Mateo’s Hoops Diary: The Soaring Pelicans

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Nothing elevates reputation in the NBA like a strong playoff showcase.   The same is true for the opposite.  Name and standing plummet at the sight of a poor exhibition much faster than the street cred earned through years of balling.

 

 In the west, the New Orleans Pelicans are tied 1-1 with the reigning conference champions Phoenix Suns now heading to NOLA for Games 3 & 4. The injury bug has raised its Medusa-like head and compromised Devin Booker for the rest of the series, making New Orleans’ job defensively much simpler with one less three-level scorer on the court.

 

Phoenix still has the ammo to get out alive in this series but losing Book to a hamstring injury makes this matchup a tossup. Cam Johnson was inserted after Booker left for the locker room following a failed fastbreak contest on Jaxson Hayes. Phoenix was outscored 48-40 in the remaining 16 minutes of the game.

 

In the fourth quarter, Chris Paul struggled to force separation without a screen and was unable to utilize his mid-range arsenal.  When CP would attack through pick ‘n’ roll with Javale McGee, Larry Nance was camped at the elbow waiting to ice the incoming ball handler, forcing Paul to give up the rock. While attempting a low volume of shots without option A (Booker), Paul mysteriously lost track of his starting big-man Deandre Ayton who took two shots in the final period.

 

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Centers are like wide receivers in football.  They are completely dependent on their quarterback feeding them the ball.  Surely, someone as gifted and knowledgeable about the game as Paul knows about the mismatch a 7-footer with a delicate touch creates near the rim.  It’s perplexing that only seven shots were attempted in the box while Paul and Ayton shared the court in close to nine minutes of closing time.

 

Even before Booker went down, NOLA and Phoenix were separated by a possession. Brandon Ingram was merciless, slipping past his defender on cuts to the hole and burying shots from outside the paint.  He registered 11 points in the first half yet powered his club to dub with 26 in the second.

 

The postseason is a grown man’s game usually dominated by veterans.  Meanwhile, the Pelicans are getting high-level production from three rookie role players through two outings.  The win on Tuesday for New Orleans saw 20 lead changes and eight ties before the younger and inexperienced team sent the crowd home with a frown.

 

Jose Alvarado is a defensive menace for any age.  It illuminates a dark light on some of the league’s scouts that someone like him, an ACC defensive Player of the Year in 2021, could go unnoticed through two rounds on draft night.   His skills as an irritant will sharpen with continued minutes against one of the league’s top guards this round.  

 

Herb Jones is another player that went too late in the draft.  Thirty-four names were called before him when he should have been picked in the lottery.  His work on the defensive side as a rookie is worthy of making an All-NBA Defensive Team.

 

One more draft night steal is Trey Murphy III.  At 21 years old he’s averaging 23 minutes a game in the playoffs and making 55% of his triples on 4.5 attempts this round. 

 

NOLA looks unrecognizable as the ninth seed they entered the play-in as.  Much of the credit belongs to first-year instructor Willie Green.  Back in December when Zion Williamson suffered a setback in his recovery, the betting chances for this team making the postseason were about as slim as a flagpole.  Now this squad is battling fiercely in the trenches with a team that had a better road record than any other club had at home.

 

A quick prayer to the basketball gods: Give us seven games.

Anton Lundell and his case for the Calder

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Florida Panthers rookie and Calder Trophy hopeful Anton Lundell

Anton Lundell fights off checker Oliver Bjorkstrand in a game against Columbus (via @FLAPanthersPR)

In a season highlighted by breakout rookie seasons across the league, Anton Lundell has managed to fly under the radar. As the season wraps up and awards conversations pick up, his name has not been mentioned enough.

Each year, the NHL awards the Calder Memorial Trophy (known colloquially as the Calder) to the best rookie performer in the NHL. Former winners include Panthers Aaron Ekblad and Johnathan Huberdeau. This year, the Panthers have yet another rookie worthy of receiving this award: Anton Lundell.

In all likelihood, Lundell will not win the Calder. The likes of Trevor Zegras, Lucas Raymond, and Moritz Seider have received too much national attention comparatively. Still, his impact matches, and maybe even exceeds, that of his peers. Hypothetically, if the league wanted to give the Calder to Lundell, this would be the case.

Anton Lundell has the raw stats

Currently, Lundell has 18 goals and 25 assists on the year. This puts him fifth among rookies with 43 points. While that may not stand out initially, keep in mind injuries have limited Lundell to 61 games this season. All the players above him have played over 70.

