Freep.com: Dupree's hustle earns playing time

Helene St. James wrote a nice column on Ronald Dupree in today's Free Press.

PISTONS CORNER: Dupree's hustle earns playing time

-Dan Joseph

Preview - NBA - Detroit Pistons at Portland Trailblazers

The Pistons head west to challenge the Blazers tonight.

Keys to the Game:

1. Solid Billups Shooting
2. Protect the Perimeter
3. Consistency

Prediction: Pistons 85, Portland 80

NBA.com: Portland at Detroit

-Dan Joseph

Preview - NCF - Delaware at Michigan State

MSU will host Delaware today. MSU is hoping for more solid play from Paul Davis. Davis has been up and down throughout his career with MSU, often falling under the criticism of Tom Izzo.

Prediction: Delaware 55, MSU 80

MSUSpartans.com: Men's Basketball Hosts Delaware State On Saturday

-Dan Joseph

Preview - NCF - Michigan Wolverines at UCLA Bruins

The wounded Wolverines head out west to take on UCLA.

Defense, Shooting, and Harris will be the key.

Prediction: UCLA 75, Michigan 65

MGOBlue.com: Game Notes

-Dan Joseph

Tigers, Drew Near Deal?

It has been reported that J.D. Drew is nearing a five year, $55 million deal with the Detroit Tigers. Although I'm not going to personally get excited about this, please feel free. The Tigers have been "near" deals with Glaus, Finley, and Pavano, and have only been disappointed in the end.

If Drew signs, they should be able to fill atleast 120-140 games worth of good solid hitting and outfielding. Drew has been the talk of short seasons, and high price tags. Personally, I say if they can sign him, go for it. What can the Tigers lose? Insure the contract, take a risk. It's better than what we have now.

Would you sign? For less maybe? Not at all? Comments welcomed.

-Dan Joseph

Saban's Fish Dinner On Hold

Earlier we reported that Nick Saban was going to the Dolphins. It seems there is a temporary hold in all negotiations until the Dolphins comply with the NFL rule that states you must follow their set process. This process includes the interviewing of minority candidates.

This reminds me of Matt Millen and his quest for Mariucci. Millen was fined $200,000 by the league.

ESPN.com - NFL - Hitting pause: Miami not signing Saban just yet

-Dan Joseph

Saban Swins With Fish?

Former MSU, and current LSU, head football coach Nick Saban will be offered a $4 million per year contract to take over as head football coach of the Miami Dolphins. Saban has been eyed in several NFL head coach positions, including a meeting last year with the Chicago Bears.

My take...

Saban left MSU to get away from the U of M and Ohio State dominated Big Ten conference. At LSU he was able to build a championship program, win a national title, and gain recognition as a quality head football coach. Last year, speculation had him going to the Chicago Bears; however, it looks like he decided to see if he could win two in a row. With that not done, look for Saban to dash to the NFL.

CollegeSpotrs.com: Dolphins To Make Offer To Saban

-Dan Joseph

Pistons Take Care of LeBron

One of the bright spots of last night's Pistons win was the check and balance they put on LeBron James. James shot 4-12, and scored 11 points. After a poor first half effort (again), the Pistons came out roaring in the second half, kicking it off with a 29-10 run, that included holding Cleveland to a six point third quarter.

This is the kind of basketball that needs to be played for 48 minutes, not 24 minutes. Had they been up against a Phoenix or a Seattle, they would have not had the same opportunity to come back and win as they did. Chauncey Billups, not the only one to blame, needs to show the poise he brings during the playoffs. Step one to fixing their offense is to mold him into a 48 minute player. Rip cannot be asked to do all the scoring himself.

Freep.com: NOT AT HOME, JAMES: Pistons rescue reputation, lock down LeBron (11 pts.)

-Dan Joseph

Ice on the Stove?

They say that this is the season to be jolly. For the Detroit Tigers, that spirit is quickly diminishing. The Tigers acquired free agent pitcher Troy Percival last month, and since then have been turned down by many others. The latest disappointment came last night, when the AP announced that Adrian Beltre would sign a five year deal with the Seattle Mariners, a team that lost 99 games last year.

So what is really wrong with the Tigers this year? They say they have the money to compete in the free agent market. They’ve made fair offers to a lot of people, yet they seem to come up short each time.

One of the biggest set backs was Carl Pavano. The Tigers had reportedly offered a four year, $40 million contract to Pavano. His agent, Scott Shapiro, denied the reports. Later it was said that the Tigers tacked on a fifth year. On December 11, 2004, Carl Pavano joined the New York Yankees for $39 million over four years. If the Tigers had offered more, why did he choose New York?

It’s simple. Track record, budget, and personnel.

The Tigers have had a decade of consecutive losing seasons. They have a track record of making the wrong decisions, and railroading their “five year” plans. They’ve made poor trades, poor signings, and poor contract decisions. They’ve depleted their minor league system, and have absolutely no chance of farming a good starting pitcher anytime soon. Did Bill Ford train Mike Illitch?

