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Three Keys to Winning the World Series

The Sox are just four wins away, and we now know the final opponent is the Los Angeles Dodgers. Boston has played near perfect baseball throughout the postseason and are positioned to win the franchise’s ninth World Series championship. With the Dodgers returning to the Fall Classic for the second straight year, they are no easy foe. Many small factors can provide a big swing in this series, and there is a few the Sox ought to hope go their way to help capture another World Series.

The Bullpen:

So far in October, the bullpen has been tremendous. Most baseball fans had written off the bullpen, saying that there wasn’t any reliable options to bridge to Kimbrel. Rather the opposite has been the case, the bridge of Matt Barnes, Ryan Brasier and Joe Kelly has been formidable. It has been Kimbrel who’s had the issues. However, Craig Kimbrel seemed to find his form in game five, as he closed the Astros out fairly easily, with some of his throwback stuff. If the middle inning guys can continue to pull their weight, it would make this series a lot easier on the stress levels of Sox Nation.

The Manager:

Everyone in Boston and their grandma loves Dodgers manager/Red Sox hero Dave Roberts. However, the man that matters most this series, is Alex Cora. Through the two beatdowns the Sox have delivered in New York and in Houston, their manager has continued to look genius. Every decision has been genius when deciding between Brock Holt or Ian Kinsler, or Eduardo Nunez or Rafael Devers. Or even behind the plate, between Sandy Leon and Christian Vazquez. Every decision has been well calculated and every decision has paid off. If Cora continues to pull strings like this, and when managing his bullpen, the Sox are going to be damn near unstoppable.

The Game 2 Starter:

Just like I predicted, David Price showed up in his second start of the ALCS and he dealt. He shook the monkey off his back and has turned his postseason narrative right around. To solidify this newfound reputation and to grow his legacy more, the start in game two of the World Series is crucial. Whether Chris Sale can overcome his “stomach issues” and pitch well in game one or not, game two will be huge. Either Sale pitches well, and it’s on Price to get the series to the west coast with the Sox up 2-0. Or Sale struggles, and then David Price is pitching to save the Sox season from going to L.A. down 0-2. Whichever way it pans out, the start from Price will be a turning point in this series.

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Three Takeaways: Raptors 113, Celtics 101

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The Boston Celtics first road game of the season concluded in a disappointing 113-101 loss to the Toronto Raptors. Boston was losing 101-99 with 2:30 left in the fourth quarter, though the game ended as the Raptors went on a 12-2 run. Toronto and Boston will face-off three more times during the regular season.

Here are three takeaways from the Celtics second game of the season.

Via MLG Highlights Youtube

Celtics Second Half Woes

The first half was competitive, ending 53-49 in Boston’s favor. The second half was a different story. Toronto scored 64 points on 56% shooting and grabbed 32 of their total 49 rebounds. Boston kept it competitive down the stretch, though Toronto pulled away as they went on a 10-0 run with 2:30 left in fourth quarter.

Missed Layups

Missed layups and second chance opportunities played a major part in the outcome of tonight’s game. The Celtics missed twelve shots from within the restricted area and six others from inside the paint. Boston cannot afford to miss “high percentage” shots if they want to win close games.

Via Sports Chat Place

Ball Movement

Despite the loss, the Celtics offense shows promise due to their selflessness and Brad Stevens’ play design. All five starters took double-digit shot attempts and scored in double figures. Though the Celtics shot just 40 percent, their ball movement and offensive scheme are encouraging. Even with so many mouths to feed, Stevens looks able to keep everyone happy.

Boston’s next game will be in New York against the Knicks on Saturday, October 20 at 7:30 PM ET.

Terry Rozier Situation Breakdown

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Trade rumors continue to surround Terry Rozier. The 24-year-old will become a restricted free agent come the end of the season. This means Rozier can agree to an offer sheet with any team, but the Celtics can retain him by matching the terms.

Unfortunately, there are two major issues complicating the situation.

Salary Cap

The Celtics are already over both the salary cap and luxury tax threshold. Signing Rozier would push Boston further over the threshold, restricting the Celtics from signing any outside players this offseason, or in the near future.

