Toronto, ON (SportsNetwork.com) - Lou Williams netted 27 points off the bench and the Toronto Raptors defeated the Sacramento Kings 119-102 on Wednesday night. Greivis Vasquez posted 18 points and six assists, Jonas Valanciunas provided 15 points and nine rebounds and Kyle Lowry added 13 points and seven assists for Toronto, which has won four straight games. The Raptors had seven players reach double figures in scoring. Thats what its all about. Not individuals. Team, Toronto coach Dwane Casey said. Rudy Gay had 22 points, while Ben McLemore supplied 17 points and five boards for the Kings, who have dropped seven straight games. Sacramento held a 66-64 edge prior to the midway point of the third quarter before the Raptors erupted on a 26-6 extended run to turn the game into a rout. Valanciunas netted seven points during the surge before Lowry and Williams nailed consecutive 3-pointers to cap it and stake Toronto to a commanding 90-72 advantage late in the frame. The Raptors knocked down five triples during the burst. It was too much to overcome, Sacramento coach Tyrone Corbin said of the third-quarter surge. Terrence Ross potted a trey at the buzzer to give Toronto a 93-76 margin heading into the fourth, where they cruised to the easy victory, leading by as many as 22. Earlier, Toronto led 26-22 following a quarter of play, but the game was knotted at 54-54 going into the break. Game Notes Torontos 31 wins have already set a franchise record for the most before the All-Star break ... The Raptors tallied 21 points off 18 Kings turnovers ... DeMar DeRozan recorded 12 points, six assists and five boards for the Raptors ... Toronto finished 17-of-34 from beyond the arc. Minkah Fitzpatrick Dolphins Jersey .Y. -- The Montreal Canadiens have had few reasons to celebrate this season as they have been mired near the basement of the Eastern Conference. Jason Sanders Dolphins Jersey . Messier, who had been a special assistant to Rangers general manager Glen Sather, announced Thursday in a statement that he is resigning in order to "expand the game of hockey in the New York area by developing the Kingsbridge National Ice Center. http://www.officialauthenticdolphinsshop...ker-jersey.html. -- Hal Steinbrenner says Alex Rodriguez is "a great player" and "obviously an asset," but the New York Yankees managing general partner wouldnt discuss the third basemans possible return to the team following a season-long suspension. Daniel Kilgore Jersey . The goals took Liverpools tally in the Premier League this season to 70, overtaking Manchester City as the top scorers, and left the fourth-place team just four points behind league leader Chelsea. Josh Sitton Jersey .J. -- Having Ondrej Pavelec earn his 100th NHL win and seeing Mark Scheifele and Evander Kane break goal droughts were nice highlights for the Winnipeg Jets.The Colorado Avalanche pulled off a comeback victory in their first playoff game since 2010 and the Central Division champions hope to take a 2-0 series lead when they host the Minnesota Wild in Saturdays Game 2 from the Pepsi Center. Catch the game on TSN starting at 9:30pm et/6:30pm pt. Paul Stastny was the hero for the Avalanche in Thursdays opener, scoring with 13.4 seconds left in the third period to knot the score at 4-4 and then tallying the game-winner at 7:27 of overtime. The 5-4 decision was the first victory in the postseason for Colorado since taking Game 3 of a first-round series against San Jose on April 18, 2010. The Avs lost that set in six games and havent won a postseason series since beating Minnesota in the opening round of the 2008 playoffs. Meanwhile, Minnesota, which lost to Chicago in the opening round last spring, hasnt won a playoff series since beating Vancouver in the 2003 Western Conference semifinals. Colorado claimed its first division title since 2003 this season and is the second seed in the West. After Thursdays win, the Avalanche are now 5-0-1 against the Wild since the start of the 2013-14 campaign. The comeback triumph in Game 1 also marked Patrick Roys first playoff win as an NHL head coach. Of course, the legendary goaltender won four Stanley Cup titles in his playing days, including two with Colorado in 1996 and 2001. With his team trailing 4-3 late in regulation, Roy made a bold decision to pull goaltender Semyon Varlamov in favor of the extra attacker with 3:01 remaining in the third. The early pull paid off with Stastnys tying goal, but not before Avs defenseman Erik Johnson made a terrific hustle play to prevent an empty-net score that could have clinched the win for Minnesota. The Wild had a chance to extend their lead to two goals with Varlamov on the bench. Minnesota forward Erik Haula cleared the puck the length of the ice and the disc was headed for the net before Johnson hustled down and swept it away mere inches from the goal line. His play paid off a bit later as the Avalanche peppered Wild goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov with shots late in regulation and finally got one through. Holding the puck behind the net, Avs rookie Nathan MacKinnon sent a pass to the left point where Johnson blasted a shot with Stastny putting home the rebound under the crossbar from the right side to send the game to overtime.dddddddddddd "Its just like every goal, theres four or five guys that make it happen," said Stastny. "There was so much spin on that shot I didnt even see it go in." On Stastnys OT winner, Colorados Tyson Barrie kept the puck in at the left point and was able to elude Minnesota forward Jason Pominville before pushing the puck to the low left side. From there, MacKinnon picked up the puck and skated around the right side where his pass was one-timed in by Stastny for the win. "We are confident in ourselves and we always play to win," said Stastny. "Its just a bit different pace out there, theres a lot more grinding and a lot more tedious. We have to get our rest and get ready for Saturday." Jamie McGinn and Ryan OReilly each posted a goal and an assist for the Avalanche, who are in the playoffs after a three-season absence. Colorado captain Gabriel Landeskog also had a goal in his postseason debut. Varlamov made 29 saves for Colorado to improve his career postseason record to 11-9. The Avs played Game 1 without star forward Matt Duchene (knee) and defenseman John Mitchell (concussion). Both players will miss Game 2 as well. Charlie Coyle, Ryan Suter, Kyle Brodziak and Haula scored for the Wild, who are back in the playoffs for a second straight season after missing out four straight years. Zach Parise had two assists and Bryzgalov stopped 26 shots for Minnesota, which claimed the top wild card spot in the Western Conference. "I think despite the outcome of the game we did a lot of good things out there tonight," said Parise. "We made some mistakes in the third that resulted in the puck being in our net, and it cost us." The Wild hope to pick up a win Saturday so it can head back to St. Paul with the series tied 1-1. Minnesota is hosting Games 3 and 4, with the next meeting scheduled for Monday at Xcel Energy Center. This is the third all-time playoff meeting between the clubs. The Wild won a 2003 conference quarterfinals matchup in seven games, while the Avalanche knocked off Minnesota in six games during the same round in 2008. 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A quarterback will be selected with the No 1 pick of the 2016 Draft. Whether it will be North Dakota States Carson Wentz or University of Californias Jared Goff, we as yet dont know, but Los Angeles Rams have traded up from the 15th pick to top spot for the privilege of picking their franchise quarterback of the future.For every success story like Peyton Manning - taken with the top pick in the 1998 Draft - there is a cautionary tale like JaMarcus Russell, taken No 1 in 2007. Here we take a closer look at the quarterbacks taken with the first pick since the turn of the century…Jameis Winston (2015) Jameis Winston impressed during his first year as quarterback for Tampa Bay Buccaneers Much like this year, there was little separating the top two quarterbacks in the 2015 Draft, with much speculation as to whether the Tampa Bay Buccaneers would pick Winston, or Marcus Mariota.They ultimately plumped for Winston, who rewarded them with 4,042 passing yards - the third-most by a rookie in NFL history - in his first year. Mariota didnt fare too badly either mind, becoming the first rookie QB to record two games with at least four touchdown passes, for the Tennessee Titans.Andrew Luck (2012) Andrew Luck won three of four encounters against Peyton Manning, the man he replaced at Indianapolis Colts Once again, quarterbacks were taken with the first and second picks, although this time Luck was predicted to be the top pick by many over Robert Griffin III, and so it proved.There had even been a Suck for Luck campaign the previous year, with many hoping their team would lose, get the top pick of the draft and pick Luck. He was seen as the surest QB prospect coming out of college since Manning in 1998, and as luck would have it, thats who hed end up replacing at Indianapolis Colts.Cam Newton (2011) Cam Newton struggled against a dominant Denver Broncos defence in Super Bowl 50 Arguably, Newton is the one on our list to have tasted the most pro success, with SuperCam proving an unstoppable force both in the air, and on the ground.His rookie season saw him throw for an astonishing 4,051 yards and rush for 14 touchdowns. A couple of quieter years - by his standards - followed, but he was back to his best last year, leading Carolina Panthers to the Super Bowl with 35 touchdown passes, and 10 scores on the ground. Sadly, the season would end in defeat to Denver Broncos.Sam Bradford (2010) Could Sam Bradford (left) be set to follow former coach Chip Kelly (right) out the door at Philadelphia Eagles? Bradford is the toughest of the No 1 picks to grade. Is he an overrated player, afforded more opportunities - like the one he was given but failed to grasp with Philadelphia Eagles last year - than his talent deserves? Or is he endlessly unlucky, troubled constantly by injuries or coaching/system changes?After four such seasons with St Louis Rams, the Eagles traded for Bradford, looking to build Chip Kellys explosive offence around him. But after a poor 7-9 season, Kelly is gone and Philadelphia have traded up to the second pick of the 2016 Draft, where they will take a quarterback.Matthew Stafford (2009) Matthew Stafford was benched during a 42-17 blowout loss to Arizona Cardinals in 2015 The bullet-armed Stafford arguably possesses the strongest throw of all the names on our list, but has been plagued by inconsistency during his pro career.Staffords peak was undoubtedly in 2011 when he threw for 