Trade Options: Defensive Superstar in New England?

Zach Martin got paid. He signed a six-year, $84 million extension, which includes $40 million guaranteed. This eclipses another guard signing earlier in the spring, when Andrew Norwell signed with the Jaguars for 5 years on a $66.5 million contract. These now set a precedent on the market for this position in free agency this year. Shaq Mason is on the final year of his contract, and there is a good chance the Patriots won’t pay him. Another important fact of note is that Joe Thuney is coming off of foot surgery heading into the season. Let’s look into potential players the Patriots could target via trade if they decide to trade either of these players. These may be unlikely, but it’s fun to think about!

*Note – These do not take cap values into account.

Carlos Dunlap

The Bengals need offensive line help badly, considering more of their offensive game is slowly centering around Joe Mixon. The Patriots clearly need a more consistent pass rush, which was evident in the Super Bowl. Both Mason and Dunlap are in the final years of their contract. It’s a win-win.

Earl Thomas

There have been numerous rumors about the Seahawks looking to trade Earl Thomas. While it’s wishful thinking, the Patriots could package either guard with a high pick to get him. The Seahawks do need the help at offensive line, and Patriots fans would be happy seeing Jordan Richards off the roster.

Chandler Jones

*Cue music* Reunited and it feels so gooood…

Having Chandler Jones back in New England would be amazing. He is a proven all-pro player that came out of our system. If the Patriots could work around how much he costs, Jones will be a valuable help to the young New England pass rush. Additionally, Arizona would love more protection for their promising rookie and injury-prone veteran.

Thus…

All of these players would be an absolutely amazing help to this already revamped defense. It will ultimately come down to the cost of the players. However, if the Patriots absolutely love one of them, they won’t stop short to get him.

Follow me on Twitter @devansh0429

The Best Free Agent Signings in Bruins History

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Throughout their rich history, the Bruins made some great additions through free agency. Below, we present our picks for the Bruins’ top 12 best free agents signings.

James Gaitlin (@JamieGatlin1217)’s Picks:

Torey Krug

Boston gave Krug a contract after he went undrafted in 2012. Since then, the Michigan State product has improved his defensive game and excelled offensively. Krug has scored 52 goals and 183 assists for Boston. He has been a weapon on the power play as 20 of his 52 goals have come on the man advantage. He helped the Bruins advance to the Stanley Cup finals in the 2012- 2013 season. The Bruins have control of Krug for the next two seasons after extending him in June 2016. Krug has become into an impactful player that many people did not see coming and has been key to the Bruins’ success.

Zdeno Chara

During the 2006 offseason the Bruins signed Chara to a five-year deal worth $7.5 million annually, which at the time was the largest for a defenseman. Since signing that deal Chara, has had an historic career in Boston. He won the Norris Trophy in 2009 and has had multiple top five finishes since. Chara has recorded more than fifty points in a season three times in his twelve year tenure in Boston. His importance to the franchise is not just reflected in his stats. As Chara becomes older, he has served as a mentor for the younger Bruins. He is a key mentor for the next wave of Bruins defensemen, including Brandon Carlo and Charlie McAvoy. Signing Chara may be the best free agent signing in franchise history as his career in Boston has been that will be hard to replicate.

Blake Wheeler

Wheeler spent the first three seasons of his career with the Bruins before being traded for Rich Peverely. He was drafted in the first round by the Coyotes, but the Bruins were able to sign him away. Wheeler recorded 45 points in his first year in Boston, including three game-winning goals. He followed that up with a 38 point season that included two game winning goals. Wheeler was a solid player in Boston and brought the Bruins Peverley, who contributed to their championship run in 2011.

Glen Murray

Murray spent the first three years of his career with the Bruins before leaving for Pittsburgh after the 1994-1995 season. Murray returned to the Bruins via trade in the 2001-2002 season. After scoring 35 goals in 73 games, the Bruins re-signed their former first round pick. Murray followed up his 35 goal season with a career year as he had 44 goals along with 48 assists. He led the league with 32 even strength goals and had five game winners. After re-signing with the Bruins he had the two best seasons of his career making the contract one the Bruins would not regret.

Anton Khudobin

Prior to the 2016-2017 the Bruins signed free agent Anton Khudobin to a two-year deal worth $1.2 million. Khudobin struggled mightily in the first half of the 2016-2017 season before finishing strong. This past season Khudobin had the best season of his career. He was the strong backup the Bruins had been missing and pushed Rask to be his best. Khudobin had his lowest goals against average 2013- 2014 season and recorded his first shutout in two years. Khudobin breakout season made what the Bruins paid worthwhile and re-signing him could be key.

Bruce Crowder

Bruce Crowder began his career with the Flyers after they drafted him 153rd overall in the 1977 NHL draft. The Bruins signed Crowder 1981 and remained in Boston through 1984. In three years with the Bruins he scored 43 goals and had 44 assists. Crowder was not an extremely dangerous offensive player, but he had three solid seasons in Boston

Liz Rizzo (@pastagrl88)’s Picks

Gerry Cheevers

Wild, feisty, bombastic and highly competitive, this legendary goaltender is on our list as one the best free agents signings in Bruins history. From St. Catherine, Ontario, the Toronto Maple leafs owned his rights during the 1960s. He was picked up by Boston in 1965, played in the minors for a while before playing in the NHL in 1967. A knee injury led to his demotion to Oklahoma City where he met Harry Sinden.

