Bleacher Report - Front Page

5 Free Agents the Utah Jazz Must Avoid

Eric Edelman — Thu, 23 May 2013 05:30:48 -0400

Okay, we know, Salt Lake City possesses neither the Hollywood glamour of a Los Angeles nor the breezy beaches of a Miami, but they still have the cap space to lure in a free agent looking to make an easy pay day.

A job in Utah as a professional basketball player is rather easy at this point. Utah is lottery team lacking a clear direction, so the bar is already set rather low.

That being said, they don't exactly want to fall victim for reactionary hype that often exists in free agent classes. Before signing a free agent, they need to ensure they are the real deal rather than settling for whoever is hot at the moment.

The best examples of this phenomenon are the streakiest of shooters—the sixth man who is either all the way on or all the way useless.

So keeping that in mind, whom exactly should the Jazz avoid signing this offseason?

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What If City Had Held out When They Played Real Madrid at the Bernabeu?

Najeeb Rehman — Thu, 23 May 2013 05:19:33 -0400

Manchester City began their ill-fated Champions League campaign with one of the toughest games in the club’s entire history.

City had once again been drawn in the so-called "Group of Death," but the team were determined to learn from the mistakes of last year, and qualification to the knockout stage was a minimum requirement.

The team arrived at the Bernabeu with Roberto Mancini trying to take the pressure off his players by insisting they were not contenders for the trophy and that no team could win it in just their second year in the competition.

Real Madrid had begun the season in complete disarray. They had only taken four points from as many games and were already eight points behind Barcelona in the league. They had just lost 1-0 to Sevilla, and Jose Mourinho was attracting stinging criticism from the Madrid press for openly questioning the focus and commitment of his players.

Real were the better team on the night, but Joe Hart was having a magnificent game and kept them in the match with a string of fine saves. Yaya Toure was also having a great game, and City opened the scoring when he made a penetrative run from deep to present Edin Dzeko with an easy chance.

Real equalised in the 76th minute, but when Aleksandar Kolarov scored directly from a free-kick to make it 2-1 in the 84th minute, it looked like they had secured an improbable away win against one of the competition’s favourites.

This is when everything went wrong, and within six minutes City’s season had changed completely. First Karim Benzema turned inside Matija Nastasic to score from the edge of the box, and then Cristiano Ronaldo bagged a winner from a tame shot that should have been blocked by Vincent Kompany or saved by Hart.

Hart was partially at fault for the last two goals but had a great game up until the last few minutes, and it should have been accepted that every goalkeeper makes mistakes. His reputation was in the ascendancy, and Europe was beginning to take notice of this talented young English goalkeeper everyone was talking about. The former Manchester United captain Roy Keane had not yet questioned his talent.

The fallout from the game was enormous, and the shock waves could be felt for the remainder of the season. In the post-match interviews Hart told reporters that the team needed to take responsibility for letting a lead slip away in the final few minutes, but according to The Telegraph, Mancini interpreted this interview in the wrong way:

“Joe Hart should stay in goal and make saves. If anyone should criticise the team it should be me, not Joe Hart. I am the judge, not Joe Hart.”

The seeds of Mancini’s downfall were planted in this game and in the way he behaved afterwards. He needed to take City to the knockout stage of the competition but let three precious points slip away. The self-belief the team would have got from beating the mighty Real in their own backyard is immeasurable, but losing in the manner they did only added to their European angst, and their confidence diminished as the games went by.

Mancini’s post-match attack on his players became a running theme throughout the year. He didn’t just single out Joe Hart, Vincent Kompany’s performance was also criticised. The Italian publicly questioned why the defender ducked under Ronaldo’s shot and why the defence sat back so deep in the last 10 minutes.

His behaviour was not too dissimilar to Mourinho’s after the Sevilla game. Real players responded to his public attack with a great performance against City, but ultimately he poisoned his relationship with the players by continually and openly shaming them.

Mancini went even further then the "Special One," and his increasingly fractured relationship with his players culminated in training-ground fight with the enigmatic Mario Balotelli, as reported by the Daily Mail.

The manager undermined his players, and City’s entire squad seemed to lose their form, consistency and confidence—none more spectacularly than the England No.1, Joe Hart.

It's telling that when Mancini lost his job not a single player came out to question the decision or back the manager the way they did when Mark Hughes got the sack.

What if City had held out in the Bernabeu? Would they have qualified from their group? Would Mancini still be in a job? Would the squad have made a stronger defence of their title?

How Arsenal Can Get More from Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain Next Season

James McNicholas — Thu, 23 May 2013 05:00:00 -0400

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain will look back on the 2012-13 season with mixed feelings.

At international level, he excelled. He scored his first international goal against San Marino and established himself in the senior squad. At 19, he already has 10 England caps to his name.

Domestically, Oxlade-Chamberlain would have hoped to have a greater impact.

Heading into the season, Arsenal fans would have felt justified in holding high hopes for their young midfielder. Oxlade-Chamberlain’s emergence was one of the few positives in Arsenal’s 2011-12 campaign. After making his debut in Arsenal’s humiliating defeat at Old Trafford in August 2011, he went on to become an integral member of the squad, with a dominating midfield display against AC Milan a particular highlight.

However, Oxlade-Chamberlain appears to have suffered from the infamous condition known as "second season syndrome." It is a commonly-observed phenomenon whereby a player has an extraordinary impact in their debut season only to fall slightly short of that standard second time around. It is usually attributed to the fact that they have lost the element of surprise: opposition managers know what to expect and subsequently how to deal with them.

All of this could apply to Arsenal’s young tyro. Oxlade-Chamberlain has not regressed, but he has failed to kick on as much as he would have hoped. He began the season starting ahead of Theo Walcott, but Walcott’s good form and the resolution of his contract troubles saw the more experienced man reclaim his place.

Oxlade-Chamberlain will be disappointed to have only started 17 games across the entire season. That’s one less than the erratic Gervinho, who also spent considerable time away at the African Cup of Nations.

A simple solution to Oxlade-Chamberlain’s struggles is to give him more game time. Only by playing regularly can he be expected to gain the experience which will allow him to improve.

French media outlets, including Le Foot Gazette des , are reporting that Gervinho could be a transfer target for French side Lyon. If Arsenal were to let the Ivorian go, they would be able to invest more time in the development of Oxlade-Chamberlain, who is six years younger and is already demonstrating significantly superior technical ability.

It’s worth noting that Oxlade-Chamberlain doesn’t have to be starting games to contribute.

In the last few weeks of the 2012-13 season, he began to carve a niche role as an impact substitute. Against Reading for example, Oxlade-Chamberlain entered the field of play after 75 minutes. Within 120 seconds, he had burst in to the penalty area and won a penalty, which Mikel Arteta subsequently converted.

His raw pace and upper-body strength make "The Ox" a nightmare for defenders with tired legs to shackle. He should also endeavour to add more goals to his game: a final tally of just two is poor for a player with such outstanding shooting ability.

Oxlade-Chamberlain’s career has already mirrored Theo Walcott’s in his journey from Southampton to Arsenal to precocious England international. Perhaps there will be another parallel added, as Oxlade-Chamberlain imitates Walcott’s apprenticeship as an impact substitute prior to becoming a regular starter and scorer.

Perhaps another clue as to Oxlade-Chamberlain’s role next season came on the final day of the Premier League at Newcastle. When Mikel Arteta was withdrawn with a calf problem, Oxlade-Chamberlain was drafted in as a central midfielder—the very same role in which he excelled against Milan 14 months ago. Perhaps this, rather than on the wing, is where his future truly lies.

Goal-by-Goal Retrospective of Gareth Bale's 2012-13 Tottenham Season

Frank Wagner — Thu, 23 May 2013 04:26:23 -0400

With Tottenham's season now over, the focus around the club has shifted to the transfer dealings of Gareth Bale.

As Spurs have once again narrowly missed out on the Champions League, the question is whether the superstar Welsh winger will stick around at White Hart Lane or whether he might venture off in search of greener pastures.

While all of the initial signs point to Bale staying at Tottenham, one cannot fault the legitimacy of the question.

After all, the Welsh superstar has established himself as one of the finest players in the world.

At just 23 years of age, Bale won his second PFA Player of the Year award this season after carrying Spurs through their final stretch of matches.

Given his incredible talent, it is hard to fault Bale should he decide to go in search of the highest level of competition.

Further, with clubs lining up ludicrous sums of money for the Welshman, the decision to leave could be out of his hands.

Hence, it makes sense for Tottenham supporters to be slightly reserved about Bale's future, even if optimistic.

Still, this should not stop one from celebrating the incredible season that the winger had in 2012-13.

Let's relive the glory of Gareth Bale's season through every fantastic goal he netted.

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Julio Cesar: Summer Transfer Window Profile and Scouting Report

Peter Brownell — Thu, 23 May 2013 04:00:00 -0400

Queens Park Rangers goalkeeper Julio Cesar is among many players being tipped with a possible transfer in the summer window.

Here's a breakdown of his numbers and a brief scouting guide to the Brazilian, along with a few hints as to where he might be playing next summer.

Age: 33

Contract Situation: Cesar joined Queens Park Rangers in 2012 and is under contract until June 2016.

Career Stops: Flamengo (1998-2005), Internazionale (2005-2012), Chievo (2005, loan), Queens Park Rangers (2012-present).

Current Campaign: Premier League—24 games, 37 goals conceded, one assist; League Cup—one game, three goals conceded; FA Cup—one game, one goal conceded.

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Scouting Guide

Julio Cesar is a goalkeeper for English Premier League club Queens Park Rangers.

He sports a big frame, making him capable of covering much of the goal. However, he is also athletic and quick enough to make excellent reaction saves.

Cesar owns his box and can pick off crosses and corners with ease.

Where Next?

If all indications are true, the Gunners could be employing Cesar very soon.

The Mirror suggests that Arsenal might be the most likely destination for Cesar. A move to the Emirates would be excellent for the Brazilian as he prepares to host the World Cup in 2014.

Breaking Down the Tom Brady Replacement Plan

Mike Dussault — Thu, 23 May 2013 04:00:00 -0400

Tom Brady signed a contract extension with the New England Patriots this offseason, setting 2017 as the likely end of his career with the team.

Unfortunately for Patriots fans, Brady won't play forever, and the end often comes quickly for quarterbacks. Brady has shown no sign of slowing down over recent seasons, but as he gets older, it gets even more important for the Patriots to have an eventual replacement lined up.

What we do know about Bill Belichick is that as soon as there's a better and cheaper option than Brady, he'll no longer be a New England Patriot. That's the harsh reality, but Brady is well aware of the fact, and it helps keep him on top of his game. A new quarterback will have to dethrone Brady to take his job before 2017, and Brady certainly won't make it easy.

Ideally, the Pats would love to have a player who can back up Brady and learn from future the Hall of Famer before taking the reins (Aaron Rodgers anyone?)

Ryan Mallet has had two seasons behind Brady so far, but showed little in preseason to convince anyone that he's the heir apparent. This will be a huge summer for Mallet to make an impression on the Pats and the rest of the NFL, though he got off to a shaky starts at OTAs this past week, appearing "rusty."