5,038 yards and an incredible 41 touchdowns. He has passed the 30-mark only once since, when notching 32 scores last year, but that belies a woeful start to the year as Detroit Lions went 0-5 with Stafford benched after three interceptions in a blowout loss to Arizona Cardinals.JaMarcus Russell (2007) JaMarcus Russell was criticised for being overweight and under-prepared during his time with Oakland Raiders Undoubtedly the biggest draft bust on our list, and maybe of all time. Russell posted a 7-18 record during his three years with the Oakland Raiders, tallying 18 touchdowns to 23 interceptions.After ultimately burning out of the NFL due to weight and drug issues, Russell attempted a comeback in 2013 but was not signed. To make matters worse for Raider Nation, they passed on such talent as Calvin Johnson, Adrian Peterson and Marshawn Lynch taken later in the draft.Alex Smith (2005) Alex Smith (far left) was selected first, ahead of Aaron Rodgers (third left) in the 2005 Draft Once again, the debate ahead of the 2005 Draft was which of two quarterbacks would be selected No 1 overall by San Francisco 49ers. They picked Smith, but the biggest surprise was to then see future NFL Hall-of-Famer Aaron Rodgers slide all the way to the 24th pick, where Green Bay Packers gleefully snapped him up.Smith took a long time to settle in comparison to Rodgers, but has ultimately carved out a decent NFL resume, first with San Francisco and now with Kansas City Chiefs.Eli Manning (2004) Eli Manning holds aloft the Vince Lombardi trophy after one of two triumphs in the Super Bowl with the New York Giants Another QB tussle for the top two picks, although this one was more personal. San Diego Chargers selected Manning, but there was a problem: he didnt want to play for them. He wanted to go to New York and play for the Giants, which he ultimately did after the two teams agreed a trade - Philip Rivers in turn heading for the sunshine coast of California.Eli hasnt matched his older brother Peytons career in terms of stats, but did for some time hold the Super Bowl advantage, with two wins to one until Peyton evened things up with Denvers win in Super Bowl 50 before retirement.Carson Palmer (2003) Carson Palmer took Arizona Cardinals to the NFC Championship game in 2015 but then struggled in defeat to Carolina Panthers Much like Bradford and Luck have been since, Palmer was the first to be touted as the best college QB since Peyton. He didnt disappoint, throwing 32 touchdowns in only his second season with the Cincinnati Bengals and then topping the 4,000-yard mark in his next two.A torn elbow disrupted his 2008 season and he failed to reach the same stratospheric heights following surgery. An unsuccessful trade to the Raiders followed and Palmers career appeared to be drifting until Arizona Cardinals picked him up. Personal bests of 4,671 yards and 35 touchdowns last year have seen him return to the top tier of NFL QBs.David Carr (2002) David Carr suffers one of his record 76 sacks for Houston Texans in 2002 Houston Texans came into the NFL as an expansion franchise in 2002, and chose Carr as their first draft pick. Sadly though, the burden of that tag weighed heavily on Carr, as did multiple defensive lineman, with the quarterback sacked a staggering 76 times in his rookie season behind a woefully put together Texans team.Carr never really recovered from the experience, suffering a further 68 sacks in the 2005 season and spent much of the rest of his career as a back-up. His brother Derek is at least faring a little better as a Raider, picked in the second round in 2014.Michael Vick (2001) Michael Vick explodes into the endzone and into the NFL for Atlanta Falcons in 2001 Commonplace in the NFL now with the likes of Newton, Russell Wilson, Colin Kaepernick etc, but Vick was a true pioneer as a duel threat quarterback, astonishing the league with his passing and running ability in his first few years with the Atlanta Falcons.Just as he should have been peaking, Vick was jailed for 21 months for his involvement in an illegal dog fighting ring. He had moderate success with the Eagles upon release, but is now serving as a back-up with the Pittsburgh Steelers, and its a case of what could have been for his NFL career.Follow the 2016 NFL Draft on Sky Sports 1 from midnight on Thursday and via our live blog here at www.skysports.com/nfl Also See: NFL Draft: Beginners Guide Making sens of the NFL Combine 2015 Draft: Non-first round surprises 2015 Draft: Hits and misses Lance Stephenson Jersey .com) - Blake Griffin led five Clippers in double figures with 24 points and the LA Clippers got back on track with a 101-97 win over the Utah Jazz. Al Jefferson Jersey . On Thursday, a judge said Varlamov could be released if he posted $5,000 bond and be allowed to travel with the team but he was ordered to stay away from his girlfriend, among other restrictions. http://www.authenticbasketballshoppacers...-pacers-jersey/. Arsene Wenger reportedly wants to convert the player into an attacking force, much like he did with Robin Van Persie. T. 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Holmgren said Downie will be released Sunday and is out indefinitely with a concussion. The teams combined for 164 penalty minutes, including 10 fighting majors and five game misconducts. Flyers goaltender Ray Emery was among those who was ejected after skating the length of the ice to fight Caps netminder Braden Holtby, who was a reluctant participant and took the punishment. Holtby was not ejected. Cheap Chargers Jerseys Cheap Rams Jersey Cheap Dolphins Jerseys Cheap Vikings Jerseys Cheap Patriots Jersey Cheap Saints Jerseys Cheap New York Giants Jerseys Cheap Jets Jerseys Cheap Raiders Jerseys Cheap Eagles Jerseys Cheap Steelers Jerseys Cheap 49ers Jerseys Cheap Seahawks Jerseys Cheap Buccaneers Jerseys Cheap Titans Jerseys Cheap Redskins Jerseys ' ' '

NEW YORK -- After an hour-long spin on the Madison Square Garden ice, New York Rangers forward Rick Nash is ready to practice with his teammates and could rejoin the lineup soon. Nash skated for the fourth straight day on Tuesday and remained symptom-free from a concussion sustained Oct. 8 at San Jose. He still needs work on his conditioning before he can play in a game, but Rangers coach Alain Vigneault said before his club hosted the New Jersey Devils that Nash would practice on Wednesday. Womens Chiefs Jerseys . Cruz set the tone with a two-run homer in the first inning, and Baltimore scored eight times in the eighth to pull away for a 12-3 victory in Game 1. The major league leader with 40 homers during the regular season, Cruz added an RBI single to his early blast off Max Scherzer. Tremon Smith Jersey .com) - Jenny Boucek is the new head coach of the Seattle Storm. http://www.cheapchiefsjerseyschina.com/. -- Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Sidney Rice tweeted an apparent goodbye after a report about his pending release. Kahlil McKenzie Jersey . However, it wasnt a problem on Monday night. Evgeni Nabokov made 23 saves for his 56th career shutout in the New York Islanders 3-0 win over the Detroit Red Wings on Monday night. Youth Chiefs Jerseys . Mars announced Saturday that the Rock and Roll Hall of Famers will join him as part of his halftime show. Super Bowl halftime performers often have collaborators. BEREA, Ohio -- Brian Hoyer defied long odds -- and stiff-armed Johnny Football -- to keep his dream job. Through sweat and tears, he fought his way back from a serious knee injury only to be faced with the Browns drafting Johnny Manziel, college footballs dynamic quarterback with the cult-like following. Hoyer, though, persevered. He endured grueling rehab to get back on the field sooner than expected, stayed focused as Manzielmania consumed the Browns, and ignored trade rumours. It will be Hoyer who will lead the Browns, his hometown team, onto the field for the Sept. 7 opener against the archrival Pittsburgh Steelers. For a Cleveland kid cut by three NFL teams and waiting for his chance, it doesnt get any better. "Obviously its very special for me," Hoyer said. "Did I believe this could happen after I got hurt? There was no doubt in my mind, but there were days when rehab (stunk) and I hated what I was doing. Its amazing how you appreciate the game when its taken away from you." Needing to fix his offence quickly, first-year Browns coach Mike Pettine chose Hoyer as his starter Wednesday over Manziel, who wasnt able to do enough during training camp or two preseason games to convince Clevelands coaching staff he deserved the job. Manziel is 0-1 as a pro. "Its obviously disappointing," Manziel said. "I feel like if I would have come out and played better it would have been a different outcome. I dont think I played terrible, but I didnt do anything to jump off the page. I made strides and got better throughout training camp and thats what I wanted to do." Despite a 40 per cent completion percentage, 57.9 rating and seeming to buckle under the pressure this month, Hoyer will start the season. However, in Cleveland that usually only guarantees one game. After all, the Browns have had 20 starting quarterbacks since 1999. Hoyer is the 12th QB to start the opener, a damning indictment toward a franchise that has only made the playoffs once in its expansion era. The first major decision of Pettines coaching career wasnt easy. He chose Hoyers experience over Manziels potential and he may have to make another switch. Pettine knows the best plans can change in an instant. "Give me a crystal ball, and Ill tell you," he said when asked if Manziel will play this season. "The NFL season is so long, so much can happen. We dont want Brian looking over his shoulder thinking one bad throw and Im out. But over time, if you feel you have to make a change, time will only tell. "You could foresee a scenario where he doesnt play this year and there are other scenarios that are aabsolutely possible as well.dddddddddddd Its hard to tell." Pettine brushed aside the notion Hoyer is on a short leash. "This is Brians job," he said. "I never think of it whether its a leash or we want a guy to be a game manager. We want him to be confident and go out and play." Pettines selection of Hoyer will finally allow the Browns to move on to other things, and theres plenty of work to be done. Pettine had targeted the third preseason game as the drop-dead date to pick his starter, but after both Hoyer and Manziel looked so bad in a loss at Washington on Monday, he met with his staff Tuesday night. He informed Hoyer and Manziel of his decision before a team meeting. Hoyer didnt have enough time to contact his family, but while he was in the meeting, he received dozens of congratulatory text messages. Nothing has ever come easy for