 14 games and had 60 tackles, four sacks, and one TD. The next three years saw him appearing in 40 games, and racking up 279 tackles and 10.5 sacks. Hightower’s 2016 season saw him playing in 13 games and having 65 tackles and 2.5 sacks. This season got Hightower recognized by the NFL, as he was named to the AP All-Pro Second team.

Hightower has also shown up in a big way in the playoffs. His first four playoff games consisted of 22 tackles and one INT. He came up huge in Super Bowl 49 against Seattle, where he tackled Lynch at the one yard line to prevent a late score. The Patriots’ next Super Bowl proved to be a big one for Hightower as well. He had what many people call the “turning point” of the Super Bowl when he strip-sacked Matt Ryan.

https://twitter.com/patriotszn/status/924497845494996993

Dont’a Hightower had high expectations heading into the 2017 season. However, those expectations were ruined as seven weeks into the season as he suffered a torn pectoral muscle. The Pats placed him on the IR, and he finished with 14 tackles and two sacks. A healthy Dont’a Hightower is one of the best linebackers in all of football. With a guy like Hightower back, the Pats are in it for another Super Bowl run. He is a lock to make the team come regular season.

Kyle Van Noy #53 (2016-Present):

Kyle Van Noy is entering his fifth NFL season, and third for New England. Van Noy entered the league as the 40th overall pick for Detroit in the 2014 draft. After two and a half years in Detroit, Van Noy was traded to New England. He played seven games for New England after the trade, and had 27 tackles, one sack, and one INT. In 2017, Van Noy started in 12 of the 13 games he appeared in. He had his best season in the NFL, as he totaled 73 tackles, and 5.5 sacks. Van Noy also stepped up big in the 2017 playoffs when he had 16 tackles and one sack.

Van Noy was a very solid mid-season addition by New England in 2016. He was pushed into a very big role after the Hightower role, and he stepped up big. Van Noy can cover tight ends and rush the passer when needed to. Overall, considering the skills Van Noy has, and the lack of depth at linebacker, I think he will make the team.

Elandon Roberts #52 (2016-Present):

Elandon Roberts was the 214th overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft. He is now entering his third NFL season. As a rookie, Roberts played in 13 games and started five. He totaled 45 tackles and one forced fumble in that span. Roberts also played in all three of the Pats’ 2016 playoff games, having seven tackles. He had a larger role in his second season due to the injury to Hightower. Roberts played in 15 games while starting 14 and had 67 tackles, two sacks, and one fumble recovery. He played in the three playoff games, and had 15 tackles. His play in the Super Bowl garnered a lot of hate from Pats fans, however. This was due to the amount of blown coverage by Roberts that led to the Super Bowl defeat.

Roberts has exceeded a lot of fans’ expectations as a sixth round pick. He has had a solid career so far, but his Super Bowl 51 woes need to be fixed. Overall, he is still very young in his career, and I think he is more than likely going to have roster spot for next season.

Marquis Flowers #59 (2017-Present):

Marquis Flowers is heading into his fifth year in the NFL and second for New England. He was selected 212th overall by Cincinnati, and played three seasons there. His career with the Bengals was mainly as a special-teamer, as he had only 13 tackles over 32 games. He was then traded to New England before the 2017 season. Flowers played in all 16 games for the Pats, while having 30 tackles and 3.5 sacks. He also played in the three playoff games, totaling six tackles and one sack in that span.

Flowers was a quiet pick up for New England, as many people viewed him as a special-teamer only. He managed to show that he can rush the passer at will, or drop into coverage. After the season, Flowers signed a one-year deal with the team to remain in New England. Overall, with the ability that Flowers possesses it will be tough to cut him.

Christian Sam (Rookie):

Chrisitan Sam was the 178th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft for the New England Patriots. Sam played all four seasons during his career at Arizona State. In Sam’s first two seasons for the Sun Devils he played in 22 games. In that span, Sam had 114 tackles, four sacks, and two INTs. He was a medical redshirt in 2016 when he suffered a season ending foot injury in the first game of the year. Sam came back, and had his best season to date. He played in 12 games and had 127 tackles, three sacks, and one INT.

Sam is a very athletic linebacker who works best in zone coverage. He has great vision and makes quick reads, almost like a safety. Sam will still have to fight to make the team, but he brings a lot skills that the Pats did not have before. He could make it to the practice squad, but the Pats risk him being picked up by another team.

Ja’Whaun Bentley (Rookie):

Ja’Whaun Bentley was selected in the fifth-round with the 143rd overall pick by the Patriots. He was a four-year starter at Purdue where he played in 37 games. In Bentley’s first three seasons at Purdue, he had 175 tackles, one sack, and one INT. Bentley played in 12 games in his senior season, and had 97 tackles, one sack, and one INT. Bentley was an honorable mention for the All-Big-Ten team and was a Pro Football Focus All-American for his 2017 season.

https://twitter.com/SchutteCFB/status/932015422978785280

Bentley is a lot different than his fellow member of his draft class, Christian Sam. Bentley is more of a hard-hitting run-stuffer. He does not excel being in coverage or pass-only situations. The Patriots did draft him higher than Sam though, and they see something in him. Overall,

Harvey Langi #48 (2017-Present):

Harvy Langi is looking to enter his first healthy season for the Patriots. Langi was an undrafted free agent out of BYU when the Pats picked him up in 2017. He was one of the four undrafted free agents last year to make the final roster. Things did not start out well for Langi as tragedy struck him before the season started. In October, a driver rear-ended Langi’s car which lead to injuries to his neck, head, and back. Langi was placed on the reserve/non-football injury list due to his injuries, and missed the rest of the season.

Langi’s 2017 season was a sad one as he only played in one game. He has a chance to show what he would have been last year as he looks to make the roster again. It will be tough to make the roster with the addition of the two new draftees. Langi could be cut then placed on the practice squad, but anything can happen with him.

Nicholas Grigsby #50 (2017-Present):

Nicholas Grigsby is entering his third season in the NFL and second for the Patriots. Grigsby was an undrafted free agent out of Pitt before he signed with the Rams. He spent most of his season for the Rams on the practice squad before playing the final six games. Grigsby was then waived before the 2017 season, and was picked up by the Baltimore Ravens. He did not play one game for Baltimore and eventually the Patriots picked him off of their practice squad. Grigsby played in 5 games for New England in 2017, and had 5 total tackles.

Grigsby is primarily a special-teamer. I believe out of all the linebackers on the Pats, he will have the toughest time making the team. His best chance is by making the practice squad.

Overall, the Patriots have a few new additions at linebacker. Guys like Sam and Bentley can come in right away and contribute. Also, the return of Langi and Hightower from injuries could be key in another Pats’ Super Bowl run.