In the following year, Sinden was promoted as head coach of the Boston Bruins. When their starting goaltender suffered an injury, Cheevers got the call. That summer, Boston had to make a decision in which goaltenders they would protect in the draft; they kept Cheevers and Eddie Johnston. Cheevers played 44 games with a 2.83 average to Johnston’s 20 with a 2.87 save average. The Bruins won the Stanley Cup in the 1969-1070 series and in 1972. Cheevers went to the WHA before being signed again as a free agent with the Bruins. In 1980, he retired in Boston. After 13 seasons in the NHL, Cheevers was inducted into the Hall of Fame. Harry Sinden said it best about Cheevers:

“Certainly we had Bobby Orr and Phil Esposito, but I’m sure we couldn’t have won the Cups without Gerry Cheevers”

Johnny Boychuk

A top four level defensemen, Boychuk came to Boston via Colorado and proved to be an important member of the Bruins during their 2010-2011 Stanley Cup win. Boychuk played both defense and offense. In his six years with the Bruins he played 317 games, with 19 goals, 56 assists for 75 points, playing an average of 20 minutes on ice. In the shortened 2012-2013 season, Boychuk played consistently in the defensive zone. The Bruins traded Boychuk to the New York Islanders for two picks, one of which would be Brandon Carlo.

Mark Recchi

In 2009, free agent Recchi signed a deal with the Boston Bruins and was part of the 2011 Stanley Cup team. He played 25 games that year with five goals. In his three years with the Bruins he played 180 games, with 42 goals and 65 assists. His last year in the NHL he played as a defensive forward with more than half his shift time spent in the defensive zone. He made three Stanley Cup playoff appearances with the last being in Boston. At age 43, he became the oldest player to ever score in the Stanley Cup finals. In June 2017, Recchi was elected into the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Dominic Moore

A tough fourth liner center, Moore turned out to be a pretty good signing by current GM Don Sweeney. As a free agent, he signed a one year deal with the Bruins worth $900,000. Moore played a strong game: in 82 games he netted 11 goals with 14 assists. He was a clutch face-off player and consistently killed penalties. For what the Bruins paid for they received a lot in return.

Riley Nash

Along with Anton Khudobin, Nash was signed as a free agent to a two-year, $1.8 million contract in 2016. Nash made good on his contract and came in when the Bruins needed him. With Patrice Bergeron out this past season with an injury, Nash filled that spot nicely. In the Toronto Playoff series, Nash contributed to the first two goals in Game four. He finished this season with 41 points, played in 76 games with 15 goals and 26 assists. Nash proved to be little risk for the Bruins, but with how he’s been performing, it’s proving to be a good investment.

Marc Savard

In the 2004-2005 NHL lockout, Savard played in Swiss league prior to signing as a free agent with Bruins in a four-year, $20 million dollar deal. He led the Bruins in scoring tallying up 96 points. He had 74 assists (third in the league) behind Joe Thornton and Sidney Crosby. After 11 seasons in the NHL, he made his Stanley Cup Playoff debut. He scored his first NHL Playoff goal in overtime in Game 3 against Montreal.

In the 2008-2009 season, he led the Bruins in scoring with 88 points in 82 games. Unfortunately, Savard career took a bad turn when he suffered multiple concussions. Diagnosed with post concussion syndrome, Savard was not able to participate in the Vancouver series in the 2011 Stanley Cup Win. Despite not playing in that series, the Bruins petitioned to have Savard’s name engraved on the cup and was successful in doing so. Savard had a breakthrough career with the Bruins from 2006-2011 and formally announced his retirement in 2018.

Tone Your Legs With These Lunge Variations

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The lunge is a type of strength training workout that can be performed by practically anyone ranging from athletes to yogis. Moreover, the lunge is effective in improving your muscle strength, balance and stability alongside toning your legs. In addition to this, most athletes use it as a warm-up to reduce the risk of injury. The lunge mainly focuses on lower-body areas like the glutes, quads and hamstrings.

Besides working out, you must ensure you eat a healthy and balanced diet. Performance enhancements and supplements can also come in handy in boosting your training.

Performing only one type of lunge can be tedious. To break the boredom, here are some of the variations you can try out.

Lateral Lunge

Stand with your feet extended wider than the shoulders. Grab a dumbbell in each hand and hold them by your sides. With your left foot, take a step to the left while keeping your arms straight. Stretch the left knee so that you lower your hip and body until your knee and hip form a 90-degree angle. Ensure that your left leg is slightly angled but doesn’t touch the ground. Return to the starting position by extending your left hip and knee. Once straight, bring your foot back by standing straight. Repeat with the right leg.

Diagonal Lunge

Stand straight with your chest up and your feet at hip width apart. Grab a dumbbell in each hand and hold them on each side. This will be your starting position. Use your left foot to step behind the right foot in a diagonal line. Bend both knees while ensuring your left knee forms a 90-degree angle and the right knee is slightly bent but not touching the ground. Get to the starting position and repeat with the right leg.

