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PITTSBURGH -- Isaac Redman could do the math. Justin Faulk Hurricanes Jersey . Nearing final cuts on Sunday, the Pittsburgh Steelers fifth-year running back looked at the crowded depth chart and figured somebodys feelings were going to get hurt. "I know that somebody had to go," Redman said. "After being around here for a while, you understand how it goes, and I knew somebody had to go this year." And despite missing the final two games of the preseason while recovering from a neck injury, it wasnt Redman. Instead, the Steelers cut Jonathan Dwyer -- the teams leading rusher in 2012 -- and handed Redman the starting job for the season opener against Tennessee on Sunday while second-round pick LeVeon Bell works his way back from a sprained right foot. "We know what Isaac is capable of," coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday. "Hes answered the bell for us in the past and we expect him to do it in a big way moving forward starting this weekend." When healthy, Redman can be a force. He ran for 410 yards and two scores last year and played well in a 26-23 loss to the Titans, catching four passes for 105 yards. Ankle problems, however, kept Redman from establishing himself as the starter. He rumbled for 147 yards a touchdown in a victory over the New York Giants -- the high water mark of an 8-8 season -- but went right back to the sidelines after getting knicked up again. Redman slimmed down to 230 pounds over the winter, believing more quickness would also make him more durable. That part remains to be seen. Redman sustained a stinger during training camp and carried the ball two times during the entire preseason. Though Tomlin insists Redman will be "spelled" by newly acquired Felix Jones and third-down specialist LaRod Stephens-Howling, Redman thinks a steady dose of carries will help him get into a rhythm. "The games that Ive been able to stay in the whole entire game, Ive done very well," he said. "Its just, well, Im not going to make an excuse. But its hard to carry the ball twice, maybe two series, then Dwyer go in for two series." That wont be an issue anymore after the Steelers cut the only running back who managed to stay out of the trainers room during August. Yet Dwyers weight fluctuations and questionable conditioning apparently made him expendable. Tomlin declined to elaborate on the decision to release Dwyer, instead pointing to the drafting of Bell and the additions of Jones and Stephens-Howling. "We like the guys that we kept and really our focus is on those guys," he said. Even if Bell will not be one of "those guys" on Sunday. While Bell is out of a walking boot after injuring the foot in a preseason loss to Washington last month, Tomlin ruled Bell out this weekend and remained vague about any real timetable for the rookies return. "Young guys like him have to practice in order to be able to participate," Tomlin said. "At the very best, he would be a partial participant this week." The same goes for veteran tight end Heath Miller. The two-time Pro Bowler was activated off the Physically Unable to Perform List over the weekend but Tomlin wants to see how Millers body responds to the increased workload before making any sort of decision on Millers availability. While Bell and Miller are questionable, rookie linebacker Jarvis Jones appears ready to make his NFL debut. Jones sat out last weeks preseason finale with a bruised chest but the first-round pick will see plenty of time backing up Jason Worilds and LaMarr Woodley. Tomlin remains concerned about the special teams, a weakness during Pittsburghs winless exhibition season. Neither incumbent Drew Butler or three-time Pro Bowler Brian Moorman distinguished themselves and while Butler survived the final cuts, the victory was short lived when the Steelers signed former New England Patriot punter Zoltan Mesko on Monday. "He is a high-pedigree guy, one that was highly regarded out of Michigan, a fifth-round pick," Tomlin said. "Hes a long guy, a left-footer. He is no stranger to the elements, having kicked in New England in the professional ranks and at the University of Michigan in college ... All those things were attractive to us." ---- NOTES: The Steelers placed TE Matt Spaeth (foot) on the injured reserve/return list on Tuesday afternoon. Spaeth will be eligible to come off the list after the eighth week of the regular season, which concludes on Oct. 28. Pittsburgh filled Spaeths spot on the 53-man roster by activating LB Terence Garvin from the practice squad. Victor Rask Jersey . "After consultation with the Team USA medical staff and officials, it was determined that he should return to Winnipeg as a precaution due to his previous injury history," Jets general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff said Wednesday in a statement. Sebastian Aho Hurricanes Jersey . Canada will host Japan in a World Group first-round match in 2015. It will be a rematch of their first-round clash last year when Japan defeated Canada 4-1 to reach the World Group quarter-finals for the first time in its history.Concord, NC (SportsNetwork.com) - Sam Hornish Jr. is heading back to the Sprint Cup Series full time in 2015. Richard Petty Motorsports announced on Wednesday that Hornish will join the racing organization to drive the No. 9 Ford in Sprint Cup next season. He will replace Marcos Ambrose in the No. 9 after Ambrose informed the team last month that he is returning to his native home of Australia at seasons end to compete in the Australian V8 Supercar Series, driving an entry for NASCAR and IndyCar Series team owner Roger Penske. Hornish has not competed in Sprint Cup full time since 2010 when he drove for Team Penske. Having the opportunity to drive for Richard Petty Motorsports is great for me, Hornish said during a teleconference on Wednesday. Its just awesome. Im looking forward to knowing all the guys on the No. 9 team and everybody at RPM. Hornish has competed in three full seasons in Sprint Cup as well as two full seasons in the Nationwide Series for Penske. In 2013, he finished second in the Nationwide championship standings, just three points behind champion Austin Dillon. Hornish has driven a partial schedule for Joe Gibbs Racing in NASCARs second-tier series this season. He won at Iowa Speedway in May. Prior to his stock car racing career, Hornish competed in IndyCar, wiinning 19 races, including the 2006 Indianapolis 500, and claiming three series championships. Jaccob Slavin Jersey. Hornish has 131 career starts in Sprint Cup, including one start this season. He substituted for Denny Hamlin in JGRs No. 11 car in the March 23 race at Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, California. Hamlin missed the event due to an eye injury. Hornish finished 17th. I feel like Im a lot better prepared, Hornish said of his upcoming full- time return to Sprint Cup. Ive been able to work with quite a few different crew chiefs over the past couple of years. That has allowed me to better understand whats going through those guys heads and pick up things that I like from one crew chief to the next. Drew Blickensderfer will serve as Hornishs crew chief next year. Blickensderfer currently serves in the role for Ambrose. Sam is a really good fit for RPM and will be a great addition to the team, team co-owner Richard Petty said. Hes a family man who fits well with our core values, and he will be a great ambassador for our partners. Sam is also proven that he can win races and compete for a championship. He came into the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series with a steep learning curve from open wheel racing, but has shown in the Nationwide Series that he is a winner. 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World javelin silver medallist Ihab Abdelrahman has been banned from the Rio Games by Egypt’s national Olympic Committee after testing positive for a banned substance. Dante Exum Jersey . The 27-year-old, who secured a silver in Beijing last year, tested positive in April and was temporarily suspended, although he has protested his innocence.The tests were analysed in Barcelona and the athlete was asked to travel to the Spanish city but refused and asked for a second test to be taken after the Rio Games. Mamduh al-Shishtawi, the executive director of the Egyptian Olympics Committee, told AFP that Abdelrahman has therefore been excluded from the team.Doping has been to the forefront of the news in the run-up to Rio, with Russias participation already under fierce scrutiny over state-sponsored doping.Another Egyptian athlete, hammer thrower Mostafa Al-Gamel, will miss the Games because of injury. Also See: Putin: Olympic ban discrimination Russian judo team get all clear Adrian Dantley Jazz Jersey .Manager Brendan Rodgers told the Liverpool Echo on Friday that Sturridge pulled his calf muscle in training as he prepared to return from a five-week layoff due to a thigh strain. Rudy Gobert Jersey .C. -- Carter Ashton had a pair of goals and added an assist as the Toronto Marlies downed the Charlotte Checkers 5-2 on Saturday in the American Hockey League.The Pittsburgh Penguins have agreed to a one-year, $1 million contract with free agent forward Steve Downie. Downie scored four goals and 24 points in 62 games with the Colorado Avalanche and Philadelphia Flyers in 2013-2014. The Flyers acquired Downie in October in exchange forr veteran forward Maxime Talbot. Alec Burks Jazz Jersey. The 27-year-old has scored 59 goals and 162 points in 336 career NHL games with the Flyers, Tampa Lightning and Colorado Avalanche. He was drafted in the first round, 29th overall, of the 2005 NHL Draft by the Flyers. Cheap NFL Jerseys Cheap NFL Jerseys China Cheap Jerseys From ChinaCheap NFL Jerseys Authentic Wholesale Jerseys China Cheap NFL Jerseys China NFL Cheap Jerseys ' ' '