This forces Boston to replace any impending free agents, like Marcus Morris, with veteran minimum players.

Playing Time

Terry Rozier #12 of the Boston Celtics celebrates with Marcus Smart #36 after the 112-111 victory over the Indiana Pacers. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

It is well documented that Boston has a log jam in their backcourt. Kyrie Irving is the clear-cut starter, while Rozier and Marcus Smart are featured off the bench. Although this is a great scenario for the championship contending Celtics, it is a less advantageous spot for Rozier.

During Irving’s absence in 2017-18, Rozier started 19 playoff games, averaging 16.5 points, 5.7 assists, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.3 steals in 36.6 minutes. His six 20-point games and one double-double helped the Celtics reach game seven of the Eastern Conference Finals.

With the Phoenix Suns reportedly interested in acquiring the point-guard, it is clear he is viewed as starting caliber in the NBA.

The Celtics options regarding Rozier’s future are as follows:

Contract Extension (Not Currently Viable)

The October 15th contract extension deadline has passed, meaning Rozier and the Celtics were unable to agree on an extension. “Scary Terry” reportedly rejected a $12 million offer from the Celtics. If the two parties are to come to a contract agreement, it will be during the free agency period.

Match Offer Sheet

One option for the Celtics will be to match the terms of another team’s offer sheet. This means that if the Phoenix Suns were to offer Rozier a $20 million contract, the Celtics would have two days to either match it or refuse. If the Celtics were to refuse, there would be no required compensation for Phoenix, and Rozier would walk. If Boston were to match the offer, their salary situation would become a farce, as Boston would be forced to pay a hefty luxury tax.

Assuming Irving signs with Boston for the max, and Al Horford accepts his player option, the Celtics will have three players making more than $30 million each next season. Including Marcus Smart’s new four-year contract and Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown’s team options, the Celtics will have about $120 million tied up in just six players. If the Celtics match an offer sheet for Rozier, they will be forced to pay significantly.

Trade

Terry Rozier has drawn interest from the Phoenix Suns according to reports. (Photo from ClutchPoints.com)

Another option for Boston is to trade. The point guard and his $3 million contract have drawn interest from the Phoenix Suns, who allegedly made the Celtics an offer before signing free agent Jamal Crawford to a one-year veteran minimum contract.

If the Celtics do not think they can retain Rozier, the best decision would be to trade him before the February 7th trade deadline. For Boston, trading means avoiding a hefty luxury tax next season, at the cost of losing a sixth man of the year candidate. If the Celtics move Rozier, another guard will receive significant minutes. Candidates include Marcus Smart (who already receives significant minutes), Brad Wanamaker, or a new acquisition.

Celtics are in the driver’s seat

“Scary Terry’s” future in Boston is uncertain, although the Celtics are still in control. If they are willing to pay the luxury tax, Boston will be able to sign or retain Rozier. Alternatively, they can trade Rozier in order to accumulate future assets.

Ultimately, the Celtics are trying to build a dynasty, so going over the luxury tax may be worth the risk.

Game preview: Boston Bruins vs Edmonton Oilers

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The Boston Bruins arrive in Edmonton after losing last night to the Calgary Flames, snapping a four game winning streak. Tonight marks the first home game for the Oilers as they play at the Rogers Place. Edmonton is coming off an exciting comeback win when they defeated the Winnipeg Jets 5-4 this past Tuesday. Oilers captain Connor McDavid set an NHL record as he registered a point in the Oilers nine goals so far this season.

This past Tuesday, he was instrumental in the OT win over the Jets. However, McDavid will be tasked to shut down one of the NHL’s top lines-the BMP line.

(Photo Credits: Matt Stone/ Boston Herald)

The Oilers are looking for a win against the B’s after their 4-1 loss to Boston on October 11^th. They have won their last two games as they’re coming off a three-game road trip in the US. McDavid leads the team with nine points with Ryan Nugent-Hopkins not far behind with six points.