Additionally, Lundell averages less than 16 minutes on ice per game. Compare that to Zegras and Raymond who average about 18 minutes per game. I am ignoring Seider’s TOI numbers since defensemen typically play more minutes on average. Once the points are adjusted for ice time, the stats become eerily similar. Lundell scores 2.66 points per 60 minutes, almost a dead lock with Zegras’s 2.68 points per 60, and well above Raymond’s 2.41.

This discrepancy is a product of the team around him. The Florida Panthers have an other-worldly forward corps, which means he gets less ice time. It also means he gets no regular power play time, unlike his counterparts. Seider, Zegras, and Raymond all average over two and a half minutes of power play time a game.

Simply put, factors out of Lundell’s control contributed to the points discrepancy shown. Given the same opportunity, Lundell would match, if not exceed, the production of the other Calder contenders.

He is also a defensive specialist

When people call Anton Lundell a miniature Aleksander Barkov, this is the sticking point. On the defensive side of the puck, few rookies have been as effective as Lundell. The coaching staff has taken notice, and use him as a regular on the penalty kill.

Lundell averages almost two and a half minutes of penalty kill time per game. This number is fourth among rookies, and far more than any other rookie in the Calder race. That defensive responsibility does not show up in the box score, but should be considered in the discussion. Lundell has also notched four short-handed points this season, a top-10 mark in the league. 

This strong defensive play contributes to winning more than any single statistic can show. Lundell’s ability to shut down opposing attacks while not sacrificing any offensive output puts him in a rare class of player. His +33 rating leads all rookies by a landslide, and shows the type of impact he has on both ends of the ice.

Lundell makes those around him better

A big part of the Panthers’ dominance this season has been their forward depth. Specifically, the third line of Anton Lundell, Sam Reinhart, and Mason Marchment has been the best bottom 6 line in the entire league.

As the center of this line, Lundell controls much of the pace and flow they play with. His poise and control on the ice has played a huge part in his wingers having career years.

Sam Reinhart was already an established player before joining the Panthers. With Buffalo, Reinhart scored 20 goals and topped 50 points consistently. In his first season in Florida, however, Reinhart has reached new career highs with 28 goals and 48 assists in 73 games. His play has been stellar, but Lundell should receive credit for developing such good chemistry and putting him in places to succeed.

The same can be said about Mason Marchment, who is having a breakout year. In his first full year in the NHL, Marchment has totaled 42 points in 51 games. The 26 year old came to Florida two years ago in a trade with Toronto. After some flashes last year, Marchment has become a genuine offensive threat once the team placed him on a line with Lundell. 

As I said earlier, there is little to no chance of Anton Lundell winning the Calder. Zegras has scored too many Michigan goals, and Seider has doled out too many big hits for Lundell to be seriously considered. All of this is to say that anyone who overlooks the impact Lundell has had on the best team in the eastern conference is doing themselves a disservice. He has the most complete game of anyone in this rookie class, and for my money, should be a Calder Trophy contender.  

**This Article was originally published on ATB Network by Samuel Schetritt***

  Hussam Patel is a Miami Dolphins contributor and Lead NFL Draft analyst at Five Reasons Sports Network, Director of Scouting at PhinManiacs and Editor at Dolphins ATB. Follow him on Twitter at @HussamPatel  

Use code “FIVE” to receive a matching $100 bonus on Prizepicks

2022 NFL Mock Draft

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With the NFL Draft less than a week away we are in the final calls for mock drafts. Here is my first round of the 2022 NFL Mock Draft.

No. 1 Jacksonville Jaguars: EDGE Aidan Hutchinson, Michigan

The Jaguars re-signed Cam Robinson and signed Brandon Scherff in free agency to protect franchise quarterback Trevor Lawrence.

In this 2022 NFL Mock Draft the Jacksonville Jaguars select Aidan Hutchinson to serve as the leader of the defense and usher in a new era of Jaguars football.

No. 2 Detroit Lions: QB Malik Willis, Liberty

While the Detroit Lions still have Jared Goof as their QB, it’s likely he is not in the Lions long term plans.

Head Coach Dan Campbell wants an electric team that can run the football well and have electric passing plays. Malik Willis can do both.

No. 3 Houston Texans: OT Ikem Ekonwu, North Carolina State

A shocker as the consensus tackle is not chosen. I believe Ikem Ekonwu will be the first tackle taken in the 2022 NFL Draft.

Ekonwu fits well compared to what the Houston Texans blocking scheme calls for. A zone blocking scheme that calls for twitchy, smooth movers that can glide with excellent speed.