Mallet is in no-man's land with two years left in his contract. Even if he shows enough potential this season, can the Pats really hang on to him long enough for him to beat out Brady?

Third-stringer Mike Kafka showed real promise with the Eagles in the 2011 preseason, completing 69.4 percent of his passes for 368 yards and two touchdowns. He also has two years left on his current deal, so he still has a chance to earn a second contract and possibly succeed Brady.

There are no easy answers, especially when Brady remains among the best in the NFL at his position.

It's rare that the quarterback transition goes as cleanly as the Colts' did, going from Peyton Manning to Andrew Luck. Barring an epic meltdown season, it's unlikely the Pats would be in position to draft the next great quarterback at the top of the draft before Brady retires.

Therefore, New England must continue to stock the bottom of the roster and practice squad with quarterbacks while also paying extra close attention to the ones coming out of the draft.

A quarterback drafted in 2014 would sign a four-year deal, matching their contract length with Brady's and presenting the perfect mentorship opportunity. Mallet would provide an element of insurance in 2014 should Brady get hurt or sharply decline, and from there it would be an open competition until 2017.

Whether it's via free agency or the draft, the Patriots must get at least a couple quarterbacks in the pipeline over the next few seasons. Mallet's experience in the system provides them a bit of a safety net, but his long-term viability is still in question.

It's not necessary for New England to overextend or make risky moves to find a suitable replacement. Their system is established, and there are enough weapons to ease any transition they might have to make in the next few seasons.

Brady's retirement is inevitable, but the Patriots are always thinking ahead and should begin to target potential successors immediately following this season, if not sooner.

Mike Dussault is a New England Patriots Featured Columnist and is the Managing Editor of PatsPropaganda .com. You can follow him on Twitter here.

Teixeira Is More Than Hype; Should Get 'Shogun' with Win over Te Huna

Adam Hill — Thu, 23 May 2013 03:49:04 -0400

If Glover Teixeira’s hype were a publicly traded stock, then Jim Cramer would be screaming like a madman to buy it bullishly.

Since making the jump to the bright lights of the UFC, Teixeira has slowly built up a head of steam in the light heavyweight division. And in that time, the Brazilian has gone from a relatively unknown entity to a budding star on the world’s biggest MMA stage.

After Teixeira destroyed Fabio Maldonado in his second bout at UFC 153, it appeared that he was set for a collision course with a potential contender.

In the post-fight press conference, UFC President Dana White told MMA Weekly where Teixeira stood in the division, stating that, “He’s going to have to fight one of the top guys before we start talking about title shots."

In January, Teixeira chalked up a decisive unanimous-decision victory over former light heavyweight champ Quinton “Rampage” Jackson. The fight gave him a win over an opponent with marquee name value, but it would be disingenuous to say that “Rampage” was in top form.

Regardless of this concession, Teixeira’s performance alone should have earned him the opportunity to be paired against a legit top-10 opponent in his next fight.

Originally, Teixeira was supposed to take on Ryan Bader at UFC 160, but Bader pulled out of the fight with an unspecified injury. Now he is scheduled to fight James Te Huna in the third fight of the pay-per-view card.

Te Huna is currently riding a four-fight win streak in the UFC. Most recently, he thumped Ryan Jimmo in a pretty lopsided bout, but that certainly doesn’t put him in the upper echelon of the division.

Okay, so riddle me this, Batman.

If Glover Teixeira is the No. 4 light heavyweight in the UFC’s official standings, then why on God’s green Earth is he fighting the unranked Te Huna?

Even if one believes that Teixeira’s placement is over-inflated, this fight still makes absolutely no sense for him. What does he achieve if he beats Te Huna? Nothing.

At best, it is a lateral move for Teixeira. A victory puts him no closer to getting a crack at the belt. On the other hand, a loss would be devastating to his title hopes, especially given the fact that he’s already 33. This is a no-win situation.

Right now, Teixeira exists in the nebulous world of hype. People are buying into the promise. The Brazilian has shown glimmers of greatness, but it’s impossible to know if it is for real without him actually fighting a top-level guy. Until that happens, everything else is purely conjecture.

The UFC needs to stop messing around and give Teixeira an opponent that will put his skills to the test. Then fans will finally see if he has what it takes to be a serious contender in the light heavyweight division.

A matchup with Mauricio “Shogun” Rua would be perfect follow-up for Teixeira after he runs through Te Huna on Saturday.

“Shogun” is already set to take on Antônio Rogério Nogueira at UFC 161 in June. This fight is a rematch of their battle in the 2005 Pride Middleweight Grand Prix quarterfinal.

Teixeira and Rua also already have a “history.” This stems from Rua supposedly stating—according to Dana White in a postfight UFC on FX interview—that he would prefer to be cut from the UFC than fight Teixeira at UFC on FOX 4. Rua disputed that in an interview with Tatame that was reposted on SB Nation.

According to White, the reason “Shogun” and his managers didn’t accept the fight was because:

[Teixeira’s] not top 10. But then we offered him Brandon Vera and he took it in two seconds – and Vera isn't top 10 either.

Rua ended up defeating Vera via TKO in the fourth round.

Now nearly a year later, the two fighters find themselves in similar positions. Teixeira is riding an 18-fight win streak and “Shogun” is sporting a record of 3-4 in his last seven bouts; however, they are in the mix at 205.

The fighters would bring similar styles to the Octagon. They are both effective strikers and submission artists with a combined 36 finishes between them. “Shogun” has been involved in some epic wars over his career, and a fight with Teixeira has all the makings for another classic.

A win over "Shogun" would still probably put Teixeira at least one more quality fight away from a title shot, but it would go a long way in proving that he is more than just hype.

And if Teixeira can finish Rua in spectacular fashion, it will be difficult not to consider him a true force to be reckoned with in the light heavyweight division.

San Francisco Giants: Offseason Moves the Team Should Have Made Going into 2013

Keely Flanagan — Thu, 23 May 2013 03:21:37 -0400

The San Francisco Giants are off to a winning start. They currently sit at a respectable 26-21 (as of May 22), tied for first in the NL West with the Colorado Rockies and Arizona Diamondbacks.

However, there are noticeable holes that have only become more noticeable as the season has worn on.

To be fair, hindsight is 20/20. Still, there are moves the Giants' front office could have made in the offseason. Going further, there were signs during spring training that should have clued general manager Brian Sabean into potential problems.

San Francisco is currently in need of a solid backup catcher and another starter in the rotation, with the latter arising before right-hander Ryan Vogelsong fractured his pitching hand on May 20.

The backup catcher issue at first appears to be a minor one. Buster Posey is the reigning NL MVP, after all. Upon further investigation, however, the problem magnifies. Posey is not only the reigning NL MVP, but he is arguably the single most valuable commodity on the Giants. Historically, manager Bruce Bochy favors giving his catchers much-needed rest—and with good reason. Bochy himself played the position and knows full well the physical demands playing behind the plate incurs.

In 2012, the Giants had a solid option in backup catcher Hector Sanchez. Although his defense was still in the development phase, Sanchez added a bat to the lineup. In 2012, Sanchez batted .280 in 227 plate appearances. Sanchez took over catching for an erratic Tim Lincecum, thus lessening Posey's workload as well as his possibility for injury.

Fast-forward to spring training 2013. Sanchez arrived to Arizona out of shape:

Be it his weight issues or other factors, Sanchez fizzled in spring training. His injury-plagued spring opened up the competition for the backup catcher spot. Unfortunately, the competition was not exactly stiff.

Carl Seward of the San Jose Mercury News wrote on March 14:

"The Giants don't have the safety net at catcher they once did. Other than National League MVP Buster Posey and Sanchez, the departed Eli Whiteside was the only other Giants player who saw time behind the plate last season, and that was for a mere three starts and 37 innings."

Currently, the Giants have employed Guillermo Quiroz as their go-to backup catcher. As of May 22, the 31-year-old Quiroz is batting a paltry .214—still higher than his career average of .207. His defense behind the plate leaves much to be desired, and he just does not appear to be a viable option long-term.

Hector Sanchez's absence revealed a gaping hole on the Giants bench. Going one step further, San Francisco's previously impenetrable starting rotation has largely struggled throughout 2013. The last thing a struggling pitcher needs is uncertainty with his partner behind the plate.

Fifth starter Ryan Vogelsong is reportedly out six to eight weeks after undergoing surgery on his pitching hand, according to The Associated Press (via ESPN.com). While the tough-as-nails right-hander has undergone a dismal start to 2013 (7.19 ERA in nine starts), his absence still leaves a huge void in the starting rotation.

Speaking on who will replace Vogelsong in the very near future, Bochy was vague: "Brian's [Sabean] always looking at things. Right now, we're looking at it internally. That's all we're talking about it."

For the short term, there appear to be two likely options moving forward. MLB.com's Chris Haft writes:

The simplest move would be to move Chad Gaudin from the bullpen to the rotation. The right-hander has made 75 Major League starts and possesses more durability than the average reliever, having pitched three innings or more twice and working between two and three innings seven times. He entered Tuesday with an 0-1 record and a 2.10 ERA in 14 appearances.

The second option resides in Triple-A Fresno: left-hander Mike Kickham. The 24-year-old has the hot hand in the minors and could be given the nod to start in the big leagues.

More important are the long-term effects of Vogelsong's departure. The starting five of Matt Cain, Madison Bumgarner, Tim Lincecum, Barry Zito and Vogelsong have been lights out as a unit over the past couple of years. They led the charge (minus Vogelsong) in the Giants' 2010 World Series campaign, and then again in 2012.

And yet, the cracks began to show not in the opening months of 2013, but toward the end of 2012. Vogelsong lost his mojo after the All-Star break, posting a 6.32 ERA in August and a 5.34 ERA in September/October, according to Baseball-Reference. Lincecum had the worst year of his career and one of the worst years of any starting pitcher in all MLB. Bumgarner had a rough patch that extended into the playoffs until fixing his mechanics. Zito excelled in the playoffs, but on the whole, his numbers (except for wins and losses) did not improve much.

Cain and Bumgarner are solid as the rotation's leaders. Lincecum is improving, especially as he regains his control and hits his locations, but his status is still that of a "wild card." Zito is a fine option to anchor a rotation, but is in no way a No. 3-caliber starter. Hopefully, Vogelsong can return to his 2011-12 form after this two-month DL stint, but, if not, the Giants are without a consistent starter for the 3-hole in the rotation.

To reiterate, hindsight is 20/20. The fact remains: There were signs of cracks in the starting rotation. If the Giants want to go deep into the postseason, or even make the postseason, they need another consistent arm in the rotation.

For now, the Giants will work with what they've got. The offense has picked up the slack, and the team has experienced moderate success so far. While the Giants chose to undergo a quiet offseason, some louder moves will need to be made down the stretch.

Everton FC: Complete Stats Guide to the Toffees' 2012-13 Premier League Season

Matt Cheetham — Thu, 23 May 2013 03:10:24 -0400

Everton's 2012-13 Premier League season, the last under David Moyes, is now well and truly consigned to the football annuals of time.

A sixth-placed finish and 63 points may well have been taken by most supporters back in August, but an unfortunate lack of European football and two dismal cup exits will leave a sour taste lingering in the mouths of many.