(Photo Credits: NHL.com)

The Boston Bruins top first line has been on fire, producing and leading the team in assist and goals. So far, the BMP line has netted 15 of the 24 goals Boston has posted. Patrice Bergeron, who is the current NHL First Star of the Week, leads the line with six goals and seven assists. Brad Marchand has two goals and nine assist while David Pastrnak has seven goals with three assists.

So far in 17 games against Edmonton, all three players from the top line have a total of five goals and seven assists.

(Photo Credits: AP Photo)

Coach Bruce Cassidy has also been looking towards other lines to drive more to the net as lack of production from the rest of the team has been a bit concerning. After last night’s game, one of the remaining issues is the amount of turnovers happening on the ice. Defensive issue and puck giveaway seems to be a problem that has plagued the team.

“We now we have a line that’s going to deliver that every night. We went home and we did get some of that much better balance. You hope that continues. It didn’t tonight”-Coach Bruce Cassidy

Tonight, back-up goalie Jaroslav Halak will be in net tonight as he posted a win against the Oilers last week. Halak had a 25-save effort previously against Edmonton. Halak has turned 73 of 76 shots. Tuukka Rask made 23 saves last night against Calgary and is 0-3-1 against his last five starts against Edmonton. Since his last four games played, his record is 2-2-0 with a .875 save percentage.

PUCK DROP: Tonight at 9:00pm EST.

WHERE TO WATCH: NESN, 98.5 RADIO

What to Do with Craig Kimbrel

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Another night; another heart attack brought on by Red Sox closer Craig Kimbrel, but another win. This has become commonplace in close Red Sox victories this postseason, as Kimbrel has been a disaster on the mound, but has ultimately finished out each game successfully; somehow.

Kimbrel appears to be a disaster waiting to happen, so what should the Red Sox do with him moving forward?

Pitch Him In Lower Leverage Situation

I think Kimbrel needs to be taken out of the closer role, at least temporarily. He absolutely cannot be trusted right now. Even if the next game is close, I would use other pitchers in the late innings.

If there is an opportunity in the near future to pitch Kimbrel in a game that isn’t very close, the Red Sox should take it. I’m not sure if nerves are playing a factor, they likely are, but Kimbrel can barely find the strike zone.

Maybe working in a lower leverage spot Kimbrel can find the strike zone. Maybe he won’t be able to, but you can’t have a guy throwing ball after ball trying to close out games.

There have been multiple times this postseason where Kimbrel has been brought on to protect a three-run lead and hasn’t thrown strikes. In that situation, the only goal is to throw strikes; a home run can’t beat you, throw the ball over the plate and make them work for it. Kimbrel has been giving the opposition baserunners without much fight.

Kimbrel’s Struggles

Craig Kimbrel has pitched in four games this postseason and allowed the opposition to score in all four. Just let that sink in for a moment.

His ERA is standing at 8.44 after last night and he has put 13 baserunners on in only 5.1 innings pitched. 13! Kimbrel has walked five batters and hit two as he struggles to locate his pitches. On numerous occasions he has yanked his fastball, missing so far outside the catcher is left reaching as far as he can to corral it. Other times, his breaking ball is a wild pitch waiting to happen. He has been playing with fire and somehow has yet to be fully burned. It’s only a matter of time if something is not done.

In game four of the ALDS, pitching with a three run lead, Kimbrel walked two batters and hit another. He threw 28 pitches to get three outs, less than half of them going for strikes. He came about as close to blowing that game as one could without actually blowing it.

His next outing he gave up back-to-back two out hits before a fly ball from Alex Bregman nearly tied the game.

Last night was another heart attack, walking three batters and hitting another. He faced 11 batters to close out the three run lead. Kimbrel has now thrown a whopping 101 pitches in his four postseason appearances. And then there is this:

Craig Kimbrel's last clean postseason outing in a game his team was winning when he entered was 8 years ago!

Game 2 of the 2010 NLDS. Yeah, really.

— Jayson Stark (@jaysonst) October 15, 2018

Other Options

Despite everyone being worried about the Red Sox bullpen entering the postseason, Kimbrel has been the problem. Others have pitched very well, excluding Brandon Workman. Workman shouldn’t pitch unless the game is a blowout, he’s the only guy that’s been worse than Kimbrel.