him and although there was an outside perception Manziel would prevail, the 28-year-old Hoyer wasnt going down without a fight. With Manziel on his heels, he cant relax. "My entire careers been looking over my shoulder," he said. "The pressure you put on yourself is far greater than anything else, because when youre a rookie undrafted and youre trying to come in and make a team, theres no one to look over. Youre just trying to get on the team and to me, I feel like Ill carry that chip with me forever." Manziel temporarily is pushed aside, and that appears to be OK with the 21-year-old, who draws attention with every move he makes on and off the field. Manziel hopes the hysteria quiets down a little. "Im the backup quarterback," he said. "I shouldnt be in the spotlight." Manziel has no regrets about the way he approached his competition with Hoyer. He was widely criticized for some weekend partying, but the 2012 Heisman Trophy winner insists he wouldnt change a thing. Hes developing as a player, maturing as a man, and hopes to one day take over. "Now next time I come into training camp I wont be surprised by it," he said. "But I wouldnt go back from the point after the draft to now and change a single thing. Im going to continue to live my life and the off-season is the off-season. Im going to go places, Im going to do things and thats going to have no effect. "Obviously I need to do it in the proper way, but Im still going to continue to have fun in my life and continue to live my life." For now, as a backup. NOTES: Browns DE Desmond Bryant underwent wrist surgery. Pettine doesnt know yet if Bryant, limited to 12 games last season by a heart problem, will be back for the opener. 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VANCOUVER - B.C. Lions offensive lineman Patrick Kabongo announced his retirement Thursday, ending his nine-year career in the Canadian Football League. Kabongo appeared in 33 regular-season games for the Lions after joining the team in 2012 after seven seasons in Edmonton. "Patrick was a big personality on and off the field and we are grateful to have had him be part of our organization for two years," Lions general manager Wally Buono said Thursday in a release. "We wish him and his family the very best in the future." Kabongo, a West Division all-star in 2008, played 121 games for the Eskimos. The Lions also released defensive lineman Adrian Awasom on Thursday. USA Soccer Jerseys . - PGA Tour rookie Tony Finau shot a 9-under 63 at Del Monte and had a two-stroke lead over Billy Andrade and Lee Janzen of the Champions Tour after Thursdays opening round of the Callaway Pebble Beach Invitational. Geoff Cameron Jersey . The 29-year-old from Port Colborne, Ont., who trains out of San Diego, will fight bantamweight champion (Rowdy) Ronda Rousey on July 5 in the co-main event of UFC 175 in Las Vegas. http://www.soccerusafansshop.com/Zack-St...America-Jersey/. The Nashville Predators were glad their captain was still on their side. Weber had a goal and two assists, and Roman Josi scored the shootout winner to lift the Predators to a 4-3 win over the Flyers on Thursday night. Custom USA Soccer Jerseys .com) - Jimmie Johnson won Sundays AAA Texas 500 while championship contenders Jeff Gordon and Brad Keselowski as well as their teams were involved in a post-race fight on pit road after the two clashed in the closing laps at Texas Motor Speedway. Matt Miazga Jersey . Milan was held to 1-1 at home by Torino. Cagliari scored six minutes from halftime when Mauricio Pinilla blasted home from the penalty spot after Facundo Roncaglia tripped Marco Sau. The home side could have doubled its tally in stoppage time as first Fiorentina defender Stefan Savic almost scored an own goal then Albin Ekdals shot clipped the top of the upright.COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Kyrie Irving had 17 points and 12 assists to spoil the homecoming for Evan Turner as Cleveland beat the Philadelphia 76ers 104-93 on Monday night in an exhibition game played at Value City Arena on the Ohio State campus. Turner, who had 14 points, was the national player of the year for the Buckeyes as a junior in 2010 before deciding to enter the NNBA Draft, where he was the second overall selection.dddddddddddd The Cavs (4-2) pulled away with the aid of a technical given to Philadelphias Royce White after he picked up his fifth foul with 8:57 remaining. He was ejected and Matthew Dellavedova made three free throws for a 78-74 lead. Tristan Thompson had 15 points and 16 rebounds for Cleveland. Cheap Chargers Jerseys Cheap Rams Jersey Cheap Dolphins Jerseys Cheap Vikings Jerseys Cheap Patriots Jersey Cheap Saints Jerseys Cheap New York Giants Jerseys Cheap Jets Jerseys Cheap Raiders Jerseys Cheap Eagles Jerseys Cheap Steelers Jerseys Cheap 49ers Jerseys Cheap Seahawks Jerseys Cheap Buccaneers Jerseys Cheap Titans Jerseys Cheap Redskins Jerseys ' ' '

The British Olympic Association (BOA) has lined up a plumbing firm in Rio to handle any blockages or leaks that might need fixing in the athletes village. With more athletes arriving at the Olympic site every day, there have been several reports of unfinished building work and problems with the accommodation. Despite the Games starting on August 5, the organising committee was forced to admit earlier this week that more than half of the buildings in the athletes village had not yet passed safety checks.The Australian team initially refused to move into their accommodation but were expected to arrive on Wednesday, while there have also been complaints from the Dutch and Italian delegations, with the Swedish womens football team opting for a local hotel instead.A spokesman for Team GB said the accommodation was fantastic and were just going to crack on with it but said they had taken the precaution of putting a plumber on call in case of emergencies. Also See: Putin: Olympic ban discrimination Five-star Scholars set for Rio Aussies refuse to stay in Rio camp Pavey: IOC sending wrong message Latrell Sprewell Jersey .com) - The Winnipeg Jets got over one hurdle by snapping their longest losing streak of the season. Omri Casspi Jersey . a€“ All signs point to the Maple Leafs having their top offseason acquisition in the lineup on opening night. http://www.shopwarriorsonline.com/Cheap-...riors-Jersey/.Y. - Major League Soccers independent review panel has taken back the fine and one-game suspension it placed on Toronto FC forward Luke Moore earlier this week. Nate Thurmond Jersey . -- With Tony Allen back, the Memphis Grizzlies were able to turn up their defence pressure and hold off the Los Angeles Clippers down the stretch. Andre Iguodala Jersey . Perez, 35, posted a 1-2 record with a 3.69 earned-run average in 19 relief appearances last season. His season ended Aug. 9 due to a torn ligament in his left elbow. Perez joins infielder Andy LaRoche and catcher Mike Nickeas with minor-league agreements for 2014 that include invitations to attend spring training.BUFFALO, N.Y. - Matt Moulson scored twice and Sam Reinhart had his first goal of the preseason in the Buffalo Sabres 6-1 victory over the Washington Capitals on Wednesday night.Reinhart, the No. 2 overall pick this summer, caught goalie Philipp Grubauer out of position with a wrist shot goal in the third periodd.ddddddddddddTyler Ennis had a goal and two assists, and Drew Stafford and Marcus Foligno also scored. Jhonas Enroth made 22 saves, and Brian Gionta and Chris Stewart each had two assists.Jason Chimera scored for Washington. The Capitals played without Alexander Ovechkin and Nicklas Backstrom. Cheap Chargers Jerseys Cheap Rams Jersey Cheap Dolphins Jerseys Cheap Vikings Jerseys Cheap Patriots Jersey Cheap Saints Jerseys Cheap New York Giants Jerseys Cheap Jets Jerseys Cheap Raiders Jerseys Cheap Eagles Jerseys Cheap Steelers Jerseys Cheap 49ers Jerseys Cheap Seahawks Jerseys Cheap Buccaneers Jerseys Cheap Titans Jerseys Cheap Redskins Jerseys ' ' '

CHARLESTON, S.C. -- Venus Williams couldnt dig herself out of a hole this time and lost to Montreals Eugenie Bouchard 7-6 (6), 2-6, 6-4 at the Family Circle Cup on Thursday. The 33-year-old Williams had fought back in each of her first two matches to advance. She seemed to follow the same game-plan in this one, rallying from a set down to win the second set and lead 2-1 in the third. Thats when the 20-year-old Canadian, took over, breaking Williams serve twice down the stretch including the final game. "I think Ive shown to myself how mentally strong I can be," said Bouchard, seeded sixth at the Family Circle. "Today was really a mental battle. It was a bit ugly at times and tough on the court, but I fought through it." Bouchard finished things off by reaching Williams drop shot and pushing it into the open court for her first victory over the seven-time Grand Slam champion. "She played a lot more consistently than I did," Williams said. "I think my errors really hurt me a lot today. Just a lot of up and down, a lot of errors." Especially in two key stretches when it looked as if the 33-year-old Williams was ready to take control. Bouchard was ahead 5-3 in the opening set when Williams rallied and held two set points in the tiebreaker. But Bouchard won the next four points, including a crisp backhand for a winner to secure the set. When Williams moved on top in the third set, Bouchard did not panic but dug in to move on to her third quarter-final round this year. "Ive just kind of raised my game a little bit and was extra solid on those important points," Bouchard said. Bouchard will next face second-seed Jelena Jankovic, the 2007 Family Circle champion who at No. 8 in world is the highest-ranked player remaining in the tournament. Jankovic defeated Croatias Ajla Tomljanovic 7-5, 6-1. Jankovic has reached the Family Circle quarter-finals in six of the past seven seasons. Shes been beaten by a Williams sister each of the last two years, falling to Venus in 2012 and to Serena in last years championship finals. Jankovic struggled early as the 20-year-old Tomljanovic fought off a set point to tie the opening set at 5-all. Jankovic then won eight of the next nine games to move forward. "I missed that overhead on my set point, which was kind of frustrating, and we levelled it at 5 5," Jankovic said. "But I was able to stay calm and regroup and finish that set. So that was very important." The loss ends a run of success for the Williams family on the courts here. Sister Serena was the two-time defending tournament champion before losing Tuesday night. Venus played with the Washington Kastles on the green clay to win the 2012 World Team Tennis title. Venus Williams had been bothered by an illness that she said limited her endurance this week. She had to come from behind in her first two matches here to face Bouchard and did not have enough stamina to wait out her opponents solid, flat ground strokes. "That kind of made it more challenging. I mean I think normally I would probably be able to challenge the points a little bit longer and just make her play more shots and just be more willing to play longer points," Williams said. Williams was the 2004 Family Circle champion. She reached the semifinals here last year where she lost to sister Serena, the eventual champion. Others advancing to the round of eight included third-seed Sara Errani, who outlasted Peng Shuai, 7-6 (6), 7-6 (5); No. 14 seed Andrea Petkovic,who topped fourth-seeded Sabine Lisicki 6-1, 6-0; unseeded Jana Cepelova, who defeated 13th-seed Elena Visnina 7-6 (4), 3-6, 6-3; and 12th-seed Daniela Hantuchova, who beat Teliana Pereira 6-2, 6-3. Errani rallied in each of her sets to eliminate Peng, the worlds top-ranked doubles player. For Cepelova, it was her second big victory of this event after knocking off world No. 1 Serena Williams in a stunner Tuesday night. Brooks Orpik Jersey . Just ask last seasons Supporters Shield winners, the New York Red Bulls, who were resoundingly defeated last weekend by a rampant Vancouver Whitecaps in a match which produced two contenders for MLS Goal of the Week from Sebastian Fernandez and Pedro Morales. Jaromir Jagr Jersey . 