Several excellent, in-depth analysis of the Toffees' fluctuating fortunes have already been written, highlighting the tactical trends of the season. Following on in this style, here's more of a focus on the individuals, as opposed to the team.

Goalkeeper

We start with a look at Everton's goalkeeper, which, as it has been for the past seven years, was almost entirely Tim Howard. Jan Mucha performed heroics in a memorable win over Manchester City, but the rest of his season was almost completely irrelevant, mirroring his previous three years on Merseyside.

Here's a look at Howard's statistics, compared to his form over the past five seasons:

It's actually quite remarkable how similar Howard's five years have been, but these numbers don't show the American's sporadic production this season. Six clean sheets in his final nine appearances actually glossed over a lengthy bout of inconsistency and rather augmented his final return, as this article highlights.

Initially this campaign was on course to be his worst at Everton, as early-season lapses against Newcastle, Stoke, Norwich and Fulham ultimately cost the Toffees dearly. His five individual errors, all during the first half of the season, are his worst return for the club.

On his game, the American is still one of the most reliable goalkeepers in the division, but there is certainly a need to identify a younger model to develop behind him and eventually replace him with.

Defence

After an uncertain middle period, Everton's defence rallied to finish the year as the top flight's fourth-best unit, conceding just 40 goals. Here's a look the main defensive contributors:

It doesn't take a vaguely educated eye to spot the main culprit for the Toffees' poorer spells at the back. Having been awarded the Fans' Player of the Year award last season, to say John Heitinga had disappointed over the ensuing 12 months would be a huge understatement.

He recorded the lowest production in most categories and too often handicapped a side that conceded far more goals with him in defence. Leighton Baines may be slightly disappointed with his overall contribution at the back, although his sensational offensive facets more than atone for this.

In contrast, Seamus Coleman was arguably Everton's most improved player this season, and his growing effectiveness is demonstrated by some impressive numbers, while Sylvain Distin and Phil Jagielka are extremely consistent throughout.

That previously mentioned uncertainly relates to a period between September and January when the Toffees failed to keep a clean sheet in 18 matches. A worrying trait that became particularly prominent during this run was an inability to cope with physical strikers. Only Wigan conceded more goals in the air than the Toffees' 15, which is reflected by the aerial duels won column, in which only Distin excels.

Jagielka is exceptional on the ground and in almost all aspects of defending, but perhaps only average in the air. Everton need a towering presence in their left-sided berth to not only complement Jagielka's other excellent assets, but also to compensate for Baines' lack of height. Without Distin, Heitinga is not able enough in this department, and too stylistically similar to Jagielka to partner him, ever. An imposing centre-back must be brought in over the summer.

Midfield

Next, here's a look at Everton's midfield men. When looking at scattered numbers like these it must be remembered how different players have different roles to perform. Sometimes these statistics are useful merely in identifying them as opposed to making instant judgements without relevant context:

One of the main issues with the Toffees' midfield was a lack of bite when not in possession. With Marouane Fellaini predominately occupying a forward berth, Leon Osman, Darron Gibson and Phil Neville were generally left responsible for Everton's core.

Gibson produced the worst tackling figures at the club, Osman was dribbled past more than anyone in the Premier League (aside from Santi Cazorla) and Neville's ground duel success is rather awful. In other words, the Toffees were often vulnerable through the middle.

Fellaini reappeared in a deeper role toward the end of the season and, coincidentally, the Toffees only conceded four goals in their last 10 games—although they also scored far less. With the Belgian potentially about to depart the club, a physical, energetic presence should be targeted in midfield.

Elsewhere, Pienaar's exceptional creative production is emphasised, a return that makes his sometimes sloppy retention skills slightly more forgiveable. With the ball, Osman and Gibson produced fine campaigns, with Gibson's poise and Osman's passing in the final third especially impressive.

Strikers

Attack was Everton's glaring weakness this season, with the Toffees managing at least 10 goals fewer than each of the six sides around them. Here's a look at the main offenders:

It's hard to sufficiently summarise Nikica Jelavic's fall from grace. Having started brightly enough, with six goals in 15 games, the Croatian's currently on a demoralising run of just one Premier League goal in 22 games.

While it may have initially had something to do with Fellaini's forward berth, the fact that the Belgian's recently returned to a deeper role dispels, or at least silences that argument for now. After such a bright burst late last season, this year has only brought disappointment, and he now looks bereft of confidence.

As a result, he records some pretty dismal figures. He creates the least, wins little in the air, misses the target most often and, crucially, needs more chances to score than any other forward.

Elsewhere, the reason for including Kevin Mirallas here is to reveal his increasing effectiveness in the final third. As well as leading the creative and dribbling stakes, he more than holds his own in the shooting department and is surely a candidate to play behind the striker more frequently next season.

Fellaini enjoyed an outstanding start, with eight goals in 14, but found it hard to maintain the pace. The Belgian was still dominant in the air throughout the year and was his side's most clinical player in the final third. Without producing anything statistically stunning, Victor Anichebe produced his most consistent year in an Everton shirt and can be an effective foil for more subtle players around him.

Best and Worst

To finish, here's a light-hearted look at some of Everton's best and worst statistical performers:

It's impossible to review the season in numbers without mentioning Baines' outstanding creative production. The England man fashioned out 116 openings for his teammate, the most in the Premier League—by 12—and currently the most in Europe's five major leagues.

He was also the Toffees' top crosser, made the most tackles, had the most touches and played every minute of a season. He was effectively his side's heartbeat and was rightly crowned the club's Player of the Year.

Statistics via EPL Index and WhoScored?

Follow @Matt_Cheetham

Jonathan Dos Santos : Summer Transfer Window Profile and Scouting Report

Peter Brownell — Thu, 23 May 2013 03:00:00 -0400

Barcelona midfielder Jonathan Dos Santos is among many players being tipped with a possible transfer in the summer window.

Here's a breakdown of his numbers and a brief scouting guide to the Mexican international, along with a few hints as to where he might be playing next summer.

Age: 23

Contract Situation: joined Barcelona in 2012 and is under contract until 2015.

Career Stops: Barcelona (2009-)

Current Campaign: Primera Division—three games; Copa Del Rey—three games.

Video Showreel

Scouting Guide

Dos Santos is a midfielder who plays as an attacking central midfielder for Barcelona and the Mexican national team.

He fits in nicely with Barcelona's tiki-taka style of soccer, competently capable of playing one-touch in tight areas. His distribution is often incisive and he is a very technical player.

Where Next?

With scant playing time this season, all indications are that Dos Santos is on his way out of Barcelona.

Seeking more first-team minutes, the English Premier League club, Liverpool, might well fit the bill as a new home for dos Santos. This piece in the Metro suggests as much at least.

Word from the Mail suggests that both Chelsea and Arsenal could also be potential landing spots for dos Santos as Barcelona try to figure out how to make room to land Gareth Bale.

Regardless of where he ends up, it will be critical for dos Santos' international career to find a club he can play for on a more frequent basis. That will likely be the main motivation behind his decision.

What's Next for Kevin Durant After OKC Thunder 2013 Playoff Exit?

Jimmy Spencer — Thu, 23 May 2013 02:42:01 -0400

Kevin Durant’s season of missed opportunity supports multiple truths that we already knew:

1. Even the most elite of superstars can’t do it alone in today’s NBA.

2. Scoring will never be valued ahead of winning.

3. Durant is still the second-best superstar.

That last detail may be too tart to digest for the league’s sweetheart, considering how much the Oklahoma City Thunder's scorer is "done with" his runner-up baggage, as he said to Sports Illustrated.

But all that feel-good stuff for the 24-year-old, the one who seems like he's already been around for a decade, is ticking toward expiration.

Even if it's still wide open, the window for a title is inevitably closing, and this season proved Durant can't win without sidekick Russell Westbrook.

That’s not harsh; that's the NBA. Excuses don’t carry over in discussions decades later when Hall of Famers are ultimately judged by championships.

Durant dominated offensively in the postseason, averaging 31.8 points after Westbrook went down with a season-ending knee injury in the second game of the first round.

The box score looked fantastic. But so what?

He didn’t succeed late in games when victories were absolutely available. In Games 3 and 4 of the Western Conference semifinals versus the Memphis Grizzlies, Durant combined to shoot just 3-of-17 from the field in both fourth quarters and in one overtime. Oklahoma City lost each game by six points.

Spare us all the “he was the only reason the Thunder were close” escapist harmony. LeBron James didn’t get that back in Cleveland.

Durant didn’t come through. It was his moment to overcome the improbable in a way that creates all-time greats. Instead, Durant was awful at 5-of-21 in the Thunder's series-ending Game 5 loss. He had the opportunity to tie that game in the final seconds and missed.

The league’s No. 2 superstar could not return to even second-place without his second guy.

That’s ultimately how his 2012-13 season will be remembered, like it or not.

2012-13 by the Numbers

The season that ended too abruptly for the league's finest scorer also came with the end of three consecutive scoring titles. Durant finished with a scoring average of 28.1 points, just a smidge behind Anthony's 28.7-point average.

Other than that, it was buckets per usual for the 6’9” try-and-stop-this, box-score magician.He finished second in Most Valuable Player voting to James, receiving 93 out 121 second-place votes.

Durant didn't catch that elusive No. 1 spot, but he did claim the second-highest-scoring season of his career and balanced it with a career-high 4.6 assists, which by the way was second-highest for the Thunder.

Oklahoma City finished first in the Western Conference standings, and, yes, second overall behind the Miami Heat.

No championship yet, but Durant’s postseason numbers were quite ridiculous despite his late-game failings versus Memphis. In 11 playoff games, he averaged 30.8 points, 9.0 rebounds and 6.3 assists in 44.1 minutes per game. As the singular focus of a thinned-out lineup, Durant still shot 45.5 percent.

What They're Saying

There’s nothing wrong with being a good guy; there’s no requirement that says winning a title is only accomplished by being a hardwood punk.

The “not nice” marketing campaign is relevant only to selling apparel.

Still, the clean image continues to follow Durant, even as he nicely barked a little during exit interviews after the Thunder’s second-round exit.

Durant was asked if he felt the 2012-13 season was "wasted," a sentiment expressed once before by Godfather superstar Kobe Bryant after seasons that didn't end with a title.

According to DailyThunder.com, Durant said:

I don’t give a damn. I’m going to be who I’m going to be...I’m not Kobe Bryant. I’m not Michael Jordan. I’m not LeBron James. I’m not Magic Johnson. I’m me. I’m not ever going to compromise myself and my integrity and what I believe in for winning some basketball games or winning a championship. That’s just not how I was brought up. I’m always going to fight for the game I love.

I’m going to claw until the last buzzer sounds and if I win a championship, of course I’ll be happy. I’m not satisfied to be in this league and losing, I’m going to work as hard as I can to get to that mountaintop. I enjoy playing the game, I enjoy being here, but I’m never [sic] come out to the media and say I wasted a year because we lost a championship. Like I said, I don’t have to be Kobe Bryant.

It’s hard to decode what Durant is getting at when he says he won’t compromise his integrity to win a championship. It’s subtly insinuates that the guys he mentions did.

