(Not So) Free Agency - The SFB Podcast (8/31/2010).....

The NBA got much exposure this off season with the free agent movement this "Summer of LeBron". Well it seems the league owners are not fans of the player movement (Didn't these same owners offer these contracts?) and the "trade me" talk from other players. A NY Times story talks about greater financial punishment for players leaving their current teams. That will easily be a new CBA talking point. Can the league really try to restrict movement even more? I'll take a quick look at this new development.

Plus, the NFL preseason ends Thursday night, so I'll look around the NFL camps, including an expensive mistake for the Cincinnati Bengals and see what is happening around Major League Baseball. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: August 31, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Let's Play Two (more) - The SFB Podcast (8/27/2010).....

When NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell wants something, he usually gets it, and although not a done deal, it sure does look like the NFL will start playing 18 regular season games starting with the 2012 season. Putting aside whether this is good or not for the league, it sure will have an effect on the other sports and television schedules / viewing. I'll take a look at those effects.

Plus, Stephen Strasburg will be needing Tommy John surgery, and while this is bad news, it is not terrible news. Also, Tiger comes back to the pack at The Barclays, Payton Manning doesn't like a new NFL rule, Albert Pujols hits home run number 400 of his career and Pete Rose is giving Roger Clemens advice. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: August 27, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Triple Crown Affair - The SFB Podcast (8/26/2010).....

It has been 73 years since a National League player has won baseball's Triple Crown and with 35 games to go we have two players, the Reds' Joey Votto and the Cardinals' Albert Pujols, with a shot at it and to add to the excitement their teams are battling for the Central Division crown. Sadly though you wouldn't know it unless you are a baseball fan. Will the chase get more play with only twenty games to go, or because it involves Cincinnati and St. Louis and not New York, Los Angeles or Boston, will this get lost until it actually happens at season's end?

Plus, thanks to others the Blue Jays' Jose Bautista is guilty until he proves his innocence, Notre Dame wants to cut commercials from its games and Jim Furyk needs a better alarm clock. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: August 26, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Changing the Rules - The SFB Podcast (8/24/2010).....

The NHL held a "rules camp" where they experimented with some of the rules to make the game better. While none of them were "game changers", I did like some of the ideas that were discussed. I'll take a look at what is being thought about to make hockey even better for players and the fans.

Plus, Tiger and Elin are now officially divorced and there is some rumbling around golf that Tiger Woods might dismiss Steve Williams from being his caddie. If it is true, why do this now and by doing it now is Tiger saying Williams is part of the reason for his poor play or maybe he wants a clean slate? Also it was another fun time watching the Jets on "Hard Knocks" and more from the NFL and MLB. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: August 24, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Clemens vs. Congress - The SFB Podcast (8/22/2010).....

Roger Clemens threw many "purpose pitches" during his career, but on Wednesday afternoon the Federal Government threw one at Clemens when he was indicted on charges of lying to Congress in 2008. I'll look at the baseball and public sides of this newest black eye for baseball.

Plus it has been an eventful week of other sports news with Brett Favre returning to the Vikings with the help of some friends, Lou Piniella's immediate retirement, Kyle Busch pulling off a NASCAR "first" and don't wear a Gators cap to a Razorback press conference. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: August 22, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Talking Baseball - The SFB Podcast (8/19/2010).....

Paul Lebowitz joins me on the podcast to discuss the latest baseball news of the day. Only a little over 6 weeks left in the season and almost everything is still up for grabs in the divisional and wildcard races. Among the items we'll cover will be K-Rod's problems, Chipper Jones' latest injury, the fantastic job Dusty Baker is doing with the Reds, the Rangers' ownership giving their fans a ballpark discount and what to look for in the next two weeks as August wraps up. Enjoy.

Paul on Twitter
Paul's website

The SportsFan Buzz: August 19, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Hard Knocked - The SFB Podcast (8/17/2010).....

Finally watched the first episode of this year's HBO series Hard Knocks and so far it's sure showing differently than the prior years, especially after last year with the Cincinnati Bengals. Rex Ryan sure is the star of this team and it was put front stage during the first show. I'll give my impressions of the Jets TV time, plus discuss what rules hockey is looking at changing, and how the Texas Rangers new ownership is showing fans they are different than prior ownership. Also, we may see less Peyton Manning next spring. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: August 17, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Bogey on Golf - The SFB Podcast (8/16/2010).....

What a way to end a major golf championship. Dustin Johnson's "penalty" costs him two shots and a chance at the PGA Championship. While the ruling was correct, the whole situation brings up many questions and observations about golf rules, what the players should know and if anyone should have "helped" Johnson. Lost in all this was the actual winner, Martin Kaymer. I'll look at this weekend's PGA, plus the happenings around baseball, including Twins' pitcher Kevin Slowey leaving a game with a no-hitter in place, and the pre-season football action. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: August 16, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Reporting Trouble - The SFB Podcast (8/14/2010).....

So Tiger Woods was in the golf news again this week, but it had nothing to do with his words or actions. Instead it was the "he said / he said", finger in the chest confrontation between US Ryder Cup Captain Corey Pavin and Golf Channel reporter Jim Gray about Tiger's spot on this year's US Ryder Cup team. Who ever thought a golf news conference could turn into the WWE? Plus I'll take a look at the latest news from the other major sports and why more girls will probably watch the NFL Kickoff event. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: August 14, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Midnight Madden - The SportsFan Buzz (8/10/2010).....

At 12:01am the latest version of Madden Football was released, and like I have done the past ten years or so, I was out being one of the first to get it in my hands. Well, I put the controller down long enough to catch up with Mike about what is going on around the sports world. Some of what we talk about is Ilya Kovalchuk's voided contract being upheld, Tiger Woods place on the Ryder Cup, the Miami Heat's "buzz" and some MLB  & NFL news. Enjoy.

Mike on Twitter

The SportsFan Buzz: August 10, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Football is Back - The SFB Podcast (8/9/2010).....

