By: Steve Johnson
Here are 2 teams in Philadelphia, both very successful over the past decade, both beloved, but only 1 receives criticism. Here is what they've done in this off season and over the past few years.
Team #1: Replenished their roster. Signed their home grown players to long term contracts. Filled needs in both free agency and the draft. Still have more money left to spend (in a league that faces a salary cap) than most teams in its league.
Team #2: Spent money on aging players. Have more salary on the DL than 2 teams entire salary in their league. Failed to address 2 major positions that have their 2 best players over the past 5 years injured. Now are facing money problems, forcing them to debate whether to trade their home grown talent or not.
Team #1 is the Philadelphia Eagles, and the city is calling for their managements head, despite doing all the right moves in the off season. They face hatred from people in their own city, that root for the other 3 teams in the city...but hate them for some God forsaken reason.
Team #2 is the Philadelphia Phillies, and they can do no wrong amongst the fans, despite their GM putting them in a position that has their future in jeopardy. They have gained more fans since 2008 than any other team in sports and when they make moves, there is rarely a question to if it's right.
The reason this is brought up is our beloved Phillies are on the verge of losing a 28 year old left handed pitcher in the prime of his career, simply because Phillies management thought money grew on trees. Who's to blame them though? Money does grow on trees, trees located at One Citizens Bank Way in South Philadelphia. In 2003, the Phillies were in the middle of the pack in payroll, around 70 million. Now they're top 3, over 100 million dollars more, competing with the one time evil empires of Boston and New York. Now the problem they face is what to do with Hamels, who will be seeking top dollar. Can the Phillies afford him? They have fellow left-hander Cliff Lee signed till at least 2015 with an option for 2016 at $21 million this year and $25 million every year after that. Roy Halladay, who was just placed on the DL, is signed through 2013 and a 14 option at $20 million a year. Ryan Howard, who is in the Ruben Amaro witness protection program in Florida, will start making a whopping $25 million a year in 2014 through possibly 2017. Not to mention another $40 million locked up to new closer Jonathan Papelbon, often injured second baseman Chase Utley and struggling shortstop Jimmy Rollins. The Phillies are close to the 178 million dollar luxury tax Major League Baseball has set. This means unless Ruben Amaro does some trade deadline whealing and dealing, or Cole Hamels really loves Philadelphia and takes a pay cut, the Phillies are likely to lose one of their own. Is it possible that the California boy heads back to California to play for the Dodgers? What if he went to Detroit to team up with fellow ace Justin Verlander. The Cubbies need a bright new star to keep their team going. The Rangers adding a stud #1 pitcher would pretty much lock up their dynasty. The fear of losing a beloved home grown player, a World Series MVP, and possibly the best young lefty in the game is real, and you should be worried. But this could never happen to the beloved Phillies, who never make mistakes...could it?
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Sixers/Celtics all time teams
By: Steve Johnson, Jon Balant and Mike Duncan
With the Sixers and Celtics playing in this exciting Eastern Conference semi-final matchup tonight, we decided to look back on the Sixers and Celtics historic rivalry and the teams that made it so fierce. The Sixers and Celtics are two of the most proud franchises in the NBA, with some of the greatest players the game has ever seen. While listening to 97.5 the Fanatic today, we went with their show and decided to do a fantasy draft, compiling 3 teams, each with a starting 5, a 6th man, and a coach. We alternated picks with a snake style draft and here is what we came up with. The players had to be recognized as either a Celtic or a Sixer, for example Pete Maravich wasn't the same player in the
1st Pick (Jon) : Wilt Chamberlain, C, Sixers
2nd Pick (Mike): Bill Russell, C, Celtics
3rd Pick (Steve): Larry Bird, SF, Celtics
4th Pick (Steve): Charles Barkley, PF, Sixers
5th Pick (Mike): Julius Erving, SF, Sixers
6th Pick (Jon): Paul Pierce, SF, Celtics
7th Pick (Jon): Allen Iverson, Sixers
8th Pick (Mike): John Havlicek, SG Celtics
9th Pick (Steve): Moses Malone, C, Sixers
10th Pick (Steve): Ray Allen, SG, Celtics
11th Pick (Mike): Hal Greer, PG, Sixers
12th Pick (Jon): Kevin McHale, PF, Celtics
13th Pick (Jon): Bob Cousy, PG, Celtics
14th Pick (Mike): Kevin Garnett, PF, Celtics
15th Pick (Steve): Rajon Rondo, PG, Celtics
16th Pick (Steve): Billy Cunningham, 6th Man, Sixers
17th Pick (Mike): Red Auerbach, Coach, Celtics
18th Pick (Jon): Reggie Lewis, 6th Man, Celtics
19th Pick (Jon): Larry Brown, coach, Sixers
20th Pick (Mike): Dennis Johnson, 6th man, Celtics
21st Pick (Steve): Doc Rivers, coach, Celtics
PF- Kevin McHale Kevin Garnett Charles Barkley
SF- Paul Pierce Julius Erving Larry Bird
SG- Allen Iverson John Havlicek Ray Allen