No. 4 New York Jets: DB, Kyle Hamilton, Notre Dame

Jets Head Coach Robert Saleh is open to taking a skill position player early if he is the right player.

“Depends on how good he is”

Robert Saleh on taking a safety early

Never say never to a unicorn like Kyle Hamilton who is the consensus number one defensive back in this years draft class. He’s a swiss army knife.

No. 5 New York Giants: EDGE Travon Walker, Georgia

This pick may upset Giants fans on this 2022 NFL Mock Draft and is a classic projection vs production debate. Walkers projection at the NFL level outweighs his production levels at Georgia.

In a crowded yet star studded defense, Walker was still a bright spot opening up opportunities for his teammates.

Travon Walkers’ traits scream high upside. He has the ability to cover running backs and tight ends, is an excellent run defender. Furthermore, Walker showcases raw power and rushing ability throughout his tape.

No. 6 Carolina Panthers: QB Matt Corral, Ole Miss

Amidst the talk about the Carolina Panthers swinging big for a quarterback, Malik Willis is already off the table. Peter Schrager of Good Morning Football says to not be surprised if the Panthers select Ole Miss quarterback Matt Corral.

Routinely we have seen quarterback needy teams bring in one to two year stop-gap veterans to make way for a franchise quarterback and Matt Rhule believes Corral is their guy.

One of the strongest arms in this years class, quick feet and pocket presence are a couple of traits the Panther organization are sold on.

No. 7 New York Giants: OT Evan Neal, Alabama

The Giants continue to build through the trenches in this mock draft. Firstly, by pairing up Azeez Ojulari and Travon Walker on the defense.

Secondly, Daniel Jones has solid pass protectors and Saquan Barkley has valuable run defenders in Andrew Thomas and Evan Neal.

The Giants could pair up both Thomas and Neal on the left side or Neal could be their starting right tackle. Either way the Giants get the consensus number one tackle with terrific value.

No. 8 Atlanta Falcons: EDGE Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon

It’s no secret the Atlanta Falcons have a pass rush problem and Kayvon Thibodeaux is just the player to mitigate it.

Thibodeauxs’ explosiveness pops out on tape and consistently performs well against the run. He brings excitement into a defense that has been lacking it

While Thibodeaux has fallen down draft boards the last few weeks, the Atlanta Falcons should not over think this selection as he is a pure pass rusher that can also defend the run.

No. 9 Seattle Seahawks: DB, Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner, Cincinnati

Ahmad Gardner is a Cover 3 zone corner and the Seahawks with Pete Carroll are known for primarily utilizing Cover 3 scheme.

Gardner should bring the length, size, speed and swagger that the Seahawks secondary has been missing since the Legion of Boom days. This should help Seattle build up their defense.

No. 10  New York Jets: WR, Drake London, USC

The Jets have made it known that they are looking to add a premier wideout into their offense to help Zach Wilson.

Drake London is just the wide receiver that fits into their offense. London is known as a deep threat and is willing to put his body on the line around the middle of the field. This bodes well for Zach Wilson’s gun slinger mentality and strong arm as London has a big catch radius.

Not only can London gain yards after the catch but he will be a important piece in LaFluer’s offense as a run blocker.

No. 11 Washington Commanders: EDGE Jermaine Johnson II, Florida State

Former “Last Chance U” start turned Senior Bowl standout Jermaine Johnson is selected by the Commanders to line up opposite of Chase Young.

He has massive upside as a pass rusher with all athletic tools you could wish for. Johnson is still relatively new to the position and was dominant in college.

I expect him to have a big impact at the next level, especially in Washington and possibly put up double-digit sack numbers

No. 12 Minnesota Vikings: CB, Derek Stingley Jr., LSU

The Minnesota Vikings are privy to drafting LSU talent and I would not doubt them picking up Stingley in the 2022 NFL Draft.

Minnesota was 22nd in passing touchdowns allowed and 28th in passing yards allowed last year. They picked up Patrick Peterson to shore up the secondary and will get stronger if Stingley is the pick.

Stingley is terrific at press man, defending against the run and explodes in space.

No. 13 Houston Texans: WR, Jameson Williams, Alabama

The possibility exists for Williams to be ready by Week 1 of the 2022 NFL season; also, it feels like a good idea for the Texans to surround Davis Mills with offensive talent.

His blazing speed and stellar route running coupled with his ability to stretch the field vertically and track the deep ball would be an electric addition to a lackluster Texans offense.

No. 14 Baltimore Ravens: OT, Charles Cross, Mississippi State

Charles Cross has elite potential as a pass protector and is one of the the best in this years class.

