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Last Word On Sports

Sports News Since 2011. Honestly.

Last Word On Sports Logo

Sports. Honestly. Since 2011

Month: April 2012

Serie A Week 31 Review, Week 32 Preview

Posted on by Frank Giuliano

 

Week 31 of the Serie A was great for Bianconeri fans and upsetting   for the Milanisti. AC Milan fell at home to a Fiorentina side that is currently going through a crisis as the Viola are in strong contention for relegation. The Rossoneri took the lead early on with yet another Zlatan Ibrahimovic spot kick. Milan was a tad complacent in the second half where Fiorentina scored twice with Stevan Jovetic equalising quickly after the restart. With one minute remaining, ex-Juve forward, Amauri inserted a dagger in the Rossoneri faithfuls’ heart as he bagged the game winner with a minute left! The striker had not scored since last April. Milan lost their first place status when the news worsened that Juventus had won their fixture with a 2-0 score line in Sicily against Palermo with goals from Bonucci and Quagliarella. The Old Lady is now leading with a one-point advantage on Milan with seven games remaining.

A surprising result at the Stadio Via del Mare! AS Roma had their Champions league hope hit a brick wall with an embarrassing 4-2 loss away to Lecce. Cross-city rivals, SS Lazio, made their third-place ambition almost a reality with a 3 -1 win over Napoli who is also in contention for the final Champions League spot. Udinese, who is also in the running for the third and final spot for Europe’s prestigious tournament, battered Parma 3-1 at the Stadio Friuli. Lazio currently sit behind Milan with 54 points, followed by Udinese with 51, and then Napoli with 48 points.

Other results: Atalanta 1-2 Siena; Udinese 3-1 Parma; Chievo 3-2 Catania; Cagliari 2-2 Inter; Cesena 0-0 Bologna; Novara 1-1 Genoa.

Week 32 Preview

Week 32 will played in midweek and will be crucial throughout the standings. AC Milan travels to Verona to take on Chievo and will be aiming to reclaim first place at least momentarily, putting the Old Lady under pressure to win her encounter. The Rossoneri are currently on a poor run of form coming off a tie and loss respectively. The Milan camp has also been hit hard with bad news as Massimo Ambrosini, Alberto Aquilani, and Daniele Bonera are out due to suspension and will be without Kevin Prince Boateng and Alexandre Pato due to injury. However, Diavoli coach Max Allegri, will be able to call up Alessandro Nesta, Clarence Seedorf, and Mathieu Flamini. Milan and Italy International Antonio Cassano should be making his first start since he suffered a minor stroke against Roma.

First place and undefeated Juventus welcome Lazio to the Juventus Stadium. All eyes will be on this match-up as the Bianconeri are aiming to keep hold of first whereas Lazio wants to finish third. This will be a tough game for both teams. Juve’s heart, grit, and determination might prove too powerful to handle for the Biancocelesti. But do not count out the Laziali as they can be dangerous but will have to deal with a Klose-less attack whereas the Old Lady will be at full strength for this encounter. Milan fans will pray that Lazio ends Juve’s unbeaten record whereas Udinese and Napoli will hope for an Old Lady victory. For the sake of the Rossoneri fans and campaign, I will say….Forza Lazio!

Relegation-threatened Fiorentina, fresh from a big win at the San Siro against Milan, will play Palermo at the Stadio Artemio Franchi in Florence. This is Fiorentina boss Delio Rossi’s first game against his former club since being dismissed from Rosanero owner, Maurizio Zamparini. Palermo are sitting comfortably in 11th and still has a slight chance for Europa League action.

AS Roma host Udinese at the Stadio Olimpico. This is a huge game as both teams are fighting to keep pace for third place finish. We can say the losing team will probably get their dream denied!

Other fixtures: Inter v Siena; Napoli v Atalanta; Parma v Novara; Genoa v Cesena; Catania v Lecce.

…that’s the last word!