Another problem is their cheaping out on their budget. They’ve held to the $45-50 million payroll ranges, while the competitive market has demanded teams spend at least $70 million to start being competitive. That’s not to say the Tigers should make like Steinbrenner, and buy everyone in site. They just need to start thinking about investing in their product better, and putting a more competitive approach to the free agent market together. Mr. Illitch, if you win, they will come, and spend money in your stadium, and cause your profits to rise.

Now don’t get me wrong, I read all about how Dombrowski has a big budget this year. Then I hear the number $60 million. Last year their payroll was around $50 million. If Dombrowski has the funds to build a Central Division contender, then why isn’t he being given a $70-$80 million budget? It just doesn’t make any sense to me.

That brings me to the Tigers’ front office and my dark, gloomy opinion of them right now. Dave Dombrowski was brought in too build a winner. Mike Illitch said he was going to fund the team for such an event. It started out really good with a 119 loss season. Criticism flew, and Illitch went into hiding with Osama bin Laden. It took an embarrassment, but the Tigers managed to sign a few guys, including Rondell White, Fernando Vina, and Pudge Rodriguez. Pudge was by far the best signing of the off-season. White and Vina disappointed us with injuries. The team went on to win 72 games. This made Detroit fans smile, and filled the stadium.

What have they done for us lately? They outbid the Yankees for Carl Pavano. They appear to have refused to pay $12 million per year for Derek Lowe, which is a good move. They tried to sign Edgar Renteria, who incidentally was “seriously considering” the Tigers, but had no mention of them when he signed his contract.

Let me try and set the record straight early. I do not completely fault Dave Dombrowski. I do not even completely fault Mike Illitch. The first person I fault is George Steinbrenner. He started this mess. The second person I blame is Donald Fehr, who is completely incompetent. Fehr runs around screaming collusion and capitalism more than anyone I’ve ever seen or heard of. He thinks that putting a $100 million salary cap on baseball is some how going to hinder his players from making a livable wage. This is complete and total nonsense. An average salary of $2.5 million per year is plenty to live off of. Inflation isn’t that out of control quite yet.

So how do the Tigers fix their situation? Keep offering, and keep trying to sign free agents. J.D. Drew is in the mix still, and you never know, he could end up signing. Is it a solid signing? It might be; however, he’s never played more than 145 games, and has averaged 121 games. What will the Tigers do for 40 games without him each season? Time will tell, I guess.

I want to now apologize for my lack of enthusiasm, and apparent gloomy mood. After reading that Adrian Beltre went to a lesser team for not much money, I was really down. Not only because of Beltre, but because of the situation with the Tigers in the off-season. Not because of one person, or one lost free agent, but because of the situation of the game. Yankees, Mets, Red Sox, Angels. Those are the four golden teams of MLB, and the only ones that will be able to compete in the free agent market until Bud Selig grows a spine.

-Dan Joseph

ESPN.com - NBA - Recap - Cleveland Cavaliers at Detroit Pistons

Detroit needed another second half surge to pull off a victory. This time they came on strong after trailing by 10 at the half. The Pistons took care of business 81-69.

LeBron was held to 4-21 shooting, scoring only 11 points.

The Pistons did a pretty good job, although I think the offense, especially in the second quarter, still suffered. This, again, could have cost them the game. They will need to continue to work on this issue.

ESPN.com - NBA - Recap - Cavaliers at Pistons

-Dan Joseph

No Beltre in D-Town

Hot hitting third baseman Adrian Beltre has agreed to a five year, $64 million deal with the Seattle Mariners.

Another defeat for the Tigers. How can we expect this team to be better than they were last year?

FOXSports.com - MLB - Beltre going to Mariners

-Dan Joseph

Manny Loves Gary

The latest episode of "Rederick and the NHL" featured a good dose of Manny Legace. "It all goes back to the commissioner," Legace said Wednesday. "We gave him the groundwork for what should have been a deal, and an opportunity to get back on the ice and playing hockey again. But it's hard to deal with someone as pigheaded as he is." Well, gee, Manny, he was kind enough to take your proposal, study it, make adjustments, and toss it back out. What did you do? Oh, that's right, Nothing!

"When was the last time you saw a hockey player in a national promotion? Why shouldn't a Steve Yzerman be out there nationally, just like any football or basketball player? You don't see any hockey players getting in trouble. A better job should be done making the game more popular. He hasn't done that." Not in trouble? They don't hire hitmen to kill their agents? They don't beat up people in pickup games? They don't drive like fools and kill their friends?

"You really feel sorry for the people who own the restaurants and bars downtown. They're getting hurt economically. The people who work in the arena. It's having a bad impact." said Ole Manny. Like he cares. No one involved with the NHL cares about anything other than money. He's right about one thing, the workers being laid off from the NHL offices are being hurt. What does he offer? Gary Bettman is a bad man. Wow, thanks Manny!

Wow, what an uplifting time we had with our friend Manny. Legace is the wings player rep for the NHLPA. He was loved in Detroit, but probably not anymore. Who can love people who only want to take and not give? Santa Claus should be his role model, but probably isn't. Why doesn't he go rally up a few hundred people to eat at the downtown restaurants? Oh, I forgot, they're negotiation tools. Can't be filling them up if they want to use 'em for their own dirty work.