Yes, the Baltimore Ravens do have Ronnie Stanley, Morgan Moses and Ju’wan James on the roster; however, Stanley’s ankle injuries have been a cause for concerns.

At worst, Cross can start as a left guard and then transition into the left or right tackle position. Undoubtly, it will help Lamar Jackson to have time in the pocket to throw more.

No. 15 Philadelphia Eagles: CB, Trent McDuffie, Washington

Trent McDuffie is one of the most versatile defensive backs in this years class and a reason as to why I have the Eagles drafting him in this 2022 NFL Mock draft.

Philadelphia is lacking corners badly. He might not be the best press corner in Jonathan Gannon’s scheme, but he will be critical in their zone looks. McDuffie can be moved to safety if needed as he has safety reps from his time in Washington.

No. 16 New Orleans Saints: QB, Kenny Pickett, Pittsburgh

It’s the dawn of a new era in the bayou. The Saints are rumored to have interest in Kenny Pickett as their potential franchise quarterback.

Pickett possesses a good arm and is capable of making most NFL throw easily. The Panthers product fits the Saints offensive system as he can drive the deep ball out to the sideline from the opposite hash and has no problem threading the needle between closing defenders.

No. 17 Los Angeles Chargers: WR, Garrett Wilson, Ohio State

The Chargers always seem to have the best luck in best players avaliable. This time the Chargers fill a need and get one of the best route runners in the draft.

Wilson is a dynamic prospect at the receiver position that leverages his athleticism with equal success when the ball is in his hands. Helps that Justin Herbert is his quarterback.

No. 18 Philadelphia Eagles: EDGE, George Karlaftis, Purdue

Philadelphia has hosted numerous pass rush prospects for their private workouts and it is no secret they are looking to draft an EDGE rusher.

Karlaftis was not eye-opening on the stat sheet but his film speaks for himself. Routinely, the Boilermaker product would be double teamed. Thus, allowing other teammates to be free and make plays on the quarterback and backfield.

He is an athletic EDGE rusher than can play inside and outside, the Eagles could use his versatility to create opportunities on defense.

No 19. New Orleans Saints: OT, Trevor Penning, Northern Iowa

After the loss of Terron Armstead in free agency, the Saints select Trevor Penning in this 2022 NFL Mock draft.

Penning is a massive human with prototype traits to be a starting left tackle in the NFL. He’s athletic enough to be a starting left tackle and strong enough to be a right tackle.

While Penning is not the best pass protector just yet, he’s a mauler in the run game which could benefit the Saints backfield and Kenny Pickett.

No 20. Pittsburgh Steelers: iOL, Zion Johnson, Boston College

Lots of noise coming out that the Pittsburgh Steelers are rumored to select Desmond Ridder at the 20th pick.

The smart route would be to solidify the interior offensive line to help Najee Harris and the running game before drafting a rookie quarterback.

Pittsburghs key decision makers met with Johnson at the senior bowl a whopping five times. Johnsons’ versatility is a major plus for a Steelers team that is trying to solidify the trenches.

No 21. New England Patriots: CB, Andrew Booth Jr., Clemson

Drafting a cornerback seems like a relatively safe bet for the New England Patriots. Considering they lost J.C. Jackson in free agency and Stephon Gilmore last season, Andrew Booth is a perfect injection to their secondary.

The Tiger product is a terrific press man corner that fits in Belichicks cover 1 scheme. Booth is physical, plays the ball well and has the potential to be left on an island early on his career.

No 22. Green Bay Packers: WR, Treylon Burks, Arkansas

Treylon Burks visited the Green Bay Packers for an individual workout, and history shows that the Packers draft players they usually bring in for workouts.

Green Bay has an obvious need at the pass catching position following the loss of MVS and the trade of Davante Adams.

Burks brings the YAC ability Aaron Rodgers has been missing since 2008 and a big bodied big play target.

No 23. Arizona Cardinals: iOL, Tyler Linderbaum, Iowa

Regardless of the fact that the Cardinals should extend Kyler Murray, Linderbaum would be the best pick if the board falls this way.

Linderbaum solidifies the interior offensive line and can be a replacement for Rodney Hudson. The Cardinals value flexibility along the offensive line and the Hawkeye product could play guard and then transition to the center position.

No 24. Dallas Cowboys: iOL, Kenyon Green, Texas A&M

Kenyon Green has played all over the offensive line as an Aggie and it makes him a versatile weapon.

“Being able to play everything isn’t just to help you, but it’s also to helps your team out”

Kenyon Green

The Cowboys released La’el Collins and lost Conor Williams in free agency leaving a guard and a tackle spot open. Cowboys owner/general manager Jerry Jones said offensive line help is likely to be a target somewhere in the first three rounds.