NHL Final Analysis Central and Pacific Divisions

Posted on by Grant Alexander

Central Division

Team: St. Louis Blues

Current Position: 1st
Probable Finish: 1st
Possible Finish: 1st-2nd
Current Status: Fighting for Presidents Trophy, playoff bound

Possible First Round Opponents: Dallas, Los Angeles, San Jose, Phoenix
Probable Playoff Finish: Stanley Cup Finals

Draft Ranking: Late first round pick
Position Targeted: Best available

Free Agency and Off-Season Moves: This is an exciting team to watch. They combine stellar team defense with a blue-collar work ethic. They fore check hard, play the body, and have completely bought into Ken Hitchcock’s defensive style. And for their efforts they have home ice advantage in the playoffs, a possible Presidents Trophy, and boast the best goaltending tandem in the league. Oh, and believe it or not they are 10 Million dollars under the cap! The St. Louis organization has done a great job of scouting, and cultivating that homegrown talent over the years, which has resulted in success and moderate contracts. This off-season will be much the same as they have their goaltending tandem locked up, as well as their defensive core, minus Jackman, who will undoubtedly sign. Upfront they do have some raises to give and some decisions to make, but it will be a similar looking team next year. With this being their first real playoff run in recent years, my guess will be that they will fall just short of the ultimate prize. So with a similar team locked up for next year, why not splurge with all that extra cash and really make a statement heading into next season.
Status Next Season: Playoff team

Team: Detroit Red Wings

Current Position: 4th
Probable Finish: 4th
Possible Finish: 4th-6th
Current Status: Playoff bound

Possible First Round Opponents: Nashville, Chicago
Probable Playoff Finish: 1st round

Draft Ranking: Late first round pick
Position Targeted: Best available

Free Agency and Off-Season Moves: Those late-season injuries really hurt Detroit down the stretch, but I don’t think it would have mattered much as they are still looking at finishing 4th or 5th. Which unfortunately means a tough series against a division rival. Home ice is essential for them, as I think they are outmatched by both possible opponents (Nashville, Chicago). I also think a first round exit might spark the retirements of cornerstone players Holmstrom, and Lidstrom. Which isn’t necessarily a bad thing, Lidstrom will go into hockey lore as one of the greats, and it will free up about 8 million dollars in cap space. It will mean that management has some work to do though. They still have an unbelievable core of talent, that is to old and to good to waste via a rebuild. Which isn’t Detroit’s style anyway. I don’t think they have ever uttered the words re-build, unless it was when they drafted Yzerman, or maybe Howe. And that also means they will not mortgage their future trading picks or prospects. No I think if retirement does come knocking, they will hit free agency with their newfound cash. And with the allure of one of the greatest franchises in hockey, I don’t think they will have a problem enticing possible candidates.
Status Next Season: Playoff team

Team: Chicago Blackhawks

Current Position: 6th
Probable Finish: 6th
Possible Finish: 4th-6th
Current Status: Playoff bound

Possible First Round Opponents: Los Angeles, San Jose, Dallas, Phoenix
Probable Playoff Finish: 1st round

Draft Ranking: Late first round pick
Position Targeted: Best available

Free Agency and Off-Season Moves: Last season the Hawks had a really slow start due to what’s referred to as a “Stanley Cup hangover”. Then late in the season they picked up their game, qualified for the playoffs, and were 1 goal away from beating the Vancouver Canucks who went on to win the Western Conference, and fall one game short of the Stanley Cup. That led me to believe they were a serious threat coming into this 2011-2012 season. And I think they were, but inconsistent goaltending really put the kibosh on that. And that’s really been Chicago’s Achilles heel lately, which is a bit ironic considering their rich history of Hall of Fame goaltenders. And that’s also why I don’t see them beating L.A. who is their likely first round opponent. But with their core locked up for years to come, time is really on Chicago’s side; with the only thing really stopping them from returning to greatness is a goaltender. Obviously easier said than done though. I think there is still some belief that Crawford will round into shape, which is one of three options, although he is already 27. If that’s the case I would drop Emery and grab a notable veteran as there should be a few available as teams look for youthful upgrades. Option two would be to trade or pay for a top goalie, but that move might put them in cap trouble as they only have about 4 mill to play with. The third option would be to trade or acquire goalie prospects and obviously hope one of them pans out. Also, Crawford is only making 2.7 million and is under contract for the next two years. Which like I said before, means there’s no immediate rush, but obviously sooner is better than later.
Status Next Season: Playoff team

Team: Nashville Predators

Current Position: 5th
Probable Finish: 5th
Possible Finish: 4th-6th
Current Status: Playoff bound

Possible First Round Opponents: Chicago, Detroit
Probable Playoff Finish: 2nd round