DetNews.com: Legace rips into Bettman - 12/16/04

-Dan Joseph

Preview - NBA - Cleveland Cavaliers at Detroit Pistons

The LeBron James led Cavaliers come into the game after a commanding win over Portland. Cleveland has been shooting, and running the ball extremely well, showing ability to take control of a game, and adjust their defense to beat teams.

The Pistons come in continuing their rollercoaster ride of up and down scoring. Detroit, trailing by 16 at the half, beat the Knicks last night 94-93 behind Rip Hamilton's 29 points.

Detroit has not played so well against Cleveland this year. They lost their November 24 meeting in Cleveland 92-76. They had poor shooting, and let LeBron role for 43 points. They cannot repeat any of this.

Keys to the game:

1. LeBron James. Control James on the interior, pressure him on the outside. James has never been a solid perimeter shooter, but is starting to emerge as one. Pressuring him could keep him check. Expect LeBron to try and penetrate the inside, with Ilgauskas trying to hold Big Ben in check.

2. Perimeter. Guard it well, and shoot from it well. As I talked about this morning, balance the force.

3. Consistency. Do not have a scoring drought. Keep up the pace, and steady the shooting.

Prediction: Cleveland 98, Detroit 104

ESPN.com - NBA - Preview - Cleveland Cavaliers at Detroit Pistons

Bring Balance to the Force

Last night I witnessed something I thought I wouldn’t get to see. It was something that started off on the right track, but quickly went the other direction.

The Detroit Pistons won in New York.

It was 56-40 at half time. Sadly, I thought my prediction of a 98-91 loss was coming true. The Pistons had not defended the perimeter well, and showed signs of another game of inconsistent shooting. This was all about to change.

The Pistons opened the second half with an 8-0 run. They ended the third quarter down just 71-73. With 4.9 seconds left, Chauncey Billups grabbed a rebound, and ran down court, without any consideration of giving Larry Brown a timeout to setup the final play. "It was just instinct, and you can't control instinct. He (Brown) told me I made a great play, a smart play," Billups said. "If I didn't catch it on the run, I probably would have called a timeout. But I caught it with so much momentum, I just wanted to attack." Billups was fouled with 2.6 seconds left, and made both shots, giving the Pistons a game winning 94-93 lead over the Knicks.

I am glad to finally see some offense, and defense mixed into the same game. Unfortunately, I have yet to see them both in an entire game. The Pistons’ woes will continue if they don’t find a way to balance this out, and play at this level for 48 minutes.

I think three things need to happen. Chauncey Billups needs to get more consistent from the perimeter, the Bench needs to contribute more points, and they need to shift a little bit of the defensive intensity to the offense.

If Billups can regain the strong perimeter shooting that we witness in the playoffs each year, this could add 5-10 points to each game. There are times in each game where the Pistons charge down the court, setup an outside shot, and come up empty. They repeat this for two to three minutes, and then go back inside. They simply cannot afford two and three minute droughts.

Behind Billups’ outside shots, there needs to be a healthy rotation of strong bench players. McDyess, Delfino, Dupree, and Hunter are key to this rotation.

Antonio McDyess looks as if he’s starting to get back into things, and starting to play at a level we once witnessed. When, not if, he gets consistent again, this should fuel the bench, and give the Pistons a true sixth man.

Carlos Delfino also needs to get healthy, and stay healthy. Whenever Delfino starts to get into a groove, and play well on a consistent basis, he ends up on the injured list. Delfino could be good for 10 to 12 points per game. That could have an impact on any game.

Although Ronald Dupree is nearly the 11th man on the bench (don’t worry, Darko is still 12th), he must try and achieve some of the success that Delfino has seen. Dupree will be filling in for Delfino while he is out. If Dupree can come in, and work up to six to eight points per game, it would give the Pistons another option, even with or without Delfino.

The last key piece to the bench is Lindsey Hunter. Hunter is averaging just 5.0 points per game in 17.5 minutes. His career history tells us he should be scoring twice that. Hunter must find a niche out there, and focus on coming in and picking up some points. He should put that focus on the perimeter with shooting, and setting up plays. His assists per game are nearly a full point below his career average.

All of this can be achieved by taking an ever so slight bit of that defensive intensity, and shifting it to the offense. It is said that offense wins games, defense wins championships. Yes, that is true, but, the offense behind the defense is still there. We saw this last year in the finals against the Lakers. Detroit not only held the Lakers to a low roar, they also scored points, putting each game out of reach.

There are some ways to adjust for this that mainly focus on the defensive end. Protect the perimeter, and force the ball inside.

Force the ball inside?

Absolutely. By taking away the outside shooting, you force the ball inside where you have the likes of Ben and Rasheed Wallace. Both of them are excellent shot blockers, and excellent rebounders. When you talk about going to work, and playing defense the right way, you need to rely on your engine to drive that defense. That engine is Ben Wallace. This gives Rip and Chauncey the chance to take care of the guards, and Tayshuan the chance to use his long arm span to shut down some of the perimeter shooting.

