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It appears Quick was pretty happy with his work, heres him after watching the replay. Jace Amaro . Chris Ivory . Six players scored in double figures for Boston. Rondos double-double was his second straight and fifth overall since he returned from a knee injury on Jan. 17. Jeff�Teague had 26 points and DeMarre�Carroll scored 24 off the bench for Atlanta, which lost for the 10th time in 11 games. Calvin Pryor . Pikus-Paces time was 52.92 seconds, 0.44 seconds ahead of Janine Flock of Austria and a half-second up on Shelley Rudman of Britain. Snow forced the cancellation of the second heat.ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. -- Running back Fred�Jackson immediately waved off the Buffalo Bills training staff once the cart pulled up along the sideline. "Yeah, I knew it was out there," Jackson recalled Monday. "And I knew I didnt need it." Sore as his sprained left knee felt a day earlier, Jackson had no intention of being carted off during a game at Miami for the second time in two years. Rather than climb aboard, Jackson grabbed his helmet and headed back on the field, where he proceeded to play a key role in a 23-21 win over the Dolphins. "Oh yeah, I was motivated," said Jackson, still stung by the memory of breaking his right leg at Miami in November 2011. "That was something that ran through my mind yesterday. And I wanted to be out there." Wearing a brace hes had on since first hurting his knee three weeks ago, Jackson persevered in producing a gutty performance that continued to solidify his position as the Bills vocal and inspirational leader. He scored on a 3-yard run in the first quarter after aggravating the injury a series earlier, when teammate Scott�Chandler rolled into the side of Jacksons knee on the sideline. And he was still at it in the final minutes. Jackson gained 16 yards on three consecutive carries -- including a 10-yard run to convert a third-and-4 at the Dolphins 28 -- to set up Dan�Carpenters game-winning 31-yard field goal with 33 seconds left. He finished with 36 yards rushing and 49 yards receiving in helping the Bills (3-4) snap a two-game skid and win a road game for the first time since Oct. 14, 2012, at Arizona. And dont be surprised to see Jackson playing this Sunday at New Orleans (5-1). "Its definitely sore today," Jackson said. "But I expect to be out there. Ill do everything I can." His teammates would expect nothing less from the seven-year veteran. "Hes got a lot of heart. Hes one of those guys whos a natural leader," guard Kraig�Urbik said. "When we need a little pick up or need a little extra, hes always the guy to provide it. Hes one of those guys that we alwayys rally behind. Jaiquawn Jarrett. " Jacksons resilience is beginning to reflect the identity of a young team that has shown no signs of quit this season despite a series of injuries to key regulars -- including rookie quarterback EJ�Manuel (sprained right knee). Buffalos three wins have been determined by a combined 6 points, and four losses determined by a combined 25. And the Bills have either led or been within a score of the lead in all seven games. Thats well ahead of the modest expectations that came with a team that underwent a near top-to-bottom overhaul this off-season and hasnt been to the playoffs in 13 seasons -- the NFLs longest active drought. "Im extremely proud," rookie coach Doug Marrone said. "Were fighting, fighting, fighting. And thats what were going to keep doing. ... Granted, were not happy with the record or where were at, but were working on changing that every single day." Marrone singled out Jackson for the leadership hes provided. "I think Fred is an outstanding pro, and he leads by example," Marrone said. "Theres a lot of youth in him which were very happy with." Youth is a relative term for Jackson. At 32, hes not sure how many more seasons hes got left, or how much longer his wobbly left knee can hold up this season. That leaves him focusing on short-term objectives, such as doing everything he can to turn the Bills into winners this season. "Weve got a great opportunity in front of us right now. And I want to be a part of it," Jackson said. "The confidence in this locker room is sky-high in here. We believe in ourselves. And theres nothing more powerful than a locker room that has confidence in itself." NOTES: Bills LB Manny�Lawson (hamstring) is expected to be limited in returning to practice this week after he was hurt Sunday. ... Buffalo has allowed two TDs rushing this season, the teams fewest through seven games since allowing two in 1982, according to STATS LLC. ... The Bills and Broncos are the NFLs only two teams to have scored at least 20 points in each game this season. ' ' '

Got a question on rule clarification, comments on rule enforcements or some memorable NHL stories? Kerry wants to answer your emails at cmonref@tsn. Evan Dietrich-Smith Buccaneers Jersey .ca! Last night I was focused on the Flyers come-from-behind win over the Red Wings on NBCSN but also kept �half an eye on the Montreal Canadiens frantic 4-3 shootout win over the New Jersey Devils via NHL Game Center Live on my computer screen. We have a number of questions involving two separate plays from the Canadiens-Devils game and both plays highlight the full concentration and split-second decisions required of a referee as he attempts to make the correct ruling. Obtaining the best sightline in advance is critical to correctly process information to make the right call. The first play in question was when Montreals Max�Pacioretty was on a breakaway and had the shaft of his stick break as trailing defender Jon�Merrill attempted a wild desperation stick swing at the attacker (Incident can be seen at 1:50 of attached highlights). I ran back in front of the television from my kitchen during an NBC intermission when I heard initial commentary that a stick slash had broken Paciorettys stick on a breakaway. I rounded the corner just in time to catch a glimpse of a replay showing the wild swing by Merrill coincide with the snap of Paciorettys stick shaft. No call resulted on the play and the initial commentary suggested a call was missed. I thought �oh no�, another missed stick slash on breakaway similar to one I viewed last week. Unaware of the time in the game this play had occurred I immediately sent out an S.O.S. via twitter; �Anybody see the broken-stick slash on a breakaway in NJ. Another non-penalty shot call. Guess they dont make sticks like they used to?� In the rush for social media assistance my misplaced question mark (?) logically appeared to some as though I was stating a call had been missed as opposed to seeking guidance. Once I was able to finally view the play it was obvious that Jon�Merrills stick clearly missed making contact with both Max�Pacioretty and his stick shaft. When Max pressured down on the shaft his stick simply broke. Both referee Rob Martell, who had set up in perfect position to judge the play on the ice, and Ray�Ferraro on the TSN broadcast from between the benches made the right call. Both men had the perfect sightline. The other play in question involved a pretty obvious trip/slew-foot by P.K.�Subban that took down Patrik�Elias just prior to David�Desharnais tipping in Brian�Giontas shot for the tying goal with just 36.6 seconds remaining (Incident can be seen at 1:33 of attached highlights). What wasnt so obvious on the play was that Elias set an illegal pick in an attempt to lockup up Subban and prevent his forecheck pinch with the Montreal net empty. With 44 seconds remaining Peter�Budaj bolted to the bench for an extra attacker. In anticipation of this the trailing referee crossed the ice from his position near the Montreal players bench to appropriately observe the legal five-foot substitution required to replace Budaj. That was all well and good, save the fact that both referees were now on the same side of the ice; opposite to where Elias and Subban contacted one another resulting in two separate infractions. Had the trailing referee been afforded the opportunity to observe this play from his normal position (near blue line on players bench side) I am confident an arm would have been raised for a delayed penalty call once Patrik�Elias leaned into Subban and then placed his stick across the midsection of the Habs star defenceman. Interference would have been the delayed call. Play would then quickly have been stopped once Subban, having been blocked by the illegal pick, extended his right skate behind the left leg of Elias and tripped the Devil player to the ice with a sneaky but obvious slew-foot. Coincidental minor penalties would have been assessed and Giontas shot would not have eventually found the back of the net on the Desharnais redirection. Gaining the best sightline is crucial in being able to accurately process information on every play. Sometimes that just isnt possible. As a result of the shootout win Subban and the Montreal Canadiens have to be very pleased this was just one of those times. Josh McCown Buccaneers Jersey . Blatter said at a news conference on Friday "I have not even the right" to discuss claims published this week by the Daily Telegraph. Doug Martin Buccaneers Jersey . -- Matt�Ryan needed one of the best games of his career to lead the Falcons and their depleted offence out of their three-game losing streak last week.PRINCE ALBERT, Sask. -- The Swift Current Broncos moved into a tie with Prince Albert for first place in the Western Hockey Leagues East Division with a 4-3 overtime win over the Raiders on Wednesday. Graham Black scored the winner for the Broncos, who won their fifth in a row. Coda Gordon and Jake DeBrusk scored in the first period for Swift Current (11-8-1), and Connor Sanvido made it 3-1 Broncos in the second. Dylan Busenius and Reid Gardiner scored for Prince Albert (11-7-1) in the second period, and Josh Morrissey got the equalizer in the third. Eetu Laurikainen made 24 saves for Swift Current, and Cole Cheveldave, who got an assist on Morrisseys goal, stopped 35 shots for the Raiders. --- PATS 5 HURRICANES 2 LETHBRIDGE, Alta. -- Morgan Klimchuks hat trick led Regina past the Hurricanes. Klimchuks hat trick, which included a short-handed goal and another on the power play, gave the Pats (10-9-0) a 4-0 lead. Jesse Zgraggen and Connor Gay also scored for the Pats. Reid Duke and Axel Blomqvist replied for WHL-worst Lethbridge (2-14-3). Regina goaltender Dawson MacAuley finished with 30 saves, while Hurricanes goalie Corbin Boes stopped 41 shots. --- CHIEFS 5 TIGERS 4 (OT) MEDICINE HAT, Alta. -- Mitch Holmbergs goal in overtime lifted Spokane past the Tigers. Holmberg scored 1:58 into OT for the Chiefs (13-6-0), while Mike Aviani had two in regulation and Adam Helewka and Riley Whittingham added singles. Markus Eisenschmid, Miles Koules, Cole Sanford and Trevor Cox had goals for Western Conference-leading Medicine Hat (11-3-3). Spokane goaltender Eric Williams and his Tigers counterpart Marek Langhamer each made 31 saves. --- AMERICANS 3 WINTERHAWKS 2 PORTLAND, Ore. -- Tri-City rallied from a 2-0 deficit to bbeat the WHL-leading Winterhawks. Buccaneers #11 Jersey. Brian Williams, Connor Rankin and Parker Bowles had a goal apiece for the Americans (11-8-2). Taylor Leier and Chase De Leo gave Portland (14-4-1) its lead. Evan Sarthou stopped 24 shots for Tri-City, while Brendan Burke made 27 saves for Portland. --- SILVERTIPS 3 BLAZERS 1 EVERETT, Wash. -- The Silvertips scored three unanswered goals en route to a win over Kamloops. Manraj Hayer, Joshua Winquist and Ivan Nikolishin each scored for Everett (12-3-2). Aspen Sterzer scored the lone goal for the Blazers (6-11-2) with just over a minute left in the third period. Everetts Daniel Cotton needed to make just 17 saves for the win, while Taran Kozun stopped 35 shots for Kamloops. --- ROCKETS 6 REBELS 2 KELOWNA, B.C. -- The Rockets came out firing with four consecutive goals in the first period against Red Deer. Riley Stadel, Madison Bowey, Damon Severson, Zach Franko, Carter Rigby and Rourke Chartier scored for Kelowna (11-2-2). Dominik Volek and Brooks Maxwell had the goals for the Rebels (7-10-1). Rockets goaltender Jordon Cooke stopped only 16 shots, while Patrik Bartosak and Taz Burman combined for 38 saves in net for Red Deer. --- OIL KINGS 5 ROYALS 0 VICTORIA -- Edgars Kulda scored a short-handed goal as Edmonton cruised past the Royals Kuldas first-period goal came with teammate Cole Benson in the penalty box for a too many men on the ice call. Henrik Samuelsson, Benson, Ben Carroll and Brett Pollock also scored for the Oil Kings (10-7-1), while Tristan Jarry stopped 21 shots for the shutout. Patrik Polivka was pulled from Victorias (10-8-1) net after giving up three goals on 18 shots. He was replaced by Coleman Vollrath, who stopped 22-of-24 shots. ' ' '

HILTON HEAD ISLAND, S. Chase Daniel .C. -- Former FedEx Cup champion Bill�Haas withdrew Friday from the RBC Heritage with a wrist injury. Haas was the first-round leader at the Masters a week ago after his opening 68. But he followed that up with a 78 and eventually wound up tied for 20th. At Harbour Town Golf Links, Haas opened with a 1-over 72 that left him six shots off the lead shared by Matt�Kuchar, Steven Langley and William�McGirt. Haas did not start his second round here. Haas is ranked 31st in the world. He has won at least one PGA Tour event in each of the past four seasons, the2011 Tour Championship that secured him that seasons FedEx Cup playoffs. Haas is the son of former PGA Tour and Champions Tour winner Jay�Haas. Dustin Colquitt . The Seahawks made the roster moves Saturday before Sundays game against Tennessee. Walters saw action in four games for the San Diego Chargers in 2011 with two catches for 27 yards. Phillip Gaines . Tavares, who turns 23 this month, is the 14th captain in the teams 42-year history. KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- This one could be a costly victory for the Kansas City Royals and an expensive loss for the Tampa Bay Rays. Jason�Vargas took a shutout into the ninth inning, Alcides�Escobar hit a three-run double and the Royals beat the Rays 4-2 Monday night in a game that included two significant injuries. Rays starter Matt�Moore (0-2) came out in the fifth inning with a sore left elbow. The All-Star lefty grimaced after throwing a pitch to Norichika�Aoki and was immediately removed by manager Joe Maddon. Two innings later, Royals second baseman Omar�Infante was hit in the left jaw by a pitch from Heath�Bell. A bleeding Infante walked off the field under his own power. Moore won 17 games last year, but missed 31 games with an elbow injury. He threw 78 pitches Monday and was replaced by Cesar�Ramos. "It has to be checked," Maddon said. "There will be tests tomorrow. We dont know whats going on yet. Well get an update later. He tried to talk me out of taking him out but I said I didnt think its a good idea. I went out there and I wanted to give him the benefit of the doubt. I like to communicate with our guys. He just felt something on a pitch. We knew we cant take any chances on anything." Moore said his final pitch was a changeup. "There was no particular pain," he said. "It really came out of nowhere. I felt it when I was pitching to Escobar, on a changeup, and then I threw two more changeups to Aoki and I felt it. I actually threw a curveball to Aoki to see if I would feel it then, too, but I didnt. It may have something to do with changeups in that situation." Moore, who will have an MRI exam Tuesday, went on the disabled list last July 31 with a sore elbow and did not return until Sept. 3. "Its the same pitch and the area is pretty much the exact same spot," Moore said. Infante was spitting blood as trainers held a towel to his face. "They put a number of stitches in there to close the cut," Royals manager Ned Yost said. "They are going to go scan it and see if his jaw is fractured. Well know more later. Im not going to make any decisions (on roster moves) until we find out whats going on with Omar and well move forward from there. Brandon Flowers. "He was bleeding tremendously from the cut. I didnt know until they had taken him upstairs that he got hit on the jaw. When we got there they had the towel (over his head) and there was blood all down his shirt. There was no cut on his forehead that I could see." Danny�Valencia ran for Infante, who signed a $30.25 million, four-year contract with the Royals in December after hitting .318 last season for Detroit. "He was smoked. Were worried about a concussion, too. It shakes you for sure because its a very ugly sound for somebody to be hit in the face," Yost said. "It was a cool night, but I noticed I broke out in a sweat real quick, so it definitely affected me. Of course, you have a lot of worry about it." Vargas (1-0) allowed four hits, walked one and struck out two in eight-plus innings, lowering his ERA to 1.20 in two starts. He lost his shutout bid when Ben�Zobrist homered on his second pitch in the ninth. Greg�Holland replaced Vargas and earned his third save, but not before giving up an RBI single to pinch-hitter Matt�Joyce. Escobar was 1 for 19 before his bases-loaded double off the left field wall on a 2-2 pitch from Bell with two outs in the seventh. Escobars three RBIs matched his career high. Alex�Gordon, Salvador�Perez and Lorenzo�Cain singled to load the bases before Escobars first extra-base hit of the season. Eric�Hosmer singled home Aoki, who tripled, in the first inning. The Rays, who have lost seven straight at Kauffman Stadium, have scored three runs in their four losses this year while going 2 for 33 with runners in scoring position during those defeats. Evan�Longoria had three of the Rays six hits. NOTES: The Royals placed LHPs Tim�Collins (strained left elbow) and Francisley�Bueno (sprained left little finger) on the disabled list. They recalled RHP Michael Mariot and LHP Donnie�Joseph from Triple-A Omaha. ... The Rays are 3-14 in road openers. They have not won a road opener since 2010 at Baltimore. ... Royals RHP Louis�Coleman (bruised right middle finger) threw a bullpen session and could be activated Tuesday, the first day he is eligible to come off the disabled list. ' ' '

PHILADELPHIA - The family of the late NFL star Junior�Seau plans to object to the proposed US$765 million settlement of player concussion claims because the fund would not pay wrongful death claims to survivors. Dan Fouts Jersey . Although the players lawsuits accused the NFL of concealing known concussion risks, there would be no blame assessed as part of the settlement, and no punitive damages for pain and suffering. "Mr. Seaus children have their own claims for the wrong the NFL did to them. His children are not suing for their fathers pain and suffering, they are suing for their own," lawyer Steven M. Strauss wrote in a court filing Friday that signalled the familys intent to pursue an individual lawsuit. Other potential critics to the settlement reached by players lawyers and the league are also starting to emerge � and the judge overseeing the case has herself expressed doubts the sum is big enough. About 50 plaintiffs lawyers met in New York last week to learn more about the settlement from the lead lawyers, but some left dissatisfied. "This could be a great settlement, this could be a terrible settlement, but I dont know," said Chicago lawyer Thomas A. Demetrio, who represents 10 players, including the family of the late Dave Duerson, a four-time Pro Bowler who mostly played with the Chicago Bears. Duerson fatally shot himself in the chest, leaving his brain intact for autopsy. Like Seau, he was diagnosed with CTE, or chronic traumatic encephalopathy. An honours graduate and trustee of the University of Notre Dame, he was 50 when he died, which would factor into his familys payout. "His estate will receive $2.2 million. Thats not adequate," Demetrio said. U.S. District Judge Anita Brody, who must weigh the deal, also wants more actuarial details than filed with the settlement papers. She preliminarily rejected the plan last month, questioning whether $765 million will be enough to fund about 20,000 claims involved for 65 years, as promised. The architects of the plan argue that the players could end up with nothing if the lawsuits are thrown out of court. The NFL had argued that the claims belonged in arbitration. The retirees would also have to prove their injuries came from NFL concussions, and not those suffered earlier. "The retired player community has provided overwhelming support for this agreement, and we look forward to finalizing it soon so they can begin taking advantage of its benefits," lead lawyers Christopher Seeger and Sol Weiss said in a statement Monday that recognized the work of other lawyers on the case. The NFL settlement, if approved in court, would be capped at $4 million on behalf of players diagnosed after their deaths with traumatic brain injury. The payments could go as high as $5 million for younger men with Alzheimers disease, but many more plaintiffs with mild dementia would get $25,000 or less under the deal. Demetrio wants to know how much of the NFLs payment will come from insurance, and why the lawyers would split another $112 million, when the case did not reach discovery or trial. The NFLs annual revenues top $9 billion. "Its very, very unusual ... for all the plaintiffs to not know whats going on," Demetrio said. "Theyre acting like the Lone Ranger." The Seau Family, meanwhile, is also concerned that the deal calls for a stay on individual suits until all appeals are finalized with the settlement. "Junior�Seaus children could be forced to wait years for justice, while the NFL continues to make billions of dollars and the memories of witnesses grow ever more distant," the filing said. The NFL, which on Monday joined two U.S. lawmakers in pushing for legislation to help protect student athletes from concussions, declined comment Monday on the Seau familys objections. Danny Woodhead Jersey . The incident happened midway through the second period during Montreals 5-2 victory on Thursday night. Emelin was not penalized on the play. It was the first discipline that Emelin has received in his NHL career. Sean Lissemore Jersey .J. -- With the New Jersey Devils fighting for a playoff spot, Jon�Merrill picked the perfect time to score his first NHL goal.PARIS -- Gael Monfils will miss Frances Davis Cup quarterfinal against the United States because of an abdominal injury on his left side. The French tennis federation said Monday that coach Guy Forget will soon name his replacement for the 25-year-old Monfils for the contest at Monte Carlo Country Club, which starts Friday. Monfils -- who is 14th in the ATP raankings -- started experiencing pain during practice Sunday and a subsequent MRI test turned up a lesion on his left oblique muscle. Philip Rivers Womens Jersey. He will need to rest for 15 days. The French team includes Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, Julien Benneteau and Michael Llodra. The U.S. or France will face the winner of the quarterfinal between Spain and Austria. ' ' '

GLENDALE, Ariz. Andre Tippett Patriots Jersey . -- A win wasnt going to help the Phoenix Coyotes. The playoffs were already out of reach and there was nothing to gain. But as they went into their final game of the season, the Coyotes faced a must-win -- for their peace of mind heading into the off-season. What had been dubbed "That stupid streak" had to end. Dave Moss scored late in the third period, Thomas�Greiss stopped 16 shots, and the Coyotes snapped a seven-game skid with a 2-1 win over the Dallas Stars on Sunday night in the season finale for both teams. "Thats something we talked about: That stupid streak, someone has to end it," Moss said. "We were able to get a win, which is a good way to end, but ultimately its not where we want to be." Knocked out of playoff contention on Friday, the Coyotes wanted desperately to break the season-worst losing streak. Shane�Doan scored, Greiss gave them a chance with some difficult saves, and Moss finished it with a one-timer past Tim�Thomas with 2:31 left. The Coyotes finished two points behind Dallas for the final playoff spot in the Western Conference, but at least they went out on a winning note. It would have been an awfully long summer had they not. "It was important for us," Doan said. "Its obviously the way it ends with the streak, its good to win one. We had to win one." Dallas, already locked into a first-round playoff series with Anaheim, rested many of its key players for the finale. The Stars kept it close behind Colton�Sceviours first-period goal and 29 saves by Thomas, but couldnt get anything past Greiss with an extra attacker in the closing seconds. "I still slammed a water bottle there at the end," Stars coach Lindy Ruff said. "You still dont want to lose. I didnt want to lose that game. The only bitter taste was the end of the game." The Coyotes had hoped this season finale would put a stamp on their playoff bid. Instead, it turned into a play-out-the-string game that mattered little to either team. The Stars gave Phoenix every opportunity to take the Western Conferences final playoff spot, yet the Coyotes were unable to make up any ground, thanks to a six-game losing streak. Dallas clinched their first playoff appearance since 2008 by beating Colorado on Friday, and Phoenix still couldnt shake its doldrums against depleted San Jose on Saturday, losing to the Sharks 3-2. The Stars will open the playoffs on Wednesday, so captain Jamie�Benn and assistant captains Trevor�Daley and Ray�Whitney were all given the night off against Phoenix. Like they did on Saturday, the Coyotes got off to a lackadaisical start and fell behind when Sceviour got Greiss off-balance with a couple of dekes and scored on a power play after a nifty backhand pass from Vernon�Fiddler. Phoenix generated some good chances in the second period, and Doan broke through with his 23rd goal, redirecting a shot from the point by Zbynek�Michalek past Thomas. In the third period, Greiss made consecutive saves on Tyler�Seguin, including one on a rebound after sliding across the crease and nearly doing the splits. Moss put the Coyotes up late, and Greiss made some difficult saves in the closing seconds after Dallas pulled Thomas. The Stars lost, but they had bigger things on their minds. "Its kind of hard to do it when youre excited for the playoffs," Stars defenceman Alex�Goligoski said. "But for the most part, we played well enough to stay in the game until late." NOTES: The Phoenix Coyotes played their final game before changing to the Arizona Coyotes next season. The new ownership group called for the change to make the name more inclusive for the entire state. ... Sceviours goal was his eighth of the season. ... Coyotes LW Lauri�Korpikoski played his 400th career NHL game. Joe Vellano Jersey . The Clippers were angry about blowing a big lead; the Kings didnt like being in that kind of hole and nearly digging themselves out only to lose. Kevin Faulk Womens Jersey . Switzerland had already secured the match with its doubles victory on Saturday. On Friday, Roger Federer and Stanislas Wawrinka both won their singles matches and pulled out of the reverse singles.R.A.�Dickey lost on Opening Day and Jose�Reyes is on the disabled list. Stop me if youve heard this one before, because amazingly its a scenario that Blue Jays fans are now experiencing for the second straight April. Add in the fact that closer Casey�Janssen was placed on the DL on the eve of the season, and you could argue things are even worse than they were a year ago for the Jays. Lets get it out of the way right off the top - it was Game 1 of 162. A baseball fan wouldnt feel uncomfortable about a teams chances after just one game, right? But theres no question that theres a sense of deja vu for Toronto fans after Mondays 9-2 loss to the Tampa Bay Rays. Bad starting pitching last April coupled with the injury to Reyes pretty much killed the Jays chances at contending by the time the calendar flipped to May. So is it an overreaction this time around to have that same ominous feeling that this is nothing more than a continuation of last season? Sure, Tampa Bay is considered a World Series contender and theres no shame in losing to former Cy Young winner David�Price. But still. In the 1989 baseball cult classic film "Major League", it was commentator Harry Doyle, played by the legendary Bob Uecker, who said "a lot of people say you can tell how the seasons gonna go by the first hitter of the year. Alfonzo Dennard Jersey. " Willie Mays Hays legged out an infield single for the Indians in the movie, then got picked off first base. On Monday, Reyes never made it that far. In the first at-bat of the Blue Jays season, he pulled up while running to first base after aggravating the hamstring injury that had been bothering him during spring training. The team placed him on the 15-day disabled list after the game, meaning it will be the middle of the month at best before we see Torontos star leadoff hitter in the lineup again. The Blue Jays will play three more games at Tropicana Field this week, a place where they have not won a series since 2007. Then its home for three against the revamped New York Yankees to close out the first week of the season. Last year the Blue Jays finished the first week with a record of 2-4, and its entirely possible they could be in that zone again. Given, its very, very early. You cant judge a major league season by the first game. But do you feel uncomfortable about the Blue Jays after witnessing their Opening Day loss? Its Your! Call. ' ' '

GUELPH, Ont. Ellis Lankster . - Scott Kosmachuk scored four times and Nick Ebert had two goals and two assists as the Guelph Storm pummelled the Sarnia Sting 13-1 on Friday in Ontario Hockey League action. Kerby Rychel also had a pair of goals for Guelph (52-12-3), which clinched first overall in the OHL standings, while Phil Baltisberger, Zac Leslie, Robbie Fabbri, Jason Dickinson and Marc Stevens added single goals. Justin Nicholas made 19 saves for the Storm. Hayden Hodgson scored the lone goal for the Sting (17-43-5) and Brodie Barrick gave up all 13 goals on 61 shots against. --- FRONTENACS 5 67s 4 (OT) KINGSTON, Ont. � Robert Polesello scored twice, including the winner, as the Frontenacs slipped past Ottawa. Michael Moffat, Darcy Greenaway and Henri Ikonen also scored for Kingston (38-23-6) and Evan McEneny chipped in with three assists. Connor Brown, Dante Salituro, Travis Konecny and Tyler Hill scored for the 67s (23-38-6), who are on a four-game slide and two points behind Mississauga for the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Matt Mahalak made 26 saves for the Frontenacs while Philippe Trudeau turned away 43-of-48 shots for Ottawa. --- OTTERS 10 WHALERS 1 PLYMOUTH, Mich. � Connor McDavid, Brendan Gaunce and Michael Curtis each scored twice as Erie hammered the Whalers for its seventh straight victory. Jake Evans, Spencer Abraham, Dane Fox and Andre Burakovsky also scored for the Otters (51-14-2) while Burakovsky tacked on two assists for a three-point night. Zach Lorentz scored the lone goal for Plymouth (27-33-7). Eries Devin Williams made 24 saves for the win as Zack Bowman allowed 10 goals on 54 shots for the Whalers. --- GREYHOUNDS 6 SPIRIT 5 SAULT STE. MARIE, Ont. � Jorgen Karterud and Bryan Moore each had two goals and an assist as the Greyhounds edged Saginaw. Sergey Tolchinksy scored once and set up two more for Sault Ste. Marie (43-17-6) while Charley Graaskamp added his first-career OHL goal. Justin Kea had a pair of goals for the Spirit (32-29-5). Luke Cairns, Mitchell Stephens and Jacob Ringuette had the others. Matt Murray made 28 saves for the Greyhounds. Saginaws Nikita Serebryakov stopped 28-of-34 shots in defeat. --- SPITFIRES 3 RANGERS 2 (SO) KITCHENER, Ont. � Brady Vail scored the winner and Alex Fotinos made 50 saves as Windsor came from behind to defeat the Rangers and end a five-game slide. Vail also had a goal and an assist in regulation for the Spitfires (37-27-3), who trailed 2-0 with less than five minutes remaining in regulation, and Ben Johnson scored the other. Curtis Meighan and Dmitrii Sergeev scored for Kitchener (22-41-5), which dropped its 11th game in a row. Matthew Greenfield made 31 saves for the Rangers. --- KNIGHTS 4 ATTACK 2 LONDON, Ont. � Chris Tierney scored twice as the Knights doubled up Owen Sound for their fourth win in a row. Bo Horvat and Owen MacDonald also scored for London (48-13-4) and Josh Anderson had two assists. Kurtis Gabriel and Kyle Hope each had a goal and an assist for the Attack (30-29-8). Anthony Stolarz made 23 saves for the Knights. Owen Sounds Jack Flinn stopped 34-of-38 shots in defeat. --- STEELHEADS 2 ICEDOGS 1 (SO) MISSISSAUGA, Ont. � Lucas Venuto and Bryson Cianfrone scored in the shootout as the Steelheads kept their playoff hopes alive by downing Niagara. Andrew Goldberg scored in regulation for Mississauga (24-37-6), which holds the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference with one game to play in regular-season action. Billy Jenkins scored for the Ice Dogs (23-35-9), who are seventh in the East. Spencer Martin made 31 saves for the Steelheads while Niagaras Brent Moran stopped 29 shots in defeat. --- BATTALION 5 WOLVES 3 SUDBURY, Ont. � Brett McKenzie had a pair of goals as North Bay earned its fifth straight win by downing the Wolves. Barclay Goodrow, Matt MacLeod and Mathew Santos also scored for the Battalion (37-24-6). Nicholas Baptiste scored for Sudbury (32-23-11) and assisted on goals by Nathan Pancel and Connor Crisp. North Bays Brendan ONeill made 26 saves for the win. Franky Palazzese kicked out 30-of-34 shots for the Wolves. --- GENERALS 3 BULLS 2 (OT) OSHAWA, Ont. � Michael Dal Colle scored at 4:57 of overtime as the Generals ended Bellevilles attempt at catching the eighth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Bradley Latour and Scott Laughton scored in regulation for Oshawa (42-19-6), which ended a three-game skid, and Cole Cassels had two assists. Jordan Subban and Cameron Brace scored for the Bulls (22-38-7), who sit 10th in the East. Daniel Altshuller made 30 saves for the Generals while Bellevilles Charlie Graham stopped 28-of-31 shots in defeat. --- Willie Colon . - Dwight�Howard returned for the first time to Staples Center, where the Los Angeles Clippers ran his Houston Rockets off the floor with their most points in four years. Joe Klecko .Y. -- Bills starting defensive tackle Marcell�Dareus wont be ready for the opening of training camp in his latest off-season setback.TORONTO � Minutes after Kevin�Pillar played the hero in Monday nights 5-4 Blue Jays walk off win over the Twins, he alluded to a conversation he shared with Jose�Bautista earlier in the evening. The two were in the batting cage moments before game time. Bautista was taking final warm up cuts. Pillar was hitting soft toss. The one-time utility player turned All-Star pulled aside the clubs young, fourth outfielder and offered him some advice. Pillar described it as a discussion about hitting. Bautista told him there was nothing wrong with his swing, that he should remain aggressive in the batters box in order that the pitcher doesnt get too comfortable. He reminded Pillar that in Pillars role, he could step to the plate in crucial, late-game situations. Sure enough, Pillar got the game-winning single to snap a 4-4 tie in the ninth inning. Sure enough, he remained aggressive, perhaps too much so early in the at-bat when Pillar swung at the first two pitches down and out of the strike zone. With the count 1-2, Pillar took a pitch on the outer half to right field, Erik�Kratz came around to score and the Blue Jays celebrated. Pillar thought enough of the conversation to share it with the assembled media postgame. Bautista seemed surprised to be approached on the topic. "You hope to have an effect on all your teammates, no matter what you talk about or discuss," said Bautista. "Even if its, hey youre opening up a little bit or having a 10-minute talk about being mentally ready, preparation and mindset and all that. You hope that your teammates listen to you. You dont hope that they do exactly what you say and if you say hop on one foot they start doing it, but if you make a comment that you think is going to help you hope they at least listen. Digest it and if it helps and it works then so be it." The type of conversation Bautista had with Pillar is rare this season, according to Bautista, because the Blue Jays are laden with veterans. The need doesnt arise as often. This, too, is the second year the group has been together after being arranged in the flurry of high-profile offseason moves made in November and December, 2012. "I think each person is more knowledgeable of others capabilities, more realistic with the expectations," said Bautista. "I think last year, people didnt know what to expect exactly with other players. Expectations might have been a little unrealistic, sometimes on the higher end and sometimes on the lower end. Sometimes you might have expected more out of somebody and that might have been not right. Sometimes you expected less and the guys surprise you. So now I think everybody is more in tune with each others capabilities." DICKEY THROWING MORE FASTBALLS R.A.�Dickey is using his fasttball more this season than he did last year. Dennis Byrd. . Hes thrown a heater 14.3 per cent of the time in 2014, compared to 11.9 per cent last season. This years number is more reflective of his 2012 Cy Young award season with the Mets, when 14 per cent of his pitches were fastballs. "I think its conscious because Ive had a lot of high-pitch games," said Dickey. "I had a 31-pitch first inning against (the Twins on Monday night), I had like a 30-pitch against the Royals, first inning. I need to get back to trying to induce contact earlier in counts so in that regard it has been something that Ive consciously tried to do. Especially with teams, Minnesota for instance is a team that leads the league in pitches taken so whenever you have a club like that you want to try to get ahead of guys as much as possible." Dickey is also conscious of his walk rate, which has skyrocketed this year. Hes issued a free pass to 10.2 per cent of hitters hes faced, compared to 7.5 per cent last year and 5.8 per cent in 2012. In each of his last two starts, hes allowed home runs off his fastball. On June 4 in Detroit, Miguel�Cabrera took him deep on a first pitch fastball in the first inning. On Monday night against the Twins, leadoff hitter Danny Santana hit a home run off a full count fastball. Dickey had been falling behind in that first inning in Detroit and thought he could sneak a heater by Cabrera. "That was just a roll of the dice," said Dickey. "I had gone 2-0 with the first two hitters and felt that he would want to get in a hitters count. I tried to steal a strike the first time through the lineup and his numbers off me, I think hes had like 14 at-bats and two first-pitch swings and so the percentages were in my favour that he was taking and so I tried to play to those and got burned." Half of the home runs Dickeys allowed this season, five of 10, have been off fastballs. Has he become too predictable, throwing fastballs when in need of a strike? "I would hope not because I try to do a good job of throwing a lot of 2-0, 3-1, 3-2 knuckleballs," said Dickey. "Im not in the habit of routinely throwing a fastball in a fastball count but because I dont feature the same velocity as a lot of guys its a lot easier to put the barrel on the ball if theyve seen multiple fastballs in an at-bat; if theyre not well located in particular." JAYS INK TWO MORE PICKS The Blue Jays locked up their second and fifth round picks from last weeks amateur draft. They are highly-touted right-handed pitcher Sean Reid-Foley (49th overall) out of Sandalwood High School in Jacksonville, Florida and centerfielder Lane Thomas (144th overall) out of Bearden High School in Knoxville, Tennessee. Both players are 18 years old. ' ' '

COLLEGE STATION, Texas -- Johnny�Manziels NFL pro day had a former president, lots of swag, a Drake soundtrack and even some football, too. Kelvin Benjamin Jersey. The 2012 Heisman Trophy winner threw for 75 officials from 30 teams on the Texas A&M campus Thursday. He also had some special guests, as former President George H.W. Bush and wife Barbara -- and her two dogs -- rolled into the facility on golf carts about 10 minutes into the workout. The always flashy Manziel was true to his over-the-top Johnny Football persona, trotting into the facility with his receivers as a tune by his buddy Drake blasted through the building. He wore camouflage shorts, a black Nike jersey with his white No. 2 and caused a stir by wearing shoulder pads and a helmet. Manziel didnt understand why it was a big deal. "You play the game in shoulder pads on Sundays," he said. "Why not come out and do it? ... For me it was a no-brainer." Manziel threw about 65 passes to six receivers, including A&M teammate Mike Evans, who like Manziel is expected to be a first round pick in the May draft. Only two passes werent caught and Evans grabbed a third long pass out of bounds. "I felt like it was good," Manziel said. "(I) was obviously going for perfection. So had a couple balls hit the ground. One was on me. One was a little bit high. I couldve got it down for him a little bit." Quarterback guru George Whitfield ran the workout. Manziel has worked with Whitfield throughout his career and has spent a big chunk of the last 2 1/2 months working with him in California. Whitfield raved about his competitiveness. "This wasnt just merely a set of routes that he was just going to go through and throw," Whitfield said. "It just feels like ... life is riding on every pass with him." Eight NFL general managers and eight head coaches were among the group, including Texans general manager Rick Smith and coach Bill OBrien. Houston has the top overall pick in the draft. Smith and OBrien liked what they saw from Manziel, but both cautioned that this is just one step in a long process. "He made the throws that you look for and that you wanted to see so it was good," Smith said. "Its just a part of it and it was impressive." Manziel, who started at A&M for two seasons, planned to meet with several teams on Thursday afternoon after the workout. Several coaches were impressed that Manziel called all the NFL officials onto the field at the end of his workout to personally thank them for coming. "College Stations a little bit of a tricky spot to get to," he said. "For me to call those guys up, just wanted to speak on my behalf as well as the six guys behind me and thank them for coming out." Tampa Bay coach Lovie Smith, who grew up in Big Sandy, Texas, enjoyed seeing Bush at the event. "Thats a first, a workout with an ex-president," Smith said. "But they do things a little differently in Texas, which is a good thing, me being a Texan." Bush sat in his golf cart during the event and posed for pictures with dozens of people afterward. But Secret Service agents shooed away reporters looking to talk to the 41st president. Manziel said he didnt notice when Bush came in. "No," he said. "I was trying to go 65 for 65." Several more Drake songs played after his introductory one and he looked loose during the workout, at times bobbing his head, covered in the matte black helmet, to the beats. There was a brief hitch in the playlist, though. When he began the workout the explicit and expletive-laden versions of the songs were played. When the 89-year-old Bush entered the building, the soundtrack quickly switched to an edited version of the same songs. He worked under centre, making throws of all distances, on the run and in the pocket. Whitfield added some challenges to the workout, waving a broom and chasing him with it on several throws. "We wanted to show that we didnt have anything to hide, that we could come out here and go through our seven-step footwork and go through all the footwork that we thought that these guys want to see," Manziel said. He finished the day with a long completion to Evans and yelled Boom! and the assembled crowd broke into applause. Whitfield was pleased with how the day went and thinks Manziel has improved since the end of the season. "He learned how big of a jump it is to go from playing on Saturdays to playing on Sundays and its a grueling process," Whitfield said. "Secondly hes come an awfully long way in his body. Hes an awful lot stronger. Hes put in his work." Panthers Sam Mills Lights Out Jersey . Jamies number grades given are out of five, with five being the best mark. Marc-Andre�Fleury, Penguins (3) - Surrendered a tough first goal against on a deflection through the body short side. Panthers Luke Kuechly Black Jersey . -- For two teams that only face each other twice a year, Sacramento and Boston sure played like longtime rivals.ANNAPOLIS, Md. -- Maryland had just marched 99 yards to take a fourth-quarter lead, and it was up to Marshall to either respond or succumb. "These kids never flinched," coach Doc Holliday said. "The one thing I like about this group is that it didnt matter." With standout quarterback Rakeem Cato leading the way, the Thundering Herd scored two touchdowns in the final 12 minutes to pull out a 31-20 victory Friday. Cato went 28 for 44 for 337 yards and three touchdowns with no interceptions. The most notable part about his performance was that he saved the best for last. Marshall (10-4) trailed 20-17 before Cato brought them back. After directing a 63-yard march to put Marshall up 24-20 with 12:05 left, Cato clinched it with an 8-yard touchdown throw to Gator Hoskins with 3:42 to play. Cato had a brilliant season before this game, throwing for 3,579 yards and 36 touchdowns. But this performance -- on a national stage against an Atlantic Coast Conference foe -- served as the perfect finish. "I tell the guys all the time, Big-time players make big-time plays in a big-time game, and this was a big-time game," Cato said. He had plenty of help. Hoskins had six catches for 104 yards and two scores, Tommy Shuler caught nine passes for 68 yards and a touchdown, punter Tyler Williams pinned the Terrapins inside the 10 four times, and Marshalls underappreciated defence played a huge role. Maryland (7-6) scored only one touchdown after halftime, and A.J. Leggett followed Catos final TD pass with an interception to set off a celebration among the huge gathering of Marshall fans among the crowd of 30,163. "Its a great way to send the seniors out," Holliday said. Making its first bowl appearance under third-year coach Randy Edsall, Maryland closed out its association with the ACC by falling to the runner-up in Conference USA. The Terrapins will join the Big Ten next year. Despite the loss, Maryland had its first winning season since 2010 and finished with more victories than in Edsalls first two years combined. "I think this season really helped us as we leave the ACC and enter the Big Ten," Edsall said. Brandon Ross rushed for 116 yards for Maryland, and C.J. Brown went 14 for 24 for 197 yards. Although the Terrapins amassed 391 yards, they converted only two of 14 third-down tries. "We kept hurtting ourselves with penalties, little things that were not helping us on first and second down which were creating unmanageable third downs," Brown said. Panthers Sam Mills Youth Jersey. "There wasnt anything they did that we hadnt seen before." After a whirlwind first half that produced 30 points and 24 first downs, the teams settled into a defensive struggle in the third quarter. Each of the first four possessions ended in punts, but on the last one Marshall pinned the Terrapins on their own 1. In the same situation earlier in the game, Maryland ran three times for 2 yards and punted. This time, the Terrapins put together a 17-play drive that included a pair of fourth down conversions and lasted for 7 minutes, 44 seconds. The 99-yard march ended with a 2-yard pass from Brown to tight end Dave Stinebaugh, giving Maryland a 20-17 lead with 14:56 left. Marshall was quick to respond. Cato completed two third-down passes, and Essray Taliaferro ran in from the 7 to make it 24-20. "To be able to answer back like that was huge," Holliday said. Brown subsequently came up short on a third-and-5 bootleg, providing Cato the opportunity to put the game away. Although the Terrapins got the stop they needed, Cato came up big during the next series. After completing a 28-yard pass to Hoskins on third-and-11, Cato connected with Hoskins again in the end zone. It was Hoskins second touchdown of the game and 15th of the season, most in the nation for tight ends. Cato went 16 for 25 for 193 and two touchdowns in the first half to provide the Thundering Herd with a 17-13 lead. After pinning the Terrapins near their own goal line, Marshall went up 7-0 with a 37-yard drive that ended with Catos 1-yard touchdown pass to Shuler. Maryland tied it with a 29-yard touchdown throw from Brown to Levern Jacobs, but the Thundering Herd promptly regained the lead with a lengthy march that produced an 8-yard touchdown pass from Cato to Hoskins. After Maryland kicked a field goal, Marshall got one of its own for a 17-10 lead. Near the end of the half, Maryland moved 81 yards in 10 plays to set up Brad Craddock for his second field goal. On this day, the Terrapins needed touchdowns to overcome Cato and Marshalls formidable attack. "The problem we had was we got down there in the red zone and ended up kicking field goals," Edsall lamented. ' ' '

Roy Nelson may be awaiting the biggest decision of his career. Dee Ford . According to Bloody Elbows Steph Daniels, the loveable UFC heavyweight contender is interested in filling the shoes of Keith Kizer as Executive Director of the Nevada State Athletic Commission.� Kizer announced his resignation at the beginning of January. "I have put my application in. My wife and I were talking about having something besides fighting to fall back on, and I think I would be able to do some good. This is my hometown, its where I was born and raised, so I feel its a way for me to help further the sport," Nelson told Daniels on Monday. "With me, I can draw more people back to Vegas to help the budget. Thats a big part of it. Of course I want to help get the sport cleaned up, but helping Nevada financially and bringing more revenue in is one of the primary goals I have. The others involve making sure we have better officiating and better fighter safety." Nelson (20-9) broke into the UFC by winning "The Ultimate Fighter" reality show in 2009. After a stunning upset of 7-foot heavyweight Stefan Struve in March 2010, the former International Fight League champion found himself one fight away from a UFC heavyweight title shot. However, he was stopped in his tracks by eventual heavyweight champion Junior dos Santos -- who captured the title two fights later -- in August that same year. Nelson never earned a title shot and has fallen to No. 11 in the division after consecutive losses in 2013. Nelson told Daniels he has yet to inform the UFC of his plans, but hopes he will receive full support from the organization. "I think theyd probably be happy that Im just trying to make the sport better. It would be the building of a relationship that would help the UFC, MMA and all of combat sports in Nevada," he said. Tamba Hali . PETERSBURG, Fla. Anthony Fasano .Y. -- High hopes have given way to high anxiety in New York.SPOKANE, Wash. - Corbin Boes stopped 30 shots as the Portland Winterhawks extended their win streak to 21 games by downing the host Spokane Chiefs 2-0 on Friday in Western Hockey League action. Alex Schoenborn opened the scoring for the Winterhawks (47-12-5), who havent lost since dropping a 3-2 shootout decision to the Victoria Royals on Jan. 10, and Chase De Leo added an insurance goal in the second period. Portlands Nicolas Petan had his 16-game point streak snapped in the win, as did Oliver Bjorkstrand, who entered the game with at least one point in 14 straight contests. Defenceman Matt Sozanski was caught on the ice for both goals against while Eric Williams stopped 20-of-22 shots for the Chiefs (36-22-6). --- WARRIORS 5 HURRICANES 2 MOOSE JAW, Mich. -- Justin Paulic made 24 saves as the Warriors handed Lethbridge its eighth loss in a row. Colton McCarthy and Jack Rodewald each had a goal and an assist for Moose Jaw (17-38-9) while Miles Warkentine, Sam Fioretti and Alexey Slepstov added the others. Tyler Bell and Taylor Cooper supplied the scoring for the Hurricanes (12-49-5). Lethbridges Teagan Sacher stopped 27-of-32 shots in a losing cause. --- PATS 4 BRONCOS 3 (OT) REGINA -- Connor Gay scored twice, including 4:13 into extra time as the Pats came from behind to edge Swift Current. Dyson Stevenson and Patrick DAmico also scored for Regina (36-23-6), which trailed 2-0 heading into the second period. The Broncos (31-24-9) got goals from Nathan Burns, Jake DeBrusk and Coda Gordon. Daniel Wapple made 34 saves for the Pats while Eetu Laurikainen turned away 36-of-40 shots in a losing cause. --- ICE 4 BLADES 2 SASKATOON -- Wyatt Hoflin made 31 saves and Kootenay scored four unanswered goals to erase an early 2-0 deficit en route to downing the Blades. Landon Cross, Luke Philp, Tim Bozon and Landon Peel scored for the Ice (37-23-4) and Sam Reinhart chipped in with an assist to extend his point streak to 22 games. Cameron Hebig and Graham Miller scored for Saskatoon (16-43-5), which dropped its fourth straight contest. Troy Trombley stopped 39-of-42 shots in a losing cause. --- HITMEN 5 BLAZERS 1 CALGARY -- Brady Brassart had two goals and an assist as the Hitmen beat Kammloops for their 10th win in their last 11 outings. Eric Berry. . Adam Tambellini and Alex Roach each had a goal and an assist for Calgary (41-15-7) and Pavel Padakin added a single goal. Matt Bellerive replied for the Blazers (13-46-5), who are 2-8-0 in their last 10 games. Mack Shields made 25 saves for the Hitmen as Bolton Pouliot stopped 37-of-42 shots in defeat. --- TIGERS 3 REBELS 2 (SO) RED DEER, Alta. -- Miles Koules scored once in regulation and again in the shootout as Medicine Hat slipped past the Rebels. Curtis Valk also scored for the Tigers (40-22-3), who improved to 8-2-0 in their last 10 games. Wyatt Johnson and Scott Feser each had a goal and an assist for Red Deer (30-30-5). Medicine Hats Marek Langhamer made 25 saves for the win. Patrik Bartosak kicked out 38-of-40 shots for the Rebels. --- ROYALS 5 COUGARS 3 PRINCE GEORGE, B.C. -- Brandon Magee had a goal and an assist as Victoria toppled the Cougars. Travis Brown, Logan Fisher, Austin Carroll and Brett Cote also scored for the Royals (44-17-4), who have won nine of their past 10 outings. Todd Fiddler had a pair of goals for Prince George (26-33-8) and Zach Pochiro had a goal and an assist. Victorias Patrik Polivka made 24 saves while Adam Beukeboom turned away 33-of-37 shots for the Cougars. --- ROCKETS 6 GIANTS 0 KELOWNA, B.C. -- Jordon Cooke made 31 saves and Nick Merkley scored twice as the Rockets blanked Vancouver. Madison Bowey, Mitchell Wheaton, Tyrell Goulbourne and Myles Bell also scored for Kelowna (51-9-4) while Damon Severson tacked on three assists. Giants (30-25-10) forward Jackson Houck had his four-game point streak halted. Payton Lee stopped 29-of-35 shots for Vancouver. --- SILVERTIPS 3 AMERICANS 2 EVERETT, Wash. -- Manraj Hayers goal 1:19 into the third period stood up as the winner as the Silvertips slipped past Tri-City. Carson Stadnyk and Jujhar Khaira also scored for Everett (32-23-9), which is 4-0-1 in its last five games. Lucas Nickles and Parker Bowles scored for the Americans (27-30-8) and Brian Williams assisted on both. Austin Lotz made 25 saves for the Silvertips. Eric Comrie turned away 32-of-35 shots for Tri-City, which dropped its eighth game in a row. ' ' '

TORONTO - Centre Greg McKegg scored twice and goalie Christopher Gibson made 31 saves to lead the Toronto Marlies over the visiting Hamilton Bulldogs 4-1 in American Hockey League action on Sunday. Jared Abbrederis Packers Jersey . Sam Carrick and Jerry DAmigo, with an empty-netter, also scored as part of a three-goal third period that broke the game open for Toronto. Josh Leivo, Spencer Aboott and Jerrod Smithson collected two assists apiece in front of an announced crowd of 6,399 at Ricoh Coliseum. The Marlies won their second consecutive game to improve to 36-19-5 and bolster their first-place standing in the North Division. Justin Courtnall had the lone goal for the Bulldogs, who lost for the fifth time in six games to drop to 26-30-5. Bulldogs netminder Robert Mayer made 21 saves in a losing effort. The game was tied 1-1 after the first period and stayed that way through 40 minutes. A turnover by the Marlies in the defensive zone led to the games opening goal. Bulldogs centre Joonas Nattinen corralled the loose puck in the corner and passed off to Courtnall, who curled into the slot and beat a screened Gibson with a backhander at 11:36. The Marlies tied the game less than two minutes later when Leivo threaded a pass through the crease to McKegg, who lifted the puck into the gaping net for a power-play goal at 13:14. After a scoreless second period, Carrick gave the Marlies a 2-1 edge when he beat Mayer low to the stick side with a wrist shot from the slot at 6:08 of the third period. McKegg put Toronto up by a pair when he buried a rebound from the slot at 11:17. DAmigo closed out the scoring with an empty-netter at 18:30 Hamilton was 0-for-2 on the power play while Toronto went 1-for-2 with the man advantage. The Marlies and Bulldogs are off until Wednesday, when Toronto visits the Lake Erie Monsters and Hamilton hosts the Abbotsford Heat. Packers #89 Jersey .�"Were not happy with our standing and how weve been playing," said Rock GM Terry Sanderson.� "Its a move we felt we had to make and we were able to get a good young goaltender in Nick Rose coming in. Tramon Williams Packers Jersey . -- The Portland Trail Blazers have fired coach Nate McMillan. TERESOPOLIS, Brazil -- Brazil striker Hulk left a training session due to a muscle injury in his left leg Sunday but said he expects to be fit to play Mexico on Tuesday in his teams second World Cup match. Hulk practiced for less than 15 minutes before leaving the field. He said the injury wasnt serious and "hopefully" it wouldnt keep him from playing in the next match. "I felt a small discomfort and decided to leave as a precaution," Hulk said. "I was already thinking about the next match, its only two days away and in the World Cup you dont want to miss any match. I hope to be ready so I can help the national team again." Hulk said he had the injury before the opening win over Croatia, when he was replaced late in the match, and felt it again after a few shots on goal on Sunday. He walked off the field without a limp, but then sat down on a bench and lowered his head in apparent dismay. Hulk, who plays for Zenit in the Russian league, put his hand on his left leg when team medical staff arrived to treat him. A few moments later he went to the locker room accompanied by one of the teams doctors. "I was feeling down when it happened because yoou always think about the worst," Hulk said. Randall Cobb Packers Jersey. "But then I talked to the doctors and they told me that it wasnt anything too serious. Im going to undergo treatment and hopefully Ill be able to play." The Brazilian federation said Hulk wouldnt need additional tests and would travel as planned with the rest of the squad to the northeastern city of Fortaleza later Sunday. "At a World Cup you have to overcome every challenge," Hulk said. "We prepare our entire lives to fulfil our dreams of playing in the tournament. Im feeling well." If Hulk is ruled out, 21-year-old Shakhtar Donetsk striker Bernard would be his likely replacement. Chelseas Ramires is also an option. Brazil had been injury free since it started its World Cup preparations in late May, but Sunday was a tense practice session in Teresopolis, outside Rio de Janeiro. Bernard stayed on the ground for a few moments after a foul by David Luiz, and the defender was later hurt in a challenge by midfielder Luiz Gustavo. Both players were down briefly but recovered. Coach Luiz Felipe Scolari ended the training session after the hard contact between Luiz and Gustavo. ' ' '

TORONTO -- UFC light-heavyweight champion Jon (Bones) Jones is backing Georges St-Pierres decision to give up his title and walk away from the sport. Marcus Allen . "Im proud of him," Jones said in an interview from Sacramento, site of the UFCs weekend televised card. "I think hes listening to his body and hes doing what makes him happy and thats what life is about ultimately. "Hes done a great job and hes been a great example. And hes continuing to be a great example even with the decision that hes made. And Im happy for him." Calling his life a "freaking zoo," St-Pierre announced Friday that he was leaving the sport for an undetermined period of time to look after undisclosed personal issues. The 32-year-old from Montreal leaves the sport ranked No. 2 behind Jones on the UFCs pound-for-pound top fighter list. Jones, 26, is no stranger to life in the spotlight himself. He became the UFCs youngest ever champion at 23 when dethroned Mauricio (Shogun) Rua at UFC 128 in March 2011. Away from the cage, he lost his drivers license after crashing his Bentley into a pole in Binghamton, N.Y., in May 2012. But he said he had no problems with being in the limelight. "Its great, man. Its great," said Jones, who recently got his license back. "Its a lot of work. Theres a lot of perks and Im grateful for it, man. My storys just getting started." Jones said he doubted St-Pierre (25-2) would return. "I dont think he has much more to prove. I think if you go too long on vacation, it just may feel good to have a little gut. He just might stay on vacation." Light-heavyweight contender Alexander (The Mauler) Gustafsson called GSPs decision to walk away "a little bit sad." "Because hes the champion and hes a legend in the sport," Gustafsson said in a interview from his native Sweden. "But at the same time, I support him. If he thinks thats the right decision, I understand. "Only he knows whats best for him." On Friday, Gustafsson defeated St-Pierre in a fan vote to see who joins Jones on the cover of the upcoming "EA Sports UFC" video game. Fourteen other fighters were eliminated earlier in the vote. "I never thought I would make to the cover," said Gustafsson, citing the champions and big names up for the honour. Jones (19-1) defeated Gustafsson (15-2) in a close fight at UFC 165 in Toronto in September. The two are expected to fight again in the near future, providing they both win their scheduled bouts in March-April. No. 1 contender Gustafsson is slated to take on Jimi (Poster Boy) Manuwa on a televised card in March while Jones faces No. 2 Glover Teixeira of Brazil at UFC 172. Vance Walker . Louis Blues teammates who would also be participating in the Olympics, Alex�Pietrangelo felt right at home, no different in some ways to the travel experience of any old road trip � save for the length of the journey, that is. Eric Fisher . Kane got tangled up along the boards with Anthony�Peluso, and Peluso appeared to fall on Kanes right leg. Kane was seen holding his leg in pain and he was helped off the ice.PHOENIX -- The good news for the Portland Trail Blazers is they only face Goran�Dragic and the Phoenix Suns one more time. And thats not until spring. Dragic scored 31 points, Channing�Frye added 25 and the Suns used their up-tempo style to recover from a poor start and beat Portland 120-106 Wednesday night and snap the Blazers 11-game winning streak. Markieff�Morris scored 19 and twin Marcus�Morris 15 for the Suns, who wiped out a 16-point second-quarter deficit to hand the Blazers their first loss since Nov. 5 against Houston. Two of Portlands three defeats have come to the Suns, who shot 52 per cent from the field behind the speedy Dragic, who was one point shy of his career-high and added 10 assists. "Im glad we dont have to play Phoenix until April," said Blazers coach Terry Stotts, whose team is 1-2 against the Suns and 12-1 against the rest of the league. "After we got a lead they completely outplayed us. They ran, they rebounded, they played an excellent game. They have played us very well and we will see April 4 if anything changes." LaMarcus�Aldridge had 24 points and Damian�Lillard scored 16 points for the Blazers, who had also won six straight on the road but couldnt keep up with the new-look Suns, who moved a game over .500. "We already played those guys three times and in all those games, we were better or we were close," said Dragic, who hit 4 of 5 3-pointers. "I dont know why. I think theyre a good matchup for us. They want to play slow in the half court and we want to run. And thats to our advantage." Suns coach Jeff Hornacek said before the game that he wanted to push the pace, adding, "Were not good when we hold the ball." But the Suns looked sluggish early and Portland looked poised to match the third-longest win streak in franchise history. Then Dragic took over. Playing without backcourt mate Eric�Bledsoe (bruised shin) for a sixth straight game, Dragic fueled a 40-point second-quarter with a variety of 3-pointers, midrange jumpers and nifty passes for buckets on the fast break. Frye helped by heating up from the outside. Portland turned a 39-23 deficit into a 61-58 halftime lead. "Goran has just been on a tear," Frye said. "When he is feeling it like that you just give it to him and get the hell out of the way." Fryes 3 to start the second half was the beginnning of a 10-0 spurt and he hit another 3 to start the fourth quarter as the Suns built a 97-78 lead. Jerron McMillian. "Every time we look at the tape, if we play half court we have problems," Dragic said. "But when we run we got those easy, open 3s or easy layups. Everybody wants to play like that. Its really fun." It was no fun for the Blazers, who had another miserable visit to the desert. It was Portlands 22nd loss in the past 26 trips to Phoenix, including a loss on opening night. Not even Bledsoes continued absence could keep the surprising Suns from winning for the third time in four games. After limping through the morning shootaround, Bledsoe had an MRI that Hornacek said "didnt show anything besides what they knew already, which is a contusion." Bledsoe has been sidelined since colliding with teammate P.J.�Tucker in practice Nov. 17. The Blazers havent had the same uncertainty, starting the same five players all 16 games. And Portland came out with much more energy early, racing to a commanding lead early in the second quarter behind Aldridges play inside and ex-Sun Robin�Lopezs work on the boards. But the Blazers struggled to contain Dragic. After Lillard struggled to stay in front of him, Nicolas�Batum took a turn on Dragic, who added five rebounds and four turnovers as Phoenix set a season-high in points. "Thats something special in the NBA to win that many games in a row," Aldridge said. "Were definitely proud of it but we have to bounce back and not lose two in a row." NOTES: Hornacek said they plan each game as if Bledsoe wont play so theyll be "surprised" when he does. "I thought hed miss one game or maybe two games. But hes got to be able to push off and if he cant then he doesnt play." ... The Blazers made only 7 of 19 3s after entering the game shooting 42 per cent. But Stotts insisted before the game he believes they can continue to shoot well if his top five shooters take the bulk of the shots. "Its not far-reaching to think that each one of those guys could shoot 40 per cent or better on the season," he said. "So is 42 per cent sustainable? I think it is." . Ex-Suns F Grant�Hill attended the game. ... Blazers G Mo�Williams (three points) returned after serving a one-game suspension for his role in a scuffle Saturday against Golden State. ' ' '

SAN ANTONIO -- The San Antonio Spurs were not going to believe Serge�Ibaka was really injured until the Oklahoma City Thunder took the court in the opener of the Western Conference finals without their athletic big man. Steve Johnson Jersey . Their skepticism was unwarranted. Ibaka is indeed injured and Oklahoma City needs to find a way to replace his defensive presence against San Antonio. Tim�Duncan had 27 points and the Spurs took advantage of Ibakas absence to score more than half their points in the paint, beating the Thunder 122-105 Monday night in the opener of the best-of-seven series. Tony�Parker did not appear limited by a hamstring injury, adding 14 points and 12 assists in 36 minutes in San Antonios first victory over Oklahoma City this season. Parker and coach Gregg Popovich both said earlier they werent sure if the Thunder would actually be without Ibaka, who injured his left calf in Oklahoma Citys series clincher against the Los Angeles Clippers. "Contrary to what San Antonio was thinking, hes not coming back," Thunder coach Scott Brooks said. Thats bad news for Oklahoma City entering Game 2 on Wednesday. San Antonio had 66 points in the paint and shot 58 per cent from the field. It was the highest shooting percentage allowed by the Thunder in the post-season since relocating from Seattle. The Thunder got their usual offensive output from All-Stars Kevin�Durant and Russell�Westbrook, who scored 28 and 25 points, respectively. But Oklahoma Citys remaining starters, Nick�Collison, Thabo�Sefolosha and Kendrick�Perkins, combined to score five points with 13 rebounds and one assist. Collison started in place of Ibaka and was 0 for 3 from the field with three rebounds and one blocked shot. Ibaka was averaging 12.2 points, 7.3 rebounds and 2.23 blocks in 33.9 minutes in the post-season. "We play team defence, we dont just rely on Serge," Durant said. "He does a great job of blocking shots, but its all because of our team defence. Hes a big part of what we do. Hes a starter, had his best season this year, so of course were going to miss his presence, but we have guys that are going to step up and do it collectively." San Antonio planned to attack Oklahoma Citys interior whether Ibaka was playing or not, and found it much easier to do without the athletic 6-foot-10 forward. "We always want to try to penetrate," Parker said. "We always want our ball movement, thats how we play -- kick and pitch and stuff like that. You know, obviously its a little bit better with (Ibaka) not being in the paint, but were still going to try to penetrate and make stuff happen." The Spurs fed Duncan early and the veteran responded by scoring 12 points on 6-of-7 shooting in the opening quarter. Parker, who sustained a Grade 1 left hamstring strain in San Antonios series clincher against Portland, drove the paint and dished to Duncan early before looking for his own shot midway through the quarter. "Thats part of our game plan," Duncan said. "He knew that they werent going to let him shoot the ball like he did in the last series. They were going to try to take that away from him, so he knew he was going to have to be an assist man." Parker scored all but two of his points in the first half. Manu�Ginobili took over in the second half, scoring all 18 of his points with a series of breakneck drives and 3-for-4 shooting on 3-pointers. "Just got to do a better job of closing the paint off," Westbrook said. "I thought we did a better job in the second half of just putting more pressure on them, making it tough for them to get inside the paint." After starting Collison and bringing in 7-foot post Steven�Adams to spell him and Perkins, Oklahoma City continually altered its lineup in an attempt to derail San Antonios attack. At one point the Thunder had Westbrook and fellow point guards Reggie�Jackson and Derek�Fisher on the court with Durant playing the post defensively. Duncan responded by dropping in a running hook on Durant. "Were going to have to find lineups that work," Brooks said. "I have faith in all of our guys to step in and do the job, no matter who we put on the floor." With the exception of a pair of free throws by Fisher, Westbrook and Durant scored all of Oklahoma Citys points in a 23-22 third quarter. The Thunder rallied to take a 76-75 lead on Westbrooks 17-foot jumper with 5 minutes left in the third quarter for their first lead since the opening basket of the game. "I think we need more from everybody defensively," Brooks said. "We scored 105 points. ... We scored enough points to win a basketball game. We have to do a better job defensively." San Antonio improved to 7-1 at home in the playoffs, winning its past five games by an average of 20.6 points. The Spurs, however, remember what happened in the 2012 conference finals, when the Thunder won four straight to rally from an 0-2 deficit. "Theyre a talented team," Ginobili said. "Theyre going to watch video; theyre going to fix mistakes. Its going to be harder for sure. Its just one down." NOTES: Durant was assessed a technical foul 30 seconds into the fourth quarter after throwing his fists down in frustration after being assessed a foul. . Boris�Diaw was poked in his lower right eyelid early in the game, but returned to shortly thereafter once it was determined there was no structural damage. . Play had to be stopped twice to clean up blood on Collison, who was battling Duncan and Splitter defensively. Bills Jersey . The daughter of Wayne Gretzky, who is engaged to PGA star Dustin�Johnson, appears on the cover of the magazine leaning on a golf club in a sports bra and workout tights. Custom Bills Jersey . Her 64-save performance limited the damage as the Canadian women emerged with a 7-0 victory. Obydennova spent the post-game ceremony bent over in exhaustion.In the end, it all came down to a draw to the button. In front of a sold out crowd at The Fenlands Banff Recreation Centre in Banff, Alta, Jeff� Stoughton and his All-Star team emerged victorious at Sundays Travelers All-Star Curling Skins Game Presented by Pintys final. Team Stoughton defeated five-time TSN skins champion Kevin Martin and his All-Star teammates earlier Sunday afternoon following their semifinal win on Saturday over Team Brad Gushue. In total, Stoughton takes away $70,500 in prize winnings at TSNs two-day All-Star event that featured the Top 16 Canadian mens curlers � as voted by fans. Playing with an All-Star team featuring Dave Nedohin (Third), Brent Laing (Second), and Ryan Harnden (Lead), this victory marks the first TSN skins title for the two-time World Champion Stoughton. Stoughtons prize money from this weekend totals $70,500, which includes $38,000 won in Sundays final, plus $17,500 won in Saturdays semifinal, and a $15,000 winners bonus. After this weekend, Stoughtons career TSN skins game winnings now total $108,500. Martin began the final with an early lead by winning the second end, taking $4,000 following a first end carry-over. Stoughton won the third end and $3,000 to bring the game closer. He then pullled ahead following carry-overs in the fourth and fifth ends to take $13,000 in the sixth end. Nigel Bradham Womens Jersey. Both Stoughton and Martin made incredible shots to force a seventh end carry-over, with the eighth end also going undecided - leading to a sudden death finish. Following a dramatic draw to the button, Stoughtons 11.5 cm shot secured the remaining $22,000 in prize money plus a $15,000 winners bonus - bringing his final tally at the two-day event to $70,500.�Stoughton earned his place in Sundays Travelers All-Star Curling Skins Game Presented by Pintys final following his victory over Brad Gushues All-Star squad in Saturday afternoons first semifinal, while Martin advanced following a victory over Sochi 2014 Winter Olympic Games medal hopeful Brad Jacobs rink in last nights second semifinal.�Overall results from the Travelers All-Star Curling Skins Game Presented by Pintys are as follows: - Team Stoughton: $70,500 ($55,500 in skins prize money + $15,000 winners bonus)- Team Martin: $15,500- Team Jacobs: $9,500- Team Gushue: $4,500 ($3,500 in skins prize money + $1,000 draw to the button bonus) Following this weekends event, Martin remains the TSN skins game all-time leader in prize money, having won a record $440,850. ' ' '

The New York Rangers opened the Eastern Conference Final with a 7-2 win in Montreal, embarrassing the Canadiens on home ice to start the series. Miles Burris Raiders Jersey . Rangers D Ryan�McDonagh led the way with a goal and three assists for the Blueshirts and, oh, thats not any kind of sore spot for the Canadiens. Remember, he was a first-round pick of the Canadiens in 2007 who was dealt to the Rangers as part of the deal to get (ahem) Scott�Gomez. McDonagh only had three points, total, through the first two rounds, so the first four-point game of his 298-game (regular season and playoffs) career was a great start for the Rangers. In a 7-2 rout, there were plenty of big contributors for the Rangers. The line of Chris�Kreider, Derek�Stepan and Rick�Nash each had one goal and an assist. Yes, Nash scored his first goal in 15 playoff games this year, and Kreider, the rookie power forward was a tough match-up for the Canadiens. Nash and Kreider can be tough matchups if theyre playing well and, for various reasons, havent been major factors through the first couple rounds. Could be big trouble for Montreal if thats going to change now. Martin�St.�Louis and Derek�Stepan each had a goal and an assist and Dominic�Moore chipped in a couple of assists, while Mats�Zuccarello delivered a goal and two assists. Zuccarello is now the Rangers leading scorer in the playoffs, with 11 points (4 G, 7 A) in 15 games, one ahead of St. Louis and Brad�Richards. Richards scored a goal and registered a game-high 10 shot attempts. The Canadiens were getting outplayed at 5-on-5, but the Rangers also had seven of the games first eight power plays, with Montreal getting a couple of power plays in the last three-and-a-half minutes, long after the outcome was decided. Coming off a series against Boston in which the Canadiens were obviously invested emotionally, they certainly appeared flat in Game One against the Rangers. G Carey�Price, who has been great in the playoffs, was pulled between the second and third periods after allowing four goals on 20 shots. Only twice, in 70 (regular season plus playoff) games this season, did Price allow at least four goals with 16 or fewer saves. Though his production was inconsequential, Canadiens C Lars�Eller had a goal and an assist and hes the top scoring Montreal forward in the playoffs with five goals and 11 points in a dozen games. One negative for the Rangers was that C Derick�Brassard left the game early with an apparent back injury. Hes considered day-to-day. If the Canadiens are to take a positive from this debacle of a game, it is that it only counts as one loss. Forget Game One, come back fresh for Game Two because, really, what other option do they have? Scott Cullen can be reached at Scott.Cullen@bellmedia.ca�and followed on Twitter at http://twitter.com/tsnscottcullen. For more, check out TSN Fantasy on Facebook. Jack Tatum Raiders Jersey .J. -- A good start is what is on the line this time when the New York Giants host the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL season opener. Bo Jackson Womens Jersey . He also a truly special inning, striking out the side on just nine pitches. Richards fanned nine to match his major league best, helping the Los Angeles Angels snap a season-worst four-game skid with a 4-0 win over Houston Astros on Wednesday night.CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Al�Jefferson laughed when told he finished three stitches shy of a triple-double. "I have to call my agent because Im done with my modeling career," Jefferson said. Jefferson had seven stitches in the first half to repair a gash above his right eye, but returned to finish with 19 points and 11 rebounds, helping the Bobcats overcome an 11-point fourth-quarter deficit and defeat Washington 100-94 Monday night. The win prevented the Wizards from clinching their first playoff berth since 2008. Jeffersons put back off an offensive rebound with 3:30 left in the game helped the Bobcats take the lead for good at 93-92. Kemba�Walker had a big second half, finishing with 21 points and 10 assists, and rookie Cody�Zeller scored a career-high 15 points on 4-of-4 shooting and added eight rebounds for Charlotte. Walker scored nine points in the final quarter and the Bobcats erased a 16-point halftime deficit and pulled within two games of the Washington in the race for the sixth seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs Both teams have eight games left and will meet again on April 9. "We made big shots and played well defensively in the second half and really came together as a team," Walker said. "It shows our resiliency. That was a big win for us." Bradley�Beal had 20 points for the Wizards, who missed 11 of their last 14 shots from the field. "It (stinks) man," Washingtons Al�Harrington said of not clinching a playoff spot. "Because obviously we played a great first half. We really thought tonight was our night, but to have them come out and play the way that they played and beat us -- thats tough." Washington still would have clinched a playoff spot if the Utah Jazz had defeated New York later Monday, but the Knicks won 92-83. The Wizards (38-36) came in looking to snap the third-longest playoff drought in the NBA -- and for a while it looked like they would. The Wizards shot 59 per cent in the first half, at one point hitting 10 straight shots from the field and scoring on 14 of 15 possessions to close the first half on a 30-7 run. The Bobcats could do little right in what Jefferson called an "embarrassing" first half. But he was confident they would battle back. Marcus Allen Womens Jersey. . Jefferson walked to the scorers table at the start of the third quarter and told whoever was in earshot, "Hey, watch this comeback." "Everyone looked at me like I was crazy," Jefferson said. "At the end of the game though people were pointing at me saying, You said it. You said it." Charlottes defence was the big difference. Coach Steve Clifford also went to a pick-and-roll with Walker and Jefferson. "The Wizards did a good job of taking away the post," Clifford said. The momentum turned four minutes into the fourth quarter when Walker came up with the loose ball off a Washington turnover and fed Chris�Douglas-Roberts for a fast-break layup in traffic with 7:38 left in the game. Douglas-Roberts had to adjust in midair to get his body from one side of the rim to the other to avoid defenders and get the shot to drop. Douglas-Roberts made a 3-point play and then knocked down a long-distance 3 to cut the lead to one before Jeffersons put back gave the Bobcats the lead for good. Jefferson hit a 16-footer to push the lead to three. Walker followed with a backbreaker when he scored on a driving layup to make it 97-92 after a Bobcats possession that took more than a minute off the clock. Charlotte twice came up with key offensive rebounds, allowing Walker to bring the ball back out and reset the offence and milk time off the clock. "When you give a team two to three looks one time down the floor, theyre going to make one," said Wizards forward Drew�Gooden. "I would say we lost the game giving them second and third possessions offensively." Jefferson left the game briefly at the end of the first quarter to head to the locker room to get the stitches above his right eye after taking an inadvertent elbow from Trevor�Booker. "I had to get a shot to numb it and I hate needles," Jefferson said. NOTES: Gary�Neal returned to action for the Bobcats after missing two games with an ankle injury. He had nine points ... The Bobcats have won four of six against Washington, but have split their two games this season. ... The Bobcats have won 11 of their last 13 at home. ' ' '

CHICAGO -- This time, Niklas�Backstrom made it through warm-ups without any injuries. Branden Albert Dolphins Jersey . It was the start of one nice night for the goalie and the Minnesota Wild. Backstrom made 33 saves in his first win of the season and the Wild defeated the Chicago Blackhawks 5-3 on Saturday in a rematch of their first-round playoff series. "I think I just play every game the same," Backstrom said. "You try to go out there and play your best. Be at your best for your team and your teammates when they need you. I think thats the way Im looking at it." But this one was quite a turnaround from the playoffs, when Backstrom was scratched from Game 1 in Chicago after he hurt his leg reaching for a puck during warm-ups. That was it for Backstrom for the series, and Chicago eliminated Minnesota in five games on the way to its second Stanley Cup title in four seasons. "Its a new season, its a new team," said Backstrom, dismissing any talk about the post-season meeting. "So theres no reason to sit around, we try to learn this year." Jason�Pominville had two goals in his 600th career game as Minnesota earned its third consecutive win. Zach�Parise, Kyle�Brodziak and Justin�Fontaine also scored for the Wild, and Ryan�Suter and Mikael�Granlund had two assists apiece. Bryan�Bickell scored for the fourth consecutive game for the Blackhawks, who had recorded at least one point in each of their past seven games. Patrick�Kane added his team-best sixth goal in the third period. "Its nice scoring, but most importantly, its nice to score when youre winning," Bickell said. "Tonight was a rough game for the team, defensively and offensively." Chicago committed five of the 12 penalties in the game and went 1 for 7 on the power play. It has allowed 11 goals in the past two games. "Its two games in a row we gave up five goals and more," captain Jonathan�Toews said. "Its one thing that people are talking about us not scoring as much, but sometimes you dont need to score than many to win if youre playing smart defensively." Backstrom was terrific in his first start since he strained his right knee during a 3-2 loss at Nashville on Oct. 8. He came off the bench when Josh�Harding suffered a lower-body injury Thursday night and stopped all seven shots that he faced during the third period of a 3-1 home win against Carolina. The 35-year-old Backstrom was particularly hard on Patrick�Sharp, turning him away on one strong rush in the first, and making another nice stop on the forward during a Blackhawks power play in the second. He also made a couple of saves on Marian�Hossa. "He made some big saves, especially in the second when they started making a pretty good push," Brodziak said. "He did an unbelievable job and that gave us a good opportunity to be able to extend the lead." Parise had a power-play rebound goal in the first and Brodziak made it 2-0 when he tipped Marco�Scandellas long shot past Corey�Crawford just 63 seconds into the second period. The Blackhawks looked as if they had their first score when Jeremy�Morins shot went off Backstroms left shoulder, popped into the air and trickled over the line following a scrum in front of the net. But the goal was waived off when a long replay review showed Andrew�Shaw made contact with the puck with his stick while it was over the crossbar. Bickells wrist shot through Backstroms legs cut it to 2-1 at 13:46, but Granlund set up Pominville with 2:18 to go in the period. Granlund then turned Nick�Leddys turnover into another Pominville goal at 9:18 of the third, giving Minnesota a 4-1 lead. "There have been chances and they havent gone in and you know its just a matter for time before theyre going to go in," Wild coach Mike Yeo said, praising the Granlund-Pominville connection. "When youve got a guy who can shoot the puck like that and a guy who can distribute it like that, you sure like to think its going to eventually pay off, and tonight was a great example of that." Marcus�Kruger scored his first goal of the season with 30 seconds left, but that was it for the Blackhawks in their second straight loss. Crawford finished with 20 saves. NOTES: The Blackhawks and Wild play again in Minnesota on Monday night. ... Sharp finished with seven shots on goal. ... Blackhawks C Michal�Handzus sat out with an upper-body injury. The 36-year-old forward has a goal and two assists in nine games this season. ... Handzus, F Ben�Smith and D Sheldon�Brookbank were scratched for Chicago. ... In addition to Harding, Ds Keith�Ballard and Jonas�Brodin were scratched for the Wild. Brandon Fields Womens Jersey . Seymour is a repeat offender, who had to pay $25,000 last season after punching Pittsburgh quarterback Ben�Roethlisberger. New Englands Jerod�Mayo and Detroits Brandon�Pettigrew were each fined $25,000. JaWuan James Jersey . Goals from Edin Dzeko and Alvaro Negredo secured Citys 10th consecutive win over the Magpies as Manuel Pellegrinis high-scoring team extended its unbeaten run in all competitions to 15 games. But the result did not reflect the intensity of a game overshadowed by referee Mike Jones decision to disallow Cheikh Tiotes apparent equalizer, ruling that Yoan Gouffran interfered with play in an offside position.LONDON -- Englands Football Association says coach Roy Hodgson will name his World Cup squad on May 12, the day after the Premier League season ends. The squad is expected to be divided into 23 players with seven back-ups, although FIFA regulations require only a 30-man provisional squad to be named by May 13. Bob Griese Jersey. . The deadline for the final 23-man squad is June 2. Englands first World Cup warm-up match is against Peru on May 30, before further games against Ecuador and Honduras. England will face Italy, Uruguay and Costa Rica in the group stage. ' ' '

NEW YORK -- Henrik�Lundqvist knows all about 30-win seasons. Buccaneers #40 Jersey . He already held the NHL record by hitting the mark in each of his first six seasons. With yet another shutout, King Henrik is now a perfect 7 for 7. Lundqvist had a relatively quiet night, but he had the slimmest of margins to work with. Carl�Hagelin scored late in the first period, and Lundqvist stopped all 13 shots the New Jersey Devils fired at him in the New York Rangers 2-0 victory on Monday. Lundqvist (30-12-4), who entered with the leagues lowest goals-against average in February, dropped it even further as he posted his NHL-best eighth shutout of the season and the 43rd of his career. He made a lunging glove snare with 2:26 left to rob Ilya�Kovalchuk and secure the milestone victory. "It means that things have been going well, but it also means that I played for a club thats given me an opportunity to play a lot," Lundqvist said. "I have a pretty good team in front of me, as well. Im happy I reached it again. "You always want to improve each year. So far this year its been a good ride." And then some. So often in recent seasons the Rangers have been in a struggle just to get into the playoffs. Now they are the ones being chased for a change. The Eastern Conference-leaders stretched their advantage to nine points over Boston and Pittsburgh with a quarter of the season remaining. On the flip side, the Devils have hit a sudden rut. After being the hottest team following the All-Star break, New Jersey dropped its third in a row -- following a four-game winning streak -- and had its run of seven straight road victories snapped. "We have to keep going the same way," said tough-luck loser Martin�Brodeur, who made 13 saves. "Were doing a lot of good things. Its just not going our way right now. When we were winning, we played games we didnt deserve to win. We just have to work hard." Hagelin gave the Rangers a 1-0 edge with 3:01 left in the first period. Ryan�Callahan added an empty-netter with 1:06 left, his career-best 25th goal -- with an assist from Hagelin -- to make it 2-0. It was the fewest shots allowed by the Rangers this season. Brodeur wasnt tested much, either, in a game played with an edge on both sides. The Devils lost on the road for the first time since Jan. 10 at Calgary. New Jersey had won two of the three previous meetings with the Rangers this season, including a 1-0 victory in New York on Feb. 7. Agitating Devils forward David�Clarkson spent most of the night in the penalty box, serving 19 minutes -- including a misconduct and a fighting major with Rangers forward Brandon�Dubinsky. Clarkson said he didnt know why he was given the misconduct. "No idea," said Clarkson, who logged 11 minutes, 14 seconds of ice time. "Dubinsky went after (Kovalchuk), and I went out and said something." Clarkson dropped the gloves with Dubinsky in the second period, after he left his feet to hit Dubinsky against the boards. "I knew it was coming," Dubinsky said. "It was just a matter of time before somebody was going to fight him. He seems to always turn away the tougher guys -- not taking anything away from myself -- and go after other guys. Its just the way he is." Despite being held to only four shots in the first period and none until more than seven minutes had elapsed, the Rangers grabbed the lead on rookie Hagelins 11th goal. After the Devils failed to get the puck out of their zone, New York defenceman Dan�Girardi sent it behind the net. Callahan shovelled a quick, short pass in front to Hagelin, who slammed a shot in at the left post. That was enough to hand the Devils losses on back-to-back days and give the Rangers a 2-0-1 mark after three games in four days. "It was a great job by us," Hagelin said. "Maybe they were a bit tired, who knows? But at the same time they were playing well. They were grinding us down low, but we found a way." The Devils, who also had four shots in the first period, had the only power play in the first. Brodeur was also caught wandering out of his net a few times, but managed to get back into position before the Rangers could catch him. Lundqvist made the best stop when he blocked Clarksons backhanded try at the doorstep with just under eight minutes left, during New Jerseys power play. NOTES: The Rangers acquired D John�Scott from the Chicago Blackhawks for a fifth-round pick in this years draft. He wasnt in the New York lineup. New Jersey didnt make any trades Monday before the deadline. ... The Devils began a stretch of seven of nine games against Atlantic Division rivals. They will face the Rangers once more in that span, take on the New York Islanders three times, and the Philadelphia Flyers twice. ... Clarkson entered with 97 penalty minutes this season. ... Hagelin, who had a goal in the Rangers home win over Buffalo on Saturday, has scored in consecutive games for the first time. ... The Devils allowed only 16 shots in each of their previous two games. Brandon Myers Buccaneers Jersey . Detroit trailed by one before Kinsler sent an 81 mph slider from Jerome�Williams (1-4) to left-centre for a 4-2 lead. Kinsler also had a double in his seventh straight multihit game and 33rd this season. Clinton McDonald Buccaneers Jersey . Bradley thwarted Marquezs attempt to win his fifth world title by coming on in the second half of the fight to win. It was the third straight close decision win for Bradley, who was a hotly disputed winner over Manny Pacquiao two fights ago.SAINT JOHN, N.B. -- Rookie Aaron Kerr scored his first Quebec Major Junior Hockey League goal, and the Acadie-Bathurst Titan earned a 1-0 victory Tuesday over the Saint John Sea Dogs. The win moved the Titan (7-11-2) two points ahead of the last-place Sea Dogs (6-12-2) in the QMJHLs Maritime Division. Kerrs goal with assists from Allexandros Soumakis and Jacob Brennan, came at 15:01 of the first period with Alexander McQuaid off for hooking. Buccaneers #93 Jersey. . Brendan Jacob stopped 29 shots for his first shutout of the season. Sebastien Auger made 34 saves for Saint John. Acadie-Bathurst was 1 for 6 on the power play, and the Sea Dogs were 0 for 7. ' ' '

So the Indianapolis Colts have now created victories over the San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks and the Denver Broncos. Evan Dietrich-Smith Buccaneers Jersey. Given the inability of Jacksonville, the inconsistency of Tennessee and the injuries of Houston, the AFC South is under control by the Colts going into almost the mid-point of the 2013 season. I thought Sunday nights game would have been a robotic win by Denver. You know, one of those games that remains close for a while and then Peyton�Manning figures it out to win by 10. What I didnt anticipate was how well the defensive backs would play for the Colts and how exceptional the coverage would be by Vontae�Davis, LaRon�Landry, Darius�Butler and Antoine�Bethea. If there was a group that rose to the challenge of covering three excellent receivers it was the Colts defensive backs. It was also noticeable that as the game progressed both Ryan�Clady and Orlando�Franklin as pass protecting offensive tackles are as important as any players on the Broncos. It was just a matter of time before Robert�Mathis had his way. What is the difference between Manning and Andrew�Luck? The way I see it, not much. Mannings experience is greater but Luck will run effectively at any point of a game and the three runs he had made an impact that the Broncos could not defend. Week 7 will go down as the injury week of 2013 and I hope it is not repeated. First, Brian�Cushing with the Texans, broken leg and knee damage on a perfectly legal block by Jamaal�Charles in Kansas City. Some may ask why Charles didnt stay up high, why did he cut him on the line of scrimmage? If he had stayed high Cushing would have picked up Charles and thrown him on top of quarterback Case�Keenum. It was a complete physical mismatch and Charles had no choice. In Chicago both Jay�Cutler and Lance�Briggs are gone with groin and shoulder injuries for weeks but not the season. I thought Marc Trestman did an exceptional job of explaining the loss against Washington, the details of the injuries and turning it into an optimistic opportunity for the Bears. Trestman is impressive. It has nothing to do with his CFL background but everything to do with his ability to articulate and communicate. In watching his Monday press conference he conducts himself as a pro in many clear ways. An NFL coach does not have to represent himself with professional class the way Trestman did with the Chicago media. There is nothing in their contract that says they must. Many if not all detest the Monday morning or afternoon "state of the team" address but do it anyway. Many if not all look at the media as a necessary evil, not a tool to be used. After watching the post-Chicago press conference I know exactly what is going on with the Bears heading into the bye week because the head coach told me directly. Not to be forgotten, Doug�Martin is out for maybe the season in Tampa Bay, Sam�Bradford is out for the year in St Louis, Reggie�Wayne is done for 2013 with the Colts, Jermichael�Finley could be done in Green Bay, Nick�Foles, concussion with the Eagles in the Dallas game. Have I missed any? Week 7 in NFL football was brutal. How about the Buffalo Bills? After an overtime loss to Cincinnati they win in Miami and win convincingly. I dont know if Thad�Lewis is a 16-game starter but he has fulfilled his role as a quarterback now for two weeks in a row. Mario�Williams is becoming the Mario�Williams of his Houston Texan days and yes, he is earning his big paydays. Pressure to perform is one thing, pressure to perform when everyone knows how much money you make is another type of pressure. But the Bills duo of Fred�Jackson and CJ Spiller are making the team competitive in the AFC North. Jackson, 386 yards, Spiller 362 yards. You add them up and you have a running game after seven weeks that had 748 yards and as a team the Bills average 141 rushing yards a game. That is the good news. Bad news? They play in New Orleans against a Saints team that is coming off the bye. In Kansas City the Chiefs are 7-0 and dont have their bye week until the second week in November. The schedule has been good to them and Alex�Smith continues to be nothing more than himself. Conservative, smart and confident. Andy Reid has found the perfect quarterback for Andy Reid. I was mildly shocked when I heard that as a starter Smith is 26-5-1. That is as good as anyone in the quarterback business. The Chiefs have exceptional individual talent that now is being coordinated. Two good running backs, two good pass rushing defensive ends and two good cornerbacks. The secret to their success? On third down the Chiefs run exceptionally well-executed blitz packages. Well designed and well run because they have the aggressive athletes to run them. In Cincinnati the Bengals are winning the close games. Two weeks ago, they prevailed 27-24 over Buffalo in overtime and Andy�Dalton threw for 300 yards plus. Last week, in Detroit, another 27-24 win on a last play field goal as Dalton thew for 300 plus once again. When this season is over the Bengals could finish first in the AFC North and the last two close wins are why. They did lose cornerback Leon�Hall for the season (achilles) so someone else has to step up at one of footballs toughest positions. And finally, the New York Giants are now 1-6 and on their way! Just kidding. This will be a tough season for the Giants as the Jets are now "the" football team in New York. Opening drive on Monday Night Football. Giants run 16 plays, go approximately 80 yards, take an amazing nine-and-a-half minutes off the clock and...kick a field goal. Kind of sums up the season so far in New York with the Giants. Looking ahead, here are the best two games of Week 8. Dallas at Detroit as the Cowboys control the NFC East, and the Jets at the Bengals. One was expected to be on top of their division - the Bengals - while the other continues to improve, Jets. Keith Tandy Buccaneers Jersey . Paul�Goldschmidt hit his NL-best 36th homer for the Diamondbacks, extending his hitting streak to 14 games and increasing his league-leading RBI total to 124. Buccaneers #62 Jersey . - It was a moment that had Los Angeles Kings fans holding their collective breath.The Edmonton Oilers have liked what theyve seen from goalie Ben�Scrivens�and signed him to a two-year deal on Monday. According to TSN�Hockey Insider Pierre�LeBrun�the deal is worth $2.3 million per season. Scrivens was acquired from the Los Angeles Kings earlier this season for a third-round draft pick. In seven games with the Oilers the 27-year-old has a .940 ssave percentage, 2. Buccaneers #77 Jersey. 15 goals against average and one shutout. "Its a great opportunity," Scrivens said. "Now the real work begins... Its great to be here in Edmonton playing at home." In 58 career NHL appearances, Scrivens, who�began his career�with the Toronto Maple Leafs, has a .921 save percentage and 2.49 goals against average. ' ' '

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. Steve Atwater . -- The Jacksonville Jaguars have agreed to terms with 23 undrafted rookies, including quarterbacks Jordan Rodgers (Vanderbilt) and Matt�Scott (Arizona). Rodgers is the younger brother of Green Bay Packers star Aaron�Rodgers. The Jaguars also agreed to terms with defensive tackle T.J. Barnes (Georgia Tech), linebacker Maalik Bomar (Cincinnati), cornerback Marcus Burley (Delaware), offensive tackle R.J. Dill (Rutgers), linebacker Jeremiah Green (Nevada), defensive end Paul Hazel (Western Michigan), defensive tackle Arby Jones (Georgia), receiver Cole McKenzie (Southern Oregon), receiver Jamal Miles (Arizona State), guard Stephane Milhim (Massachusetts), offensive tackle Jeff Nady (Nevada) and tight end Ryan�Otten (San Jose State). The list also includes receiver Tobais Palmer (North Carolina State), fullback Lonnie�Pryor (Florida State), tight end Kyler Reed (Nebraska), linebacker LaRoy Reynolds (Virginia), safety Steven Terrell (Texas A&M), long-snapper Carson Tinker (Alabama), offensive tackle Roderick Tomlin (Murray State), cornerback Trey Wilson (Vanderbilt) and linebacker Michael Zimmer (Illinois State). Eric Decker . PAUL, Minn. Emmanuel Sanders . LOUIS - A company tied to St.Hockey Canada has announced its 25-player mens roster for the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia. The complete Canadian roster is as follows: Goaltenders: Roberto�Luongo, Carey�Price, Mike�Smith Defence: Jay�Bouwmeester, Drew�Doughty, Dan�Hamhuis, Duncan�Keith, Alex�Pietrangelo, P.K.�Subban, Marc-Edouard�Vlasic, Shea�Weber Forwards: Jamie�Benn, Patrice�Bergeron, Jeff�Carter, Sidney�Crosby, Matt�Duchene, Ryan�Getzlaf, Chris�Kunitz, Patrick�Marleau, Rick�Nash, Corey�Perry, Patrick�Sharp, Steven�Stamkos, John�Tavares, Jonathan�Toews Eleven�players are returning to the squad from the team that won gold at the Vancouver 2010 Games. Yzerman confirmed that the decisions were finalized on Monday night. Canadas first game in Sochi is Feb. 13 against Norway. Canada will also play Group B games against Austria on Feb. 14 and Finland on Feb. 16. Notable omissions from the squad at forward include Claude�Giroux, Milan�Lucic, James�Neal, Joe�Thornton, Eric�Staal, Martin�St.�Louis, and Logan�Couture. Left off the team on defence were Dan�Boyle, Brent�Seabrook, Marc�Staal, and Mark�Giordano. Duchene was amonng the first to tweet his excitement about being named to the squad. Aqib Talib. "So honoured to have the chance to represent Canada, @HockeyCanada and my hometown of Haliburton in the 2014 Sochi Olympics," tweeted Duchene. "Such a great honor to represent my country. Dream come true for any Canadian kid growing up," tweeted Pietrangelo. Yzerman, who is also general manager of the Tampa Bay Lightning, explained to TSNs James Duthie what it was like to call his player, Martin�St.�Louis, and tell him he did not make the team. "Its not easy, not a call I was looking forward to doing. (His reaction) was no different than any other of the 14 players," said Yzerman. Yzerman also discussed some of the other players who did not make the team, such as Giroux and Couture. "Claude�Giroux is a great player, and in the event of injury, these guys will all be under consideration. I cannot criticize any player that we did not put on this team," said Yzerman. Yzerman added that several players are still under consideration should Canada need an injury replacement. "In the end weve put together the best group of players we possibly can. Now we have to become the best team we possibly can," head coach Mike Babcock said. ' ' '

The Montreal Canadiens look to cool down the�red-hot Boston Bruins�in Wednesdays Atlantic Division clash at the Bell Centre. Randall Cobb Packers Jersey . Listen to the game live on TSN 690 at 7:30pm et. The first-place Bruins set their season-high for consecutive wins on Sunday, beating the Florida Panthers 5-2 on the road for their fifth straight victory. Boston hasnt claimed six straight contests since Feb. 17-March 2 of last season. The Canadiens are one point behind Toronto for third place in the Atlantic, with the top three teams in each division earning an automatic bid to the postseason. The Bruins recent hot streak has helped push the clubs lead atop the�division to 11 points over the�Maple Leafs. Although the Bruins enter Wednesdays clash on a hot streak and Montreal has lost two straight and three of its last four games, the Canadiens have had the upper hand in recent meetings with Boston. The Habs are 2-0 against the Bruins so far in 2013-14 and have won have five straight overall in the series. The Canadiens are also 7-2-1 over the last 10 regular-season meetings against Boston at the Bell Centre. Boston picked up its most recent victory against the Panthers over the weekend. The clubs were tied at 1-1 after 40 minutes before the Bruins used a dominant third period to record the 5-2 decision. Carl�Soderberg and Patrice�Bergeron each posted a goal and an assist in the win. Chris�Kelly, Torey�Krug and Jarome�Iginla also scored for the Bruins, while Chad�Johnson gave up two goals on 22 shots in the win. The victory briefly pushed the Bruins ahead of Pittsburgh for the top spot in the Eastern Conference, but the Penguins have won twice since then and are currently three points in front of Boston. "We talked about it before the game that Pittsburgh wasnt playing tonight and we were only one point behind them, so it was a big game for us and I think we played a solid road game to come out with the two points," said Bergeron. The win came in the middle test of a three-game road trip that is set to end tonight in Montreal. The Bruins have won three straight on the road and are 17-10-3 away from Beantown this season. Montreal is glad to be home on Wednesday after going 1-3-0 on a recent tour of Pacific Division cities. The rough trek dropped the Habs to 17-14-2 as the visiting team this season. The Canadiens are 18-10-5 as the host in 2013-14 and are playing two straight and four of their next five games at the Bell Centre. The Habs were outscored by a combined margin of 9-2 in dropping the last two games of their trip, losing 5-2 in Phoenix on Thursday before getting dealt a 4-0 setback Saturday at San Jose. While Sharks netminder Antti�Niemi pitched a shutout on Saturday, Habs goaltender Peter�Budaj gave up two goals on 11 shots before being pulled early in the second period for the Canadiens. Dustin�Tokarski gave up the other two goals on 22 shots in relief. "We played terrible," said Canadiens Max�Pacioretty. "We didnt play our game plan, we just played awful." With No. 1 goaltender Carey�Price dealing with a lower-body issue, Budaj could get the start again on Wednesday. Price anchored Team Canada to a gold medal at the Sochi Olympics, but also returned from Russia with an injury that has kept him sidelined for the first seven games after the break. Price faced shots at practice on Tuesday and could be nearing a return to game action, but he isnt expected to suit up for tonights tilt. The Canadiens, however, could get forward Brandon�Prust back on Wednesday for the first time since the Olympic break. Prust, who has five goals and six assists over 48 games this season, last played on Feb. 8 when he suffered an upper-body injury. A.J. Hawk Packers Jersey .Y. -- Carmelo�Anthony is unlikely to play Sunday against Dallas but J. Bart Starr Packers Jersey . Tune in to catch the action on TSN at 10:30pm et/7:30pm pt. The circus comes to the United Center in Chicago and forces the Bulls to hit the road. It will be six games away from home for a Bulls team that has won five straight, but is also just 1-3 as a visitor this season.CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Mallory Blackwelder won the Symetra Classic on Saturday for her first Symetra Tour title, closing with a 5-under 67 for a two-stroke victory. The 26-year-old former Kentucky player had a 10-under 206 total at Raintree Country Club. "It feels amazing," said Blackwelder, the daughter of former Kentucky coach and LPGA Tour player and Myra Blackwelder and tour caddie Worth Blackwelder. "I have been thinking about this moment for a long, long time and its really surreal. "I didnt look at the leaderboard on the back nine, so I wasnt really sure what kind of position I was in. I knew obviously that I was playing great, so walking up to the 18th I saw that I had a three-shot lead and I was on the green, so I knew that I was on cruise control and that just felt amazing." She earned $15,000 to jump from 24th to sixth on the money with $24,721. The final top 10 will earn 2015 LPGA Tour cards. "I just played really solid all week," said Blackweldeer, who opened with rounds of 69 and 70. Packers #4 Jersey. "Last week, my mom, whos pretty much my swing coach and teacher, came on Sunday to Asheville and we worked on my short game a lot. "I had a lot of easy up-and-downs last week, but I wasnt converting, so we just made a few tweaks. I changed my putting setup a little bit. "My posture had just gotten a little slumped, so I just stood taller to it this week. I putted great and I hit the ball great." Her mother watched her win Sunday, "It just couldnt be better," Blackwelder said. "She hasnt gotten to watch me play a whole lot the last couple of years, so its just amazing that she could be here." Emily Talley was second after a 68. Min Seo Kwak was third at 7 under after a 69, and Kendall Dye was another stroke back after a 72. Cindy Feng, Demi Runas, Krista Puisite and Olivia Jordan-Higgins tied for fifth at 5 under. Feng and Runas shot 70, Puisite had a 73, and Jordan-Higgins a 74. ' ' '

BUFFALO, N. Packers #89 Jersey .Y. -- Sabres owners Terry and Kim Pegula have a strong desire to see the Bills stay in Buffalo, and arent ruling out making a bid to buy the NFL franchise. In saying theyre following the Bills sale process, the Pegulas declined to go into further detail of their intentions, in a prepared statement released by Sabres vice-president Michael Gilbert on Friday. "Like everyone else in this community, they have a strong desire to have the Buffalo Bills remain a centerpiece of this region," Gilbert said. "Accordingly, they have been following the developments involving the sale of the Bills." Out of respect for the sale process, Gilbert said the owners will not be issuing any further comments. The statement was released in response to numerous reports of the Pegulas having serious interest in purchasing the Bills, who are on the market after the teams owner and founder Ralph Wilson died in March. The latest development came on Thursday, when a person familiar with the sale process told The Associated Press the Pegulas were among prospective buyers who received a non-disclosure agreement and background on the Bills from a law firm representing Wilsons estate. The person spoke on the condition of anonymity because the sale process has not been made public. Filling out the non-disclosure agreement would be the next step in providing interested groups full access to the Bills financial data in order to begin formulating bids. The Bills were last valued by Forbes to be worth $870 million. But their sale price could go much higher because NFL teams rarely go on the market. The Pegulas made their fortune in the natural gas industry, after Terry Pegula sold off many of his companys assets for $4.7 billion to Royal Dutch Shell in 2010. His net worth was last estimated by Forbes to be $3.3 billion, but that figure could rise after his company reached a deal to sell off 75,000 acres of land in Ohio and West Virginia to Oklahoma-based American Energy Partners last week. Pegula has spent the past four years going on a major spending spree focusing on two of his passions: hockey and Penn State, his alma mater. In 2010, he donated more than $100 million to Penn State to build a hockey arena and establish a Division I program. In February 2011, he purchased the Sabres, the team he became a fan of in the 1970s. The Pegulas have since shown a commitment to helping spur Buffalos economy by building a $172 million hockey/entertainment complex called HarborCenter across from the Sabres downtown arena. The Bills long-term future in western New York remains a question mark. Though their lease essentially ties them to playing at their current home through the 2019 season, there are concerns the Bills could eventually relocate under a new owner. Toronto and Los Angeles are considered potential landing spots. People familiar with the sale have previously said an ownership candidate could be identified by the end of July, and the sale approved by NFL owners as early as the leagues meetings in October. B.J. Raji Packers Jersey . -- Jay Heaps is the new coach of the New England Revolution, the MLS team he played nine seasons for as a defender. Ray Nitschke Packers Jersey . � The Dutchman, who already won the 5,000 meters during the opening weekend of the Olympics, said�Monday�that the middle-distance would likely be too much of a distraction during his preparation for the longer race on�Feb. AVONDALE, Ariz. -- Kyle Busch didnt mind the rain that ended the race early. He would have been fine with continuing, though -- his car was that good. Busch became the first driver to win three straight NASCAR Nationwide races at Phoenix International Raceway, dominating his way through a rain-shortened race Saturday. "Weve been very dominant here in the past and led a lot of laps today," Busch said. "I felt like we could have won it if it was rain-shortened or whether we went the whole distance." Busch took an early lead and was still out front when the race was halted with 32 laps left in the 200-mile race around Phoenixs odd-shaped mile oval. After a delay of more than two hours, the race was called, giving Busch his series-record 64th Nationwide victory. Busch led 155 laps for his 10th overall victory -- seven in Nationwide -- at PIR and the fourth straight Nationwide win for Joe Gibbs Racing at the track. It also was the fourth straight win at PIR for Buschs crew chief Adam Stevens, who was at the helm when Joey Logano won for JGR in the 2012 fall race. Kevin Harvick finished second and pole sitter Brad Keselowski was third, followed by Kyle Larson and Matt Kenseth. "Kyle had the best car today; we probably finished where we should have," Harvick said. "You never know and you always want to finish it out, but all in all it was a good start." BBusch swept the two Nationwide races at Phoenix in 2013, overcoming a pit-road speeding penalty to end a 24-race winless streak in the series in the spring and leading 169 laps in the fall for his 12th Nationwide victory of the season. Packers #23 Jersey. He had the dominant car at PIR on Saturday, moving into the lead on the sixth lap after starting third. Busch led 83 laps after that, retook the top spot on a restart after a pit stop midway through and stayed there another with about 60 laps left. "Another dominant day at Phoenix," Busch said. "Those days dont come around that often, so you try to enjoy them when you can." Rain put a slight damper on Buschs run to the checkers and certainly delayed it. PIR dodged the heavy downpours that spread across the Phoenix area for most of the day, but rain sent the fans scrambling and halted the race with 32 laps left. NASCAR sent out the blowers in an effort to get the track dry, but another round of storms moved across the area, soaking the track and ending the race. "I just had my hands full, for whatever reason, and felt kind of relieved to get it over with here," said Keselowski, who will start from the pole for Sundays Sprint Cup race without crew chief Paul Wolfe, who left the team for the birth of his first child. "Third was probably the best I have done, I was holding on pretty good there." ' ' '

It appears that due diligence is being done to bring an NFL franchise to Toronto. Danny Amendola Patriots Jersey .�In a letter received by TSN, members of the citys corporate community are being asked for feedback on the potential of an NFL franchise and stadium in the Greater Toronto Area.�The letter, which was sent from CSL International - a sports facility planning and advisory firm based in Texas - states that Toronto is "at the forefront of potential relocation markets" for the NFL.�While the letter also states that no decisions have been made regarding bringing an NFL team to Toronto, it includes a survey to assess how it may provide an "exciting experience for fans and the corporate community alike." The letter did not specify whose interests were being represented. James White Patriots Jersey . -- A judge has rejected a motion to dismiss charges against Aaron�Hernandez stemming from the 2013 slaying of a Boston man whose body was found near Hernandezs home.Bryan Stork Womens Jersey . 1-8. The Roar of the Rings will determine who will represent Canada at the 2014 Olympic Games in February. For the men, the eight-rink field should bring some intriguing competition with Brier, World and Olympic champions among them. SAN FRANCISCO -- After violence marred a weekend pre-season game against the archrival Oakland Raiders, the San Francisco 49ers on Monday moved to strengthen security at home games, including banning tailgating after kickoff and warning fans that rowdy behaviour wont be tolerated. In addition, 49ers CEO Jed York said he will recommend that the NFL call off the annual pre-season battle between the Niners and Raiders indefinitely. "This is a game where you have a rivalry situation and, unfortunately you have the worst segment from a very small segment of both fan bases that come and brings about this type of event," York said at a news conference at Candlestick Park. "Its our belief that we should recommend to the NFL that this game is at least postponed for some period of time." York later said, "Its unfortunate." Raiders CEO Amy Trask said in response that "we have a terrific working relationship with the 49ers organization, and we look forward to discussing and addressing this issue with them, in the same collaborative and co-operative manner we do all issues." The violence overshadowed the 49ers 17-3 win over the Raiders. "This game was like no other that I can remember, and Ive been a Niner fan my whole life," Police Chief Greg Suhr said. "Nobody could have been prepared for what happened on Saturday night." Suhr, Mayor Ed Lee and 49ers team officials said DUI checkpoints will be near the stadium after games as authorities will strictly forbid alcohol consumption at that time. They also plan to make police and security more visible inside and outside the stadium and urged fans to be more accountable for their actions. "To those of you who decide to come to our games, and it really doesnt matter what jersey you may be wearing, or what hat you may wear, or what team you may support, your behaviour on Saturday night is not welcome," said Jim Mercurio, the 49ers vice-president of stadium operations and security. "Dont come here. Youre not welcome." Earlier Monday, Lee said he was horrified as he watched violent fan confrontations at the game. Lee attended Saturdays game with Oakland Mayor Jean Quan, and both witnessed the brawling firsthand as spectators. "They were just constantly wailing at each other without regard to who was there," Lee said of the fans. "This is a family outing, for residents and visitors and people who want to see the game, not for people to look for people they dont like, then saying bad words,, then getting into it. Devin McCourty Patriots Jersey. quot; Two men who were initially listed as seriously injured in the violence were upgraded to fair condition on Monday. One of the victims, a 24-year-old man who reportedly was wearing a T-shirt reading "F--- the Niners," was shot several times in the stomach. Police said he managed to make it to stadium security for help despite the injuries. The other victim is a 26-year-old man who was beaten unconscious in an upper level stadium restroom during the fourth quarter. Another shooting victim was treated after receiving superficial facial wounds after the game. Police did not release the name of any victims. No arrests have been made. Police were seeking motives in the shootings, including whether the attacks were influenced by emotions involving the annual Battle of the Bay exhibition or possibly gang connections. Police said officers ejected at least 70 people from the stadium on Saturday, compared to about 20 at other games. The figure from Saturday did not include several dozen people ejected by team security, Mercurio said. There were 90 calls for medical service that day, a figure far higher than at a typical Niners home game, officials said. Police Chief Greg Suhr, a lifelong San Franciscan, called it an "aberration." Star running back Frank�Gore said at 49ers headquarters that he was shocked to see so much violence. "I think some of the fans take it too serious," Gore said. "Its a football game. I dont think they should be fighting and shooting and all that." NFL spokesman Greg Aiello echoed similar concerns, saying the league deplored the activities. Trask added that the incidents were not acceptable to the Raiders or to any National Football League team and "our thoughts are with all affected." The Niners said attendance at Saturdays game was about 47,000, far less than the 60,000-seat capacity. Suhr said that there were 10 per cent more police officers on hand than usual at the game. That total increased by 30 per cent midway through the second quarter as the unruliness unfolded. The recent violence come nearly five months after San Francisco Giants fan Bryan Stow was severely beaten by two men in Los Angeles Dodgers gear outside Dodger Stadium after the archrivals season opener. Two men charged in the beating, Louie Sanchez, 28, and Marvin Norwood, 30, have pleaded not guilty. Stow, 42, a Santa Cruz paramedic, suffered severe brain injuries and remains hospitalized in serious condition. ' ' '

ARLINGTON, Texas -- Rangers third baseman Kevin�Kouzmanoff will get a second opinion before having a herniated disk in his lower back surgically repaired. Derek Carr Womens Jersey . While giving several injury updates Tuesday, Texas assistant general manager Thad Levine also said second baseman Jurickson�Profar had an MRI and can start swinging a bat. Profar tore a muscle in his right shoulder during spring training. Opening day starter Tanner�Scheppers, out since April 18 with right elbow inflammation, is set to resume throwing Thursday, a day after left-hander Derek�Hollands scheduled bullpen. Holland is coming back from off-season left knee surgery. Joe�Saunders is scheduled to throw three innings in extended spring training in Arizona on Friday. Saunders was hit by a line drive on his left ankle in his only start April 4. Tyvon Branch Jersey . Scott Cullen has notes on Brassard, Pouliot, Crosby, Kane, Bickell, Hossa and more. RANGERS TAKE OT WIN Derick�Brassard scored at 3:06 of overtime to give the New York Rangers a 3-2 win over the Pittsburgh Penguins in Game One. Usama Young Raiders Jersey . Parker had 22 points in his return from an eight-game absence, Tim�Duncan added 19 points and 16 rebounds and the San Antonio Spurs escaped with a 104-97 overtime victory against the Utah Jazz on Friday night.CINCINNATI, Ohio -- The Bengals released linebacker James�Harrison on Thursday, leaving the former Defensive Player of the Year looking for his third team in three seasons. The 35-year-old linebacker helped the Steelers win a pair of Super Bowls and was the leagues top defensive player in 2008. He left Pittsburgh when the two sides couldnt agree on a restructured deal. Harrison went down the Ohio River to AFC North rival Cincinnati, where he got a two-year contract. The Bengals envisioned him using his pass-rushing ability to become a difference-maker on a defence that was already one of the leagues best. He wound up with a limited role for the first half of the season as he got acclimated. Harrison was limited to 14 or fewer plays in five of the first seven games, making the transition from Pittsburghs 3-4 alignment to a 4-3 in Cincinnati. His role expanded as the season went along and injuries limited the defence. Harrison played in 15 games, starting 10, and finished 12th on the team in tackles. He had two sacks and one interception. "It was great for our coaches, players and fans to have James on our team last year," coach Marviin Lewis said. Lester Hayes Womens Jersey. "Hes a player everyone looks up to because of his ability, his accomplishments and his drive to be the best. He helped us win a division title with his play and with the example he set. "Its time for us to go a different direction now, with some younger guys, but we will all still reap benefits from having had James with us as a Bengal last year." Linebacker Vontaze�Burfict credited Harrison with helping him develop into a Pro Bowl player last season. Cincinnatis defence finished third in the NFL and was the key to the Bengals reaching the playoffs for an unprecedented third straight season. The Bengals lost to San Diego in the opening round, leaving them 0-5 in the playoffs under Lewis. They havent won a playoff game since 1990, matching the sixth-longest streak of playoff futility in NFL history. Harrison tweeted: "Many thanks to all the Bengals fans for your support over the last year -- I had a great time in Cincinnati." Harrison is the second veteran in three days that was released by the team. Center Kyle�Cook, who started all last season, was released on Tuesday. ' ' '