Draft Ranking: Late first round pick
Position Targeted: Forward

Free Agency and Off-Season Moves: Nashville, who is sitting comfortably in a playoff spot, made some big moves down the stretch this year to try and insure some additional playoff success. They managed to acquired Hal Gill, Paul Gaustad, and Andrei Kostitsyn before the deadline. And obviously the biggest acquisition was Alexander Radulov, who was coaxed back from Russia to join the team. Well either coaxed or came willingly due to the fact his entry-level contract is up, and he will most likely be getting a big raise this off-season. Nevertheless he is a big addition due to the fact that their top point-getter will finish around the 60-point mark. But Nashville sticks to the idiom “Defense wins championships” and in that regard they do have a shot. This off-season though is going to be a hectic one. Their offense will most likely have a new identity, with the majority of their players needing contracts, including the aforementioned Radulov. It will be a similar situation on D unless they can come to terms with Weber, Suter and newly acquired Gill, although Suter is rumoured to walk. And in goal they have the arduous task of signing future superstar Anders Lindback without really knowing if he will pan out or not. Oh, and Pekka Rinne’s new contract will take effect doubling his salary to 7 million. Good thing they have about 12 million to work with because they’re going to need it! My quick advice would be; sign Weber and Lindback (good future trade bait), offer Suter a modest contract, if he holds out for big bucks let him walk and promote Ellis, same thing with Radulov with a signing bonus for games played, let everybody else go, hit free agency, and trade Legwand and Erat for prospects or picks and recoup their 9 million.
Status Next Season: Playoff team

Team: Columbus Blue Jackets

Current Position: 15th
Probable Finish: 15th
Possible Finish: 15th
Current Status: Eagerly awaiting the draft

Possible First Round Opponents: N/A
Probable Playoff Finish: N/A

Draft Ranking: 1st overall pick
Position Targeted: Forward

Free Agency and Off-Season Moves: Where to start… This has to be the most disappointing franchise to date. They have done literally nothing in any of their 12 seasons in the league, except qualify for the playoffs once, which resulted in getting swept in four games. This is the perfect year for a fresh start. The Nash trade is imminent, and they have the first overall pick (depending on the lottery of course). That means tangible assets, hopefully. They need to rebuild (again), and for the first time I have some faith that they have the foresight to do it properly.
Status Next Season: Long shot to make the playoffs

Pacific Division

Team: Los Angeles Kings

Current Position: 9th
Probable Finish: 3rd
Possible Finish: 3rd,7th-10th
Current Status: Fighting for a spot, fighting for division lead

Possible First Round Opponents: Chicago, St. Louis, Vancouver
Probable Playoff Finish: Semi Finals

Draft Ranking: Mid-Late first round pick
Position Targeted: Best available

Free Agency and Off-Season Moves: On paper this team should be dominating, but instead they are struggling to score goals. They are currently sitting second last in the league for total goals scored by a team. Remarkably they are still sitting in 3rd place in the West. That lack of production is not going to fly in the playoffs, and management was smart enough to address the situation by bringing in Jeff Carter. He was a late addition to the team at trade deadline, and I’m not sure if it’s just his presence in the dressing room, but he has brought about a recent resurgence to the teams offense. If they can keep that momentum going they do have the talent to be a threat this postseason. Beyond July 1st, when free agency opens up, there isn’t really anything they can or need to do. They are at the cap, and basically have their whole team inked through next season. Which isn’t a bad thing because they do have all the components that make up a Stanley Cup team. They do need to work on their chemistry though to get those goals rolling in, and I think that will be their main focus this summer. A trade is a possibility, if they feel like their superstars just aren’t gelling, but it would be a lateral move.
Status Next Season: Playoff team

Team: Dallas Stars

Current Position: 7th
Probable Finish: 8th
Possible Finish: 3rd, 7th-10th
Current Status: Fighting for a spot, fighting for division lead

Possible First Round Opponents: St. Louis, Vancouver, Chicago
Probable Playoff Finish: 1st round

Draft Ranking: Mid-late first round pick
Position Targeted: Forward, best available

Free Agency and Off-Season Moves: Dallas was a bit of a surprise this year as everybody counted them out after they lost their top player last year in Brad Richards. So I think this season has been a success so far as they find themselves in that four-team battle for the last three spots. They have also seen their young talent Jamie Benn mature into a legitimate superstar. Unfortunately if they are lucky enough to sneak into a spot, I do see a quick exit for the Stars, as their opponents will be in different weight class. This offseason they do have some decisions to make, but the good thing is they are currently about 15 million below the cap. The only obvious move is giving Benn what he deserves. He is coming off of entry-level and deserves his raise. The tough decision is whether to bulk up and get back into the postseason, or rebuild around Benn and Eriksson. They are four years removed from the playoffs and have only one pick in the top ten to show for it. They can’t keep hanging out in purgatory, and need to go one way or the other. They have some aging talent that could be traded for picks if they wanted to rebuild. And they have enough cash and a few prospects that could be turned into the needed pieces to be a playoff team, but getting a top goalie might pose a problem. I don’t care either way, but for the sake of the fans in Dallas I hope they pick one!
Status Next Season: Will be fighting for a playoff spot

