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AMSTERDAM, Netherlands -- In a severe blow to the Netherlands World Cup hopes, midfielder Kevin Strootman looks certain to miss the tournament in Brazil because of a serious knee injury. nfl jerseys china . AS Roma said Monday that the 24-year-old Strootman will undergo surgery after tearing the anterior cruciate ligament and possibly damaging the meniscus in his left knee during Sundays 1-0 loss at Napoli. Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal said in a statement he talked to the injured midfielder by phone. "I can imagine his world is falling apart at the moment," Van Gaal said, adding that Strootmans loss "is also a blood-letting for the Netherlands team." The left-footed midfielder has captained the national side in the past and is widely considered a future full-time leader for his country. A strong tackler, he is also comfortable bringing the ball forward in attack. Strootman has played 25 times for the Dutch national side as a midfield enforcer, scoring three times. He was one of only a handful of players virtually guaranteed a place in Van Gaals World Cup squad. "Kevin played a major role in our qualification for the World Cup in Brazil," Van Gaal said. The 2010 runners-up have been drawn to play defending champion Spain, Chile and Australia at the World Cup. jerseys from china . PAUL, Minn. cheap jerseys from china .� The first match will take place on October 25th in Edmonton and will be followed by a second match on October 28th in Vancouver.JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Jacksonville Jaguars running back Maurice�Jones-Drew practiced in a limited capacity Friday, a positive sign he might be able to play against the Tennessee Titans. Coach Gus Bradley says Jones-Drew will be a game-day decision. MJD will work out Sunday morning before the team determines whether he can play in the home finale. Jones-Drew missed last weeks game against Buffalo with a lingering hamstring injury. Jones-Drew is listed as questiionable. cheap jerseys. Linebacker Geno�Hayes (knee) and defensive tackle Roy�Miller (shoulder) also are questionable. Safety Johnathan�Cyprien (thigh), who missed last weeks game, is probable. Also Friday, the Jaguars made several roster moves. Receiver Jeremy�Ebert (ankle) was placed on injured reserve. The team signed defensive tackle Jordan�Miller and receiver Lamaar�Thomas. Both players had been on the practice squad. cheap jerseys cheap jerseys from china ' ' '

TORONTO - Rudy�Gay could barely stand as he prepared to speak to the media minutes after a back-and-forth affair with the Wizards. Demetri Goodson Super Bowl Jersey . The Raptors forward, who has been battling the flu since Thursday evening, skipped shoot around Friday morning but played 31 minutes in his teams resilient 96-88 victory at the Air Canada Centre. "I actually came here feeling worse than I did this morning, but there was no stopping me. I was going to play," Gay said, sitting down. "I was out of breath and theres other things that happen when youre sick, but I had to push through it for my team." Gays first-half performance reflected his pain and was just about the only thing that went wrong for Toronto in the opening 24 minutes. The Raptors shot 51 per cent, held Washington to 38 per cent - allowing 11 points on four-of-21 shooting in the second quarter - and took a commanding lead at home despite Gay going just two-of-10 from the field. As he missed a jumper, his team up 14 late in the second quarter, the home fans - unaware of his illness - began to boo. "He had the flu and [high] temperature and gutted it out," coach Dwane Casey said. "I was proud. He struggled a little bit, but down the stretch he came through for us." With Gay struggling, the Raptors good fortune finally ran out in the third quarter, an ongoing concern for the team. The Wizards outscored Toronto 32-15 in the period. John�Wall had 18 alone. A 13-point halftime lead quickly became a four-point deficit. Gay had just six points on three-of-13 shooting. "You can see why he got paid all that money," DeMar�DeRozan said of Wall, who scored 30 of his game-high 37 in the second half. Toronto had no answer for Wall. Thats when Casey and the Raptors threw the Wizards a curve ball. For the first time in four games, D.J.�Augustin checked in to spell Kyle�Lowry at the point. Terrence�Ross, coming off a couple strong performances, and Steve�Novak shared the floor as the Raptors regained control of the game with the help of Gay and their zone defence. "We had to mix it up," Casey admitted. "Our man [defence] wasnt working. We had to go to something else and it had to be our zone. It worked for us, it got them out of rhythm and it got us into rhythm. We work religiously on the zone and guys are still learning it. It worked out for us tonight." After losing his job as the back-up point guard four games into the season, Augustin got a rare opportunity. It was one that he received in an unfortunate circumstance with rookie Dwight�Buycks - the acting back-up - away from the team following the passing of his father. Still, it was an opportunity he didnt waste. Augustins first shot was a three-pointer, the first hes made all season after missing nine straight attempts. His quickness and knack for the draw and kick helped turn the momentum back in Torontos favour. "Hes a pro," Casey said of Augustin. "He kind of fell out of the rotation. To his credit, the young man has worked at it. Hes stayed after practice, worked late, come back at night and worked on his shot. It paid off."� "Im a firm believer, if youre heart and your mind is in the right place good things will happen for you," said the coach. "And if theyre not, youre sitting on the bench pouting and upset because somebody is getting an opportunity, nothing good is going to happen for you. His heart is in the right place, his mind is in the right place." Augustins resiliency sparked his team and its leading scorer. Gay was a perfect three-for-three in the fourth quarter and added three of his four blocks - one of them of the highlight variety - in the final frame. "It just slowed down," Gay said. "I feel like I was trying to fight through the fact that I was a little sluggish, a little slow. In the fourth quarter, I just let it come to me and it was a lot easier." Exceeding 20 assists in back-to-back games, both victories, the Raptors offence is coming along as they continue to sit atop the Atlantic Division with a 6-7 record. Up next The Raptors will have the day off Saturday, a day of rest Gay plans to take full advantage of, and return to practice on Sunday ahead of their next game at home to the�struggling�Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday. Ha Ha Clinton-Dix Super Bowl Jersey . The Lakers will also visit Cleveland and Philadelphia, have lost four in a row on the road and are 8-18 as the guest this season. They are 3-12 on the road against Western Conference opponents.Jordy Nelson Super Bowl Jersey . Johnson spent the last five seasons with Pittsburgh after being taken in the seventh round of the 2009 draft. He played in 52 games with 26 starts, totalling 22 catches for 216 yards and a touchdown.Got a question on rule clarification, comments on rule enforcements or some memorable NHL stories? Kerry wants to answer your emails at cmonref@tsn.ca! Hi Kerry,�In the Leafs/Penguins game on Monday night Rob Bortuzzo hits Jerry�DAmigo, which leads to a 2-on-1 for the Leafs. No Pens ever touched the puck and the Leafs had a clear scoring opportunity. Why would the refs blow this play dead before a shot is even taken?�Thanks,Chris�---�Kerry, during Monday nights game between Pittsburgh and Toronto, Robert�Bortuzzo hit Jerry�DAmigo with a body check that appeared legal - at least to me.�He was assessed a two-minute minor penalty for an "illegal hit to the head." Kerry, if you look at this on the replay, DAmigos body was bent over, clearly in the line of Bortuzzos shoulder. Bortuzzo did not target the head and thus should not have been assessed the penalty. To me, that hit was a clean body check.�I am fast becoming an anti-NHL fan if this is the direction the league is going.�Thanks,Karl Sundbo�Chris and Karl: When a player delivers a devastating check, especially one that makes significant contact to the head of his opponent, the referees first and primary concern is for the safety of a player that might be in distress and require immediate medical response. Puck possession and a potential scoring opportunity become secondary when contact to the head and concussion related injuries are currently such sensitive and hot topic issues within the entire hockey community. The sight of Jerry�DAmigo turned face down after being struck in the head by the tremendous upward velocity (video) generated through the check by Robert�Bortuzzo might have even given the Officials cause to reflect on the number of times that players have been evacuated from the ice on stretchers this season. I commend the Official that blew his whistle to stop play in this situation. He was the "first responder" in providing swift medical attention to Jerry DAmico who appeared to be in obvious distress. Whenever a player is struck in the head with significant force I believe you will see the Officials will err on the side of caution to stop the play. It was certainly good to see Jerry DAmico return to the Leafs bench after being fully evaluated. Karl, as much I would hate to see you become an anti-NHL fan I dislike these "legal" checks to the head even more! Far too often excuses are being made for a player that delivers a devastating hit to the head when his opponent is vulnerable. Granted, Jerry�DAmigos posture was low as he extended to play the puck; one that Robert�Bortuzzo also made a stab at with his stick. DAmigo was certainly exposed and vulnerable to be legally checked and, as we know, must take responsibility for placing himself in this position. This is wwhere hits of this nature go beyond acceptable for me with regard to "player safety" issues. Ha Ha Clinton-Dix Super Bowl Packers Jersey. Why, instead of just making reasonable contact to eliminate a player or finish a check, does the current "gladiator culture" of hitting deem it necessary to knock an opponent into the outer limits of space! I dont particularly blame Robert�Bortuzzo for taking the shot when it was available to him. I say this even though I deplore the fact that Bortuzzo felt the need to elevate and fully leave his skates at impact against a smaller, bent over and vulnerable opponent. Like so many players today, Robert�Bortuzzo likely believes thats whats expected of him; even when his opponents head is vulnerable. This mindset has become second nature and instinctive for todays players. It must be altered. I place much of the blame on the keepers of the game for letting this excessive culture of hitting perpetuate over time and consistently erode an ever declining respect players demonstrate toward their opponent! Many around the keepers table will deem this just another "good hockey play" as they hand out suspensions in an attempt to hold players accountable and make "better decisions" in dangerous situations. It will take a greater effort to derail this runaway train wreck because the train left the station years ago. Stephane�Richer shared with me a valuable lesson that he learned from Hall of Fame defenceman Larry Robinson in a pre-season game in Richers rookie year with the Montreal Canadiens. The Habs were playing the Oilers in Northlands Coliseum when Richer cross-checked Oilers captain Lee Fogolin in front of the net. As Fogolin then pursued a loose puck behind the net, Richer hit Fogolin right in the numbers driving the veteran player face first into the boards. Fogolin turned and the two players fought. Stephane�Richer was feeling pretty good about the outcome of the fight and his contribution as a rookie player. He did what he thought was expected of him. Richer was even expecting high-fives from his teammates upon his return to the Habs bench after serving the major penalty for fighting. Instead of a pat on the back, Larry Robinson had a heart to heart talk with young Mr. Richer on the Canadiens bench. Robinson explained to the rookie that to earn respect around the NHL he must show respect toward his opponents. The great Larry Robinson continued the lesson by adding, whenever a players numbers were exposed which placed the opponent in a dangerous or vulnerable position you dont hit him with any force. At times like that just do what is necessary to contain your opponent. Robinson suggested Richer would earn more respect for playing that way! I hope it isnt too late for this lesson to be instilled in the present generation of NHL players. All aboard! cheap jerseys cheap jerseys from china ' ' '

CARACAS, Venezuela -- Canada will have to settle for international experience instead of a berth at the 2014 Basketball World Cup. Rob Gronkowski Patriots Jersey . The mens team lost 73-67 to Argentina at the FIBA Americas Championship on Sunday, ruining Canadas chances of qualifying for one of two spots at the World Cup. For head coach Jay Triano, Canadas downfall was in his young teams relative inexperience at the international level. "Our three best players are 22, 22 and 23 years old," said Triano, referencing Cory�Joseph, Tristan�Thompson and Andrew�Nicholson. "Were going up against men who have played this game for a long time and have played at a high level for a long time. "Thats why were here. Were here to get the experience and play against these guys so when were that age, we can compete at the same level and understand the game that much better." Joseph had 19 points for Canada (3-4) in a losing effort, while Nicholson added 17 of his own. Thompson finished with eight points and 10 rebounds. Luis�Scola had 28 points and seven rebounds for Argentina while Selem Safar added 18 points off the bench. Facundo Campazzo chipped in with 10 points and eight assists. Canada led 36-32 at halftime, but Argentina stormed out of the gate in the third quarter and led 61-56 heading to the fourth quarter. Despite the elimination loss, Triano said Canadas play at the tournament bodes well for the future of the national program. "We didnt come here thinking we were just going to get experience, we came here hoping to win. It didnt happen but the experience was gained," Triano said. "The future is still bright and I hope the rest of Canada continues to back these guys and not turn on them because we didnt qualify for the world championships." Canada had four NBA players on its roster at the tournament. Nicholson plays for the Orlando Magic, Joseph is with the San Antonio Spurs, Thompson is a member of the Cleveland Cavaliers and centre Joel�Anthony is on the Miami Heat.Stevan Ridley Kids Jersey . Police leaflets seen by an Associated Press reporter at a central Sochi hotel on Tuesday contain warnings about three potential suicide bombers. A police letter said that one of them, Ruzanna Ibragimova, a 22-year-old widow of an Islamic militant, was at large in Sochi.Rob Gronkowski Blue Jersey . -- After enjoying the chance to watch Toronto beat Anaheim, the San Jose Sharks took advantage of a tired Maple Leafs team to move closer to the Ducks in the standings.BARCELONA, Spain -- Sevilla beat Granada 4-0 on Sunday to keep the pressure on Athletic Bilbao in their fight for Spains last Champions League berth. Celta Vigo outclassed Almeria with a 4-2 away win as forward Manuel "Nolito" Agudo netted a double, and Paulao scored one goal and set up another, but both for the wrong team, as bottom-side Real Betis slumped to a demoralizing 3-1 defeat at Rayo Vallecano. Granadas defeat at Sevilla was eerily similar to Betis debacle, with its players scoring an own goal and gifting another goal to Kevin Gameiro. Diego Mainz redirected Gameiros pass inside his own post in the 14th, and Gameiro tapped in his 14th league goals this season in the 51st, saving Tiago Delfim from being credited with another own goal after he had pushed the ball toward his empty net. Stephane Mbia and Victor Machin added goals for Sevilla in the 58th and 68th. Sevilla plays Valencia on Thursday in the semifinals of the Europa League. This win provisionally closed the gap with fourth-place Bilbao to three points before the Basques visits Barcelona later. Almerias Rodrigo Rios hit the post in the 10th, but Celta dominated the rest of the game through forwards Nolito, Rafina and Fabian Orellana. Rafina set up the opener when his deflected shot fell to Nolito to score in the 19th. Rios levelled in the 40th, only for Nolito to find Charles to cap a buildup started by Orellana in the 52nd. Another flowing move saw Nolito score from a pass by Orellana in the 71st before Rafina lobbed the ball behind the defence for Orellana to add a fourth four minutes later. Vince Wilfork Patriots Jersey. Oscar Diaz got Almerias second goal in the 88th but his side remained two points from safety. Celta, meanwhile, climbed into the middle of the standings. "We went out there with the same philosophy we have had all season," said Nolito, referring to coach Luis Enriques attacking style. "We have to celebrate this win because it is a big step toward staying up." Paulaos nightmare began when he left his back pass woefully short of reaching goalkeeper Adan Garrido, letting Rayo forward Rochina Raixes poach the ball and roll it in for the 14th-minute opener. The Brazilian centre back followed that mistake by unfortunately clearing a cross that floated into his own net in the 27th. Paulao immediately asked to be substituted and was replaced five minutes later, with the Rayo fans in Vallecas Stadium politely applauding him to show their support. Rayo, which has surged out of the drop zone to the middle of the table with only one loss in nine rounds, kept the pressure on as Joaquin Larrivey tapped in a rebound in the 52nd before Javier Chica got Betis consolation goal in the 79th. Betis was left on the brink of relegation, 10 points from safety with four games to go. Later, Barcelonas players and coach will be judged by their fans at Camp Nou after returning from three stinging defeats that threaten to leave the Catalan club without a major trophy for the first time since 2007-08. cheap jerseys cheap jerseys from china ' ' '