People must really miss their football as the Bengals / Cowboys HOF game beat Red Sox / Yankees in the ratings. Also this weekend, Tiger Woods finished next to last at Firestone, Jeff Van Gundy really likes the Miami Heat, Isiah Thomas is back with the Knicks and Tim Tebow got a haircut. Plus baseball almost has another no-hitter thrown. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: August 9, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Finally to 600 - The SFB Podcast (8/4/2010).....

Alex Rodriguez finally hit home run #600, but like that tree in the forest, it seems like nobody heard it. Well now that Rodriguez's pursuit of 600 is done, we can concentrate on the important news, like Brett Favre (kidding). Meanwhile, by the end of the day, the Texas Rangers should have their ownership questions answered, with either Nolan Ryan or Mark Cuban being the new face of that ownership. Plus, Shaquille O'Neal joins the Celtics, the NBA announces some of their marquee regular season games and Mike Modano joins the Red Wings. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: August 4, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Talking Baseball - The SFB Podcast (8/3/2010).....

The baseball trade deadline (without waivers) passed on Saturday and while there were no "blockbusters", there was movement by teams to solidify their clubs. Cliff Lee, Roy Oswalt and Lance Berkman switching clubs were the highlights of the trades. Paul Lebowitz joins me to discuss the player moves and see who really did help their ballclubs for the stretch run and playoffs. Enjoy.

Paul on Twitter
Paul's website

The SportsFan Buzz: August 3, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Going Camping - The SFB Podcast (8/2/2010).....

NFL training camps are opening around the country and while most people liked camp as a kid, some players are staying away from these camps. Not because they don't like the food, sharing a room, or singing camp songs, but because they want new contracts and the camp counselors (owners) aren't offering them on the activity list. I'll take a quick look around the NFL camps to see what happened over the weekend and also discuss a few pieces of NBA and NHL news. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: August 2, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Elimination Process - The SFB Podcast (7/28/2010).....

NASCAR's Brian France conducted a Q&A with the racing press on Sunday and one possible idea that was floated out was some sort of elimination process during the "Chase for the Cup". Would that bring more excitment and fans to the NASCAR playoff and how would it work? I'll throw out some ideas on what it could possibly entail. Plus Stephen Strasburg is scratched from his start because of stiffness, Tim Tebow wears underwear and Diego Maradona won't be coaching Argentina anymore. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: July 28, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

In a haze - The SFB Podcast (7/27/2010).....

Cowboys' rookie, Dez Bryant, decided he didn't want to be part of the NFL "ritual" of being hazed by the veterans (even if it was only carrying pads) and just wants to concentrate on football. While that is great to see/hear from the rookie, dissing the veterans may not have been so great. I'll look at the incident and whether hazing still should be allowed by NFL players anymore. Plus it's Alex Rodriguez's 35th birthday. Is becoming the all-time home run king still a "lock"? Also, Andre Dawson has some tough words for today's players, one more no-hitter in the majors and another "celebration" injury. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: July 27, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Agents on Campus - The SFB Podcast (7/24/2010).....

After the Reggie Bush mess at USC, now we have the NCAA checking on at least 5 different schools to check if agents are paying players or taking them on trips. What can schools do to avoid these problems? Does the NFL Players Association need to help keep these agents in line? Plus the NFL and players are starting to talk about a new CBA and talk about a non-US Super Bowl and team are starting up again. Ugh! Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: July 24, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Talking Baseball - The SFB Podcast (7/23/2010).....

Paul Lebowitz joins the podcast to talk about what is going on around the Major Leagues. The trade deadline is next Saturday and it could get interesting, especially if the Phillies deal for starting pitching after dealing away Cliff Lee last winter. Paul and I will discuss the possible trades, take a look at the standings and talk about what to look for in the upcoming weeks around the majors. Enjoy.

Paul on Twitter
Paul's website

The SportsFan Buzz: July 23, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Fallout from "The Decision" - The SFB Podcast (7/19/2010).....

It has been about 10 days since LeBron James told the sports world that he would be joining the Miami Heat and there has been many outside of opinions about James' choice. Now that the dust has settled, let's see what really happened with James choosing to join Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh  in Miami. Does it really hurt James to play with another great player and not try and "go it alone"? Also The British Open is was played at St. Andrews and the weather won, plus Sam Bradford and the Rams start contract talks. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: July 19, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Goodbye George - The SFB Podcast (7/14/2010).....

A sad few days for Yankee fans with the passing of long-time PA announcer, Bob Sheppard, and then the loss of "The Boss, George Steinbrenner. A look back at George's reign as Yankee owner, plus the National League actually won the All-Star Game, Also, the NCAA decides about their new "1st round" tournament games, Pete Carrol is still talking about USC sanctions and Lane Kiffin asks Tennessee to come out and play. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: July 14, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

LeBron Makes His Decision - The SFB Podcast (7/8/2010).....

The wait is finally over (I hear it's the hardest part) and LeBron will be joining friends Dwyane Wade & Chris Bosh in Miami and the party has already started. Meanwhile, the city of Cleveland is devestated. Lots of negative talk about the "show" and the announcing platform, but I will bet ESPN does huge numbers. Now that the NBA landscape has been pretty much set for the 2010 season, Mike joins me to discuss LeBron's choice, the circus surrounding this year's free agent class and what might happen next. Enjoy.

After the show was recorded, Cleveland's ownership responded to LeBron moving to Miami. The reaction from Cleveland's owner was a bit over the top. Here is his letter to Cavalier fans and an interview claiming LeBron quit on the team during the playoffs. Ouch.

Mike on Twitter

The SportsFan Buzz: July 8, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

LeBron = Must See TV? - The SFB Podcast (7/7/2010).....

So LeBron James will be announcing his free agent destination on an ESPN show tomorrow night at 9pm. Guess the "E" really does stand for "entertainment". Now we also have news that Chris Bosh & Dwyane Wade will be teaming up in Miami. An interesting last 18 hours that will get even better once LeBron announces his intentions. Mike joins me to go over those and other NBA Free Agent happenings. Enjoy.

Mike on Twitter

The SportsFan Buzz: July 7, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

NBA Free Agent Dominos - The SFB Podcast (7/6/2010).....