Last night I saw a well shooting Knicks team expose this flaw. Detroit would swarm to the inner part of the arch, and allow the Knicks to setup three point and long field goal shots. Virtually unchallenged at their best game, the Knicks took advantage, and scored 56 points in the first half. The single most important adjustment I saw was the defending of the perimeter in the second half that allowed the Pistons to come back and win the game.

This type of adjustment will keep the Pistons more balanced. It will take the pressure off of everyone fighting inside, where most of the fatiguing battles take place, and spread the team out, giving them the ability to setup fast breaks, and generate more turnovers. You simply cannot allow 10-19 three point shooting if you want to win many basketball games.

The Pistons play a very good Cleveland Cavaliers team tonight in Detroit. This is a first place Cleveland team with a lot of offense, and a smart defense. They are capable of playing a strong running game, and a strong inside game. Their perimeter shooting is also strengthening each game. The Pistons must be strong on the inside, and defend the perimeter. Simple defending, it’s often easy to break up a long three point shot. Pressure often accounts for a lot, creating rushed shots that come up short.

I’m not asking for an increase in scoring to 110 points per game. All I’m suggesting is that they shift 5% of that defensive energy to the offense. We’ll then have a second straight win tonight, and a team that can score enough points to win effectively.

-Dan Joseph

ESPN.com - NBA - Recap - Pistons at Knicks

The Pistons erased a 16 point deficit to beat the Knicks 94-93. Chauncey Billups put down two free throws with 2.6 seconds left.

Early in the game, Detroit failed to defend the perimeter. This nearly cost them the game. They also did not hit shots when they should have. This is an area that hopefully they have put behind them. They have not shot well lately, and they often leave the perimeter unprotected.

ESPN.com - NBA - Recap - Pistons at Knicks

-Dan Joseph

Novi Mall After Hasek

Dominick Hasek faces another legal battle. 12 Oaks Mall in Novi has sued Hasek claiming that he owes them $496,000 for the rest of a lease he owes thru 2008. Hasek owned a clothing store "Dominator" that sold clothing. The store is now closed.

ClickOnDetroit.com: Novi Mall Sues Former Red Wings Goalie

-Dan Joseph

Saban Talks Fish

Former MSU Head Football Coach Nick Saban has spoken with the Dolpins about becoming their next head coach. "No decisions were made in this meeting, and they will continue their search for a coach," Saban said. "I will continue to be committed to LSU, our football program and totally focused on our bowl game versus Iowa."

There has been much speculation that Saban would use LSU as a stop gap before entering the NFL. He's been the center of discussions for most NFL openings the last two seasons.

Freep.com: Former Michigan State coach Saban talking with Dolphins

-Dan Joseph

Harrington Gets The Nod

Joey Harrington, QB, will start sunday vs the Minnesota Vikings. “He's fighting through some adversity, as well all know, and - yeah - you want to see how he handles that,” Mariucci said. “He's done that before. He did it last year, he's done it at times this year so - yeah - I guess part of the evaluation that takes place on him or anybody is to see how he handles this.”

Starting McMahon wouldn't really have been an upgrade. Expect McMahon to play the second half if Joey QB plays like he did last week.

Freep.com: Harrington starting against Vikings Sunday

-Dan Joseph

Sanchez Still An Option?

From the mouth of Juan Iglesias, agent of Alex Sanchez...

"I really don't expect them not to offer him a contract," Iglesias said. "If they didn't want him, they would've traded him, in my opinion. I try to be as optimistic as possible. In this case, I've talked with them. I haven't gotten any indication from [legal counsel] John [Westhoff] and [GM] Dave [Dombrowski] that they're going to non-tender him."

This doesn't necessarily mean that Sanchez will definitely be offered a contract, it simply means the Tigers have kept their options open. If the Tigers can land free agent outfielder J.D. Drew, or third baseman Adrian Beltre (moving Inge to the outfield), I wouldn't expect Sanchez to be re-signed.

MLB.com: Sanchez expecting a contract

-Dan Joseph

FOXSports.com - MLB - Report: Renteria agrees to sign with Red Sox

So much for the serious considerations. Edgar Renteria will be playing in Fenway next year, signing a four year, $40 million deal with the Boston Red Sox.

This signing opens up more talks about what holes the Tigers will be able to plug, and who they are working out deals with. It has been reported that Adrian Beltre is in the mix for the Tigers. Beltre would be a major upgrade at third base.

FOXSports.com - MLB - Report: Renteria agrees to sign with Red Sox

-Dan Joseph

Preview - NBA - Detroit Pistons at New York Knicks

The Detroit Pistons travel to New York to take on the Knicks. Detroit comes into the game struggling offensively. The Knicks enter the game 11-10, and shooting well behind Marbury and Crawford. Detroit comes in 10-10 on a two game slide struggling to find offense.

Detroit is a defensive oriented team. They pride themselves in hard work basketball, and playing "the right way." Unfortunately, this does not include much scoring as of lately, and leaves them with no room for less than perfect basketball.

Keys to the game:

1. Offense. Detroit must complement it with 95 points or more to win this game.

2. Consistency. There cannot be long periods where the Pistons can’t put the ball in the bucket.

3. Defend the perimeter. Keep the Knicks from scoring on the outside. Make them come inside and challenge the likes of Wallace and Wallace.