(SportsNetwork. Hugo Lloris Jersey UK .com) - The Dallas Mavericks traded for Rajon Rondo on Thursday, dealing three players and two draft picks to the Boston Celtics for the All- Star point guard, according to multiple reports. The Mavericks landed Rondo amid reports the Celtics were talking to several other teams about a possible trade, including the Houston Rockets and Los Angeles Lakers. They also acquired rookie forward Dwight Powell, sending point guard Jameer Nelson, forwards Brandan Wright and Jae Crowder and future first- and second- round draft picks to Boston. Rondo, 28, is due to be an unrestricted free agent after this season but has indicated to the Mavericks that he would sign a contract extension next summer, Yahoo Sports reported. Rondo was the last of the core group that led the Celtics to an NBA title in 2008, following Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen out the door. He was in his ninth season with Boston, but has played just 90 games over the last three because of various injuries, most recently a broken hand and a torn ACL. The former first-round draft pick is still filling stat sheets. He has an NBA-best three triple-doubles and is averaging a league-high 10.8 assists along with 8.3 points and 7.5 rebounds this season. Dallas made the deal while in third place in the Southwest Division, where it trails both Memphis and Houston. Reigning NBA champion San Antonio and upstart New Orleans round out the NBAs toughest division. The Mavericks signed Nelson in July after he spent his first 10 seasons with the Orlando Magic and the 32-year-old point guard averaged 7.3 points and 4.1 assists in 23 games for them. Wright, 27, is averaging 8.8 points and 4.1 rebounds in his seventh NBA season and Crowder, 24, is averaging 3.6 points in his third. Powell, a second-round draft pick out of Stanford, appeared in five games for the Celtics, scoring nine points in nine minutes. Tottenham Hotspur Jersey UK . The Redblacks host the Hamilton Tiger-Cats (7-9) Friday night in their last home game of the year and as of Thursday afternoon, the team was anticipating a ninth consecutive sellout. You can watch all the action on TSN1, TSN3, TSN4, and TSN5 beginning at 7:30pm et/4:30pm pt. Nacer Chadli Hotspur Jersey UK . The Philadelphia left fielder clubbed a tiebreaking, solo home run in the seventh inning, and the Phillies edged the Red Sox, 2-1, in the middle test of a three-game interleague series at Citizens Bank Park.MINNEAPOLIS - The Super Bowl has been secured. Now the Minnesota Vikings have set their sights on soccer. With construction underway on their new stadium, the Vikings have intensified their pursuit of a Major League Soccer franchise for the NFL facility that team owners designed in hopes of accommodating both sports. Co-owner Mark Wilf met this week with MLS officials, the latest dialogue between the two parties. The Vikings also announced a partnership with promoter Relevent Sports, a major player in the soccer world that is helping sell an international tournament game between two European teams to be played at the University of Minnesota in August. "We like to go to new markets," Revelant Sports CEO Charlie Stillitano said Wednesday. "It seems like wherever we go an MLS team follows, and I think its a good thing." Most MLS teams, 15 of the current 19, play in soccer-specific stadiums for around 20,000 fans in a more intimate setting, but the Vikings have been touting their plan to classily cover the upper bowl of their new venue and reduce capacity from 65,000 to between 20,000 and 25,000. The translucent roof and five pivoting glass doors on the front of the building -- plus seats and suites close to the action -- give the facility a more vibrant feel. "Theres a real opportunity there, and we really have a lot of respect and admiration for the ownership group," MLS Commissioner Don Garber said earlier this year. Atlanta will begin play in 2017 at that citys new retractable roof NFL stadium to be built for the Falcons, whose owner Arthur Blank acquired the soccer club. Plans there will convert the 71,000-seat football facility to a soccer capacity of 29,000 by only using the lower bowl. With the regular season starting in March and the MLS Cup held in December, a roof would be ideal for a team in Minnesota. When Sporting KC won the championship game outside last year, the game-time temperature in Kansas City was 22 degrees with a wind chill of 12 that plummeted as the sun set. The MLS has added five teams in thhe last five years with a goal of 24, and New York City and Orlando will make 21 next season. Harry Kane Jersey UK. Miami has also granted a franchise to former star David Beckham, contingent on a soccer-specific stadium being built there. That only leaves one spot left, and Garber said earlier this year Sacramento, California, San Antonio and San Diego are also under consideration. MLS executive vice-president for communications Dan Courtemanche said theres no specific deadline for awarding the next franchise. "There is no shortage of demand for future MLS expansion teams, and many markets and potential ownership groups have contacted the league office to inquire," he said. Criteria for MLS expansion include a committed local viable ownership group with a comprehensive stadium plan it controls, in an appropriate market attractive to sponsors and television networks with a history of strong fan support. The Twin Cities area currently has a team, Minnesota United FC, in the North American Soccer League, a level below the MLS. "We think our stadium is the perfect fit for MLS. We also think that Minneapolis-St. Paul has tremendous potential for MLS," Vikings vice-president for public affairs and stadium development Lester Bagley said. The legislation authorizing funding for the stadium included a five-year window from the opening during which the Wilfs have exclusive rights to bring an MLS franchise to the venue. That doesnt mean another group couldnt beat them to it at another site. Minnesota United owner Bill McGuire, the former CEO of United Health Group, has been linked with Minnesota Twins owner Jim Pohlad as potential partners in an MLS franchise. But that would require money for and construction of yet another new sports facility in a crowded market. Vikings officials will use the Aug. 2 match between Manchester City FC and Olympiacos FC, part of the Guinness Cup tournament, as an opportunity to gain more knowledge of and grassroots support for the sport. About 20,000 tickets have been sold so far, Stillitano said. 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COLUMBUS – The Maple Leafs continue to search for an identity. Pat Elflein Youth Jersey . On a chilly Friday evening in Columbus, that reality was hammered home once more. The Leafs fell for the third time in the past four games, outworked by the Blue Jackets in a 5-2 loss at Nationwide Arena. A fast, physical, determined bunch in 2013 en route to the first playoff berth in nine years, the group this fall has bared only a passing resemblance to that identity so far. “We know what it was – I think everybody knows what it was,” Jay McClement said of the teams identity in conversation with the Leaf Report following the latest loss. “Were struggling to live up to that every night I think right now.” There were signs of that identity emerging in a hearty 4-2 win against Anaheim on Tuesday night. Though they started slowly with the Ducks in town – just two shots in the first frame – the Leafs got to playing a harder, more refined game as they took control of the final two periods en route to their seventh victory this season. It appeared to be a potential starting point. “For the most part, the last game we played was probably back to our identity and then we come out tonight and you dont really see any resemblance of it,” said McClement, second among Toronto forwards with upwards of 21 minutes against the Blue Jackets. “Its just a consistency in getting that game back. Its all the things we talked about all year last year; just being a physical team, a forechecking team, and playing fast.” Stumbling starts have become an increasingly concerning part of the equation. Friday was the fourth time in five games that the Leafs (sans Joffrey Lupul, who was nursing a bruised right foot) have managed five shots or fewer in the first frame, a mere five against Sergei Bobrosky within a sloppy, uninspired opening 20 minutes which saw Columbus draw 16 shots and a 1-0 lead. “Just seems to be one of those things,” said James van Riemsdyk. “Every game we come out and get outshot 16-3 in the first period and then start to play a little bit better. Usually when you do that you dont leave yourself much breathing room to find ways to win games. We definitely didnt play anywhere close to our abilities tonight.” “If I had the answer to that,” Randy Carlyle said with a sigh of his teams sluggish starts. “I wish I did have the answer to that.” Concerned with his teams performance throughout an uneven and yet successful start, Carlyle called for an improved work ethic prior to the win over Anaheim. “Our work ethic has to be elevated to a point where we can create more of an identity for ourselves,” he said on Tuesday morning. “I dont know if we can say what type of hockey club we are yet.” Recovering from their off-kilter start – Jonathan Bernier stopped 22 of the first 23 shots – the Leafs entered the third frame on Friday even at one. But after a quick goal from Marian Gaborik and a shorthanded back-breaker from Brandon Dubinsky, any hope of success was all but extinguished. “Were 11 games in and were nowhere near the peak of playing our best hockey,” said van Riemsdyk of his group, now 7-4-0 on the year. “Obviously we know we have a lot of work to do.” The Leafs established a physical presence last year by being a quick and often relentless group on the forecheck, wearing opponents down by mucking it up in the corners. They would chip pucks, chase, and grind. And in conjunction with solid special teams, sturdy goaltending and a lot of offence – the Leafs were a poor defensive team at even-strength – theyd win a fair number of games. “We think as a forechecking hockey club that you dont go in and swing by people, you go in and take the body,” said Carlyle before the Friday loss. “Thats probably the mandate that were going to try and play to. I would say that we havent done a very good job of that … Were a team still trying to find its identity.” The wins were there early this year – six in the first seven games – despite underlying concerns, but of late those results have turned; three losses now in the past four games with the daunting Penguins in town on Saturday. The search continues for who and what the Leafs are. “Weve got to start with being prepared mentally to play that game,” McClement said. “I just think we cant rest on that identity, we have to earn that identity every night. “You have to live up to it. Thats how teams expect us to play. Its disappointing when we dont play like that because thats how we can win games.” Five Points 1. Long-awaited debut David Clarkson played just under 16 minutes in his Maple Leafs debut. The 29-year-old began the night alongside Dave Bolland and Jay McClement, eventually finishing the proceedings with Nazem Kadri and Mason Raymond. Clarkson finished with four shots, whistled for hooking on his third shift of the game. “I think he looked rusty,” said Carlyle of Clarkson, who hadnt played since Sept. 27 in the preseason. [But] the one thing you know [is] hes going to try.” “No I didnt feel that,” said Clarkson of any rust in spite of a month-long layoff. “Thats maybe what Randy feels. Getting used to playing with guys, minutes, I guess youd have to ask him those questions.” Clarkson did present some of the promised elements in his first action with the club. He was a force in some instances on the forecheck and proved an irritant at times. 