Team: San Jose Sharks

Current Position: 3rd
Probable Finish: 7th
Possible Finish: 3rd, 7th-10th
Current Status: Fighting for a spot, fighting for division lead

Possible First Round Opponents: Vancouver, St. Louis, Chicago
Probable Playoff Finish: 1st round

Draft Ranking: Mid-late first round pick
Position Targeted: Best Available

Free Agency and Off-Season Moves: Watching the Sharks over the past five seasons was almost as painful as watching the Buffalo Bills in the early 90’s. Every year I found myself saying “Is this finally the year?” Well, I said it again at the beginning of this season after being impressed with their off-season moves, but it looks like it will end (again) in disappointment, this year perhaps the worst of the bunch. And guess what, they will have the same team again next year. Besides a few younger guys to sign, their big guys are all locked up, and they are again at the cap. Give it one more year before stripping the team? Or will we see that big blockbuster trade this summer?
Status Next Season: Will be fighting for a playoff spot

Team: Phoenix Coyotes

Current Position: 8th
Probable Finish: 9th
Possible Finish: 3rd, 7th-10th
Current Status: Fighting for a spot, fighting for division lead

Possible First Round Opponents: St. Louis, Vancouver, Chicago
Probable Playoff Finish: 1st round

Draft Ranking: Mid-late first round pick
Position Targeted: Forward, Best Available

Free Agency and Off-Season Moves: I didn’t think Smith could do it, but here we sit on the precipice of the playoffs. I think getting in only means two more home games in which to sell tickets, but at least they’re in the mix. They also have around 10 Million in available cash, which is surprising for a team fighting for a spot, unless you look to next season. The Yotes have four of their big stars looking for contracts this spring, including their captain. I would re-up with Doan for sure, but I probably wouldn’t with anyone else. The only thing I really like bout this team is their defense. Yandle and O.E Larsson are world-class talents and good cornerstone pieces to build a team around. And that’s what I would do. Visentin is probably a couple years away, but should turn into a solid number one goaltender. So that just leaves the forward position. Right now the majority of their forwards are in their late 30’s. I would drop the dead weight, ink Doan but look to trade him down the stretch, and buy or draft a younger looking offense. It’s really only a two-year turn around.
Status Next Season: Will be fighting for a playoff spot

Team: Anaheim Ducks

Current Position: 12th
Probable Finish: 12th
Possible Finish: 12th-13th
Current Status: Awaiting the draft

Possible First Round Opponents: N/A
Probable Playoff Finish: N/A

Draft Ranking: Top 10 pick
Position Targeted: Forward

Free Agency and Off-Season Moves: To me this is the most disappointing team of the season. I really had faith that they would be a contender this year. I figured Getzlaf would stay healthy and that him and superstar linemate Corey Perry would tear up the points race. I also expected big breakout seasons from Bobby Ryan and Cam Fowler, but they too disappointed. The only Duck that really did have a good year was 41 year-old Teemu Selanne, who unbelievably leads the team in scoring! Hiller also wasn’t bad considering his return from vertigo (which sidelined him from the playoffs last year, and put his future in jeopardy), as well as the lack of support from his teammates. But he will have to be better next year, as well as the rest of the cast if they hope to return to form and compete in one of the toughest divisions in hockey. As for signings, I would shake this team up a little bit. The first thing I would do, is make sure that I get Justin Schultz signed! And I mean by any means necessary. Next, I would let Selanne retire with class, and at the top of his game. I would also let Blake, Koivu, and Hagman go, freeing up 12 million including Selanne. Everybody else of importance is already signed, but I would possibly look to shed some more cap on the back end and make room for Schultz or a defensive defenseman. Then I would look to add another top center, some grit, and some defensive players on either side of the blue line.
Status Next Season: Will be fighting for a playoff spot

Who is Bubba Watson? He's More Than a Master's Winner

Posted on by Michael Kovacs, ADMIN

For golf fans you already know about the enigma that is Bubba (given name Gerry).  For those of you who don’t spend your weekends glued to golf tourneys, let’s just take at look at this year’s winner of golf’s most prestigious prize – the Master’s.

Bubba Watson is eccentric, to say the least.  From his golf stance and swing, to his outspoken opinions on, well, everything.  His swing seems to change with every shot, as he continues to reinvent himself at every hole – it’s just how he is.  He makes no apologies for ignoring the advice of many swing coaches, and seems content to just play the game as he thinks it ought to be played.  In his words, “If I have a swing, I’ve got a shot. I’m used to the woods, I’m used to the rough.”  He is unafraid, always willing to lay it on the line.  He continues, “I just play golf. I attack. I want to hit the incredible shot, who doesn’t? It’s what you play the game for.”  Well said, Bubba.