Ryan Brasier struggled in his first postseason appearance but did not allow a run. He seemed to have cleared his postseason jitters with that performance because he has been nails since. Brasier is up to seven scoreless innings over seven appearances.

Matt Barnes has also come up big, netting a big strike out looking to end the seventh last night. Barnes has now thrown 5.2 shutout innings over six appearances this postseason. These are currently the Sox two most trustworthy relievers, like it or not. At least for now, they should be getting the highest leverage spots.

In addition to them, others are also performing well. Heath Hembree has thrown 3.2 shutout innings, albeit not in any tight spots. Joe Kelly has stepped up his game, showing the good side of his pitching. Kelly has allowed one run over 5.1 innings without issuing a walk. The strike throwing is refreshing.

Ideally Kimbrel is the ninth inning guy; he’s been doing it a long time and it helps set up the bullpen better. But for the moment, he can not be trusted with the way he is throwing, and the Red Sox need to try someone else.

Three Takeaways: Celtics 105, 76ers 87

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Boston Celtics basketball is back.

The first game of the regular season for the Boston Celtics did not disappoint. Both teams got off to a slow start, but Boston was able to pull away heading into the fourth quarter and didn’t look back. By the end of the game, the entire team was firing on all cylinders.

Here’s the good, the bad, and the ugly from game 1 of 82.

Ben Simmons of the Philadelphia 76ers handles the ball against Kyrie Irving of the Boston Celtics during a game on October 16 2018 at TD Garden in...

Via Getty

1. Kyrie Irving off to a slow start

Though the Celtics pulled off the win, Kyrie’s absence on the offensive end was notable. In the first half, Irving didn’t score a single point, going 0-8 from the field. He finished going just 2-14 from the field for 7 points. That included one two, one three, and two free throws. Fortunately, the rest of the team was able to pick up the slack on the offensive end. Hopefully, Kyrie can get his scoring swagger back in time for Friday’s tilt.

However, he did finish with seven assists, and was also a +9 plus/minus, so his performance wasn’t poor. It’s unlikely this scoring relapse will carry over into the next games.

2. Jayson Tatum leads the charge

While Kyrie struggled from the field, Jayson Tatum was the leader on the offensive end of the court. He finished with a game-high 23 points on 9-17 shooting from the field. He also looked at times to be the commander of the court, often times serving as the primary ball-handler.

Tatum had a number of sweet pull-ups, and a beautiful drive and dunk, as well. Near the end of the game, he also took Joel Embiid to school on a free throw line jumper. The NBA sophomore looked confident on the court, and it showed in the box score.

Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics dunks the ball against the Philadelphia 76ers on October 16 2018 at the TD Garden in Boston Massachusetts NOTE TO...

Via Getty

3. Defense looks as strong as ever

The staple of the Boston Celtics looks to be the same as ever: defense. Boston was able to hold Philly to just 87 points in the opener. They also forced 16 turnovers, including 10 in the first half alone. Leading the defensive effort was Al Horford, who had 5 blocks and affected multiple other shots at the rim.

It’s obvious that the defense won’t be an issue this season, as if that were ever a question.

Bonus: Gordon Hayward!

The forward made his Celtic debut at the TD Garden, playing 24 minutes and scoring 10 points. While it wasn’t the greatest performance, it was most certainly encouraging to see him back on the court scoring buckets.

Gordon Hayward high fives Jaylen Brown of the Boston Celtics during a game against ethics's Philadelphia 76ers at TD Garden on October 16 2018 in...

Via Getty

An emphatic performance in the season opener was surely an awesome sight for Boston Celtics fans. They’ll look to keep the momentum going on Friday against the Toronto Raptors in Canada.

Why David Price Has Earned Another Start

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Much has been made over the years, into this postseason, about David Price. It goes without saying that he hasn’t been Sandy Koufax or Madison Bumgarner in the playoffs. However, there were many elements of Sunday night’s start that provide us with signs that Price has turned a corner. For the first time in his career, his team won a game that he started. It goes deeper than that, from pitching out of jams to limiting damage.