First big name NBA free agent to move to a new team is Amare Stoudemire. Well, that's a bit of a letdown and also an inflated contract for an overrated player. Does Amare's signing sway LeBron to join him in New York? Mike joins me to discuss this "free agent frenzy", the wonderful World Cup soccer, baseball's All-Star Game "snubs", and the loss of hockey tough guy, Bob Probert. Enjoy.

***EDIT*** When discussing the NHL free agent movement, we mentioned that Dan Hamhuis and Paul Martin signed with Pittsburgh. Hamhuis actually signed with Vancouver, while Zbynek Michalek joined Martin in signing with the Penguins.

Mike on Twitter

The SportsFan Buzz: July 6, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

This & That - The SFB Podcast (7/3/2010).....

Before taking time off this Fourth of July weekend, a quick look around at a bunch of different sport stories catching my eye the past few days. Including a fantastic finish to a World Cup game, Bobby Bonilla's nice payday and more trouble for the Chargers' Vincent Jackson. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: July 3, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Free Agent Frenzy - The SFB Podcast (7/2/2010).....

If you didn't hear there are a couple of big name NBA players that becaome free agents at midnight on July 1st. Could this have taken up more airtime / written space over the past week or so? I'll take a look at what I think might happen and what I think would be a NBA dream scenario. Also, a look a Phil Jackson's decision to coach one more year and an interesting take from Coach John Calipari about what his main job entails and would Kentucky fans agree. Also, the World Cup quarterfinals begin and the soccer just keeps getting better. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: July 2, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

"Missed Opportunities" - The SFB Podcast (6/29/2010).....

So, when did US Soccer become like our other major sports and only look at results? Isn't US Soccer still in the "get better each time" stage? Seems like the US Soccer Federation President, Sunil Gulati, isn't sure about current coach Bob Bradley, because the team had a "missed opportunity" and "failed to meet expectations" according to Mr. Gulati. Really? I'm not "Mr. Futbal", but I think it would be a mistake to not give Bradley at least another four years through the next World Cup in 2014.

I'll give my thoughts about that news coming out of the US Soccer offices and other World Cup stories from the past few days, including the horrific referee calls so far this tournament. Plus our friend, Paul Lebowitz, gets mentioned by the Diamondback announcers, and a happy 50th birthday (one day late) to John Elway and a look at what "might have been" if he remained a Colt. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: June 29, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Soccer Fever - The SFB Podcast (6/26/2010)....

What I thought was going to be a quiet few days in the sports, ended up being quite the opposite. A three day Wimbledon match, an epic late goal to the US at the World Cup, another no-hitter in the majors, and the Stanley Cup champs get a makeover. Mike joins me to cover those topics plus a few others, including another July 1st free agent getting some "buzz".  Enjoy.

Mike on Twitter

The SportsFan Buzz: June 26, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Anyone want that US Open? - The SFB Podcast (6/22/2010).....

The US Open is supposed to be a tough golfing test, but watching all the leaders all go backwards was a bit of a disappointment as we saw the "US Open Sunday Pressure" take its toll on at the top of the leaderboard. Tiger, Ernie and Phil all had chances, but Graeme McDowell stood tall at the end of the day.

I'll look back at the Open, what is happening over in South Africa at the World Cup, and does the interleague baseball schedule seem longer than usual this year or am I just over the novelty? Plus a NFL player gets hurt playing flag football. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: June 22, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Lakers are the Champs - The SFB Podcast (6/18/2010).....

The Los Angeles Lakers are the NBA champions after a grueling Game 7 victory over the Boston Celtics. It was not a great game if you liked scoring, but was what championship games should come down to and that is tough, leave it all on the floor, hard playing. I'll look back at this rivalry series, as well as the US soccer team getting another draw, this time against Slovenia, and the US Open at Pebble Beach. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: June 18, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Talking Baseball - The SFB (6/17/2010).....

Paul Lebowitz joins the podcast to talk about what is going on around the Major Leagues. We still have the Rays playing well, a crazy NL East, and unbelievable pitching still dominating the year. We'll discuss the teams and the events of the past couple of weeks, including the Stephen Strasburg debut and the chant for more replay in baseball. Enjoy.

Paul on Twitter
Paul's website

The SportsFan Buzz: June 17, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

A Laker Layup - The SFB Podcast (6/16/2010).....

It was awfully easy for the Lakers to dispatch of the Celtics in Game 6 and force the finals to a seventh and deciding game. Does the blowout win carry the Lakers forward for Game 7 or can the Celtics pick themselves up after this hard knockdown? I'll look back at Game 6 and forward to Game 7 in this classic NBA rivalry. Plus Tom Izzo stays at MSU and the US Open starts Thursday at Pebble Beach. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: June 16, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Texas saves the Big 12 (for now) - The SFB Podcast (6/15/2010).....

The collapse of the Big 12 was saved by one of their own when Texas decided to stay with the conference, but at what cost to the rest of the conference teams? Plus USC catches a little bit of a break by this news. Group stage World Cup games are taking place and the NBA season could end tonight in Los Angeles. Plus there sure are many unhappy football players early in June and the New York Jets' owner has to back off a prior promise. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: June 15, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Bzzzzz - The SFB Podcast (6/14/2010).....

Guess it makes sense that The SportsFan "Buzz" has no problem with the sound coming from South Africa and the vuvuzelas during the World Cup. The first weekend of the tournament is in the books and besides the "buzz" about the vuvuzelas, the talk is about the USA's 1-1 draw against England in their first World Cup meeting since 1950. Here in the states, the Boston Celtics are one game away from claiming the NBA title, but must win one more game in Los Angeles to do so after their Game 5 win last night in Boston. Kobe Bryant had a monster game for the Lakers, but can't do it all by himself. Plus, some more fallout from USC's troubles. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: June 14, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Blackhawks are Champs - The SFB Podcast (6/11/2010).....

Mike is happy because the Blackhawks are NHL Champions. Not because he roots for Chicago, but because he no longer has to look at the players' beards. There are a ton of sports headlines that could have "lead SportsCenter" this past week and Mike is here to discuss with me in this two part podcast. First we discuss John Wooden, Tom Izzo, the Blackhawks winning the Stanley Cup, USC's troubles and the NCAA conference swaps.  In part two we look at the World Cup, the NFL, the possible new name of the Jets/Giants stadium, and MLB news, including the great debut by Stephen Strasburg. Enjoy.