Often considered to be golf’s “Rainman”, Watson is full of emotions and certainly doesn’t shy away from sharing them with the world.  As he tapped in to win the Master’s yesterday after a playoff with Oosthuizen, the floodgates opened as he sobbed in his mother’s arms.  Again, he’s just that kinda guy.  And as he was presented the green jacket, what do you think went through his mind?  He was enamoured with a helicopter passing by, curious as to what model it was.  As the helicopter passed by his next thought, rather than smiling for the camera, was about changing diapers on his first son, Caleb, whom he adopted with his wife, Angie.

Bubba Watson is different.  Just when athletes seem “all business, all the time”, here we have a guy that doesn’t fit that mould.  He’s the type of guy that thinks of helicopters as he is handed one of the most sought-after articles of clothing on the planet, the Green Jacket, given to only one person a year.  He’s just that kinda guy.

…and that is the last word.

NHL Draft Prospect Profile #4: Alex Galchenyuk

Posted on by Ben Kerr

Edit Drafted #3 Overall by the Montreal Canadiens.

Today we look at one of the most intriguing prospects in this years draft, the Sarnia Sting’s own Alex Galchenyuk.

Center
Born Feb 12 1994 — Milwaukee, WI
Height 6.02 — Weight 205 — Shoots L

2010-11 Sarnia Sting OHL 68 31 52 83 52 -8 — — — — —
2011-12 Sarnia Sting OHL 2 0 0 0 0 -4  6 2 2 4 -4

Galchenyuk’s name may sound Russian, but Alex was born in Milwaukee Wisconsin, and is a product of the USA. The son of a former Minor League Pro, and Belarus National Team Member Alexander Galchenyuk Sr., Alex Jr, is truly a citizen of the world. After living his early life in the USA, Galchenyuk has spent time following his father’s hockey career around the globe as it took the family to Italy, Switzerland, Germany, and Russia. The family finally moved back to the USA where Galchenyuk spent time as a 15 year old playing for the Chicago Young Americans, a U.S. based bantam club.  His background may be best described as metropolitan and Alex chose to play for Team USA in the 2011 Ivan Hlinka tournament, and has made a commitment to be a member of USA Hockey’s organization going forward.

Galchenyuk is a big dynamic centre.  He’s a very fast skater, has outstanding hands and can stick handle in a phone booth, an excellent wrist shot, good size and grit, and is committed to playing a strong 2 way game.  We really can’t say enough about this kid’s hands and stickhandling ability, it is legitimately among the best we’ve ever seen from an 18 year old prospect, his hands are just outstanding.  He’s known as a gym rat and is known to show a well above average commitment to his training, and to improving going forward.  His dedication will certainly serve him well going forward.

Galchenyuk was expected to challenge his teammate Nail Yakupov and fellow centre Mikhail Grigorenko for the #1 overall draft position when this season began.  Unfortunately he suffered a horrific ACL tear in his knee in training camp and was out for almost the whole season.  This has meant that NHL scouts have had only very limited views of him and his game and could cause him to slip in the NHL draft.

However we here at last word on sports were able to see Galchenyuk last year, and again in this year’s OHL playoffs when his Sarnia Sting unfortunately lost in 6 games to the Saginaw Spirit.  Despite the disappointing results we were very impressed with Galchenyuk.  He was dominant and even outshone teammate Nail Yakupov throughout the series.  He was at many times the best skater on the ice.  His numbers could have been a whole lot better than the 4 pts in 6 games that he produced, but only some very good goaltending by the Spirit goalies kept him off the board.   This play should answer any lingering questions about his knee, as it is clear that his speed and agility have not suffered one bit, despite the injury.

The injury and limited games played have made Galchenyuk a real wild card in this draft, and we’ve seen a number of varying ranks from different scouts.  However, we believe that there is a legitimate chance that the team that ends up drafting Galchenyuk might just end up with the best player in the 2012 NHL Draft class.  We’d compare Galchenyuk maximum potential to that of Chicago Blackhawks’ Centre Jonathan Toews.

And that’s the last word.

NHL Draft Prospect Profile #3: Ryan Murray

Posted on by Ben Kerr

Edit Drafted Number 2 overall by the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Today we profile the best defenceman in this draft class and the Number 3 overall prospect, Ryan Murray of the WHL’s Everett Silvertips.

