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Blake Griffin, Detroit Pistons leader keeps the team focused

Embed from Getty Images Blake Griffin dispelled any rumor during the NBA trade deadline saying he was happy in Detroit. If there was any doubt they can be put to rest. Blake Griffin is the Pistons unquestioned leader.

“Being the 6th or 7th seed is absolutely nothing to be proud of. We tricked off two months of basketball.” That was Blake Griffin on the recent success of the Detroit Pistons.

On one hand it sounds like he is slamming his team. Which is was. On the other hand it sounds like he is trying to keep the Pistons focused. He is. You see by letting the team and media know that the Pistons played two bad months of basketball, they have somehow managed to climb back into the playoff picture.

That is what a good leader looks like. Acknowledging where they have been while keying in on where they want to be and are going. on Jan. 29 with the Pistons 7 games under .500, mired in bad play, Griffin offered this:
“I don’t know how many games back we are. Can’t be more than 2½, three. So that’s a solid 10 games of basketball and some losses from a team that’s right ahead of us.”

Again letting everyone know the sky was not falling and there was still time to salvage the season. Check.

It is almost as if the trade deadline brought a focus that was missing. It also seemed to bring team chemistry that had bee absent all together. “As players, you’ve got to trust the front office,” Griffin said shortly after the team  picked up Thon Maker for Johnson and rookie Svi Mykhailiuk and a future No. 2 pick.

Blake Griffin said “My message to our guys is, like, what have we done? We’ve had a good stretch. A lot of teams have had good stretches.” Griffin has embraced his role as team leader and brought a new found focus to the Detroit Pistons.

Leaders are a dime a dozen. But when it’s authentic, it’s pretty easy to spot. Which is why Griffin stands out.

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Michigan Wolverines will look to Hudson and Gil to bring stability to the linebackers

Embed from Getty Images It was not going to be easy to replace Devin Bush Jr’s production. Yet the Wolverines may be able to use two to get the production of one. At least that is the thought process.

Michigan will count on a pair of experienced veterans Khaleke Hudson and Devin Gil to help bolster the linebackers. Hudson, rings speed and  skill that few others can match on the roster.

Hudson brings a flexibility to the field as he can line up as a hybrid linebacker-safety. Khaleke is also a  two-time all-Big Ten honorable mention selection so that brings hope that he can help out a starter.

Devin Gil, brings perhaps the best run-stopping ability to the linebackers. In 2018 Gil  had 33 tackles (3 1/2 for a loss) and 1 1/2 sacks. Nice stats. Again Gil is likely to be named a starter in 2019.

As with the entire Michigan defense depth is a real issue and a real concern. It simply is not there. That puts pressure on both Hudson and Gil. Both played in a backup role last season will now have the spotlight on them this season.

This is not the kind of sink or swim moment either one was looking for. Yet, that because of the lack of depth  is exactly what it is. Sink or swim. Part of it is on the coaching staff to put them in position to succeed. Part of it is on the two players to do their job and make plays.

Michigan should find out if Hudson and Gil can bring stability at the linebacker position during spring practice. They will be under the microscope fair or unfair. That is what happens when it is the next man or men up.

In theory the Wolverines should be alright. They are getting Devin Bush’s run-stopping ability as well has his pass coverage ability. Only it is not just one player it it two. So there will be an adjustment period.

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Detroit Red Wings legend Ted Lindsay passes away at 93

Embed from Getty Images 4- time Stanley Cup champion and Detroit Red Wings legend Ted Lindsay has passed away. Lindsay who was born in 1925, played 14 of his 17 NHL seasons with the Red Wings, winning Stanley Cups with Detroit in 1950, 1952, 1954, 1955. The left wing was nicknamed “Terrible Ted” for his toughness on the ice.

Ted Lindsay, leaves a huge legacy behind. Ted’s on-ice excellence was matched by his off-ice commitment to improving the lives of his colleagues, as well as children. He started the players union. So players are better off because of his hard work.

He started the Ted Lindsay foundation for autism and children. Lindsay’s interest in autism was sparked nearly two decades ago, when he was working out with John Czarnecki, his physical therapist and trainer. Czarnecki had a young son who had been  diagnosed with autism. In true Ted Lindsay fashion he jumped in to help out a teammate.

To date the Ted Lindsay foundation has raised $3.5 million for autism related causes. On ice Lindsay though small 5′ 8″ was not to be messed with. Period. There was a reason players called him “Terrible Ted.” He famously said “I do not worry about the big guy, they fall farther than little guys. That’s all.”