4. McDyess must play as if healthy. If McDyess cannot play at a high level, he will hinder this team.

Prediction: Pistons 91, Knicks 98

NBA.com: Detroit at New York

-Dan Joseph

It's Hopeless, Just Cancel It

Yesterday as I sat listening to Gary Bettman talk about the failed negotiations, and I could not help but notice his recognition that the players realize the economics have to change. He appreciates the 24% roll-back in salaries, and realizes they want to get the NHL into good financial shape. “Clearly, the 24 per cent rollback is an essential agreement in the implementation of a new system - the union has admitted as much. However, the rollback is not, in and of itself, a new system...”, Bettman explained.

Bettman offered class, and explanation of what was involved with the players’ proposal, and the league’s proposal. He talked about the players’ proposal putting the salaries at 56% of the league’s revenue on day one, and that there is no guaranty that the number wouldn’t go higher. He’s absolutely right.

NHLPA Director Bob Goodenow claims the league isn’t willing to negotiate, and will only accept a hard cap. “In short, the league took what they liked from our proposal, made major changes and slapped a salary cap on top of it.” That looks like a negotiation to me, Mr. Goodenow. They liked parts of your proposal, and wanted add things of their own. What’s wrong with that? Goodenow also added, “The NHL spent very little time in their proposal.” They had one week to get their proposal together. They also have a clear understanding of what they need to do to fix the systematic problems.

It seems to me that the NHLPA has an agenda, and they see it as their way or the highway. The league took their proposal, talked it over for a week, studied it, and made their changes. The NHLPA spent three and a half hours talking about why they wouldn’t accept a cap, why salary cuts work long time, and refused to accept the NHL’s offer.

Bob, get real. Your tactics and rederick are ruining the NHL. Your league has about $2 billion in yearly revenue to work with, and each day you jeopardize more and more of it. The league, for the first time, tried to negotiate with you, but you would not consider their offer. You looked at it, had a quick meeting, and got on your high horse to ride off into the sunset.

Unless something changes with the players association, there will not be a 2004-2005 hockey season. We’re nearing the close of the window of opportunity to get a short season in, and salvage the Stanley Cup playoffs. At the rate things are continuing, this will be the first time in professional sports history that a season was cancelled. Can the NHL really afford to be the league that accomplishes that?

If the players and owners cannot reach an agreement, and cancel this season, they must find a way to play hockey next season. If it means bringing in replacement players, then so be it. If you call up the right players from around the world, you most likely set the talent level back two to three years. Would it be bad hockey? Probably not. The scoring might even go up. Hey, since we’re using replacement players, why not take some of those ideas from Shanahan’s summit, and test them out? I bet the young guys could adjust better to new rules than the old guys.

The point to all of this is to get players on the ice. Get the league operating again, and show the NHLPA that if they do not want to cooperate, then they will find other people who can abide by a healthy economic system. The rederick has to stop, and the game of false numbers has to stop.

“Gary insists that player compensation had gone up by 12 per cent a year and projected that unsigned players would receive increases of over 23 per cent in 2005-2006 under our proposed system.”, Goodenow explains, “The facts are different. Over the last five years, player compensation has actually gone up around seven per cent a year. And the real numbers over the last five years of this agreement have been 5.2 per cent, 5.8 per cent, 14.4, 9.0 and 2.2.” Now let’s get real. Look at the 14.4 and the 9.0. That is clearly and indication that that Bettman is right in what he says. The only reason that you see a 2.2 is because the league warned the economic system is killing the NHL, and the owners decided not to increase it much in anticipation of a new CBA.

It’s all about the dollars. If you listen to a lot of the veterans, their only problem is the hard cap. They claim that it will hold them back from making what they are worth. If the company you work for only has room in their budget for $35 million, why would think that the players as a whole should be paid $43 million? This really is simple economics. It seems ok to them that the owners lose money, but if you ask them to work for $1.3 million instead of $1.8 million, you get the cold shoulder.

I don’t know if this is the best brainwashing job by a union in the history of negotiations, or true greed. Whatever the case, I hope they do cancel the 2004-2005 season. I hope they bust the union, and use replacement players. One thing is for certain, I will be in line to buy tickets to opening night, and I hope you will be too.

-Dan Joseph

ESPN.com - NCB - Recap - Boston U. at Michigan

Boston University has defeated Michigan 63-52. Michigan was just 3-17 from the three point line, and failed to stop Boston University, who went 7-15 from the three point line.

ESPN.com - NCB - Recap - Boston U. at Michigan

-Dan Joseph

MSUSpartans.com - Caulcrick Earns Big Ten All-Freshman Honors

Michigan State running back Jehuu Caulcrick has been named to the Big Ten All-Freshman team. Caulrick rushed for 619 yards with five touchdowns.

MSUSpartans.com: Caulcrick Earns Big Ten All-Freshman Honors

-Dan Joseph

Beltre, Lowe, and the Old English D

Ken Rosenthal of The Sporting News talked about agent Scott Boras' clients today. Out of them are three names the Tigers are rumored to be after. They are Adrian Beltre, J.D. Drew, and Derek Lowe. Rosenthal expects the Tigers to sign Beltre and Lowe. He expects the Cubs to sign Drew.