9 Baylor Bears just needed some time to get on track in their first game after the Christmas break. http://www.authentichockeyshopcapitals.c...apitals-jersey/. New York (16-9-8) took over first place in the Eastern Conference and has the best record in the league with one game remaining. Houstons five-game unbeaten streak was snapped, and the Dynamo (13-11-9) are sixth in the East with one game remaining. Alexander Ovechkin Jersey . It looked like being another miserable day for Moyes when Ashley Westwood put Villa in front from a 13th-minute free kick. But Rooney headed United level seven minutes later, and the striker netted his 16th of the season for the struggling champions from the penalty spot before halftime. Lars Eller Jersey . American Lindsey Jacobellis was third, while Japans Yuka Fujimori finished just off the podium. Maltais, from Petite-Riviere-St-Francois, Que., earned bronze at the 2006 Olympic Games and is set to return to the Games this February in Sochi, Russia.Philadelphia, PA (SportsNetwork.com) - It sure sounds nice to have Joe Flacco as your teams backup quarterback. The Sports Networks 2014 All-FCS NFL Team basically does, and for the third straight season no less. Tony Romo of the Dallas Cowboys is the selection once again for the starting quarterback of our fictional team that spotlights the best of the FCS players in the NFL. This season, there were over 200 on rosters, including active players, practice players and those on injured reserved. Romo isnt the only three-peat among the selections. New York Giants running back Rashad Jennings, New Orleans Saints wide receiver Marques Colston, Oakland Raiders offensive tackle Austin Howard, guard Dan Connolly of the AFC Champion New England Patriots, Chicago Bears defensive end Jared Allen and Cleveland Browns defensive tackle Desmond Bryant also are back for a third time. Romo was the outstanding player in the FCS when he won the 2002 Walter Payton Award out of Eastern Illinois and Allen captured top defensive honors as the 2003 Buck Buchanan Award winner from Idaho State. In the pros, Flacco can say hes a Super Bowl MVP, but the former University of Delaware star continues to be a smidge behind Romo in the regular season, which this team is based upon. The secondary, this year led by the safeties, has continually been the deepest area talent-wise, and theres an extra pick with Detroit Lions safety James Ihedigbo, who played in the FCS at Massachusetts, sneaking onto the team as a nickleback. If youre looking for an FCS alum to coach this team, Cowboys mentor Jason Garrett, from Princeton University, gets the nod this season over a pair of past Super Bowls winners, Mike Tomlin (Pittsburgh Steelers, William & Mary) and Sean Payton (New Orleans Saints, Eastern Illinois). The Sports Network 2014 All-FCS NFL Team Regular-Season Statistics Only OFFENSE Quarterback - ***Tony Romo, Dallas Cowboys (Eastern Illinois): 304-for-435 (69.9 percent), 3,705 yards, 34 touchdowns, 9 interceptions; 113.2 passer rating Running Back - Isaiah Crowell, Cleveland Browns (Alabama State): 148 carries, 607 yards, 8 touchdowns Running Back - ***Rashad Jennings, New York Giants (Liberty): 167 carries, 639 yards, 4 touchdowns; 30 receptions, 226 yards Fullback - Kyle Juszczyk, Baltimore Ravens (Harvard): 19 receptions, 182 yards, 1 touchdown Wide Receiver - ***Marques Colston, New Orleans Saints (Hofstra): 59 receptions, 902 yards, 5 touchdowns Wide Receiver - Chris Hogan, Buffalo Bills (Monmouth): 41 receptions, 426 yards, 4 touchdowns Tight End - *Julius Thomas, Deenver Broncos (Portland State): 43 receptions, 489 yards, 12 touchdowns Tackle - Terron Armstead, New Orleans Saints (Arkansas-Pine Bluff) Tackle - ***Austin Howard, Oakland Raiders (Northern Iowa) Center - Daniel Kilgore, San Francisco 49ers (Appalachian State) Guard - ***Dan Connolly, New England Patriots (Southeast Missouri State) Guard - Willie Colon, New York Jets (Hofstra) DEFENSE Defensive End - ***Jared Allen, Chicago Bears (Idaho State): 55 tackles (37 solo), 5.dddddddddddd sacks, 4 passes defended, 2 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries Defensive End - **Kroy Biermann, Atlanta Falcons (Montana): 77 tackles (43 solo), 3 passes defended, 1 forced fumble Defensive Tackle - Chris Baker, Washington Redskins (Hampton): 40 tackles (25 solo), 1 sack Defensive Tackle - ***Desmond Bryant, Cleveland Browns (Harvard): 49 tackles (25 solo), 1 pass defended, 1 fumble recovery Linebacker - **Justin Durant, Dallas Cowboys (Hampton): 49 tackles (31 solo), 4 passes defended, 1 interception, 2 forced fumbles, 1 fumble recovery in six games Linebacker - Ramon Humber, New Orleans Saints (North Dakota State): 50 tackles (38 solo), 1 pass defended Linebacker - *Paul Worrilow, Atlanta Falcons (Delaware): 143 tackles (84 solo), 3 passes defended, 2 forced fumbles Cornerback - Corey Graham, Buffalo Bills (New Hampshire): 84 tackles (65 solo), 15 passes defended, 2 interceptions, 1 fumble recovery Cornerback - **Buster Skrine, Cleveland Browns (Chattanooga): 67 tackles (55 solo), 18 passes defended, 4 interceptions Safety - **Mike Adams, Indianapolis Colts (Delaware): 87 tackles (67 solo), 11 passes defended, 5 interceptions, 2 forced fumbles Safety - *Antoine Bethea, San Francisco 49ers (Howard): 86 tackles (72 solo), 1 sack, 10 passes defended, 4 interceptions, 1 INT touchdown return, 1 fumble recovery Nickleback - *James Ihedigbo, Detroit Lions (Massachusetts): 71 tackles (59 solo), 8 passes defended, 4 interceptions, 3 forced fumbles, 1 fumble recovery SPECIAL TEAMS Place-kicker - *Dan Carpenter, Buffalo Bills (Montana): 34-of-38 field goals (89.5 percent), 58 long, 31-of-32 extra points, 133 points Punter - *Sam Martin, Detroit Lions (Appalachian State): 68 punts, 46.1-yard average, 71 long, 29 inside 20 Return - Andre Roberts, Washington Redskins (The Citadel): 30 kickoff returns, 23.7-yard average; 28 punt returns, 7.4-yard average Coverage - *Justin Bethel, Arizona Cardinals (Presbyterian) Long Snapper - Mike Leach, Arizona Cardinals (William & Mary) * - 2013 selection **-2012 selection ***-2012 and 13 selections Cheap Chargers Jerseys Cheap Rams Jersey Cheap Dolphins Jerseys Cheap Vikings Jerseys Cheap Patriots Jersey Cheap Saints Jerseys Cheap New York Giants Jerseys Cheap Jets Jerseys Cheap Raiders Jerseys Cheap Eagles Jerseys Cheap Steelers Jerseys Cheap 49ers Jerseys Cheap Seahawks Jerseys Cheap Buccaneers Jerseys Cheap Titans Jerseys Cheap Redskins Jerseys ' ' '

Though Mark Giordano had the counting numbers to legitimize his Norris Trophy candidacy last season, with 14 goals and 33 assists in 64 games, the crux of the argument in support was tied up in Calgary’s Corsi% splits. With Giordano on the ice last season at 5-on-5, Calgary controlled 53.4% of the play – the mark of an elite hockey team. With Mark Giordano off of the ice last season, Calgary controlled just 43.1% of the play – the mark of a lottery-bound hockey team. The difference isn’t anything we have seen since Corsi% started being collected in the 2007-2008 season. To illustrate this, I went ahead and compiled the widest on-ice/off-ice Corsi% splits for defensemen over the last seven years. Relative Excellence Year Player Team Corsi% Corsi% Off RelativeCorsi% 2013-14 Mark Giordano Calgary 53.4% 43.1% +10.3% 2010-11 Dustin Byfuglien Winnipeg 54.3% 45.0% +9.3% 2013-14 T.J. Brodie Calgary 51.5% 43.3% +8.2% 2012-13 Christian Ehrhoff Buffalo 50.1% 42.1% +8.0% 2009-10 Carlo Colaiacovo St. Louis 56.8% 48.9% +7.9% 2012-13 Anton Stralman N.Y. Rangers 57.3% 49.6% +7.7% 2011-12 Alex Goligoski Dallas 54.3% 46.8% +7.5% 2010-11 Lubomir Visnovsky Anaheim 48.9% 41.4% +7.5% 2013-14 Matt Niskanen Pittsburgh 53.4% 46.1% +7.3% 2013-14 Marc-Edouard Vlasic San Jose 58.2% 51.1% +7.1% These players are sorted by differential (or RelativeCorsi%), so at least in the hockey analytics era, Giordano’s performance is without parallel. It’s also worth noting that frequent defence partner T.J. Brodie – who Calgary just locked up on a team-friendly five-year deal – is also on the list. The data speaks quite well of how impactful the players are relative to their team’s performance when they are on the ice, but it also speaks to how poorly the teams perform when they are off of the ice. This point is one that shouldn’t be lost. If last year’s Flames team had ample depth that pulled their weight when Giordano was taking a breather, Giordano would have never appeared on this list. The disparity is just as much Giordano’s dominance as it was Calgary’s futility. This is precisely the reason why you don’t see elite possession guys like Drew Doughty, or Nicklas Lidstrom, or Zdeno Chara in the above group. They always drove play favourably, but also had competent teammates that pulled their weight when they were off the ice. This gets into Calgary’s bigger issue – a stunning lack of depth at the NHL-level away from the players assigned to handle tough opponents. To Calgary’s credit, it’s a problem they’ve identified, though I don’t know if they’ve went about addressing it in the best manner possible. They signed Deryk Engelland and Raphael Diaz in the off-season, and traded for Ladislav Smid a few months prior. Kris Russell, who feels something of a Flames veteran by current standards, has logged all of 76 games with the team and he’s another player also acquired via trade, in the summer of 2013. Dennis Wideman’s best years are