2. Alarming starts “The first period wasnt us at all,” McClement said of the teams start against the Blue Jackets. Sluggish first periods have become all too familiar for the Leafs in the past 10 days or so. A mere three shots were on the clock in the opening frame against the Wild, three shots during a clash with the Blackhawks, two shots against the Ducks and five shots against Columbus most recently. Overall this season the Leafs have been outshot 125-92 in first periods, outscored 10-7. 3. Clarksons evolution Though he remains a pesky presence, Clarkson has evolved from the player who first entered the league with New Jersey in 2007. “I fought my way into the league,” he said before his debut with the Leafs on Friday. “Thats still part of my game, but I think the more I got used to the level and everything I think the game started coming together for me.” A look at Clarksons fighting history reveals such a shift. “Definitely when I was younger there was more fighting or agitating, but I still dont shy away from that now,” he said. Year Fighting Majors* 2007-08 21 2008-09 20 2009-10 9 2011-12 7 2013 6 *HockeyFights.com 4. Subtle adjustments with a new team Just weeks into his Leafs career, Bernier continues to adjust to the style of his new team and more specifically, the defence core. As the backup to Jonathan Quick for years in Los Angeles, Bernier “had to step in on what [Jonathan] Quick liked” as far as working with the teams defenders. “Obviously when youre a backup its different,” he told the Leaf Report earlier this week. “When the guy plays a lot you have to read what hes doing so when you step in its going to be the same thing.” Now in Toronto and a competitor for the No. 1 job, Bernier is trying to assert his own preferences. Because he intends to square up every shooter, the 25-year-old wants to ensure that back-door assignments are handled by his defenders. Adjustments typically come through game experience. “It has to happen on the play,” he said of hashing out any changes. “Lets say I get beat in the game and Ill be like ‘Look I think thats going to work for us if we do this. It takes time to adjust.” “I dont know about the other D, but Im talking to Bernier every day about positioning when theres a point shot, when hes out playing the puck, all that,” Carl Gunnarsson told the Leaf Report. “If we let the back-door pass through its going to be a tough one for him right … Weak-side, weve got to make sure weve got the guy, at least tie up his stick and try to box out so he sees it. “Just trying to figure out what he wants because in the end hes the guy whos doing all the work back there.” 5. Rielly Morgan Rielly played his ninth game with the Leafs on Friday. When he suits up against the Penguins on Saturday night he will have exercised the first year of his entry-level contract. The 19-year-old will have additionally secured one year towards eventual arbitration rights (four are required). The next big hurdle for Rielly is the 40-game plateau. After 40 games on the active roster (even those he doesnt play), Rielly will have garnered one “accrued” season in the NHL, thus initiating the clock on his path toward unrestricted free agency. With seven accrued seasons in the league (or the age of 27), players qualify for UFA status. Stat-Pack 23:05 – Ice-time for Cody Franson versus Columbus, leading the team. 12-41 – Combined mark on the draw for Tyler Bozak and Dave Bolland against the Blue Jackets. Bozak finished 9-26, continuing his year-long struggles, Bolland far off the mark with a 3-15 showing. 43.7 per cent – Leafs overall mark on faceoffs this season, second-worst in the NHL. 15:41 – Ice-time for David Clarkson in his Leafs debut. 36 – Shots for Columbus. 10 – Number of games the Leafs have yielded 30-plus shots this season. 21:33 – Minutes for Jay McClement against Columbus, a season-high. 31 – Saves for Jonathan Bernier. Special Teams Capsule PP: 0-3 PK: 5-6 Quote of the Night “You have to live up to it. Thats how teams expect us to play. Its disappointing when we dont play like that because thats how we can win games.” -Jay McClement on the Leafs identity. Up Next The Leafs host Sidney Crosby and the Penguins at the ACC on Saturday.Ben Gedeon Jersey . - Andre Drummond had his best night on the boards. Pat Elflein Womens Jersey . The post-season, Pierce said repeatedly, is no time to panic. And the Heat, apparently, are nothing to fear.The Oscar Pistorius murder trial is underway. On the first day of trial, Michelle Burger, a neighbour of Pistorius, took the stand and set the stage for the prosecutions case. She testified that she heard Reeva Steenkamp cry for help. "I was sitting in bed and I heard her screams," Burger testified. "She screamed terribly and she yelled for help. I heard the screams again. It was worse. It was more intense. Just after her screams, I heard four shots. Four gun-shots... You could hear it was blood curdling screams. You cant translate it into words. The anxiousness in her voice, and fear. It leaves you cold. She screamed terribly and she yelled for help." We know that Pistorius has admitted to killing Steenkamp. The issue being determined at trial is whether he killed her intentionally, or as Pistorius alleges, he killed her by accident. This is his version: "During the early hours of the morning I brought two fans in from the balcony. I had shortly before spoken to Reeva who was in bed beside me. Unbeknown to me, Reeva must have gone to the toilet in the bathroom at the time I brought in the fans, closed the sliding doors and drew the blinds and the curtains. I heard the bathroom window sliding open, I believed that an intruder or intruders had entered the bathroom through the bathroom window which was not fitted with burglar bars. I approached the bathroom armed with my firearm, so as to defend Reeva and I. At that time I believed Reeva was still in the bed. The discharging of my firearm was precipitated by a noise in the toilet which I, in my fearful state, knowing I was on my stumps, unable to run away or properly defend myself physically believed to be the intruder or intruders coming out of the toilet to attack Reeva and me." So lets address some of the more important parts of the trial. Understanding the Charges The key charge against Pistorius is premeditated murder. Premeditated murder requires an intent to murder plus planning the murder. Based upon what we know, expect the prosecution to have a tough time establishing premeditated murder. As support for the charge, the prosecution will argue that the act was planned (or premeditated) since he took the time to put on his prosthetic legs before walking to the bathroom and firing four deadly shots. However, that by itself wont likely be enough to establish the requisite planning element. Premeditation is reserved for more robust planning and generally doesnt capture an intent that materialized right before a crime was committed. For those that like precedents, in the case of State v. Raath, a South African Court ruled that a father forcing his son to remove a firearm from the safe to kill the sons mother was not sufficient to constitute premeditated murder. However, that doesnt mean Pistorius walks. Not even close. Even if the prosecution cant make out premeditated murder, it can still get Pistorius on the lesser charge of murder. In order establish murder, they only need to show that he intended to kill Steenkamp (no planning element needed). Should the prosecution fail on murder, there is another lesser charge that could come into play: culpable homicide. This charge means that Pistorius negligently killed Steenkamp (or that the killing was an accident). And this is what Pistorius is alleging - he killed Steenkamp by accident. He thought she was an intruder. Prison Time Premeditated murder would get Pistorius a compulsory life sentence, while murder would result in a compulsory sentence of 15 years. For culpable homicide, the sentencing is discretionary (varies from fines to prison time), although its not unusual to see prison time in South Africa of 5-10 years for this type of crime. No Jury System & Judge Masipa South Africa does not have a jury sysstem. Jaleel Johnson Jersey. Juries at times render unexpected or unusual decisions. They can also be swayed by public sentiment and emotion, while also potentially distracted by celebrity and irrelevant facts. A judge, however, is more likely to focus on the facts and make a ruling based upon those facts. The judge is charged with ensuring a just result and on that basis, will carefully review and consider all the facts of a case. Judge Thokozile Masipa is presiding over the trial. Masipa has a reputation for being tough on cases that involve crimes against women. In May 2013, Masipa ordered serial rapist Shepherd Moyo to serve a jail sentence of 252 year sentence. She hoped the sentence would serve as a "deterrent." Given her intolerance for violence against women, Judge Masipa is perhaps not the ideal judge for Pistorius. South Africa, by the way, has the highest reported rate globally of females murdered by shooting in a country not engaged in war. Thats another reason this case matters. The Case The trial has only just begun. More witnesses will testify and further evidence will be presented. So its tough to know how this will end for Pistorius. Still, there are a number of improbabilities with Pistorius version of the events. How did he not know Steenkamp was not in bed when he walked right by her? Wouldnt Steenkamp have