Green has all the potential in the world – he has elite strength, is very quick for his size, and has tremendous drive in the running game

No 25. Buffalo Bills: CB, Kaiir Elam, Florida

Sean McDermott and Leslie Frazier’s cornerbacks are meant to be tall, long and physical cornerbacks.

Elam has all of those traits and is suited towards a zone scheme, which the Buffalo Bills run.

Levi Wallace left to Pittsburgh in free agency which leaves up a hole opposite Tredavious White. Elam would be a solid CB2 and the Bills staff will be able to coach up his inconsistencies.

No 26. Tennessee Titans: LB, Devin Lloyd, Utah

While the Titans don’t have any pressing needs and opt for the best player available.

Picture Devin Lloyd, a fast, hard hitting linebacker, who wraps well, and an excellent pass rusher on the edge, next to Jayon Brown and Rashaan Evans.

Lloyd can produce downhill and make plays in coverage, solidifying the linebacker core in Tennessee.

No 27. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: DL, Jordan Davis, Georgia

The Bucs’ four-man rush wasn’t the most effective in 2021. Per Sports Info Solutions, the Buccaneers defense was 17th in sack percentage when rushing four defenders and 29th in pressure rate (17.2%) when rushing four defensive linemen.

This is where Jordan Davis comes into play. Davis, while a powerful defensive tackle can also beat people with speed in quickness inside the interior gaps.

A massive human such as Davis can engulf multiple blockers allowing teammates to get after the quarterback.

No 28. Green Bay Packers: OL, Bernhard Raimann, Central Michigan

In this 2022 NFL Mock draft, the Green Bay Packers select Ramann to to play along their offensive line.

The Packers may not have Elgton Jenkins by the time the season starts so Raimann can play tackle and move to guard to gain more experience.

No 29. Kansas City Chiefs: WR, Jahan Dotson, Penn State

The Chiefs will look to draft a wide receiver after losing Byron Pringle and Tyreek Hill.

Jahan Dotson just gets open and is one of the better deep threats in this years draft class. He’s been productive with below average quarterback play.

Routinely, Dotson has shown the ability to make tough acrobatic catches. He’s got great burst, is an excellent route-runner, has dependable hands, and comes back to the ball well.

No 30. Kansas City Chiefs: DT, Travis Jones, Connecticut

With back to back first round picks, the Chiefs elect to shore up their run defense in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft by drafting Senior Bowl Standout Travis Jones.

Kansas city has had their run game woes on defense and Travis Jones solves those issues.

No 31. Cincinnati Bengals: OT, Tyler Smith, Tulsa

We saw the Bengals reach the super bowl with a below average offensive line. Tyler Smith is an ultra-aggressive mauler and a nasty streak along in pass protection and run blocking.

He’ll help to protect Joe Burrow to get back to the Super Bowl.

No 32. Detroit Lions: OLB, Nakobe Dean, Georgia

Nakobe Dean will be a culture changer in Detroit and someone Dan Campbell will love to have.

The Bulldog product is a matchup weapon on defense that can be utilized as a pass rusher, run defender and coverage linebacker.

**This Article was originally published on ATB Network***

 

Hussam Patel is a Miami Dolphins contributor and Lead NFL Draft analyst at Five Reasons Sports Network, Director of Scouting at PhinManiacs and Editor at Dolphins ATB. Follow him on Twitter at @HussamPatel

 

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2022 Miami Dolphins Mock Draft

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The Miami Dolphins have four draft picks in the 2022 NFL Draft. Compared to previous years draft this year’s draft may not be as exciting as the team does not have any first or second round picks.

Kansas City and Miami agreed to trade terms for Tyreek Hill. Hill now a Miami Dolphin was worth several draft picks: first-round pick, second-round pick and fourth-round pick in 2022 and a fourth-round pick and sixth-round pick in 2023

The Dolphins can still add valuable players to their 2022 roster through the rest of their draft picks, it’s time for my first 2022 Miami Dolphins mock draft.

Round 3, Pick 102

With the first selection in this 2022 Mock draft, the Miami Dolphins select:

Cole Strange, iOL, Tennessee-Chattanooga

Coming into the draft as one of the few “smaller school” prospects, Strange is valued by many in NFL Circles. At 6-foot-5 and 307 pounds Cole Strange is an ideal fit for many offensive line coaches. As a senior in 2021 Strange started all 11 games, 9 at LG and 2 at LT.