Reverse Lunge

Begin with your feet shoulder-width apart. While you keep your chest up, grab dumbbells in each hand and hold one on each side. Assume this is your starting position. With your right foot, step backward and lower your right knee to the floor creating a 90-degree angle. Push to the ground with your right foot to bring both feet together to a standing position. Ensure your arms are straight throughout. Alternate and try with the left foot.

Balance Lunge

This lunge variation aims to improve your balance and stability. Stand in front of a fixed bench with your feet at hip width apart. Lift your left leg on top of the bench. In each hand, grab a dumbbell and hold them on each side while keeping your chest up. Let this be your starting position. Lower your body downwards so that the right knee forms a 90-degree angle while the left knee makes a 45-degree angle but doesn’t touch the floor. Press on your right foot to return to the starting position. Then, change to the other leg.

Walking Lunge

Stand straight with your feet some distance apart and hands at your waist. Take a big step forward with your right leg. Then, lower your body to the ground while ensuring your right knee forms a 90-degree angle and you left knee is slightly bent but doesn’t touch the ground. Push off the surface with the left foot so that the left knee comes in front to the same position as the right knee was. Continue that way to form a walking pattern. Ensure your chest is up throughout.

Celtics Draft Profile: Robert Williams

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The NBA draft has been very entertaining in recent Celtics memory. Thursday’s festivities were stale in comparison, but fans everywhere were pleasantly surprised when former Texas A&M big man Robert Williams, a projected lottery pick, fell into Boston’s lap with the 27th pick in the draft.

So- what will the 20-year-old center bring to the table for an already loaded Celtics team?

The practical answer is not much- yet. Lauded as one of the more raw prospects in the draft, Williams is not guaranteed to develop into a top NBA player. However, the potential is certainly there. After studying his film for two straight days, we’ve broken down every aspect of his game. We condensed his strengths, weaknesses, and comparisons into one, convenient profile. Time to learn everything about the Celtics’ latest young prospect, and what his game will provide to this championship-caliber team.

Strengths

Let’s start with the glass-half-full approach. When it comes to rebounding, Williams is at the top of his class. He averaged 9.2 rebounds per game as an Aggie, while demonstrating an excellent ability to use his strength and size to box out players of all sizes. Rebounding is the one area Williams will be able to contribute to right away, as the Celtics were a middle-of-the-road rebounding team for the fourth straight season. Having such a young prospect excel in a sorely needed role will drastically boost his potential in Brad Stevens’ system.

Williams was also one of the best rim-protecting big men in this draft class. With quick feet, extreme length, and brute strength, he dominated some of the SEC’s best guards consistently at the rim. His 2.6 blocks per game were among the highest numbers in the nation, and served to push his draft stock into the lottery. His superb ability to defend the paint with vigor and switch onto smaller guards and forwards will make him an incredibly valuable asset,. Especially late in the season, when offenses ignite and defenses begin to tighten up.

Rounding out the strengths list are the intangibles that the sophomore possesses. He simply oozes potential as a defensive oriented, rim-rolling menace. Let’s put a scenario into play- Terry Rozier brings the ball up and receives a hard screen courtesy of Williams. The opposing defender goes over the pick, looking to cut into Rozier’s air space, and Williams goes flying to the rim in search of an oncoming lob. If (and when) the defense collapses to discourage an easy slam, Rozier can simply kick the ball to a wide open Jaylen Brown or Marcus Morris. If the opposing team defends the three-point line, Williams can take the lob for an electrifying alley-oop, and the Garden can erupt with euphoric cheers. With the right coaching and proper development, that is exactly the kind of scenario that we could see play out many a time next season.

Weaknesses

No prospect is perfect, though we wish. It was no coincidence that Williams fell 15 slots from his projected selection spot. His motor was questioned during his run at Texas A&M, and he was caught sleeping at times when high-powered offenses got out on the fast-break.

While he displayed some proficient post moves in his two seasons at college, his shooting was questionable. The mechanics are certainly there, but his shot will undoubtedly require some serious work. Court vision and passing were also question marks for the prototype big-man. He certainly won’t rack up Al Horford-like assist numbers. Rounding out his short list of weaknesses is his ability to steal the basketball. Williams only racked up 0.8 steals per game in both seasons at A&M while displaying a lack of awareness at times in the college system. Williams carries the same weakness as a majority of elder-age big men. The difference is he has the potential to fix them during his tenure as a Celtic.

Comparisons

Ceiling: Jermaine O’Neal, 6x All-Star

This is wishful thinking; O’Neal was an all-time defensive talent, and one of the top players in the NBA in his prime. At 6’11 and 253 pounds, Jermaine certainly has a size advantage over the 6’10 236 pound Williams. Their college stats are comparable, and O’Neal’s offensive game came to him over time; I expect the same for Williams. Both had questionable motors at times, but O’Neal was able to showcase one of the highest defensive energies in the league over time. It remains to be seen whether Williams will be able to do the same.

Floor: Udonis Haslem

Haslem, though a Heat fan favorite, was never considered an NBA star. His ability to box out and rebound, while defending multiple positions was valuable, but his lack of offensive consistency kept him off of the floor in the latter stages of his career. He is the all time leader in rebounds for the Miami Heat, no short achievement. With the right coaching, Williams has the chance to do what Haslem did and more for the Celtics. Both compare well in size and had an identical list of strengths and weaknesses.