VANCOUVER -- Mistakes have cost the Vancouver Canucks time and time again during this lost season. Don Larsen Jersey . With newly minted president of hockey operations Trevor�Linden looking on from above one day after being handed the keys to the franchise, it was more of the same on Thursday night. The Canucks directed 40 shots on goal and played well for long stretches, but turnovers at key moments were the difference as the Colorado Avalanche downed Vancouver 4-2. "I think it was there. Again, I think its like a lot of other games when we lose," said Canucks captain Henrik�Sedin, who opened the scoring in the first period. "Shooting enough pucks to the net, enough chances to win but were making crucial mistakes in the wrong areas of the ice. Thats been something thats been happening all year." Vancouvers captain for seven of his 19 seasons in NHL, Linden was hired on Wednesday to replace president and general manager Mike Gillis, who was fired after the Canucks were officially eliminated from post-season contention for the first time in six years following a dismal 3-0 home loss to the Anaheim Ducks on Monday. What Linden saw Thursday was a team that produced a solid effort in a meaningless outing, but also one that is still finding its way in first-year head coach John Tortorellas system with only two games left in the regular season. "Thats great to get 40 shots, but as a group we were too lax defensively," said Canucks forward Ryan�Kesler. "Playing defence is most of the time a thankless job and its hard work." Tyson�Barrie buried the winner for Colorado with the score tied 2-2 and the teams playing 4-on-4 in the third period. The 22-year-old defenceman from Victoria moved in on a 2-on-1 rush, toe-dragged around a sprawling Alexander�Edler and rifled his 13th of the season, and fifth game winner, past a helpless Jacob�Markstrom. "We hung Markstrom out to dry," said Kesler. "He played good for us tonight and a couple of those goals we hung him out to dry and he had no chance." Tortorella said he was happy with his teams effort in a difficult spot, but lamented the lack of finish that has been commonplace during his time behind the Canucks bench. "We played well, we played hard. It takes us a lot of scoring chances to score a goal," said Tortorella. "That has been a reoccurring theme throughout the year, but I have no beef with our team as far as how hard they played. We generated some good scoring chances in the third period, they did too ... we need a lot of chances to score." Paul�Stastny added two goals and Semyon�Varlamov stopped 38 shots for Colorado (52-21-7), which is 8-0-1 in its last nine games and took over top spot in the Central Division ahead of the scuffling St. Louis Blues. John�Mitchell scored into an empty net for Colorado in the final minute. The Blues, who have lost four straight, and Avalanche each have 111 points with two games left on the schedule, but Colorado holds the tiebreaker. After Barrie gave the Avalanche their 3-2 edge, Edler had a chance to tie the game with just over five minutes to go, but Varlamov made a great glove save on the Canucks defenceman. "Those are big points for us," said Barrie. "We have two games left and we know whats on the line. Varly was outstanding like he has been all year and these next two games are big." David�Booth had the other goal for Vancouver (35-34-11), which got 24 saves from Markstrom in his first start for the Canucks. Dan�Hamhuis added two assists. Markstrom was acquired as part of the Roberto�Luongo trade with the Florida Panthers last month, but got into just one game in relief before Thursday as Eddie�Lack started 19 straight in the Canucks failed attempt to make the playoffs. "No good enough," said Markstrom. "It felt good to be out there and everything felt good, but obviously you want to start with a win." Following a scoreless middle period, Stastny snapped a 1-1 tie with his second of the night and 25th of the season at 5:21 of the third, firing home a rebound off Eric Johnsons shot from the faceoff circle. Booth tied the game 1:39 later with his ninth of the campaign, roofing Hamhuis rebound off the end boards over Varlamovs shoulder from in tight. The Avalanche tied a franchise record with 52 wins and Varlamov broke rookie head coach Patrick�Roys mark of 40 wins in a season by a Colorado goaltender after collecting his 41st of the campaign. "The coach is very happy," Roy deadpanned. "Were going to call Patrick tomorrow to let him know that Varly beat the record and I am sure he is going to be OK with it." Linden, who was shown on the video board before Thursdays opening faceoff and received a nice applause, didnt have to look far to see the kind of success former players can have in management. Avalanche executive vice-president of hockey operations Joe�Sakic has his team in a battle for top spot in the Central Division, while Roy is in the running for the Jack Adams Trophy for a Colorado team that finished 29th last season. But Lindens mountain might be even tougher to the climb. The Avalanche have a tremendous young core, led by Barrie, captain Gabriel�Landeskog and last years No. 1 pick Nathan�MacKinnon -- something the Canucks are sorely lacking. It should be noted that the Edmonton Oilers have also tried the former-players-in-management route and have failed to make the playoffs every year since 2006. Vancouver opened the scoring on Thursday when Sedin tipped home his 11th of the season off a point shot from Hamhuis at 13:52 of the first period. Tortorella said earlier this week that his young players would get a chance to play with three meaningless games left on the schedule, and a play by Vancouver rookie Niklas Jensen directly led to Colorados tying goal with 1:21 to go in the period. Stastny stripped Jensen of the puck at the Avalanche blue-line and he raced in alone, snapping his 24th through Markstroms five-hole. "I thought our guys handled themselves very well tonight. I thought they played hard right on through," said Tortorella. "Its hard. These guys want to play for something. They know in a couple days were done. "Its a difficult situation but its no excuse no matter where were at not to finish the season the proper way and were going to keep on trying to that for the next couple of games here." Notes: Canucks defenceman Kevin�Bieksa said after the game that he will represent Canada at the world championships. ... The Canucks will honour former head coach and general manager Pat Quinn before Sundays season finale against the Calgary Flames. ... Canucks defenceman Jason�Garrison was a healthy scratch as Vancouver chose to dress rookie Frank�Corrado. ... Avalanche forward Matt�Duchene remains out with a knee injury. ... Vancouvers next game is Saturday night in Edmonton against the Oilers. ... Colorado also has two games left on its schedule, both on the road, Friday against the San Jose Sharks and Sunday against Anaheim Ducks. Brian McCann Jersey . Convincing evidence came in the way the Blue Devils kept their focus in a win over Georgia Tech. Jabari Parker had 16 points and 14 rebounds, and No. Derek Jeter Yankees Jersey . Nick�Bonino and Matt�Beleskey also scored in regulation and Frederik�Andersen stopped 27 shots for the Ducks, who will face Dallas in the opening round of the post-season. Anze�Kopitar had two goals, including the tying one with 3:12 left in the third period, and Dustin�Brown also scored for Los Angeles.NEW YORK -- The "laughingstocks" won in a laugher. The Knicks resembled the division champions of a season ago rather than the biggest losers in New York, outplaying and even outtalking the Brooklyn Nets, who look like the real Big Apple busts. Carmelo�Anthony had 19 points and 10 rebounds, Iman�Shumpert scored a season-high 17 points, and the Knicks ended a nine-game losing streak with 113-83 romp Thursday night in the first meeting of the season between the city rivals. "I think everybody looked like they had that feeling that we were tired of losing," Anthony said. "It showed from the tipoff." The Knicks (4-13) snapped a tie with the Nets (5-14) for most losses in New York, winning the game and the crowd with a dominant second half that had Spike Lee and the rest of the fans wearing blue and orange cheering perhaps the Knicks most complete performance of the season. Andrea�Bargnani scored 16 before he was ejected in the fourth quarter, Knicks fans roaring in support of him standing up to Kevin�Garnett. Brook�Lopez had 24 points and nine rebounds for the Nets, who again played without Paul�Pierce, Deron�Williams, or much passion in the second half. "Were struggling but were going to come out of this, man, thats the only way to think," Garnett said. "Im not going to think anything else." The game was nationally televised, as all four matchups are this season, but neither team had been giving fans much reason to watch. Nets coach Jason�Kidd said Tuesday that both teams "stink," and Anthony not only agreed but added that the Knicks were the "laughingstock" of the league. Nobody was laughing at the Knicks on this night. New York made a season-high 16 3-pointers in 27 attempts (59 per cent), rediscovering a stroke that has been missing all season after it set an NBA record for makes in 2012-13, and led by as many as 34 points. Shumpert, who has been the subject of trade rumours and has struggled, hit five 3s and added six rebounds. The Nets hung in while the Knicks made 16 of their first 21 shots overall and trailed by only seven at halftime "Youve got to give the Knicks credit. They came (for) the season shooting around 32 per cent. Tonight they looked like the team of last year where they made a lot of 3s," said Kidd, who played for the Knicks last seaason. Alfonso Soriano Yankees Jersey. "When they started the game off it didnt seem as if they were going to miss. But we stayed the course." Until the third quarter, that is, when their season-long woes in that period returned and the Knicks outscored them 34-16. When the public address announcer urged fans to stand and cheer before the fourth, they responded by booing, clearly sick of watching Brooklyn get hammered over the previous 12 minutes yet again. Tensions rose a couple of times, chiefly in the fourth quarter when Bargnani and Garnett became tangled as Bargnani fell to the court while trying to box out. Both players, along with Amare Stoudemire, were called for technical fouls, and Bargnani was hit with a second and thrown out shortly after when he appeared to say something toward Garnett after making a jumper. Garnett wouldnt discuss the incident, saying "I dont understand Italian" -- though Bargnani insisted whatever he said was in English. He also downplayed the exchange. "The most important thing is that we won the game, we played a great game and weve really got to start to build on this," Bargnani said. There were also double technicals and words exchanged after Andray�Blatche set a hard pick on Shumpert in the first half, but that was about all the fight the Nets showed on the way to their sixth straight home loss. Both teams were booed during the introduction of starting lineups by split fan bases who are united in their early season disgust. The Nets believed they were a championship contender after acquiring Garnett and Pierce from Boston, the centerpieces of a roster that will cost more than $180 million in salary and luxury taxes. The Knicks are second to the Nets in payroll but had never gotten going after losing Tyson�Chandler to a broken leg in their fourth game of the season. But they were the better team right from the tip. The Knicks made 12 of their first 14 shots and were ahead 30-15 after Anthonys 3-pointer with 2:36 remaining in the opening quarter. NOTES: There was a moment of silence before the game for Nelson Mandela, South Africas first black president, who died Thursday at 95. Commissioner David Stern called Mandela "one of the most powerful and inspirational leaders in the world and a great friend of the NBA." ... The Knicks will try to end their seven-game home skid Friday against Orlando. cheap jerseys cheap jerseys from china ' ' '