Scouting Report: Strength

A smooth mover and covers a lot of ground, mirrors rushers well; agile and keeps his feet moving. Really good change of direction. Gets into space quickly and efficiently on screens and the outside zone running game.

Strange has the versatility to play all along the line – spent time at LT and LG. The Chattanooga product also has the skills and smarts to play center, had reps at center during the senior bowl. Has good footwork and technique. Balanced and agile pass protection set with excellent hand placement.

Was one of the most consistent college pass blockers in 2021 – has shown significant development every playing year and dominance in the run game.

Scouting Report: Weakness

Been beaten off the edge coming out of his stance lunging to reach speedy rushers. Doesn’t take the best of angles in pass protection – resulting in some missed blocks and trying to regain balance.

Flashes the ability to move his man with his hands, but is not yet consistent in this area. Needs to work on his technique in pass protection and using more consistent leverage.

Round 4, Pick 125

With the second selection in this 2022 Mock draft, the Miami Dolphins select:

Troy Anderson, LB, Montana State

Troy Andersen was one of the most versatile players in college football playing quarterback, running back, linebacker, safety and punter at the FCS level.  

Scouting Report: Strength

Combination of size, length, and agility makes him a secure tackler in space. Really good as a free blitzer.

Excellent in coverage – has experience at safety and shows on film. Mirrors with tight ends and receivers in the slot with good straight-line speed and change-of-direction ability for his size.

Shows patience and rarely be fooled by play-action or misdirection. Quick to read run, showing good agility and speed to get past blockers and finish.

Good run defender, able to rush through blockers and blow plays up in the backfield, good lateral agility and finishes with a big hit.

Scouting report: Weakness

Only has two years’ worth of experience at the position, needs technique refinement.

Has the speed and coverage skills to play SAM and WILL positions but will need to bulk up to be an impactful MIKE at the next level.

Gets swallowed up by offensive linemen and needs to improve his ability to stack and shed blockers in addition to keeping them from latching on.

Round 7, Pick 224

With the third selection in this 2022 Mock draft, the Miami Dolphins select:

Zyon McCollum, CB, Sam Houston State

McCollum is a ball-hawking FCS cornerback with outstanding combination of size and athletic traits for the next level. He put up crazy testing numbers at the NFL Combine. McCollum plays with good physicality in coverage and utilizes his size well.

Scouting Report: Strength

NFL-caliber coverage skills. Quick backpedal with fluid hip turns to cover receivers down the field. Willingly makes big hits uses closing speed to reduce yards gaines. Can make the transition as a potential safety. 

Attacks the ball with authority, good vision and hand placement shows playmaking ability, quick to read-and-react

Has the foot speed and length to stay with slot receivers in spread sets. Flashes toughness and aggressive nature against the run

Scouting report: Weakness

Lean, athletic build with plenty of room for additional muscle mass which means he needs to add more weight to play in the NFL.

Needs to get stronger. Too easily lost in blocking piles. Not a quick twitch athlete and shows body stiffness when needing to quickly redirect in the short zone. Early hip turn when playing press and inconsistent footwork when trying to redirect.

Round 7, Pick 247

With the fourth selection in this 2022 Mock draft, the Miami Dolphins select:

Amare Barno, EDGE, Virginia Tech

Barno is a Virgina Tech prospect who primarily played as an off-ball linebacker before transitioning into an EDGE rusher. High-ceiling, low-floor EDGE prospect with fascinating traits galore but needs technical refinement.

Scouting Report: Strengths

At 6’4 5/8″, the Hokie prospect bodes a lean frame with great length in his upper body. Those long arms allow him to get in the first punch against offensive linemen.

Challenges inside with quickness and strong hands. Quick run defender and lowkey closing speed who does not give up big plays. 

Relentless pursuit, tracks down ball carriers across the field. Plays with a good, balanced base. Helps him stay upright despite average strength

Scouting report: Weakness

Barno’s pass-rushing package is limited as he is still raw. He does not have distinguishing traits and moves to lean on.

His play strength is lacking. While in some reps he may do everything right technique-wise, stronger blockers clear him out of the way.

Still needs pass rush development, does not have the explosiveness or quickness to be a playmaker yet, traits are there. 

 

***This Article was originally published on PhinManiacs***

Hussam Patel is a Miami Dolphins contributor and Lead NFL Draft analyst at Five Reasons Sports Network, Director of Scouting at PhinManiacs and Editor at Dolphins ATB. Follow him on Twitter at @HussamPatel

 

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The 5RSN and 5RSN Follower NBA Awards Ballot

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Preseason Predictions

 

We’ve finally reached the end of a six month regular season race.  But before we move into the postseason, we wanted to look back at our preseason predictions and look forward to the upcoming regular season awards.  