Defense
Born Sep 27 1993 — White City, SASK
Height 6.01 — Weight 195 — Shoots L

2008-09 Everett Silvertips WHL — — — — — — 5 0 1 1 2
2009-10 Everett Silvertips WHL 52 5 22 27 31 33 7 2 5 7 2
2010-11 Everett Silvertips WHL 70 6 40 46 45 18 4 1 2 3 4
2011-12 Everett Silvertips WHL 46 9 22 31 31 4 3 2 5 0

Murray is a superb skating two-way defenceman with a ton of positives to his game.  He’s a really smart defender and his potential is to be a future top pairing shutdown guy in the NHL.  He clears the zone quickly with a smart first pass, and his excellent skating.  Murray’s skating is so fast, fluid and polished that he’s already drawn comparisons to a future Hall of Famer in Scott Niedermayer.  He has the ability, size, physicality, and willingness to handle big physical forwards and play against strong forwards. Murray also has extremely good hockey sense and seems to always make smart decisions with the puck.  He is also a natural-born leader and is seen as future NHL captain material.  Murray is also one of the oldest players in this draft as his September 1993 birthday means he will be 19 before the next NHL season starts.  This added maturity is a big reason why Murray is quite simply the most NHL ready of the defencemen in the 2012 draft class and is expected to compete for an NHL spot as early as next season.

Some have however questioned Murray’s offensive upside as he doesn’t put up the huge offensive numbers of a Morgan Reilly or Matt Dumba.  However one must remember that Murray is playing on one of the weakest offensive clubs in the WHL in the Everett Silvertips.  It is very difficult for a defenceman like him to get points when his team’s forwards don’t score.  That said, he’s an excellent skater, who can join the rush, makes pinpoint passes, and has a good hard shot.  It’s easy to see where he’ll be able to translate those tools into successful offensive weapons when playing with better players at the next level.  Murray showed his offensive potential at the 2011 IIHF U18 World Championships where he set the record for points by a defenceman in the tournament with 13 in just 7 games.  Murray definitely has the potential to develop into a pp quarterback.

Murray can be classified as an extremely “safe” pick as he will almost assuredly be an NHL player.  However the sky is also the limit on this kid’s ceiling which is why we expect he’ll be a high draft pick in Pittsburgh on June 22, 2012.  Murray could become the 25 minute per game #1 defenceman that a team will use in all situations, bringing both offence and defence to the table in the NHL.  We’d compare Murray’s potential to Ryan Suter of the Nashville Predators.

…and that is the last word.

Serie A Review of Week 30, Preview of Week 31

Posted on by Frank Giuliano

The gap at the top of the table tightened up in Week 30 of the Serie A with league leaders AC Milan still on top by 2 points. The Rossoneri travelled to Sicily to take on Catania Calcio which ended in a 1-1 draw. There was also a bit of controversy in this game where Milan had another “phantom goal” disallowed. The ball may have crossed the line, but even video replay deems the play illegible. Is it time for Instant Replay to be implemented? Should a Referee be placed behind the net as a Goal Judge? Something needs to be done.

Second place Juventus put in a 5-star performance against Napoli in Turin. The Bianconeri smashed 3 past Napoli bagging the 3 points which included an Arturo Vidal spectacular solo finish. This result pulled the Old Lady back within 2 points back of current champions Milan.

Inter new boss Andrea Stramaccioni’s first game was a success, defeating Genoa 5-4 at the San Siro. It was an eventful match which had three penalties! An applause to the Ref as all the PK calls were correct. Diego Milito scored a tripletta (hat trick) against his former club and did not celebrate.

 Fiorentina’s crisis continued as the Viola handed Chievo the game with defensive howlers.  The Flying Donkeys won 2-1. Roma edged closer to third place with a convincing win against Novara. The Stadio Olimpico in Rome was jumping. The Giallorossi scored early and often as they ran out winners with a sounding 5-2 result. Lazio is blowing their chances for finishing in third spot with a 3-1 loss in Parma. The Gialloblù are pulling out into the safe zone from relegation.

Other results are: Bologna 1-3 Palermo; Lecce 0-0 Cesena; Siena 1-0 Udinese; Cagliari 2-0 Atalanta.

Week 31 Preview

Serie A Week 31 comes a day early due to the Easter break. Let’s start off with Cagliari vs Inter. This game should be about the teams, but instead it’s about the venue. It is Cagliari’s home game but it’s being played in Trieste. The reason for this is Cagliari stadium is not safe and the Mayor doesn’t want to do anything about this. It’s all political.