Mike on Twitter

The SportsFan Buzz: June 11, 2010 - Part A (right click to "save as target)
The SportsFan Buzz: June 11, 2010 - Part B (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Coaching Legend, Better Man - The SFB Podcast (6/10/2010).....

It has been almost a week since John Wooden passed away and the more I read about the man, the more I am amazed at what a wonderful person he was, along with a great basketball coach and teacher. We need more "John Woodens" in sports and society. Then on the other side of the coin we have one of the NCAA's most promident sports universities, the USC Trojans, being punished for rules violations. While at the same time the college conferences are exploding and imploding with teams moving all over the place, and what a surprise, all for the sake of money. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: June 10, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Replay the Replay - The SFB Podcast (6/4/2010).....

Mike Tricarico dislikes NHL playoff beards. Yep, it's out there. Mike joins the podcast to discuss the NBA Finals and LeBron James future place of employment. We also look at the NHL Stanley Cup Finals between the Flyers and Blackhawks, Tiger Woods coaching himself, and Ken Griffey announcing his retirement. Plus we talk about Amarndo Galarraga losing his perfect game and take a look at replay used in sports. Enjoy.

Mike on Twitter

The SportsFan Buzz: June 4, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Almost Perfect - The SFB Podcast (6/3/2010).....

Armando Galarraga was perfect, but in the end he technically wasn't, as umpire Jim Joyce called Jason Donald safe, thus denying Galarraga the 21st perfect game in MLB history and setting off a firestorm of "baseball needs replay" chants from all corners of the sports universe. Also, many are calling for Commissioner Bud Selig to overturn the original safe call. Talk about over-reaction. I'll look at this, preview the Celtics / Lakers NBA Finals and look at the Blackhawks / Flyers series. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: June 3, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Memorial Day Weekend - The SFB Podcast (5/31/2010).....

After these last playoff rounds there is no debate in my mind as to who is currently the best NBA player. Plus much to cover on the holiday weekend as the Lakers finish off the Suns, The Indy 500 race is run, the NHL kicks off the Stanley Cup Finals with an extremely entertaining Game 1, and we have another pitcher throw a perfect game in the Major Leagues. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: May 31, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Celtics in NBA Finals - The SFB Podcast (5/29/2010).....

The Celtics put away the Magic to gain a spot in the NBA Finals and await the Suns / Lakers winner to see where they will travel to start the pursuit of their 18th NBA championship on Thursday night. Meanwhile, Game 5 hero, Ron Artest couldn't keep the good things going and got into a little trouble with his mouth and tardiness. Plus, I correct an error from yesterday's podcast and the NHL outdoor games and look ahead to tonight's Game 1 between the Flyers and Blackhawks. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: May 29, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

NBA Playoffs & Stanley Cup Preview - The SFB Podcast (5/28/2010).....

The NHL Stanley Cup Finals start tomorrow night as the Philadelphia Flyers face the Chicago Blackhawks. It has been a while for both teams since they last sipped from the Cup. Will the Flyers keep this improbable playoff run going and win their first title since 1975 or will the Blackhawks bring the hardware back to Chicago for the first time since 1961?

Plus, what started out as a dull NBA Conference Championship round is now anything but, as both series head to pivital Games 6s after entertaining Game 5s. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: May 28, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Talking Baseball - The SFB Podcast (5/27/2010).....

Paul Lebowitz joins the podcast to discuss what is happening around the Major Leagues. Among the topics we cover is the packed NL East where all five teams are over .500, the Rays hot start in the AL East, the close race thus far in the NL Central, and how the West (both AL & NL) will be won. Also, Roy Oswalt asks for a trade, Ubaldo Jimenez has been great and we wait on Stephen Strasburg to get to the majors. Enjoy.

Paul on Twitter
Paul's website

The SportsFan Buzz: May 27, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Zoned Out - The SFB Podcast (5/26/2010).....

The Phoenix Suns held their home court and beat the Los Angleles Lakers last night to tie up their series at two games a piece. The teams are now down to a "best of three" series, with the Lakers still holding the advantage with two of these games at Staples Center.

The biggest difference in the game was the outstanding play of the Suns' bench as they outscored the Lakers' bench 54-20. Also, the Lakers still seemed to be a little confused against the Suns zone defense, as it forced them into 28 three point shot attempts (against their in season normal number of 20) after trying 30 three pointers in Game 3, and they did not seem to be running their normal offense. Who thought we would be discussing zone defenses being difference makers during the NBA Playoffs?

The thing is, the Lakers are still putting up points, but don't look like themselves in doing so. The bigger problem for Los Angeles is that they are playing awful defense. Giving up 18 offensive rebounds and 54 bench points is a recipe for disaster.

This all means we are set up for an interesting Game 5 on Thursday night. Will the zone work again for a third straight game or will the Lakers finally adjust and get back to their movement offense instead of forcing jump shots? Can the Lakers step up their defense and hit the boards to stop Phoenix's second chance points?

The podcast looks at the Suns/Lakers series, along with tonight's Game 5 between the Celtics and Magic. Also, it is official as Super Bowl 48 will be played in the New York / New Jersey area. Did the NFL make the right choice? Plus other NFL news and a look at the major leagues. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: May 26, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Broad Street Champs - The SFB Podcast (5/25/2010).....

The Philadelphia Flyers took care of the Montreal Canadiens to win the Eastern Conference and now will face the Chicago Blackhawks for the Stanley Cup starting Saturday night in Chicago. Meanwhile in Boston, the Celtics lost their chance to sweep away the Orlando Magic by falling in overtime behind a great game from the Magic's Dwight Howard. Also, the Bulls might be courting Phil Jackson for a return to Chicago and John Fogerty makes the Hall of Fame. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: May 25, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

LOST Weekend - The SFB Podcast (5/24/2010).....