yelled in the bathroom after the first shot was discharged? As well, witnesses have reported seeing the lights on, contradicting Pistorius account that it was pitch dark in his room. As well, Steenkamps wounds suggest she was not sitting on toilet on left hand side of bathroom but rather on right side of bathroom. This suggests she was hiding from Pistorius. Also key is whether Pistorius and Steenkamp argued that night. The prosecution has already produced witnesses who testified that they heard shouting and screaming. This helps the prosecutions argument that this was a quarrel that tragically escalated to murder. As well, the couples mobile phone records could provide helpful insight as to what happened that night. Steenkamp is said to have had her phone with her in the bathroom when she was shot. Was she contacting the authorities or friends for help as an enraged Pistorius charged toward her? It is unusual for someone to take their phone to the bathroom in the middle of the night (unless they feel threatened) and the prosecution will undoubtedly raise that. There is more. Pistorius told authorities he could not remember the password to his own cell phone. As a result, authorities took the phone to Apple headquarters to have it unlocked. This raises the possibility that Pistorius may have been hiding incriminating messages. Forensic evidence will also be presented, which can be quite effective in piecing together what really happened that night. For example, each drop of blood in the bathroom can help determine if Steenkamp was sitting, standing or moving at the time she was shot. Pistorius rage issues will also come into play. As for the defence, they will argue that the shooting was a tragic mistake - but a mistake nonetheless. They will also focus on contradictions and inconsistencies in statements made by witnesses to police and their answers in court. In fact they have started challenging witnesses, attacking not only their recollection of events, but also the plausibility of their claims that they could hear the couple argue from their homes. Pistorius claims lack believability and veracity. Ultimately, it would not be a surprise to see Pistorius convicted of murder and sentenced to 15 years in jail, particularly with a Judge like Masipa presiding over the trial. That being said, there is still a lot of track to cover and much evidence to consider. Still, Pistorius is facing an uphill battle.Cheap NFL Jerseys Cheap NFL Jerseys China Cheap Jerseys From China Cheap NFL Jerseys Authentic Wholesale Jerseys China Cheap NFL Jerseys China NFL Cheap Jerseys ' ' '
SALT LAKE CITY -- Tony Parker scored 14 of his 22 points in the fourth quarter to rally the San Antonio Spurs to a 91-82 win over the Utah Jazz on Friday night. Jabrill Peppers Browns Jersey . Boris Diaw scored a season-high 17 points and Tim Duncan added 14 to help the Spurs run their winning streak to seven in a game that matched the team with the best record in the Western Conference against the team with worst mark in the league. The Jazz took a 67-60 lead into the fourth quarter, but the Spurs started doing what they do best -- driving the lane for layups or hitting the spot-up shooters in the short corners. Derrick Favors had 20 points and 18 rebounds for Utah, which led by as many 15 points early in the game. Gordon Hayward added 15 points and Richard Jefferson had 14. Danny Green hit two 3-pointers, Diaw hit another and Parker converted a three-point play in the first two minutes of the final period to give the Spurs their first lead since the opening quarter. Although it was San Antonios fifth game in seven nights, the Spurs were stronger down the stretch. The Jazz were flying all over the court but couldnt hit their shots (7 for 25 on field goals in the fourth quarter) while the Spurs let Parker go to work penetrating, passing and scoring. Parker hit a free throw to give the Spurs an 83-75 lead with 4:38 remaining and the Jazz never got closer. Utah outrebounded San Antonio 50-43 and had 20 second-chance points to two for the Spurs, but their lack of accuracy led to yet another loss. The Jazz shot 38.5 per cent in the game. After Utah jetted to a 29-14 lead after one quarter, Diaw scored 10 points to draw the Spurs within 40-37 in the second. Alec Burks, who has played almost exclusively at the 2-guard, started at the point and got into foul trouble guarding Parker and finished with 12 points. The Jazz were the last team in the league to get its first win when they defeated New Orleans 111-105 Wednesday, but the fourth-quarter touch they enjoyed in that one was not apparent Friday. Utah is the worst shooting team in the NBA. Duncan was averaging 7.0 points on 5-of-27 shooting in his last three games, but played a season-high 34 minutes against Utah and had nine rebounds and three blocked shots. San Antonio allows fewer than 90 points per game and became extra stingy, continually denying Jazz forays to the hoop at the end. NOTES: After Duncan was rejected by Favours on one play and then aggressively defended by the Utah forward on another in the first half, he vehemently complained to official Scott Wall and received a technical foul. . Marvin Williams had his nose broken when Duncan accidentally smacked him in the first half and then wore a goggle mask for much of the second half. . The Spurs had 22 fast-break points to 10 for Utah. Howard Wilson Youth Jersey . -- New York Yankees general manager Brian Cashman has no concerns about the health of shortstop Derek Jeter, who was limited to 17 games last season due to leg injuries. Jabrill Peppers Jersey .J. - Pete Carroll is in support of the NFL looking further into whether medicinal marijuana could beneficial for players.WINNIPEG - A few rare smiles crossed Dustin Byfuglien’s face as reporters crowded around him after practice Tuesday.The Winnipeg Jets defenceman is enjoying a season thats brought him accolades from the NHL and praise from his teammates and coach for being a special player.The NHL’s first star of the week after collecting six points in four games, Byfuglien will take part in the league’s all-star game in Columbus, Ohio, this weekend.The recognition is coming during a season he says has him feeling more confident and settled in his personal and professional life.Byfuglien was married last summer to long-time girlfriend Emily Hendry, and in early December head coach Paul Maurice moved him from forward to his preferred position on defence after injuries felled a number of blue-liners.I think making her my wife finally has helped out and made things good, he said with a smile. I think just all around. Just going back to defence, I just like getting out of my bed and just going to work. It’s something that I enjoy and just kept going with it.The Jets (25-14-8) are on a four-game win streak as they get set to host Columbus (20-21-3) on Wednesday for their last game before the all-star break. They hold the first wild-card spot in the Western Conference, five points ahead of Calgary.The 29-year-old Byfuglien said there’s absolutely no doubt he’s playing better defence than in the past.Former Jets head coach Claude Noel had moved Byfuglien to forward in early January 2014. When Noel was fired a few days later and replaced by Maurice, the new coach kept him in that spot.Byfuglien noted the Jets have been playing different systems with Maurice and that’s had an impact on everyone.As a team we’ve changed our game so much, he said. The way we play, and the way we played back then, it’s way different. We feed off each other and you can make plays.And the six-foot-five, 260-pound Byfuglien has been making plays and putting up points.In 47 games, he has 12 goals and 19 assists for 31 points. But 20 of those points have come in the 21 games he’s played defence since Dec. 5.He’s unlike anyone, Jets forward Blake Wheeler said of Byfuglien. He’s special in a lot of ways.That includes Byfuglien’s physical presence, but also his instincts on the ice and the way he reads plays and intercepts pucks, Wheeler explained.He’s been dominant since he’s been back on (defence) especially, and he’s been a huge reason for our success.Byfuglien hasn’t really changed this seaason, but he may be feeling better about the way his game is viewed, Wheeler said. Howard Wilson Browns Jersey. I think he’s just comfortable now and I think he feels appreciated, he said. I think he felt under-appreciated before, you know, with a lot of the things he does and the things he tries to do.It can be frustrating as a player to come to work everyday and, kind of, it’s almost like a puppy. You hit him on the head and he keeps coming back for love, and if you don’t get it, it can sometimes wear on you a little bit.I think this year he feels appreciated, he feels like what he does is impactful on what we’re trying to do as a team.Byfuglien said he’s been following what Maurice has told him to do since he switched back to defence.Little things. Doing what I do and not get out of the game plan, Byfuglien said. Just stick with it and everything will just come.The player fans love to call Big Buff has also turned up his physical game.Rookie defenceman Ben Chiarot has been paired with Byfuglien and said the veteran is helping him make the transition. His friends and family ask him what Byfuglien is like and he tells them he’s a fun guy who likes to joke around on and off the ice.He also enjoys watching Byfuglien’s physical game.He’s so strong and so much bigger than everyone else, he just manhandles guys out there, Chiarot said. It’s like he’s playing with kids sometimes, so that’s fun to watch and it’s been impressive to see.Maurice said it might not be fair to say Byfuglien is exceeding his expectations on the blue-line.There’s never been a doubt that he’s a special player, he said. He can really do whatever he sets his mind to do.What the future holds for Byfuglien really depends on how having all the defencemen healthy will affect the minutes played, he said. The Blue Jackets contest may feature the return of defenceman Jacob Trouba, who’s missed 16 games with an upper-body injury. Trouba practised Tuesday and is awaiting medical clearance. He’s the last of four key defencemen to return after the rash of injuries.I’m in no hurry to get him out of there by any means, Maurice said. He’s a defenceman right now and he’s one of the best in the league right now so there’s no need to change that.Note: The Jets and CFLs Blue Bombers announced Tuesday that they were unable to finalize a date to host the Heritage Classic outdoor game at Investors Group Field next season and are very hopeful that a date can be secured early in the 2016-17 season. Cheap NFL Jerseys Cheap NFL Jerseys China Cheap Jerseys From China Cheap NFL Jerseys Authentic Wholesale Jerseys ChinaCheap NFL Jerseys China NFL Cheap Jerseys ' ' '