Lecce welcomes Roma at the Stadio Via del Mare in Puglia. Roma is in contention for third place, but they will have to deal without Francesco Totti. The Giallorossi have been playing well recently under Coach Luis Enrique. Lecce will be aiming to win the 3 points to secure safety.

The match of the day will be played at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome where Lazio welcomes Napoli in a head-to-head battle for 3rd place. Both teams are coming off very poor performances losing to Parma and Juventus respectively.

Juventus is looking to keep pace with Milan when they travel to the Renzo Barbera Stadium to take on Palermo. The Rosanero is a hard venue to play in as Palermo boasts a respectful home record this season with 10 wins, 1 draw and 4 losses. Can the Sicilian side end the Old Lady’s undefeated streak?

A very angry Milan will host a team in crisis Fiorentina. Milan is upset with the soft penalty that was called against them in the Champions League against Barcelona at the Camp Nou that eliminated the Rossoneri from the prestigious competition. Milan now will have to fully concentrate on winning, what could be, their 19th Scudetto. Reports in Milan suggest Antonio Cassano could be back in this game. He has given the green light to continue his career after his heart surgery. Cassano has been training since January. This is a big confidence booster for Milan and the Italian National team. Bentornato Antonio Cassano!!!!!!

Other games: Udinese v Parma; Novara v Genoa; Atalanta v Siena; Chievo v Catania; Cesena v Bologna

…and that’s the last word!

NHL Draft Prospect Profile #2: Mikhail Grigorenko

Posted on by Ben Kerr

Drafted #12 Overall By Buffalo Sabres

As we continue with our draft prospect profiles, we move on to last word’s number 2 ranked prospect, Mikhail Grigorenko, of the Quebec Remparts in the QMJHL.

Centre
Born May 16 1994 Khabarovsk, Russia
Height 6.03 — Weight 195 — Shoots L

2011-12 Quebec Remparts QMJHL 59 40 45 85 12 35

Grigorenko is the big prototypical top 6 offensive centre that teams dream about when they enter the draft lottery.  He’s got the ideal size, and the offensive skill that every team in the NHL would love to have.  He has excellent vision and passing ability and will be a playmaker at the next level.  Many scouts have compared his game to Joe Thornton, as the big playmaking centre, who controls the play, can’t be knocked off the puck, and has superb vision and passing abilities.  Grigorenko however has the added dimension of an excellent wrist shot and release, he’s shown the ability to score goal.  A year in North America playing for the Quebec Remparts can only help him as it shows his adaptation to the smaller ice, to the language, and dispels some of the fears (not all) but some of the fears about the KHL.

On the negative side, some scouts have questioned his desire and say he doesn’t bring a consistent effort level on a regular basis.  He’s also very much a perimeter player and not really a physical presence despite his great size.  The Russian factor may also come into play here, however as in the case of Nail Yakupov, it is somewhat diminished by the fact Grigorenko is playing in North America.

One does have to question how true these concerns are, as here is a guy who played through a severely sprained ankle in the quarterfinals of the World Junior Championships and still played in the Semi-Final and Final for Russia.  He’s also received a ton of praise from his junior coach, Patrick Roy, for his effort level and dedication.  If we’ve learned anything about Roy over the years, he’s not the type of coach who will give this praise easily or just to soothe his players egos, see his famous rant about Mikhail Stefanovich after a playoff game in which his team WON.

The thing that cannot be denied is that Grigorenko has the skill to be a franchise changing centre in the NHL.  However the question marks will be what will keep him out of the number 1 spot on draft day.  He will however be drafted very high, and the NHL team that takes him will be hoping that the concerns are overrated or that their development staff will be able to address those question marks, and help him become the elite player he has the potential to be.

…and that is the last word.

Horseracing is Back: The Return of the Ponies to Woodbine

Posted on by Dwayne Edwards

Horse racing is back in Ontario!

Woodbine Racetrack’s opening day of live racing is Friday April 6, with a post time  of 1 PM. With 167 race days up coming in 2012, the hype of another year is sure to be a success. A few big race dates to mark on the calendar besides opening day are;

Sunday, June 3 – Woodbine Oaks

Sunday, June 24 – Queen’s Plate

Sunday, August 5 – Breeders Stakes

Sunday, September 16 – Ricoh’s Woodbine Mile and the Northern Dancer Turf

Sunday, October 14 – Pattison Canadian International, E.P. Taylor Stakes, and Nearctic Stakes.