VANCOUVER -- Mistakes have cost the Vancouver Canucks time and time again during this lost season. Don Larsen Jersey . With newly minted president of hockey operations Trevor�Linden looking on from above one day after being handed the keys to the franchise, it was more of the same on Thursday night. The Canucks directed 40 shots on goal and played well for long stretches, but turnovers at key moments were the difference as the Colorado Avalanche downed Vancouver 4-2. "I think it was there. Again, I think its like a lot of other games when we lose," said Canucks captain Henrik�Sedin, who opened the scoring in the first period. "Shooting enough pucks to the net, enough chances to win but were making crucial mistakes in the wrong areas of the ice. Thats been something thats been happening all year." Vancouvers captain for seven of his 19 seasons in NHL, Linden was hired on Wednesday to replace president and general manager Mike Gillis, who was fired after the Canucks were officially eliminated from post-season contention for the first time in six years following a dismal 3-0 home loss to the Anaheim Ducks on Monday. What Linden saw Thursday was a team that produced a solid effort in a meaningless outing, but also one that is still finding its way in first-year head coach John Tortorellas system with only two games left in the regular season. "Thats great to get 40 shots, but as a group we were too lax defensively," said Canucks forward Ryan�Kesler. "Playing defence is most of the time a thankless job and its hard work." Tyson�Barrie buried the winner for Colorado with the score tied 2-2 and the teams playing 4-on-4 in the third period. The 22-year-old defenceman from Victoria moved in on a 2-on-1 rush, toe-dragged around a sprawling Alexander�Edler and rifled his 13th of the season, and fifth game winner, past a helpless Jacob�Markstrom. "We hung Markstrom out to dry," said Kesler. "He played good for us tonight and a couple of those goals we hung him out to dry and he had no chance." Tortorella said he was happy with his teams effort in a difficult spot, but lamented the lack of finish that has been commonplace during his time behind the Canucks bench. "We played well, we played hard. It takes us a lot of scoring chances to score a goal," said Tortorella. "That has been a reoccurring theme throughout the year, but I have no beef with our team as far as how hard they played. We generated some good scoring chances in the third period, they did too ... we need a lot of chances to score." Paul�Stastny added two goals and Semyon�Varlamov stopped 38 shots for Colorado (52-21-7), which is 8-0-1 in its last nine games and took over top spot in the Central Division ahead of the scuffling St. Louis Blues. John�Mitchell scored into an empty net for Colorado in the final minute. The Blues, who have lost four straight, and Avalanche each have 111 points with two games left on the schedule, but Colorado holds the tiebreaker. After Barrie gave the Avalanche their 3-2 edge, Edler had a chance to tie the game with just over five minutes to go, but Varlamov made a great glove save on the Canucks defenceman. "Those are big points for us," said Barrie. "We have two games left and we know whats on the line. Varly was outstanding like he has been all year and these next two games are big." David�Booth had the other goal for Vancouver (35-34-11), which got 24 saves from Markstrom in his first start for the Canucks. Dan�Hamhuis added two assists. Markstrom was acquired as part of the Roberto�Luongo trade with the Florida Panthers last month, but got into just one game in relief before Thursday as Eddie�Lack started 19 straight in the Canucks failed attempt to make the playoffs. "No good enough," said Markstrom. "It felt good to be out there and everything felt good, but obviously you want to start with a win." Following a scoreless middle period, Stastny snapped a 1-1 tie with his second of the night and 25th of the season at 5:21 of the third, firing home a rebound off Eric Johnsons shot from the faceoff circle. Booth tied the game 1:39 later with his ninth of the campaign, roofing Hamhuis rebound off the end boards over Varlamovs shoulder from in tight. The Avalanche tied a franchise record with 52 wins and Varlamov broke rookie head coach Patrick�Roys mark of 40 wins in a season by a Colorado goaltender after collecting his 41st of the campaign. "The coach is very happy," Roy deadpanned. "Were going to call Patrick tomorrow to let him know that Varly beat the record and I am sure he is going to be OK with it." Linden, who was shown on the video board before Thursdays opening faceoff and received a nice applause, didnt have to look far to see the kind of success former players can have in management. Avalanche executive vice-president of hockey operations Joe�Sakic has his team in a battle for top spot in the Central Division, while Roy is in the running for the Jack Adams Trophy for a Colorado team that finished 29th last season. But Lindens mountain might be even tougher to the climb. The Avalanche have a tremendous young core, led by Barrie, captain Gabriel�Landeskog and last years No. 1 pick Nathan�MacKinnon -- something the Canucks are sorely lacking. It should be noted that the Edmonton Oilers have also tried the former-players-in-management route and have failed to make the playoffs every year since 2006. Vancouver opened the scoring on Thursday when Sedin tipped home his 11th of the season off a point shot from Hamhuis at 13:52 of the first period. Tortorella said earlier this week that his young players would get a chance to play with three meaningless games left on the schedule, and a play by Vancouver rookie Niklas Jensen directly led to Colorados tying goal with 1:21 to go in the period. Stastny stripped Jensen of the puck at the Avalanche blue-line and he raced in alone, snapping his 24th through Markstroms five-hole. "I thought our guys handled themselves very well tonight. I thought they played hard right on through," said Tortorella. "Its hard. These guys want to play for something. They know in a couple days were done. "Its a difficult situation but its no excuse no matter where were at not to finish the season the proper way and were going to keep on trying to that for the next couple of games here." Notes: Canucks defenceman Kevin�Bieksa said after the game that he will represent Canada at the world championships. ... The Canucks will honour former head coach and general manager Pat Quinn before Sundays season finale against the Calgary Flames. ... Canucks defenceman Jason�Garrison was a healthy scratch as Vancouver chose to dress rookie Frank�Corrado. ... Avalanche forward Matt�Duchene remains out with a knee injury. ... Vancouvers next game is Saturday night in Edmonton against the Oilers. ... Colorado also has two games left on its schedule, both on the road, Friday against the San Jose Sharks and Sunday against Anaheim Ducks. Brian McCann Jersey . Convincing evidence came in the way the Blue Devils kept their focus in a win over Georgia Tech. Jabari Parker had 16 points and 14 rebounds, and No. Derek Jeter Yankees Jersey . Nick�Bonino and Matt�Beleskey also scored in regulation and Frederik�Andersen stopped 27 shots for the Ducks, who will face Dallas in the opening round of the post-season. Anze�Kopitar had two goals, including the tying one with 3:12 left in the third period, and Dustin�Brown also scored for Los Angeles.NEW YORK -- The "laughingstocks" won in a laugher. The Knicks resembled the division champions of a season ago rather than the biggest losers in New York, outplaying and even outtalking the Brooklyn Nets, who look like the real Big Apple busts. Carmelo�Anthony had 19 points and 10 rebounds, Iman�Shumpert scored a season-high 17 points, and the Knicks ended a nine-game losing streak with 113-83 romp Thursday night in the first meeting of the season between the city rivals. "I think everybody looked like they had that feeling that we were tired of losing," Anthony said. "It showed from the tipoff." The Knicks (4-13) snapped a tie with the Nets (5-14) for most losses in New York, winning the game and the crowd with a dominant second half that had Spike Lee and the rest of the fans wearing blue and orange cheering perhaps the Knicks most complete performance of the season. Andrea�Bargnani scored 16 before he was ejected in the fourth quarter, Knicks fans roaring in support of him standing up to Kevin�Garnett. Brook�Lopez had 24 points and nine rebounds for the Nets, who again played without Paul�Pierce, Deron�Williams, or much passion in the second half. "Were struggling but were going to come out of this, man, thats the only way to think," Garnett said. "Im not going to think anything else." The game was nationally televised, as all four matchups are this season, but neither team had been giving fans much reason to watch. Nets coach Jason�Kidd said Tuesday that both teams "stink," and Anthony not only agreed but added that the Knicks were the "laughingstock" of the league. Nobody was laughing at the Knicks on this night. New York made a season-high 16 3-pointers in 27 attempts (59 per cent), rediscovering a stroke that has been missing all season after it set an NBA record for makes in 2012-13, and led by as many as 34 points. Shumpert, who has been the subject of trade rumours and has struggled, hit five 3s and added six rebounds. The Nets hung in while the Knicks made 16 of their first 21 shots overall and trailed by only seven at halftime "Youve got to give the Knicks credit. They came (for) the season shooting around 32 per cent. Tonight they looked like the team of last year where they made a lot of 3s," said Kidd, who played for the Knicks last seaason. Alfonso Soriano Yankees Jersey. "When they started the game off it didnt seem as if they were going to miss. But we stayed the course." Until the third quarter, that is, when their season-long woes in that period returned and the Knicks outscored them 34-16. When the public address announcer urged fans to stand and cheer before the fourth, they responded by booing, clearly sick of watching Brooklyn get hammered over the previous 12 minutes yet again. Tensions rose a couple of times, chiefly in the fourth quarter when Bargnani and Garnett became tangled as Bargnani fell to the court while trying to box out. Both players, along with Amare Stoudemire, were called for technical fouls, and Bargnani was hit with a second and thrown out shortly after when he appeared to say something toward Garnett after making a jumper. Garnett wouldnt discuss the incident, saying "I dont understand Italian" -- though Bargnani insisted whatever he said was in English. He also downplayed the exchange. "The most important thing is that we won the game, we played a great game and weve really got to start to build on this," Bargnani said. There were also double technicals and words exchanged after Andray�Blatche set a hard pick on Shumpert in the first half, but that was about all the fight the Nets showed on the way to their sixth straight home loss. Both teams were booed during the introduction of starting lineups by split fan bases who are united in their early season disgust. The Nets believed they were a championship contender after acquiring Garnett and Pierce from Boston, the centerpieces of a roster that will cost more than $180 million in salary and luxury taxes. The Knicks are second to the Nets in payroll but had never gotten going after losing Tyson�Chandler to a broken leg in their fourth game of the season. But they were the better team right from the tip. The Knicks made 12 of their first 14 shots and were ahead 30-15 after Anthonys 3-pointer with 2:36 remaining in the opening quarter. NOTES: There was a moment of silence before the game for Nelson Mandela, South Africas first black president, who died Thursday at 95. Commissioner David Stern called Mandela "one of the most powerful and inspirational leaders in the world and a great friend of the NBA." ... The Knicks will try to end their seven-game home skid Friday against Orlando. cheap jerseys cheap jerseys from china ' ' '

OTTAWA -- Ottawa goaltender Craig�Anderson is downplaying the impending battle between him and New York Rangers all-star netminder Henrik�Lundqvist. Dez Bryant Jersey Dallas Cowboys . "For the most part its me versus the shooters and not so much me against Henrik," said Anderson as his eighth-seed Senators prepare to take on the first-place Rangers starting with Game 1 on Thursday in New York. Game 2 is set for Saturday before heading to Ottawa on April 16th for Game 3. Lundqvist has posted career numbers this year and has ample playoff experience, having played 35 career post-season games. That doesnt intimidate Anderson. "We both have the same goal and thats to give our team a chance to win," said Anderson. "Guys maybe feed off each other when one makes a big save it kind of forces you to make a big save and it can kind of go back and forth, but thats really the only comparison you have during a game." Theres little doubt that if the Senators hope to compete with the Rangers they will need Anderson to be as good if not better than he was during the regular season, when he went 33-22-6 in 63 games. "Andys a key part to our team and hes going to play real well for us and their goalies going to play well," said Ottawa forward Jason�Spezza. "We anticipate a long series where theres going to be a lot of give and take." With just six playoff games Anderson has little experience in the post-season, but to his credit he has a 6-0-0 record with a 1.13 GAA and two shutouts in six career starts at Madison Square Garden. In his last appearance on January 12 he stopped all 34 shots in a 3-0 Senators win. "Every team Ive played on seems to have gone in that building and played really well," said Anderson. "Youre on the biggest stage in America, maybe even the world. Its Madison Square Garden, its New York, its where you want to be." With players looking for every possible edge when it comes to the post-season Anderson said its up to individuals to find their own personal motivation. "You have to feed off something and take the positives from the past and winning at MSG is definitely a positive and Ill take that," said Anderson. "Thats one thing I can feed off and maybe something the team can feed off knowing weve had success in that building." Like Anderson, Senators coach Paul MacLean believes players should take advantage of any edge available. "Some players play better in some buildings than others," said MacLean. "If you feel good playing in a place it certainly helps you when youre going in there that youve played well and have confidence." Notes: C Mika�Zibanejad was practising on the top line with Jason�Spezza and Milan�Michalek leading to suspicion that he could play during the series. Coach Paul MacLean admitted the plan is for Zibanejad to play two games with the AHLs Binghamton Senators this weekend, but they "wont be afraid" to use him later in the series. ... D Matt�Carkner missed practice for the second straight day with a lower body injury, but is expected to be able to rejoin the team Wednesday. C Jim�OBrien left practice early after taking a puck to the hand and will be re-evaluated, but MacLean didnt anticipate it being anything serious. Cole Beasley Jerseys . The Missouri Tigers Defensive End and SEC Defensive player of the year is eligible for the upcoming NFL draft in May. Dan Bailey Jerseys . It offers no assurances and doesnt apply any context, like, for example, taking injuries into account. Last year, this method forecasted the first round at a 7-1 clip; this year it was 5-3, with losses on Columbus, Colorado and San Jose. MINNEAPOLIS -- Kevin�Love had just finished carrying his Minnesota Timberwolves over .500 for the first time since Nov. 23, playing the entire second half and over 43 minutes to make it happen. So naturally, he hit the weight room after the game. Without his Bruise Brother Nikola�Pekovic by his side for at least another week, Love knows hes going to be tested like he rarely has before. Love had 30 points and 14 rebounds to help the Timberwolves grind out an 88-77 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday night. "I was a little upset with myself with some of the shots I took that I felt like I couldve made," said Love was of 11 of 26 and 1 for 6 on 3-pointers. "The ball didnt feel great tonight. Thats the way it goes sometimes. If I can do that and we can win without Pek, thats a good sign." Kevin�Martin added 18 points on 7-of-18 shooting and six boards for the Timberwolves (23-22) in their first game without Pekovic, who is expected to miss at least a week with bursitis in his right ankle. They still managed to get over .500 after failing in their previous 10 chances to do so. Al-Farouq�Aminu had 18 points and 12 rebounds for the Pelicans, who were missing star forward Anthony�Davis with a dislocated left index finger. They shot 35 per cent and managed a season-low 35 points in the first half to snap a three-game winning streak. Davis was injured in the victory over the Cavaliers on Tuesday night, but coach Monty�Williams said he was playing it safe with his franchise player and expected him to return on Saturday against Chicago. "He can knock down the mid-range shot down so a lot of their bigs were in the paint just helping and we had to go up against a big every time," said Pelicans guard Tyreke�Evans, who had 11 points on 4-for-15 shooting. "So it was pretty tough." In an ugly game for both teams, the Pelicans managed to hang around and trailed by five heading into the fourth. But Love, who played the entire second half, scored six straight points during an 8-0 burst to oopen the quarter and help the Wolves win for the fifth time in six games. Emmitt Smith Jerseys. "With Pek out, we really have to find a way to relieve the pressure off (Love), move him around and stuff," Wolves coach Rick Adelman said. "We know teams are going to come at him. ... So we have to find ways to figure it out." Both teams looked lost without their lynch pins in the paint in the first half. The Pelicans, who also are missing Jrue�Holiday and Ryan�Anderson, hovered around 25 per cent shooting for most of the first quarter and were still at 30 per cent late into the third quarter against a Wolves defence that has been among the worst in the league from a field goal percentage basis. Without Pekovic commanding double teams and bulling his way to the basket, the Wolves have had to focus more on the defensive end. That left Love to go to work on the offensive end, and he was more aggressive looking for his shot than he has been with the big fella next to him in the frontcourt. In his first game at home since he was voted in as an All-Star starter for the Western Conference, Love came out firing, taking nine shots and attacking the glass. And when point guard Ricky�Rubio went to the bench early in the third quarter with four fouls, Love started distributing more, picking up five assists to help the Wolves push back against the plucky Pelicans. "I know some of our guys are a bit overwhelmed with trying to play at a high level, but we had our chances," New Orleans coach Monty�Williams said. "This is when you have to step up and we just didnt do it tonight. That happens." NOTES: Eric�Gordon scored 14 on 5 for 17 shooting for New Orleans. ... Before the game started, Love grabbed the mic and thanked the Wolves fans for voting him as a starter in the All-Star game. He posted his NBA-leading 27th game with at least 20 points and 10 rebounds. ... Greg�Stiemsma started in place of Davis and finished with three points and 12 rebounds and has grabbed at least 10 boards in two straight games. cheap jerseys cheap jerseys from china ' ' '