BARCELONA, Spain -- Lionel Messi has signed a restructured contract extension with Barcelona that reportedly makes the Argentina international the worlds highest-paid football player. Evan Engram Youth Jersey . Barcelona had originally announced the deal on Friday and says it was officially signed on Monday. The Catalan club says Messi "was very motivated by the deal." The 26-year-old Messi will earn a reported $27 million per season with further incentives able to drive the deal up to $34 million per year until the contract ends in 2017-18 -- surpassing Cristiano Ronaldos deal with Real Madrid. Messi also has a buy-out clause of $343 million. Messis previous contract ran through the 2017-18 season and was worth a reported $22 million per season. Messis deal comes two days after Barcelona lost its Spanish league title to Atletico Madrid following a 1-1 draw between the teams at its Camp Nou Stadium. Davis Webb Youth Jersey . Chris Heisey followed with a two-run triple and Billy Hamilton added an RBI double, all but sealing Cincinnatis fourth straight victory and seventh in eight games. Brandon Phillips, celebrating his 33rd birthday, hit a go-ahead homer in the ninth for the Reds before pinch-hitter Buster Posey tied it with an RBI double off hard-throwing closer Aroldis Chapman in the bottom half. Evan Engram Giants Jersey .Y. -- That hangover from the Big East tournament is gone for Villanova.In the end they were all right. The man in the cafe. The policeman on the street. The lady at the hairdressers. And the lads outside the pub. Hot drinks being spat all over England. Jermain Defoe to Toronto FC? No way. It couldnt be. It was last October when Ryan Nelsen shifted his head immediately from the table and looked right at me in disbelief. I had asked him what he thought a player like Defoe would do in MLS. Jermain Defoe in this league? My goodness - incredible player, Nelsen raved. One of the most natural goal scorers I have ever come across. Always out training, always trying to score, a great guy. To get a guy like Defoe for MLS, I cannot think of many that are more suited. It would be incredible, he said. Incredible? More like incredulous. A year is a long time in sports. In fairness anyone who would have argued differently with Nelsens assessment would have needed a dose of reality. Here was a club with an identity of being losers targeting a striker who had scored at every level. How could a bunch of guys who had struggled to get attention suddenly make a hot shots head turn? Well, it happened. An unlikely relationship was formed between water, brought together by Drake, a man who could widen the eyes of Defoe and make him believe everything he was sold on. Major League Soccer stood at the altar as a long-distance marriage was approved. We now pronounce you club and star DP signing. It would be a match that needed equal amounts of dedication and love on both sides. Headed where nobody took it, who meetin me there? They tel him that hes talkin crazy but he doesnt care. - Drake The first glimpse of the city of Toronto for Defoe came after he signed. The club proudly tweeted a picture of him leaning towards the car window to look at the stadium when he arrived. For a short while he was a celebrated pioneer but it was never going to be easy for him after he committed to love something he had never seen. Its one thing to flirt after a blind date but this was supposed to be more than just the football equivalent of a one-night stand. With little foundation it came as no surprise that the relationship started to sour quickly. Better late than never but never late is better. - Drake Defoe was brilliant on the pitch early in the season, scoring goals no previous Toronto player would have come close to whilst rescuing points for the club out of nothing. It was a spectacular romance, a honeymoon period that led to many fantasies. Eventually, though, every dreamer has to wake up. Injuries meant long layoffs and without the distraction of playing, the Englishmans mind would wander. Defoe pined for home and this was portrayed as a bad thing rather than it being communicated as a natural human reaction. His new family tried to help and even invited his old one over for a friendly game to celebrate. Defoe seemed happy. For a night. He would then spend long stretches away from the club to seek medical advice, yet during this time the relationship started to get worse. At no point did the two sit down publicly and explain why he was where he was. On the day Nelsen was fired the bigger story was around the potential sale of the former Tottenham man and his whereabouts. Davis Webb Giants Jersey. But get it while you here boy/Cause all that hype dont feel the same next year boy. - Drake The love affair was heading to an explosive divorce. In fact, the day before the transfer window closed the club could not confirm if Defoe would definitely stay. Onlookers were stunned. There had been no public admittance of Defoe missing home, or wanting to end his long-term commitment inside year yet suddenly the relationship was tearing apart. When the window closed, Defoe stayed but the writing was on the wall. But I need someone different. You know it, oh oh you know it. Oh oh you know it. We both know it. - Drake Defoe was no longer the only one looking to split up. We only want people who want to be here, was heard so often from the club that it replaced the Why cant we be great? slogan so often used around previously. Suddenly it made sense. Defoe had been fantastic when fit and ineffective when injured. It was common sense to listen to offers for him. Two sides ready for a change and move on. Simple? Not quite. After they had both given a masterclass in silence being deafening all summer they decided now was a good time to talk. Everybody talks and everybody listens. But somehow the truth just always comes up missing. - Drake Defoe went first. “It was frustrating when I was home seeing certain things—people questioning if [I was] really injured. It’s frustrating when people doubt you, when you’re dealing with a real injury and especially for someone like me who loves playing football,” he said Thursday. The club went a step further. Much of this saga is outlined in Fridays report in the Toronto Sun that Defoes mother was central to much of the fractions between the club and the player. Now the gloves were off. So much for an amicable parting. It didnt have to end like this. Defoes commitment and health has been questioned by fans and many members of the media but this latest report will hurt him the most. By targeting the woman who he loves the most, the club will mean nothing to him from now on. There will be many that will be disappointed with the allegations made against his mom in the report but they should be more alarmed by the story itself. Defoe is weeks away from becoming an ex-TFC player. Meanwhile, the club will carry on and has a reputation to rebuild. Leaks to the press about what a player has been up to when he is already leaving is nothing more than a childish way of trying to win the battle of public opinion. Defoe has played his final game for Toronto FC and the two will part less than a year after falling for each other. The striker will fall for someone else and spend the rest of his career getting injured and scoring a lot of goals. He leaves behind him a club that still has many things to learn. Tables turn, bridges burn, you live and learn. - Drake Tables continue to turn at BMO Field. That is sports. Yet, as another bridge burns you have to wonder just how much living and learning the club is doing. Cheap NFL Jerseys Cheap NFL Jerseys China Cheap Jerseys From China Cheap NFL Jerseys Authentic Wholesale Jerseys China Cheap NFL Jerseys China NFL Cheap Jerseys ' ' '
CLEVELAND -- Anderson Varejao cant explain how the Cleveland Cavaliers broke their season-high six-game losing streak. Demarcus Walker Broncos Jersey . Hes just glad they did. Varejao played a major role, hitting two crucial jumpers in overtime and tying a franchise record with a career-high 25 rebounds to give his struggling team a lift in an 87-81 victory over the Orlando Magic on Thursday night. "I still dont know how we won that game," he said. "It was crazy, but Ill take it." The Cavaliers played without All-Star point guard Kyrie Irving, who missed his first game this season because of a bruised left knee. Irving averages a team-high 22.2 points for the Cavaliers, who trailed 78-68 with just over a minute and a half to play. Thanks to crucial Orlando mistakes and some big plays of their own, the Cavaliers tied the game on Dion Waiters layup with 0.6 seconds remaining and dominated the extra session. Varejaos basket with 2:07 remaining in OT put Cleveland ahead 83-81. He added another basket with 1:34 left and hit two free throws with 23.9 seconds remaining to finish with 18 points. "He was a problem for us all night," Orlando coach Jacque Vaughn said. "Hes relentless. Give him credit for going hard the whole game." Varejaos big night was no surprise to his teammates. "We expect that of him," Waiters said. "Hes a rebounding machine." Glen Davis scored 16 points for the Magic, who scored only two points in overtime and couldnt hold the 10-point lead with 1:34 to play in regulation. "We blew it, bottom line," Magic forward Tobias Harris said. "It was a tough, tough loss. The whole game, we thought it was ours. These are the ones we need to win. Very tough loss." A basket by Varejao and two free throws by Waiters made it 79-72 with 50 seconds remaining. Jarrett Jack, starting in place of Irving, cut the lead to 79-75 by hitting three foul shots with 13.9 seconds remaining. After Orlando was called for a 5-second violation trying to inbound the ball, Waiters basket cut the lead to 79-77 with 10.1 seconds left. ETwaun Moore missed two free throws and Cleveland was awarded the ball with 9.3 seconds left after a video review. Waiters took the inbounds pass and drove down the left of the lane to tie the game. Jameer Nelsons 3-point attempt from the corner