It would have been interesting to hear Durant expand on what exactly he meant, or perhaps the quote can simply be credited to misinterpreted thought.

Either way, what he's saying there doesn't add up with what he's already said.

Stock Watch

For Durant to say he doesn’t “give a damn”? C’mon.

Of course Durant cares. He's the one who said he was tired of being second. He's the one who vocalized his distaste for being the second-best player out of high school, second in the NBA draft and second in MVP voting.

He cares. And so do 99 percent of all NBA fans who qualify superstars against one another, past and present.

Even if Durant truly doesn’t “give a damn,” well fine; that doesn’t mean the comparisons will cease. Expectations for the great ones will always be overly scrutinized.

Durant is awarded patience by popular opinion mostly because of his young age and a humble attitude that never guaranteed immediate championships.

Obviously Westbrook’s injury led to a backward step after an early arrival last season.

Contract Situation

Durant signed a five-year deal for $86 million in the 2010 offseason that will carry him through the 2015-16 season.

Between Durant's paycheck and Westbrook’s deal that extends through 2016-17, the Thunder have an unshakeable core—if not for further injuries—through at least the next three seasons.

By not tying up all its money with a third big-money contract for James Harden, the small-market franchise has left financial room to operate moving forward.

If the team can continue to stay in a healthy financial situation, it will only prolong Durant’s window of winning a title. Durant and Westbrook are both 24 years old and Serge Ibaka is 23 years old.

Projected 2013-14 Stat Line

27.8 PPG / 8.3 RPG / 5.2 APG / 52 FG% / 42 3PT%

Durant upped his assists to 6.3 in the postseason, a clear effect of guiding more Oklahoma City possessions without the presence of Westbrook.

Durant has already dropped hints that he would like to become more of a complete player in the NBA, and he showcased that in the postseason.

Darnell Mayberry of the Oklahoman quoted Durant:

“I can do a lot more,” Durant during the conference semifinals. “It's always things you can do more. I talk to one of my good friends and he said no matter how good you're playing you always can do more.

“That's how I look at it. I just got to find ways to help them out and put them in great positions and continue to just be a vocal leader, a positive leader on the bench and every single time down the court and we'll be fine.”

Durant’s ability to create shots through his unmatchable length will always remain. His true shooting percentage of 64.7 percent this past regular season was the highest of his career.

As his scoring maintains, Durant will naturally shift defensive pressure away from teammates. As he develops a greater veteran lens, his ability to read defenses will naturally create added assists. His long body creates automatic passing lanes.

The Crystal Ball Says...

The pressure will begin to mount.

The wealth of an NBA franchise can spoil quickly and dramatically. Even the infallible can fall suddenly, as was the case when Westbrook went down.

Durant lost a season because of a teammate’s injury.

The outpouring of love for Durant still exists, but the demand to win a title will eventually devour even the most adored superstar. He’s already showing frustration in his role as the league’s deputy MVP.

If Durant and the Thunder fall short again next season, how long will the fickle sports world remain patient?

How long will Durant himself remain patient?

Durant will return for the 2013-14 with a heightened sense of urgency.

With a roster that will includes Westbrook and the potential of another scorer added in the offseason, the Thunder will return to the NBA Finals.

From there, Durant will have the chance to finally ascend to No. 1.

Follow @JimmySpencerNBA

Why We Want to See Mark Hunt Earn a Title Shot with a Win over Junior Dos Santos

Dustin Filloy — Thu, 23 May 2013 02:36:20 -0400

Two years ago, the prospect of watching hard-hitting heavyweights Mark Hunt and former UFC champ Junior dos Santos lock horns in the Octagon seemed like a far-fetched proposition.

Hunt had just snapped a six-fight losing skid with his first win in the UFC, while “Cigano,” was riding an impressive seven-fight winning streak that included five victories via knockout in the UFC.

But the once down-and-out Hunt has evolved radically in the last two years, revitalizing and ultimately transforming his volatile career with four straight wins.

His good fortune has landed him in an advantageous position that few envisioned him leveraging two years ago.

Hunt will square off with Cigano on Saturday in the co-main event of UFC 160 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. UFC president Dana White has deemed the bout a de facto heavyweight title eliminator.

Since rendering Chris Tuchscherer unconscious at UFC 127 for his first win with the company, Hunt’s reeled off notable wins over Ben Rothwell (unanimous decision), Cheick Kongo (TKO) and Stefan Struve (TKO).

Hunt broke Struve’s jaw with a vicious leaping left hook in the third round of their enthralling fight at UFC on Fuel TV 8 to help his popularity reach new heights. The win also garnered him "Knockout of the Night" honors and catapulted “The Super Samoan” to No. 9 on the UFC’s heavyweight rankings.

Hunt, who decisioned the likes of Wanderlei Silva and Mirko “Cro Cop” Filipovic in Japan’s Pride Fighting Championships, had already built a loyal allegiance of fans before joining the UFC.

With one-punch knockout power, sound technical striking chops and a jaw of steel, The Super Samoan represents the prototypical fighter that spectators of all walks of life can pull for.

Hunt also sports a Rocky-like persona that spawned when he began training after being discovered at a street fight outside a nightclub in Auckland, New Zealand.

Not only does The Super Samoan consistently invite a violent, back-and-forth brand of stand-up brawl, he also opposes most forms of ground fighting—unless of course he's in a dominant spot to strike in the top position.

If Hunt can continue to develop a defensive grappling prowess, then The Super Samoan could realistically threaten the UFC's heavyweight strap, regardless of who's holding it.

First, however, Hunt must get through the man that many considered indestructible before his last bout against champ Cain Velasquez at UFC 155.

Before getting brutalized and dropping a unanimous decision to Velasquez in their rematch, Dos Santos terrorized the UFC's heavyweight division winning nine straight fights, seven by way of knockout.

Cigano's dynamic skill set has influenced the oddsmakers to deem him a significant favorite to best Hunt. In fact, Bovada.com has named Dos Santos a 4.5-to-1 favorite (-450) to prevail at UFC 160.

He may not carry the oddsmakers' blessings, but that never stopped Hunt from pulling off an upset over a seemingly unbeatable opponent in the past.

One thing's certain, however; as long as Hunt continues to live the life of a head-hunter, The Super Samoan will always have a large contingency of fans behind him—win or lose.

Chicago Bulls' Step-by-Step Guide to the Offseason

Mike B. — Thu, 23 May 2013 02:22:46 -0400

If you’re hoping for an exciting Chicago Bulls offseason, you’ll be deeply disappointed.

The team doesn’t have the money to sign a top-notch free agent, and it's not going to pull off any blockbuster trades.

There has been speculation, a la Grantland's Bill Simmons, of a deal that would send the Minnesota Timberwolves’ Kevin Love to Chicago. While a squad featuring Derrick Rose, Love and Joakim Noah would be fun to watch, a major transaction like that just isn’t in the cards for the Bulls.

Rose and Noah are basically untouchable. Luol Deng and Jimmy Butler aren’t going anywhere either unless a trade offer emerges that the Bulls can’t turn down.

Also, Carlos Boozer won’t be amnestied, especially after a solid season. The Bulls could let him go next summer, though.

Will Nate Robinson or Marco Belinelli be bought back? What about Nazr Mohammed?

And who should the Bulls draft with their first-round pick—a center or shooting guard?

This slideshow lists the team’s offseason decisions in the order they will be addressed as well as how they will be handled.

Begin Slideshow

What Philadelphia 76ers Roster Will Look Like with and Without Andrew Bynum

Zachary Arthur — Thu, 23 May 2013 02:15:55 -0400

The looming question surrounding the Philadelphia 76ers is what will end up happening with Andrew Bynum and their roster.

Bynum is now a free agent after bowling his knees off to never see the court this past season, and Philadelphia is forced to pull out a Shakespeare quote:

"To re-sign or not to re-sign, that is the question." Well, it was something like that.

The Sixers will have to weigh every option and take a complete look at who they want on their roster for this coming year.

Let's take a look at what would happen if he were on the team and if he wasn't on the team for the 2013-14 season.

Free Agency

With Bynum:

There isn't much to say here. If Philadelphia truly believes that Bynum will be able to get back to full strength and help the organization, then there is a good chance that they'll end up attempting to sign him.

They will be getting a center with a defensive presence, unique body control throughout the paint and severe attitude problems. He is an absolute animal when he is injury-free. So much of an animal that it often overrides any personality issues that arise.

Signing a healthy Bynum would be a good move for the team, but it also leaves them with next-to-no money for remaining free agents. They would be stuck signing veterans and low-level players to minimum contracts.

Without Bynum:

This is where a pretty uneventful free agency would turn fun. It isn't because of the number of available players or because of their talent level.

It is because of Philly's ability to spend money to get who they want.

The Sixers struggled with consistent bench scoring, so look for that to be one of their main points of interest. A number of potential free agents come to mind, but be on the lookout for players like O.J. Mayo and Nate Robinson. These are players who are able to change the landscape of a game by only playing around 25-30 minutes a night.

Next up on this list is rebounding. Paul Millsap and Josh Smith are going to be heavily pursued, but there is a low probability of landing either one. That makes Philadelphia look toward players a tier down like DeJuan Blair or Emeka Okafor. A big name isn't needed to fill this position, just somebody who can go and get a rebound.

Last but not least is that veteran big man. Last year, Philly went with Kwame Brown, and it feels like every team ends up picking one up. It wouldn't be a surprise to see somebody like Samuel Dalembert get an offer as he has maintained some level of productivity throughout the years, and he used to play on the Sixers.

Philadelphia will be able to examine the free-agent field and extend money to those that fit best.

Rotation

With Bynum:

Having Bynum on the team only helps if he is able to play.

Something he wasn't able to do once last year.

With that in mind, we're going to assume that he is healthy and ready to go when we talk about what Philly's rotation would look like with him in it.

Starters

Bench

Spencer Hawes, C
Jason Richardson, SG
Damien Wilkins, SG
Kyle Korver, SF
Lavoy Allen, PF/C
Justin Holiday, PG
Draft Pick, PG
Draft Pick C

This rotation assumes that the Sixers will go with a point guard and a center in this year's draft, though that is still to be determined.

The key to the rotation is that Bynum will require some kind of larger contract, limiting what Philadelphia will be able to do in free agency. There isn't going to be much spending money after signing him, so they'll need to pick their other acquisitions carefully.

One type of acquisition that should be a sure signing is some kind of shooter. Above, we have Kyle Korver filling that role as he has played in Philadelphia before, but that person could be anybody. It's all about finding a wing who can knock down perimeter jump shots, so it'll be interesting to see who ends up as that guy.

You also may have noticed Arnett Moultrie moving into the starting role. The Sixers next coach will see Moultrie and what kind of talent he has. He wasn't given much of a shot last season, but he always produced when he saw the court. An advantage to starting Moultrie is that Philly moves Thaddeus Young back to his natural position of small forward.

There is no point in overstating it, but this rotation will only work if Bynum is healthy. The Sixers are almost guaranteed to have a repeat of last year if he isn't.

Without Bynum:

Playing without Bynum on the team is something Philadelphia is all too familiar with, so there won't be much of a transition here.