Ted was the league’s top scorer in 1949-50 with 78 points. He’s sixth in goals in franchise history with 335 and fifth in penalty minutes, with 1,423. He received more than 600 stitches during his time as a player. Lindsay scored 335 of his 379 goals in a Red Wings sweater, ranking sixth all-time in team history behind Gordie Howe (786), Steve Yzerman (692), Alex Delvecchio (456), Sergei Fedorov (400) and Henrik Zetterberg (337).

For myself I will remember the kind gentle Ted Lindsay who made regular stops at Detroit Red Wings games. I always make it a point to walk past his statue in Little Caesar’s Arena. As our family has been touched by autism. Mr. Lindsay was a loud voice for these children. A voice that is now in the hands of current Red Wing, Dylan Larkin.

Detroit has lost a champion for the city. Autism has lost a champion for the cause. It is a sad day in Motown.

 

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Michigan State suffers Big Ten title blow in loss to Indiana

Embed from Getty Images Michigan State Spartans men’s basketball coach Tom Izzo said he is not worried about the Big Ten title. He is more concerned with how his team will play in their next game. Given the up and down Spartans season, it is a just concern.

Michigan State who looked so good and so complete last Sunday when they beat rival Michigan looked the complete opposite in the second in season loss to the Indiana Hoosiers.

Michigan State was in total control of winning the Big Ten outright only to be upset again by the Hoosiers. Michigan State now sits one full game behind the Purdue Boilermakers who steamrolled Ohio State.

Michigan State is currently tied with Michigan for second place. Michigan plays at Maryland, Sunday afternoon. Of the two schools Purdue has a much easier path to the Big Ten title, as they have both Minnesota and Northwestern left to play.

Michigan will rematch Michigan State March 9. “We are not going to worry about this team or that team. Who can help us who can’t help us” Izzo said.

That is the correct thought process the Spartans need. Focus on the next game. Focus on what you can control. Another Indiana performance could sink Michigan State’s season. They would be faced with an uphill battle in the Big Ten Tournament as well as a mid-lower seeding in the NCAA Tournament.

I can not say injuries have caught up to the Spartans. They rallied and won three games in a row after three starters went down. It is possible Michigan State has lost a fourth player when Kyle Ahrens went down with an ankle injury and his status is up in the air.

In sports no team cares about injuries. They see Michigan State on the front of the jersey and understand they are playing a team that usually is in the mix for best in the conference. So there is a bullseye on them.

Izzo will not let his players feel sorry for themselves. They will have to rally together one more time if they want the ending they have dreamed about.

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Christopher Ilitch mum of possible Detroit Red Wings reunion with Steve Yzerman

Embed from Getty Images In case you missed it. Before NHL training camps opened on the 2018-19 season Tampa Bay Lightning general manger Steve Yzerman announced he was stepping down. Not only did he announce it he said he was headed back to Detroit. Causing a frenzy in Motown.

Stating he was tired of trying to tend to his family and flying back and forth between Detroit and Tampa Florida. Detroit Red Wings legend and 20 year captain Steve Yzerman sent a shock wave through the league.

Yzerman who is widely thought of as one of if not the top general manager in hockey was making himself a free agent. One thing. It seems like the only place he is willing to go is the general managers chair in Detroit.

It is known that Yzerman was asked and said no to both the Philadelphia Flyers and Edmonton Oilers general managers jobs when they opened a few months ago. Leaving the Flyers owner to say “I think it’s clear he wants to be in Detroit.”

When asked point blank if he has reached out to Yzerman, Detroit Red Wings owner Christopher Ilitch said “No, we have not done that. He is under contract and we generally have a rule within our organization not talking about executives are others who are under contract with another organization.”

That seemed like it was disheartening news to hear. Until Ilitch offered something so small yet so powerfully telling, “There’s not a lot I can say about that other the I know his contract is expiring this summer, and leave it at that.”

So let us take a closer look at that. Ilitch said he has not contacted Yzerman. Fair enough. He really does not need to. It is clear the owner is keeping tabs on the Detroit legend. He acknowledged he knows his contract is expiring.

Throw in the fact Steve Yzerman has already turned down two job opportunities and is known to want to stay in Detroit. Ilitch does not need to approach him now. Simply wait until June 1 when Yzerman’s Lightning obligations are done.

Ken Holland will be in the final year of his two year contract with the Red Wings. He may not get the last year if Christopher Ilitch turns to Yzerman. Which seems likely to happen.