bounced off the rim and the teams went to overtime. Clevelands last three home games have gone to overtime. Waiters scored 17 points and Tristan Thompson added 16 for the Cavaliers. Nelson scored 14 points for the Magic, while Arron Afflalo and Andrew Nicholson had 12 apiece. Irving felt a "pop" in his knee while driving to the basket in Tuesdays loss to Indiana, but an MRI on Wednesday revealed he only sustained a bruise. Hes listed as day to day. Clevelands next game is Saturday at Brooklyn and the Cavaliers host Indiana on Sunday. "We found a way to win," Cleveland coach Mike Brown said. "It was exciting getting stops instead of trying to outscore everyone. When you allow two points in overtime, youre doing something right. Its great that our guys saw that we dont have to score to win games." Varejao tied the teams single-game rebounding record set by Rick Roberson on March 4, 1972. Magic centre Nikola Vucevic missed the game after spraining his left ankle Tuesday in a 94-81 loss to Golden State. He missed four games with the same injury in early December and is considered day to day. Vucevic is averaging 13.4 points and a team-high 11.1 rebounds. The Cavaliers defeated the Magic 109-100 in Orlando on Dec. 13. Neither team could build a lead in the first half. Cleveland led by five points several times in the first quarter, while Orlando went ahead by six in the second period. Thompsons basket at the buzzer gave the Cavaliers a 41-39 lead at halftime. Orlando is 4-11 on the road. The arena was about half full, thanks to a snowstorm that hit the area. The announced attendance was 14,248. NOTES: Irving watched the game from the bench in a coat and tie. ... Vaughn said before the game he doesnt believe Vucevics injury will linger. "The good news is hes on the trip with us and hes out there working on the court. I dont think this is something to be really worried about." ... Jason Maxiell started in Vucevics spot after having played 33 total minutes in Orlandos previous eight games. ... Cavaliers G Matthew Dellavedova earned a loud ovation for tying up Davis for a jump ball in the second quarter. Dellavedova is 6-foot-4 and 200 pounds while Davis is listed at 6-9 and 289 pounds. Jake Butt Youth Jersey .com) - After Tom Brady added to an already illustrious legacy, Malcolm Butler established his by leaving the Seattle Seahawks, well, deflated. Brendan Langley Womens Jersey .Y. - Urijah Faber walked out on a Madison Square Garden stage in a Wes Welker jersey, the UFCs fun nod to that other "super" show this weekend.SIX QUICK HOOPS THOUGHTS 1. J.R. SMITH (Knicks): I look at the mess in NY and the loss of Tyson Chandlers Defense and Rebounding is huge, this man is not performing anywhere near the level he did as the NBA 6th Man of the Year. Look at his numbers (11.7ppg / 33 FG + 29 3 PT PCT) this season. Not good at all. This is a team with multiple problems, but after the Knicks gave him the contract extension he doesnt look like hes very locked in. You cant count on guys like this 2. TIM DUNCAN (Spurs): How about one for the old guys! He put up 23 points and 21 rebounds on Monday vs. Atlanta, oldest guy to do the 20/20+. He stays in terrific shape and another example of that fact was this game. He epitomizes the savvy veteran who knows how to play to his strengths each night and conserve energy for the defining plays. As long as he stays upright, San Antonio will be in the hunt. He has gotten off to a bit of a slow start but is rounding into shape as the season goes along. 3. TREY BURKE (Jazz): Theyve been waiting patiently for their first round pick out of Michigan to come back from injury. He has arrived—21 points and six assists vs. Houston. Utah has had poor production at that spot this season and Burke will get every opportunity to prove that hes going to be the lead guard in Salt Lake City. There are so many terrific point guards in the league right now; you must have a guy you can trust to run your team. Hes a talented scorer/shooter, now he has to prove that he can run a pro team. 4. RYAN ANDERSON (Pelicans): Tough break losing Anthony Davis to a hand Injury but coach Monty Williams has to love having Anderson back. One of the best shooting step out 4s in the League, loved him in New Jersey and OOrlando. Garett Bolles Youth Jersey. Hell compete on the boards for you as well and do it within the flow of the offense quite efficiently. Huge to have that floor spacer to set up the spacing and driving lanes for your guards. He does that at a high level, good to see him back. 5. LAWRENCE FRANK (Nets): The former Head Coach of the Pistons and Nets is now out as Jason Kidds top lieutenant. Strange news hearing of his reassignment. I had a nice chat with him last Tuesday night in Toronto and I thought he was a great addition for Kidd. They had a close relationship and now it seems to have come apart under the expectations and pressure of the spotlight. Coaching is a tough business and the most important factor is having everyone on the same page. Obviously, there were differences on philosophy. Rarely do you see a move like this though in season, its very odd. Frank is a good coach, Im sure hell be back on the sidelines down the line. Coaching is a wacky profession. Things in Brooklyn are at the point of dysfunction. 6. WARRIORS FANS: Ive just witnessed an amazing comeback here at Golden State by the Warriors-theyre a very good team. Conversely, I just saw a collapse by the Raptors that has me speechless. This is the absolute lowest point of this season for Dwane Caseys squad. Forget the Basketball and X + Os for a moment, these fans here are awesome, magnificent, terrific and whatever superlative you want to throw out there. For those of you who watched the game you know what I mean. On an early December Tuesday night when many arenas are a morgue this was magical. They stayed behind their team and this is what folks who claim to be basketball fans will agree with me wholeheartedly about. A supportive and passionate crowd does pump a team up and make a HUGE difference. It happened this evening. Wow! Cheap NFL Jerseys Cheap NFL Jerseys China Cheap Jerseys From China Cheap NFL Jerseys Authentic Wholesale Jerseys China Cheap NFL Jerseys China NFL Cheap Jerseys ' ' '
VANCOUVER - Filip Forsberg is at the centre of early conversations about rookie of the year candidates — and Sunday night he showed why. Dan Feeney Jersey .The 20-year-old Swede scored twice and added an assist as the Nashville Predators beat the Vancouver Canucks 3-1 at Rogers Arena.Forsberg now leads all NHL rookies with 11 points in 11 games for Nashville and his go-ahead goal in the third period — his second of the night — displayed just how quickly hes adapting to the pro game.And as for all that rookie of the year discussion, Forsberg is politely shrugging it off.Its nothing I really pay attention to. Its more you guys (media) reminding me of it, said Forsberg. If I can contribute to the team in the points department I am more than happy to do that.Forsbergs winner came when James Neal powered his way in for a shot, then fanned on it, before Forsberg skated in behind Neal and lifted the puck past Lack to make it 2-1 at 6:42 into the third.Hes getting better every night, said Neal. I was in the same position he was, so its fun to help him and hes been good. He had a great night tonight. He shoots the puck well and hes just going to keep getting better.Colin Wilson also scored and goalie Pekka Rinne made 26 saves for the Predators (7-2-2), who won for the second time three games into their six-game road swing.Defenceman Alex Edler scored the only goal for the Canucks (8-4-0), who had a four-game win streak snapped before heading out for a tough away trip through California and Colorado.Eddie Lack, making his first start since getting hammered for seven goals at Colorado on Oct. 24, finished the evening with 30 saves. Ryan Miller had the night off after backstopping his team to a 3-2 win at Edmonton the night before.Lack is still searching for his first win of the season after three starts. He played much better than his last outing and says he just has to stay positive.Somehow the puck keeps finding a way in and I keep finding ways to lose the games, said a dejected Lack. I feel like I have to keep working and staying positive. Its tough right now for sure.It was midway through the first when the Canucks opened the scoring while on a power play. Defenceman Luca Sbisa levelled Preds winger Tayor Beck against the boards, earning the ire of captain Shea Weber, who dropped his gloves and went after Sbisa.It was only 24 seconds into the roughing penalty to Weber when Edler blasted one from the point that snuck through traffic to beat Rinne at 11:10.Canucks defenceman Kevin Bieksa, who doesnt wear a visor, left the game shortly after when he took a puck in the eye behind the Nashville net. He did not return and the Canucks were forced to play down a D-man.Canucks head coach Willie Desjardins didnt give an update on Bieksa after the game, but the defenceman was seen leaving Rogers Arena with a doctor.Lack looked sharp for Vancouver midway through the opening frame when he made a great pad save on a Mike Ribeiro rocket from the slot. He finished the period with 11 saves.He played real good, said Desjardins about Lack. He made some real good saves in the first and a couple real big saves. He was good enough. He would probably like the third one back, but he played well and gave us the chance we needed.With the Canucks serving a penalty for too many men on the ice early in the second, the Preds were given a gift to tie the game. Vancouver defenceman Dan Hamhuis tipped a Forsberg shot into his own net with surprising accuracy to make it 1-1.Its just the way the winds blows right now, said Lack. Getting a lot of bounces off the wrong guys. I just have to keep staying positive here and keep battling. The first win is going to come.Minutes after Nashvilles goal the casualties piled up for Vancouver as Canucks winger Tom Sestito was helped off to the locker-room with a lower-body injury and he did not return.The Canucks came out with more energy in the third, firing more pucks at the Finnish goalie in the first three minutes than all of the second period combined.However, it was Nashville that would jump ahead with Forsbergs second before Wilson added some insurance with under two minutes to play with a snipe that went top shelf over Lacks