PG- Bob Cousy Hal Greer Rajon Rondo
6th- Reggie Lewis Dennis Johnson Billy Cunningham
Coach- Larry Brown Red Auerbach Doc Rivers
With the Sixers and Celtics playing in this exciting Eastern Conference semi-final matchup tonight, we decided to look back on the Sixers and Celtics historic rivalry and the teams that made it so fierce. The Sixers and Celtics are two of the most proud franchises in the NBA, with some of the greatest players the game has ever seen. While listening to 97.5 the Fanatic today, we went with their show and decided to do a fantasy draft, compiling 3 teams, each with a starting 5, a 6th man, and a coach. We alternated picks with a snake style draft and here is what we came up with. The players had to be recognized as either a Celtic or a Sixer, for example Pete Maravich wasn't the same player in the
1st Pick (Jon) : Wilt Chamberlain, C, Sixers
2nd Pick (Mike): Bill Russell, C, Celtics
3rd Pick (Steve): Larry Bird, SF, Celtics
4th Pick (Steve): Charles Barkley, PF, Sixers
5th Pick (Mike): Julius Erving, SF, Sixers
6th Pick (Jon): Paul Pierce, SF, Celtics
7th Pick (Jon): Allen Iverson, Sixers
8th Pick (Mike): John Havlicek, SG Celtics
9th Pick (Steve): Moses Malone, C, Sixers
10th Pick (Steve): Ray Allen, SG, Celtics
11th Pick (Mike): Hal Greer, PG, Sixers
12th Pick (Jon): Kevin McHale, PF, Celtics
13th Pick (Jon): Bob Cousy, PG, Celtics
14th Pick (Mike): Kevin Garnett, PF, Celtics
15th Pick (Steve): Rajon Rondo, PG, Celtics
16th Pick (Steve): Billy Cunningham, 6th Man, Sixers
17th Pick (Mike): Red Auerbach, Coach, Celtics
18th Pick (Jon): Reggie Lewis, 6th Man, Celtics
19th Pick (Jon): Larry Brown, coach, Sixers
20th Pick (Mike): Dennis Johnson, 6th man, Celtics
21st Pick (Steve): Doc Rivers, coach, Celtics
Jon's Team Mike's Team Steve's Team
C- Wilt Chamberlain Bill Russell Moses MalonePF- Kevin McHale Kevin Garnett Charles Barkley
SF- Paul Pierce Julius Erving Larry Bird
SG- Allen Iverson John Havlicek Ray Allen
PG- Bob Cousy Hal Greer Rajon Rondo
6th- Reggie Lewis Dennis Johnson Billy Cunningham
Coach- Larry Brown Red Auerbach Doc Rivers
Monday, May 14, 2012
State of the Flyers part 2
By: Steve Johnson
Continued from part 1
Defensemen
Kimmo Timonen ($6.33 million cap hit, 1 year left, UFA in 13-14)
Chris Pronger ($4.9 million cap hit, 5 years left, UFA in 17-18)
Andrej Meszaros ($4 million cap hit, 2 years left, UFA in 14-15)
Pavel Kubina (Unrestricted Free Agent this year)
Matt Carle (Unrestricted Free Agent this year)
Braydon Coburn ($4.5 million cap hit, 4 years left, UFA in 16-17)
Nicklas Grossmann ($3.5 million cap hit, 4 years left, UFA in 16-17)
Marc-Andre Bourdon (Restricted Free Agent this year)
Andreas Lilja ($737,500, 1 year left, UFA in 13-14)
Erik Gustafsson ($900,000, 1 year left, RFA in 13-14)
Breakdown:
Kimmo Timonen once again had a great year and will be back again for the Flyers. He was however breaking down toward the end of the year, and seemed tired. He will be turning 38 next year and who knows how many years him and...
Chris Pronger have left. Pronger barely played this year after head injuries, and some say he will never play again. Losing one of the best defense men this game has ever seen will be huge, especially since they have counted on him for the next 5 years. I don't think he'll be back, and that's not good. Flyers need to get younger at this position.
Andrej Meszaros had back surgery mid way through the year and was out close to 8 weeks. He came back for the end of the Devils series and didn't look his self. He has 2 years left on his deal and takes a larger cap hit than you would want for someone you might not be able to count on.
Pavel Kubina was acquired at the trade deadline and wasn't the player he once was. This was a desperation move and it didn't work out. He won't be on the team and probably will have to retire.
Matt Carle isn't the same player without Pronger playing along side of him. He didn't have the year many expected, but what his normal self at around 40 points. Carle doesn't get hurt, and the Flyers would love to resign the 27 year old. It all depends if another team is willing to give him a big contract.
Braydon Coburn got a big contract extension mid way through the year and he deserved it. He's locked up through 2016 and really is one of the only defense men they can count on for the next couple of years with...
Nicklas Grossmann, who was also given a new contract and is also signed through 2016. He was acquired mid way through the season and you could instantly see the goaltenders playing better.
Marc-Andre Bourdon was called up early with the injuries the Flyers had and he played decent. He played in more than half the games and is still only 22. I would be surprised if they let him walk without getting a bid in for his services.
Andreas Lilja, like a couple of the guys mentioned before is getting old and showing it. He's got 1 more year left on his deal, but I wouldn't be surprised to see the Flyers somehow get out of this.
Erik Gustafsson was being called up and down all year with the injuries the Flyers suffered. I thought he played well in the playoffs and think he could earn himself a contract next year if he continues to improve. He's still only 23 years old and is a restricted free agent after next year.