behind him now, but I’m sure the team still sees him as a serviceable back-end guy who can give them twenty minutes a night. To test if there’s been any improvement early this year from the run of blue-line changes, we can pull out Corsi% again for Calgary with Mark Giordano on the ice v. Mark Giordano off of the ice. With or Without Giordano Status CorsiFor CorsiAgainst Corsi% Giordano On-Ice 116 115 50.2% Giordano Off-Ice 173 290 37.4% As a quick reminder here, Calgary’s Corsi% with Giordano off of the ice last season was 43.1% -- a ‘we are quite interested in the upcoming draft lottery’ sort of number. This year, it’s down to a pitiful 37.4%. Though it’s only been eight games, I find it hard to legitimize a small sample size argument from this set of data, if only because it’s just a continuation of what we witnessed all of last season. What’s interesting about Calgary is troubleshooting the team’s issues isn’t a particularly difficult task. The team glaringly lacks depth and competency, but does have a small group of fantastic players who seem to engage in playoff-caliber hockey when they are on the ice. That’s more than you can say for some of the teams who already hold a vested interest in the upcoming draft lottery. It might be in Calgary’s best interest to let the anchors drag the team down, putting them in a position to bid for one of Connor McDavid, Jack Eichel, or Noah Hanifin. The point of interest here is seeing whether or not the majority of Calgary’s lineup – which is emphatically poor – can drag down a small group of excellent players and a decent duo in net between Jonas Hiller and Karri Ramo. 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SOCHI, Russia -- Canada will send 54 athletes to Sochi for next months Paralympic Games. The Canadian Paralympic Committee announced the team for the March 7-16 Games on Wednesday. Canada will compete in every Paralympic sport contested, including sledge hockey, wheelchair curling, para-alpine skiing, para-snowboard, para-Nordic skiing and biathlon. Canadas team includes five guides for athletes with a visual impairment, including Erik Carleton, who will try to help Brian McKeever of Canmore, Alta., add to his collection of 10 Paralympic medals. Other Canadian athletes include three-time Paralympian Robbi Weldon of Thunder Bay, Ont., who competed in cycling at the 2012 London Games, and three-time Paralympians Billy Bridges of Summerside, P.E.I., and Graeme Murray of Gravenhurst, Ont., of the mens sledge hockey team. Alpine skier Chris Williamson of Toronto, who has won 105 World Cup medals and three Paralympic medals, will also compete in his fourth Paralympics. Canadas goal is to finish top three in the gold-medal count, which was achieved at the 2010 Games in Vancouver with 10 gold among the 19 won. Canada sent 220 athletes to the Olympics in Sochi and brought home 25 medals (10 gold, 10 silver, 5 bronze). Approximately 575 athletes from 45 countries will compete at the Sochi Paralympics. Avery Williamson Jets Jersey .Mihajlovic was sent off minutes from the end of Thursdays 2-0 win over Brescia and has been punished for using a disrespectful expression toward the fourth official and throwing the contents of a bottle of water at him, thus assuming an intimidating attitude. Trumaine Johnson Jersey . City, fielding a depleted team having already qualified, was twice pegged back by the plucky Czech champions but substitute Negredo tapped home in the 78th minute and Dzekos header made sure of victory in the 89th. The result kept City three points behind Bayern Munich ahead of their meeting in Germany in two weeks. http://www.authenticjetsfootballonline.c...on-jets-jersey/. Wall made the comment in a speech to a Regina business crowd that included Lesnar. The U.S. wrestler and retired mixed martial artist says he was visiting his brothers farm in Saskatchewan and decided he wanted to hear what the premier had to say. Clive Walford Jersey . Four years after winning gold on home ice in Vancouver, the Canadians will get a chance to make it two in a row Sunday against Sweden after beating the United States 1-0 in the Olympic semifinals Friday at Bolshoy Ice Dome. Nathan Shepherd Jets Jersey . Every. Single. Game. Thats 1,230 in total to cover the regular season. The man is Corey Sznajder, a soft-spoken 23-year-old Salisbury University grad who lives in Annapolis, Maryland and has been charting zone entries and zone exits throughout the NHL. I love big projects, he said. No kidding. At the 2013 Sloan Sports Analytics Conference, I met Eric Tulsky, who presented research on the value of controlled zone entries (short answer: about twice as valuable to enter with control of the puck rather than dumping it in) and Sznajder had charted a couple hundred games that were included in that study.LAS VEGAS - A relaxed-looking Georges St-Pierre made weight Friday in advance of his showdown with No. 1 contender Johny (Bigg Rigg) Hendricks at UFC 167. The 32-year-old champion from Montreal raced on stage to cheers of "GSP, GSP" at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, weigghing in at the welterweight limit of 170 pounds.dddddddddddd Hendricks also weighed in at 170. Both men smiled as they posed opposite each other, then hugged. Hendricks promised to knock St-Pierre out Saturday night. St-Pierre told the audience not to blink. Cheap Chargers Jerseys Cheap Rams Jersey Cheap Dolphins Jerseys Cheap Vikings Jerseys Cheap Patriots Jersey Cheap Saints Jerseys Cheap New York Giants Jerseys Cheap Jets Jerseys Cheap Raiders Jerseys Cheap Eagles Jerseys Cheap Steelers Jerseys Cheap 49ers Jerseys Cheap Seahawks Jerseys Cheap Buccaneers Jerseys Cheap Titans Jerseys Cheap Redskins Jerseys ' ' '

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ALAMEDA, Calif. - The Oakland Raiders re-signed offensive lineman Khalif Barnes on Friday. The 6-foot-6, 321-pound former University of Washington player has spent five seasons with the Raiders after four with Jacksonville. He has made 46 starts in 63 games for Oakland, starting 11 games last season at left tackle and five at left guard. "Im so excited to be back," Barnes said in a statement released by the team. "Im going on my sixth year here and weve had some ups and downs, but there are some unfinished things we have to do here. I want to be a part of the process that turns this thing around." Tyler Thornburg Red Sox Jersey . Sociedad remained in sixth place with Villarreal a point behind in seventh, both in Europa League spots and in striking distance of fourth place and the final Champions League berth. 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Jim Leyland, in his eighth playoffs, has never had a starting rotation he trusts as much as the grouping of Max Scherzer, Justin Verlander, Anibal Sanchez and Doug Fister. Jackie Bradley Jr Red Sox Jersey .com) - Driphus Jackson had three touchdown passes, including two in a 19-second span in the opening quarter, to guide Rice to a 30-6 rout of Fresno State at the Hawaii Bowl.PHILADELPHIA -- For the first time this preseason, the Philadelphia Eagles will have their preferred trio of wide receivers on the field at the same time along with last seasons league rushing leader, LeSean McCoy. Riley Cooper (ankle), Jeremy Maclin (hamstring) and rookie Jordan Matthews should all line up when head coach Chip Kelly goes to a three wide receiver set when the Eagles host the Pittsburgh Steelers in the third preseason game Thursday night. Cooper, last years surprise in Kellys system when he caught 47 passes for 835 yards and eight touchdowns, did not play in the first two preseason games because of the ankle injury suffered during the first week of training camp. Maclin, who missed all of 2013 with a torn ACL, has been bothered by a hamstring injury and sat out last Fridays game in New England. McCoy, who became the first Eagle since Steve van Buren in 1949 to lead the league in rushing, with 1,607 yards last year, missed a few days of practice with what was termed "turf toe". According to Kelly, all three should be on the field Thursday night. "(McCoy), I dont think hell ever play again," Kelly joked when asked about the status of his running back. "No, hes fine. He was out here. Its not that serous, not that big of a deal." McCoy has carried seven times in the first two games for just 19 yards. He should see about one half of action against the Steelers. "We havent gone over all of that yet," Kelly said of how long the starters will play. "We have two more days to figure that out." While Cooper and Maclin are back to boost quarterback Nick Foles and the Eagles passing game, two other backup wide receivers will miss Thursdays game. Veteran Brad Smith, who was getting plenty of time with the twwo starters out, is nursing a groin injury and rookie Josh Huff could be out a few more weeks with a sprained shoulder.dddddddddddd. "Brad has a groin, I dont know if hes going to go," Kelly said. "But its not an extended thing. If he doesnt play Thursday, I expect him to be back at practice, Saturday." There was some good news for Huff, another draft pick who has provided moments of excitement in the early going of camp. "Nothing is broken, he just has to rehab the shoulder," Kelly said. "No surgery, its just a rehab situation." Having the trio of Cooper, Maclin and Matthews, the highly-touted second-round pick from Vanderbilt, together will give Kelly a chance to see what he has going into the season. And give Foles the receivers he expects to have during the regular season. "Its tough for Nick," Cooper said. "Every time he looks up theres a different guy out there, because someone is down. We all have to be out there. It helps the team and it helps Nick. "Its a big deal, yeah. In the NFL you need to have timing, you need to have accuracy. When this guy is out and then this guy is out, its tough to build on that." Thats especially true for Maclin, who hadnt lined up with Foles, since the quarterbacks rookie year and that was in Andy Reids West Coast offence. "It feels good to have us all on the field playing and playing together," Maclin said. "We all have our own relationship with Nick, and its building by being out there together." NOTES: CB Nolan Carroll, the free agent signing from Miami who played well early, but missed the first two games with a hamstring injury, is also expected to return Thursday. . Backup R B Chris Polk is not expected to play with a hamstring injury. Cheap Chargers Jerseys Cheap Rams Jersey Cheap Dolphins Jerseys Cheap Vikings Jerseys Cheap Patriots Jersey Cheap Saints Jerseys Cheap New York Giants Jerseys Cheap Jets Jerseys Cheap Raiders Jerseys Cheap Eagles Jerseys Cheap Steelers Jerseys Cheap 49ers Jerseys Cheap Seahawks Jerseys Cheap Buccaneers Jerseys Cheap Titans Jerseys Cheap Redskins Jerseys ' ' '