Beltre would be a huge upgrade at third base. It would give the Tigers the option of putting Brandon Inge in the outfield, adding more arm and bat power.

Lowe would add another *potential* quality starter to the rotation. Keep in mind Lowe had a 5.42 ERA last season before pitching fabulously in the playoffs and World Series. I have mixed feelings towards Lowe. The more pitcher-friendly ballpark could serve him well. He's also a year older, and could be on the down-swing.

J.D. Drew is another that the Tigers remain in contention for. I had not heard of the Cubs being after Drew until today. If the Tigers are able to sign him, he'll play center field, and would bump Inge (pending a bump from third base) into left or right field, with Bobby Higginson and (maybe) Craig Monroe fighting for, or sharing, the final outfield spot.

Signing a Boras Boy is never a quick process. He has a lot of clients to handle, and is a thorough negotiator. If the Tigers don't have someone signed until the end of the week or later, don't be surprised.

The one I would focus on is Adrian Beltre. He gives the Tigers that big bat they're looking for, and a solid third baseman. I would give him a seven year deal worth $105 million.

Who would you sign if you could only have one? Why? How much would you offer him?

FOXSports.com - MLB - Boras' boys biding time

-Dan Joseph

Four Wolverines, One Spartan Named AP All-American

MGoBlue.com is reporting that the Wolverines are getting a few more honors before heading out to Pasadena to try again at the Rose Bowl. David Baas, Braylon Edwards, Marlin Jackson, and Ernest Shazor have been given AP All-American first team honors.

MGoBlue: Football Quartet Named to AP All-America First Team

MSUSpartans.com is reporting that punter Brandon Fields has given AP All-American first team honors. Fields is a Sophomore. "It feels great to be mentioned among the elite players in the country," Fields said. "I grew up a lot during my sophomore year and became a more consistent punter.

Fields Named Associated Press All-American

-Dan Joseph

Preview - NCF - Boston University at Michigan

The Wolverines, sporting three new walk-ons, will take on Boston University tonight at 7:01pm in Ann Arbor. Amaker will look to Hunter and Harris to lead the team's starting five. It is unclear what impact their bench will have, but I expect Brent Petway to play a role.

The Terriers come in shooting 46.5% from the field, 37.7% from the three point line. Michigan must continue to play tough defense, and score from the perimeter. If they can get the ball inside effectively, they should be able to keep their scoring consistent throughout the game.

Prediction: Boston University 56, Michigan 59

Game Notes

-Dan Joseph

Freep.com: Dumars eyes deal for Bulls' Williams

Detroit Pistons President Joe Dumars appears to be at it again. Dumars is working on a deal that would send Smush Parker and Horace Jenkins to the Bulls for Frank Williams.

Frank Williams would become the third point guard behind Chauncey Billups and Lindsey Hunter.

My reaction: If it weren't the track record of Joe Dumars, I would be questioning this trade. Williams to me doesn't look like he's worth the value of both Parker and Jenkins. Past track record tells me that Dumars might be on to something.

Is this a good trade?

Dumars eyes deal for Bulls' Williams

-Dan Joseph

MSUSpartans.com: Paul Davis Named Big Ten Player Of The Week

MSU's Paul Davis has been named the Big Ten player of the week. Davis, who's struggled to find consistency and motivation this season, put up 20 points and lead his Spartans to a victory over Stanford this past weekend.

If Davis continues to play at a high level, and remain consistent, MSU should take second place in the Big Ten.

Paul Davis Named Big Ten Player Of The Week

-Dan Joseph

Larionov Says Goodbye With Honor

Former Detroit Red Wing Igor Larionov said goodbye with a farewell game in Moscow. Larionov was last known for scoring a game-winning triple overtime goal in the 2002 Stanley Cup Finals against the Carolina Hurricanes. His 28 year professional hockey career spanned over the USSR and NHL, scoring 644 points, and ending his career with a +104. Larionov won three Stanley Cups with the Red Wings.

I would like to extend my congratulations to Igor Larionov, thank you for the memories in Detroit, and wish you the best of retirements.

Larionov honoured in farewell game

-Dan Joseph

Alas Poor Hockey, I Remember You Well

Well, this is it. We have finally reached the end. The death of a great sport, on the day the NHL finalizes the end of the 2004-2005 NHL season. Is it official already? No, not really. The NHL has rejected an NHLPA proposal from last week, and countered with a new one of its own. The details are not yet known, but one thing is obvious, it contains a hard salary cap. This will almost certainly split the two sides apart again, ending the season.

I sat down this morning and started to think, “Who is really to blame?” I think the answer is everyone involved. Neither said has truly negotiated. Neither side is willing to discuss a good way to make a salary cap work. The only thing I see are two sides going back and forth with proposal after proposal, and telling the fans why their plan is better than their foes.

Last week it appeared that there was a deal to be worked out. The league offered to cut their salaries 24%, and apply luxury tax starting at $45 million. The league argues that luxury tax is a temporary, short term fix that can reverse itself in as soon as one year. I would agree with this.