The LOST series finale will be discussed for a long time and for me, that makes for good television. In sports, the NBA & NHL playoffs are in their conference final rounds, but the matchups have left sport fans a bit empty. Interleague baseball started this weekend with top billing going to the two New York teams playing each other, and the NFL loses a Supreme Court case. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: May 24, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Fan of the Comeback - The SFB Podcast (5/21/2010).....

Hockey fans saw something special last Friday night when the Philadelphia Flyers finished their historical comeback against the Boston Bruins after falling behind three games to none to start their playoff series. That has only been done three times in hockey history (The 1942 Maple Leafs and 1975 Islanders are the other two.) and only four times ever in sports history. That fourth one is probably the most famous when the Boston Red Sox defeated their biggest rival, the New York Yankees in 2004.

Well, Mike Tursi is one of the rare sports fans who has been a fan of teams on both sides of the comeback / collapse. He suffered through the Red Sox coming back against his beloved New York Yankees and then six years later watched his Flyers do the "impossible" against their rival Boston Bruins.

Mike joins me to discuss these two playoff series through the eyes of fan on both sides of the ledger, and we look at this year's Stanley Cup playoffs.

The SportsFan Buzz: May 21, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

Mike Tursi on Twitter
Mike's website

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Celtics/Lakers: Like Old Times - The SFB Podcast (5/20/2010).....

The Lakers took care of the Suns again last night and along with the first two games in the Celtics / Magic series seems to have the NBA pointing to another Laker-Celtic championship round. Taking a look at these two teams brings back memories of the great rivalry they had in the 1980s.

Over in the NHL playoffs, the Flyers and Blackhawks have taken 2-0 leads in each their series and seem to have control of each series. What will San Jose and Montreal need to do in order to make these competetive matchups?

Plus, the Hanley Ramirez situation is over, for now, but not before some Hall of Famers took him to task. Also, the NBA draft lottery, Brandon Marshall suprises the Dolphins by needing hip surgery, and Floyd Landis finally admits to taking enhancements when he won the Tour de France, but not before trying to take others down with him.

The SportsFan Buzz: May 20, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

The SportsFan Buzz Podcast (5/18/2010).....

The NBA & NHL Conference Finals are only one game old, but there was plenty of action in these first games. The Lakers and Celtics looked like they want to renew their rivalry, but the Suns and Magic will have something to say about it. Also, the Blackhawks and Sharks looks like a great series, while maybe the Flyers are "destined" after their comeback over the Bruins. Plus, trouble for the Florida Marlins and Seattle is a miserable sports city (so says a Forbes article). Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: May 18, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

The SportsFan Buzz Podcast (5/16/2010).....

It is NHL & NBA Playoff time and once again the NHL is proving it has the best playoffs in all of sports. Mike joins me to discuss those playoffs, plus a Super Bowl in New York, but maybe not the NFL Draft. Also, we check out the baseball season after 6 weeks. Enjoy.

Mike on Twitter

The SportsFan Buzz: May 16, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

The SportsFan Buzz Podcast (5/13/2010).....

The NHL's version of "David" in these 2010 playoffs, the Montreal Canadiens, have beaten their second straight "Goliath" in the defending Stanley Cup Champions Pittsburgh Penguins, one round after beating the President's Trophy winner, Washington Capitals. Can "Le Habs" keep it going all the way to the Stanley Cups Finals? Also, LeBron's time in Cleveland and I defend Tiger Woods from a "quitter" accusation. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: May 13, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

The SportsFan Buzz Podcast (5/11/2010).....

After a little "head clearing" time away, I dive back in and cover the sports topics that headlined the past week. Among the stories is Dallas Braden's week, Tiger Woods' injury, and the NBA & NHL Playoffs. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: May 11, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

April Baseball - The SportsFan Buzz Podcast (4/30/2010).....

Paul Lebowitz joins me to discuss the first month of the 2010 Major League Baseball season. Among our points of discussion are the Braves, Dodger & Red Sox slow starts, while the Mets, Rays & Padres have gotten out of the game quickly, and the massive contract extension that Ryan Howard received. Enjoy.

Paul on Twitter.
Paul's website.

The SportsFan Buzz: April 30, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

Capital Offense.....

Kudos to me for going 4 for 4 in picking the NHL Western Conference Quarterfinals after the Red Wings defeated the Coyotes in Game 7 of their series Tuesday night. I see no reason to change my picks concerning the Western Semifinals, even though some others are joining the Detroit bandwagon, and think we are headed for a Chicago / San Jose conference final.

As for the Eastern Quarterfinals, let's just say my picks will not win any awards, but I'm not sure anyone saw these results coming as the top 3 seeds were knocked out in the first round. The three regular division winners are gone and the defending Stanley Cup Champion Pittsburgh Penguins are now in the position of home ice advantage for the next two rounds.

I picked Pittsburgh to come out of the east and I see no reason to change that pick and they will handle the upset minded Montreal Canadiens. As for the Boston / Philadelphia series, the most surprising stat to me coming into this matchup is that they have not faced each other in the playoffs since 1978. Both teams are playing like they were predicted to prior to the season starting, but I think the Bruins are a little better and have home ice, so I see Boston moving on to the conference finals.

But the real story so far of these playoffs is the collapse of the Washington Capitals against the eighth seeded Canadiens. Not only did the Presidents Trophy winner lose in the first round, but they became the first #1 seed to ever lose a first round matchup by squandering a three games to one lead in the series.

The hero for Montreal was goaltender Jaroslav Halak, but for as good as he was, the Capitals were just as bad. Some will point to their 1 for 33 performance on the power play in the series, but for me the change came after the first period in game 5 when the Capitals seemed to go from a team getting ready to advance, to one not looking to get upset.

Washington came into the fifth game after battering the Canadien goaltenders for 11 goals in the two games in Montreal, but after a first period where the Canadiens scored twice while the Capitals were stopped on all 15 shot attempts by Halak, they seemed to start getting nervous. Then after only one goal on their next 23 shots, the teams were going back to Canada and the Canadiens seemed to be given life.