LONDON -- West Bromwich Albion striker Nicolas Anelka was charged by the English Football Association on Tuesday for performing a gesture considered to be anti-Semitic while celebrating a goal. The former France international has until Thursday to respond to the charge, and is facing a minimum five-game Premier League ban under the FAs anti-discrimination sanctions. West Brom said Anelka is now "considering his options," adding that its internal inquiry will conclude when the FA process is over. The gesture, which is known in France as a "quenelle" and has been described as an "inverted Nazi salute," involves pointing one straightened arm downward while touching the shoulder with the opposite hand. It was popularized by a French comedian whose performances are considered anti-Semitic. Dieudonne MBala MBala denies anti-Semitism claims, but he has been convicted multiple times for inciting racial hatred or anti-Semitism over the years. This month, Dieudonne agreed to abandon a controversial show banned in several French cities after angering the government. Anti-racism group Kick It Out said the FA has "spent a longer time than desirable" before charging Anelka over the incident in the globally-televised match against West Ham on Dec. 28. Anelka said after the West Ham game that the gesture was meant to show support for Dieudonne, and it was "anti-system" rather than anti-Semitic. While accepting that Anelka is not anti-Semitic, Britains Jewish security organization warned Tuesday that the "quenelle" could be directed at Jews more as a result of its use in a match. "Anelka has introduced a very ugly phenomenon into British football," the Community Security Trust said. The 34-year-old Anelka had already agreed not to perform the gesture again but has not apologized. "Anelka made a gesture which was abusive and/or indecent and/or insulting and/or improper," the FA said in a statement. "It is further alleged that this is an aggravated breach ... that it included a reference to ethnic origin and/or race and/or religion or belief." The FA introduced a minimum five-game ban for racism last year in the wake of high-profile cases that saw Liverpool striker Luis Suarez suspended for eight games and Chelsea captain John Terry for four. A three-person FA independent regulatory commission will deal with Anelkas case, and the European Jewish Congress is demanding "the strongest punishment possible." "The FA must send a very strong message that offences made against the Jewish community should be treated in the same away as offences against any other minority," EJC President Moshe Kantor said. "Anti-Semitism is a growing phenomenon in Europe, and in particular surrounding football stadiums, and hate against Jews, as with any other type of hate and intolerance, should be stamped out without demonstrating leniency to the perpetrators." West Broms shirt sponsor announced it wont be renewing their deal when it expires at the end of this season as a result of the controversy. Anelka is one of the most talented and controversial players France has produced. After growing up in a Parisian suburb, Anelka started his career at Paris Saint-Germain and was quickly spotted by Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, who signed him in 1997. Anelkas sometimes nonchalant attitude and apparent lack of commitment to the team started to anger the Arsenal fans, who gave him the nickname "Le Sulk." Anelka left Arsenal in 1999 for Real Madrid, where he won the Champions League, before moving to PSG, Liverpool, Manchester City, Fenerbahce, Bolton and Chelsea. Anelka caused the biggest controversy of his career representing France when he was sent home from the 2010 World Cup after insulting then-coach Raymond Domenech in the dressing room. 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Kerr said he had dinner with Jackson, his former coach with Chicago and the new Knicks team president, on Friday night and they talked again Saturday. Kerr is in New York to work the game between the Brooklyn Nets and Toronto Raptors for TNT.The Tambellini name is well known in the hockey world. Steve has built a solid reputation throughout the years - first as a hockey player, then as an NHL general manager and now as a scout. Hes had years of experience and knows how to handle any situation with ease. But when it comes to asserting himself into his son Adams hockey career with the Western Hockey Leagues Calgary Hitmen, the Tambellini patriarch has been silent. "Adam being an older guy and coming from a hockey family, I havent had any interaction with the family other than saying hello," said Hitmen head coach Mike Williamson. "Steve and his family know our organization (and) feel comfortable with Adam coming here. "Hes very quiet. Lets us do our business. Hes more of a fan than a dad, more so than people think." Adam is the youngest child to bear the Tambellini name. Drafted 65th overall by the New York Rangers last year, he went the collegiate route and started his rookie season with the University of North Dakota last September. But 16 games into the campaign, Adam had a change of heart. He turned to his most trusted advisors - his father and brother Jeff - for some guidance. As a family, they made the decision that Adams future was best served in the Canadian Hockey League, with its heavier schedule and more opportunity to play. The Portland Winterhawks owned Adams rights, but Adam made it known his preference was to go to Calgary. The Hitmen jumped at the chance to acquire him, trading their 2014 first-round bantam pick to get him. And it was a decision that Williamson says has already paid off. "The reason he came is because he wanted to play more hockey," he said. "To develop his consistency and play a tougher schedule and get used to that day-to-day grind. Hes come in and fit in really well. Hes given us some depth in the middle on the ice, hes given us a scoring threat, he puts the puck in the net or can set somebody else up." And Adams actions have spoke volumes. On the day he was traded to Calggary, he drove to Winnipeg and then flew to Saskatoon for his first game with the Hitmen - and finished the night with four points.ddddddddddddWhats more impressive is that in 19 games so far, he already has 27 points. "I want to get stronger and develop my game as much as possible," said Tambellini. "Playing this pro-style level, its going to lead onto the AHL and one day hopefully the NHL. Again I will be playing against men in those leagues, so getting stronger is the number one thing." At 63 and 185 pounds, Adams been told by the Rangers that he has to get stronger. Hes a known playmaker - a skilled centre who can play a two-way game and also carries a great shot. But Williamson says he has to grow into his frame and like most other junior players, he has to become more consistent. Adams also spent some time in the offseason working out with his older brother Jeff. The elder Tambellini, who played six seasons in National Hockey League before heading to MoDo of the Swedish Elite League, runs Factory Hockey, a business that helps develop hockey players from the minors up to the NHL. And while father Steve remains close to Adam, its Jeff that has been his biggest role model. "We are different players," said Adam. "He always tells me theres says theres no right or wrong way to get to the NHL. Obviously with him he didnt have the longest career but six long seasons is quite the accomplishment and I look up to him more than anyone." As for his father, Adam wants to make his own name in hockey without the help of his father. He doesnt name drop or use it to get ahead. But he does always take to heart his fathers best piece of advice, which is simply to be a pro every day on the ice and off the ice. "To me, hes just my dad, just another father who has helped mLONDON -- West Bromwich Albion striker Nicolas Anelka was charged by the English Football Association on Tuesday for performing a gesture considered to be anti-Semitic while celebrating a goal. The former France international has until Thursday to respond to the charge, and is facing a minimum five-game Premier League ban under the FAs anti-discrimination sanctions. West Brom said Anelka is now "considering his options," adding that its internal inquiry will conclude when the FA process is over. The gesture, which is known in France as a "quenelle" and has been described as an "inverted Nazi salute," involves pointing one straightened arm downward while touching the shoulder with the opposite hand. It was popularized by a French comedian whose performances are considered anti-Semitic. Dieudonne MBala MBala denies anti-Semitism claims, but he has been convicted multiple times for inciting racial hatred or anti-Semitism over the years. This month, Dieudonne agreed to abandon a controversial show banned in several French cities after angering the government. Anti-racism group Kick It Out said the FA has "spent a longer time than desirable" before charging Anelka over the incident in the globally-televised match against West Ham on Dec. 28. Anelka said after the West Ham game that the gesture was meant to show support for Dieudonne, and it was "anti-system" rather than anti-Semitic. While accepting that Anelka is not anti-Semitic, Britains Jewish security organization warned Tuesday that the "quenelle" could be directed at Jews more as a result of its use in a match. "Anelka has introduced a very ugly phenomenon into British football," the Community Security Trust said. The 34-year-old Anelka had already agreed not to perform the gesture again but has not apologized. "Anelka made a gesture which was abusive and/or indecent and/or insulting and/or improper," the FA said in a statement. "It is further alleged that this is an aggravated breach ... that it included a reference to ethnic origin and/or race and/or religion or belief." The FA introduced a minimum five-game ban for racism last year in the wake of high-profile cases that saw Liverpool striker Luis Suarez suspended for eight games and Chelsea captain John Terry for four. A three-person FA independent regulatory commission will deal with Anelkas case, and the European Jewish Congress is demanding "the strongest punishment possible." "The FA must send a very strong message that offences made against the Jewish community should be treated in the same away as offences against any other minority," EJC President Moshe Kantor said. "Anti-Semitism is a growing phenomenon in Europe, and in particular surrounding football stadiums, and hate against Jews, as with any other type of hate and intolerance, should be stamped out without demonstrating leniency to the perpetrators." West Broms shirt sponsor announced it wont be