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Detroit Tigers owner Christopher Ilitch “Discipline the key to rebuild”

Embed from Getty Images Christopher Ilitch has made many spring training visits to Lakeland Florida over the years. Some as the owners son and the last two over being the owner of the Detroit Tigers. Saturday morning he made his yearly visit.

Christopher Ilitch met the media shortly after arriving a Tiger Town and was upfront and blunt about the state of the team and the state of the Tigers rebuild.

Starting by saying he wants the Tigers to win again sooner that later. That was a good draw-in for all Detroit Tigers fans. After the draw-in, he tempered the talk by saying he and the front office is determined to see the rebuild to it’s fruition.

“I have the same sense of impatience our fans have.” Ilitch fired off. “I am a fan first and foremost. I want to see this team be a great team, a playoff team and ultimately a championship team.” Christopher and the Tigers are taking the right approach.

Ilitch then went and watch some Tigers top prospects in action. Matt Manning third baseman Isaac Paredes and outfielder Brock Deatherage did not disappoint their owner.

“We are executing our plan, I think we are starting to see really nice progress.” If this was just any owner it would be lip service. But coming from Ilitch and the fact the Detroit Tigers have a top 10 pipeline it rings true.

“When I look at our pool of prospects there are some who will actually make their way to Detroit this summer.” Again a true statement. The reason it is critical the Tigers see the rebuild all the way though is simple. It works.

Look at the Chicago Cubs and Houston Astros. Both teams went in the tank for 5-7 year and reemerged from rebuilding to win the World Series. The same thing is about to happen in Philadelphia. The Phillies have not been good for 7 years and are coming out of their rebuild with Bryce Harper in toat.

The million dollar question of when the Tigers will spend money on top free agents was answered as well. Once the Tigers have a solid young core (which should happen by the end of this season) and they have a chance to play in Detroit together (most likely next summer) then the wallet will be open.

Christopher Ilitch also noted that he does not know what the payroll will look like right now simply because “we are laser-focused on building our core.”

In short this years media meet and greet sounded vastly different. That is because the Tigers are getting closer to the end of their rebuild. Baseball is about to be fun again in the Motor City where the sport reigns supreme.

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Detroit Lions 2019 draft plan

Embed from Getty Images The Detroit Lions need help across the board. Tight End, Wide Receiver, Guard, Cornerback, Safety, Defensive Edge Rusher. The Lions pick in the first round at #8 where will the team go?

There is need. There is also the best player available. In recent years Lions general manager Bob Quinn has gone down both avenues. When the need is many there really is no wrong way to go about drafting.

Here is my big-board for the Lions at #8. In the order that I view the value of the pick. Agree or disagree. It should be noted this list is before free agency. So it is possible the Lions fill a need before the draft.

  1. Tight End, T.J. Hockenson Iowa Hawkeyes, he averaged 51.5 snaps/game. At 6-foot-5 and 250 pounds Hockenson is ideal size for the NFL. running the 40 in 4.5 the big man can move. He is a dynamic pass catcher. T.J. is an excellent blocker on the line or downfield. Making him the top choice for the Lions who desperately need a tight end.

2. Defensive Edge Rusher, Clelin Ferrell, Clemson Tigers, One of the nations best at getting into the backfield rushing the passer and shutting down the rushing game. What appeals teams and should jump out at the Detroit Lions is Ferrell can play with no hands on the ground or one hand on the ground. Meaning he can play either the 3-4 or 4-3 defense with no issues. While Clelin  lack the speed and strength that Nick Bosa and Josh Allen have, his overall strength stands out as he is stronger than his draft hopefuls.

3. Ed Oliver, Defensive Edge Rusher, Houston Cougars, The 6-foot-2, 290-pound playmaker flashed big-time potential.  He shows a great first-step quickness, lateral movement skills, explosive strength and hustle for a pass-rushing defensive tackle playing as a one-technique.  One of the top defensive prospects in college football makes Oliver a player of interest for the Detroit Lions.

While there is no telling what the Lions big-board looks like. It is safe to say that one of these p[layers lands in Motown. Any one of the three will be able to step in and help out immediately.

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The Detroit Pistons could make some noise in the playoffs

Embed from Getty Images The Detroit Pistons, have only been to the NBA playoffs once in the past nine seasons. The Pistons are clearly a flawed basketball  team.  But they can bolster their playoff chances by simply continuing to play the way they have in recent weeks.

Ranking 29th in the NBA in both effective field goal rate as well as true shooting percentage through February 1. Since Feb. 2, though, the club has jumped into the top five leaguewide in both categories. A big change of pace for the Pistons to be sure. The team has found it’s footing.