NICE, France -- Second-seeded Gilles Simon of France and third-seeded Sam Querrey of the United States were eliminated in the quarterfinals of the Open de Nice on Thursday. Jerod Mayo Official . Spaniards Alberto Montanes and Pablo Andujar and Frenchmen Gael Monfils and Edouard Roger-Vasselin reached the last four. Wild-card entry Roger-Vasselin beat Querrey 3-6, 7-6 (2), 6-1. The Frenchman broke Querrey twice in the final set to lead 5-1 before converting his first match point with a forehand winner. Roger-Vasselin will next play clay-court specialist Montanes. The Spaniard beat Paul-Henri Mathieu of France 6-4, 6-1. A semifinalist at the Madrid Open earlier this month, Andujar stunned Simon 6-4, 7-5. The Spaniard hit a drop shot to break Simon at 4-4 in the opening set before rallying from a 4-1 deficit in the second. Andujar will meet Monfils, who ousted Robin Haase of the Netherlands 6-2, 6-3. A former top 10 player, Monfils won the last five games. The Frenchman has been bothered by a right knee injury last year, dropping to 109th in the rankings. The Open de Nice is a warm-up tournament for the French Open which starts Sunday. Tommy Kelly Official . Louis Blues just continue to roll -- especially against the Nashville Predators. Rob Gronkowski Jersey . Ramirez signed a minor league deal with the Cubs on Sunday and will be a player-coach at Triple-A Iowa after he gets some at-bats in extended spring training at the teams facility in Mesa, Arizona. The 41-year-old Ramirez is a .CLEVELAND - In a switch, Greg�Little was dropped by the Browns. The inconsistent wide receiver, whose flashes of excellence were often overshadowed by crucial drops and off-the-field drama, was released on Friday. The 24-year-old Little became expendable after Cleveland added veteran wide receivers Miles�Austin and Earl�Bennett to its roster on Thursday. Those moves were made for insurance in case Pro Bowl wide receiver Josh�Gordon is suspended by the league for failing another drug test for marijuana. Gordon was suspended for the first two games last season, but led the league with 1,646 yards receiving. Last week, Browns general manager Ray Farmer said he believed Little could improve. "The young mans talented," Farmer said during the NFL draft. "The question mark would then fall onto can he be consistent and do the things that he has physically demonstrated he can do at times. If he continues to do those things and add a level of consistency, the difference between being good and great is consistency. "When a guy shows you he can do anything, he shows you he can jump up and make the one-handed catch, he shows you he can break a tackle, the question then is can he repeatedly do that over and over again. Thats the difference between being average or marginal and good or great." Littles departure ends a sometimes turbulent three-year run for him in Cleveland. The Browns drafted Little, a former running back at North Carolina, in the second round in 2011. And while he produced � he led the team in receptions in 2011 and 2012 � the 6-foot-3, 225-pound Little let too many passes slip from his hands and he had his share of other non-football issues. Irving Fryar Patriots Jersey. Last season, Little vowed to act more responsibly after it was revealed that he crashed his car driving 127 mph � more than 70 mph over the legal speed limit. He called his actions "mindless." Little was cited for drag racing and he expressed remorse for putting his life, and the life of a passenger in his expensive car, in danger. Little was reprimanded by then-coach Rob Chudzinski, who did not reveal his punishment. Little joined the Browns with a history of questionable decision-making. He was issued 93 parking tickets on multiple vehicles with nine different license plates while he was at North Carolina. In November, the school sent a letter of "permanent disassociation" to Little and other former Tar Heels football players for his role in the program receiving NCAA violations that led to criminal charges against five people for violating the states sports agent law. Little and others were suspended in 2010 for accepting improper benefits, including cash and travel accommodations. Little acknowledged his actions distressed others. "Theres a lot of people that Ive hurt," he said, "and I think a lot of the blame should be put on me much less than attacking other people." Little was typically candid when speaking to the media and he seemed to be maturing as a person and player. In 41 starts over three seasons with the Browns, Little caught 155 passes for 1,821 yards and eight touchdowns. He had 41 catches for 465 yards and two TDs last season. ___ AP NFL website: www.pro32.ap.org and www.twitter.com/AP_NFL cheap jerseys cheap jerseys from china ' ' '

Michigan basketball star Nik Stauskas has yet to make a decision on his basketball future. Jared Abbrederis Jersey . ESPN.com reported Thursday morning that the Mississauga, ON,�native will declare himself eligible for the 2014 NBA Draft. Stauskas took to Twitter shortly after to deny the report. "Just wanted to reiterate that any reports about my future intentions are FALSE! I have NOT made ANY decisions on my future yet!" said Stauskas in a Tweet. The sophomore averaged 17.5 points per game this season and shot 44 per cent from three-point range. The Wolverines lost to Kentucky in the Elite Eight this year in the March Madness tournament. Fellow Canadians, Andrew Wiggins of Kansas and Tyler Ennis of Syracuse, have already declared themselves eligible for this years draft. Randall Cobb Jersey . Later, his catcher delivered the deciding stroke. Price struck out 10 in his Detroit debut and was long gone when Alex�Avila homered in the 12th inning to lift the Tigers over the New York Yankees 4-3 Tuesday night. Brad Jones Jersey . Heading into the final round with a two-stroke lead, Donald had seven birdies and two bogeys at the par-71 Phoenix Country Club to finish at 14-under 270 on the Japan Tour.COLOGNE, Germany -- Fabrizio Zanotti won a four-way playoff to take the BMW International Open title Sunday and become the first player from Paraguay to win on the European Tour. Zanotti won when No. 2-ranked Henrik�Stenson conceded after failing to make a bunker shot on the fifth playoff hole. Gregory Havret of France and Rafa Cabrera-Bello of Spain went out on the second and fourth, respectively. The 31-year-old Zanotti earlier made seven birdies for a 7-under 65 final round to finish on 19-under 269 on the Gut Laerchenhof course. It was his second successive 65 after rounds of 72 and then 67. Stenson came close to snatching victory before the playoff but had to be content with par on the last hole. The Swede made up for two bogeys with five birdies and an eagle. He came agonizingly close to ending the playoff at the first hole. Cabrera-Bello earned his playoff place with a birdie-eaagle-birdie finish. Reggie White Jersey. He almost made an eagle to end the playoff at the third hole as the rain began falling. Overnight leader Pablo Larrazabal, who held a three-stroke advantage, could only finish tied for eighth on 17 under after two bogeys - the Spaniards first missed shots of the week - and two birdies gave him a final round of 72. Thongchai�Jaidee of Thailand, Simon Dyson of England and Welshman Jamie Donaldson finished tied for fifth on 18 under, ahead of former champions Larrazabal (2011), Danny Willett (2012), Thomas�Bjorn (2000 and 2002) and Argentinas Emiliano Grillo. Spains Sergio�Garcia, Irelands Shane Lowry, Englands Paul Waring and Alex�Cejka - the highest placed German - were in a group of 10 players tied for 12th. James Heath scored a hole in one on the 16th hole to win a sports car. The Englishman finished 11-under 277 overall. cheap jerseys cheap jerseys from china ' ' '

SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. Cliff Avril Jerseys . -- Sam Slaughter homered twice and drove in six runs to help Nashville, Tennessee, beat Canada 12-9 in a consolation game Tuesday at the Little League World Series. The catcher hit three-run homers in the first and fifth innings, while third baseman Blake Money hit a solo shot in the fifth. Canada scored five runs in the sixth inning, but the Vancouver teams comeback attempt came up short. Both teams Little League World Series runs came to an end, as they were eliminated from contention last Saturday. Michael Bowie . Wright sat out games on Tuesday and Wednesday after learning he broke his finger diving back to a base Monday night. He was examined by a hand specialist for the second straight day Thursday. James Carpenter. -- The Baltimore Ravens have agreed to terms with former St.ATLANTA -- Jeff�Teague was in no mood to talk after the Atlanta Hawks missed a chance to win their third straight game. "There was a letdown," he said. "We lost. We shouldve taken care of business." Rodney�Stuckey scored 29 points, Greg�Monroe and Andre�Drummond each had a double-double and the Detroit Pistons snapped a 10-game skid in Atlanta with a 102-95 victory over the Hawks on Tuesday night. Atlanta has five games left in the regular season and a 1 1/2-game advantage over New York for the eighth and final Eastern Conference playoff spot. Paul�Millsap had 24 points and 12 rebounds for the Hawks. Monroe finished with 21 points and 13 rebounds and Drummond had 19 points and 17 rebounds for the Pistons, who were eliminated from playoff contention when the Hawks won Sunday at Indiana. Detroit has won two straight after dropping five of six. Drummond has 53 double-doubles, most in the Eastern Conference this season. Monroe has 34. Atlanta trailed by three when Drummond blocked Millsaps jumper in the lane and tipped in Kyle�Singlers missed fast-break layup to put the Pistons up 96-91 with 1:36 remaining. "Theyre just big on the inside," said Teague, who finished with 15 points and nine assists. "Theyre athletes, and its going to be tough to get layups. Weve just got to make our shots. We had some open looks." The Pistons were up by 13 twice in the second quarter, the latter coming on Peyton�Sivas 3-pointer at the 8:47 mark, but Atlanta cut the lead to four on Kyle�Korvers 3 in the final minute of the period. Detroit played without leading scorer Josh�Smith, who was sidelined by patella tendinitis in his left knee. Stuckey replaced the former Atlanta star in the starting lineup and had 15 points in the first half. Korver overcame a turnover midway through the third bby hitting a 3 on Atlantas ensuing possession to force a 67-all tie. Anthony McCoy Jersey Seattle Seahawks. The Hawks took their first lead of the game on their next possession as DeMarre�Carroll took on outlet pass from Teague and hit a fast-break layup at the 6:24 mark. But after three more lead changes, Detroit began the fourth ahead 81-78 and never trailed again as the Hawks failed to keep Monroe and Drummond from dominating in the paint. The Pistons outscored Atlanta 26-9 in second-chance points. "We just kept playing," Monroe said. "I just think we did what we needed to come back and take control of the game. Teams are always going make runs in this league. We took our hit and we came back." Atlanta gets another chance to pad its lead over New York on Wednesday when Boston visits Philips Arena. The Knicks next game is Friday at Toronto. "We were hoping to build off the (Indiana) game when we came out very focused and on fire with attention to detail," Korver said. "Tonight, especially on the defensive end, we werent very sharp. They had 35 in the first quarter." NOTES: The game was originally scheduled for Jan. 29, but was postponed because of a snowstorm. ... Smith missed his first game since signing a four-year, $54 million contract as a free agent. He has started 76 of 77 games. ... Detroit won in Atlanta for the first time since Feb. 12, 2008. ... The Hawks missed 26 of 35 attempts beyond the arc. ... Stuckey, who made his second start in 70 games, gave the Pistons their first double-digit lead by hitting a 3 to make it 40-29 with 10:20 left in the second. ... Hawks reserve G Lou Williams was in uniform, but he sat out for a second straight with a sore left hamstring. ... The Hawks dropped to 22-16 at home. ... Detroit improved to 13-27 on the road. ... John Loyer improved to 8-20 as Detroits interim coach. cheap jerseys cheap jerseys from china ' ' '