renewing their deal when it expires at the end of this season as a result of the controversy. Anelka is one of the most talented and controversial players France has produced. After growing up in a Parisian suburb, Anelka started his career at Paris Saint-Germain and was quickly spotted by Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, who signed him in 1997. Anelkas sometimes nonchalant attitude and apparent lack of commitment to the team started to anger the Arsenal fans, who gave him the nickname "Le Sulk." Anelka left Arsenal in 1999 for Real Madrid, where he won the Champions League, before moving to PSG, Liverpool, Manchester City, Fenerbahce, Bolton and Chelsea. Anelka caused the biggest controversy of his career representing France when he was sent home from the 2010 World Cup after insulting then-coach Raymond Domenech in the dressing room. His reputation had reached its nadir, but the stubborn Anelka refused to apologize and ended his international career in the wake of the scandal. Adidas Dave Taylor Jersey . -- Adrian Peterson takes a look around the league and sees big money flying everywhere. Adidas Tyler Toffoli Jersey . The 18-year-old centre was the Senators first-round pick (17th overall) in the 2013 NHL Entry Draft. The six-foot 196-pound native of Salmon Arm, B. http://www.kingshockeypro.com/adidas+dus...wn+kings+jersey. The Toronto Maple Leafs were holding a news conference, so they got curious. It didnt take long for them to find out via social media that coach Randy Carlyle was coming back — with a two-year extension — and assistants Greg Cronin, Scott Gordon and Dave Farrish were being let go. Adidas Jeff Zatkoff Jersey . After losing Brett Cecil to groin tightness on Friday, the Blue Jays watched as R. Adidas Jonathan Quick Jersey . Kerr said he had dinner with Jackson, his former coach with Chicago and the new Knicks team president, on Friday night and they talked again Saturday. Kerr is in New York to work the game between the Brooklyn Nets and Toronto Raptors for TNT.The Tambellini name is well known in the hockey world. Steve has built a solid reputation throughout the years - first as a hockey player, then as an NHL general manager and now as a scout. Hes had years of experience and knows how to handle any situation with ease. But when it comes to asserting himself into his son Adams hockey career with the Western Hockey Leagues Calgary Hitmen, the Tambellini patriarch has been silent. "Adam being an older guy and coming from a hockey family, I havent had any interaction with the family other than saying hello," said Hitmen head coach Mike Williamson. "Steve and his family know our organization (and) feel comfortable with Adam coming here. "Hes very quiet. Lets us do our business. Hes more of a fan than a dad, more so than people think." Adam is the youngest child to bear the Tambellini name. Drafted 65th overall by the New York Rangers last year, he went the collegiate route and started his rookie season with the University of North Dakota last September. But 16 games into the campaign, Adam had a change of heart. He turned to his most trusted advisors - his father and brother Jeff - for some guidance. As a family, they made the decision that Adams future was best served in the Canadian Hockey League, with its heavier schedule and more opportunity to play. The Portland Winterhawks owned Adams rights, but Adam made it known his preference was to go to Calgary. The Hitmen jumped at the chance to acquire him, trading their 2014 first-round bantam pick to get him. And it was a decision that Williamson says has already paid off. "The reason he came is because he wanted to play more hockey," he said. "To develop his consistency and play a tougher schedule and get used to that day-to-day grind. Hes come in and fit in really well. Hes given us some depth in the middle on the ice, hes given us a scoring threat, he puts the puck in the net or can set somebody else up." And Adams actions have spoke volumes. On the day he was traded to Calggary, he drove to Winnipeg and then flew to Saskatoon for his first game with the Hitmen - and finished the night with four points.ddddddddddddWhats more impressive is that in 19 games so far, he already has 27 points. "I want to get stronger and develop my game as much as possible," said Tambellini. "Playing this pro-style level, its going to lead onto the AHL and one day hopefully the NHL. Again I will be playing against men in those leagues, so getting stronger is the number one thing." At 63 and 185 pounds, Adams been told by the Rangers that he has to get stronger. Hes a known playmaker - a skilled centre who can play a two-way game and also carries a great shot. But Williamson says he has to grow into his frame and like most other junior players, he has to become more consistent. Adams also spent some time in the offseason working out with his older brother Jeff. The elder Tambellini, who played six seasons in National Hockey League before heading to MoDo of the Swedish Elite League, runs Factory Hockey, a business that helps develop hockey players from the minors up to the NHL. And while father Steve remains close to Adam, its Jeff that has been his biggest role model. "We are different players," said Adam. "He always tells me theres says theres no right or wrong way to get to the NHL. Obviously with him he didnt have the longest career but six long seasons is quite the accomplishment and I look up to him more than anyone." As for his father, Adam wants to make his own name in hockey without the help of his father. He doesnt name drop or use it to get ahead. But he does always take to heart his fathers best piece of advice, which is simply to be a pro every day on the ice and off the ice. "To me, hes just my dad, just another father who has helped me along in my hockey career," he explained. "Obviously with his background hes got ties to the hockey world. Hes been a great supporter but has been a quiet impact on my life and around the rink." Cheap Chargers Jerseys Cheap Rams Jersey Cheap Dolphins Jerseys Cheap Vikings Jerseys Cheap Patriots Jersey Cheap Saints Jerseys Cheap New York Giants Jerseys Cheap Jets Jerseys Cheap Raiders Jerseys Cheap Eagles Jerseys Cheap Steelers Jerseys CCheap 49ers Jerseys Cheap Seahawks Jerseys Cheap Buccaneers Jerseys Cheap Titans Jerseys Cheap Redskins Jerseys ' ' 'eer," he explained. "Obviously with his background hes got ties to the hockey world. Hes been a great supporter but has been a quiet impact on my life and around the rink." 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SASSUOLO, Italy -- Juventus all but clinched its third successive Serie A title by coming from behind to win 3-1 Monday at relegation-threatened Sassuolo in heavy rain. Antonio Contes side moved eight points ahead of Roma with three rounds remaining. The two sides face each other in the penultimate match of the season, but Juventus is expected to seal the title next week when it plays Atalanta at home, where it has won all 17 of its league matches this season. Juventus also remained on course to become the first Serie A club to reach the 100-point barrier. "We have taken a very important step toward a historic third title," Conte said. "We are having a super season. I hear talk about an out of this world Roma side but we are eight points ahead of them and in the Europa League semifinals. So find adjectives for us." Juventus hosts Benfica on Thursday looking to overturn a 2-1 first leg defeat in their Europa League semifinal. Simone Zaza -- who is co-owned by Juventus -- gave Sassuolo a surprise lead in ninth-minute when he finished off an electric counterattack. Nicola Sansone raced downfield before setting up Zaza, whose effort took a slight deflection off Angelo Ogbonna to beat Gianluigi Buffon at the near post. Juventus levelled in the 35th when Carlos Tevez collected the ball from Claudio Marchisio just outside the area and unleashed a fierce shot, which took a decisive deflection off Alessandro Longhi. It was Tevezs 19th of the season and leaves him two behind Torinos Ciro Immobile, the top scorer in Serie A. Claudio Marchisio fired Juventus ahead in front shortly before the hour mark after a chipped pass from Andrea Pirlo over the Sassuolo defence. And Fernando Llorente sealed the result when he finished off Stephan Lichtsteiners cross with a delightful backheel from close range 14 minutes from time. Contes jubilation after that goal and the whole teams reaction after the match expressed how close they are to the crown. "It wasnt a title celebration at the end because there is still a chance for our pursuers," Conte said. "We have to seal it in the next match, I dont like anticipating things but we took a huge step forward." Sassuolo is only above the relegation zone thanks to its head-to-head record with Bologna. Chandler Catanzaro Jersey . With the players association in the midst of meetings in Las Vegas, a vote will be held on Friday to decide the CFLPAs presidency and other executive positions. Vinny Curry Jersey . -- Phil Mickelson will be watching the final two rounds of the Masters from home for the first time in 17 years. http://www.shoptheofficialbuccaneers.com...caneers-Jersey/. - Gary Kubiak is John Elways No. Jordan Whitehead Jersey . Berdych and Stepanek played all five matches when the Czechs beat Spain 3-2 in the final last November in Prague to win the countrys first title as an independent nation. Jordan Whitehead Buccaneers Jersey . INJURIES - Reds RF Jay Bruce is facing knee surgery for a torn meniscus and it could cost him a month of playing time. Chris Heisey, who has shown some pop (43 home runs, .The Anaheim Ducks say they will not be moving goaltender Jonas Hiller any time soon. Speaking to TSN Hockey Insider Pierre LeBrun of ESPN.com on Tuesday, Ducks general manager Bob Murray made it very clear that Hiller will remain a Duck. "Theres not a chance in hell that Im moving Jonas Hiller," said Murray. "Im tired of hearing about the rumours, I can tell you Jonas is not going anywhere." Trade rumours last summer frequently mentioned Hillers name since the Swiss netminder is eligible to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1.dddddddddddd But with the Ducks putting together a superb 2013-14 campaign, Murray does not want to do anything to shake up his team. The Ducks have the leagues best record at 35-8-5 and 75 points. Hiller has been a big reason with a record of 23-4-4 along with a 2.35 GAA and three shutouts. Cheap Chargers Jerseys Cheap Rams Jersey Cheap Dolphins Jerseys Cheap Vikings Jerseys Cheap Patriots Jersey Cheap Saints Jerseys Cheap New York Giants Jerseys Cheap Jets Jerseys Cheap Raiders Jerseys Cheap Eagles Jerseys Cheap Steelers Jerseys Cheap 49ers Jerseys Cheap Seahawks Jerseys Cheap Buccaneers Jerseys Cheap Titans Jerseys Cheap Redskins Jerseys ' ' '