shoulder.They have a deep lineup with a lot of threats on different lines, said Canucks captain Henrik Sedin. You have to be focused every time youre on the ice.Notes: The Canucks are hitting the road for a four-game road trip, starting Tuesday in Denver followed by three stops in California. ... Nashvilles next stop on its current six-game road swing is Tuesday at Winnipeg. ... Sunday was the first of three meetings between the Canucks and the Preds. The next two are both in Nashville, Jan. 13 and Mar. 31. ... Prized Canucks prospect Bo Horvat was recalled on Sunday from Utica (AHL), but did not play and is likely to make his NHL debut on Tuesday. Mike Williams Jersey .com) - Coming off a pair of tough losses last week, the Syracuse Orange will try to put an end to their first losing skid of the season when they pay a visit to the Maryland Terrapins at the Comcast Center on Monday night in Atlantic Coast Conference action. Mike Williams Chargers Jersey ." Also, defencemen "were found to be at a higher risk of suffering a concussion than other players, perhaps due to turning their back to retrieve pucks along the boards, which leaves them vulnerable.South Bend, IN (SportsNetwork.com) - With their sights set on another upset victory, the Miami Hurricanes invade Purcell Pavilion on Saturday afternoon to take on the 12th-ranked Notre Dame Fighting Irish in an ACC matchup. Jim Larranagas Hurricanes are coming off their biggest win of the season, as they routed fourth-ranked Duke on Wednesday (90-74), ending the nations longest homecourt winning streak at the time at 41 games. The victory was the third in the last four games for Miami and moved the team to 12-4 overall and 2-1 in league play. Mike Breys Irish are coming off a win as well, as they topped Georgia Tech on the road, 62-59. On the surface, the victory doesnt look all that impressive, but the team battled some adversity as a key player for Notre Dame was ruled out for the game, leaving others to fill the void. With the three-point win, Notre Dame moved to 16-2 on the year, with a 3-1 league ledger. Miami and Notre Dame have split 16 all-time meetings. The Hurricanes evened things up with a 71-64 victory at the BankUnited Center last February. WHatever Miami did at Cameron Indoor Stadium this week, few teams have replicated in the past. The Hurricanes not only shut down a potent offensive squad, holding Duke to just .439 shooting, but they also shot the lights out in Durham, converting .518 from the floor, and distancing themselves from the Blue Devils in the second half by shooting a scorching .667 after the break. Star guard Angel Rodriguez had a huge game, posting a game-high 24 points. Fellow guard Sheldon McClellan added 14 points to the cause, while center Tonye Jekiri recorded a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds. On the season, Miami has been efficient at both ends of the floor, shootinng . Dan Feeney Chargers Jersey. 52 overall, while holding foes to a mere .407 shooting. McClellan and Rodriguez both transferred in from Texas and Kansas State, respectively, and both have paid immediate dividends. McClellen is shooting an impressive .532 from the floor and tops the team with 15.3 ppg. Rodriguez is right behind at 15.2 ppg, and leads the team in both assists (4.3 apg) and steals (2.3 spg). Manu Lecomte adds yet another backcourt scoring threat to the roster with his 10.2 ppg. Jekiri isnt much of a scorer (7.9 ppg) but he does lead the conference in rebounding (9.9 rpg). Notre Dame came into the Georgia Tech game shorthanded as starting forward Zach Auguste was ruled out due to an academic matter. Still, the Irish were able to fight their way to a victory, securing the teams best start to a season since the 1978-79 campaign. Five Notre Dame players notched double figures in the win over the Yellow Jackets, led by Jerian Grants 12 points. Steve Vasturia added 11 points, followed by Pat Connaughton, V.J. Beachem and Bonzie Colson, who all chipped in 10. The Irish are one of the nations premier offensive squads, coming into this game averaging 82.1 ppg on an impressive .530 shooting. Auguste was a big part of the offensive equation for Notre Dame though and his 14.3 points per game on a scorching .653 shooting will be missed until his off-the-court issues are resolved. The team will still funnel everything through the do-it-all Grant. The veteran guard is tops on the team in scoring (16.3 ppg) and assists (6.3 rpg), ranking among the nations best in the latter. 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TORONTO -- Sebastien Bourdais captured his first pole of the season on Saturday. Tanoh Kpassagnon Jersey . But he knows it doesnt mean much, especially with light rain falling on the Honda Indy track. Bourdais, whose only victory in the Toronto race came 10 years ago, had the top qualifying time of 58.94 seconds. "I remember it being the hardest street course Ive ever been on (when) wet," said Bourdais. "Theres so many lines and pavement changes, concrete, man holes and everything. This place is extremely treacherous." Bourdais, who sits 12th in the IndyCar Series standings, finished second and third in the two Toronto races last season, and won the Toronto event in 2004. Saturday was Bourdais 32nd pole of his career, but his first since September 2007. By taking the pole in Toronto, Bourdais became the 10th different pole winner in 13 races during the 2014 season. "Its been (seven) years. Its been a long time coming. Its a great feeling," said the 35-year-old. "I think Ive been the pole here four times and only won the thing once so it says how random these things can be. " Will Power, who is second in the IndyCar Series standings, finished qualifying with the second best time of 59.10, marking Powers fourth front-row start of the season. Series leader Helio Castroneves was third in qualifying with a best lap time of 59.14. Its Castroneves seventh top-five start of 2014. "We qualified third and were kind of upset about it," said Castroneves. "Thats a good thing. Its a great position to start the race. Unfortunately our tires at the end were worse than some of the others and that was the difference. "I feel like we will be very good for the race." Oakville, Ont., native James Hinchcliffe, the lone Canadian in the race, will start in the ninth spot after posting a qualifying lap time of 59.352. Hinchcliffe, who comes to Toronto in 11th place in the IndyCar Series with 294 points, has struggled in his home race finishing eighth and 21st, respectively in last years races. The 27-year-old finished 22nd at the 2012 event in Toronto and posted a 14th place finish during his rookie season in 2011. Ryan Hunter-Reay, the winner of last Saturdays race at Iowa Speedway, finished fourth in qualifying. Hunter-Reay will start in the top five for the fifth time this season and for the first time since the Grand Prix of Indianapolis in May. Simon Pagenaud, who briefly held the best qualifying time, was forced to pit early after a brush with the wall and finished fifth. Scott Dixon, who won both races in Toronto last year, will start 12th after a brush with the wall during qualifying forced him to pit early. Patrick Mahomes II Youth Jersey . Langer appeared to be in trouble when his second shot on the par-5 18th ended up in the rough short of the green. He hit a brilliant pitch to 5 feet and made the putt after Slumans birdie attempt rolled just wide. Kareem Hunt Chiefs Jersey .The Los Angeles Lakers star passed Michael Jordan for third on the NBAs career scoring list Sunday night in a 100-94 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves.DAVIE, Fla. -- The Miami Dolphins underwent interrogation Monday by an NFL special investigator, although they had already addressed one pressing question: Would they fold on the season? Answer: No. New York attorney Ted Wells began interviewing players regarding the harassment case involving tackle Jonathan Martin and suspended guard Richie Incognito. Wells visit was expected to last at least two or three days, ensuring further distractions for a team trying to keep its season from derailing. A defeat Sunday would have accelerated the Dolphins recent tailspin. Instead they beat San Diego 20-16 to improve to 5-5 and remain in the race for an AFC wild-card berth. "Its going to come down to a tight finish, and we have to win," quarterback Ryan Tannehill said. "We want to win all the rest of our games." The Dolphins will try to do so while ensnared in the biggest scandal in franchise history. Martin left the team three weeks ago and alleges he was harassed daily by teammates, including Incognito. On Friday, Martin spent nearly seven hours talking with Wells. Before the attorney began his interviews with other players, he released a statement -- his first public comments about the investigation. "We look forward to meeting with Dolphins players, coaches and staff in order to get the facts and prepare a thorough and fair report," Wells said. "The Dolphins organization has been very helpful in arranging the interviews and urging their personnel to co-operate with the investigation. We have asked all Dolphins personnel to respect the process and avoid commenting on the investigation." Wells was appointed Nov. 6 by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell to investigate the Dolphins workplace and prepare a report that will be made public. "As weve said from Day One, were going to fully co-operate," coach Joe Philbin said. Offensive co-ordinator Mike Sherman said he was among those scheduled to talk Tuesday with Wells, after players had been interviewed. "Hopefully most of what the players have to do will be taken care of today," Sherman said. Defensive co-ordinator Kevin Coyle said he didnt expect the investigation to significantly affect preparations for Sundays home game against Carolina. "Weve been told theyre going to do everything they can to not disrupt the normal flow of the week," Coyle said. "I dont think its going to have much of an impact." Philbiin agreed. Patrick Mahomes II Womens Jersey. "Were sticking to the schedule," he said. "Well be fine." As tackle Tyson Clabo noted, the Dolphins are 2-1 since Martin left the team and the scandal began to unfold. Eight wins might be enough to make the playoffs in the parity-filled AFC, and the Dolphins are tied with the Jets in the race for the sixth and final playoff spot. The teams play each other Dec. 1 and Dec. 29. The