The Sixers will look to round out their troubled areas by signing a big man, backup point guard and somebody who can score off the bench.

Starters

Jrue Holiday, PG
Jason Richardson, SG
Evan Turner, SF
Thaddeus Young, PF
Spencer Hawes, C

Bench

Nate Robinson, PG
DeJuan Blair, PF
Samuel Dalembert, C
Arnett Moultrie, PF
Damien Wilkins, SG
Lavoy Allen, PF/C
Draft Pick, PG
Draft Pick, C

Picking up Robinson, Blair and Dalembert would address all of their concerns. The other great thing about it is that there is a strong chance that the Sixers would have some money left over that they could play with and end up picking up another player.

The negative aspects of this rotation immediately stand out, though.

Young playing the power forward position means that he'll be able to hold his own, but he just won't be as effective as he could be. Hawes didn't play terrible basketball this past year, however, he never played consistent enough and proved that he shouldn't be in a starting lineup. The most important issue with this rotation is having Turner playing out of position at small forward.

We all know how that recently worked out for the team.

With negatives come positives, and there are is a big one here. Not having Bynum allows the Sixers to give their rookies more minutes. There is a good chance that Philadelphia's lottery pick will be good enough to play but not to start, so easing him into his playing time will be a good thing.

Playing Style

With Bynum:

The 2012-13 Sixers' playing style would have been perfect if Bynum would have been playing. Instead, it felt like the team was running a style for a man who would never end up being there.

Having a healthy Bynum would prevent Philadelphia from having to change much.

Holiday would still be the decision-maker, but now, he would have a reliable inside presence. There would be much more in-and-out basketball, meaning the Sixers would have a guy who draws people into the paint, only to be able to kick it back out for a good look.

Defensively, the entire team would be able to play more intense defense. Everything from guarding the ball to denying passing lanes would be stepped up a notch.

All because they would have Bynum there to protect the basket if one of them got beat.

Bynum's presence would allow Philadelphia to play similar basketball, but at a much more efficient rate.

Without Bynum:

It would be time to revamp the Sixers' style of play without Bynum on the team.

They are already full of younger players with the ability to get out in transition and make plays happen, but they never seem to capitalize on this fact. A high-tempo, up-and-down offense would be necessary, seeing as how they have the athletes to do it.

Using their athleticism would also be beneficial on defense. The team could use a mix of man and zone to force bad shots and turnovers that would lead to what?

You guessed it, transition offense.

There is no point in not using your athletes to their full capability, and that would be the necessary move if Bynum weren't with the Sixers next season.

Only time will tell, though.

To-Do List for Golden State Warriors' Steph Curry to Return Better Next Season

Scott Burns — Thu, 23 May 2013 02:15:46 -0400

Steph Curry lit up the scoreboard and the national fans’ attention spans with dominant playoff performances, but he still has a to-do list to become even better next season.

Curry is arguably the best pure shooter in today’s NBA game, and he will work to improve on his shot selection and his ability to move off screens, since he is now one of the top 10 players in the Association.

With him propelling into stardom, teams will be focusing on limiting his movement and forcing him into close quarters. Curry will need to break through double-teams, use his brilliant ball-handling skills and use his vision to create opportunities for him and his teammates.

Getting Stronger

The first item on his to-do list is to get stronger and strengthen both of his ankles. As you can remember from the playoffs, he hurt his non-surgically repaired ankle, and it significantly limited his mobility in the San Antonio series.

The strength will help Curry play and grind out the extra minutes that he will be playing next season. The stronger each ankle gets from conditioning and hours in the weight room, the better off he will be going into the late season and the playoffs.

He can’t majorly bulk up, or he will lose some of his quickness, but if he can add strength to his frame, he can continue to drive to the center of the court and take on other teams’ bigs. He has perfected his floater as you can see in the video below.

Curry is very creative when he drives to the basket, but the major missing ingredient is that he doesn’t get the fouls and hasn’t generated enough trips to the line.

Finding His Way to the Foul Line

If he can start getting the fouls, and his rising ascension around the league will help, Curry is a deadly shooter at the charity stripe. He shot 90 percent from the line, but he only earned 291 free throws, ranking him 42nd in the league and 12th versus point guards with an average of 3.7 attempts per game.

When he became the “guy” in the playoffs, Curry only averaged 3.2 free throws per game. Yes, he converted at a 92.1 percent rate, but he could have used at least four or five more free trips. In the same number of games (12), Memphis Grizzlies’ point guard Mike Conley has averaged 6.8 attempts per game.

The strength will help show the league that Curry isn’t someone who is afraid of the contact and won’t always be in a position to pass the ball when contact is near. However, he is a very creative passer, as evidenced by his assist to Carl Landry below.

Curry dribbles around and draws the defenders up before he spots Landry near the baseline. He lofts a pass that only Landry can catch, and Landry converts on the play.

Increasing His Assists

Passing is a strength of his game, but he needs to continue to develop the skill before the start of next season. Curry needs to have a 360-degree awareness at all times, so that he can make transition passes, start the pick-and-roll with Andrew Bogut or David Lee and find the open man when he draws more than one defender.

The focus on passing will further enhance his shooting ability, because defenders will have to react to Curry, instead of focusing on just his shot or his dribble-drive penetration. Curry can’t fall into the habit of just relying on his shooting ability.

During the season, Curry averaged 6.9 APG, which ranked him 13th among point guards. In the playoffs, he stepped it up a notch as he dished out 8.1 dimes per game. If he can bring that type of consistency to next season, he is one step closer to becoming one of the league’s best players.

Limiting the Turnovers

Curry has outstanding ball-handling skills, but he can give up easy turnovers here and there. The ankle problems have increased the occasional turnover at times, but this is one area that he really needs to focus on this summer.

He finished the season ranked tied for 180th place in the NBA with former Warrior Monta Ellis by committing 3.1 turnovers per game. Yes, Curry has the ball in his hands more than most players, but he finished tied for 39th place out of 43 point guards.

He can’t force the ball when nobody is open. He needs to survey the floor and kick the ball back to a wing or Andrew Bogut, if he is hanging out near the top of the arc.

On this play, Curry has the ball batted away, which leads to an easy conversion by the San Antonio Spurs.

Combining his assists with his turnovers, Curry has an assist-to-turnover ratio of 2.25, which ranks him 35th among point guards. Top-tier point guard, Chris Paul has an AST/TO ratio of 4.26.

If he can increase his assists and lower his turnovers, Curry will help the Warriors win more close games and pad his star status.

Becoming More of a Defensive Presence

Coach Mark Jackson and assistant coach Mike Malone have reinvented the culture of the Warriors with an intense defensive focus. Curry is a good defender, but there is a lot of room for improvement.

Hopefully with a full offseason without any surgery, Curry can improve his lateral quickness. Against the Spurs, he didn’t have what it took since he was hobbled by his ankles.

Tony Parker dribbles around Curry, gets him off balance and forces him to reach with the foul. As you can see from the remainder of the highlights, Curry is running very slowly and he can’t use his legs to break through the screens.

When he returns next season, he will need to use his new strength and quickness to get between his man and the basket, while he breaks through and avoids players trying to shield him from the play.

He needs to be more effective off the ball where he can fill passing lanes to deflect passes and be in the right position for medium to long rebounds. He also needs to finish plays and not give up if the ball isn’t in his vicinity for a period of time.

Ideally, he should have a sit-down with Chris Mullin, who was known for wearing out his opponents on both sides of the floor.

Curry has a solid foundation in place, and if he can strengthen and condition his body during the summer, he will be an even better player next season. He can isolate and pay particular attention to his weaknesses, Curry could very well move into MVP consideration.

We saw during Game 1 versus the Spurs what Curry can provide.

If Curry can provide this type of consistent play all season, his teammates will benefit from an open floor, and the win total should continue to increase. He can also become a certified All-Star and build on the Warriors' championship dreams.

The Most Electric Red Sox Pitchers of the Last 50 Years

Saul Wisnia — Thu, 23 May 2013 02:10:33 -0400

In leading the Red Sox to victory in Chicago during the final game of a nine-game road trip last night, Clay Buchholz ran his early-season record to 7-0.

The wiry right-hander's white-hot start, which includes a 1.73 ERA and 73 strikeouts in 72.2 innings, is one of the best in franchise history. It also has Red Sox fans wondering, is Buchholz ready to join the list of elite pitchers in Red Sox annals?

These are the guys who didn't just win big games, but had the ballpark buzzing before they even walked in from the bullpen.

Today's Sox in Six focuses on the most electric Red Sox pitchers of the past half-century (in chronological order):

Begin Slideshow

Updated NBA Playoff Superstar Rankings: How Conference Finals Are Shaking It Up

Adam Fromal — Thu, 23 May 2013 02:08:56 -0400

The players populating these updated NBA playoff superstar rankings are so close to a championship that they can taste it. Well, maybe some of them are still using their noses rather than their taste buds, but the point still stands.

We're into the conference finals now, so only players from four teams—the Miami Heat, Indiana Pacers, Memphis Grizzlies and San Antonio Spurs—are still eligible for the rankings.

This round features a number of incredible individual matchups. Tony Parker and Mike Conley are going head-to-head out on the perimeter. Marc Gasol and Tim Duncan are banging bodies in the paint. LeBron James and Paul George are doing everything they can to embarrass each other on both ends of the court.

So, who's emerging out of the pack? Has anyone dethroned the league MVP? How are things changing from last week's edition?

You'll have to read on to find out.

Note: All stats, unless otherwise noted, come from ESPN and Basketball-Reference.com and are current through Tuesday, May 21. Performances from Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals were accounted for, but the listed stats do not reflect them.

Begin Slideshow

Breaking Down the Biggest Keys to Another Alabama Football National Championship

Charlie Potter — Thu, 23 May 2013 01:46:31 -0400

The University of Alabama is on top of the college football world, after winning its third national championship is four years, and it will look to do the unthinkable and win a third consecutive title in the upcoming season.

But the Crimson Tide are not invincible to obstacles that every program faces during the offseason. No, Alabama must overcome the departures of several key contributors and groom inexperienced players into elite playmakers before the Tide's Aug. 31 matchup with Virginia Tech.

There are pieces already in place for Alabama to reach the same level it met in 2012, but there are still aspects of the game that need to be addressed before head coach Nick Saban and Co. can begin to think about the coveted three-peat.

Here, we break down the biggest keys for Alabama to obtain yet another national championship.

Begin Slideshow

Paul George Says He Wishes Hibbert Played in Key Game 1 OT Possessions

Jesse Dorsey — Thu, 23 May 2013 01:35:39 -0400

LeBron James blew by Paul George for the game-winning layup in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals, the help defense for the Indiana Pacers never showing up, Roy Hibbert sitting 25 feet away on the bench.

It was one of the most criticized moves of the game, Frank Vogel deciding to go with Tyler Hansbrough over Hibbert for the final play.

Hansbrough, George, David West, George Hill and Sam Young were on the court for the play, and when LeBron got the best of George, the only person down low to help out was the 6'6" Young.

LeBron scored and the Pacers lost.

Vogel's reasoning behind benching Hibbert was centered around Chris Bosh's ability to hit a jumper.