Summary and Impact

Williams was the absolute perfect pick for the Celtics. He provides the team with a select skill set that meshes flawlessly with what Boston needs. With Aron Baynes and Daniel Theis set to return next season, Williams is likely to spend most of the 2018-19 season with the Maine Red Claws. But make no mistake; he surely factors in to Boston’s long-term plans. Bringing the 20-year-old along slowly gives Boston a chance to make the best of however many seasons Al Horford has left, and when the time is right, Brad Stevens should willingly be ready to hand the keys over to the young big guy.

Williams has a lot to learn, and some of the best teachers in the league to educate him. Don’t expect him to make any noticeable impact next season- but the upside he possesses is tremendous. There is a very good chance that Boston just drafted Horford’s successor, and potentially a future NBA star.

Big Boom or Big Bust: Robert Williams III

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What’s the old saying? The rich get richer? That’s what appears to have happened for the Celtics this past Thursday at the 2018 NBA Draft. Big names fell to where most mock draft boards had them going, but perhaps no bigger name (or shoes) in the draft felt more like a steal than the 6’10″ 240lb Texas A&M center Robert Williams III. Falling all the way to #27, Brad Stevens commented:

”Each pick we were hoping more and more he would be available at 27 .. The ability to block shots, the ability to alter shots, the quickness to catch up to guards shooting if they get a step and still be able to alter that … and then, if you can have four shooters on the floor and a guy like that rolling to the rim, you can just throw it up in the air and he can go and get it and finish.”

Pretty much nailed it, and high praise for sure. The kid seems like he could fit the mold of a DeAndre Jordan or a poor man’s Dwight Howard (the good one) at best. At worst, he could resemble a Stromile Swift or Joakim Noah. For now, save your money on that Williams III jersey. The defense is elite from this guy, but he could use some work offensively, though. Let’s button down some projections and outlooks for the newest member of the Boston Celtics, Robert Williams III.

A Numbers Game

With 2017-2018 behind us, Boston looks to recharge from an ECF exit. How do you add more electricity to an already supercharged team? You go to Texas and find Robert Williams III. Remember when you had that Nerf hoop and would put all your friends on posters? That’s pretty much what he does with any open look at the rim. RWIII has a wingspan of 7’6”, rivaling fellow draftee Mo Bamba of the Orlando Magic, who measured a record 7’10”. To put it in NBA perspective, Rudy Gobert measured at 7’9”, which was the best in the league before Bamba. Williams III averaged four blocks per 40/min, which is incredible. Gobert is one of the best defenders in the NBA because of the measurement, and it’s an important one for Williams game too.

A smidge undersized for a center height-wise, Williams III’s 240 pounds of physical nature and bully-ball frame will be what gets him off the pine for Stevens if not for his at-the-rim athleticism. Not only does RWIII excel in transition, he’s a solid rebounder that pursues the ball well. With his length and frame he’s often bigger than his opponents, though adding some muscle and establishing a good footwork regimen could help this young spark plug establish a more dominant foundation down low. Don’t sleep on his blocking ability either. With reach like his and being a shot hunter, don’t expect any easy buckets when taking it to the hole.

Lob City 2.0? Possibly! Throw the ball anywhere near the hoop and Williams III will catch it and hurt your feelings. His added energy and try-hard attitude is exactly what Boston needs at the five spot. Baynes gets dunked on while Williams does the dunking. Monroe was serviceable, but he’s past his peak and could be gone sooner than later. Al Horford is where you get what you can’t teach, leadership. Theis will be back as well which could slide Al to his natural four spot, and falling into a mentor role wonderfully. Williams would be the second wind Horford desperately needs as his career winds down.

Adding someone like RWIII to the already #1 defensive team in the NBA seems unfair, and having him being able to throw it down from anywhere seems inhuman. He could be something special in a year or two, but he’s young, and college isn’t the NBA. Rim protector? 100%, as he did win the SEC DPOY his two years of college. Offensively, however, is where RWIII could spend some time on the farm.

Old McDanny

Lately, DA’s been right on the money when drafting young talent. Someone who would make any AAA team proud, Ainge might be the best GM in the NBA. That Nets-Celtics trade that launched DA into GM superstardom was the most crucial moment for the Celtics post-2008. Out with the old, in with the new. Sure, he broke some hearts along the way, but that’s what rock stars do. With a cast of Brown, Rozier, Smart, and Tatum, Williams III seems to be the missing link between Game 7 and hoisting the Larry O Brien. Point of interest, Ainge addressed a major issue that Celtics had without giving up anything to get it. After all, defensive does win championships, and as previously mentioned, the new guy will bring that and then some.

His offense is the biggest question mark when translated to the NBA, though. Bluntly, he’s a poor shooter and fades in and out of games when he reverts to relying on teammates. Luckily he plays in Boston now, so he’ll have plenty of help putting the orange in the hoop and won’t have to carry a high volume scoring load. Still, even getting the ball to teammates might be tough as he’s even worse at passing out of tough situations or double teams, averaging 2.8 turnovers per 40/min. But, not all is lost. Someone named Irving usually handles the ball, so really Williams III just needs to get open. He won’t wow you with points, and his offensive blunders could have him spending time in the G League. If that is the case he won’t be there for long, if at all.