Game Two:

Last night, David Price wasn’t perfect, but he was good enough. The walks were a little concerning, but the overall perseverance of Price was enough to earn him another start in a potential game six. The line isn’t gorgeous, four runs on four walks and five hits, but it did the trick. The bullpen did its job like I tried to tell you all before. The Sox won, which is obviously the priority, and Price showed progress in his ability to pitch in October.

Looking at the four runs, they came on two big hits. One came in the second off the bat of George Springer, and another in the third from Marwin Gonzalez. Both were strikes, yes, but neither were bad pitches by any means. Springer was able to swing inside out and just tuck one over Steve Pearce‘s head. With two outs in the inning, both runners were able to score easily, but that was an at-bat that easily could’ve gone Price’s way. When it comes to the Gonzalez home run, again, it wasn’t a bad pitch at all. In fact, the entire at-bat was well calculated and executed. The Astros slugger was just able to get his hands around on a tough pitch up and in and he drove it. Neither pitch that was costing of runs was a bad pitch, just a better swing.

Looking Ahead to Price in Game 6:

So, with everything considered, I believe Price actually pitched very well. If it were anybody else besides Gonzalez that came to the plate in the fifth, he would’ve stayed in the game. In all likelihood, he would’ve been in position for his first career postseason win as a starter. Alex Cora made the right decision matchup-wise, but David’s stuff was good enough for him to pitch another inning.

Going forward, Price deserves another start and he will deliver in the said start. He was very reliant on his fastball and seemed to shy away from the changeup. If he can gain some traction when it comes to throwing that changeup, he could really stifle this gritty Astros lineup. Barring a three-game sweep of the games in Houston, Price will start the biggest game of his career, a game six at Fenway Park in an elimination game. David Price has earned it, and he will come through again for this team.

Anthony Davis to Celtics is Inevitable

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The future of Anthony Davis is uncertain. He is currently under contract with the New Orleans Pelicans through the 2019-20 season with a player option for 2020-21. In six seasons with New Orleans, Davis has made two playoff appearances compared to the Celtics’ five.

With the departure of DeMarcus Cousins, Davis is not expected to exercise his player option. Rather, he will be traded prior to the 2019-20 trade deadline or will enter free agency prior to 2020-21.

Unfortunately due to stipulations around the “Rose Rule”, trading for Davis may be difficult.

That said, let’s look at why Anthony Davis to the Boston Celtics is inevitable.

Celtics as a Trade Partner

The Celtics have more assets than they can handle. General manager and president of basketball operations, Danny Ainge, has been compiling resources since 2013. Boston currently owns four first-round picks in the 2019 draft: Boston’s own, Sacramento’s (Top 1 protected), Memphis’ (protected 1-8 in ’19; 1-6 in ’20 and unprotected in ’21) and the Clippers (protected Top 14 in ’19 and ’20). If Ainge trades for Davis, a combination of picks will surely be exchanged.

Embed from Getty Images

Due to Davis’ contract, players must also be traded to ensure teams are salary cap compliant. This means that Al Horford ($29M), Gordon Hayward ($20M), or Marcus Smart ($11M) must be included in the deal. Other trade chips for Boston include Terry Rozier, who is a restricted free agent at seasons end, and Jaylen Brown, who has a club option for 2019-20.

The Celtics must be favorited to land Davis if New Orleans is to trade the superstar.

Boston as a Free Agent Destination

If Davis wants to win an NBA Championship, then Boston will be his destination.

He will likely enter free agency prior to the 2020-21 season. Boston will have ample money to sign Davis, as Al Horford and Marcus Morris will be off-the-books. Joining the Celtics would mean many things for the former first overall draft pick.

Smiling Jayson Tatum, right, and Jaylen Brown, seem to feel right at home during Celtics mini-camp, Friday, June 30, 2017, in Waltham. (Herald Photo by Jim Michaud)

Led by head coach Brad Stevens, the Celtics posses a young core destined for multiple deep playoff runs. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown look as promising of a duo as Tracy McGrady and Vince Carter. Them, along with Kyrie Irving and Gordon Hayward, can allow Davis to reduce his field goal attempts, making him a more efficient scorer and willing passer.