Goalies
Ilya Bryzgalov ($5.66 million cap hit, 8 years left, UFA in 2020)
Sergei Bobvrovsky ($1.75 million cap hit, 1 year left, RFA in 13-14
Breakdown:
Ilya Bryzgalov had more one liners than saves this year. After signing that huge contact, the Flyers didn't get what they expected and they admitted that in the past week. Bryz needs to play better, and needs to get his head into it. I expect him to bounce back, after he settles in the city and learns from his mistakes. He played better toward the end of the season before his foot injury. It seemed like the injury or the pressure got to him in Pittsburgh but then played better in New Jersey. In order to move on the Flyers need him and not...
Sergei Bobvrosky who is nothing more than a 2nd goalie in the NHL. The Flyers didn't get what they expected out of him and he will be counted on for a backup role if he is resigned after next year.
Continued from part 1
Defensemen
Kimmo Timonen ($6.33 million cap hit, 1 year left, UFA in 13-14)
Chris Pronger ($4.9 million cap hit, 5 years left, UFA in 17-18)
Andrej Meszaros ($4 million cap hit, 2 years left, UFA in 14-15)
Pavel Kubina (Unrestricted Free Agent this year)
Matt Carle (Unrestricted Free Agent this year)
Braydon Coburn ($4.5 million cap hit, 4 years left, UFA in 16-17)
Nicklas Grossmann ($3.5 million cap hit, 4 years left, UFA in 16-17)
Marc-Andre Bourdon (Restricted Free Agent this year)
Andreas Lilja ($737,500, 1 year left, UFA in 13-14)
Erik Gustafsson ($900,000, 1 year left, RFA in 13-14)
Breakdown:
Kimmo Timonen once again had a great year and will be back again for the Flyers. He was however breaking down toward the end of the year, and seemed tired. He will be turning 38 next year and who knows how many years him and...
Chris Pronger have left. Pronger barely played this year after head injuries, and some say he will never play again. Losing one of the best defense men this game has ever seen will be huge, especially since they have counted on him for the next 5 years. I don't think he'll be back, and that's not good. Flyers need to get younger at this position.
Andrej Meszaros had back surgery mid way through the year and was out close to 8 weeks. He came back for the end of the Devils series and didn't look his self. He has 2 years left on his deal and takes a larger cap hit than you would want for someone you might not be able to count on.
Pavel Kubina was acquired at the trade deadline and wasn't the player he once was. This was a desperation move and it didn't work out. He won't be on the team and probably will have to retire.
Matt Carle isn't the same player without Pronger playing along side of him. He didn't have the year many expected, but what his normal self at around 40 points. Carle doesn't get hurt, and the Flyers would love to resign the 27 year old. It all depends if another team is willing to give him a big contract.
Braydon Coburn got a big contract extension mid way through the year and he deserved it. He's locked up through 2016 and really is one of the only defense men they can count on for the next couple of years with...
Nicklas Grossmann, who was also given a new contract and is also signed through 2016. He was acquired mid way through the season and you could instantly see the goaltenders playing better.
Marc-Andre Bourdon was called up early with the injuries the Flyers had and he played decent. He played in more than half the games and is still only 22. I would be surprised if they let him walk without getting a bid in for his services.
Andreas Lilja, like a couple of the guys mentioned before is getting old and showing it. He's got 1 more year left on his deal, but I wouldn't be surprised to see the Flyers somehow get out of this.
Erik Gustafsson was being called up and down all year with the injuries the Flyers suffered. I thought he played well in the playoffs and think he could earn himself a contract next year if he continues to improve. He's still only 23 years old and is a restricted free agent after next year.
Goalies
Ilya Bryzgalov ($5.66 million cap hit, 8 years left, UFA in 2020)
Sergei Bobvrovsky ($1.75 million cap hit, 1 year left, RFA in 13-14
Breakdown:
Ilya Bryzgalov had more one liners than saves this year. After signing that huge contact, the Flyers didn't get what they expected and they admitted that in the past week. Bryz needs to play better, and needs to get his head into it. I expect him to bounce back, after he settles in the city and learns from his mistakes. He played better toward the end of the season before his foot injury. It seemed like the injury or the pressure got to him in Pittsburgh but then played better in New Jersey. In order to move on the Flyers need him and not...
Sergei Bobvrosky who is nothing more than a 2nd goalie in the NHL. The Flyers didn't get what they expected out of him and he will be counted on for a backup role if he is resigned after next year.
Friday, May 11, 2012
State of the Flyers
By: Steve Johnson
When the Flyers traded away team stars Mike Richards and Jeff Carter in the 2011 off season nobody expected them to be a championship contender. It's easy to look back now in disappointment, but in reality the 2011-12 Flyers exceeded our expectations and maybe us hopeful for the future. The Flyers traded captain Mike Richards to Los Angeles for prized prospect Brayden Schenn, Wayne Simmonds and the Kings 2012 2nd round pick. In that same day, they traded Richards buddy Jeff Carter to Columbus for winger Jakub Voracek, and the 8th overall pick (which turned into Sean Couturier). After trades that got rid of your two top players to bring in 4 players of the ages of 21, 19, 22, and 18 year old you would have thought they were building for the future. Then they go out and trade the cap they saved with Richie and Carter and get Goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov, and sign him to a 9, that's right 9 year deal worth over 50 million dollars. Now bring yourself back to the summer of 2011, if I would have told you the Flyers would knock off the Penguins and be the favorite to win the Stanley Cup after that series, you would have thought I was crazy. Well they did, and they were, and guess what? They still have a bright future...and possibly a dynasty on their hands. Here is the state of the Flyers for the 2012-13 season, and many years to come.