With recent, unexpected success coming so early from the Celtic youth, it’s hard to argue Danny didn’t get this one right too. RWIII isn’t going to blow you away on the offensive end every night, Boston has other players for that. DA drafted the exact player the Celtics needed: a defensive anchor. Another case of the Luck of the Irish seems to be the culprit, because a lot of teams needed the skill-set that comes along with a Robert Williams yet passed up on him twenty-six times. Why? Even tougher to find a real center anymore in the NBA, RWIII’s name could soon be coupled with Ayton and Bamba in years to come.

The Good, Bad, and Ugly

Williams was suspended to start his sophomore season at Texas A&M for an undisclosed reason that was dealt with at the school level. No doubt Danny Ainge did his own research, and even mentioned the red flags that come with Williams in a post draft interview. His college coach was quoted, “unfortunately, young people make mistakes”. Hopefully he was just caught self-medicating instead of some straight up criminal act. Which is better, right?

We’ve covered Williams offensive struggles, but pay very close attention to this. His complacency in the offensive when he can’t get things going slows him down as well as forces him into bad shots and passes. He shoots reminiscent of JaVale McGee taking a jumper, something no one wants to see. He also shoots free throws like Shaq. Not the most consistent player on either end, either. He might have a big frame but he hardly goes left. If you can stop him going right, you’ve most likely stopped him all together. Also, yes he has “hops”, but that’s a double edge sword as he falls for the slightest of fakes. A could be defensive star, Williams would benefit from getting minutes to keep his at-times-questionable motor running.

Rosters moves could propel or prevent Williams from getting some love, but he’ll bring an instant impact when his name’s called. Having a sweet baby hook when his backs to the basket will be in for a treat. Tatum exceeded expectations, while Rozier and Brown have become household names. DA might’ve found himself another diamond in Williams III, and with elbow grease and polish to his game, there’s potential to be the center of the future for not only Boston, but possibly the NBA.

Rookie Projection

Watch out Easten Conference, Boston has its defensive juggernaut. Ainge didn’t have to make a major trade or give up assets for one, and that’s a win right there. He does appear far behind offensively, so as a rookie he might be able to only offer easy baskets, putbacks, rebounds and blocked shots. Which hell, isn’t too shabby if you ask me. He’ll most likely be used for his athleticism around the basket, though it wouldn’t be surprising if he spent time developing in practice. Can he follow in the footprints of a Clint Capela or a DeAndre Jordan, similar athletes who don’t need the ball or jump shots to be effective? Expect him to be mostly a role player for now with potential to anchor an NBA team down the road.

please make sure to follow me on Twitter @JaxBrown725

NHL Draft 2018

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WELCOME TO BOSTON

Today was day two of the 2018 NHL Draft, and the Bruins made some pretty decent picks. After coming out empty-handed in a “painful” first round, Boston wasted no time in selecting some new faces. With the 57th pick, the Bruins selected Sweden’s Axel Andersson. Next, Jakub Lauko from the Czech Republic was selected. The Bruins’ third pick is American Curtis Hall. Canadian Dustyn McFaul was selected for the 181th pick, and Russian Pavel Shen was their final pick.

SWEDEN

18 year old Axel Andersson was Bruins’ first pick in the second round. At 6’0″ and 183lbs, this blue line defenseman shoots right and describes his playing style as:

“I’m a two way defenseman with some-read the game well and have a good shot and a good passer.”

He spent the last two years playing for the Djurgarden Jr. team in the SuperElit. Axel is ranked 27th on the NHL scouting in Europe. This past season he had a plus 14 rating, netting six goals and 25 assists, earning 31 points in 42 games.

In 2016-2017, he had a plus seven rating with three goals and eight assists (11 points) in 29 games. Prior to that season, he played in 21 games for team Sodertalje SK J18; he had nine assists and a plus 15 rating. Andersson also recently won the bronze metal with Team Sweden in the Under 18 World Junior Championship, where he recorded two assists in seven games.

CZECH REPUBLIC

In their second pick in the third round, Boston selected 6′, 179 lbs 18 year old center Jakub Lauko. The Czech forward is ranked 20th in the NHL scouting for European skaters. A speedy and tenacious skater, Lauko likens himself to Dylan Larkin as a player. On being a Bruin:

“It’s one of the biggest moments in my life so far and I really enjoyed it… I really appreciate it and really thankful to Boston organization that they drafted me.”

STATS

He spent two season on the Chomutov team in the Czech Republic. This past season he had three goals and six assists in 42 games. In the playoffs, he had one goal and two assists. In the Pirati Under 16 team, Lauko had a plus-28 rating. He potted 26 goals with 35 assists for 61 points. With the 2015-2016 Under 18 team, he had a plus-seven rating with 22 points in 29th games.

In the 2017-2018 Under 18 Czech team, he had six goals and one assist for a total of seven points. In the World Junior Championship, he had one goal in six games. For the Under 18 World Junior Team, he had six points in seven games.

USA

Yale-bound Curtis Hall is the Bruins’ third pick (119th overall) and is described as a big, strong center. At 6’3, 201 lbs the New Jersey Native has recently played for the Youngstown Phantoms. He is currently 60th in the NHL Scouting in North America. The young 18 year old likens his playing style after David Backes.