Games six and seven were exhibitions of great goaltending by Halak and the squeezing of sticks by the Capitals. After each save, the Capitals seemed to grip their sticks tighter and tighter. When the dust had settled, Halak and Montreal were advancing and Washington was left to ask, "What went wrong?"

Most thought Washington had that burning to advance further in this year's playoffs after being ousted by the Penguins last year in a great series. Now, Sidney Crosby and the Penguins get the chance to not only defend The Cup, but in the process beat the team that upset the Capitals. Score another one for "Sid the Kid" over "Alexander the Great".

Lesson Learned.....

Last night, one "upstart" team had chance to take control of a playoff series, while another had the chance to win their series, but both played "veteran" teams with playoff experience. By the end of the night it was playoff experience or the "lack thereof" that was the key to both outcomes.

The games involved the Detroit Red Wings taking on the Phoenix Coyotes in Game 7 of their series, while out in Los Angeles, the Oklahoma City Thunder were facing the Lakers in Game 5 of their series which was tied at two games apiece. Both the Coyotes and Thunder were riding the momentum off their last games and both seemed ready to take full control their respective situations.

For me, I still thought the Red Wings could win their series, but I was having my doubts after they failed to put the Coyotes away on home ice in Game 6. As for the Thunder, I watched games two through four and thought they could be up 3 games to 1 on the Lakers, as Los Angeles just looked slow, beat up and old and ripe to be taken down by the "kids". Seemed like the Red Wings run up the standing during the season and the Lakers bumps and bruises were going to catch up to them. Both the Thunder and Coyotes must have certainly thought it was their time to take advantage of the situations. They and I were wrong, as the veterans showed what playoff experience and poise was all about.

I settled onto the couch for the 9pm drop of the puck from Phoenix, while 90 minutes later the Thunder and Lakers were to tip off. In the end, I really only needed about 20 minutes of viewing to see how both "teachers" showed the "students" that experience is power.

After a scoreless first period, Detroit scored 2 quick goals to start the second section, but the Coyotes came back with one of their own to bring the crowd back into the game. Then, "one day shy of his 40th birthday", Nicklas Lidstrom scored to put the Wings up 3-1, but the Coyotes kept fighting. Then with a little over 2 minutes left in the period, Brad Stuart took a penalty while Detroit was shorthanded to give the Coyotes over a minute of a 2 man advantage. Here was Phoenix's chance to possibly get back to even in the game going into the third period. Instead, a calm Red Wing team tightened up didn't allow a shot while down two men, and to add salt to the Coyote wound, Stuart gets out of the box, grabs the puck and scores before the period ends. Four to one Red Wings and it was time to say good night to Phoenix.

While in the middle of the hockey second period I had "paused" the Laker / Thunder game (got to love DirecTV's "DoublePlay" feature on their dvr) at tipoff, so I went over to it to watch from the start. After the last two games in Oklahoma City, I was ready to see if the Thunder could ride the wave from OC all the way to LA. Problem is that there is no water between the two for that ride. Less than 6 minutes into the game the Lakers were up by sixteen and it seemed like it was more. The Thunder couldn't make a shot and the fast break game that was the catalyst for tying the series was nonexistent. At the end of the third quarter it was a 28 point lead, and again it felt like it wasn't that close.

Just some subtle change in the Laker defense, Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum deciding to play like the big men they are, and the memory of the last two games in Oklahoma had vanished.

Two old, established, veteran (take your pick) teams, seemingly on the ropes with their opponents and many "experts" getting ready to write them off.

In "real time" the tip off of the Laker game and their taking command of the game and the Red Wings killing the 2 man deficit happened in about 20 minutes, but the lessons they taught the Thunder and Coyotes must have seemed to last as long as having detention after school.

The SportsFan Buzz Podcast (4/24/2010).....

The NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament has expanded and found some new TV channels for games to be seen on. Plus the "new" NFL draft has been a success for football fans and the NFL teams. Also a look at the NBA and NHL playoffs. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: April 24, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas

The SportsFan Buzz Podcast (4/22/2010).....

Busy time during this "off season" of the NFL as we are less than 24 hours away from the NFL draft, a day removed from the NFL releasing the 2010 schedule and Ben Roethlisberger is punished by the commissioner's office. Mike joins me to discuss those topics, a look at the first round of the NBA and NHL playoffs and what is going on in baseball's opening weeks. Enjoy.

Mike on Twitter

The SportsFan Buzz: April 22, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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The SportsFan Buzz Podcast (4/18/2010).....

A little bit of "This & That" on the podcast for this lazy Sunday, including a look at the first few days of the NHL Playoffs and the impressions made so far by the different teams. Some golfers got a gift from Phil Mickelson after last weekend's Masters win, and there are some people who really, really love their college football. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: April 18, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas

NBA Playoff preview - The SportsFan Buzz Podcast (4/17/2010).....

A quick podcast preview of the NBA Playoffs. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: April 17, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

NBA Playoff Predictions.....

The NBA Playoffs kicks off this weekend and all eyes seemed to be focused on LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers. They come into the post-season with the league's best record and the favorite to take home the Larry O'Brien championship trophy. Over in the west, Kobe and the Lakers are looking to defend their championship, but they will first have to escape a conference playoff where each team won at least 50 games.

Eastern Conference - First Round:
Cleveland Cavaliers (#1) over Chicago Bulls (#8) - Cleveland is too strong, while Chicago is a mess. Making the playoffs just delays the Vinny Del Negro firing until after the series is over.
Orlando Magic (#2) over Charlotte Bobcats (#7) - The defending Eastern Conference champions get the new kids and the Michael Jordan owned Bobcats. Michael is not expected to suit up, so this will be easy for the Magic.
Atlanta Hawks (#3) over Milwaukee Bucks (#6) - The Andrew Bogut is a huge loss for the Bucks, who really played well during the second half of the season. The Hawks move on to the second round.
Miami Heat (#5) over Boston Celtics (#4) - This one was very tough for me and it should be as this is a matchup of the #4 & #5 seeds. Neither team will probably get past the second round, but the Celtic age and injuries during the season makes me wary in picking them here. Maybe the Big Three can scrape together enough to win the series, but I'll take Dwyane Wade to lead the Heat to the next round.