Centers
Claude Giroux ($3.75 million cap hit, 2 years left, RFA in 14-15)
Danny Briere ($6.5 million cap hit, 3 years left, UFA in 15-16)
Sean Couturier ($1.375 million cap hit, 2 years left, RFA in 14-15)
Brayden Schenn ($3.11 million cap hit, 2 years left, RFA in 14-15)
Breakdown: All of these players should be returning in 2012-13 and are expected to have major roles as they did this year.
Giroux is the star of the team, and a top 5 player, if not the best all around player in the world today. Briere is one of the best 2nd line centers in the game and is one of the most clutch players in the game. Couturier stepped up like no one (outside of Paul Holmgren) expected. As a 19 year old, to be the main face off guy in the defensive zone, play on the penalty kill, and be a shut down player against one of the world's best (Malkin) is unheard of. Couturier is heads above what you expect a 19 year old to be, expect him to step his game up offensively.
Schenn had his ups and downs last year, and battled through injuries. He was the key piece in the trades this off season, but probably played the worst out of what the Flyers got for in return. The Flyers fully expect him to step his game up a notch and be an offensive threat next year.
Wingers
Scott Hartnell ($4.2 million cap hit, 1 year left, UFA in 13-14)
Jaromir Jagr (Unrestricted Free Agent this year)
Jakub Voracek (Restricted Free Agent this year)
Max Talbot ($1.75 million cap hit, 4 years left, UFA in 16-17)
Wayne Simmonds ($1.75 million cap hit, 1 year left, RFA in 13-14)
Jody Shelley ($1.1 million cap hit, 1 year left, UFA in 13-14)
Matt Read ($900,000, 2 years left, UFA in 14-15)
Ian Laperriere (Unrestricted Free Agent this year)
James Van Riemsdyk ($4.25 million cap hit, 6 years left, UFA in 18-19)
Harry Zolnierczyk (Restricted Free Agent this year)
Eric Wellwood ($580,000, 1 year left, RFA in 13-14)
Tom Sestito (Restricted Free Agent this year)
Zac Rinaldo ($544,000, 1 year left, RFA in 13-14
Scott Hartnell stepped up his game tremendously last year, scoring a career high and team leading 37 goals on the line with Claude Giroux and Jaromir Jagr.
Jagr was a big surprise signing last year and an even bigger surprise on the ice. At 40, and two years out of the NHL, nobody expected him to have the year he had. Torwards the end of the year it did seem like he was battling injuries and starting to slow down. Laviolette took him off the top line several times throughout the Devils series. Signing Jagr is not the top priority for the Flyers front office unless they can get him for cheap. He did admit, this was his favorite year of hockey, and for a multiple Hart Trophy and Stanley Cup winner that is saying something.
Voracek is a restricted free agent and the team would love to bring back a player with his speed and heart. He fit in very nicely with the Flyers up tempo pace and they would be dumb to let him walk.
Talbot is signed through 16-17 and will continue to bring toughness and hard work, including a great locker room presence for years to come.
Wayne Simmonds fit right in with the Flyers toughness and instantly became a fan favorite, he will be back again next year and it wouldn't surprise me to see him receive an extension.
Jody Shelley still has a year left on his contract, but it looks like the NHL no longer has a place for his type of one dimensional play.
Matt Read was the surprise of the team after going undrafted and made a strong case for rookie of the year. He still has 2 years left on his contract and will get every chance to be a Flyer for a long time.
Laperriere was still under contract this year, but was on the pre game show due to his injuries. His career is over.
James Van Riemsdyk received a new contract and will be a Flyers as long as they want him too. He's signed through 2018, but he needs to stay healthy to not be a hot commodity on the trade market. He showed signs of being great throughout the year but could not stay on the ice. JVR has the potential to be a top player in this league, and the Flyers would prefer it be wearing orange.
Zolnierczyk showed flashes in his 30+ games this year, but not enough to beat out Eric Wellwood for a playoff roster spot. Harry Z is a restricted free agent and might not have a spot on this team next year, while Wellwood showed that he can bring energy and speed both offensively and on the penalty kill.
Sestito is a restricted free agent as well, and didn't show much for the Flyers to keep him around. He's a big body and plays hard and will likely end up somewhere else.
Rinaldo at times was the most loved player in the Wells Fargo Center and the hated other times. He was always there to get the crowd and more importantly his teammates pumped up with a huge hit, but then let them down with stupid penalties as well. He will be back next year and is a restricted free agent in 13-14.
Part 2 Defense and Goaltending will follow tomorrow. Stay tuned.
When the Flyers traded away team stars Mike Richards and Jeff Carter in the 2011 off season nobody expected them to be a championship contender. It's easy to look back now in disappointment, but in reality the 2011-12 Flyers exceeded our expectations and maybe us hopeful for the future. The Flyers traded captain Mike Richards to Los Angeles for prized prospect Brayden Schenn, Wayne Simmonds and the Kings 2012 2nd round pick. In that same day, they traded Richards buddy Jeff Carter to Columbus for winger Jakub Voracek, and the 8th overall pick (which turned into Sean Couturier). After trades that got rid of your two top players to bring in 4 players of the ages of 21, 19, 22, and 18 year old you would have thought they were building for the future. Then they go out and trade the cap they saved with Richie and Carter and get Goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov, and sign him to a 9, that's right 9 year deal worth over 50 million dollars. Now bring yourself back to the summer of 2011, if I would have told you the Flyers would knock off the Penguins and be the favorite to win the Stanley Cup after that series, you would have thought I was crazy. Well they did, and they were, and guess what? They still have a bright future...and possibly a dynasty on their hands. Here is the state of the Flyers for the 2012-13 season, and many years to come.
Centers
Claude Giroux ($3.75 million cap hit, 2 years left, RFA in 14-15)
Danny Briere ($6.5 million cap hit, 3 years left, UFA in 15-16)
Sean Couturier ($1.375 million cap hit, 2 years left, RFA in 14-15)
Brayden Schenn ($3.11 million cap hit, 2 years left, RFA in 14-15)
Breakdown: All of these players should be returning in 2012-13 and are expected to have major roles as they did this year.
Giroux is the star of the team, and a top 5 player, if not the best all around player in the world today. Briere is one of the best 2nd line centers in the game and is one of the most clutch players in the game. Couturier stepped up like no one (outside of Paul Holmgren) expected. As a 19 year old, to be the main face off guy in the defensive zone, play on the penalty kill, and be a shut down player against one of the world's best (Malkin) is unheard of. Couturier is heads above what you expect a 19 year old to be, expect him to step his game up offensively.
Schenn had his ups and downs last year, and battled through injuries. He was the key piece in the trades this off season, but probably played the worst out of what the Flyers got for in return. The Flyers fully expect him to step his game up a notch and be an offensive threat next year.
Wingers
Scott Hartnell ($4.2 million cap hit, 1 year left, UFA in 13-14)
Jaromir Jagr (Unrestricted Free Agent this year)
Jakub Voracek (Restricted Free Agent this year)
Max Talbot ($1.75 million cap hit, 4 years left, UFA in 16-17)
Wayne Simmonds ($1.75 million cap hit, 1 year left, RFA in 13-14)
Jody Shelley ($1.1 million cap hit, 1 year left, UFA in 13-14)
Matt Read ($900,000, 2 years left, UFA in 14-15)
Ian Laperriere (Unrestricted Free Agent this year)
James Van Riemsdyk ($4.25 million cap hit, 6 years left, UFA in 18-19)
Harry Zolnierczyk (Restricted Free Agent this year)
Eric Wellwood ($580,000, 1 year left, RFA in 13-14)
Tom Sestito (Restricted Free Agent this year)
Zac Rinaldo ($544,000, 1 year left, RFA in 13-14
Scott Hartnell stepped up his game tremendously last year, scoring a career high and team leading 37 goals on the line with Claude Giroux and Jaromir Jagr.
Jagr was a big surprise signing last year and an even bigger surprise on the ice. At 40, and two years out of the NHL, nobody expected him to have the year he had. Torwards the end of the year it did seem like he was battling injuries and starting to slow down. Laviolette took him off the top line several times throughout the Devils series. Signing Jagr is not the top priority for the Flyers front office unless they can get him for cheap. He did admit, this was his favorite year of hockey, and for a multiple Hart Trophy and Stanley Cup winner that is saying something.
Voracek is a restricted free agent and the team would love to bring back a player with his speed and heart. He fit in very nicely with the Flyers up tempo pace and they would be dumb to let him walk.
Talbot is signed through 16-17 and will continue to bring toughness and hard work, including a great locker room presence for years to come.
Wayne Simmonds fit right in with the Flyers toughness and instantly became a fan favorite, he will be back again next year and it wouldn't surprise me to see him receive an extension.
Jody Shelley still has a year left on his contract, but it looks like the NHL no longer has a place for his type of one dimensional play.
Matt Read was the surprise of the team after going undrafted and made a strong case for rookie of the year. He still has 2 years left on his contract and will get every chance to be a Flyer for a long time.
Laperriere was still under contract this year, but was on the pre game show due to his injuries. His career is over.
James Van Riemsdyk received a new contract and will be a Flyers as long as they want him too. He's signed through 2018, but he needs to stay healthy to not be a hot commodity on the trade market. He showed signs of being great throughout the year but could not stay on the ice. JVR has the potential to be a top player in this league, and the Flyers would prefer it be wearing orange.
Zolnierczyk showed flashes in his 30+ games this year, but not enough to beat out Eric Wellwood for a playoff roster spot. Harry Z is a restricted free agent and might not have a spot on this team next year, while Wellwood showed that he can bring energy and speed both offensively and on the penalty kill.
Sestito is a restricted free agent as well, and didn't show much for the Flyers to keep him around. He's a big body and plays hard and will likely end up somewhere else.
Rinaldo at times was the most loved player in the Wells Fargo Center and the hated other times. He was always there to get the crowd and more importantly his teammates pumped up with a huge hit, but then let them down with stupid penalties as well. He will be back next year and is a restricted free agent in 13-14.
Part 2 Defense and Goaltending will follow tomorrow. Stay tuned.
Monday, May 7, 2012
Early prediction for 2012-13 Eagles 53 man roster Part 2 Defense
By: Steve Johnson
Offense predictions can be found here
DE (5)- Trent Cole, Jason Babin, Brandon Graham, Vinny Curry, Phillip Hunt
Brandon Graham has one more year to prove that he was worth the 13th overall pick, he will get every shot for that in training camp. Vinny Curry was the Eagles 2nd round pick this year, and he will fit perfectly into the Eagles wide 9 defense. Phillip Hunt will compete with Daryl Tapp for the last DE position. Hunt surprised everyone by making the team last year with his relentless motor.
DT (5)- Mike Patterson, Cullen Jenkins, Antonio Dixon, Fletcher Cox, Derek Landri
The Eagles like to rotate their DTs, which is why they moved up in the first round to select Cox. Cox will be a force on the Eagles line for years to come and will be a multiple pro bowler. Dixon comes back from injury last year after a great 2010 team. Landri was resigned after leading the team in tackles for loss last year as a role player in this defense.
LB (6)- Demeco Ryans, Mychal Kendricks, Jamar Chaney, Casey Matthews, Brian Rolle, Keenan Clayton
Demeco Ryans was a huge trade this off season, providing the Eagles with a LB the fans have been calling for years. Kendricks was their other second round pick and will start immediate, and ultimately become a fan favorite with Curry. Chaney will move outside to either the SAM or WILL depending on how they use Kendricks. Matthews, Rolle, Clayton, Moise Fokou Greg Llyod and Akeem Jordan will all compete for the backup roles. We expect Matthews and Rolle to make the team and contribute on special teams, neither player was ready to be placed in the starting lineup last year. Keenan Clayton (a player they like), Fokou and Jordan will likely battle it out for the final position, with two of them being released prior to the season.
CB (5)- Nnamdi Asomugha, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, Brandon Boykin, Curtis Marsh, Cliff Harris
With Asante Samuel traded, Rodgers-Cromartie is put in his natural position as an outside corner opposite of Asomugha. Expect a much better season from both, after a year of being in the system. Newly hired former Miami Dolphins interim coach and current secondary coach Todd Bowles will have his work cut out for him, especially if Juan Castillo falters and Bowles takes over as coordinator. Brandon Boykin was selected to play the slot and return kicks, and he was a complete steal in this draft class. Marsh returns from almost zero playing time last year, he was a 2011 third round pick that the coaching staff still likes. Cliff Harris went undrafted after being kicked off the Oregon football team for marijuana incidents. Harris has all the talent in the world, and was projected as a top pick, he will need to get his head on straight.
S (5)- Nate Allen, Jaiquawn Jarrett, Kurt Coleman, Colt Anderson, Phillip Thomas
Allen is finally healthy, and Jarrett will get every chance to learn the playbook and get the starting nod. Coleman played great last year, but he is nothing more than a 3rd safety and special teams standout in the NFL. Colt Anderson is coming off an injury, they would love for their best special teams player to be healthy. Phillip Thomas is my last man to make the team, he went undrafted out of Syracuse and will have to work his butt off to make this team.
ST (3)- Alex Henery, Ryan Tydlacka, Joe Dorenbos
Despite what some Eagles fans think, Alex Henery had the greatest season for a rookie kicker EVER. He was excellent and will be the Eagles kicker for many years to come. Ryan Tydlacka went undrafted and will compete with last years punter Chas Henry. Dorenbos is a top long snapper in the NFL and would have to be injured to lose his job.
Offense predictions can be found here
DE (5)- Trent Cole, Jason Babin, Brandon Graham, Vinny Curry, Phillip Hunt
Brandon Graham has one more year to prove that he was worth the 13th overall pick, he will get every shot for that in training camp. Vinny Curry was the Eagles 2nd round pick this year, and he will fit perfectly into the Eagles wide 9 defense. Phillip Hunt will compete with Daryl Tapp for the last DE position. Hunt surprised everyone by making the team last year with his relentless motor.
DT (5)- Mike Patterson, Cullen Jenkins, Antonio Dixon, Fletcher Cox, Derek Landri
The Eagles like to rotate their DTs, which is why they moved up in the first round to select Cox. Cox will be a force on the Eagles line for years to come and will be a multiple pro bowler. Dixon comes back from injury last year after a great 2010 team. Landri was resigned after leading the team in tackles for loss last year as a role player in this defense.
LB (6)- Demeco Ryans, Mychal Kendricks, Jamar Chaney, Casey Matthews, Brian Rolle, Keenan Clayton
Demeco Ryans was a huge trade this off season, providing the Eagles with a LB the fans have been calling for years. Kendricks was their other second round pick and will start immediate, and ultimately become a fan favorite with Curry. Chaney will move outside to either the SAM or WILL depending on how they use Kendricks. Matthews, Rolle, Clayton, Moise Fokou Greg Llyod and Akeem Jordan will all compete for the backup roles. We expect Matthews and Rolle to make the team and contribute on special teams, neither player was ready to be placed in the starting lineup last year. Keenan Clayton (a player they like), Fokou and Jordan will likely battle it out for the final position, with two of them being released prior to the season.
CB (5)- Nnamdi Asomugha, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, Brandon Boykin, Curtis Marsh, Cliff Harris
With Asante Samuel traded, Rodgers-Cromartie is put in his natural position as an outside corner opposite of Asomugha. Expect a much better season from both, after a year of being in the system. Newly hired former Miami Dolphins interim coach and current secondary coach Todd Bowles will have his work cut out for him, especially if Juan Castillo falters and Bowles takes over as coordinator. Brandon Boykin was selected to play the slot and return kicks, and he was a complete steal in this draft class. Marsh returns from almost zero playing time last year, he was a 2011 third round pick that the coaching staff still likes. Cliff Harris went undrafted after being kicked off the Oregon football team for marijuana incidents. Harris has all the talent in the world, and was projected as a top pick, he will need to get his head on straight.
S (5)- Nate Allen, Jaiquawn Jarrett, Kurt Coleman, Colt Anderson, Phillip Thomas
Allen is finally healthy, and Jarrett will get every chance to learn the playbook and get the starting nod. Coleman played great last year, but he is nothing more than a 3rd safety and special teams standout in the NFL. Colt Anderson is coming off an injury, they would love for their best special teams player to be healthy. Phillip Thomas is my last man to make the team, he went undrafted out of Syracuse and will have to work his butt off to make this team.
ST (3)- Alex Henery, Ryan Tydlacka, Joe Dorenbos
Despite what some Eagles fans think, Alex Henery had the greatest season for a rookie kicker EVER. He was excellent and will be the Eagles kicker for many years to come. Ryan Tydlacka went undrafted and will compete with last years punter Chas Henry. Dorenbos is a top long snapper in the NFL and would have to be injured to lose his job.
Friday, May 4, 2012
Early prediction for 2012-13 Eagles 53 man roster Part 1 Offense
By: Steve Johnson
Here are our predictions for the final roster of the 2012-13 Philadelphia Eagles. Granted this is barring injuries and any veteran signings. This is simply just a post draft look at the Eagles roster.
*- Starters are in Bold
QB (3)- Michael Vick, Trent Edwards, Nick Foles
When the Eagles went off the clock to select Nick Foles in the 3rd round, Mike Kafka went on the clock for teams looking for a QB. I like Kafka, he's smart, and knows the system, but if Vick were to go down, Trent Edwards provides more of a chance to win a couple games. Backup QB was clearly an issue last year, they addressed it this offseason.
RB (3)- LeSean McCoy, Dion Lewis, Bryce Brown
Dion Lewis didn't play bad last year, but he's nothing more than a 3rd down back you throw in every once in a while. Bryce Brown was the top recruit coming out of high school (above Trent Richardson) but after leaving 2 programs he fell off the map. In his pro day he ran a 4.37 40 (at 220 lbs), Eagles will give him a shot to make up for all his mistakes in his college career. He will compete with undrafted free agent Chris Polk from Washington. Polk had a huge workload at Washington, and is NFL ready, but doesn't have the upside of Brown.
FB (1)- Stanley Havili
Eagles chose not to resign Owen Schmitt. Havili was on the practice squad all of last year and provides some pass catching and running ability similar to Leonard Weaver. The Eagles don't know how to use a fullback correctly so he'll likely face a challenge from anyone from TEs to some linemen they found in the middle of no where.
WR (5) - DeSean Jackson, Jeremy Maclin, Jason Avant, Marvin McNutt, Riley Cooper
Marvin McNutt was somewhat of a steal in the 6th round for the Eagles. He's big like Riley Cooper but more accomplished and faster. They will compete for the 4th spot. Don't be surprised for a player like Damaris Johnson (undrafted free agent Kick Returner from Tulsa) impresses the coaches enough on special teams to give him a shot.
TE (2)- Brent Celek, Clay Harbor
The Eagles would have loved to grab a Tight End in the draft last weekend. They didn't, and they will have to deal with Clay Harbor as the backup. The Eagles never use 3 Tight Ends so adding another would be a waste of a roster spot they can use somewhere else.
OT (4)- Demetress Bell, Todd Herremans, King Dunlap, Dennis Kelly
Losing Jason Peters really hurt, but they went out and got the best LT available in free agency and he will have to do. Herremans might be the most versatile linemen in the NFL and he will start again at RT. Dunlap proved he can play when needed. They will give prospect Dennis Kelly a very long look. It's unlikely but Peters could go on the PUP list until week 8, after that they would have to put him on IR or use a roster spot on him. Either way 4 tackles are never suited up at the same time during games.
OG (4)- Evan Mathis, Danny Watkins, Julian Vandervelde, Brandon Washington
Evan Mathis returns after having one of the most productive seasons in the NFL last year. Expect a big year out of Danny Watkins. Vandervelde was a 5th round draft pick in 2011, he'll likely compete for the backup at both left and right guard. Washington was a top guard in the country in 2010, but switched to 2011 for his senior year, he struggled and Reid has said he will move him back to guard.
C (2)- Jason Kelce, Mike Gibson
Kelce was the steal of the draft last year when no one expected him to make the team, he stole the job and played well. Gibson was a draft choice a couple years ago. They didn't address the backup center position in the draft. He knows the system and another year in Howard Mudd's scheme will help him progress.
Here are our predictions for the final roster of the 2012-13 Philadelphia Eagles. Granted this is barring injuries and any veteran signings. This is simply just a post draft look at the Eagles roster.
*- Starters are in Bold
QB (3)- Michael Vick, Trent Edwards, Nick Foles
When the Eagles went off the clock to select Nick Foles in the 3rd round, Mike Kafka went on the clock for teams looking for a QB. I like Kafka, he's smart, and knows the system, but if Vick were to go down, Trent Edwards provides more of a chance to win a couple games. Backup QB was clearly an issue last year, they addressed it this offseason.
RB (3)- LeSean McCoy, Dion Lewis, Bryce Brown
Dion Lewis didn't play bad last year, but he's nothing more than a 3rd down back you throw in every once in a while. Bryce Brown was the top recruit coming out of high school (above Trent Richardson) but after leaving 2 programs he fell off the map. In his pro day he ran a 4.37 40 (at 220 lbs), Eagles will give him a shot to make up for all his mistakes in his college career. He will compete with undrafted free agent Chris Polk from Washington. Polk had a huge workload at Washington, and is NFL ready, but doesn't have the upside of Brown.
FB (1)- Stanley Havili
Eagles chose not to resign Owen Schmitt. Havili was on the practice squad all of last year and provides some pass catching and running ability similar to Leonard Weaver. The Eagles don't know how to use a fullback correctly so he'll likely face a challenge from anyone from TEs to some linemen they found in the middle of no where.
WR (5) - DeSean Jackson, Jeremy Maclin, Jason Avant, Marvin McNutt, Riley Cooper
Marvin McNutt was somewhat of a steal in the 6th round for the Eagles. He's big like Riley Cooper but more accomplished and faster. They will compete for the 4th spot. Don't be surprised for a player like Damaris Johnson (undrafted free agent Kick Returner from Tulsa) impresses the coaches enough on special teams to give him a shot.
TE (2)- Brent Celek, Clay Harbor
The Eagles would have loved to grab a Tight End in the draft last weekend. They didn't, and they will have to deal with Clay Harbor as the backup. The Eagles never use 3 Tight Ends so adding another would be a waste of a roster spot they can use somewhere else.
OT (4)- Demetress Bell, Todd Herremans, King Dunlap, Dennis Kelly
Losing Jason Peters really hurt, but they went out and got the best LT available in free agency and he will have to do. Herremans might be the most versatile linemen in the NFL and he will start again at RT. Dunlap proved he can play when needed. They will give prospect Dennis Kelly a very long look. It's unlikely but Peters could go on the PUP list until week 8, after that they would have to put him on IR or use a roster spot on him. Either way 4 tackles are never suited up at the same time during games.
OG (4)- Evan Mathis, Danny Watkins, Julian Vandervelde, Brandon Washington
Evan Mathis returns after having one of the most productive seasons in the NFL last year. Expect a big year out of Danny Watkins. Vandervelde was a 5th round draft pick in 2011, he'll likely compete for the backup at both left and right guard. Washington was a top guard in the country in 2010, but switched to 2011 for his senior year, he struggled and Reid has said he will move him back to guard.
C (2)- Jason Kelce, Mike Gibson
Kelce was the steal of the draft last year when no one expected him to make the team, he stole the job and played well. Gibson was a draft choice a couple years ago. They didn't address the backup center position in the draft. He knows the system and another year in Howard Mudd's scheme will help him progress.
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Thoughts on Game 2 of Flyers/Devils
By: Steve Johnson
Flyers off to quick start
The Flyers seemed to start off with a bunch of energy, something they didn't do in Game 1 and still pulled out a Win. Matt Read scored his third goal of the playoffs just 2 minutes into the game and it seemed like the Flyers would take control of it early
James Van Riemsdyk found his balls
Whatever Lavy said to him prior to the game worked. JVR was back to his 2011 playoff form using his size and speed together and going hard to the net. It's good to see him being aggressive, even if he was called for a penalty, that's what Lavy wanted to see.
Bryz had a good game
Despite the loss, Bryz played a great game in my opinion. He didn't allow a goal until the 3rd period, when it seemed like the Flyers were not as active as they started off. His teammates did not play well in front of him and did not have any sense of urgency to win this game.
Thoughts on Game 3
It's no time to panic with the series tied at 1, but a loss in game 3 could change the city's perspective on this series. The Flyers need to come out with some serious "jam" and take an early lead. The Devils are a completely different team than the Penguins. Despite winning the Penguins series, the Devils are not going to be a cake walk. This team plays great defense and plays hard and tough, just like the Flyers. I still expect the Flyers to win in 6, but they will have to step up their intensity in game 3 and leave Newark with a win.
Flyers off to quick start
The Flyers seemed to start off with a bunch of energy, something they didn't do in Game 1 and still pulled out a Win. Matt Read scored his third goal of the playoffs just 2 minutes into the game and it seemed like the Flyers would take control of it early
James Van Riemsdyk found his balls
Whatever Lavy said to him prior to the game worked. JVR was back to his 2011 playoff form using his size and speed together and going hard to the net. It's good to see him being aggressive, even if he was called for a penalty, that's what Lavy wanted to see.
Bryz had a good game
Despite the loss, Bryz played a great game in my opinion. He didn't allow a goal until the 3rd period, when it seemed like the Flyers were not as active as they started off. His teammates did not play well in front of him and did not have any sense of urgency to win this game.
Thoughts on Game 3
It's no time to panic with the series tied at 1, but a loss in game 3 could change the city's perspective on this series. The Flyers need to come out with some serious "jam" and take an early lead. The Devils are a completely different team than the Penguins. Despite winning the Penguins series, the Devils are not going to be a cake walk. This team plays great defense and plays hard and tough, just like the Flyers. I still expect the Flyers to win in 6, but they will have to step up their intensity in game 3 and leave Newark with a win.
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