 

Prior to the start of the season, fourteen Five Reasons contributors made their predictions and looking back…we were wrong!  None of our “experts” predicted the Miami Heat to finish as the #1 seed.  In fact, only Tony Schwartz, Royal A. Shepherd, and Mateo Mayorga had the “guts” to pick Miami as the #2 seed.  To no surprise of Before Floor viewers, Ricky J. Marc had Miami the lowest as a #5 seed!  

 

Leading our contributors was Kendale who proved he’s “one of them ones” when it comes to predictions.  He correctly forecast the seeds of Boston, Philadelphia, Chicago, and Phoenix.  Only Ricky, Brady Hawk, Gadiel Cartagena, Toine, and myself had two correct picks in our seeding predictions.  

 

Even worse?  Nearly all of our contributors fell into the Lakers trap.  Ten of the fourteen had the Lakers in the Western Conference Finals.  Nine of them had the Lakers in the Finals.  Five of them had the Lakers celebrating with the Larry O’Brien trophy.  We missed more than Russell Westbrook’s jump shot this season!

 

Were there ANY good predictions by this crew of misfit contributors?  Everyone had some combination of Miami, Milwaukee and Brooklyn in the East Finals which looks very promising.  Brady Hawk predicted a battle of the #1 seeds with the Suns beating the Heat in the Finals.  Eight of our contributors correctly assumed the Kings would be the Kings and be the first team to fire their coach this season when they relieved Luke Walton of his duties.  The panel also correctly named many of the big names who would be traded this season – including Ben Simmons, CJ McCollum, and Domantas Sabonis.  

 

******

 

Postseason Awards

In the final week of the season, 11 Five Reasons contributors and 160 listeners cast their votes for the postseason awards.

 

5RSN MVP:  Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks

5RSN Fan MVP:  Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets

No surprises in the top three for the MVP race, but our contributors gave Giannis more 1st place votes than Jokic or Embiid.  Jokic took a majority of the 2nd place votes to fall just two points shy of the MVP.  Five Reasons experts confirmed Embiid’s belief that “the media hates me” by voting him 3rd in the poll.  

On the fan ballot, Nikola Jokic was voted as the back-to-back MVP.  Jokic led the way in 1st place votes (69) by a significant margin, followed by Giannis (45) and Embiid (37).  In total, Jokic (1,188 points), Giannis (1,049 points), and Embiid (1,035 points).

 

PLAYER 1st (10 pt) 2nd (7 pt) 3rd (5 pt) 4th (3 pt) 5th (1 pt) TOTAL
Giannis 5 2 4 – – 84
Jokic 3 6 2 – – 82
Embiid 3 3 5 – – 76
Booker – – – 7 3 24
Doncic – – – 4 4 16
Morant – – – – 3 3
Tatum – – – – 1 1

 

5RSN Rookie of the Year: Scottie Barnes, Toronto Raptors

5RSN Fan Rookie of the Year: Scottie Barnes, Toronto Raptors

 

In our contributors’ vote, Scottie Barnes narrowly edged out Evan Mobley for the Rookie of the Year.  Cade Cunningham finished third, and both Herb Jones and Jalen Green received one vote each.  

 

In the fan vote, Scottie also took Rookie of the Year.  The finish was similarly close with Barnes (552), Mobley (522) and Cunningham (316) finishing in the top 3.

 

PLAYER 1st (5 pts) 2nd (3 pts) 3rd (1 pt) TOTAL
Barnes 6 3 1 40
Mobley 4 4 3 35
Cunningham 1 4 5 22
H. Jones – – 1 1
J. Green – – 1 1

 

5RSN Defensive Player of the Year: Bam Adebayo, Miami Heat

5RSN Fan Defensive Player of the Year: Bam Adebayo, Miami Heat

 

In no surprise, the contributors’ vote picked Bam Adebayo as their Defensive Player of the Year.  The vote is being investigated after one contributor managed to vote Bam for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd on their ballot, but nonetheless, it was a landslide victory over Marcus Smart.  In similar fashion, Bam dominated the fan vote with 151 of the 160 1st place votes.  