These five events are the richest days of the meet.  The winner of these races are bringing home at least $300,000 and up to $900,000 for the winner of the Pattison International.
With a probable visit from the Queen or some or her royalty on June 24th for the Queen’s Plate, the first leg of Canadian’s Triple Crown. Canada’s premiere racetrack is a spot for people of all walks of life, whether you are just looking for a day with the family to enjoy the atmosphere of horse racing or a day with boys looking to gamble and make some cash!

The excitement is in the air, “horse people” have invested their time and money, their horses are fit, ready, training well and now it’s time. It’s Tuesday, entry day for Friday.  Trainers have their race picked out, made arrangements with the jockey’s agent and are praying for the race to fill. There’s nothing like it – that feeling you get when the announcements are being made over the loud speaker on the backside of the track. Waiting to hear how many horses are in your race, wondering which races will be used.  And the indescribable relief when you find out your horse’s race is on.

With a couple of days to go before the race, some last minute training changes take place to settle down or jack the horse up come in effect. A call to your vet, extra supplements in their feed, last minute check from the blacksmith and a little extra TLC from the groom, and before you know it, it’s race day.  Anyone in the industry will tell you the horse knows!  You cna almost see the way they carry themselves changes as the race nears beacause they, too, can sense the anticipation.  Feeling extra-strong and excited as the bridal goes on,these equine athletes know it’s their job, it’s what they love to do, and it’s time to race!

The trainer, after assuring himself the horse is in peak condition and having found the right race, now has to think of what strategy to employ given the conditions and field. Both the trainer and jockey most likely know the competition, read the racing form and have a good idea of how the race will be run. When in the paddock just before the call for “RIDERS UP!”, last minute suggestions from the trainer to jockey of how to handle the race, but ultimately with a troubled trip, the best horse does not have to win that day.

It’s kind of like any given Sunday, but in the horse world, any given race day your horse can win. As a gambler you’ve got to know this cardinal rule, that the favorite does not always win.  In fact the favorite wins less than half the time. The racing form is there as a tool to figure out which horse is coming into the race at the right time to try and decide on the best wager. It’s not easy, but once again, that feeling of winning, making good money, is why we do it.

Good luck to the gamblers, and to all horse people here in Ontario, and around North America and the globe, as 2012 will once again prove why this is The Sport of Kings.

…and that is the last word.

NHL Draft Prospect Profile #1 Nail Yakupov

Posted on by Ben Kerr

Edit: Drafted 1st overall by the Edmonton Oilers.

Leading up to the NHL Draft we here at Last Word on Sports will be bringing you draft profiles of the top prospects.

We’re gonna start at #1, with our top rated prospect, Nail Yakupov of The OHL’s Sarnia Sting.

Right Wing
Born Oct 6 1993 — Nizhnekamsk, Russia
Height 5.11 — Weight 190 — Shoots L

2010-11 Sarnia Sting OHL 65 49 52 101 71 -2
2011-12 Sarnia Sting OHL 42 31 38 69 30 15

The young Russian came to the OHL in 2010 eager to prove that he had what it takes to play a North American game and to dispel the effects of “the Russian Factor” in his future draft stock.  Needless to say, he’s excelled.

Yakupov plays a similar style to Alex Ovechkin, only not as big.  He’s a dynamic offensive force who just loves to score goals.  He’s got an excellent shot, great hands, is a super skater and plays a robust game.  Yakupov is very fast, makes excellent use of his edges, is strong on the puck, and is very agile.  He’s got elite level skating ability.  He has a laser of a shot and his one-timer is feared around the OHL.  He’s not afraid to be hit and just loves dishing it out.  He’s a threat to score every time he’s on the ice, and from nearly any area on the ice.

Last year, Yakupov beat Steven Stamkos’ team records for goals and points by a Sting Rookie.  This year he’s missed more games due to various injuries and playing in the World Juniors but he’s been even better when he does play increasing both his goals per game and points per game paces.

Yakupov used the World Junior Tourney to show another dimension with 9 assists in 6 games for Russia.  That type of production from a draft eligible player in what is typically a 19 year old’s tournament really solidified his spot as the consensus pick for Best Player Available.

The only real concern with Yakupov is his size.  However we think it won’t be a problem for him as he’s built like a tank.  He is extremely strong and powerful.  As well he’s 5’11”, which is not exactly that small, he’s no Theo Fleury or Martin St. Louis, that’s for sure.

Yakupov projects as a franchise winger, and some team will be very pleased to call his name this June.  We rank Yakupov as far and away the best player available in this year’s draft.  He should be the 1st overall pick and we don’t believe any of the other prospects are even close.  Yakupov is the real prize to be won in the NHL’s Annual Draft Lottery.

… and thats the Last Word.