STATS

He registered 13 goals and 18 assists in 54 games playing in the 2017-2018 season. In the playoff games, he earned a plus three rating with three goals and three assists. In 2016-2017, he earned a plus-seven rating with seven goals and 14 assists. While skating for the Cleveland Barons Under 16 in the T1EHL (2015-2016), he netted ten goals with 24 assists.

Hall also played in the Team USA Under 18 team, where he registered three goals and on assist. And lastly, in the 2018 Under 19 World Junior A Challenge, he had one goal and an assist in five games.

CANADA

As the 181th pick, the Bruins selected defenseman Dustyn McFaul. The 17 Year old Ontario native stands at 6’2″, 188lbs and shoots left. Awarded the OJHL First Team All Prospect, McFaul ranks 164th in the NHL Central scouting among skaters. Playing recently for the Pickering Panthers, he netted four goals, with 15 assists in 38 game played. He secured a scholarship to Clarkson University, who has one the top Division 1 hockey programs in the NCAA. His recent coach David DeMarinis had this to say:

“He’s been our rock on the back-end… been playing about 26 minutes a night… [he’s] poised back there. It’s the fine details of his game that are really impressive.”

In the OHL Cup, McFaul registered two assists in the four games he played. IN the Triple A minors, he had two goals and eight assists in the 36 games he played.

RUSSIA

At 6’1″, 183lbs, the Russian center Pavel Shen (described as a “competitive and highly skilled forward”) is their final pick. The 18-year-old has spent most time the MHL for the Mamonty-Yugry team. However, he has played in the KHL for a little bit with team Yugra Khanty-Mansiysk.

STATS

He currently ranks 32nd in the NHL Central Scouting for EU players. In the 2017-2018 season in the MHL (Molodyozhnaya Hokkeinaya Liga) he registered 12 goals, 14 assists in 29 games played, earning a plus 10 rating. For the KHL, he had two goals in 29 games. Shen also participated in the International Junior Russian Under 20 team playing three games with no goals or assists.

Playing for the Under 16 team, Shen netted 27 goals and 18 assists in the 35 games he played. He also had some nice numbers for the Under 17 team; in the 28 games played, he had ten goals with eight assists.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Bruins GM Don Sweeney made some nice moves in this year’s draft. Securing these young players will only add depth to the Bruins Roster. Hopefully, we’ll see some of the speed these players offer in the NHL real soon.

Down on the Farm- 6/16-6/22

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*Every weekend, I will be updating you on weekly results from the Pawtucket Red Sox (AAA), the Portland Sea Dogs (AA), the Greenville Drive (A), Salem Red Sox (High A) and Lowell Spinners (Class A Short Season). After every team is recapped, individual stats are posted. Also, I will have a prospect of the week section at the end. Down on the Farm- 6/16-6/22

Pawtucket Red Sox

Pawtucket went 4-3 on the week, making them an even 36-36 on the season. The Sox started off the week with an 8-1 loss against the IronPigs. The offense was quiet and William Cuevas gave up six runs over four innings in the loss. Pawtucket had another tough loss the next day and lost 3-2. The offense was bad again, and Tyler Thornburg gave up three runs in just 0.1 innings to blow the game. They had an off day on the 18th and split a doubleheader on the 19th.

Tzu Wei Lin hit a home run in the second game and they won 6-0. The Sox continued their momentum and won 10-2 over Buffalo. Josh D. Smith tossed a one-hitter in six innings and Aneury Tavarez hit a home run. Pawtucket defeated Buffalo again this time by the score of 4-1. Justin Haley picked up the win by giving up one run over five innings, and Sam Travis drove in two runs. They ended the week with a 5-4 win over Syracuse. The game was tied at three in the sixth but Tzu Wei Lin hit a blooping two-run single and the bullpen hung on.

Today, Tzu Wei Lin was called up to Boston.

Portland Sea Dogs

Portland went 3-4 on the week and they are now 27-45 on the year. The Sea Dogs started off the week with a 4-0 win over the Baysox. Kyle Hart gave up zero runs in seven innings and Luke Tendler’s home run led the offense. Portland shut down the Baysox again and won 5-3. The offense exploded for five runs in the first inning and Matthew Kent gave up one run over six innings. They had an off day on the 18th and dropped both games of a doubleheader on the 19th.

Mike Shawaryn was roughed up in the first game and Adam Lau picked up the loss in relief in the night game. Portland has roughed up the next game and lost 12-3. The offense was quiet and Dedgar Jimenez gave up seven runs in 4.2 innings. Reading dominated the Sea Dogs again, by the score of 9-1. The offense only recorded three hits, and Kyle Hart gave up seven runs in six innings. Portland closed out the week with a 7-2 win over Trenton. Josh Ockimey knocked in two runs and Matthew Kent gave up one run over six innings.