According to Bovada Official, on September 28, 2018, the Lakers were favorites to land Davis in free agency. Though, by joining the Celtics, Davis will become the top title contender in his conference. Something he cannot do in the West while the Golden State Warriors dynasty remains in-tact.

Expect to see Davis in Celtic green soon.

Jason McCourty Emerging As One Of New England’s top Defenders

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J-Mac Was No Lock To Even Make This Team

When Jason McCourty came to New England from Cleveland, Belichick brought him in to see what he had left. After OTA’s and the Preseason, McCourty was no lock to make this team, and he knew it. He admitted it after Thursday’s Win. Halfway through camp, Belichick wanted to see what he could do at safety. Most would say that after the last preseason game things weren’t looking great for the veteran.

Jason McCourty Playing great so far

Making The Most Of His Opportunity

Eric Rowe’s injury opened the door for Jason McCourty, from a bubble guy to one of the Patriot’s best defenders. He contributed to the win over the colts in a big way. Andrew Luck targeted McCourty 10 times with J-Mac allowing just 44 yards. Luck had a measly 14.2 rating throwing at the veteran.

McCourty’s been stellar through five games on the field, He’s only allowed 13 receptions on 26 targets, for just 116 yards on the year. His play isn’t going unnoticed either, as Pro Football Focus has him as the 4th ranked cornerback.

The Patriots have young and hungry cornerbacks looking to make a name for themselves. For now, McCourty’s the guy moving forward.

J-Mac Plays Hard And Studies Hard

Jason is intelligent, which is no surprise after watching his twin brother Devin for years. J-Mac can play both cornerback and safety. He put the work in to ensure his spot on the Patriots. His brother Devin started out playing cornerback and was named to the Pro Bowl his first year. After a good season at cornerback, Devin moved to Safety. Sound familiar?

Jason having the opportunity to play alongside his twin has certainly helped him pick up the playbook, and the culture in New England. Coming from the Browns, Jason is now giving passionate pregame speeches to the defense, and he is loving every minute of being a Patriot. His passion and appreciation for winning came out after the win Thursday night. Cameras picked up J-Mac running around the locker room yelling about winning, smiling ear to ear.

Jason McCourty is a big hit with the coaches

Jason McCourty is just happy playing for New England

Coming from an organization that went winless last year, Jason said he doesn’t care what position he plays. The scene in the locker room Thursday night said it all. “I’ve done a lot of losing, I like this!” Now he’s on a team that will use him to the best of his abilities, and the coaching staff loves him.

McCourty has revived his career this season. hH’s not just one of the best defenders on the Patriots, he’s a top 5 cornerback in the NFL. Based on his attitude and work ethic, I don’t see why his play should slow down anytime soon. Cornerback or Safety it doesn’t matter to Jason. More importantly, the coaching staff has confidence in him. He will continue to learn to be even more versatile. A move that was questioned in the offseason is paying off for the team and for Jason McCourty.

Jerome Allen Facing Suspension

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Allen Pleads Guilty

Boston Celtics assistant coach Jerome Allen pleaded guilty to accepting an $18,000 bribe in 2014. At the time, Allen was the head coach at the University of Pennsylvania. In six seasons, Allen lead the Quakers to a 65-104 record.

Allen stated he accepted the bribe from a parent of a prospective student “for the purpose of using my position as coach to help his son get admitted to the school as a ‘listed’ recruit”.

(Photo via Philly.com)

“I failed on many levels,” said Allen in a statement. “Primarily, I had a failure of character. I did not live up to the high standards I set for myself, or were expected of me in the position that I held.

“I am heartbroken that my players — current and former — will know that I broke the law. But, I do hope that some good may come out of this. I wish to model to my young players how one accepts responsibility for wrongdoing, including the consequences that come from unlawful behavior.”

Allen will remain on the Celtics coaching staff, but will likely face a suspension according to multiple reports. Boston’s other assistants include Jamie Young, Jay Larranaga, Micah Shrewsberry and Scott Morrison.