Western Conference - First Round:
Los Angeles Lakers (#1) over Oklahoma City Thunder (#8) - The Thunder have NBA scoring leader Kevin Durant and a nice compliment of teammates, but it will not be enough to upset Kobe and the Lakers. Phil Jackson already tried to get into Durant's head with his referee/foul remarks (which ended up costing him $35K), but the kid shot back at the coach. Should be fun, but the Lakers move on.
Dallas Mavericks (#2) over San Antonio Spurs (#7) - It is hard for me to go against Tim Duncan and the Spurs, but the Mavericks come into the playoffs as perhaps the hottest team in the conference, along with the Phoenix Suns. It is a shame one of these teams will be losing in the first round, but the Mavs are just the better team, so it will be a short playoff for the Spurs.
Phoenix Suns (#3) over Portland Trail Blazers (#6) - This could have been the best series of the whole first round, but the injury to Brandon Roy now makes this possibly the biggest mismatch. Suns move on easily.
Utah Jazz (#5) over Denver Nuggets (#4) - A month ago I thought Denver could come out of the west, but the cancer diagnosis for Coach George Karl has really seemed to taken its toll on the team. The Jazz hope to have a healthy Carlos Boozer back and will move on to the next round.

Eastern Conference - Semi Finals:
Cleveland Cavaliers over Miami Heat - Too much LeBron and not enough Wade in this match up of great players. It will be fun watching these two on the court together. Now if Shaq was back on the Heat...
Orlando Magic over Atlanta Hawks - Orlando is a very talented team and while the Hawks are improved, it will not be enough to stop Dwight Howard and Magic.

Western Conference - Semi Finals:
Los Angeles Lakers over Utah Jazz - This probably goes the distance, but the Lakers have just a little too much with Kobe and will their way to the conference finals.
Phoenix Suns over Dallas Mavericks - This is another series that seems destined to go the full seven games. Ever since Amare Stoudemire's "non-trade" this team has seemed to take it up a notch. A hard fought series that could be comprised of seven great games.

Eastern Conference Finals:
Orlando Magic over Cleveland Cavaliers - Rematch of last year's conference finals and I think we get the same results. Shaq is supposed to neutralize Dwight Howard but I'm not sure that will be the case over a long series. LeBron needs his teammates to step up and not look to him to do it all, but so far in prior playoffs that has not happened and I think that might be the case again this year.

Western Conference Finals:
Phoenix Suns over Los Angeles Lakers - Kobe has seemed "old" at times and I think after the first two series that will happen again against Steve Nash and the Suns. Phoenix takes advantage of their quickness and I think Stoudemire is going to have a monster series against the Lakers' front line.

NBA Finals:
Phoenix Suns over Orlando Magic - The Magic will be the "bridesmaid" again this year as Nash and Stoudemire are just a bit better than Jameer Nelson and Howard and will bring the championship home to the desert. The series will allow the general public who don't follow the NBA too closely will get to see the true talent of Steve Nash and it will make many wonder what the Suns were doing in even thinking about trading Stoudemire.

Mike's NHL Playoff Picks.....

Here are the picks from Mike that came from our preview podcast.

Eastern Conference First Round:
Caps over Habs
Flyers over Devs
Pens over Sens
Sabres over Bruins

Eastern Conference Semi-Finals:
Caps over Flyers
Pens over Sabres

Eastern Conference Finals:
Caps over Pens

Western Conference First Round:
Sharks over Avs
Hawks over Preds
Canucks over Kings
Yotes over Wings

Western Conference Semi-Finals:
Yotes over Sharks
Canucks over Hawks

Western Conference Finals:
Canucks over Yotes

Stanley Cup
Caps over Canucks

NHL Playoff Preview - The SportsFan Buzz Podcast (4/15/2010).....

The best of all the playoffs in sports is about to start as sixteen NHL teams start their quest for the Stanley Cup. Neither of our favorite NHL teams have made the playoffs this year, but that will not keep Mike and I from previewing the Quest for the Cup.

Will Washington cap its President's Trophy season by also hoisting the Cup? Will Chicago wins its first Stanley Cup since 1961? Is it possible we will see Detroit and Pittsburgh go at it again for the third time in a row? It's time for "playoff beards" and the best two months in sports. Enjoy.

Mike on Twitter.

The SportsFan Buzz: April 15, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

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Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas

NHL Playoff Preview.....

Mike and I will be recording our NHL Playoff podcast in the next day or so, but in the meantime let me put down my predictions on who will carry the Stanley Cup before the games begin.

Western Conference - Round 1:
San Jose Sharks (#1) over Colorado Avalanche (#8) in 5 games
Chicago Blackhawks (#2) over Nashville Predators (#7) in 6 games
Vancouver Canucks (#3) over Los Angeles Kings (#6) in 7 games
Detroit Red Wings (#5) over Phoenix Coyotes (#4) in 6 games

Eastern Conference - Round 1:
Washington Capitals (#1) over Montreal Canadiens (#8) in 5 games
New Jersey Devils (#2) over Philadelphia Flyers (#7) in 6 games
Buffalo Sabres (#3) over Boston Bruins (#6) in 6 games
Pittsburgh Penguins (#4) over Ottawa Senators (#5) in 6 games

Western Conference - Semi Finals:
San Jose Sharks over Detroit Red Wings in 5 games
Chicago Blackhawks over Vancouver Canucks in 6 games

Eastern Conference - Semi Finals:
Pittsburgh Penguins over Washington Capitals in 7 games
New Jersey Devils over Buffalo Sabres in 7 games

Conference Finals:
Chicago Blackhawks over San Jose Sharks in 6 games
Pittsburgh Penguins over New Jersey Devils in 6 games

Stanley Cup Finals:
Chicago Blackhawks over Pittsburgh Penguins in 7 games

Master Phil.....

I openly admit that I am a Phil Mickelson fan and have been for a long time. Funny thing is, I can't tell you why or when I became Mickelson fan. Maybe it is because he is "Lefty" and I am a lefty, or maybe it was because he was a little out of shape, but still athletic. A couple of traits I am familiar with on a personal level. Looking back, what I think drew me to Phil was the fact that he was oh so close in the four golfing "majors", but never knew how to take his foot off the gas and coax his way to those elusive victories. Even after his first win in a "major" at the 2004 Masters, Phil still found some ways to lose (see 2006 US Open at Winged Foot), but I still found myself pulling for him.