Salem Red Sox

The Sox went 2-2 over the week and they are now 33-37 on the season. Salem started off the week with a 4-1 loss against the Hillcats. Roldani Baldwin knocked in a run and Jake Thompson gave up two runs in 4.1 innings. They rebounded and won 3-2 the next day. Bobby Dalbec knocked in two runs and Bryan Mata gave up one run in 5.2 innings. The All-Star break happened from the 18th-20th. On the 21st, the Sox lost to the Keys, 2-1. The offense was quiet, which led to Tanner Houck picking up the loss despite him only giving up one run in five innings. Salem finished off the week with a 5-3 win. The offense scored three runs in the eighth Dedgar Hernandez gave up two runs in six innings.

Greenville Drive

Greenville went 2-2 over the week and they are now 26-45 on the season. The Drive started off the week with a 10-4 loss against the RiverDogs. Lorenzo Cedrola knocked in three runs, but Jhonathan Diaz gave up four runs in five innings. They rebounded the next day and won 4-1. Marino Campana drove in two runs and Durin O’Linger gave up one run in seven innings. The All-Star break happened from the 18th-20th. On the 21st, they beat the Tourists 6-3. Ryan Fitzgerald knocked in two runs, and Hildemaro Requena gave up three runs over seven innings. Greenville closed out the week with a 6-2 loss against the Tourists. The offense was quiet and Durin O’Linger gave up four runs in 3.1 innings to pick up the loss.

Lowell Spinners

The Spinners started off the week with a 10-3 loss against the Tigers. Juan Perez gave up five runs in 2.2 innings and the offense was quiet. They rebounded the next day and won 6-3. Garrett Benge drove in two runs, and Victor Garcia gave up no runs in 2.1 innings in relief. Lowell won again the next day by the score of 5-3. Tyler Espin drove in two runs, and Alberto Franco gave up zero runs in two innings of relief to pick up the win. The Spinners beat the Yankees again, 2-1. Kole Cottam knocked in the go-ahead run in the eighth and Taylor Ahearn gave up no runs over four innings to pick up the win.

They were defeated on the 20th by the score of 8-4. The offense was quiet and Eduard Bazardo gave up five runs in five innings. Lowell was defeated by the ValleyCats by the score of 9-3. The offense was quiet again and Brian Brown gave up five runs in 2.2 innings. They closed out the week on a high note, winning 11-4. Tyler Espin knocked in five runs and Rio Gomez gave up one run in two innings to pick up the win.

Prospect of the Week- C.J. Chatham

Age 23

Bats Right

0.277 career average

Plays for Salem

Why the Red Sox Need to Make a Trade Now

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Our Boston Red Sox are 51-26 and one game back from the Yankees as of June 22. We have the most wins in the MLB and first place is well within our grasp. Everything sounds like it is going swimmingly, right? I wouldn’t say so. After dropping two games to the Twins and the Mariners each on the road, there is room for concern. The Red Sox pitching has been good, not stellar, and our offense (before the last two games) was struggling. Here’s why they need to act now:

Trade Season May Be Now

Per Evan Drellich of NBC Sports Boston, “As … trade season picks up, the Red Sox have an eye on adding a reliever and a right-handed bat, a source with knowledge of the team’s thinking said.” Drellich makes a great point in saying that trade season is starting to pick up. We have already seen a couple noteworthy trades happen, with Kelvin Herrera going to the Nationals and Alex Colome and Denard Span (noted Red Sox destroyer) now Mariners.

These trades are noteworthy because they initiate the theme of this trading season: late inning relievers. With the Astros, possibly the Indians, and our Red Sox looking for relief help, these teams will be opening up their prospect-wallets and paying up for the available relievers. Some of the relievers expected to be available are Brad Hand of the Padres, Zach Britton, Darren O’Day, Brad Brach of the Orioles, and Blake Treinen of the A’s among others. As you can see, the elite options are not plentiful, and it’s crucial to act before the other teams.

The Early Trade Pays Off

According to history, trades in early July and late June tend to pay off. Last season, the Cubs traded for former White Sox starter Jose Quintana on July 13, and this caught the MLB world off guard. At the time of the Quintana trade, the Cubs were 5 1/2 games back from the first place Brewers. The Cubs ended up winning the NL Central, and advanced to the NLCS, where the Dodgers defeated them in five games. That is a drastic improvement for the Cubs, and just imagine what that would for the Red Sox.

Rewind to the 2016 season. On July 14, 17 days before the 2016 trade deadline, our Boston Red Sox traded for former Padres starter Drew Pomeranz. At this point in the season, they were two games back from the Orioles, who were in first place. This was just the boost they needed, as they had a big void in that rotation, for we did not have Chris Sale yet. Sure, the Red Sox were swept in the ALDS that year by the Astros, but again, improvement.

A Trade Idea for the Red Sox

(AP Photo/John Minchillo)

One idea for a trade is with Andrew Benintendi’s hometown team, the Cincinnati Reds. They are at a pitiful 30-45 record, which is good for last place in the NL Central. Evan Drellich of NBC Sports Boston said they are looking for a reliever and a right-handed bat. The Reds have closer Raisel Iglesias and infielder Eugenio Suarez, who would be great fits.

Iglesias, so far this season, has a 2.30 ERA in 31 1/3 innings pitched with 12 saves. He is 28, so he is in the midst of prime, and is known for his sinker, which would be great weapon for situations with runners on base. Suarez is primarily a third baseman, but can move over to shortstop or second. This would help give Rafael Devers and Xander Bogaerts days off.

Eugenio Suarez would also help immensely against left-handed pitching. The Red Sox have a weak .685 OPS against left-handed pitching this season, which is 8th worst in the MLB. Suarez has been stellar against left-handed pitching, hitting .357/.486/.679/1.164 against them. This would be a huge boost to the lineup.

The package going to the Reds would be a bit pricey, and I recommend they offer them catcher Blake Swihart, pitcher Bryan Mata (Red Sox No. 4 prospect)*, first baseman Sam Travis (Red Sox No. 5 prospect)*, and shortstop CJ Chatham (Red Sox No. 10 prospect)*.

Happy trading!

*All prospect rankings come from http://m.mlb.com/prospects/2018?list=bos

How to Make the Most out of Patriots Training Camp

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Is it too early to get excited for football season to start? No? Okay good, because training camp is right around the corner.

Patriots Announce First Public Training Camp

The New England Patriots recently announced the date of their first public training camp. Fans are already getting excited to see football at Gillette again. The first public practice will take place on Thursday, July 26. The team has not announced information about their stadium practices yet.

Patriots announce that their first public training camp practice is scheduled for Thursday, July 26. This year marks the 59th annual training camp for the Patriots, including their 16th consecutive camp at Gillette Stadium.

— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) June 21, 2018

Making the Most of Training Camp

Training camp is a great opportunity to enjoy the summer weather and see some football. Usually if you want to see Brady & Co. play it is going to cost you, but training camp gives you a free alternative. Dates that are open to the public are on the Patriots’ website. If you are going to training camp for the first time this year, I have a few tips on how to make your experience the best possible.

The practice is held on the field beside the stadium with limited bleachers. You can try and snag a seat there, but sitting on the grass gives just as good of a view. Be sure to bring a blanket to sit on and lots of water to stay hydrated in the Foxborough heat.

If you are bringing your kids make sure to check out all the activities they have around the field and in the parking lot. Every year they add something new to entertain fans. Many players come up to rope separating the fans from the field to sign autographs after the game, so bring a sharpie if getting a signature is your goal. Be sure to grab a roster from the Gillette workers to keep track of the new guys.

Make a day of it. Patriots Place is home to many restaurants, shops, and bakeries, making it a great place to walk around for the day. While you’re there head over to The Patriots Hall of Fame to take a picture with the Lombardi Trophies and try on a Super Bowl ring.

Views From Training Camp

To show just how close you can get to the action here are two photos I took at last year’s training camp:

I started going to training camp since I was young, and it has always been a fantastic time. It’s a great way to get excited for the upcoming season. Younger fans sit in awe as they are able to see their sports heroes only a few yards away. It is a great alternative if you cannot make it to a game this season.

What Trades to Expect from the Red Sox

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The 2018 Red Sox are at the top of Major League Baseball in a number of things. Batting average, on base percentage, slugging, ERA, FIP, strikeouts- you name it. They’ve been strong in all parts of the game and haven’t had many flaws. There’s always room for improvement, however. Some of the greatest teams of all time even had minuscule flaws.

Boston’s Flaws

This year’s team hasn’t had very good production from second base. With Dustin Pedroia missing almost the whole season thus far, Eduardo Nunez has been taking the toll out at second. And to put it politely, let’s just say it hasn’t worked one bit. Not only is he not producing offensively, but he’s also horrendous defensively. Something that has made him an overall unproductive player. At least in Jackie Bradley Jr.’s case, he provides production in the field. Nunez doesn’t even do that. So it’s either Pedey coming back, or someone new is just going to have to replace him. Brock Holt could certainly be the one who takes up second base the rest of the way.

The next position which needs an upgrade is center field. Jackie Bradley Jr., as aforementioned, can field well. He has a cannon for an arm and can catch almost any ball hit in his area. With that said, his problem is at the plate, where he’s hitting under .200 on the season. That won’t fly.

Lastly, the bullpen. Overall, the bullpen ERA may not be so bad. But the problem is the late innings. If I asked whoever trusts Heath Hembree or Matt Barnes late in a game and you raise your hand, I’m sorry, but I’ll tell you you’re crazy. Those two have continued to show that they are anything but trustworthy, especially against good teams. Could you trust those two or really anybody in the bullpen besides Kimbrel and Joe Kelly, who have even had their own share of problems at times, late in a game against the Yankees? Or Astros?

Possible Trades Options for the Red Sox

Right now, Brad Hand has been swirling in the rumor mill. Possibly Zach Britton, too. The only problem with him is he is on a division rival. That always makes things more complicated. And as far as Brad Hand goes, the asking price for him is reportedly a young player, such as Rafael Devers. If they stay stubborn on that, I say forget it. There are plenty of other fish in the sea. Not that they should stop negotiating, though. Raisel Iglesias, who’s riding a 2.37 ERA over in Cincinnati, is someone else who could be another option.

As for Jackie Bradley Jr.’s replacement, they’ll have to keep looking. If he can’t start producing, he’s not going to be able to last much longer.

Nonetheless, the trade deadline is still over a month away. Still many more rumors to come. At the end of the day, all we know is that Dave Dombrowski will be busy doing whatever he can to help this team prevail against powerhouse New York Yankees.