"That's the dilemma...when they have Bosh at the five...his ability to space the floor." -Vogel
— KJ_NBA (@KJ_NBA) May 23, 2013

He definitely makes sense, as the fleet-footed Hansbrough is a better option than Hibbert to chase Bosh around on a single possession, but you can't overcompensate for a team's third option when its first option is LeBron James.

Similarly, on the first go-ahead layup that LeBron hit in overtime, George was on the floor with Hill, Lance Stephenson, Young and West, Hibbert chilling on the bench.

The reaction from most was utter shock that Vogel left Hibbert on the bench for those two huge plays, especially since LeBron scored at the rim on both plays.

George wished Roy Hibbert was on the floor at the end: "Yeah, I think we all would. 100 percent he would've been there."
— Tom Haberstroh (@tomhaberstroh) May 23, 2013

Thankfully for the bamboozled Pacers fans, Vogel is man enough to admit when he's made a mistake.

Pacers Coach Frank Vogel on Roy Hibbert at the end of the game: "I would say we'll probably have him in next time."
— Rachel Nichols (@Rachel__Nichols) May 23, 2013

Besides the desire for Hibbert to be in the game late, there was one other big takeaway from George's press conference.

You know what the problem is when you wear a silly shirt to a basketball game?

Paul George postgame podium look: twitter.com/BeyondTheBuzze…
— Beyond The Buzzer(@BeyondTheBuzzer) May 23, 2013

When you look like this, it's hard to get much sympathy from the people watching.

Next time these two meet, let's all hope for a lot more crunch-time Hibbert and a lot fewer amoebas on shirts.

Ranking the Top 10 Free Agent Left Wingers Available This Offseason

Tyler Donohue — Thu, 23 May 2013 01:33:40 -0400

Though the spotlight currently shines squarely on Stanley Cup playoff action, it's never to early to take a peek down the road and reassess rosters in preparation for the offseason. Players from across the globe will be up for grabs.

Some seek solely money, while others are doggedly pursuing elusive Stanley Cup titles. For squads in need of a left winger, there are a variety of options to chose from.

Here we take a look toward free agency with a rundown of top available left wing standouts.

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Free Agents Cleveland Cavaliers Must Avoid

Greg Swartz — Thu, 23 May 2013 01:33:27 -0400

With less than $28 million in guaranteed salaries for next season (per hoopsworld.com), the Cleveland Cavaliers have the cash to go on a serious spending spree this summer.

With a collection of All-Stars hitting the market, it could be very tempting for the Cavs to make a run at a player that would immediately upgrade their team without considering all of the ramifications.

Some players carry considerable upside while also yielding some serious risk.

The Cavs are on a rebuilding plan that could be thrown way off course with just a few bad free agent signings. They've worked hard to collect assets in the form of draft picks, young talent and salary cap space, and need to use all three wisely.

For the following five players, it's best the Cavs keep their distance when considering whom to sign this coming free agency period.

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Shame on PGA Golfers for Not Condemning Sergio Garcia

Chris Landers — Thu, 23 May 2013 01:33:20 -0400

You'd be forgiven for thinking that this was just any other week on the PGA tour.

After Sergio Garcia channeled his inner Fuzzy Zoeller, media solicited opinions from just about everybody. Most commentators rightly responded with outrage, condemning Garcia for a racist and hateful remark. But, significantly, many of Sergio's peers refused to take a stand, opting instead to simply brush it off.

Rory McIlroy claimed that it was simply "a bit of a mountain out of a molehill." Lee Westwood claimed that it was "none of his business" and looked as though he was undergoing a root canal at the podium. But these reactions aren't simply lazy—they're irresponsible at best and hateful in their own right at worst.

We feign shock and awe when someone makes an inflammatory remark, disturbed that someone in 2013 could not only hold such opinions but feel comfortable enough with them to air them publicly. But, really, why are we surprised given the reaction they elicited from the men who Sergio spends the majority of his time with? Why would we expect anything different when his peers seem not to?

Sergio Garcia has always been childish. We know this. He came up as a brazen teenager, eagerly staring down the game's greats with flair to match his game. But a funny thing happened—Sergio Garcia never grew up.

He never became anything more than that same brash kid with prodigious talent without the head space to match. He's consistently wilted under pressure, whether Tiger's stalking him or not, and we shouldn't be stunned when he escalates a petty feud to this level of hatred. This is all he has left as he stares into his 30s and wonders about the career that could have been.

What should very much concern us, though, is the institutional reaction—something that can't simply be measured by an official press release. If systemic change is ever going to happen, it's going to stem from someone setting an example. Someone needs to be willing to get angry, to throw golf's antiquated sense of decorum to the wind and call out his (or her) peers.

This isn't simply "a bit of a mountain out of a molehill." These are attitudes still all too pervasive in America today, and we shrug them off at our own risk.

Those who are most able to effect change, to set the tone for future generations, have chosen to stand apathetically by—and that should make us as angry as anything.

Frank Vogel Chokes Away Game 1 For Indiana Pacers

Jimmy Spencer — Thu, 23 May 2013 01:32:36 -0400

Frank Vogel blew it.

The Indiana Pacers coach allowed LeBron James an open lane for a last-second layup when he kept his rim-protector, Roy Hibbert, on the bench in the final seconds of a 103-102 Game 1 overtime loss to the Miami Heat.

What could have been a monumental victory for the Pacers to begin the Eastern Conference Finals turned into a dreadful coach's decision that will be heavily scrutinized.

The Pacers led by one with 2.2 seconds left in OT as the ball was inbounded from half court to James, who pivoted quickly on an overplaying Paul George and attacked an unguarded rim for the game-winner.

George shouldn’t have allowed James to catch the ball off the inbound in the first place, but by crowding him without help underneath, the league’s strongest driver finished on what paralleled a pregame layup line.

Without the 7'2" Hibbert in the game, the only help became 6'6" reserve Sam Young, who only could watch as James rose over him to the basket.

And all Hibbert could do was shake his head from the bench.

It didn’t just happen once...it happened twice.

Prior to that moment, when the game was tied at 99-99 with 11.4 seconds remaining in overtime and the shot clock down to five seconds, James attacked a naked rim as Hibbert's defense sat.

James blew by George Hill—who had switched on to James after George was screened—leaving only a matador’s swipe by David West, who was caught in no man’s land between lightly shading to help on James and watching Chris Bosh on the perimeter.

So, again, why did Vogel not have Hibbert in the game?

Let’s get this straight: Vogel opted to allow James an easier path to the rim in order to hedge against Bosh's perimeter jumper?

That’s a blown decision.

If it's pick your poison, never opt to test the greatest player in the game. Even if Hibbert was in and came to help on James, thereby leaving Bosh, then assign a rotation that takes away Bosh's open look.

Apologists will swarm to Vogel's defense, but in this instance, it was a coach over-thinking and not allowing his best interior defender to do his job. There's absolutely an element of "LeBron is simply too tough to stop anyway," but it's Vogel's job to put his team in the best situation possible. And he did not do that.

There's always a layer of excuses, but the wrong decision was made. That doesn't make Frank Vogel a bad coach; it just means his poor decision, paired with a poor defensive overplay by George, led to the Heat's win.

At least Vogel is admitting as much.

Follow @JimmySpencerNBA

1 Biggest Area of Need for Every NBA Team Heading into 2013 Offseason

Bryant Knox — Thu, 23 May 2013 01:23:05 -0400

No NBA team is perfect. This we all know.

But with the playoffs coming to an end and the offseason around the corner, every franchise hopes to improve before the 2013-14 season.

Some teams have more flaws than others, but certain teams will look to address one major issue. Regardless of the situation, very few squads can afford to stand pat.

Every team has an objective when aiming for improvement, and whether it be via trade, the draft or the free-agent market, those goals will be top priority once the summer finally begins.

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LeBron James Shows Paul George Official Definition of Clutch

Grant Hughes — Thu, 23 May 2013 01:17:35 -0400

LeBron James' buzzer-beating overtime layup gave the Miami Heat a 103-102 win over the Indiana Pacers in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals, but it also snatched the spotlight from Paul George, whose own late-game heroics couldn't quite measure up to those of the reigning MVP.

James finished with 30 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists, but the enduring images from what'll surely go down as a playoff epic were his two overtime layups. The first came with just 10 seconds remaining; it put the Heat up by two points.

The second sealed the deal as time expired.

The game-winner was the first of its kind in quite some time.

More interestingly, James' clutch performance was a study in stone-cold dominance. He was never fazed by the moment, got incredibly high-percentage looks (thanks largely to great play calls by coach Erik Spoelstra), and never panicked when things looked bleak.

George, while terrific in his own right, was actually kind of responsible for creating the situations in which his team needed clutch shots. So, in much the same way as a relief pitcher can't come into a game with a 10-run lead, give up seven and walk away with a save, George's goofs have to detract a little bit from his otherwise clutch finish.

George's finish was fantastic, but James' seemed almost predetermined.

With 20 seconds remaining and his team trailing by just two points, George drove the lane, left his feet without a clear plan, and whipped the ball to a wide-open Sam Young in the right corner. Unfortunately, Young was uncovered, because he was out of bounds...on the bench.

That play was a potential killer for Indiana, but some good luck factored into George's game-tying shot at the end of regulation as well.

If Ray Allen, free-throw God, hadn't missed one of his two attempts when the Pacers intentionally fouled him three seconds after George's turnover, the game would have been out of reach. But Allen did miss. And the odd circumstances of George's "clutchness" at the end of regulation didn't end there.

The Pacers' final possession was an odd one, complete with a bizarre decision by George and a subsequent redemption—within the span of just a few seconds.

George took the inbound and quickly found himself with a favorable mismatch, as Udonis Haslem had switched onto him after a somewhat lazy pick-and-roll. Instead of blowing by Haslem and drawing a defender (or even taking the quick two-pointer), George picked his dribble up. When his pass to George Hill was deflected, all seemed lost for Indiana.

But somehow, the ball found David West, who flipped a handoff to George as he streaked to his left. From about 30 feet, the 23-year-old All-Star rose and fired.

James, who was closing out on the play, didn't even jump to contest the shot. He was surprised George had taken it. As the ball tore through the net, James merely shrugged, perhaps knowing that he would ultimately have the last laugh. Or, in this case, the last sociopathic non-reaction.

George continued his brilliant play in overtime, scoring eight points and assisting on the Pacers' only other basket. But his go-ahead free-throws with just 2.2 seconds left came as a result of a phantom foul by Dwyane Wade, who appeared to have barely grazed George on his desperation three.

Fittingly, that play was a broken one, too. George had nearly thrown the ball away on the inbound pass, forcing Hill to dive on the floor to retain possession. George ultimately came up with the ball and drew the "foul" on Wade, but things could have gone a bit more smoothly if he'd simply thrown a decent pass from the sideline.

It's hard to take anything away from Paul George, who buried three clutch foul shots to give his team the lead. But LeBron James simply wasn't going to let the Heat lose.

On a brilliant, floor-spacing play that featured all four Miami players fanning out to the corners at the moment James caught the inbound, LBJ blew by a slightly-too-aggressive George and laid the ball softly off the backboard.