Well, earlier today Phil Mickelson won his third Masters' green jacket and fourth overall golfing major championship. After sinking a birdie putt to wrap up a three stroke victory, Phil was congratulated by his caddie, golfer Lee Westwood, and Westwood's caddie.

After the sportsmanship, Phil went straight to his wife Amy and gave her a hug that I thought was going to go on forever. Amy was diagnosed last year with breast cancer (Phil's mother was also diagnosed with breast cancer only a short time after Amy's diagnosis) and has been in Augusta since Thursday, but didn't leave her bed until Sunday afternoon. They hugged, and because of the power of HD television, we could see tears streaming down Phil's eyes. Maybe, even through misty eyes of your own.

It was a week when the sports world focused on Augusta and was talking about that "other golfer" and the off the field problems that plagued him, and yes, that includes me. At the same time we were being told that a two time Super Bowl winning quarterback would possibly be facing sexual assault charges, while a NFL defensive lineman was arrested for carrying a loaded gun in an airport. It was enough to make you question your love for sports and those that play the games. I'm sure it is enough to make some question why I do and want to do all this "sports stuff".

Instead, Phil's victory and subsequent moment with Amy erased all of those negative thoughts and reinforced my love of sports and those who play the game. It is the reason I spent my time on these columns, the podcasts and why I hope and pray someone gives me a chance to do this for a living. Moments and stories like Phil and Amy's is why I love sports and do what I do.

Thank you Lefty.

The SportsFan Buzz Podcast (4/11/2010).....

The past nine days have been great if you are a sports fan. We had two NCAA Basketball Champions crowned (both men and women), the final week of the NHL regular season, the start of the 2010 MLB season, and The Masters is underway. Plus we had an All-Pro quarterback traded to a team within the same division of his former team.

Mike Tricarico joins me to go over the past week and discuss the sports stories peaking our interest. Enjoy.

Mike on Twitter.

The SportsFan Buzz: April 11, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

You can find and subscribe to the podcast on iTunes.
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Follow The SportsFan Buzz on Twitter.

Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas

MLB 2010 predictions.....

I gave my predictions for this upcoming baseball season on the last podcast, but let's get them in print so that all can ridicule them come October. Yes, it is more heart than brains in picking my Los Angeles Dodgers to win it all.

AL playoff teams:
Boston Red Sox
Chicago White Sox
Los Angeles Angels
Minnesota Twins (wild card)

NL playoff teams:
Philadelphia Phillies
St. Louis Cardinals
Los Angeles Dodgers
Atlanta Braves (wild card)

World Series: Dodgers over White Sox

Yes, there is no mention of the defending champion New York Yankees. For some reason their age keeps coming into my head and scaring me off of them. I am possibly completely off base with that fear, but it will hit them sooner than later and I just think it might happen in 2010.

The White Sox are my pick because I think they greatly improved their team last summer when they acquired Jake Peavy. I don't think Peavy is an "NL pitcher" and if healthy, will do real well this year being new to AL batters.

The Red Sox may not have the best offense, but their starting rotation is so deep they will not have prolonged skids during the year. The Angels have Mike Scoiscia managing them, and he will get them to the top of the division by the time August / September rolls around.

The Twins could be the "team" this year with the new ballpark, plus the signing of Joe Mauer, but the Joe Nathan injury scared me off from my early spring feeling that they would win it all. October baseball in Minnesota will be fun.

Injuries to Phillie pitchers should have made me pick the Braves or even the New York Mets to rule the NL East, but those teams have their own injury problems that concern me (hello Chipper "day to day" Jones). If the Braves stay healthy and Jason Heyward is steady in his rookie year, they could give manager Bobby Cox a nice retirement present.

The Cardinals are head and shoulders above the rest of the NL Central. Only a collapse by them, along with a great year by one of the other Central contenders could make this a race.

Oh, my Los Angeles Dodgers. Clayton Kershaw and Chad Billingsley should be the anchors to the rotation and Jonathan Broxton in the closer role. While Matt Kemp, James Loney, Andre Ethier and Manny Ramirez are the bats for Joe Torre's lineup. I think Torre is able to get the most out of Manny this contract year and the two kids do step up to lead the pitchers. That combination will be enough to bring the World Series trophy to LA. We'll see.....

The SportsFan Buzz (4/4/2010).....

Playing the Devils and losing on Easter weekend is probably not a good thing. The NHL is in its final week of play and the races are tight. Kobe Bryant re-signs for big bucks with the Lakers and it is Final Four weekend. Plus what are the Eagles thinking in having their top 2 QBs on the trade market, and I make my predictions for the upcoming MLB season. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: April 4, 2010 (right click to "save as target)

You can find and subscribe to the podcast on iTunes.
You can subscribe to have The SportsFan Buzz delivered to your inbox.
The SportsFan Buzz is on Facebook.
Follow The SportsFan Buzz on Twitter.

Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas

MLB Preview - The SportsFan Buzz Podcast (4/2/2010).....

It is baseball time as the season kicks off this Sunday night with the Yankees visiting Boston to take on the Red Sox. Author Paul Lebowitz joins me to preview the 2010 season as we go through each division to see who will come out on top this October. Will the Yankees win championship #28? Does the divorce of the Dodger owners cause them trouble? Plus we look at other storylines that will make up the 2010 season. Enjoy.

Paul on Twitter.
Paul's website.
Paul's novel, Breaking Balls.
Paul's 2010 Baseball Guide

The SportsFan Buzz: April 2, 2010 (American League) (right click to "save as target)
The SportsFan Buzz: April 2, 2010 (National League) (right click to "save as target)

You can find and subscribe to the podcast on iTunes.
You can subscribe to have The SportsFan Buzz delivered to your inbox.
The SportsFan Buzz is on Facebook.
Follow The SportsFan Buzz on Twitter.

Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas