TORONTO - Benito Floro has called in 24 players, ranging from academy talent to veteran Dwayne De Rosario, for the first camp of 2015 for the Canadian mens soccer team.With European seasons in full swing and without the benefit of a FIFA international window, Floro has summoned a predominantly North American-based squad.The Canadians start training Monday in Florida ahead of a friendly next Friday against Iceland. The two teams will meet again Jan. 19. Both games will take place at the University of Central Florida.Its true that speaking of the physical condition, the players may not be fully fit. It is for that, as Ive said before, that we need to learn how to play to win the game using our resources, Floro said in a statement Friday. It means that they wont have a lot of energy but we need to control the situation in the game. We need to develop our plan and strategy and thats very important.Other veterans in camp include goalie Kenny Stamatopoulos, defender Dejan Jakovic, midfielders Patrice Bernier and Julian de Guzman and forward Iain Hume.The squad includes five players from Toronto FC and its academy, four from the Montreal Impact organization and three from the Vancouver Whitecaps and their residency program.Canada is currently ranked No. 112 in the world, compared to No. 33 for Iceland.We always do things in order to win the game. However, it is true in a friendly game the aim is to play well in addition to gaining a result, said Floro. We need to develop a good defensive structure. But its true to that winning games is always a happy time so our intention is to play well and to win the games.Canada, whose last outing was a 0-0 tie in Panama in November, is building towards this summers Gold Cup.Canada is 1-5-4 under Floro, having defeated Jamaica, lost to Colombia, Mauritania, Australia, the Czech Republic and Slovenia, and tied Panama, Mauritania, Bulgaria and Moldova. On the plus side, the Canadian men lost just once in 2014 (going 1-1-3) and that was a 1-0 defeat at the hands of third-ranked Colombia.Iceland is coming off a 2-0 upset of the Netherlands in October Euro 2016 qualifying play and stands second in Group A with a 3-1-0 record.Iceland, led by former Sweden and Nigeria coach Lars Lagerback, is closing on its highest-ever FIFA ranking (No. 28 in October 2014). The team was as low as 131 in April 2012.The team came close to becoming the smallest country to ever qualify for the World Cup, losing 2-0 on aggregate to Croatia in a playoff to reach for the 2014 tournament.Canada and Iceland have played once before — a 1-1 tie in Iceland in 2007.---CANADAGoalkeepers: Sean Melvin, Vancouver Whitecaps; Quillan Roberts, Toronto FC; Kenny Stamatopoulos, AIK (Sweden).Defenders: Nana Attakora, unattached; Kevon Black, Toronto FC; Jonathan Grant, Sigma FC; Dejan Jakovic, Shimizu S-Pulse (Japan); Manjrekar James, PMFC (Hungary); Ashtone Morgan, Toronto FC; Karl W. Ouimette, Montreal Impact; Adam Straith, unattached; Maxim Tissot, Montreal Impact.Midfielders: Patrice Bernier, Montreal Impact; Christoper Mannella, Toronto FC; Julian de Guzman, unattached; Jonathan Osorio, Toronto FC; Issey Nakajima-Farran, Montreal Impact; Samuel Piette, Deportivo la Coruna (Spain); Daniel Stanese, FC Augsburg II (Germany); Russell Teibert, Vancouver Whitecaps.Forwards: Caleb Clarke, Vancouver Whitecaps; Dwayne De Rosario, unattached; Iain Hume, Kerala Blasters (India); Kyle Porter, unattached.Follow @NeilMDavidson on Twitter Philadelphia 76ers Store . Chelsea took until the second half to trouble the leagues bottom team, but Schuerrle then ripped through the defence with ease at Craven Cottage to keep Jose Mourinhos side on track for the title. 76ers Jerseys 2019 . -- The road to the Masters got off to a bumpy start Sunday for Tiger Woods when he withdrew from the Honda Classic with what he said was a lower back injury. https://www.cheap76ers.com/. - Buffalo Bills running back C. Stitched 76ers Jerseys . Williams withdrawal came less than 24 hours after losing in the final Auckland WTA tournament final. "I dont believe she has an injury," Hobart tournament director Mark Handley said. 76ers Jerseys China .Carla Fontes hadnt cut her hair since intermediate school, but her coach at Waiakea High School, Stan Haraguchi, thought the locks flowing below her waist were interfering with the sport.Norman, OK (SportsNetwork.com) - Intrastate rivals collide on Tuesday evening, as the Golden Eagles of Oral Roberts pay a visit to the 15th-ranked Oklahoma Sooners. After starting the season at 1-3, Oral Roberts have won three of its last four to climb back to the .500 mark (4-4). The Golden Eagles improved to 3-0 at home on Monday night, as they took down Missouri State in an 80-61 final. They are 0-3 in true road games however, and this is the first of three straight and five of the next six the team will play away from the Mabee Center. Oklahoma comes in with a 6-2 record, and the team is seeking its third consecutive victory after taking down Missouri (82-63) and Tulsa (87-68) since the start of December. The Sooners are 3-0 at home this season. Two years ago in Tulsa, Oklahoma snapped Oral Roberts 24-game regular-season, home winning streak with a 63-62 victory. As a result, the Sooners lead in the all-time series stands at 12-2. Oral Roberts drained a season-high 10 3-pointers in turning away the visiting Missouri State Bears on Monday night. Bobby Word scored 16 points, Adrion Webber tallied a career-best 15, and Denell Henderson pitched in with a dozen to go with eight rebounds for the Golden Eagles, who shot 49.1 percent from the field and converted 14-of-18 free throws. The teams defensive effort yielded only a .393 opponents field goal percentage, which included a dismal 4-of-17 showing from beyond the arc. Aaron Young and Obi Emegano each scored a 12 points for the winning side as well. Emegano and Korey Billbury are the only two players averaging double figures for ORU on the sseason, netting 16.dddddddddddd9 and 13.8 ppg, respectively. They also pace the teams rebounding effort with a combined 11.8 rpg. Overall, the Golden Eagles are putting up just 66.4 ppg in hitting only 39.9 percent of their total shots, which includes a 31.3 percent performance from beyond the arc. Conversely, foes are scoring just shy of 70 ppg in hitting 45.0 percent of their field goal attempts, with a .366 3-point FG percentage figured in there as well. ORU is +1.4 in turnover margin, goading the opposition into close to 14 miscues per outing. TaShawn Thomas scored 25 points and Isaiah Cousins hit for 21, as Oklahoma claimed a double-digit win at Tulsa on Saturday. Buddy Hield pitched in with 11 points, despite going just 4-of-17 from the field, which included misses on nine of his 11 3-point tries. Jordan Woodard dished out nine assists for the Sooners, who shot 46.9 percent from the field and went 19-of-24 at the foul line. Tulsa was held to 40 percent field goal efficiency, and OU used 12 offensive rebounds to account for 24 second-chance points. Hield (16.0 ppg), Cousins (13.4 ppg) and Thomas (10.3 ppg) are Oklahomas only double-digit scorers at the moment, although leading rebounder Ryan Spanger (9.6 ppg, 8.3 rpg) is close to joining the ranks. As a team, the Sooners are netting 73.8 ppg while permitting 62.1 ppg, and they are limiting the opposition to rather anemic shooting efforts of .367 overall and .279 from beyond the arc. Factor in a +4.0 rebounding advantage and its not difficult to see why the team has won three times as many games as its lost to this point. ' ' '

SOUTHAMPTON, England - Japan defender Maya Yoshida has signed a new three-year contract with English Premier League club Southampton before heading to the Asian Cup.Southampton says the 26-year-old Yoshida, who has made 60 appearances since arriving in 2012, is now under contract until 2018.With Japans Asian Cup opener on Jan. 12 and the tournament running in Australia until Jan. 31, Yoshida might not return to action for Southampton until Feb. 7 against Queens Park Rangers.The south-coast club is surprisingly in fourth place — the final Champions League qualification spot — at the start of the second half of the season. Jack McCloskey Jersey Signed . - The Oakland Athletics say they are stopping negotiations to extend their lease at the Coliseum. Korleone Young Jersey Signed .com) - John Wall supplied 24 points and 11 assists in leading the Washington Wizards to a 102-91 win over the New York Knicks on Christmas Day. https://www.cheapnbajerseysjustwholesale.com/. Liriano pitched in and out of trouble in his duel with Josh Beckett, and Ike Davis homered to help the Pittsburgh Pirates beat the Los Angeles Dodgers 2-1 Friday night. Jerry Grote Jersey Signed .Balotelli uploaded on Instagram a picture of the video-game character Super Mario, with whom the Italy international shares a nickname, with text around the image including jumps like a black man and grabs coins like a Jew. Nike NBA Jerseys . Her return engagement begins tonight as TSN presents Day 1 coverage of the 2015 event from Melbourne. Watch Eugenie Bouchards opening round match at the Australian Open live tonight on TSN5 at 3am et/Midnight pt. ATLANTA -- With their playoff hopes uncertain, Atlantas struggling batters picked a bad time to get no-hit by Cole Hamels and three Philadelphia relievers. "You feel like youve hit a good stride," manager Fredi Gonzalez said. "And all of a sudden you go through a stretch where you score one run in 27 innings, and lucky enough to win one of those games." Hamels and the Phillies bullpen combined on the seasons fourth no-hitter, blanking the Atlanta Braves 7-0 Monday. Atlanta lost 4-0 two days earlier to Miami and beat the Marlins 1-0 Sunday. The Braves, who had won 11 of 15, began Monday 1 1/2 games back in the NL wild-card race. But nobody could solve Hamels and the Philadelphia bullpen. Jason Heyward drew two walks and stole three bases. Atlanta was otherwise punchless. "He walked a few guys on and he gave us an opportunity," Justin Upton said after going 0 for 3 with two strikeouts. "We should have executed in that situation, but we didnt and it just kind of steamrolled from there." It was all the more unusual in that Hamels left the game with his bid intact after six innings. He was fine with the decision, too, having already thrown 108 pitches at a hot afternoon at Turner Field. "Just understanding the situation, every time I went out there I was battling control issues," Hamels said. "I wasnt getting ahead of guys. Walking the leadoff hitter will put you in a lot of trouble, and it does. It builds up your pitch count." Hamels (8-6) struck out seven, matched a season high with five walks and hit a batter. Relievers Jake Diekman, Ken Giles and closer Jonathan Papelbon each pitched a perfect inning to finish off the gem. A smiling Hamels watched from the bench as they finished off what he started. Clayton Kershaw and Josh Beckett of the Dodgers and Tim Lincecum of the Giants threw no-hitters earlier this year. Right fielder Marlon Byrd foiled the Braves best bid for a hit. With runners on second and third in the third inning, Byrd raced in and toward the line to make a diving catch on Chris Johnsons slicing liner to end the inning. Johnson came close again in the ninth with a grounder up the middle. Shortstop Jimmy Rollins ranged behind the bag to make the play. Phil Gosselin then lined out to first baseman Darin Ruf, who had taken over in the ninth for Ryan Howard, to end the game. Hamels singled and scored in the sixth inning, and got pats of congratulations in the dugout after pitching the bottom half.dddddddddddd He was on deck in the seventh, but a decision already seemed to be made when he was pulled for pinch-hitter Grady Sizemore. The 30-year-old Hamels already had impressive accomplishments on his resume -- in 2008, he was the MVP of the World Series and the NL championship series, and hes a three-time All-Star. Diekman struck out two and Giles fanned three before Papelbon took over. This was the 11th combined no-hitter in major league history. Kevin Millwood and five Seattle relievers teamed up to do it against the Dodgers in 2012. The first combined no-hitter came in 1917 when Babe Ruth walked the first Washington batter of the game and was ejected, and Boston Red Sox reliever Ernie Shore didnt allow another runner. Roy Halladay pitched the previous two Phillies no-hitters -- he threw a perfect game against the Marlins in 2010, then threw a no-hitter the same year in the playoffs against Cincinnati. It was 12th no-hitter in Phillies history. The last pitcher to no-hit the Braves was Ubaldo Jimenez of Colorado in 2010. Philadelphia manager Ryne Sandberg knew Hamels was tired and ready to come out of the game. Their discussion was a quick one. "He was pretty well spent there," Sandberg said. The early innings had something to do with it. The stressful innings, stranding the runners at second and third a couple of times, but he wasnt going to go nine." Ben Revere tripled and drove in a career-high five runs. The leadoff man started the day with 15 RBIs this season. Julio Teheran (13-10) gave up five hits and five runs -- two earned -- with four walks in 6 2-3 innings. He left after Reveres bases-loaded triple made it 5-0 in the seventh. Shortstop Andrelton Simmons error set up the runs. Philadelphia has won Hamels last five starts against the Braves. He owns a 0.97 ERA and four victories in that span. "Past the third inning he started throwing the ball where he wanted to," Johnson said. "With that cutter and that sinker both in, you didnt know which way it was going to go, whether it was going to go in on your hands or back towards the plate." UP NEXT Phillies: RHP Kyle Kendrick (7-11) starts Tuesday vs. Atlanta. He has a 6.55 ERA over his last nine starts. ... Braves LHP Mike Minor (6-8) is winless with two losses and a 2.77 ERA in two starts against Philadelphia this year. ' ' '

With the NHL Draft coming up on June 27 and free agency opening on July 1, discussions between NHL general managers are already heating up towards a busy off-season. Each day, TSN.ca provides the latest rumours, reports and speculation from around the NHL beat. The latest from Bob As tweeted by TSN Hockey Insider Bob McKenzie on Monday, the Columbus Blue Jackets need to resolve their offseason plans with forward R.J. Umberger. He asked for a trade in May and makes $4.5 million in each of the next three seasons. McKenzie adds that the last resort would be to buy out Umberger, but the Jackets remain hopeful theres a market for him. McKenzie also reports that the Colorado Avalanche are shopping winger P.A. Parenteau. he has two years left on his deal at $4 million per year. Craigs List Oilers GM Craig MacTavish told The Edmonton Suns Terry Jones that he would like to add four or five players - with one or two of them via trade and two or three through unrestricted free agency. "It would be nice to get something in place before free agency," said MacTavish, explaining that trades were the first priority. "The managers meeting at the final really gets everybody talking a little bit more. This week will be a busy week for everybody to see what the fits are out there. "We had our pro scouts meeting Thursday and Friday. We had some good discussions there. This year there are not so many top free agents available. The guys who would normally be secondary targets are now the primary targets. Its a good year to be a UFA." Richards Gone? Larry Brooks of The New York Post writes that the Rangers have conducted their annual pre-free agency and pre-draft player evaluation meetings and adds that Brad Richards is expected to become the clubs second and final amnesty buyout - perhaps as early as this week. A buyout of Richards would clear $6.67 million of cap space for the Rangers, who would have about $24 million in space if the cap is at $70 million next season. No Canada? According to Bruce Garrioch of The Ottawa Sun, the Calgary Flames have made a pitch to the Senators for Jason Spezza, but a deal is unlikely to happen. As Garrioch writes, Spezza isnt too interested in playing in Canada as the Flames, Canucks, Oilers and Jets are on his list of 10 teams that he doesnt want to be traded to. He adds the Flames are thought to be offering Jiri Hudler, Mikael Backlund, or Dennis Wideman and one of their several second and third round draft picks. Darrell Brown Jersey Signed . - Derek Wolfe says hes finally healthy after suffering a seizure in November that doctors now believe was related to the spinal cord injury he suffered in the preseason. Kenny Anderson Jersey Signed . -- Arizona pitcher Bronson Arroyo is expected to miss a week to 10 days because of a back injury. https://www.cheapnbajerseysjustwholesale...-jersey-signed/. on the 15-day disabled Monday list because of a strained right hamstring. Bobby Brown Jersey Signed . Bobrovsky posted a 2-0-1 record with a 1.58 goals-against average and .950 save percentage to help the Blue Jackets (35-26-6) gain five of a possible six points last week. He capped the week by making 32 saves and stopping 2-of-4 shootout attempts in a 2-1 win over the Minnesota Wild on Saturday. Bob Riley Jersey Signed .C. -- Carter Ashton had a pair of goals and added an assist as the Toronto Marlies downed the Charlotte Checkers 5-2 on Saturday in the American Hockey League.MILAN, Italy -- AC Milan dismissed manager Clarence Seedorf on Monday and replaced him with another club great, Filippo Inzaghi. In a brief statement, Milan said it has handed youth-team coach Inzaghi a two-year contract until June 30, 2016. "I am very happy, today for me is an unforgettable day," Inzaghi said. "I thank President (Silvio) Berlusconi and the whole club for their trust and the prestigious opportunity that has been given to me. "I will give my all for these colours, with dedication, passion and determination, as I have always done whether as a player or as coach of the youth teams." Seedorf, who was only four months into a 2 1/2 year contract, replaced the fired Massimiliano Allegri in January. The former Dutch star led Milan to an eighth-place finish in Serie A, with 11 wins in his 19 league matches in charge. Despite an impresssive first leg performance against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League last 16, Milan went out to the eventual runners-up 5-1 on aggregate.dddddddddddd The 40-year-old Inzaghi has long been touted as a future coach of Milan. Like his former teammate Seedorf, Inzaghi has no previous first-team managerial experience. But the Italian has been coaching in the youth sectors at Milan since retiring in 2012 and has achieved impressive results. Inzaghi had a glittering 11-year playing career at Milan, winning two Serie A titles -- to add to the one he won at Juventus -- and two Champions League trophies. "I am honoured and proud to be the coach of a team that has been my life for so many years, a team and a club with which I have shared unforgettable joy and emotions," Inzaghi added. The former striker also won the World Cup with Italy in 2006. ' ' '

The Kansas City Royals are still a dark horse favourite as far as the World Series goes, but KC is rapidly turning into the peoples choice after beating Oakland 9-8 in that Wild Card game extra-inning thriller and then wiping out the L.A. Angels three straight in their A.L Division series. Going all the way still wont be an easy task. Since the advent of the original Wild Card format, only four teams have gone on to win the World Series from that position. In the American League that would be the Angels in 2002 and Boston in 2007. The Red Sox incidently have made to the postseason through the back door Wild Card route more than any other franchise, seven times in all. The two National League Wild Card World Series winners over that 20-year span were the Florida Marlins in 1997 and the St. Louis Cardinals in 2011. The Rockies and Cards have made it to the Playoffs as Wild Cards most frequently among the Senior Circuit clubs at three times apiece. We talk so much about what pitching means to success, and it certainly does. But the Atlanta Braves are an interesting case. Theyve made it twice to playoffs as a Wild Card team, however they havent won a single playoff series in over a decade. This despite having the second-best ERA in the Majors over the past nine years at 3.75. The Braves pitching coach over those nine years has been Roger McDowell, he of the Magic Loogie Seinfeld episode. Concussions have come to the fore as a major problem in pro and amateur sports over the past few years, Baseball is no exception, but the bulk of concerns in the Majors surrounds one position, catcher. In these playoffs alone, Royals star catcher Salvatore Perez was hit in the head on the follow-through of a Josh Hamilton swing in Game 2 of their series. Perez was left dazed and suffering from concussion-like symptoms, but fortunately is alright. Then Sunday, in Game 3 of the Orioles series, Tigers catcher Alex Avila took a foul ball right off the jaw and had to leave the game. Its not the first time it has happened to Avila and it has caused some to worry about his long-term future in the game. Just doing a rough count, I came up with seven other catchers who have had concussions or at least concussion-like symptoms. The Twins Joe Mauer heads the list. He has become a 1B/DH type after getting hit in the mask a number of times. He may never catch full-time again. The others on the list include the Blue Jays Dioner Navarro, the Yankees Brian McCann, Bostons David Ross and Oaklands John Jasso in the American League along with the Mets Travis DArnaud, the Phillies Carlos Ruiz and the Giants Hector Sanchez. That was only a quick search - I know there are more. Baseball has already done its best to eliminate home plate collisions, but Im honestly not sure what can be done about foul tips and follow through swings. Being a catcher has always been a hazardous occupation and to a certain degree at least it always will be. The Search is On For the bulk of 30 Major League clubs, the off-season has already begun. Houston has already hired A.J. Hinch as its new manager, and the Astros old skipper Bo Porter has surfaced as the Braves third base coach. Texas and Arizona are still looking for new managers. Of the eight candidates the Rangers are considering and interviewing, two have former ties to the Blue Jays. One is Clevelands bullpen coach and former Jays catcher Kevin Cash, and the other is John Farrells bench coach Torey Lovullo, who was also a coach on Farrells staff with the Blue Jays for two years. The Rangers are also close to adding two assistants to GM Jon Daniels. The first is former Jays third base prospect Michael Young, who went on to star with Texas and the Phillies, and the other is former Jays reliever Darren Oliver. Arizona is also interviewing eight candidates including Don Wakamatsu, who was Farrells bench coach with the Jays, and Diamondbacks hitting coach Turner Ward who came off the bench with the Blue Jays when they won the World Series in 1992 and 1993. Also on the list is Sandy Alomar Jr., Robbies brother, who has been coaching in Cleveland the past few years. Popularity Poll There has never really been a question as to which team is more popular in Chicago. But this point only further serves to drive the point home. The Cubs and White Sox finished with identical records and both missed the Playoffs by a mile yet the North side Cubs drew one million more fans than the South siders. Lawrence Guy Jersey . -- The Vancouver Whitecaps remained unbeaten with a scoreless draw at the New England Revolution on Saturday. Phillip Dorsett II Jersey . Karlovic of Croatia used his big serve to beat Jiri Vesely of the Czech Republic 7-6 (6), 7-6 (7). Kohlschreiber had lost all of his three previous matches against Istomin but the German broke serve for a decisive 3-2 lead in the third set and held on to reach his first final of the year. https://www.patriotsjerseysale.com/701p-...y-patriots.html. -- Jose Bautista never worries about hitting homers during the regular season. Andre Tippett Jersey . As if the individual strands of grey hair or the increasing amount of joint pain werent reminders enough, the impending end of Jeters career is a slap-in-the-face indicator of a generations fleeting youth. Joe Cardona Jersey . The Redblacks are taking on the Edmonton Eskimos in their second regular season game Friday night. Catch the game live on TSN as the back end of a doubleheader starting at 10pm et/7pm pt. ' ' '

METAIRIE, La. -- Roland "Champ" Bailey, who turns 36 next month, figures theres no use trying to fool anyone -- least of all himself -- about his age. As of now, hes the oldest every-down player on New Orleans roster; place kicker Shayne Graham is his only elder teammate. "If you put me on any team, Im always going to be the old guy," Bailey said. "Its just something Ive got to get used to." Preferring to avoid comparisons to the player he was several years ago, Baily is focusing on what he can do in 2014. Thats when the Saints relatively young and partly overhauled secondary will need his leadership, veteran savvy, and still formidable play-making skills. "One thing I dont want to do is look back or look too far ahead. Im taking care of whats in front of me. Thats getting in shape and getting to know my guys," Bailey said. "My first thing is to lead by example, show how hard I can work and try to lead that way. And all these guys -- I know I have a lot of experience and Im not going to shy away from telling them things I think they need to hear and making sure Im there for them when they have questions." Now entering his 16th NFL season, Bailey has been named to 12 Pro Bowls. His 52 career interceptions are the most among active players. He was among the more high-profile free-agent additions New Orleans made this off-season, along with safety Jairus Byrd. Unlike Bailey, Byrd is in the prime of his career, entering his sixth season with three Pro Bowls and 22 interceptions and 11 forced fumbles already to his name. Also unlike Bailey, Byrd was not available to participate in voluntary off-season practices this week because of back surgery. Coach Sean Payton said Byrds procedure to address a nagging problem with a disc should not sideline the safety beyond the start of training camp. "Its something that didnt need to be done, but both he and ourselves felt like it would be something that would prevent any issues in the fall," Payton said. "Our guess would be that well be real cautious ... and then hell start up training camp with no problem." Bailey, who last season missed 11 games with a left foot injury, said he feels good now, and backed it up with his performance on the field. During 11-on-11 drills, Bailey made a leaping breakup of Luke McCowns pass intended for Andy Tanner along the sideline. Later, Bailey tipped McCowns slant pass intended for Kenny Stills, resulting in an interception by linebacker Kyle Knox. "He looks fantastic," defensive co-ordinator Rob Ryan said. "You look out there and you think hes one of those young guys running around. But hes bringing excitement to our defence and knowledge and its awesome to add a great player like him." Quarterback Drew Brees recalled throwing an interception that Bailey returned for a 25-yard touchdown in 2005, when Brees was with San Diego and Bailey with Denver. The Broncos came back to win that game in large part because of Baileys play, and Brees said Baileys play-making was why game plans included "no-throw zones," whenever Denver was the opponent. "Certain routes, certain areas of the field, you just knew: Dont even think about it. Its not worth it," Brees recalled. The Saints hope Bailey will still come up with such plays while mentoring younger cornerbacks including 2010 first-round pick Patrick Robinson, who missed most of last season with a knee injury; rookie Stanley Jean-Baptiste, a second round pick; and third-year cornerback Corey White. Even Keenan Lewis, the Saints top cornerback, could benefit from Baileys presence. "Theres so much value in having a guy like that," Brees said. "Not only what he can teach our young guys, but just hes still and extremely productive player. ... He wouldnt have chosen the New Orleans Saints if he didnt think we had a legitimate shot here -- and that he could help us." Notes: In addition to Byrd, those missing practice included DT John Jenkins, DE Tyrunn Walker, WR Joseph Morgan and WR Brandin Cooks. Cooks was excused to finish the school year at Oregon State. Payton declined to address the conditions of Jenkins, Walker or Morgan, though Morgan wore a sleeve his left knee, which he injured last training camp, putting him out for the season. Ed Olczyk Jersey .com) - The Detroit Pistons and Boston Celtics both entered Wednesday nights game riding lengthy losing streaks. Bob Errey Jersey . - Jordan Addesis shootout goal helped the Plymouth Whalers to a 3-2 win over the Sault Ste. https://www.cheappenguinsjersey.com/1771...y-penguins.html. -- Claudio Bieler hadnt scored since early September, and not from the run of play since mid-July. Orest Kindrachuk Jersey . "I never commented to anyone that I wanted out," he explained. "My heart is with this group and making the playoffs." Kesler added that the rumours are "completely false" that he asked to be traded - recently or ever. Mark Recchi Jersey . Ted Ligety, Mikaela Shiffrin, Bode Miller and Tim Jitloff underlined the squads enormous potential on the Rettenbach glacier in Austria.Each week, The Three-Man Weave will fill the lanes and Weave To Achieve on the News, Views and Truths of the NBA and beyond. The unit will be led by Will Strickland and Duane Watson, hosts of TSN 1050s basketball radio show, 1 On 1 with Will & Duane. This week, the first overall pick in the 2013 NBA Draft, Toronto native and Cleveland Cavaliers forward Anthony Bennett joins the discussion, where The #3MW discusses the Raptors looking to win their first playoff series in over a decade, Commissioner Adam Silvers ruling on Donald Sterling and of course the NBA Playoffs. What Do The Raptors Have To Do To Win Game 6 in Brooklyn? Bennett: Its good to see the Raptors back in the playoffs and have the whole city of Toronto behind them. Brooklyn is a tough and experienced team. I think the Raptors will have to limit turnovers, rebound efficiently and contain Deron Williams and Joe Johnson. Watson: Defense, defense, defense. If the Raptors can muster up that defense presence they used at the end of Game 4, the game is theirs. The quick double-teams on scorers like Joe Johnson and more importantly the second man rotations, have proven to limit the Nets opportunities. problems. Offensively, they have to continue to move the ball and use their size to their advantage with the solid play of their big men of Jonas Valanciunas, Amir Johnson and Patrick Patterson. Strickland: Protect The Pumpkin. Value Every Possession On Both Ends. Win Every Quarter By One Point. Be Not Afraid Of The Moment. Then And Only Then Will The World Unfold As It Should... #WeTheNorthNBA Commissioner Adam Silvers Lifetime Ban Of Clippers Owner Donald Sterling Was...? Bennett: The Commissioners lifetime ban of Donald Sterling was very fitting. The NBA is a very diverse league with players from all over the world. The league continues to grow and it is my belief that this ban will help to grow the NBA. Watson: Swift and fair. Knowing the past pandering of former Commissioner David Stern, the league office has been known to favour its owners. Commissioner Silver unequivocally established himself as his own man in the most important decision of his young tenure. He did exactly what he was supposed to do, but truth be told, I was a little surprised that he did it, based on the history of the league. Strickland: Adroit and Resolute. It was far more than Id initially expected, but Silvers playing the long game. Any equivocation outside of Sterlings expulsion from the league as an owner would have possibly done irreparable damage to the NBA... and he and the other 29 owners knew it. Silver officially became the Commissioner of the NBA once he planted this flag. It will be a defining moment in his legacy. Adam Silvers decision didnt end racism in sports, ownership or the world. But it did set a very important precedent and protocol in dealing with issues like this in sport. Most Surprising Player In The Eastern Conference Playoffs Thus Far? Bennett: The most surprising player in the East hasnt been a surprise to me because I have played against him in Las Vegas, but it would have to be Kyle Lowry. He is just incredible for what he brings to the game for his size. Watson: Washington Wizards big man Nene missed 22 games down the stretch of the season with a sprained MCL and only played in four regular season matches before the post-season. He not only came back averaging 17.8 points per game in the playoffs on .548 % from the field, spacing the floor, but outplayed Defensive Plaayer of the Year Joakim Noah.dddddddddddd In his 11th season, hes showing he still has it and is a perfect compliment to the the speed and shooting of the Wizards wings in John Wall, Bradley Beal and Trevor Ariza. Strickland: Nene, easily. The talents always been there. Sounds a little oxymoronic to say "Wizards fans", but... They should revel in the fact that Nenes finally put it all together when it counted most, destroying the 2013-2014 Defensive Player of The Year, Joakim Noah. He must also not become a #BrainCrampChamp during the playoffs by getting ejected/suspended for working on his MMA skills during NBA games! Most Surprising Player In The Western Conference Playoffs Thus Far? Bennett: In the West, it would have to be Damian Lillard. Scary that this is the first go around in the NBA Playoffs and he looks like hes been there for years. Watson: LaMarcus Aldridge of the Trail Blazers has been in discussion as one of the best power forwards in the NBA, but he is ending those talks with his post season play right now. The power forward is averaging 29.8 points per game with 10.8 rebounds, carrying his team on his back. His ability to consistently knock down the mid-range jumper at a clip of .500% has forced the Houston big men to come out and contest him or get beat off the dribble. He has shown another level to his game, particularly when it matters. Strickland: La Marcus Aldridge. He felt like he should have started in the All-Star this past season and hes proving why he should be considered without question one of the best players in the NBA, if not the best power forward in the game. 30 ppg and 11 rpg are monster numbers that can only aid this young Portland Trail Blazers team in securing a first round defeat of the highly touted Houston Rockets of James Harden and Dwight Howard. Aldridge can have those guys reaching for the tackleboxes early to start their summers of lament and woe with a legendary Game 7 performance. The 2014-2015 Anthony Bennett Will Be...? Bennett: Next season, I will finally be a healthy me again who gets to play in summer league and contribute to my teams success in the regular season and we will hopefully be in the playoffs next year.Watson: Whatever he wants himself to be. The Toronto, ON native faced intense criticism last year after recovering from shoulder surgery, which forced him to miss summer league and parts of training camp. He wont have those obstacles this year, which should all help his growth, he showed flashes of the talent that earned him the #1 pick in the 2013 NBA Draft and has tons of motivation to prove all of his critics wrong. Look for Bennett to bounce back. Strickland: A Year Better. A Year Stronger. A Year Wiser. Bennett, who I chose as Rookie Of The Year in our Pre-Season #UNO Awards on #1On1, fell far short of that lofty goal. It was a difficult year of ridicule, doubt, injury, second-guessing and hand wringing for Cavs fans and media pundits. Bramptons very own Anthony Bennett should shed the weight of expectation and go into training camp next season armed with knowledge of the effort it takes to be a top flight NBA player and work to achieve all of his goals and not ours. The Three-Man Weave contributors are co-hosts of TSN Radio 1050s 1-on-1 with Will and Duane, Will Strickland (@WallStrizzle1) and Duane Watson (@byDuaneWatson) and special guest 68", 250 lb Weave Achiever, Cleveland Cavaliers SF Anthony Bennett (@AnthonyBennett) ' ' '

EAST LANSING, Mich. -- Michigan State cant count on many of its players to perform consistently well. Keith Appling has been an exception in Big Ten play. Appling scored 24 points to help the fifth-ranked Spartans beat Minnesota 87-75 in overtime Saturday after overcoming a double-digit deficit in the second half and blowing a lead late in regulation. "No lead is safe at the end of a game, especially in the Big Ten," Appling said. The Spartans (15-1, 4-0 Big Ten) are well aware of that fact. The Spartans scored 15 straight points while holding the Golden Gophers (13-4, 2-2) scoreless for nearly 8 minutes after trailing 53-43 with 15:57 left. Michigan State missed an opportunity to win in regulation for the second straight game, losing a five-point lead in the last 13 seconds. The Spartans were without Adreian Payne because of a sprained right foot. "Theres nothing medically wrong that we can observe," coach Tom Izzo said. "Theres no stress fracture. He wanted to play. Hes not being a wimp. He just didnt feel he could, so I didnt want to take a chance and suit him up." Payne didnt start the previous game, but scored 18 points in an overtime win over No. 3 Ohio State in which Michigan State wasted a 17-point lead in the second half. "We deserve some criticism for how weve executed," Izzo said. Late in regulation, the Gophers (13-4, 2-2) made plays and got a break that gave them a shot to pull off an upset. Minnesotas Malik Smith made his fifth 3-pointer, Gary Harris missed two free throws with 11.3 seconds left for the Spartans and DeAndre Mathieus layup with 1.7 seconds left tied the game and sent it to overtime. First-year Gophers coach Richard Pitino was glad Mathieu made the shot, but it wasnt the one he wanted. "I was running a play and trying to shoot a 3 to be honest with you," Pitino said. Michigan State scored the first nine points of OT, ending Minnesotas chance to beat a top-five team on its home court for the first time in school history and to win at the Breslin Center for the first time since 1997. "Anytime you go on the road in a great environment and you step up for 40 minutes and you dont win the game, it is a bit of a missed opportunity," Pitino said. "But there will be plenty more." Minnesotas next two home games are against Ohio State and Wisconsin, teams currently ranked No. 3 and No. 4 in The Associated Press poll. The Spartans barely did enough to keep winning and match the best 16-game record Izzo has had in 19 seasons, equaling the record they had during the 2000-01 season as defending national champions. Minnesota guard Austin Hollins turned the ball over with 42 seconds left and teammate Andre Hollins had an ill-advised 3-pointer blocked with 23 seconds left, trailing by three on each possession. Then, the Gophers struggled to take care of the basketball in OT and couldnt stop the Spartans. "We just made some bonehead plays," Andre Hollins said. Minnesota needed more than 4 minutes to score in the extra period and those points pulled it within seven. "We came in confident," Andre Hollins said. "We expected to win this game. Its not a moral victory. We have to give them a lot of credit for making their free throws." Andre Hollins scored 24 and Smith had 17 points off the bench. Smith scored 11 of his points, nine on 3-pointers, in the first 12 minutes of the game to help the Gophers lead 41-36 at halftime after making 7 of 12 shots beyond the arc. They made just 3 of 14 3-pointers in the second half and overtime. Harris had 19 points and redshirt freshman Kenny Kaminski scored a season-high 15 -- all on 3-pointers. Appling said Kaminski, "saved the day," for the Spartans. Izzo has not been pleased lately with Branden Dawson and Denzel Valentine and both played relatively well at times against Minnesota. Dawson finished with six points and 10 rebounds after not scoring and grabbing just three rebounds in the first half. "Theres something wrong with Brandan," Izzo said. "Theres something bothering him. You can see it -- you dont have to be a coach." Valentine had nine points, 10 rebounds, four assists, four steals and a blocked shot late in regulation. "He got some big rebounds late and he defended better," Izzo said. Authentic Sports Jerseys .com) - A pair of programs shooting for their 10th win of the season get together at Madison Square Garden on Saturday, as the NC State Wolfpack tangle with 22nd-ranked West Virginia during the challenge round of the Gotham Classic. Discount Sports Jerseys . This is Lowry’s third time winning the award in his career. He won the award last season and as a member of the Houston Rockets in 2011. https://www.discountsportsjerseyscheap.com/. Lost to Los Angeles in first round of playoffs. Cheap Sports Jerseys . Cain departed in the fourth inning of a 10-5 loss to the Pirates on Thursday. X-rays on Cains bruised forearm were negative. He was hit when Sanchez led off the fourth with a groundout. Sports Jerseys Sale . Jamies number grades given are out of five, with five being the best mark. Henrik Lundqvist, New York Rangers (4) – He had a strong game Sunday; was very good in tight with big saves on Crosby, Malkin and Neal in-crease.MIAMI -- With plenty of rest and enough run support, All-Star Tim Hudson got his second half off to a winning start. Hudson pitched into the eighth inning after having eight days between starts, and the San Francisco Giants beat the Miami Marlins 5-3 on Saturday night. "He was sharp, Im sure the added rest probably did benefit him," Giants manager Bruce Bochy said. Hudson (8-6) came into the game with just five runs of support in his last five starts, but the Giants jumped out to a 5-1 lead in the fourth inning, which was enough for the 39-year old veteran. He allowed one run and eight hits in 7 1-3 innings. He struck out three and did not walk a batter while throwing 52 of his 81 pitches for strikes. "Obviously, this time of year, extra rest is usually welcomed," Hudson said. Hunter Pence drove in two runs and Pablo Sandoval had three hits for the Giants, who have won four of five. They are 54-43, the best record in the National League. "Im proud that we are in first place," Sandoval said. Giancarlo Stanton hit his National League-best 23rd home run for Miami, which has lost six straight. It was his second home run in two days after not hitting one for three weeks. "Thats good, back-to-back homers," Marlins manager Mike Redmond said. "Hopefully that gets him going. We definitely need him. Hes the guy, so its good to see him have a couple big at-bats and a couple home runs." Marlins All-Star starter Henderson Alvarez (6-5) departed with a bruised left shin after being hit by a grounder by Joe Panik in the third. Alvarez threw out Panik at first before limping off. X-rays were negative and he plans on making his next start on July 24. "It got me in between the bone and the flesh," Alvarez said. "It got me pretty good. Luckily IIm fine, just a bump.dddddddddddd. I anticipate on making my next start. We have to give it a couple days to see how it heals, but as of now Im looking to pitch in Atlanta." Sergio Romo allowed a home run to Stanton to lead off the ninth and departed after allowing a two-out double to Marcell Ozuna. Jarrod Saltalamacchia hit an RBI single off Santiago Casilla to pull the Marlins within 5-3, but Adeiny Hechavarria lined out to end the game as Casilla picked up his fifth save in eight opportunities. Giants first baseman Brandon Belt left the game in the third due to dizziness, but not before hitting an RBI double. Belt was struck by a ball in the face during batting practice when two balls were thrown at him at the same time. "He seemed OK," Bochy said. "Of course he had the big hit to get us going and then he started complaining of headaches, got a little nauseous, dizziness." Belt will be held out of Sundays game and will be given a concussion test. Miami trailed 2-1 when Alvarez left the game and was replaced by Sam Dyson. Dyson was sharp in his first inning of work before allowing three runs in the fourth, which included hitting a batter and walking two. His bases-loaded walk to Hudson gave the Giants a 3-1 lead. Pence stretched the lead to 5-1 with a two-run single. Casey McGehee had an RBI single in the first to give the Marlins an early lead. NOTES: Marlins 2B Jordany Valdespin went 1 for 4 in his season debut after being selected from Triple-A New Orleans. ... Hudson is 15-4 in his career against the Marlins including an 11-1 mark in South Florida. ... The Giants will send RHP Tim Lincecum (9-5, 3.66 ERA) to the mound in Sundays series finale against LHP Brad Hand (0-2, 5.26). Lincecum is 4-0 with a 0.30 ERA since June 25. ' ' '

SAINT JOHN, N.B. -- There are more injury concerns for Canadas Kaetlyn Osmond only three months out from the Sochi Olympics. The 17-year-old from Marystown, N.L., withdrew from Skate Canada International with a hamstring injury on Saturday, just three weeks after shed returned from a foot injury. Osmond, who was sidelined for all of September with a stress reaction -- a precursor to a stress fracture -- was fifth after Fridays short program. But she woke up Saturday with pain in her hamstring, and could barely put any weight on her leg during the morning practice session. "Im obviously disappointed that I wont be able to do my long program," Osmond said. "My long program is my favourite program and the one that I wanted to show everyone. . . but it just gives me more motivation to get back on the ice and recover, fully recover from any injury Ive had, and just be ready to compete at the next competition." Osmond said the hamstring injury is something that has bothered her a couple of times a year for the past few years, but the pain usually subsides within several hours. "I was hoping it was some sort of cramp or something, so I showed up for practice this morning hoping that it would feel better with a bit of movement and everything," she said. "But . . . trying to do choreography, it was really painful, so I got off, tried to get some treatment on it, and we just decided it was better to take the rest of this competition off." Julia Lipnitskaia, a 15-year-old phenom from Russia, won the womens singles title, scoring 198.23 points after a virtually flawless long program. "Im never really thinking about winning, when I have won something," said Lipnitskaia -- who may be 15, but could pass for 12. "For me, you have to go on, you have to continue to work, you can not remain in the same place, you have to move forward all the time." Akiko Suzuki claimed the silver with 193.75, while American Gracie Gold won bronze (186.65). Amelie Lacoste of Delson, Que., was fifth. The young skater, who burst onto the international scene last season when she won Skate Canada, had only returned to the ice three weeks ago after being in a walking cast with her foot injury. She and coach Ravi Walia only made the decision last week to compete at Skate Canada. She will receive treatment at home in Edmonton, and hopes to be recovered in time to compete at Cup of Russia in four weeks. "Im sure it will recover quickly -- thats what Im hoping for anyways -- and Ill be ready for the rest of the season," Osmond said. "Thats what I know Ill be able to do, Ill come back and Ill recover from this and Ill get back to my training. I know I have done it, Ive done it coming back from my ankle injury, and Ill be ready to go to Russia." Osmond, last years Skate Canada champion, announced her decision moments before the women skated their long program Saturday. Julia Lipnitskaia, a 15-year-old from Russia, won the womens singles event. Rick Tocchet Jersey . The Broncos quarterback earned the offensive award Wednesday after passing for 374 yards and three touchdowns in a 37-21 win over the Raiders Monday night. Manning completed 32-of-37 passes and had a passer rating of 135. Pittsburgh Penguins Pro Shop . Yoenis Cespedes proved he can play through a hurting right heel, giving Scott Kazmir and the As a spark with a pair of RBIs that helped spoil the Minnesota Twins home opener with an 8-3 victory on Monday. https://www.cheappenguinsjersey.com/1881...penguins.html.Y. -- The Montreal Canadiens have had few reasons to celebrate this season as they have been mired near the basement of the Eastern Conference. Ab McDonald Jersey . Left back Armero opened the scoring in the fifth minute when his deflected shot rolled past Greece goalkeeper Orestis Karnezis. Striker Teofilo Gutierrez poked in Colombias second goal from a deflected corner in the 58th and James Rodriguez capped it off with a low shot in stoppage time after a slick backheel flick from Juan Cuadrado. Syl Apps Jr. Jersey .40 metres at the Drake Relays. Drouin, from Corunna, Ont., bested his own record of 2.38 metres set in Aug.BERLIN -- Borussia Moenchengladbach came from a goal down to beat Hamburger SV 3-1 on Sunday and leave the visiting side second from bottom in the Bundesliga. Jacques Zoua opened the scoring with a header from Hakan Calhanoglus free kick in the 28th minute, but Hamburg defender Michael Manciennes hand-ball gave Gladbach the lifeline of a penalty eight minutes later. Marc-Andre ter Stegen saved Filip Daems spot kick only for the Belgian defender to tuck away the rebound. Hamburg goalkeeper Rene Adler made two crucial saves to maintain parity before the break. But two goals in three minutes decided the game. In the 75th, Max Kruse controlled the ball with his chest and took it beyond two defenders for Raffael to round Adler and score, before Alvaro Dominguez made sure of the result with a header from a corner. Moenchengladbach reclaimed sixth place while Hamburg is just two points above bottom side Eintracht Braunschweig, and behind 16th-placed Stuttgart on goal difference. "We know what its like to play well and leave with nothing," said Gladbach sporting director Max Eberl, whose side only narrowly escaped relegation in 2011. "Hamburg did very well. They created good goal chances, made it really difficult.dddddddddddd" Gladbach announced after the game that it had signed Andre Hahn from league rival Augsburg. The attacking midfielder signed a four-year deal effective from next season. Sebastian Proedls last-minute header earned Werder Bremen a 2-1 win at Hannover later Sunday, lifting his side eight points above the relegation zone. Szabolcs Huszti had given Hannover a 42nd-minute lead with a free kick that went through the Bremen wall. The visitors had been much the better side in the first half. Hannover improved but Bremen equalized on a counterattack in the 57th, when Eljero Elia set up Franco di Santos third goal of the campaign. Both sides had chances in a hectic finale before Proedls decisive header after a corner lifted Bremen above Hannover in the table. There was a short hold up in the second half while referee Markus Schmidt received attention for a muscular problem with his right leg. On Saturday, referee Michael Weiner was unable to continue after rupturing the Achilles tendon in his right heel during Borussia Dortmunds game at Stuttgart. Bayern Munich clinched the Bundesliga title in record time the previous Tuesday. ' ' '

The Washington Capitals solidified their front office and coaching positions on Monday, with assistant general manager Brian MacLellan promoted to the GMs office and former Nashville Predators coach Barry Trotz taking over behind the bench. MacLellan is entering his third season with the club, spending the last two as assistant general manager after spending several years with the teams AHL-affiliate Hershey Bears. MacLellan spent 10 years in the NHL as a player, including winning the 1989 Stanley Cup with the Calgary Flames. He becomes the sixth GM in team history. "We are extremely pleased to name Brian MacLellan the teams general manager and welcome Barry Trotz to Washington as the Capitals coach,” said owner Ted Leonsis in a release. “After conducting an extensive search for a general manager, we determined that Brian was the best candidate to help us reach our ultimate goal, winning the Stanley Cup. We have witnessed his abilities firsthand, and we have tremendous respect for how he manages people and situations. We feel he has relevant, in-depth knowledge of the strengths and weaknesses of our franchise and will be forceful in addressing them. Brian always has displayed tremendous professionalism, passion and commitment to the Capitals. He has his own unique approach, and we are confident in his abilities to lead this organization to new heights." McLellan is also looking forward to assuming his new position. “I am extremely honored and excited about the opportunity I have been given with the Capitals,” said MacLellan in a release. “Over the course of my career I have worked in acquiring the necessary skills to excel in this position. We have built a solid foundation, and I look forward to implementing my ideas to get us back to competing for the Stanley Cup. Also, it is a great pleasure to welcome Barry to Washington as the new head coach of the Capitals. Barrys teams have always played with structure, discipline and intensity, and I look forward to him leading us to success for many years to come.” Trotz was fired by the Nashville Predators at the end of the season after 16 years as the only head coach in franchise history. Trotz coached 1,196 games with Nashville, second only to Gregg Popovich of the NBAs San Antonio Spurs for longest active coaching tenure in the four major sports. Trotz says he welcomes his new challenge. “I am very excited to join the Washington Capitals and want to thank Ted Leonsis, Dick Patrick and Brian MacLellan for this opportunity,” said Trotz in the release. “This is a great organization with a strong foundation and a tremendous fan base. I look forward to working with this group of talented players and the quality front office staff this team has assembled.” Trotz is the only NHL coach to make the playoffs with the same team in seven of eight seasons between 2003-04 and 2011-12 and becomes the Capitals 17th head coach. The Capitals fired head coach Adam Oates and did not renew the contract of general manager George McPhee at the end of the season after the team missed the playoffs with a record of 38-30-14. Arizona Diamondbacks Gear .com) - Delon Wright made all 12 of his free throws and finished with 21 points and six assists as No. Tony Womack Jersey . -- Jay Haas and Peter Jacobsen took the second-round lead Saturday in the Champions Tours Legends of Golf, teaming for a 6-under 48 in windy conditions on the par-3 Top of the Rock course. https://www.cheapdiamondbacksjerseys.us/...amondbacks.html. The Flames are in the midst of a six-game slide (0-5-1), their longest losing streak since an 0-6-3 skid from Jan. 11-28, 2010. They havent won since Nov. 3 in Chicago and most recently went winless on a three-game homestand. Andrew Chafin Jersey . Rangers goalie Henrik Lundqvist stood tall with 41 saves between the pipes, but it was defenceman Ryan McDonagh who got the first star of the game as he had a goal and an assist and now has two goals and four assists for six points in two games. Matt Mantei Jersey . Webb birdied the 18th hole to take the outright lead, then watched as Choi, who shot a course-record 62 on Saturday to take a share of the third-round lead, pushed a 10-foot putt wide of the hole at 18 to miss the chance for a playoff.While NHL Central Scoutings mid-term draft ranking has Kingston Frontenacs centre Sam Bennett topping the list of North American skaters, TSN Director of Scouting Craig Button is standing pat with the other Sam. His January edition of Craigs List has Kootenay Ice centre Sam Reinhart at No. 1 for the fourth straight month. Reinhart represented Canada at the 2014 World Junior Hockey Championship, and tied for fourth in team scoring with two goals and five points in seven games. "Sam Reinhart will never wow you with flash and dash and may never even end up on TSNs HON but if you are looking for a player who can make a difference to winning, then look no further," explains Button. "He has exceptional hockey sense but more than his understanding is his adaptability. That trait allows him to play different positions, all situations in the game and combined with a high skill level, affords him the opportunity to excel. He makes teammates better by helping them play to their strengths. He make teams better with a selfless approach that is focused on overall success, not personal accolades. "Because his mind is so quick and so fast at processing, he is able to play two and three steps ahead of the competition. When I watch Sam, I think, still waters run deep and his ability to quietly control a game doesnt create waves but it certainly leads to winning." Aaron Ekblad, who also played for Canada at the world, continues to be a mainstay in the second spot. He grabbed headlines in the Ontario Hockey League this past weekend, scoring four goals (three on the power play and one shorthanded) as the Barrie Colts hammered Bennetts Frontenacs 8-5 on Saturday. "Ekblad is a pillar-type defenceman," says Button. "To be this type of a defenceman, one needs to possess an on-ice maturity. That maturity is reflected in understanding how to excel when playing 25 minutes orr more versus the opponents best players in critical and important situations.dddddddddddd "Aaron combines that maturity with an excellent understanding of what needs to be accomplished at any particular point of the game. He has an outstanding ability to play in the moment and that can manifest itself defensively, offensively and physically. He takes the initiative and is unwavering in his approach to being a catalyst for making things happen in the game that help his team win." Bennett is also holding strong on the list, rounding out the Top 3 for the third straight month. The biggest riser on the list for January is Czech-born forward David Pastrnak, who jumped 16 spots from No. 26 to tenth. He has scored seven goals and 21 points in 29 games with Sodertalje in Sweden this season and tallied three points in five games with the Czech Republic at the world juniors. "When I first saw David Pastrnak play more than two years ago, I was impressed by a willingness to try and make things happen with the puck from an offensive point of view," explains Button. "While at times coming a little short, he never was short on determination or being a player in the middle of the competitive action. He has confidence with the puck, excellent sense and feel and his skating allows him to play the game with speed and with a quick and darting ability that makes him very difficult to keep in check. "As he has physically matured, he doesnt fall short very much any longer and he shows the ability and potential to be a player who can impact the game offensively in multiple ways and be the threat opponents have to be aware of." Craig Buttons monthly Craigs List ranking is released each month from September through June. TSN Hockey Insider Bob McKenzies mid-term draft ranking - a consensus list from several NHL scouts – will be released on TSN.ca on Jan. 23. ' ' '

The run-up to Thursdays NFL draft has been one of the most intriguing in years, with the first and second picks having already been traded. Players have seen their draft stock plummet, a number for concerns off the field, as teams prepare their boards and fine tune their plans for the big night in Chicago.Ill be live blogging the event into the early hours of Friday morning, with help from Alex Ferguson (@viewfromamerica) so I thought I would put together my prediction of how things will go. So here goes with my first round mock draft - all of this assuming no more trades are made:1 Los Angeles Rams - Jared Goff (QB - California)The Rams return to Los Angeles this season and make the Cal quarterback the face of their franchise for the future. Who cares if his hands are a little small and hes not actually the best player in the draft?2 Philadelphia Eagles - Carson Wentz (QB - North Dakota)Wentz might be a better professional prospect than Goff, but its tight between the two. The Eagles have given up plenty for this pick and they have to pray the small-school man works out for them.In whatever order, it appears Goff and Wentz will go one and two…then things get interesting and somewhat less predictable.3. San Diego Chargers - Laremy Tunsil (OT - Mississippi)The quarterback hype-train enables San Diego to get the best, but least sexy, player in the draft. Philip Rivers will love this pick as will whoever eventually takes over from him. Offensive lineman Laremy Tunsil of Ole Miss participates in a drill during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine 4. Dallas Cowboys - Jalen Ramsey (CB - Florida State)Possibly the best defensive player in the draft and one the Cowboys probably cant avoid taking. Their choice likely comes down to Ramsey and Joey Bosa, who would help them cover a couple of possible suspensions.5. Jacksonville Jaguars - Joey Bosa (DE - Ohio State)Bosa was dominant in college and the Jaguars, who have improved in most areas through free agency, do still need a big pass rusher. The Buckeye ticks most of the boxes.6. Baltimore Ravens - Myles Jack (LB - UCLA) Not many elite middle linebackers in this draft, but Jack fits the bill. The big concern for teams drafting him are his knee issues, but Jack pairing up with CJ Mosley would make the Ravens defence one to fear again. Linebacker Myles Jack of the UCLA Bruins 7. San Francisco 49ers - Ronnie Stanley (OT - Notre Dame)The 49ers have plenty of needs, but pass protection could be No 1 after a dreadful 2015 season for supposed star QB Colin Kaepernick. He might not even start this season, but whoever does will need a player like Stanley looking after them. Richard Graves Mock Draft Richard Graves is in Chicago for Sky Sports, running the rule over the 2016 NFL Draft class and wher 8. Cleveland Browns - Ezekiel Elliott (RB - Ohio State) Many expect the Browns to trade further down the draft but should they stand pat, adding a potential franchise running back would have to be the call. They would have a triple threat from their backfield with him, pass catching threat Duke Johnson and quarterback Robert Griffin III (if he can still run).9. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Vernon Hargreaves (CB - Florida) There seems to be consensus that the Bucs will target secondary help with this pick and the Gators prospect is not rated too far behind Jalen Ramsey in a decent cornerback class. Defensive back Vernon Hargreaves of Florida 10. New York Giants - Leonard Floyd (OLB - Georgia) The Giants will look for pass rushing help and Floyd fits the bill as a hybrid, who could play downs on the front line or as an outside linebacker. He bulked up ahead of the scouting combines after criticism of a lack of power at times.11. Chicago Bears - DeForest Buckner (DE - Oregon)An elite edge rusher dropping to 11 would be ideal for the Bears, who could also look at Floyd if Buckner has already gone, even though their need at linebacker decreased through free agency signings of Danny Trevathan and Jerrell Freeman. NFL Draft: Beginners guide From crucial quarterbacks, to blockbuster trades and tears on the telephone, heres our essential gu 12. New Orleans Saints - Sheldon Rankins (DT - Louisville)The Saints were a hot mess on defence last season and have to rebuild there. Rankins is absolutely huge and should immediately be an every down player helping them against the pass and run.13. Miami Dolphins - Eli Apple (CB - Ohio State)The Dolphins will hope that Elliott drops in their lap, but it seems unlikely unless they can move up a few slots. Their secondary was distinctly second-rate last season so this kind of pick could well bear fruit (sorry, couldnt resist!). Eli Apple (L) of the Ohio State Buckeyes breaks up a pass intended for Amara Darboh #82 of the Michigan Wolverines 14. Oakland Raiders - William Jackson III (CB - Houston) Jackson has been a draft bolter in recent months and could find a nice home in Oakland, where much is expected of an improved team. They added Reggie Nelson and Sean Smith in free agency and Jackson would provide further quality in an area they struggled last year.15. Tennessee Titans - Jack Conklin (OT - Michigan State)The Titans started to rebuild with QB Marcus Mariota last year, and they have traded down from the No 1 slot to land a number of picks in this draft. With this pick they could add someone, in Conklin, who can help protect their star asset.16. Detroit Lions - Shaq Lawson (DE - Clemson)The Lions have offensive line needs as well, but if Lawson drops he will be tough to pass on. Would form an excellent double punch with the under-rated Ziggy Ansah. Lawson out to seize NFL chance In the first of our series of interviews ahead of the 2016 NFL Draft, Shaq Lawson tells us about his 17. Atlanta Falcons - Darron Lee (OLB - Ohio State)Yet another Buckeye could come off the board here with the Falcons in desperate need at linebacker. Hes very quick and athletic, and would be a good complement to last years early pick Vic Beasley.18. Indianapolis Colts - Taylor Decker (OT - Ohio State) Five first-round Buckeyes and counting. Decker is a very good run-blocker, a great pile-pusher and would really give a boost to the all-new Titans running game, of course now featuring DeMarco Murray.19. Buffalo Bills - Paxton Lynch (QB - Memphis) This is my pick should there be no trades but a few teams really like Lynch, some more so than the likely top two selections, and could easily trade up to snag him before now. If not the Bills get a fine quarterback to take over from Tyrod Taylor, perhaps as early as opening day. Paxton Lynch of the Memphis Tigers 20. New York Jets - Reggie Ragland (ILB - Alabama) The Jets are probably #1 candidate to trade up for Lynch, making this pick something of a lottery. Should they get stuck without their new franchise QB, then Ragland would make up for the loss of Demario Davis to Cleveland.21. Washington Redskins - Laquon Treadwell (WR - Mississippi) The Redskins could easily go front-line defence here (AShawn Robinson or Jarran Reed) but Treadwell would give them a huge receiver for the future, which will likely start without one of DeSean Jackson and Pierre Garcon in 2017. Both veterans are free agents next year.22. Houston Texans - Corey Coleman (WR - Baylor)Expect a rush on wide receivers in this part of the first round, with the Texans adding the perfect complement for DeAndre Hopkins. Tight end a possible here as well, but top-rated Hunter Henry could be something of a reach, and Colemans speed is a real asset. Corey Coleman of the Baylor Bears 23. Minnesota Vikings - Josh Doctson (WR - TCU) Another wideout comes off the board, and this one might have most impact in season one. Hes got great hands, but would probably prefer to land somewhere with a better quarterback situation than Minneapolis, where there is also a new stadium effect to throw in.24. Cincinnati Bengals - Will Fuller (WR - Notre Dame)You guessed it, wide receiver again. These last four picks could easily be inter-changeable. Fuller is a similar player to Coleman, with speed a huge asset, and that would probably help open up some space for AJ Green and Tyler Eifert.25. Pittsburgh Steelers - Artie Burns (CB - Miami)The Steelers need help in the secondary more than anywhere else. They would love for Jackson or Apple to fall this far, and it is possible, but if not Burns would be a handy addition. Artie Burns of the Miami Hurricanes rushes during a game against the Florida Atlantic Owls 26. Seattle Seahawks - Robert Nkemdiche (DT - Mississippi)On pure talent Nkemdiche belongs much higher in the draft, but hes had…lets just call them issues away from football and carries risk with him. But whats not to like about a guy who wants to buy a panther if he is drafted in the first round?27. Green Bay Packers - Andrew Billings (NT - Baylor)Billings is a big body and size up front is something the Packers really need. Jarran Reed would also be a target here, although Billings projects as a better fit. NFL Draft: Top pick QBs A quarterback is set to be selected No 1 in the 2016 Draft, so we take a closer look at some previou 28. Kansas City Chiefs - Kevin Dodd (DE - Clemson)The Chiefs improved a great deal last year and another pass rusher could just push them over the edge in terms of a Super Bowl run. Dodds stock has risen all year, and it could even see him taken earlier than this, but if hes available Id expect the Chiefs to pounce.29. Arizona Cardinals - AShawn Robinson (DT - Alabama) Predictions for Robinson have been all over the board, from just outside the top 10 to not being picked in the first round at all. But I could see Arizona taking a chance on him if he drops, and run stuffing was one of their few issues last season. AShawn Robinson (R) of the Alabama Crimson Tide 30. Carolina Panthers - Jason Spriggs (OT - Indiana) Spriggs proved an excellent pass protector in college, and keeping Cam Newton safe should be one of Carolinas chief concerns this season. Hes still got a bit to learn on the technical side of the game, which is fair since he came through high school playing tight end.31. Denver Broncos - Connor Cook (QB - Michigan State)Predictions for the Broncos are all over the board, but the Super Bowl champions desperately need a quarterback to mould for the future, assuming they dont think Trevor Siemian is it. Cook is a winner, and he can run as well, and its doubtful he would last to the end of the second - a reach, but probably worth it. Quarterback Connor Cook of Michigan State speaks to the media during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine Also See: Richard Graves Mock Draft Shaq Lawson exclusive interview NFL Draft: Beginners guide NFL Draft: Previous No1 QB picks Phil Garner Jersey . Halak did not get the start in the Washington Capitals Tuesday night game against the St. Rube Waddell Jersey . -- Victor Bernardez tied the game with his second goal in the 95th minute and the San Jose Earthquakes drew 3-3 with Real Salt Lake on Saturday night. https://www.cheappiratesjerseys.us/582e-...ey-pirates.html. Pedroia reached the milestone with a little panache, hitting a grand slam in the sixth inning and propelling the Boston Red Sox to a 7-1 win over the Oakland Athletics on Friday night. Rennie Stennett Jersey .C. - The Panthers will be without starting defensive tackle Star Lotulelei for Saturday nights NFC divisional playoff game against Seattle after undergoing surgery Wednesday to repair a broken bone in his foot. Bobby Bonilla Jersey . The Canucks figured to be active prior to Wednesdays trade deadline, getting a jump on things the previous day when they dealt goaltender Roberto Luongo to the Florida Panthers for netminder Jacob Markstrom and forward Shawn Matthias.Cincinnati, OH (SportsNetwork.com) - LeVeon Bell ran for the go-ahead touchdown and Ben Roethlisberger hit Martavis Bryant for a 94-yard score during Pittsburghs big fourth quarter in a 42-21 victory over the AFC North- leading Cincinnati Bengals. Bell finished with 26 carries for 185 yards and two TDs, both in the final quarter, when the Steelers (8-5) outscored the Bengals, 25-0. Bell also had a touchdown reception, and Roethlisberger completed 25-of-39 passes for 350 yards and three scores to guide the Steelers to their fifth win in the last seven games. Andy Dalton finished 21-of-29 for 302 yards and a pair of scores for the Bengals (8-4-1), who had a three-game winning streak broken. A.J. Green caught 11 passes for a career- best 224 yards and a score. With Baltimore (8-5) winning at Miami and Cleveland (7-6) losing at home to Indianapolis Sunday, there is a crush in the division standings. The schedule is tough for both teams over the final three games. The Bengals play at Cleveland before hosting Denver on a Monday night, then conclude the season in Pittsburgh. The Steelers play at Atlanta then host Kansas City before what could be a giant encounter against the Bengals. Final Score: Indianapolis 25, Cleveland 24 Cleveland, OH (SportsNetwork.com) - Andrew Lucks 1-yard touchdown pass to T.Y. Hilton with 32 seconds left in the fourth quarter rallied the Indianapolis Colts to a 25-24 victory over the Cleveland Browns. The Colts (9-4) won their third straight game to inch closer to the AFC South title, while dealing the Browns (7-6) a heart-breaking defeat after they blew a two- touchdown lead. Luck connected on 24-of-53 throws for 294 yards with two scores and a pair of interceptions, both to Hilton, who had 10 catches for 150 yards. The Colts hold a two-game lead on Houston and can win the division with a home victory against the Texans next Sunday. The Browns had a pair of defensive TDs, but lost their second straight for the first time this season. It was a perfect opportunity for Cleveland to gain ground in the AFC North, especially with Cincinnati (8-4-1) falling at home to Pittsburgh (8-5) Sunday. The Ravens (8-5) won in Miami. Brian Hoyer finished 14-of-31 for 140 yards with two interceptions for the Browns. Final Score: Detroit 34, Tampa Bay 17 Detroit, MI (SportsNetwork.com) - Matthew Stafford had three touchdown passes, and Joique Bell scored twice as the Detroit Lions pounded the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 34-17, at Ford Field on Sunday. Stafford went 26-for-34 for 311 yards with touchdown passes to Bell, Calvin Johnson and Joseph Fauria for the Lions (9-4), who have won two straight after consecutive road losses. Johnson finished the game with eight catches for 158 yards, while Bell had 18 carries for 83 yards and a rushing touchdown while adding five catches for 50 yards for Detroit. The Lions are still in the hunt for the top spot in the NFC North, as the team sits a half-game back of the Packers for first place. Green Bay hosts Atlanta on Monday night. Josh McCown was under pressure all day as he was sacked six times and took several hard hits. He completed 20-for-39 passes for 250 yards with two touchdown passes, but he was picked off twice and also lost a fumble. Vincent Jackson caught 10 passes for 159 yards, and Mike Evans caught both touchdown passes for the Buccaneers (2-11), who have lost their last three games. Final Score: Houston 27, Jacksonville 13 Jacksonville, FL (SportsNetwork.com) - Arian Foster ran for 127 yards and a touchdown and helped the Houston Texans stay in the playoff hunt with a 27-13 victory over the Jaguars on a rainy Sunday in Jacksonville. The Texans (7-6), who earned consecutive wins for the first time since starting the season 2-0, still sit two games behind the AFC South-leading Colts but can make up ground with a visit to Indianapolis next week. They trailed 13-10 at halftime but scored 17 unanswered points as their defense -- led by J.J. Watts three sacks -- limited Jacksonville to 73 yards after the break. Ryan Fitzpatrick only threw 19 times and finished with 135 yards through the air but did run for a touchdown. One of his favorite targets, Andre Johnson, exited early in the second quarter with a concussion. Blake Bortles and the Jaguars (2-11) failed to build off last weeks 25-24 come-from-behind victory over the Giants. Bortles completed only 20-of-39 passes for 205 yards with a touchdown and an interception. Final Score: Baltimore 28, Miami 13 Miami, FL (SportsNetwork.com) - Joe Flacco threw two touchdown passes and ran for another score as the visiting Baltimore Ravens overcame a sluggish start to post a 28-13 victory over the Miami Dolphins in a crucial AFC matchup. Flacco was 25-of-33 for 269 yards and Justin Forsett added a rushing touchdown for the Ravens (8-5), who kept pace in the AFC North race. They are tied with Pittsburgh behind division-leading Cincinnati, which stands at 8-4-1. Ryan Tannehill finished 23-of-33 for 227 yards and a touchdown for a Miami (7-6) team that entered the game owning the AFCs second wild-card spot due to tiebreakers. Final Score: Minnesota 30, NY Jets 24 (OT) Minneapolis, MN (SportsNetwork.com) - Jarius Wright turned a screen pass into a winning 87-yard touchdown in overtime, lifting the Minnesota Vikings over the New York Jets 30-24 on Sunday. Facing a 3rd-and-5 on his teams first possession of overtime, Vikings quarterback Teddy Bridgewater threw a pass to Wright behind the line of scrimmage. Wright got the first down and proceeded to beat the Jets defense down the sideline to win the game. Bridgewater completed 19-of-27 passes for 309 yards and a pair of touchdowns with an interception to lead the Vikings (6-7) to their second straight win.dddddddddddd Wright finished with 123 yards on four catches, and Charles Johnson also scored with four catches for 103 yards. Matt Asiata led Minnesota with 54 rushing yards and linebacker Gerald Hodges returned an interception for a touchdown for the first score of the game. Geno Smith threw for 254 yards, a touchdown and an interception for the Jets (2-11), who have lost three in a row. Percy Harvin caught six passes for 124 yards and a touchdown against his former team and Eric Decker added 89 yards on six catches for the Jets. Chris Ivory ran for 73 yards on 16 carries, and Chris Johnson finished the day with 16 carries for 53 yards. Final Score: Carolina 41, New Orleans 10 New Orleans, LA (SportsNetwork.com) - Cam Newton had a hand in four of Carolinas five touchdowns, as the Panthers walked into the Superdome and embarrassed the New Orleans Saints by a 41-10 count on Sunday. Newton passed for 226 yards and three touchdowns on 21-of-33 efficiency and rushed for 83 yards and another score on 12 carries for the Panthers (4-8-1), who suddenly find themselves back in the race for the NFC South crown. Jonathan Stewart racked up a game-best 155 yards on the ground with a TD on 20 attempts, while Greg Olsen was Newtons top target with 10 receptions for 72 yards and a touchdown. Drew Brees was contained for most of the contest, but threw for 235 yards and a score to Benjamin Watson for the Saints (5-8), who hadnt lost four in a row at home since 1999 -- Mike Ditkas final season as head coach. Marques Colston totaled 72 yards on five catches, while the rushing tandem of Mark Ingram and Pierre Thomas was limited to 81 yards on 15 combined carries. Final Score: NY Giants 36, Tennessee 7 Nashville, TN (SportsNetwork.com) - Rookie Andre Williams rushed for a career- high 131 yards, much of it on a 50-yard touchdown run that helped the New York Giants snap a seven-game losing streak with a 36-7 win over the Tennessee Titans on Sunday. Something had to give between the two teams, who came into the game with 13 consecutive losses between them. While the Giants (4-9) ended their skid, the Titans (2-11) remained winless since Oct. 12, losing seven in a row for the first time since an 11-game slide in 1994 when they were the Houston Oilers. Eli Manning threw for 260 yards with a 15-yard touchdown pass to rising star Odell Beckham Jr., who had had 11 catches for 130 yards. Much of New Yorks scoring came on five Josh Brown field goals and a defensive touchdown from Markus Kuhn, who returned a Zach Mettenberger fumble. Mettenberger re-injured his sprained right shoulder in the fourth quarter after going 14-of-24 for 125 yards. Jake Locker relieved him for the second week in a row and also threw a pick. Marqueston Huff scored the only Tennessee points on a 23-yard interception return in the third quarter. Final Score: St. Louis 24, Washington 0 Landover, MD (SportsNetwork.com) - Michael Brockers, Janoris Jenkins, Alec Ogletree and Greg Robinson were in the St. Louis Rams starting lineup. Robert Griffin III was still on the Washington Redskins bench, at least for the first 58 minutes. Shaun Hill tossed a pair of touchdown passes to Jared Cook and the Rams blanked the Redskins 24-0 on Sunday afternoon to record their second straight shutout win. After Tavon Austins 78-yard punt return staked the Rams to a 24-0 advantage late in the third quarter, chants of RGIII, RGIII, RGIII, reverberated throughout FedEx Field. Griffin, though, never got the call until two minutes remained after Colt McCoy departed with a neck strain. Brockers, Jenkins, Ogletree and Robinson were among the slew of players the Rams received from their 2012 blockbuster trade with Washington. Hill was 16-of-22 for 213 yards, while Cook hauled in four passes for 61 yards for St. Louis (6-7), which posted back-to-back shutouts for the first time since 1945. The Rams blanked Oakland 52-0 last Sunday. The defense recorded seven sacks, two interceptions and eight tackles for loss in the triumph. Pierre Garcon tallied nine receptions for 95 yards for the Redskins (3-10), who have dropped five games in a row. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4 Final Score: Dallas 41, Chicago 28 Chicago, IL (SportsNetwork.com) - The Dallas Cowboys stayed perfect on the road and ended a three-game losing streak to the Chicago Bears by getting the ball to DeMarco Murray every chance they could. Murray had 41 touches and gained 228 yards from scrimmage as the Cowboys shook off a demoralizing division loss on Thanksgiving to beat the Bears 41-28 on Thursday night. There was no relief for the Bears, who lost not only the game, but also star wide receiver Brandon Marshall, who was taken away from Soldier Field in an ambulance after suffering an injury to his ribs in the first half, though he tweeted later that he was OK. Murray, the NFLs leading rusher, followed last years 146-yard effort against the Bears with 179 yards and a touchdown on 32 carries and added 49 yards on nine catches. Tony Romo had three touchdown passes -- two to Cole Beasley -- and earned his eighth career win in Thursday games as he and the Cowboys bounced back from a 33-10 loss to NFC East rival Philadelphia by winning in Chicago for the first time since 2007. Their loss a week ago came at home, of course, giving the Eagles the division lead for at least a week. Its on the road where the Cowboys (9-4) have thrived this season, going 6-0. Matt Forte and Jay Cutler rushed for touchdowns in the fourth quarter -- Cutler after an onside kick, cutting a 25-point Dallas lead to 10. But the Bears (5-8) lost for the second week in a row after falling in Detroit on Thanksgiving. ' ' '

HALIFAX - After a year that saw Canada host three UFC shows instead of a planned five, the UFC is still planning its 2015 schedule.But UFC Canada boss Tom Wright sees two to three annual pay-per-view shows in future, augmented by several smaller Fight Night televised cards.In 2014, Canada was slated to hold pay-per-view shows in Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver (UFC 174 on June 14) with Fight Night shows in Quebec City (April 16) and Halifax (Saturday). UFC 178, slated for Toronto in September, was shifted to Las Vegas while the December Montreal show was scrapped.The UFC is a month away from finalizing its complete 2015 schedule yet but there are some Canadian clues.The UFC has a March date reserved at the Bell Centre so Montreal should get its card. And Toronto, having lost its 2014 show, is also expected to host a 2015 show with several dates reserved at the Air Canada Centre.The first foray into Atlantic Canada has been a home run, with between 10,000 and 11,000 fans expected at the soldout Scotiabank Centre. The gate is expected to exceed $1 million.This is a good example of why were excited about our sport across the country, Wright said Thursday. Because you come to a town like Halifax and theres a real buzz in the city, which is great.Canada is a good fit for the smaller Fight Night televised cards and Wright hopes to bring one to Saskatchewan, either Regina or Saskatoon, next year.I think it will do as well as weve done here, Wright said.Wright is also interested in bringing future televised shows to St. Johns, Moncton, Hamilton, Ottawa, London and Windsor, among others.He also says he will lobby to bring a pay-per-view to Edmonton once the new area is built. And Quebec City wants the UFC to come back, this time to its new arena.The 12-fight Halifax card features nine Canadian fighters, as well as athletes from 10 different birth countries: Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, Cuba, France, Ireland, Nigeria, Russia and the U.S.Thats pretty cool, said Wright, who also oversees UFC operations in Australia and New Zealand.Halifax is the seventh Canadian city to host a UFC show, joining Calgary, Montreal, Quebec City, Toronto, Winnipeg and Vancouver. Saturday will mark the UFCs 17th Canadian show since 2008. Welterweight Rory (Ares) MacDonald, a native of Kelowna, B.C., who trains in Montreal, takes on American-based Belgian Tarec (Sponge) Saffiedine in Saturdays main event.Wright has been on the move since joining the UFC. He leaves for Australia at the end of the month, his 10th trip Down Under in two years.He is also working on a new TV deal for the UFC in Canada, with Rogers Sportsnets agreement expiring at the end of the year.We are in negotiations, still with them as well, but with various partners, he said.NOTES a€” Newfoundland and Labrador, and P.E.I. are the only provinces without athletic commissions, according to Wright. The UFC could hold self-regulated shows there but would prefer to work with a local commission.Follow @NeilMDavidson on Twitter Jose Urena Jersey . Tampa Bay Buccaneers RB Doug Martin broke the news that hes cleared for full activity moving forward. Moises Alou Jersey . Pinch-hitter Tommy Medica singled in the go-ahead run in the eighth inning and the Padres beat the Seattle Mariners 2-1 in their first home game since Gwynn died of cancer Monday. https://www.cheapmarlinsjerseys.us/1461r...ey-marlins.html. -- The Sacramento Kings and guard Jimmer Fredette have completed a buyout of his contract, clearing the way for the former BYU sensation to become a free agent. Monte Harrison Jersey . A person familiar with the decision told The Associated Press the Steelers will part ways with the former Pro Bowler, a move that hardly serves as a surprise after fifth-year linebacker Jason Worilds agreed to accept a "transition player" tag last week. Todd Dunwoody Jersey .com) - The disappointing Ottawa Senators hope to record consecutive wins for the first time since early November, as they visit the Boston Bruins on Friday for the opener of a home-and-home series.It doesnt look like the Ottawa Senators will have forward Ales Hemsky in the fold for next season. TSN Hockey Insider Bob McKenzie tweeted on Monday that Hemsky will be going to market as an unrestricted free agent on July 1. According to McKenzie, Hemsky rejected a three-year, $10 million contract offer and the Senators are now prepared to trade his free agent rights for a draft pick. Hemsky was acquired by the Senators at the trade deadline after spending the ffirst 11 seasons of his career with the Edmonton Oilers.dddddddddddd In 75 games with the Oilers and Senators in 2013-14, Hemsky scored 13 goals and added 30 assists. Hes coming off a two-year contract that paid him an annual average of $5 million. The 30-year-old forward has 146 goals and 348 assists for 494 points over 672 career games in the NHL. Hemsky, a native of Czech Republic, was drafted by Edmonton 13th overall at the 2001 NHL Entry Draft. ' ' '