But what has the league really offered other than a $31 million hard cap laid out six different ways? As far as I can tell, absolutely nothing. They are adamant on the salary cap. That is not necessarily a bad thing, but there is much emotion involved that it’s getting in the way of true negotiations.

What needs to happen? Who knows.

One thing is for certain, someone needs to take Bettman and Goodenow into a room, and lock the door. Alcatraz is empty, maybe they should put ‘em both in a cell together and tell ‘em they aren’t getting out until a deal is done. More negotiation and less politics. That would be a good start.

I have a strong message for everyone when this is over. I’d like Goodenow to resign, and Bettman to resign. I think both are a disgrace in the handling of this CBA, and it’s time someone with more competence came in and ran the league, and the union, the proper way. The veteran players are getting greedier, and the ones that weren’t in the beginning were called into a meeting where Goodenow could brainwash them. The younger players that aren’t greedy have been pushed aside, and given no chance at public appearance.

Bettman, Goodenow, get the wax of out of your ears, and get a deal done. Your already-small fan base is 50% less than it was last summer, and is shrinking every day. Negotiate a deal, get the players on the ice, and get lost.

-Dan Joseph

NHL Set To Reject

TSN.ca is reporting that tomorrow the NHL will reject the NHLPA’s proposal from last week’s meeting. "We believe the Union's offer was more about trying to unify the players and ensure player solidarity with what they would perceive as a very substantial proposal than it was about making a good faith effort to reach agreement us..." Daly wrote. "...The Union needed the 'rallying point' that it felt this offer would provide with the players to effectuate this strategy. Under this scenario, the Union will likely (and quickly) break off negotiations."

This could be viewed as the last final blow before the cancellation of the 2004-2005 NHL season. "We plan to make a counter-offer to the Union on Tuesday in Toronto consistent with our mandate from (the governors) in that regard," the memo said. That mandate is a hard salary cap. The owners want a hard cap, the players don’t. Stalemate?

So what are your thoughts on this? Who’s right? Who’s wrong? Any other solutions?

-Dan Joseph

Tigers Hot Stove About To Boil

The Tigers have another positive glimpse of "hope" coming out of the winter meetings. Edgar Renteria is "definitely, seriously considering" signing with the Tigers.

Renteria hit .287 with 10 home runs and 72 RBIs for the Cardinals last season. He's a short stop, which would likely move Guillen over to the third base. There has been some talk that a move to third base could be easier on Guillen's repaired knee. Current third baseman, Brandon Inge, would likely head to center field.

Scott Boras believes that one of his clients is almost ready to sign with the Tigers. "Yes, I think I'll have some signings to announce (today)," Boras said. "Certainly one, possibly two." Lowe? Drew? Beltre? It's hard to say at this point. Boras represents an unusual amount of free agents this off-season.

The winter meetings are wrapping up today. If we don't hear something today, look for something later this week.

MLB.com: Renteria rumors pick up steam

-Dan Joseph

Joey Harrington, QB.

It was one of the most intriguing offensive performances ever put on by a Detroit Lions Quarterback. It was one for the ages, filled with a lot of passing, a lot of running, and a lot of the ground. The ground?

Joey Harrington was 5 for 22, with 47 yards, zero touchdowns, and a 39.6 rating on the way to a 16-13 loss to the Green Bay Packers. Harrington continued his high passes, late passes, and passes into high coverage areas. It was so awful, it was intriguing. At one point my wife asked if she could watch something else. I snapped out of control, “No!” I could not help but watch intensely while I waited to see what blunder would come next. Nothing would get in the way. I kept asking myself, “What is wrong with Joey?”

Maybe the weather had something to do with it? What do you think? Did the weather affect you, Mr. Harrington? “It affected everybody out there, just look at that last ball to Roy. He turned the defensive back around, he ran a great route out there and he was running to catch it in stride and then it kind of stopped. It was something that everybody had to deal with. It was definitely the most difficult wind conditions that I have played in, but we were all out there.”

I don’t think so.

This game marks one of many games where the Lions looked as if they could make it into the end zone in the first half, but fizzled in the second. “We haven’t scored an offensive touchdown in the second half the last five weeks, “, said WR Roy Williams. “We just aren’t effective, it makes no sense.”

It makes perfect sense to me. There are four things I see wrong with the passing of Joey Harrington. They include accuracy, height, authority, and vision.

Harrington lacks accuracy in his passes. He often throws the ball behind his receivers or completely off their mark completely. Until he learns how to throw the ball in their path, he will continue to struggle.

The passes that are accurate are usually one or two feet above the receiver’s head. This puts pressure on the receivers to continually jump in the air, and have to fight a defender off to catch the ball. In some cases, they have to stop their route, jump, and bring the ball down before continuing towards the end zone.

In the rare case that Joey manages to hit his receivers properly, he often lacks authority (power). This lack of power gives the defense plenty of time to intercept, or block, his passes.

That brings me to his lack of vision. Why is he always passing to only one person most of the game, even if they are in high coverage? He simply lacks the vision to see the entire field. Joey must overcome this lack of vision, and start spreading the ball around the field to different receivers.

Little can be done about the offense at this point. The Lions are now 5-8, and can only hope to win one or two more games. They will not make the playoffs. Is it time to bring in McMahon? I don’t think that’s the answer either.