It certainly helped that Roy Hibbert wasn't on the floor for the play, but a somewhat curious rotation decision by Frank Vogel shouldn't detract from James' cold-blooded drive.

I'm making a point to compare some of the shakier circumstances of George's play down the stretch to James' icy, flawless finishing moves. But know this: George conducted himself with far more poise than we have a right to expect from a 23-year-old player.

James was just better when it mattered most. Plus, he didn't even crack a smile or pump a fist when he iced the game.

Remember, though, that hasn't always been the case. James used to catch the same kind of flack (and much worse, actually) for his perceived inability to come through in the clutch. It's probably safe to say that he's past all that now.

The positive upshot of the Pacers' gut-wrenching loss is that they (and George, in particular) now believe they can compete with anyone. After all, they hung with the champs on the road in a hotly competitive Game 1.

The thought that should worry the Pacers, though, is this: LeBron James doesn't just believe he'll come through in the clutch these days. He knows it.

Why D.J. Hayden Is the Next Darrelle Revis

Christopher Hansen — Thu, 23 May 2013 01:13:48 -0400

Make no mistake; every NFL team would love to have a Darrelle Revis. Not every team would be willing to take a risk on his knee and pay him what he demands, but every team would love to have his consistent production. Revis is still the prototypical cornerback that everyone wants because he does everything well and can shadow and shutdown No. 1 receivers.

When looking at the 2013 rookie class, only one has the chance to be the next Revis, and it isn’t the player that replaced him in New York. The next Revis is actually University of Houston cornerback D.J. Hayden.

In what was a one of the biggest surprises of the draft, the Oakland Raiders traded down from No. 3 to No. 12, didn’t draft University of Florida defensive tackle Sharrif Floyd and selected Hayden. The Raiders were even willing to take Hayden at No. 3 if no trade had materialized.

Drafting Hayden that early only makes sense if he can be the next Revis.

When a team drafts a cornerback that is—at worst—the third overall player on its board, he is expected to become one of the best in the league. The expectations should be high, and comparing Hayden to one of the best cornerbacks in the league shouldn’t be that much of a stretch.

The Athletic Comparison

Revis is 5’11” and 198 pounds and ran a 4.4-second 40-yard dash at his pro day prior to the 2006 NFL draft. Up until that point, Revis was considered a cornerback that should go at the end of the first round and he ended up going 14th overall to the Jets.

Hayden is 5’11” and 191 pounds and ran between a 4.33-second or 4.42-second 40-yard dash at his pro day, depending on the source. Up until that point, Hayden was considered a cornerback who should go in the second or third round, but he ended up going 12th overall to the Raiders.

In Hayden’s case, he was also coming off one of the most unique injuries in the history of the draft. After tearing his inferior vena cava in a November practice, an injury that is almost always fatal, Hayden lost 30 pounds. Just four months after the injury, he was running a blazing time at his pro day.

At least from a size and speed perspective, Revis and Hayden are quite similar. If Hayden can add a few more pounds after he gets into an NFL weight room, the difference between the two will be very hard to discern.

Level of Competition

We can make athletic and size comparisons easily, but the real test will be once Hayden faces the best receivers in the world. Outside of Hayden’s injury, for which he is now totally cleared, the biggest concern about him was the level of competition he faced playing in the Conference USA.

Teams aren’t going to disclose which players they really like, which left only a handful of media members with access to game film the opportunity to truly evaluate Hayden.

The only games available to the general public were two 2011 games and one 2012 game against UCLA—not enough for amateur draft scouts to give Hayden a complete evaluation and ease the concern about the level of competition he faced.

Mike Mayock of NFL.com elevated Hayden above Dee Milliner on his draft board just days before the draft, citing his performance against Louisiana Tech’s Quinton Patton. Rich Eisen of NFL.com asked Mayock on his podcast who had been a "tape warrior" and Mayock shared this story about Hayden:

I got a bunch of phone calls while I was on the road in March doing pro days:

"Have you done the Houston-kid yet on tape?"

I was like, ‘no, because of the medical’ and they’re like:

"Hey, he just ran 4.38 at his pro day; you better go watch his tape."

I went back and put three of his tapes on the next morning. I was all pumped up; I love these kinds of things and five teams called me in the same day.

"Did you watch D.J. Hayden?"

So the next morning at 5:30 in the morning, I got D.J. Hayden on and I’m like:

"Man, that’s a great tape."

I put his second one in.

"HA! This kid can play man, he can play off, he can play press, he tackles."

Then the third tape was Louisiana Tech and they got Quinton Patton, who is probably a second-round wide receiver, and D.J. Hayden got in his jock and shut him down: four catches, 36 yards, kid couldn’t get off the line of scrimmage.

About the same time that Mayock was coming to the conclusion that Hayden was the top cornerback, Greg Cosell of NFL Films was doing the same. Cosell appeared on the Yahoo’s The Shutdown Corner Podcast and said some pretty interesting things about Hayden (via the Santa Clara Press Democrat):

I watched four games of D.J. Hayden this week, and I’m telling you it was the first time I’d ever seen him play, and as I’m watching I say, “Wait a second, this guy’s the best corner in the draft.” My guess is he won’t be drafted as such. But on film to me, he was the best corner in the draft. He has the naturally quickest feet of any corner in the draft. His backpedal was the most fluid. His balance and body control was absolutely remarkable. He was a sudden mover. He was competitive. He played the run. To me, he was the most physically gifted corner in this draft class.

Typically a late-riser on draft boards is due to tomfoolery by NFL teams, but Hayden’s hype appeared to be real. Despite two of the most respected analysts being high on him, there were still some questions about Hayden’s ability because his performance against Patton never really saw the light of day…until now.

Off-Man Coverage

When Revis was at his best in 2009, the Jets allowed league lows in yards per attempt and touchdown rate despite an average pass rush. Revis had a huge impact on the entire defense because he did everything so well, including playing off-man coverage.

Matt Bowen of the National Football Post calls off-man coverage the hardest thing to play at the NFL level. Bowen also cites Revis as a guy who is a top-tier defensive back because of his ability to play both off-man and press-man coverage.

Off-man is the most difficult coverage because it requires the defensive back to “stay on top with enough cushion to turn (their) hips and run, or to plant and drive downhill on the comeback, curl and dig.” The cornerback will either have single-safety help over the top or no help at all.

Hayden displayed excellent off-man coverage skills in the matchup against Patton. In this example, Houston is using Cover 1, which means single-safety help for Hayden and the other defensive backs.

Hayden shows like he’s going to press Patton, but drops off the line just before the snap. Louisiana Tech has three receivers to the left, meaning Hayden can’t totally rely on the deep safety to be there for him. Notice Hayden’s eyes are on the quarterback.

Hayden gives himself adequate cushion to turn and run with Patton if needed, but he also trusts his instincts. The quarterback didn't even released the ball and Hayden had already stuck his foot in the ground to drive forward and eat up the cushion he had given Patton.

With the ball in the air, the entire cushion is gone and Hayden is draped all over Patton. Hayden is there so quickly that he has to be careful not to commit pass interference. The quarterback sails the pass, perhaps expecting Patton to shake free like he did the rest of the season.

Hayden has great awareness and is able to turn, run and dive to try to make the interception. The ball lands just out of Hayden’s reach, but the fact that he was anywhere close to making the interception is remarkable.

Press-Man Coverage

The Raiders had a two-time All-Pro cornerback in Nnamdi Asomugha who thrived playing press-man coverage for years, but he struggled when asked to play other coverage types with the Philadelphia Eagles. Like Asomugha, Hayden can play press-man coverage, but he’s not just a one-trick pony.

Bowen says that press-man coverage is all about hand placement and being a physical football player:

If you can use those hands to disrupt the release of the WR, keep leverage and play to the hip of the route, you will be in a position to make a play.

You’ll notice in this example that Hayden is playing press-man at the goal line on Patton. A mistake here means six points for Louisiana Tech.

Hayden strikes the chest plate of Patton, disrupting the route and forcing Patton to run around him to try to get open. Hayden could have been more physical, but at the goal line, it’s more important to make sure the receiver doesn’t get separation.

Hayden drops into Patton’s "hip pocket" and mirrors his release. Even the bravest quarterbacks wouldn’t throw into such tight coverage.

If the quarterback were to take a chance, Hayden is in perfect position to make a play as he rides Patton’s hip across the back of the end zone. Patton gets absolutely zero separation from Hayden, and the quarterback is forced to pull the ball down. He is eventually tackled before he makes it into the end zone.

Run Support

Some cornerbacks can cover, but not every cornerback is willing to make plays in the run game. If a defensive coordinator wants to use Cover 2 schemes, he needs to be confident his cornerbacks can come up and make a tackle.

If a cornerback can come help in run support while playing man coverage, that’s an even bigger bonus.

Hayden’s willingness and effectiveness supporting the run gives a defensive coordinator great flexibility to use whatever coverage is best for the situation.

One play after Hayden stuck to Patton like glue at the goal line, he made this play in the run game. Louisiana Tech comes out in the pistol formation with three running backs and two receivers. Hayden is again using press-man coverage on Patton to the outside.

Hayden’s savvy enough to peek into the backfield only to see the running back getting the ball at the 7-yard line.

As the Houston defense strings the Louisiana Tech running back to the outside, Hayden fights off Patton’s block, plants and explodes forward to attempt the tackle.

Hayden lowers his pad level and puts a big hit on the running back, knocking his own helmet off in the process. Hayden had to come out for a play by rule, and Louisiana Tech scored a touchdown on the following play.

Zone Coverage

There are some cornerbacks who thrive in zone coverage who aren’t very good in man coverage. Some defensive schemes don’t even ask the cornerbacks to do both because finding players who can do so effectively are rare.

Revis actually has underrated zone coverage skills that give a defense a lot of flexibility; he’s just so good shutting down No. 1 receivers in man coverage that the Jets didn’t use him in zone coverage very often.

Hayden is that same kind of rare cornerback who can play zone and man coverage.

The Raiders will love the different things they can do with Hayden that they wouldn’t dream of doing last season with a depleted secondary.

The best zone cornerbacks are intelligent, understand offenses and are able to trust their instincts to make plays on the ball. On this 3rd-and-10 play, Hayden understands that Louisiana Tech is just trying try to get to the first down.

Hayden drops to the first-down marker, keeping his feet under him so he can quickly break on an underneath pass and make the stop to force fourth down.

As the quarterback starts to throw, Hayden breaks on Patton’s route.

You may notice that Hayden is the only player to break hard on the underneath route as the rest of the defense continues to sit at the first-down marker. The obvious goal for the defense is to prevent the first down, but Hayden’s instincts told him he’d either be able to make a play or force the throw to go elsewhere.

Although Louisiana Tech would get the first down by beating the zone to the flat on the opposite side, Hayden’s zone technique and instincts were excellent. If the quarterback had tried to force feed Patton, Hayden would have been in position to make a play on the ball.

This is the kind of technique you want to see from a good zone cornerback. Hayden will make plays, force quarterbacks to come off their primary read and help Oakland’s pass rush. These are the same qualities Revis possesses and why he is the highest-paid cornerback in the entire league.