Imagine if the Toronto Maple Leafs lineup included the likes of Steven Stamkos, Drew Doughty, Rick Nash, Alex Pietrangelo, Jeff Carter, Matt Duchene, Corey Perry, Mike Smith and John Tavares. Joe DiMaggio Yankees Jersey . Do you think the Leafs would be perennial Stanley Cup contenders? Now imagine if that team also contained the likes of Patrick Kane, Eric Staal, Mike Richards, Bobby Ryan, Marc Staal, James Neal, Jordan Staal, Logan Couture, Taylor Hall, Tyler Seguin, Jeff Skinner, Gabriel Landeskog and Alex Galchenyuk. How do you like their chances now? Before anyone jumps in and shouts, "But theyd never get those guys under the salary cap!" let me explain. Every single one of those players is a product of the Ontario Hockey League. What if the Toronto Maple Leafs had actually created the Ontario Hockey League. What if they had started the league from scratch and picked up the cost through its early years of development? And what if, because they created the OHL, they now have the first option on every player in the league? You see where Im going with this? What if Toronto FC did the same thing for youth soccer in Ontario. What if they created a high performance development league that harnessed the bottomless pit of potential that currently exists among the 300,000-plus soccer players in the province? Even better: What if they created an entire development system for kids as young as eight, ensuring that they got the best football education imaginable? What do you think that would do for their long-term success as a professional club? What if Toronto FC turned its Club Affiliate Program into such a development system? Its goal would be to produce a continual stream of talented young players for its academy, and ultimately, for its first team. Do you think they would be perennial MLS Cup contenders? Here is how I would set it up: ��Expand the Club Affiliate Program to 20 clubs, ensuring that there is geographical representation across the major areas of the province. ��Hire qualified, professional coaches to work with players between the ages of eight to 16, implementing a periodized training curriculum to ensure that the focus is on mastering technical skills. Allow players to come into the program at any age, focusing resources on the most promising young players (20 per age group per club). ��Remove the 20 clubs from the current competitive system in Ontario, ensuring that they play regularly scheduled games against other CAP organizations. ��At the top of the development system, create the equivalent of the OHL - a high performance league for players between the ages of 15-20 - where the best players from the 20 clubs would compete against each other on a weekly basis. ��Pick up the entire cost for every player at every club. The last point is especially important. One of the major challenges that is faced when developing young soccer players in Canada is that our system of player development is pay-for-play. What that means is that the end user (the player) carries the full cost of their development. This system often sees players participating in sub-optimal development programs, and also restricts talented players whose parents cannot afford the cost of the best development programs - which can cost anywhere from $2,000-$5,000 per year. So what would it actually cost Toronto FC to make soccer free for every participant in its CAP program? If TFC had 20 clubs in its Club Affiliate Program, with 20 players per club, that would be 400 players per age group. If such a program ran from U8 - U15 (with the OHL-equivalent league sitting on top of those age groups), there would be nine age categories. That is 3,600 players, from the age of eight onwards. Conservatively, a program such as this one could be run for as little as $3,000 per player, annually. That is just over $10 million per year. Not very much for a club that just spent close to $100 million to sign two players, is it? Im not arguing against the signings that TFC just made - in fact, I think that the club needed to sign Jermain Defoe and Michael Bradley, not least of which to give the fans a reason to care again. But while the club will be hoping that their off-season moves will quickly turn them into an MLS contender, their long-term success can come through developing the countless talented youngsters currently playing the game across the province, rather than through hiring expensive foreign professionals. Joe Girardi Yankees Jersey .C. - The New Orleans Saints will have to wait another week for a chance to clinch a playoff spot. Mark Teixeira Yankees Jersey . He didnt even match his first-half total from Friday night. He didnt have to, with the Knicks offering him plenty of support for a change.ORLANDO, Fla. -- One thing has remained consistent about Magic coach Jacque�Vaughn whenever he is asked how he gauges improvement for his team. Its day to day and game by game, he says. Well, he can count Wednesday as one of the good days. Nik Vucevic had 21 points and 16 rebounds as the Orlando Magic beat the Philadelphia 76ers 105-94 to post back-to-back wins for the first time since early this month. "We needed it," Vaughn said. "We were all over the place...Just a lot of guys who were getting into the game who were ready to play and were playing unselfishly on both ends. "We need guys and were gonna continue to need guys throughout the course of the year," he said. Glen�Davis added 19 points, and Arron�Afflalo and Victor�Oladipo each finished with 18. The Magic led by 15 points before fighting off several second-half surges by the Sixers, which they beat for 17th time in 20 meetings. The game was the first meeting between rookies Michael�Carter-Williams and Oladipo, and both played big roles. Oladipo registered a season-high 42 minutes. Though both had their highlights, it was how Orlando played together down the stretch that stuck out more. The Magic saw their double-digit, first-half lead dwindled down to a point early in the third quarter. It was 85-83 when Afflalos three-point play gave Orlando a little breathing room with 6:49 to play in the game. The 76ers kept coming before Afflalo struck again and turned a Philadelphia turnover into a layup that made it 93-87. That was followed a few possessions later by a 3-pointer by Oladipo that put the Magic up 98-89 with three minutes remaining and ended the threat. "We had a pretty impressive win (Tuesday) night (at Atlanta)," Afflalo said. "We hadnt had the best track record of backing up good victories with solid, back-to-back victories on back-to-back nights. It got a little ugly there in the second and third quarters, but we showed a little mental toughness and got us a good victory." Thaddeus�Young led Philadelphia with 26 points and Carter-Williams added 23. It was Youngs first game in a week after missing three games while dealing with a death in his family. "They did a good job tonight of keeping the lead," Young said. "Once they got it, wed make a run to take the lead and they would (answer with) five or six points. They just kept their foot on the ggas and kept moving. Joe Girardi Jersey. " 76ers coach Brett Brown said the plan going forward was to ease him back into things slowly following his absence. Young didnt start, but entered the game for the first time at the 7:42 mark of the first quarter and immediately started to make an impact. "I didnt want to start him; I didnt know how long I was going to play him," Brown said. "You just go by gut feeling and judgment, and it was clear right from the get-go that he had bounce, he had energy, he wanted to play. He was good. So he ended up with (29) minutes, which I would not have guessed at the start of the game." The 76ers have now lost two straight and six of seven. Despite the victory, the Magic continued to deal with the injuries on Wednesday. Point guard Jameer�Nelson left the game in the second quarter and did not return after limping off with a sprained left foot. Also, after making his season debut Sunday against Phoenix, Magic forward Tobias�Harris sat out his second straight game with soreness in his left ankle. Harris was supposed to make his first start of the season against Atlanta Tuesday night, but was scratched just before tip-off. The ankle has now kept him out of 14 of the Magics 15 games this season. It was 55-50 at halftime as the Magic -- riding Vucevics 17 points and 10 rebounds -- dominated the first 21 minutes of the first half and built a 15-point lead. He went right at Philadelphias Daniel�Orton, and hit his first eight shots of the night. It nearly evaporated in the final three minutes of the half, though, as the Sixers closed with a 10-0 run that included eight points by Young. Vucevic said he hopes the win will help the Magic to begin to play with a lot more consistency. "We made improvements, but weve still got a ways to go," he said. "We cant have streaks when we lose four or five games in a row. Its hard to make up for those. So we gotta try to be more consistent. We cant win every game ... but we gotta try to play the way we played the last two games." NOTES: Referee Tre Maddox left the game in the first quarter with an ankle injury. ... Davis made his second start of the season and appeared in his fourth game of the year since missing the first 11 games of the season with a broken bone in his left foot. ... Sixers F Spencer�Hawes missed his second straight game with soreness in his left knee. cheap jerseys cheap jerseys from china ' ' '

TORONTO -- The Toronto Blue Jays have signed four more of their selections from the 2011 draft, including second-rounder Jeremy Gabryszwski. Tavon Wilson Kids Jersey . The team now has 23 prospects under contract from the recent draft. Also agreeing to terms Wednesday were shortstop Andy Burns (11th round), shortstop Peter Mooney (21st round) and shortstop Justin Atkinson, a 26th-round pick from Surrey, B.C. Gabryszwski is a right-handed pitcher that was taken 78th overall. Steve Grogan Kids Jersey . For Kyle�Lowry, its become an accepted reality. He will be traded. The question is, when and where? The Raptors point guard is widely believed to be next on general manager Masai Ujiris chopping block after the first domino - Rudy�Gay, Lowrys best friend - fell last week. Stephen Gostkowski Jersey .com) - The Edmonton Oilers have made Nail�Yakupov a healthy scratch for the second straight game for tonights game against the Washington Capitals.BALTIMORE -- The Orioles have obtained outfielder David�Lough from the Kansas City Royals for infielder Danny�Valencia. As a rookie this year, the 27-year-old Lough batted .286 with five homers and 33 RBIs in 96 games. He played all three outfield positions. He was originally selected by the Royals in the 11th round of the 2007 amateur draft. He made his major league debut in 22012, playing 20 games and batting . Shane Vereen Red Jersey. 237. Valencia hit .304 in 170 plate appearances for Baltimore. He bounced between the big league team and the minor leagues for much of the season. Valencias .553 slugging percentage was the fifth-highest in the AL among players with at least 150 at-bats. He batted .371 with 14 doubles and four homers against left-handers. cheap jerseys cheap jerseys from china ' ' '

1. Jimmy Smith Ravens Jersey . JORDAN�CRAWFORD (Warriors): The Golden State Warriors have reportedly acquired guards Jordan�Crawford and MarShon�Brooks from the Boston Celtics Wednesday as part of a three-team trade. Golden State is sending guard Toney�Douglas to the third team in the trade, the Miami Heat, who will ship center Joel�Anthony to the Celtics, according to multiple sources. Crawford has done a nice job in Boston with his play-making. Led the Celtics with close to six assists per game and scoring close to 14 ppg. Things didnt work out with the Wizards and GM Danny Ainge gave him a shot and hes an improved player. Still forces a few too many shots for my taste, yet when I watch him I see a guard that starting to figure things out gradually. 2. KYLE�LOWRY & DEMAR�DEROZAN (Raptors): Lots of discussion of late about the all-star game. I wont lie - Im bias. I see these guys perform all the time and have watched their improvement; maturity and games evolve and would be thrilled if both made it. Theyve been a huge part of the turnaround and winning players deserve recognition. It will likely be tough for both to make it, yet if the Raptors can continue to win games (and that really helps open eyes of coaches when they pick the reserves), their chances increase. Keep it going and make it a tough decision for folks by leading your team to victories. 3. OKC THUNDER (5-4 without Russell�Westbrook): Kevin�Durant has been nothing short of brilliant trying to keep his team afloat. Hes even said that hes shooting too much. Theyve become a very predictable and defendable team without the dynamic point guard which is no big surprise. You lose a guy of that caliber and youre going to struggle. Does GM Sam Presti sit tight and wait this turbulence out or do they try to make a move to help this teams scoring punch? Dont want to be in a position that youre without home court advantage in the second round in the very difficult Western Conference playoffs. Some deep thinking and soul searching for them as they ponder winning now vs. internal growth and patience. Good test. 4. GIANNIS�ANTETOKOUNMPO (Bucks): Caught him in person for the second time on Monday night in Toronto. He fascinates me. Only 19-years old. Milwaukee took a flyer on him in the first round and Ive gotta tell you, I see why. Its not about now but when hes 22-23 years old and the game starts to come naturally to him and he figures it all out. Obviously, he needs major upgrades with his strength and stamina and that will come. Hes long, athletic and has decent skills. Definitely a guy to keep an eye on the next few years as he matures. 5. MARCO�BELINELLI (Spurs): Having a wonderful year shooting the ball at 50 per cent from three-point range (tops in the NBA). Great system for him to play in and hes always been a guy that I liked since his days in Golden State. Good passer and better defender than he looks. Hes tough and loves to compete. His short stint was a major disappointment in Toronto due to injuries and conditioning but in Chicago and now San Antonio hes gotten it together. Its amazing - the Spurs always come up with guys that make complete sense to their philosophy. He fits. Matt Elam Authentic Jersey . The Indians scored twice in the top of the ninth, getting the go-ahead run on a wild pitch by closer Matt�Lindstrom. Axford (0-1) came in seeking his fifth save in as many chances. Jonathan Ogden Authentic Jersey . As Valanciunas was whistled for a rare technical toward the end of the third quarter - a result of waving his hand at an official after being called for a foul - Lowry pulled the Raptors sophomore aside, corralling him by his jersey and patting him on the back.WASHINGTON -- For the second time in three days, Alex�Ovechkin scored his NHL-leading 39th goal late against the Detroit Red Wings. This one wont be taken away. Ovechkins one-timer from the left circle on a power play 2:37 into overtime gave the Capitals a 6-5 win Sunday over the Red Wings, earning a split of a home-and-home set and tightening up things even more in the bottlenecked bottom half of the Eastern Conference. Ovechkin was originally credited with the goal that tied the score with 7 seconds left in regulation on Friday in Detroit -- a game the Red Wings eventually won in a shootout. The NHL has since reviewed the play and decided it instead belongs to Joel�Ward on a deflection. Ward kept it up Sunday, getting two goals and an assist as he again benefited from the extra attention paid to Ovechkin, particularly on the power play. In overtime, however, the power play is 4-on-3, and that left plenty of space for the Russian Olympian to drive home the game-winner after Brendan�Smith was sent off for tripping. "I was pretty much open," Ovechkin said. "Sometimes its kind of boring when they put one guy close to you and youre basically out of the game, but Wardo and everybody do a great job." Jason�Chimera, John�Carlson and Troy�Brouwer also scored for the Capitals, who got a touchdowns worth of goals in their fifth consecutive Super Bowl Sunday home matinee. Michal�Neuvirth made 25 saves. The Capitals and Red Wings are bunched in a six-team pack in which two points separate eighth place from 13th place in the East. Washington had lost seven of nine and three in a row at home. "Itll go right down to the end," Washington coach Adam�Oates said. "Thats why youve got to get as healthy as you can. Torrey Smith Ravens Jersey. Every point matters. Hopefully your wave will come, and itll come at the right time." Ward has 17 goals, matching his career high for a season and making him the unlikely No. 2 scorer on the Capitals. "I definitely know Ive got a role on this team, and thats obviously to try to chip in as much as I can," Ward said. "But by no means Im not trying to be no superhero or Batman. Im just trying to help the team win." Gustav�Nyquist had his first career hat trick and added an assist, and Tomas�Tatar and Justin�Abdelkader also scored for the Red Wings, who at least managed to end a long scoring drought away from home. Jimmy�Howard stopped 22 shots. Nyquists goal at 11:40 of the first period ended the Detroits road scoreless run at 194:14. The Red Wings had been shut out for three consecutive away games, a streak equaled in franchise history only by the 1927-28 Detroit Cougars. It was one of those games where a trip to the concession stand was a risky proposition. The first period included three power-play goals in just 53 seconds of man-advantage time. In the second period, Tatar and Ward scored 19 seconds apart. Nyquist finished his hat trick just 42 seconds into the third period. "It was an old-fashioned pond hockey game out there," Howard said. "Every once in a while those games happen. The only thing weve got to take out of this is we found a way to get a point, and a lot of guys played well." Notes: Capitals D Mike�Green missed his second consecutive game. He has been evaluated for concussion-like symptoms since getting hurt against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Thursday. ... Capitals F Brooks�Laich sat out with a lower-body injury. cheap jerseys cheap jerseys from china ' ' '