In the early part of the season the Pistons relied too much on Blake Griffin. Over the past month the Detroit Pistons are more balanced. Andre Drummond has looked better than ever simply by getting back to the basics near the rim also  Reggie Jackson has finally found some consistency and has found his shooting touch.

While no NBA team scores fewer fast break-away points that Detroit, it comes as a somewhat pleasant surprise that the team is actually shooting better since trading Reggie Bullock. That does not usually work that way when the best shooter is traded.

One thing that also hurts the Pistons is a real lack of depth at key positions. All it takes is a cold night shooting the ball and Detroit would be unable to recover. One thing remains, Detroit has at 87% playoff probability. The team also has an easier path to the playoffs thanks in large part to a softer schedule coming down the stretch.

The Pistons’ defense has been solid all year.  Pistons could reach the playoffs at below .500 and still be favored in the first round. The defense and Griffin, Drummond and Jackson give Detroit a solid 3. These three players would also mean Detroit would have a real chance to advance to the second round.

For a team up against the salary cap that would be a major accomplishment.

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Dylan Larkin ready to lead the Detroit Red Wings

Embed from Getty Images If there was any question who the next captain of the Detroit Red Wings would be that question has been answered. The Red Wings are woefully bad. But young players have taken HUGE steps forward. One player stands above all.

After the worst loss of the season 8-1 at home to Montreal, young Detroit Red Wings center was seen on the bench starting at his teammates in a moment of total anger and frustration. Larkin took his helmet off and slammed it on the ground. He walked up the tunnel to collect himself before rejoining the team.

Asked about it after the game Larking stood before the Detroit media and said “I was not happy with my performance or the teams effort. It starts with me.” Just like that a captain was found. Not that Dylan Larkin was not going to be the guy.

Enjoying a fantastic season on a personal note. With 26 goals and 61 points in 63 games. Larkin is one of the NHL’s best young players. He leads by example. He also leads by his words.

After Henrik Zetterberg retired, Detroit said no one person would be named captain for the 2018-19 season. Fair enough. As the season started and has gone along Larkin has separated  himself from the rest of the really good young talent in Motown.

He has stood in front of the media most nights after a loss like a pro as he explained the reason for another loss. That is something captains or a veteran player does.

The Detroit Red Wings are on the doorstep of being very good again. With just under $18 million in cap space this Summer Detroit is sure to add some solid veterans to go with their young core.

The Red Wings will add players. They will get better. They many even skate for a Stanley Cup soon. They will do so under captain Dylan Larkin’s watch. That is very good news for Detroit hockey.

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2019 Michigan Wolverines spring football preview

Embed from Getty Images The Michigan Wolverines fan  base is growing tired of asking Is this the year? It’s been 14 seasons since Michigan’s football team won a Big Ten title the longest drought in program history. Despite improvements made by Jim Harbaugh and his coaching staff the team still stumbled down the stretch.

March 17, is kickoff for Michigan’s spring practice.  One of the top questions for the Wolverines is can the offense play with better balance and consistency? Another can they come up with defensive depth?

Wide receivers Donovan Peoples-Jones, Nico Collins and Tarik Black, (if he can stay healthy and on the field), headline a deep group of  pass-catchers for the Wolverines. New offensive coordinator Josh Gattis has banged the “speed in space” drum since arriving in Ann Arbor.

The Wolverines have more than enough quality depth at running back even with the loss of Chris Evans who was dismissed by Harbaugh for undisclosed reasons. That should help starting quarterback Shea Patterson who has one full season under his belt.

The defensive front that has played a big role in Michigan’s success for most of the 2018 season has some players to replace. Electric pass-rusher Josh Uche, end Kwity Paye and defensive tackle Michael Dwumfour, who took a big step forward last season.That is the good news. The bad news is there is real concern at the lack of depth.

Michigan also has to replace all-everything linebacker Devin Smith. That will not be easy to do. His production will be very difficult to reproduce.

This is a big year for Harbaugh who was brought to Michigan to win championships. Fans are growing weary waiting for it to happen. Losing his first four shots at Ohio State makes Jim Harbaugh the first Michigan coach to do that is doing him no favors. He needs to solve Ohio State.

When Ohio State and Michigan meet November 30 Harbaugh will have yet another shot. Will it be his last? That is a good question as spring practice opens soon.

After what should have been a better season, Michigan now has to reload in some important positions. Young players must step in and step up. This is where coaches make their money.