Not There Yet

Although Hayden has the skills to be the next Revis, that doesn’t mean he’s already there. NFL offenses are significantly more complex than the ones he faced in Conference USA.

It sometimes takes a little time for a young cornerback to put it all together, so there will be some growing pains. One shouldn’t expect Hayden to shadow No. 1 receivers as a rookie, and he’ll probably get burned a few times too.

Hayden also has a tendency to get overly physical when the ball is in the air, which could result in pass interference penalties (he had two against Louisiana Tech). The good news is that Hayden wasn’t committing pass interference because he got beat or was out of position.

There was also at least one instance that Hayden was fooled by a play-action fake, had to flip his hips early to run with Patton and got beat by a double move. These are the types of little things Hayden will need to improve at the pro level if he wants to be an elite cornerback.

Hayden is not a finished product, but he does have the whole package.

With the right coaching and hard work, Hayden will become the next Revis. It might be a miracle Hayden is alive, but it will not be a miracle if he develops into one of the best cornerbacks in the entire league.

Special thanks to the University of Houston for providing the game tape and making this piece possible.

Toronto Raptors: Can the Raptors Make a Push into the Playoffs Next Season?

Patrick Yaghoobians — Thu, 23 May 2013 00:59:02 -0400

Last season had its up and downs for the Toronto Raptors. They started off the season horribly. It seemed like Toronto might once again be one of the bottom-feeders of the Eastern Conference.

Right after Andrea Bargnani went down with an arm injury in a game against the Portland Trailblazers, the Raptors seemed to pick up the pace. With Ed Davis in the starting power forward slot, the Raptors now had two big men in Davis and Jonas Valanciunas who defended the paint, grabbed rebounds on both ends of the floor and made a couple of baskets here and there.

The Raptors seemed to be poised to make a push for the playoffs, as they were creeping up to the eighth spot, and things seemed to be going in the right direction.

Then, in a pretty unexpected move, the Raptors traded away longtime Raptor Jose Calderon and Ed Davis to the Memphis Grizzlies in exchange for one of the elite small forwards of the game in Rudy Gay. Gay finally gave the Raptors the small forward they were looking for.

Since the Gay trade, the Raptors were 18-18 to finish off the season, right at the .500 mark. If this were to happen throughout the whole season, so to speak, the Raptors would have been in the playoffs and probably would have given Miami a better run for their money than the Bucks did.

With Gay, the Raptors now have someone who can create his own shot, and although some of his shot selections are not the best, Rudy Gay can score. His defense is also above average, using his length and wingspan to guard opposing small forwards and, at times, power forwards.

The true result of the trade will be seen in the near future, but for the upcoming season, it looks like Bryan Colangelo made a smart move. The chemistry between Rudy and DeMar DeRozan got better as the season went on, and it seemed like they complemented each other very well near the end of the season.

With more chemistry under their belt, this young Raptors squad could definitely make the playoffs next season. DeMar DeRozan and Jonas Valanciunas are still young and are key pieces to this team's future.

Terrence Ross may not end up being a starter with the acquisition of Gay, but he can be the sixth man who brings defense, athleticism and the three-point shot off the bench. Ross struggled last season, but he was only a rookie and is still learning the game at the NBA level.

With Bryan Colangelo no longer the general manager, all Raptor fans are wondering what the new general manager may do in order to improve this team.

They don't have much cap space, so free agents are not going to solve anything in the near future, and they have no picks in this draft, so the one thing Raptor fans can lean on is chemistry, hoping this team learns to work with each other in order to make a push for the playoffs.

It is safe to say this upcoming season may be the most exciting one, and it will definitely come with huge expectations. The playoffs aren't guaranteed, but this Raptors team can definitely make a push next season.

Indy 500 2013: Complete Race Preview and Predictions

Geoffrey Miller — Thu, 23 May 2013 00:58:28 -0400

Sunday's 97th running of the Indianapolis 500—if it's anything like last year's race—figures to be one of the most competitive in the history of the 102-year-old race. Speeds are slightly up from last year's event, which was filled with close racing, lots of passing and wasn't decided until a daring last-lap move produced a crash in turn 1.

Last year's winner, Dario Franchitti, is one of two three-time winners of The Greatest Spectacle in Racing trying Sunday to join the ranks of Indianapolis' all-time elite drivers with four wins.

Other drivers, like surprise pole-sitter Ed Carpenter or current NASCAR driver AJ Allmendinger, will seek to take the checkered flag, drink the traditional celebratory glass of milk in Victory Lane and have their face etched forever on the famous Borg-Warner Trophy.

Next, we'll preview everything you need to know about this year's Indy 500.

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How San Francisco 49ers Losing Michael Crabtree Still Leaves Room for Optimism

Joe Levitt — Thu, 23 May 2013 00:53:03 -0400

So, the San Francisco 49ers lose No. 1 wideout Michael Crabtree until Thanksgiving, but can still feel optimistic?

Uh, what?

USA Today first reported that Crabtree had torn his right Achilles tendon on a basic seven-on-seven drill during Tuesday’s organized team activities. He immediately underwent surgery and is expected to miss up to six months, according to Mike Garafo lo of USA Today.

The 49ers will now hit the gridiron without their first 1,000-yard receiver since Terrell Owens' 1,102-yard campaign in 2003. Quarterback Colin Kaepernick will not have the services of his most trusted target during his first full season as a starter.

Crabtree produced his two highest game totals for receptions, three of his four highest averages per catch and four of his five best receiving outputs for total yards with Kaepernick as his quarterback. He also hauled in the majority of his touchdowns from the dual-threat QB.

More illuminating are Kaepernick’s 606 passing yards and five touchdowns landing in the hands of No. 15, which represented one-third and one-half of his season-long production, respectively.

Kaepernick continued targeting his favorite weapon throughout the playoffs. Crabtree commanded 28 throws, bringing in 20 for 285 yards and three scores.

Again, how can San Francisco find optimism in these seemingly dire circumstances?

Because the Jim Harbaugh-led 49ers feature a tight end-friendly, power-run offense that derives its mojo from a quarterback who can do it all and a defense that sends opponents packing with tourniquets and pain killers.

A thoroughly talented receiver corps—albeit young and returning from injury—should not be undervalued as well.

Think: multiple tight end sets with all-world Vernon Davis and high-round draftee Vance McDonald; triple-headed backfield of Frank Gore, Kendall Hunter and LaMichael James; Super Bowl-winning wideouts Anquan Boldin and Mario Manningham; a ferocious defense boasting All-Pros Justin Smith, Patrick Willis and NaVorro Bowman.

Oh, and one Colin Kaepernick— a quarterback with the biggest arm, pre-eminent speed and most game-breaking ability.

Now let’s realize our inner devil’s advocate.

What happens if Davis—the most dynamic weapon in this offense—doesn’t establish rapport with Kaepernick, as was evidenced last year?

What if Gore wears down significantly, Hunter experiences difficulty recovering from his own Achilles tear and defenses neutralize James in year two?

Will Boldin make that big of an impact in his first season with the 49ers?

Can an injury-plagued Manningham and Kyle Williams and an inexperienced receiving unit of A.J. Jenkins, Quinton Patton and Ricardo Lockette pick up the pieces?

And will this defense, even with all the draft reinforcements, dominate as thoroughly as it did for the majority of 2012?

In a word (or two): no in response to the negative and yes to the affirmative.

The 49ers are still a viable Super Bowl contender without Crabtree for the majority of the season. An 11-win total in the regular season was a reasonable projection before the Achilles tear and remains a likely scenario post-injury.

San Francisco’s championship aspirations will certainly be harder to attain. And the competitive balance in the NFC West, the NFL’s top division, increased as a result.

But the 49ers’ heart and soul does not materialize through a wide receiver, however great he was a season before.

Harbaugh will devise the appropriate game plan, Kaepernick will execute it and the league’s most feared defense will ensure winning results on a weekly basis.

Sometimes you just have to let optimism reign supreme in the face of overwrought gloom and doom.

Follow me on Twitter @jlevitt16

Twitter Reacts to LeBron James' Game 1 Triple-Double, Game Winner

Jesse Dorsey — Thu, 23 May 2013 00:52:53 -0400

LeBron James put in two go-ahead shots for the Miami Heat in Game 1 against the Indiana Pacers, the second one dropping in at the buzzer and giving the Heat the 103-102 win, sending Twitter into a frenzy.

In all, LeBron finished up with 30 points, 10 rebounds, 10 assists, three blocks and one buzzer-beater to start off the Eastern Conference Finals Wednesday night.

LeBron James is the 1st player with at least 26 Pts, 10 Ast, 10 Reb & 3 Blk in a playoff game since Ralph Sampson in 1986.
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) May 23, 2013

As Dwyane Wade fouled Paul George on a three-pointer attempt with just over two seconds to go in overtime, it seemed as if the Pacers had the game in hand.

George hit all three freebies to put the Pacers up by a point, and the visitors just needed one final stop to nab home-court advantage away from the Heat.

ONIONS!!!!!!!!! Phenomenal game. PG making the leap...

— Bill Simmons (@BillSimmons) May 23, 2013

Fans are leaving.
— Ethan J. Skolnick (@EthanJSkolnick) May 23, 2013

Of course, 2.2 seconds is always too much time when you've got a guy like LeBron James on the court. Heat fans should know to stay in their seats.

LeBron got the ball at the top of the key, just barely got the corner on George, and...well you know the rest.

LEBRONATHON
— Zach Harper (@talkhoops) May 23, 2013

"Hey, remember when you guys thought I wasn't clutch?"
— Adam Fromal (@fromal09) May 23, 2013

LeBron: "Paul, you may have arrived, but I've done been here."
— Hardwood Paroxysm (@HPbasketball) May 23, 2013

Of course, the biggest issue that almost everybody on the planet knows is that a particular gigantic man who plays tremendous defense wasn't on the court to protect the rim.

The Indiana Pacers really are in desperate need of defensive-minded center with length.
— Kelly Dwyer (@KDonhoops) May 23, 2013

Know who might've helped there on that contest? That 7-2 guy sitting on your bench, Frank.
— Royce Young (@dailythunder) May 23, 2013

Why take Hibbert out? Why take Hibbert out? Why take Hibbert out? Why take Hibbert out? Why take Hibbert out? Why take Hibbert out?
— Bill Simmons (@BillSimmons) May 23, 2013

Of course, always the team player, LeBron spread the credit around in the postgame interview.

LeBron immortalizes Chris Andersen's "Spirit of Basketball."
— Bethlehem Shoals (@freedarko) May 23, 2013

Regardless of who won the game, there's one thing that's obvious after such a game: basketball is super fun.

Not sure who deserved to win that game but it was fun to watch!
— Daryl Morey (@dmorey) May 23, 2013

You know what's been awesome? The past 28 hours of basketball.

— Hardwood Paroxysm (@HPbasketball) May 23, 2013

Sucks that today’s world won’t let us kick back and marvel at LeBron the way we should.
— Will Brinson (@WillBrinson) May 23, 2013

Hopefully we can get six more games exactly like this one, Indiana getting the upper-hand in a few and the Heat getting the upper-hand in a few.

These two teams know how to put on a show, and that LeBron James character is certainly good at basketball.