The Canadiens havent racked up many goals over their losing streak, but scoring wasnt an issue the last time they faced the Wild. cheap jerseys . Montreal hopes to avoid matching its longest losing streak of the season tonight as it hosts equally-struggling Minnesota. You can listen to the game live at 7pm et on TSN Radio 990 at TSN.ca/Montreal. It will mark the first home game for forward Blake�Geoffrion, who will wear the bleu, blanc et rouge beneath the banners for the retired numbers of his great-grandfather Howie Morenz and grandfather Bernie (Boom Boom) Geoffrion. Blake chose to wear No. 57 in his first game with the team on Tuesday, paying homage to Boom Booms No. 5 and Morenzs No. 7. "Its an honour to wear the Geoffrion name on the back and to be a part of this family and the tradition here," Geoffrion told reporters on Wednesday. "Pressure comes along with that but Im my own player. Ill just play as hard as I can." The Canadiens have dropped five straight in regulation and sit last in the Eastern Conference with 58 points. They have been outscored 16-5 over their current slide and are in danger of matching the season-worst 0-4-2 drought posted back on Oct. 13-24. David�Desharnais scored the lone Montreal goal in a 2-1 setback to hosting Tampa Bay on Tuesday. Carey�Price made 20 saves but was outdueled by Mathieu�Garons 23 stops for the Lightning. "I think we had a couple of late shifts that hemmed them up into their own zone and we had some opportunities, but thats the way it goes sometimes," Canadiens head coach Randy Cunneyworth said. "You have to credit their goaltender. He played a very good game." Montreal has won three of its past four versus Minnesota, including an 8-1 road victory in the lone meeting between the clubs last season. That seven- goal triumph featured the first hat trick of Montreal defenseman P.K.�Subbans career and he also added an assist. The Wild are 2-2-0 with a tie all-time at home versus the Canadiens and come into this game with their own offensive issues. Tuesdays 4-0 loss to the Kings marked their ninth defeat in 12 games and Minnesota has been held to one goal or less in eight of their past 13. Minnesota was shut out in its first game since trading steady defenseman and the franchises all-time leader in games played, Nick�Schultz, to Edmonton for the more offensive-minded blueliner Tom�Gilbert. "It was nice. The first period I was trying to get my feet under me," said Gilbert, a Minnesota native. "I wish we had scored a couple more goals, but it was a good experience." Los Angeles jumped on Minnesota for three goals in the first period on Tuesday and Wild goaltender Niklas�Backstrom came up with just 15 saves. "We didnt create any breaks because we didnt deserve any and earn any. It was another game where we started on our heels. They took it to us and we didnt fight back," said Wild forward Kyle�Brodziak. Minnesota had won three of four coming in, but sit six points back of the Stars for the eighth spot in the West. cheap jerseys from china . The 25-year-old Japanese star has officially been posted by his club team, the Rakuten Golden Eagles. jerseys nfl cheap authentic .�Louis is going to get a chance to represent his country at the Winter Olympics after all. BALTIMORE -- Paul Blair, the eight-time Gold Glove centre fielder who helped the Baltimore Orioles win a pair of World Series titles while gliding to make catches that former teammates still marvel at more than four decades later, has died. He was 69. Blair died Thursday night at Sinai Hospital of Baltimore, according to a hospital spokeswoman. Blairs wife, Gloria, told The Baltimore Sun, that Blair played a round of golf with friends Thursday morning and later lost consciousness at a celebrity bowling tournament in Pikesville. "Paul was honestly too tired, but he never says no," Gloria Blair told the newspaper. "During a practice round, he threw two or three balls, then sat down and told a friend, I feel funny and kind of collapsed. He lost consciousness and they called 911 and the ambulance took him to (Sinai), but the doctors there told me they never got a pulse." A member of the Orioles Hall of Fame, the popular Blair patrolled the outfield from 1964-76, playing key parts when Baltimore won its first two World Series crowns in 1966 and 1970. He won two more titles with the New York Yankees in 1977 and 1978 and also played for Cincinnati. In an era before highlight reels were a daily staple on TV, Blair frequently made catches that became the talk of baseball. Thin and quick, he played with a flair -- at the end of an inning, he would tuck his glove up against his chest for a regal trot back to the dugout. "He played very shallow. People talked about how Willie Mays played shallow, and Paul did the same thing. He played with assuredness," Don Buford, an All-Star left fielder who played alongside Blair for five seasons in Baltimore, told The Associated Press late Thursday night. "When you talk about the greatest defensive centre fielders, he was right in the mix," Buford said. "With me in left and Frank Robinson in right, we played toward the lines and gave him a lot of room. He could really go get it." In 17 seasons in the majors, he hit .250 with 134 home runs, 620 RBIs and 171 stolen bases. Blair appeared in six World Series, two AAll-Star games and won Gold Gloves in 1967 and 1969-75. nfl jerseys china. In the 1966 World Series, Blair homered for the only run in Baltimores Game 3 victory over Los Angeles. The underdog Orioles completed an unlikely sweep the next day, with Blair jumping high above the fence at Memorial Stadium to snare Jim Lefebvres bid for a tying home run in the eighth inning. It was a timely grab, too -- Blair had just been inserted in the game as a defensive replacement. Blair caught a routine fly by Lou Johnson with two runners on base for the final out in a 1-0 victory in Game 4, and leaped high in the air after the clinching grab to begin Baltimores celebration. Blair led the Orioles in the 1970 World Series with a .474 average in Baltimores five-game victory over Cincinnati. That year, he hit three home runs and had six RBIs in a game against the Chicago White Sox. Beaned by a pitch in late May that season, Blair came back from the injury to boost the Birds. Ever mindful of being hit in the face, he would shield his face at first base when retreating to the bag on pickoff throws. "It affected his hitting a little bit after that, but not his fielding," Buford said. Inducted into the Orioles Hall of Fame in 1984, Blair coached Fordham in 1983 and at Coppin State from 1998-2002. He had a heart attack in December 2009. Blair played baseball and basketball and ran track at Manual Arts High School in Los Angeles. Blair was originally drafted by the New York Mets and spent one season in their minor league system. The Orioles drafted him from the Mets in late 1962. He fit neatly into a team built on strong defence -- led by third baseman Brooks Robinson -- and pitching, and Baltimore reached the World Series four times in six years. He was surrounded by stars, yet a picture or drawing of Blair often made the cover of the Orioles game programs. Friendly in the clubhouse, he was called "Motormouth" for his constant banter. "Hed be talking about something, and maybe youd get two words in, and then hed be off starting another conversation," Buford recalled. cheap jerseys cheap jerseys from china ' ' '

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. Nike Free 5.0 Orange/White Womens V4 Running Shoes UK . -- Patriots nose tackle Vince�Wilfork says hes closer to achieving his goal of finishing his career with New England. The 10-year veteran who missed most of last season with a torn Achilles tendon has tweeted that he looks forward to returning to football and helping his team have a chance to win a Super Bowl. Wilfork originally had balked at the Patriots attempt to restructure his contract to lessen the salary cap hit. He tweeted amid reports that he had agreed to restructure his contract. The Patriots usually do not announce contract restructurings. "Its been hard to remain quiet and let things take its course but it has been the best thing to do," Wilfork tweeted Thursday. "Negotiations are never easy especially when you have a 10 year history with a team and more importantly relationships. For those who have supported me I thank you, for those who have called me every name in the book I thank you too. "My intentions have never changed," he wrote. "10 years ago my goal was to retire a patriot and as I sit here typing this I am closer to achieving my goal. I look forward to getting back to football and helping my team compete and have a chance at winning a Super Bowl." At the bottom of the tweet was a reproduction of the top of a standard NFL Player Contract with his name and that of the New England Patriots. Nike Roshe Run Orange Gray Mens Slip-On Shoes UK . -- Packers cornerback Tramon�Williams has been fined $26,250 for contact with an official, per NFL guidelines. UK Nike Black Flowers Roshe Run Womens Pattern Shoes . The story of the scoreless first period was Hurricanes goaltender Cam�Ward, as the Jets outshot the Hurricanes 13-6 and had a number of grade �A� scoring chances, the best off the stick of Bryan�Little.With the NBA playoffs set to tip off this weekend, fans of the Toronto Raptors will be digging deep into their pockets to watch their team play in person. According to Forbes Magazine, the Raptors have raised their average ticket price by 242 per cent from $108 during the regular season to $370 for the first round. The average increase of the 16 playoff teams is 105 per cent. They also have the third-lowest number of tickets on the secondary tier, with just over 2,000 tickets available. Raptors fans have not seen a playoff game in Toronto since 2007-08 and the team has not advanced to the second round since the 2000-01 campaign. Camouflage Nike Roshe Run Mens Pattern Shoes . The Indiana Pacers have the second-highest markup on playoff tickets at 211 per cent while the Los Angeles Clippers have the second-most expensive tickets at just over $300 on average. The Miami Heat are the only team with no playoff premium, however they had the highest regular season ticket price average of $233. cheap jerseys cheap jerseys from china ' ' '

NEW YORK -- The New York Mets have put infielder Justin�Turner on the 15-day disabled list because of a sprained right ankle and cut right-handed reliever Manny�Acosta. Chris Harris Orange Jersey . The Mets recalled righty Chris�Schwinden from Triple-A Buffalo and selected the contract of infielder Omar�Quintanilla before Tuesday nights game. Quintanilla started at shortstop against Philadelphia. Turner was hurt during a rundown Monday. A key pinch hitter, he is hitting .269 with 10 RBIs and has played all four infield positions. Acosta was 1-2 with an 11.86 ERA in 19 games. The Mets designated him for assignment a day he gave up a game-breaking homer to Philadelphias Ty�Wigginton. Schwinden is 0-1 in two starts for New York, shuttling between the majors and minors as the Mets deal with injuries. "The bus from Buffalo arrived today, as it normally does," Mets general manager Sandy Alderson said. Rahim Moore Jersey . The Michigan lineman faces three assault charges stemming from an incident in December, according� to a report from ESPN. The report states Lewan is scheduled to be arraigned in April on one count of aggravated assault and two counts of assault or assault and battery. Derek Wolfe Blue Jersey. This week, topics cover if and when the Blue Jays should start rebuilding, how good catchers handle a pitching staff and how best to develop young pitchers to best avoid arm problems.BARCELONA, Spain -- Barcelona conceded a second goal to Getafe forward Angel Lafita in injury time to stumble to a deflating 2-2 draw at home on Saturday, dealing a major blow to its hopes of repeating as Spanish league champion. Lionel Messi volleyed in Dani Alves pass for his 28th league goal this season in the 23rd minute, only for Lafita to level after a rare attack for Getafe in the 37th. Substitute Cesc Fabregas appeared to put Barcelona back on track when he initiated a move that ended with Alexis Sanchez scoring in the 67th. But Barcelonas brittle defence again betrayed it in the final moments when Lafita charged in to head home Jaime Gavilans cross and grab a draw that silenced the Camp Nou. Out of the Champions League and Copa del Rey, Barcelonas chances of defending its domestic crown are fading fast. The Catalan club was left three points behind Atletico Madrid before the leader visits Levante on Sunday. There are two more rounds after this weekend. Real Madrid trails Atletico by six points but has a game in hand. Despite still being mathematically alive, Barcelona appears to have given up the title. "This hasnt been a good season, nor is this the way we wanted it to end," Barcelona coach Gerardo Martino said. "The responsibility lies with the manager. Our expectation was to stay in it as long as we could. We did so until today. If we havent been able to beat a team fighting to stay up, then we dont deserve to be champions." Barcelona has been sub-par in the second half of the season. After dropping just four points through the first 18 league games under Martino, it has dropped 18 points in the last 18 rounds. Martino, who is widely expected to be fired, added, "Sometimes you dont think its necessary to ask for a second chance because you dont deserve one." Elsewhere, Celta Vigo won 2-0 at Osasuna, Elche won 1-0 at Malaga, and Valladolid edged Espanyol 1-0 as it tries to escape the relegation zone. Barcelonas first home game since former coach Tito Vilanovas death last week from throat cancer ffeatured a commemorative video, an enormous banner with the message "Tito, Always Eternal," and a minutes silence before kickoff. DeMarcus Ware Blue Jersey. . Barring slipups by Atletico and Madrid, Barcelona wont win a major title for the first time since the 2007-08 season, before former coach Pep Guardiola took over with Vilanova as his assistant. Vilanova led the team to the league title last year in his only season as coach. Barcelona dominated the outclassed Getafe for the first 80 minutes, but its lack of scoring touch cost the host dearly. Lafita converted two of Getafes three scoring opportunities, while Pedro Rodriguez and Alexis were particularly off target for a Barcelona side that generated a plethora of empty shots. Barcelona midfielder Sergio Busquets said the players were the "only ones" to blame. "We have committed mistakes that are not befitting players who want to play in this league. We wont win any titles this year, and I hope that serves the team in years to come." Getafe rested one point above the relegation zone. In Pamplona, Manuel "Nolito" Agudo scored his third brace in as many games for Celta. He struck first in the 20th with an exquisite chip shot and followed that by driving in a cross from an angle in the 34th. Celta climbed into eighth place while Osasuna was left level on points with Valladolid and clinging to safety. Elche moved four points above the drop after winning at Malaga thanks to Garry Rodrigues goal in the 11th. Elche had two players shown direct red cards. Reserve goalkeeper Antonio Rodriguez was booked for coming off the bench to argue with Malagas players in the 68th, and defender Alberto Botia was sent off in the 82nd for kicking the ball into a prone Malaga player after a foul. Valladolid defender Antonio Rukavina scored in the 20th and Espanyol was never able to mount a comeback, with Luis "Pizzi" Afonso dismissed with a second yellow card in the 72nd. Valladolid striker Manucho injured his leg in the second half and had to carted off. cheap jerseys cheap jerseys from china ' ' '