The off-season is their only hope. Somehow, Matt Millen must find the courage, common sense, and person to replace Joey Harrington. There are candidates out there such as Jon Kitna, Kurt Warner, and possibly Drew Brees. Brees would be the obvious best candidate for the job; however, the Chargers are talking franchise tag for him.

I think if it were up to me, and I couldn’t have Brees, I would bring in Jon Kitna. Kitna is currently familiar with a Bengals’ offensive system that resembles the Lions’ west coast system. Kitna, at worst, could either be a decent starter or a great motivational figure for Joey Harrington. Some speculate that Joey is unchallenged, and could use a veteran around to push him to the next level.

I’m not yet convinced that Joey, with our without a veteran challenger, can be a good starting QB in the NFL. I think he lacks confidence, accuracy, the ability to see the field, and mobility. Replacing Harrington would seem to be the most logical move to fix the offense for next season. Keeping him is not benefiting the Lions.

Take the risk, cut him loose, and start over.

Pistons hit the skids
The Detroit Pistons hit the skids this weekend. Detroit hosted the Atlanta Hawks on Friday, losing 88-72. Detroit shot just 30% while the Hawks shot 55%.

Saturday night in Memphis, the Pistons continued to struggle. They shot just 35%, and fell 72-68 to the Grizzlies.

It is possible the Pistons miss the bench scoring from Corliss Williamson and Mike James. It is also possible that they need a healthy Antonio McDyess back on the bench, and a little time to work Carlos Delfino back in, who just returned from the injured list, to regain the bench scoring depth.

We’ll find out Wednesday when they travel to New York to face the Knicks.

-Dan Joseph

ESPN.com - NFL - Recap - Detroit Lions at Green Bay Packers

Joey Harrington continued to show us that he is not the guy to lead this offense. Harrington went 5 for 22, with 47 yards, and 0 touchdowns. Kevin Jones ran for 156 yards, with one touchdown, and Jason Hanson kicked two field goals, as the Packers beat the Lions 16-13.

Harrington has to go. Without a passing game, there will be no more wins this season for the Lions. With a one dimensional offense, it gives the defense the option of putting all their options on one guy.

ESPN.com - NFL - Recap - Detroit Lions at Green Bay Packers

-Dan Joseph

Guillen Could Play 3B

The Tigers appear to still be in the race for Edgar Renteria still. Sources with knowledge of the negotiations for Renteria have reported that a deal with the Tigers, Mariners, or Cardinals is still possible. It was reported yesterday that Renteria was a done deal for the Red Sox.

If the Tigers sign Renteria, Guillen would most likely move to third base. I think this could be a more ideal move than signing Koskie. Guillen and Renteria have better bats, which the Tigers need in the lineup.

FOXSports.com - MLB - Cards still in mix for Renteria

-Dan Joseph

ESPN.com - NFL - Preview - Detroit Lions at Green Bay Packers

It's all up the Joey. That's right, Joey Harrington holds the key to the Lions, as they face the Packers in the frozen tundra.

In recent weeks, the running game has come together, the kicking game as smoothed out, and the defense has been pretty good. The only item left on the list to solidify is the QB game. If Harrington can somehow find a way out of the red zone, and into the end zone, the Lions could challenge the Packers, and possibly flirt with a W.

Prediction: Lions 17, Packers 38

ESPN.com - NFL - Preview - Detroit Lions at Green Bay Packers

-Dan Joseph

Tigers Hot Stove Cooling Off? Not So...

The Detroit Tigers, shut out so far by Carl Pavano, Troy Glaus, Steve Finley, and others, are reportedly working on deals with Derek Lower, J.D. Drew, and Corey Koskie. Although they're not expected to land all three, it is safe to say that two of three positions could be filled.

Lowe has a reported 3 year deal on the table, Drew has a reported 4 year, $36 million deal on the table. Both are represented by Scott Boras, the agent that brought Ivan Rodriguez to Detroit last year. Boras spent a good deal of time speaking with the Tigers Saturday night.

Among other offers was an offer to Corey Koskie. "We have made him an offer," Dombrowski said, "but I can't say that I feel confident that it's going to be a situation that develops necessarily for us. But I don't know what other scenarios are out there at this point."

Scott Boras is a tough negotiator. Unless one of his clients is completely swept away by Detroit, don't expect a quick negotiation, or any news of signings this weekend.

MLB.com: Tigers inactive after Day Two

-Dan Joseph

ESPN.com - NCB - Recap - Stanford at Michigan State

Paul Davis lead the Spartans to a 78-53 victory over Standford at the Palace of Auburn hills this afternoon. Davis scored 20 points, with 8 rebound, and shot 6-7 from the free throw line. Davis' poor efforts have been the center of talks for the struggling MSU team.

ESPN.com - NCB - Recap - Stanford at Michigan State

-Dan Joseph

ESPN.com - NBA - Recap - Pistons at Grizzlies

The Pistons' woes continued tonight in Memphis. The defending champs lost 72-68. Shooting continues to be a problem for the team.

ESPN.com - NBA - Recap - Pistons at Grizzlies

-Dan Joseph