Dolphins are at .500 even though theyve been outgained by 571 yards this year, and they were hardly dominant against the Chargers, who totalled 435 yards but scored only one touchdown. Miami won despite missing 60 per cent of its offensive line, including centre Mike Pouncey, who was out sick. Replacements included undrafted rookie Sam Brenner, who won praise from teammates in his NFL debut. The victory inspired an emotional postgame locker-room pep talk by the stoic Philbin. "The focus and the resiliency of you guys, all right, this week amid all thats going on -- unbelievable," Philbin shouted. "Fantastic job by you guys hanging tough, sticking together and working at your job, being a pro, coming to work every day regardless of the circumstances." Receiver Mike Wallace conceded the game seemed like a refuge amid the recent media scrutiny. "This is one of the only things we have to escape everything else -- to just go out and play a football game," Wallace said. "Any time you can get a win it makes everyone around you feel good, and even the people who are not around you." That might include the two fans sitting side by side Sunday who wore brown bags over their heads, one bearing a photo of Incognito, the other a photo of Martin. Martin, a second-year pro from Stanford, has been with family in California undergoing counselling for emotional issues. He attended Stanfords game Saturday at Southern Cal, watching from the sideline. Incognito filed a grievance last week against the Dolphins seeking to rejoin the team. Revelations about their relationship struck a national nerve on the issue of locker-room bullying, and have even gone global. Former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Joe Montana offered a reaction Monday from the Great Wall of China, where he was on a tour to promote football. Montana said bullying was common in the NFL, and said the locker room is a "fun, crazy place," but added, "Its a tough place, too, sometimes." Cheap NFL Jerseys Cheap NFL Jerseys China Cheap Jerseys From China Cheap NFL Jerseys Authentic Wholesale Jerseys China Cheap NFL Jerseys China NFL Cheap Jerseys ' ' '
NEW YORK -- Paul Pierce drove his shoulder right into LeBron James, a post-season foul in a preseason game. Deatrich Wise Jr. Jersey . A message to the NBA champions? "Its a message to the league," Pierce said. The Brooklyn Nets showed the defensive toughness Pierce said will be their identity, smothering the Miami Heat 86-62 on Thursday night after retiring coach Jason Kidds number. Brook Lopez scored 14 points for the Nets on a night that peaked with the pregame. Kidds No. 5 was lifted to the Barclays Center rafters during a ceremony a few minutes before the tip, honouring him for leading the franchise to its greatest NBA success. The game itself could have used the jolt Kidd provided when the Nets acquired him in 2001. Except for a few James highlights, it was typical exhibition play, with starters resting and subs misfiring for much of the night. But theres already a hint this could become a rivalry when the games do count, as Miami-Boston was before the Celtics traded Pierce and Garnett to Brooklyn. A day earlier, James noted that those two shouldnt have been so hard on Ray Allen when he opted to leave the Celtics for the Heat, since Pierce and Garnett ended up leaving themselves -- though Allen was a free agent and the pair was traded. "Tell LeBron worry about Miami," Garnett said when asked about James comments. "He has nothing to do with Celtic business." James and Chris Bosh each finished with 16 points for the Heat, who shot 32 per cent and did next to nothing in the 20 minutes James wasnt on the floor. "Weve got so many guys out, were just trying to get better and not waste an opportunity to get better," James said. "I think we did that at phases. Obviously, we dont have all our guys playing, but when guys were in the game, they played, worked hard." The Nets believe their acquisition of Pierce and Garnett, along with a number of other moves, has given them a roster that can compete with the Heat in the Eastern Conference. All that could really be told from this game was that the Nets appear to have a better back end of their bench. Miami managed just 12 points in the second quarter, when it went mostly with reserves and fell behind 44-28. Dwyane Wade sat out for the Heat and Deron Williams is still sidelined by a sprained ankle for the Nets, but the exhibition at times had a playoff feel to it thanks to the rivalry among some of the veterans. James was dribbling quickly up the floor in the first quarter and Pierce simply threw his shoulder into James for a foul that stopped the fast break. Garnett played only 10 minutes. Kidd led the Nets to consecutive NBA Finals as a player and became the sixth member of the franchise to have his number retired. A few former teammates attended the ceremony, while taped messages from Kenyon Martin, Vince Carter and Richard Jefferson were shown during breaks in the game. Key reserves Allen and Chris Andersen also sat out for the Heat, while the Nets remained without Jason Terry and Andrei Kirilenko from their bench. The teams will meet again in Brooklyn on Nov. 1 in the Nets home opener. Antonio Garcia Youth Jersey . In the Brewers six games this season, no starter has allowed more than three runs. "We see the guy in front of us do a great job and we want to do even better," Gallardo said after the Brewers beat the Red Sox 4-0 on Sunday, his second straight scoreless start. Deatrich Wise Jr. Womens Jersey . The victory strengthened Liverpools position in the top four after Tottenham lost 1-0 at Norwich in the days late kickoff, cutting the north London club six points adrift of fourth place and the final Champions League slot for next season.SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- Jonathan Martins early weeks with his new San Francisco 49ers teammates have been spent recovering from mononucleosis and regaining strength zapped by the viral infection. Because he was contagious, Martin initially had to isolate himself for part of this month while sick. That has limited his on-field time during the teams off-season program, and he didnt practice during the voluntary organized team activity Wednesday. "I was working out here for a couple of weeks before I got sick," Martin said. "I was here from the beginning. It was important for me to be with the team and start the program. Its been fun to be around the guys and get to know everybody and learn the offence. Its been great. My teammates are great. The coach is great. So Im excited to get back at it. It kind of stunk to have mono." Martin was traded from the Dolphins to the Niners in mid-March, providing him with a new start after his departure from Miami last October. He accused teammate Richie Incognito of bullying in a scandal that overshadowed the franchises 8-8 season. Martin is aware of Incognitos apologetic posts directed to him on Twitter from March following the veteran offensive linemans earlier rant and harsh comments about Martin. Martin said again Wednesday he is thrilled to be "moving forward" and he hasnt given the situation with Incognito "a second thought." An NFL investigation determined Incognito and two other Dolphins offensive linemen engaged in persistent harassment of Martin. Incognito was then suspended and missed the final eight games. San Francisco quarterback Colin Kaepernick said he hopes a Miami investigation from April that names him will soon be over. Earlier this month, Miami Police released two calls to a 911 dispatcher saying a woman identifying herself as Jesus was lying naked in a bed and refusing to leave. The callers said the woman wanted to spend time with a third man who wasnt there. Police say the players also involved in the case are 49ers wide receiver Quinton Patton and Seahawks receiver Ricardo Lockette. None of them has been charged with any wrongdoing. "Well, the district attorney has the information today," Kaepernick said. "At this point, Im going to let them handle their business. I did nothing wrong in that incident. So, I want to do everything I can to let the DA close this matter. Im very eager to have the matter closed." Coach Jim Harbaugh reiterated Wedneesday he would like the 49ers to re-sign Kaepernick before the season starts, while also acknowledging reaching agreements on long-term commitments can be complicated. Antonio Garcia Jersey. Kaepernick, who took over as the starter in November 2012 from departed 2005 No. 1 overall pick Alex Smith, would enter the final season of his original rookie deal. "Again, Im hopeful. Im a big proponent of Colin Kaepernick, his abilities. On record as stating that I would like to see that happen. Its a process. I know youve heard me use that word before in many other ways. But, that is not like some of the other examples. Theres a process in place. And itll play out." Kaepernick wouldnt say what he thought would be a "fair" contract, a word he has used regarding his future with the franchise. "Im letting my agents handle all of that and Im worried about being out here trying to get better with my teammates and get ready for the season," Kaepernick said. "Im playing football regardless." And he is thrilled to get to work with his deep receiving corps featuring Anquan Boldin, Michael Crabtree and Brandon Lloyd, who hardly looks as if he just spent a year out of football. Lloyd signed to a one-year contract last month to rejoin the team that drafted him the fourth round in 2003. He caught 105 passes for 1,510 yards and 13 touchdowns for San Francisco from 2003-05. That included leading the team with 48 receptions, 733 yards receiving and five TD catches in 2005. Lloyd has also played for the Washington Redskins (2006-07), Chicago Bears (2008), Denver Broncos (2009-11), St. Louis Rams (2011) and New England Patriots (2012) during his career. "I had seen plays he had made. But, I hadnt seen him on a consistent basis," Kaepernick said. "Coming off of a year off from football, hes been amazing out here. Very smooth, very disciplined with his routes and an easy target to throw to." NOTES: New WR Stevie Johnson sat out Wednesday because "he had a little something hes working through," Harbaugh said without elaborating. ... Whether RG Alex Boone is absent because of his frustration with an unsettled contract situation, Harbaugh wouldnt say. 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