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! Kerry: I will give you full marks for your comments on the Pens/Bruins fiasco...100 per cent bang on...that had to be the worst display of "game management" I have seen in a while. Kerry, Im an old timer, spent about 11 years wearing the black and white stripes and saw a lot in my day. What I dont get and never will is the reluctance to allow Linesman to be more involved in decision making. And no I am not talking about having them watch for more, Lord knows with the speed of the game they already have their hands full. HOWEVER, how many times have we seen blatant offences with NO call only to wind up with supplementary discipline? It happens routinely and you cannot tell me that in many of these cases one of the Linesmen did not see the blatant offence occur? Case in point: Phaneufs hit on Sunday night...how in the world do 4 (four) sets of eyes not see that as a direct hit from behind...no call but he has a hearing! And I am a LIFELONG Leaf fan! Point is if they (the League) are REALLY serious about cleaning up the game, then the culture amongst Officials has to change. You have four sets of eyes out there they should USE them and it can be done with undue burden...as I pointed out, not asking them to LOOK for more, but when they see it, they need to be able to call it. It is called "CHECKING YOUR EGO AT THE DOOR". This should not be a slight against the Referees...the game has changed dramatically. Its faster, harder, players are bigger and more mobile - its time to catch up. Cheers Kerry,Jeff Baldwin Jeff:Thank you for the thought-provoking question. You too sir are bang on with regard to many of the shortcomings that we see take place on almost a nightly basis in the current two-referee system. I have to question an apparent lack of coaching and the accountability process that NHL Officials are currently being held to when we witness similar plays that are often misjudged or missed. From your experience as a referee Jeff, you know that you have to position yourself in advance of the play to acquire the best possible sight line to make the call. I have made reference to this crucial aspect of officiating on many occasions in this column. When a call is missed, the referee most directly responsible for that call often has an obstructed view of the play. Yes, the game is faster and the players are certainly bigger, but there are too many "puck watchers" currently wearing black and white stripes that dont see the game in advance. Given the human factor, we know (and can accept) that calls will be missed; after all nobodys perfect. There are also a number of infractions currently in the rule book that Linesmen are allowed to call (hits from behind like the one Phaneuf delivered on Kevan Miller being one of them!) Linesmen have a difficult and specific job of their own to do; one that is very important and can also impact a game. Conferences between the four officials take place whenever a goal is scored and there is a question that goalkeeper interference took place or to determine if the puck was shot directly over the glass. A correct decision has often been rendered through these types of meetings of the minds. Many of the young NHL Officials have been fast-tracked through a two-referee system where they never really had to fend for themselves. There was always another person to rely on which inhibited their growth and experience as a young referee. I maintain that to be most effective, a ref has to work like he is the only set of eyes on the ice. He should want to see everything that takes place with his head on swivel even though he is responsible for certain specific areas of coverage in the two-referee system. The better referees in the NHL work within the current system to support their partner but also like they are the sole referee in the game. The confidence and authority of the modern day NHL referee has gradually been eroded through the safety net and hands on approach that the Hockey Operations Department exerts over both the officials and the Officiating Department. Telephones installed in the officials dressing room provide a direct link to the Toronto Situation Room. The "hot line" can ring between periods if Hockey Operations personnel deem it necessary to provide input to the officials. The last time I checked, while many of them were excellent players, none of them refereed a game in the league! Far too many times I see minor penalties assessed for what should easily be judged as a major or match infraction such as James Neals knee to the head of Brad Marchand. Either the referees judgment needs considerable tweaking or they prefer to rely on supplementary discipline to suspend a player if the Player Safety Committee deems it violent enough. Video review is an excellent tool to verify the scoring of a legal goal but that decision also is taken out of the referees hands and electronically transported to Toronto. That is of course, unless the Situation Room cant make a clear and firm decision in which case an "inconclusive verdict" throws the call back in the referees lap who has yet to see a replay of the incident. I dont think its so much about checking ones ego at door Jeff. I believe its more about developing proper coaching techniques and to empower the officials to be the very best that they can be. While there are a number of officials that do a terrific job there is much work that is required in this area. The NHL Officials, to a man, are good and dedicated people. They deserve the very best opportunity to succeed. Its in the best interest of the game they are given the proper tools to do so. Patrick Roberts Jersey . And I wanted to take this opportunity to share some of my experiences gained through International competition and the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano, Japan. Seven NHL referees and six linesmen will be assigned upcoming games in Sochi by the IIHF as part of their 28-man officiating roster comprised of 14 refs and 14 linesmen. David Silva Jersey . - Olympic champion Marielle Thompson accomplished her mission of defending her skicross World Cup title at Nakiska Ski Area on Saturday. http://www.authenticmanchestercityshop.c...er-City-Jersey/. Arsenal had already scored its goals in the third round fixture when the fierce rivalry turned ugly in the final ten minutes as Walcott was being carried off on a stretcher. Fabian Delph Jersey . - Roger Federer squandered a big lead and lost to No. Ilkay Gundogan Jersey .com) - Driphus Jackson had three touchdown passes, including two in a 19-second span in the opening quarter, to guide Rice to a 30-6 rout of Fresno State at the Hawaii Bowl.The Tampa Bay Lightning have traded their leading scorer, Martin St. Louis, to the New York Rangers in exchange for their captain, Ryan Callahan along with a 2015 first-round and a conditional 2014 second-round draft pick. Should the Rangers advance to the 2014 Eastern Conference Final, the 2014 second-rounder would become a first-round pick. In the event Callahan should re-sign with the Lightning, the Rangers would receive Tampa Bays second-round pick at the 2015 NHL Draft while the Lightning would receive the Rangers seventh-round draft pick in 2015. St. Louis had been the Lightnings leader in both goals (29) and points (61) this season prior to being traded. The 38-year-old St. Louis was rumoured to have wanted out of Tampa Bay after being left off the initial Team Canada Olympic roster by Lightning general manager Steve Yzerman. St. Louis was later named to the team as Steven Stamkos injury replacement. "Wed like to thank Marty for everything he has done on and off the ice during his outstanding 13-year career in Tampa Bay," said Yzerman. "He has been one of the greatest players in the organizations history but in the end we honored his request today. We wish him and his family the best of luck as he continues his career in New York." St. Louis in third season of a four-year deal he signed with the Lightning prior to the 2010-2011 season worth an average annual value of $5.625 million. In 45 games with the Rangers this season, Callahan has scored 11 goals and 14 assists. Eligible for unrestricted free agency at seasons end, Callahan carries a salary cap hit for 2013-14 of $4.275 million. He and the Rangers have been unable to agree on a contract extension, with his salary demands believed to be in excess of $6.5 million per season on a long-term deal. Callahan and the Rangers were about $200,000 per year apart in contract talks before the trade was made with the lack of a no-trade clause apparently a big issue. "We never felt our request for Callahan was without support of other contracts, Dustin Brown, Miku Koivu etc.dddddddddddd," said Callahans agent Steve Bartlett. "Also, after Rangers gave permission to talk to other teams, I knew I could get a contract done, so confirmed asking price or term not out of line. Also, as we neared the deadline we made every effort to get closer to their number and agreed to Rangers term of 6 years, we never got a handle on the no trade issue and it would make zero sense to give up UFA to sign and be subject to trade." "The Lightning are very excited to have Ryan Callahan join the organization and help us in our quest to make the playoffs," said Yzerman. "Ryan is an outstanding player and leader who we look forward to seeing on the ice tomorrow night." Originally undrafted, St. Louis has fought his way to a long and productive NHL career, scoring 369 goals and 604 assissts in 1,041 career games with the Lightning and Calgary Flames. A six-time NHL All-Star, St. Louis is the reigning Art Ross Trophy-winner for most points in the 2012-13 NHL season. He has twice won the Art Ross, his previous win coming in the 2003-04 season in which he also won the Hart Memorial Trophy and Lester B. Pearson Awards for Most Valuable Player as voted by the Professional Hockey Writers Association and the NHL players, respectively. St. Louis won a Stanley Cup with the Lightning in 2004 and has won the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy as the NHLs Most Gentlemanly Player in three of the past four NHL seasons. Callahan, 28, is in his eighth NHL season, all with the Rangers. Callahan is a three-time 20-goal scorer with a career-high 29 in 2011-12 when he also set a personal best in points with 61.He has scored 132 goals and 122 assists in 450 career games Selected in the fourth round (127th overall) at the 2004 NHL Entry Draft, Callahan has been selected to represent the United States at two Olympic Games. He was named the Rangers 26th team captain in September of 2011. 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