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. cheap nfl jerseys . -- It was one of the most spectacular plays of a dreary season for the Detroit Pistons: Andre�Drummond knocked a pass away near midcourt, took off toward the basket and threw down an emphatic one-handed dunk while being fouled by Atlantas Elton�Brand. "I knew I didnt have a chance," Brand said. Drummonds dunk propelled the Pistons to a 115-107 win over the Hawks on Friday night that snapped Detroits three-game losing streak and handed Atlanta its eighth straight loss. The Hawks shot 17 of 20 from the field during a 41-point second quarter, but the Pistons rallied from an 11-point halftime deficit. "We came together at halftime. We asked each other if we really want this," Drummond said. "We looked each other in the eyes as men and we all came together and decided we wanted to do this. So we came out firing." Atlanta was without guard Jeff�Teague, who was out with a sprained ankle. Al�Horford was lost for the season in December with a torn pectoral muscle. Paul�Millsap had 23 points for the Hawks. "We had that huge second quarter, but they must have gotten a huge pep talk at halftime, because they really came out for the third with a lot of energy," Atlantas Kyle�Korver said. Drummonds dunk on Brand gave the Pistons a 93-88 lead with 10:00 to play. Brand was a good sport about it, smiling a bit and even appearing to look up at the scoreboard for a replay. Drummond finished 10 of 11 from the field, but the Hawks finally started fouling him intentionally. The Detroit big man finished 0 for 8 on free throws, and the Pistons eventually took him out for the final 3:40. "Obviously, were trying to get back into the game, and it helped," Hawks coach Mike Budenholzer said. "We didnt score every time that we tried it, but it gave us a chance. It also helps that hes a great young player and we got him off the floor for a couple minutes." It was tied at 104 when Detroits Kyle�Singler made a 3-pointer from the right wing, and Will�Bynum doubled the lead with a driving three-point play with 1:06 to go. A 3-pointer by Singler with 30 seconds left made it 113-106. Greg�Monroe had 22 points and 15 rebounds for the Pistons, who stood pat at the trade deadline Thursday. Detroit is now 2 1/2 games behind Atlanta and Charlotte, who are in a virtual tie for seventh place in the Eastern Conference. The Hawks looked unstoppable on offence in the second quarter, scoring at will while going the entire period without a turnover. But the Pistons outscored Atlanta 34-20 in the third. It wasnt a perfect second half by any means for Detroit, but the Pistons did show some urgency. Brandon�Jennings, who was having a poor shooting game for Detroit, was fouled twice while shooting 3-pointers. After Jennings missed badly from 3-point range, Josh�Smith blocked Millsap at the other end, and Jennings was waiting behind the defence for a layup that gave the Pistons an 82-79 lead. "We made two or three hustle plays that winning teams make," Detroit interim coach John Loyer said. "Two and three bodies on the floor, couple guys going out of bounds. You guys all watch the NBA. The better teams do that." Jennings finished with 12 points and 14 assists, although he didnt play at all in the fourth. Detroit went with Bynum instead, and he finished with nine points and seven assists. "Brandon is a scorer. Brandon has been a great facilitator for us," Loyer said. "He started to attack in the third quarter and Will came in and finished it. Thats what teammates do." NOTES: Atlanta shot 85 per cent in the second quarter, one of the top marks for one quarter in the NBA this season. Denver shot 87 per cent (13 for 15) in the fourth quarter at Toronto on Dec. 1, according to STATS. ... The Pistons outscored the Hawks 66-34 in the paint. ... Kyle�Korver was 2 for 4 from 3-point range, extending his NBA record to 123 consecutive games with a 3. nfl jerseys china .Y. -- Trevor Cooney and C. wholesale nfl jerseys . Gretzky was asked if he believes Montreal Canadiens defenceman PK Subban should be on Canadas blueline in February at the Sochi Olympics. "Im not going to get in the middle of that controversy because Stevie Yzerman obviously knows what hes doing, he won a gold medal in 2010," said Gretzky.The Triple Crown is made up of three races in three states that use three different sets of drug rules. A lawmaker is hoping the buzz from California Chromes run for the Triple Crown might build support for a bill that would place the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency in charge of drug testing at races nationwide. "Its an industry that has, for years, pledged to clean things up," said Rep. Joe Pitts of Pennsylvania, who sponsored the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act. "But things seem to be getting worse, not better." Pitts introduced the bill last spring, and since then, it has been in committees awaiting a chance to be voted on by the full House. Drug use is widely seen as the biggest problem facing horse racing today. A recent investigation by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals sparked an investigation into successful trainer Steve Asmussen for allegedly mistreating horses. A 2012 investigation by The New York Times found that 3,800 horses had tested positive for drugs, the large majority of which were for illegal levels of prescription drugs. Some critics of the current rules point out that the 38 states that operate horse tracks work under 38 distinct sets of rules. The National Thoroughbred Racing Association has adopted a set of uniform rules and is pushing state legislatures, racing commissions and other regulatory bodies to pass them in the individual states. So far, 19 states have passed or are considering a rule that would remove all controlled substances except for Lasix -- a diuretic known to improve horses performance -- from racing, and standardize testing for the other drugs. Eight states havve passed another rule that standardizes a penalty structure for trainers who violate drug rules.cheap jerseys from china. Horse racing is highly regulated by the states because it involves gambling. NTRA president Alex Waldrop says he hasnt spent much time analyzing the proposed national legislation, but the reality is that its very hard to pull rulemaking away from the states. "Its a very difficult balance were trying to strike here," Waldrop said. "Its about respecting every states interest and unique concerns. But were constantly pushing for greater uniformity through education and scientific research." The clumsy nature of the issue came into focus shortly after the Preakness, when California Chromes trainer had to get a waiver from track stewards at the Belmont to wear nasal strips, which were allowed in Kentucky and Maryland but not in New York. Though the nasal-strip issue turned out to be minor, USADA CEO Travis Tygart said those sorts of rules differences put horse racing in much the same position Olympic sports were in before they went for more standardized enforcement after the scandals of the 1990s. "The lack of uniformity and strict enforcement has created huge loopholes, where, if youre playing by the rules, youre at a competitive disadvantage," Tygart said. Dionne Benson, who helped write the uniform rules being proposed by the NTRA, said improving anti-doping measures will involve more than one national law. "Its not as easy as enacting a bill," she said. "Its unclear whether that bill would fully regulate in this area, or if wed just be adding another layer." cheap jerseys cheap jerseys from china' ' '

Brandon Isaac will join his fourth team in five years next season after signing with the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Adam Jones Jersey . Isaac, who split last season with the Toronto Argonauts and Hamilton Tiger-Cats, has also played for the Calgary Stampeders, where he began his CFL career in 2010. The 29-year-old linebacker has played in 60 regular season games, totalling 127 tackles, 12 sacks, and two interceptions. Isaac helped the Argos win the 100th Grey Cup in 2012. Nelson Cruz Authentic Jersey .J. -- The New York Giants are not only back in the playoff hunt with a four-game winning streak, theyre calling the plays that get them those wins. Chris Tillman Jersey . Barrichello is thrilled to be racing in front of his Brazilian fans for the first time since joining IndyCar, but admits he still is adapting to the series and wont be racing among the leaders on Sunday.LOS ANGELES -- Chris�Paul will be out of the Los Angeles Clippers lineup for up to six weeks with a separated right shoulder, but the All-Star point guard wont need surgery. The Clippers gave the prognosis Sunday after Paul had an MRI. Paul was injured in the third quarter of the Clippers game at Dallas on Friday when he tripped over guard Monta�Ellis. Paul is averaging 19.6 points, an NBA-best 11.2 assists and 4.6 rebounnds per game for the Pacific Division-leading Clippers, who lost to San Antonio on Saturday with Darren�Collison starting in his place. Eddie Murray Authentic Jersey. Collison scored 20 points against Dallas and had 14 against the Spurs. The Clippers waived point guard Maalik�Wayns on Sunday. Coach Doc Rivers had said he wasnt a viable option for replacing Paul. The Clippers open a four-game homestand Monday against Orlando. cheap jerseys cheap jerseys from china ' ' '

PITTSBURGH -- Chris�Davis had been searching since spring training for the power stroke that produced 53 home runs last season. Chipper Jones Braves Jersey . It reappeared in a big way Tuesday night as Davis hit three home runs, doubling his season total, and drove in five runs to lead the Baltimore Orioles to a 9-2 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates on Tuesday night. Davis hit a two-run blast during a four-run fifth inning off Francisco�Liriano (0-4) that put the Orioles ahead 6-1. He hit a solo shot in the seventh off Jared�Hughes and two-run homer in the ninth off Jeanmar�Gomez. It was Davis second career three-homer game - the other came on Aug. 24, 2012 against Toronto - and seventh multi-homer game. After leading the major leagues and setting a franchise record for homers last season, Davis hit three in his first 30 games. Davis was on the disabled list with a strained left oblique from April 26-May 11, an injury that had sapped his power. His frustration reached a boiling point Sunday when he went 0-for-4 in a loss to the Royals at Kansas City. "I felt like I just had some good pitches to hit and I rolled over everything, so I got here early today and worked on some stuff in early (batting practice)," said Davis, who also singled in the fourth inning. "It just sometimes clicks for you and today was one of those days." "Even in spring training, there were some at-bats where I would feel good and have good results, but I just didnt feel like I was right and then obviously with the injury, missing some time coming back, my timing was all screwed up." Nelson�Cruz also homered, following Davis shot in the fifth, to give the Orioles their second set of back-to-back homers of the season. Adam�Jones had two hits to extend his hitting streak to 14 games. Miguel�Gonzalez (2-3) pitched six innings for Baltimore, allowing two runs and seven hits with seven strikeouts and no walks. "It was a great night to be out there as a pitcher," Gonzalez said. "A lot of run support and a lot of great defence." Liriano (0-4) allowed six runs and nine hits in five innings for Pittsburgh and is now winless in 13 consecutive regular-season starts since last Sept. 10 at Texas. "I was leaving too many pitches over the middle of the plate," Liriano said. "I was missing my spots a lot and I couldnt repeat two good pitches in a row. I wasnt executing my pitches with men on base and the bases empty." Ike�Davis homered for the Pirates, his second in 27 games since being acquired from the New York in a trade on April 18, in the seventh inning. Neil�Walker and Andrew�McCutchen had two hits each. Baltimore won for third time in nine games while Pittsburgh lost for the sixth time in eight games. NOTES: Orioles RHP Dylan�Bundy threw 18 pitches in an extended spring training game Tuesday at Sarasota, Florida, the first time the organizations top prospect had faced hitters from another organization since undergoing Tommy John elbow reconstruction surgery last June. ... Baltimore C Matt�Wieters, on the disabled list with a strained right elbow, said he is feeling considerably better after having a platelet-rich plasma injection last week and should be activated long before the projected date of July 1. ... Pirates LF Starling�Marte returned to the lineup after a strained left hamstring forced him to leave the second game of Sundays doubleheader against the Yankees at New York and went 0-for-4. ... The Orioles are 18-9 in night games but 6-11 in the day. ... The two-game series concludes on Wednesday night with Baltimore RHP Chris�Tillman (4-2, 3.34) facing Pittsburgh LHP Wandy�Rodriguez (0-2, 6.84). Julio Teheran Authentic Jersey . The Oilers have the third selection in Friday nights first round, a year after taking Darnell�Nurse seventh and two years removed from a streak of three consecutive No. B.J. Upton Jersey . The Desert Foxes took part in the 2010 World Cup and failed to advance past the group stage, and the African side figures to have a tough time reaching the last 16 this time around as well. Belgiums last appearance on the big stage was the 2002 tournament when the team reached the second round before bowing out to eventual champions Brazil.CHICAGO -- The way everything was crumbling, the Chicago Bulls sure needed a reprieve. Knocking off the defending champions was a nice one. Carlos�Boozer scored 27 points, and the Bulls pounded LeBron�James and the Miami Heat 107-87 on Thursday night. Luol�Deng had 20 points, Taj�Gibson chipped in with 19, and Joakim�Noah added 17 points and 15 rebounds as the Bulls had no trouble taking out the Southeast Division leaders. Chicago took control early on and hung on down the stretch after watching a 25-point lead in the third quarter dwindle to 12 late in the game. It was an impressive showing by a team that had dropped six of seven and is once again trying to get by without the injured Derrick�Rose. "Our team needed it," Noah said. "We went through a lot the past couple of weeks. Its really hard to play without Derrick. I want to win with Derrick�Rose." The Bulls shot 50 per cent and were 10 for 19 on 3-pointers -- four by Deng and three by Kirk�Hinrich, who scored 13. They also outrebounded Miami 49-27. James scored 21 points for Miami, but the Heat shot a season low for the second straight game, converting 41.6 per cent from the field after hitting 43.9 per cent in Tuesdays loss to Detroit. "We cant just brush this loss aside," coach Erik Spoelstra said. "We have to really own it, to understand what happened. They just got whatever they wanted, right in the paint, at the rim and if they missed those, then theyre just beating us up at the glass." It didnt help that Dwyane�Wade stayed back at the hotel with an illness after sitting out the previous game because of knee soreness. Chris�Andersen missed this one for personal reasons, but the Heat will get no sympathy from Chicago. After all, the Bulls lost Rose to a torn meniscus in his right knee in a game at Portland on Nov. 22, and although the former MVP left the door slightly open for a playoff return earlier in the day, the team has ruled him out for the rest of the season. "We really got snake-bitten," Gibson said. Evan Gattis Jersey. . "When that happened to Derrick, that was really like, Wow. Were a family in here. When that stuff kind of happens, it was just ... tough. We were on the road, odds were against us." And as if that six-game trip wasnt difficult enough, there was a triple-overtime loss to New Orleans on Monday in their first game back at the United Center. The Bulls did just fine on Thursday, although things got a little tight down the stretch. Miami cut it to 93-81 on Norris�Coles runner with 5:38 remaining. But Gibson answered with a jumper and blocked a layup by Udonis�Haslem. Deng made a 3 with just under four minutes left to make it 98-81, and Chicago hung on from there. Before that, the only tension came early in the third quarter when Hinrich took a shot to the neck from Cole away from the ball. The result was an angry exchange, a flagrant foul one for Cole and a technical for Hinrich. The Bulls guard hit both free throws after James missed a foul shot, making it 67-45. Boozer led a scorching start by Chicago, scoring 19 points as the Bulls built a 58-44 halftime lead. But in the end, it was the Bulls rebounding and defence that had the Heat shaking their heads. "Weve never been a great rebounding team but weve been able to overcome that," James said. "Teams have done a much better job of rebounding against us. It could be an effort thing, it could be a lot of things but we just got to go out and just go get them. "Im going to do a better job of that, get more rebounds. But its a group thing for a team. We dont have a Kevin�Love or Joakim�Noah or Dwight�Howard, those types of guys who can get you 15-plus, we have to do it as a collective group." NOTES: There was a moment of silence before the game to honour Nelson Mandela, who died Thursday at the age of 95. ... This was the Bulls most lopsided win over the Heat since a 126-96 blowout at Miami on Jan. 16, 2008. ... Andersen expected to rejoin Miami on Friday in Minnesota. The Heat play the Timberwolves on Saturday. cheap jerseys cheap jerseys from china ' ' '

Its been 11 years since Mike�Weir raised his arms in celebration after tapping in a short putt to win the Masters. wholesale jerseys . For sure, April 2003 was a magical time for the lefthander. But it was April 2010 that may end up being just as significant. It was that month in that year that he conked a root with his swing and injured his elbow during play at the Heritage. That started the long spiral down from which he is still fighting to recover. Since that fateful day in Hilton Head, Weir has played 73 tournaments and missed the cut 53 times with four withdrawals. Hes had surgery and taken time away to recover from various ailments. Hes switched coaches and hes tried different swings. But through it all, one thing Weir has never done is lose hope. As good as his game has been over the years, as talented as he was with the putter and as precise as he was with the wedges, its his dog-on-a-bone determination, his will and self-belief that have been his biggest assets. And that only increases when it gets close to Masters time.�"I really think I can contend there," Weir said of the years first major. "I still believe in myself, more than anything. When I step on the grounds there, I have confidence. I know how to play that golf course. I have a great strategy for that golf course that doesnt really change." Weir is playing the PGA Tour on the second of two lifetime money list exemptions but he has a lifetime pass to Augusta, so no matter what happens down the road, he can keep coming back. But he doesnt want to be there in a ceremonial way; he wants to see his name on the leaderboard again and he believes that can happen even if he admits that might surprise a few people. "Im definitely under the radar," stated Weir, who hasnt been under par at Augusta since his opening round of 2010. "I hope to build on the next couple weeks. Its obviously a course I love. Good vibes and memories there � and I definitely know how to play that golf course." During much of his period of struggle, its been the driver thats been the weak link in his bag but lately the troubles have come at the other end. "Ive been really struggling on the greens, which is unlike me. My last start in Tampa, I made only two birdies, from four and five feet. I think Ive just spent so much time on the golf swing � 80/20, probably � I just needed to put more attention on the short game, which Ive done." Even with renewed confidence in his big stick, Weir knows that to conquer Augusta National, hell need to have all parts of his game going. As a medium to short hitter, tackling a 7,700-yard layout is going to put pressure on his wedges and putter. The course is so different than the one he played on in his first Masters in 2000 and the one he won on in 2003. Its longer, has a first cut (aka rough) and trees have been planted that remove some the possible angles that can be used to get at pins. But mostly, its just so much longer. "It takes a special kind of week to win there," he stated, "for someone outside the bombers. But it can still be done." It would certainly be special to see Canadas most successful golfer in the hunt again at the Masters, or anywhere for that matter. If he doesnt, it certainly wont be from lack of effort. Weir has spent long hours on the range and the putting green, trying to find the magic once again. Perhaps it will finally come together for him at Augusta National. jerseys from china . There is also the Genoa derby on Sunday, while second-place Roma hosts Parma looking to take advantage of any more slip-ups from Juventus. Here are five things to know about the Italian league ahead of this weekends matches: LLORENTE ON SONGThe last time Juventus hosted Inter Milan the visitors ended the Bianconeris impressive streak of 49 games unbeaten with a 3-1 victory. jerseys nfl cheap wholesale . Showing more spark after not taking enough challenging shots on goal in their 1-0 loss Friday night, the Bruins had 18 shots in the first period after managing just 25 in the entire opener. Luke�Glendening cut Bostons lead to 2-1 at 13:20 of the second period before Milan�Lucic scored late in the second and Zdeno�Chara added a power-play goal early in the third.TORONTO -- McGill offensive lineman Laurent Duvernay-Tardif is again the top-ranked prospect for the 2014 CFL Canadian draft. Duvernay-Tardif topped the CFL Scouting Bureaus top-15 list Tuesday. He was also the top-ranked prospect in the last rankings released in September. Laval offensive lineman Pierre Lavertu mooved up to second from No. cheap nfl jerseys. 4 in September. Montreal offensive lineman David Foucault remained at No. 3, followed by Matthias Goossen, an offensive lineman from Simon Fraser who dropped from the No. 2 spot. Manitoba defensive lineman Evan Gill is at No. 6 after being unranked in September. cheap jerseys cheap jerseys from china ' ' '

OKLAHOMA CITY -- The Detroit Pistons had Kentavious�Caldwell-Pope. Sandy Koufax Authentic Jersey . The Oklahoma City Thunder had Kevin�Durant. Even on a career night for Caldwell-Pope, advantage Oklahoma City. Durant scored 42 points, including 21 in the fourth quarter, and the Thunder secured the No. 2 playoff seed in the Western Conference, rallying from 10-point fourth-quarter deficit to beat the Pistons 112-111 Wednesday night. Oklahoma City (59-23) had lost two straight to put itself in the must-win situation in the regular-season finale to earn the No. 2 seed. Durant rallied the Thunder while recording his 14th 40-point game of the season. He drove for the go-ahead dunk with 16.5 seconds left and won a tip over Greg�Monroe with 1.8 seconds to go after a scramble for a loose ball resulted in a jump ball in Detroits end. Detroits Brandon�Jennings could only manage a 30-foot heave at the buzzer that banged off the rim. "We just figured it out," Durant said. "We got it done. It wasnt the best game. We didnt play well defensively. We didnt shoot the ball well offensively. But theres something about just getting it done, having that willpower, having that fight in you, no matter what. It was a tough game, we persevered and we got a good win." The Thunder extended their winning streak over Detroit (29-53) to nine games, dating to December 2008. Caldwell-Pope scored 30 points for the Pistons (29-53), while Monroe had 22, Kyle�Singler added 20 and Andre�Drummond recorded his ninth straight double-double to end the season for Detroit, finishing with 22 points and 13 rebounds. "Our guys played their hearts out, competed from the opening tip," Detroit coach John Loyer said. "I feel terrible for them because they deserved to win the game. They did anything we asked them to do tonight. Some guys stepped up and made some incredible shots and they put together 48 minutes of as good of basketball as we can play." Russell�Westbrook added 22 points for Oklahoma City, which will play Memphis in the first round of the playoffs. It was the ability of Westbrook, and especially Durant, to attack the rim in the fourth quarter that made the difference. Durants fourth quarter left Loyer almost speechless. "Hes one of the top one or two players in the world," Loyer said. "Thats what he did." For much of Wednesday, the Thunder looked and played like a tired team. Oklahoma Citys late-season defensive issues were on full display, as the Pistons shot 50.6 per cent from the field and Caldwell-Pope joined other non-marquee players such as Jodie�Meeks (Los Angeles Lakers), Gerald�Green (Phoenix Suns) and Tyreke�Evans (New Orleans Pelicans) in enjoying a career night against the Thunder. Oklahoma City trailed for most of the first half before taking a one-point lead twice in the third quarter. Detroit went on a 15-7 run and took an 87-79 lead on a basket by Jonas�Jerebko with 5 seconds left in the quarter. Detroit led 94-84 with 10:13 left in the game after a basket by Monroe. But Durants offensive flurry cut into that gap and the Pistons didnt score a basket in the final 3:17 or at all after Jennings hit two of three free throws with 2:07 left. On the Pistons final possession, the ball found its way to Jerebko, but he lost the handle as Thunder players slapped at the ball and officials ended up calling a tie ball. Caldwell-Pope hit four 3-pointers in the first half -- making one over the outstretched arm of the 6-foot-10 Durant -- and eclipsed his previous career high of 15 points by the 5:27 mark of the second quarter. His next basket put the Pistons ahead 48-37 with 4:52 left in the first half and hushed the crowd at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Durant, who was 2 of 8 from the field to that point, hit two free throws, then drained a 3-pointer to start a 17-7 run by Oklahoma City. Westbrook scored seven points in the final 2:41 and Durant drained an 18-foot jumper in the final second to pull the Thunder within 55-54. NOTES: Drummond set the Pistons record for highest field-goal percentage in a season, finishing at 62.3 per cent. Dennis Rodman had held the previous team record of 59.5 per cent, set during the 1988-89 season. ... Kendrick�Perkins was called for a technical foul by official Tony Brothers with 8:01 left in the third quarter when he protested after picking up his fifth foul. ... The Thunder recorded their 130th straight regular-season sellout at Chesapeake Energy Arena, which seats 18,203 fans. Dee Gordon Jersey . Johnson spent the last five seasons with Pittsburgh after being taken in the seventh round of the 2009 draft. He played in 52 games with 26 starts, totalling 22 catches for 216 yards and a touchdown. Brian Wilson Authentic Jersey .J. -- After getting permission from his 7-year-old daughter, New York Giants offensive lineman David�Diehl has retired after an 11-year career that included two Super Bowl championships.MUNICH - Bayern Munich finally celebrated winning its 24th German championship on Saturday after the last Bundesliga game of the season. Club captain Philipp Lahm lifted the championship shield to kick off the party in a sea of red and white confetti, after Claudio Pizarros injury time strike secured a 1-0 win over Stuttgart. The traditional wheat-beer showers followed with Pep Guardiola, in particular, singled out for attention by his jubilant players. The former Barcelona coach helped Bayern defend its title with a record seven games to spare in his first season in charge. The effects of the beer showers took their toll on Guardiola when he dropped the championship shield. "Its very nice but its heavy," he said, referringg to the 11-kilo trophy. Fernando Valenzuela Authentic Jersey. Around 15,000 fans later greeted the side at Marienplatz in the city centre for the presentation of the league trophy from the town hall balcony, following traditional title celebrations. Wearing Bavarian leather trousers like his players, Guardiola told enthusiastic supporters, "I am very proud of this team and we are very proud of you. I love you. Im a Muenchener (person from Munich). Mia san mia!" The party was expected to last long into the night. "You have to celebrate victories and titles," said Bayern sporting director Matthias Sammer, who didnt want to set any limits, despite Bayerns German Cup final clash with Borussia Dortmund in Berlin next Saturday. cheap jerseys cheap jerseys from china ' ' '