 

PLAYER 1st (5 pts) 2nd (3 pts) 3rd (1 pt) TOTAL
Bam 10 2 1 57
Smart – 3 4 13
Bridges – 2 2 8
Giannis – 2 1 7
Gobert 1 – 1 6
R. Williams – 1 – 3
Embiid – 1 – 3
Jackson Jr. – – 1 1
Draymond – – 1 1

 

5RSN Most Improved Player: Dejounte Murray, Spurs

5RSN Fan Most Improved Player: Ja Morant, Grizzlies

 

In our contributors’ vote, Dejounte Murray (32) edged out Ja Morant (28) despite Ja receiving the most 1st place votes.  With Morant only appearing on six of the ballots, it appears that some may have discounted the former #2 pick and Rookie of the Year in their “most improved” criteria.  However, on the fan ballot Ja Morant (330 points) won the award and led with 52 1st place votes.  Darius Garland (280) finished second, Tyler Herro (236) third, and Dejounte Murray (222) fourth overall.  

 

PLAYER 1st (5 pts) 2nd (3 pts) 3rd (1 pt) TOTAL
Murray 3 5 2 32
Morant 5 1 – 28
Garland 3 2 3 24
Poole – 2 2 8
Miles Bridges – 1 – 3
Herro – – 2 2
Bane – – 2 2

 

5RSN Sixth Man of the Year: Tyler Herro, Miami Heat

5RSN Fan Sixth Man of the Year: Tyler Herro, Miami Heat

 

In no surprise, Tyler Herro dominated the Sixth Man of the Year vote on both ballots.  Tyler received 99.4% of the 1st place fan votes – and we are currently investigating the single vote that was cast for Kevin Love that kept the award from being unanimous.  On the contributors’ ballot, Tyler received all 11 1st place votes.  Similar to the DPOY vote, he also managed to receive 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place votes from one of our contributors – but we will allow it when Tyler is such an overwhelming favorite.

 

PLAYER 1st (5 pts) 2nd (3 pts) 3rd (1 pt) TOTAL
Tyler 11 1 1 59
Love – 6 3 21
C. Johnson – 4 5 17
Clarkson – – 1 1
Oubre Jr. – – 1 1

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5RSN Co-Coach of the Year: Erik Spoelstra & Monty Williams

5RSN Fan Coach of the Year: Erik Spoelstra

 

In the fan ballot, Erik Spoelstra (689 points) received 108 first place votes as he cruised to his first Coach of the Year award, followed by Monty Williams (417 points) and Taylor Jenkins (205 points).  On the contributors ballot, there was a tie between Spoelstra and Williams.  After reviewing the by-laws, the 7th tie-breaker was Greg Sylvander’s vote powered by #HeatCulture to give Spo the edge.  

 

PLAYER 1st (5 pts) 2nd (3 pts) 3rd (1 pt) TOTAL
Spoelstra 5 5 1 41
Monty 4 3 4 41
Jenkins 2 3 4 23
Bickerstaff – – 1 1
Udoka – – 1 1

 

The Miami Dolphins are back to having fun

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As the Miami Dolphins head back to the facility for their offseason program, there seems to be a common theme among players and coaches. That being the fun, lighthearted nature of coach Mike McDaniel.

 

“It’s more like… fun.” Emmanuel Ogbah on the differences of having Mike McDaniel as Head Coach.

At first glance, it would appear the Dolphins, specifically on defense, enjoyed their time under Brian Flores. Rattling off back to back winning seasons was quite the accomplishment, and much of it came on the back of the defensive unit. An opportunistic bunch with a knack for timely turnovers and sacks was able to drag a lackluster offense to two of their best seasons in recent memory.

However, it was clear that the other side of the ball wasn’t improving, and Flores’ no nonsense attitude was wearing on players. When the “Patriot Way” isn’t winning postseason games (or getting you there in the first place), then it all falls apart.

Mike McDaniel, however, had a clear goal coming into this offseason: keep the defense intact while bringing in players and staff who can get their offense back to being competent for the first time since Dan Marino was under center.

New Acquisitions

McDaniel came in with aggression, quickly bringing in major acquisitions in the free agency period. Namely, signing All-Pro tackle Terron Armstead and trading for the NFL’s most explosive receiver Tyreek Hill showed determination. Along with that, depth pieces and other upgrades, such as Cedrick Wilson Jr., Raheem Mostert, and Chase Edmonds are sure to give Miami a more dynamic unit.

This was a clear issue under the previous regime. Brian Flores showed an unwillingness to go after free agents, leading to an offense bereft of talent. They also brought in familiar faces and rising stars in the coaching room. Patrick Surtain, Sam Madison, and Wes Welker, all former Dolphins players, will be taking on the reigns as assistant coaches. There have even been jokes about whether the assistants will run one-on-ones in practice, which is yet to be seen.

Keeping Your Best Players Happy

However, this was all on-paper, and if players are unable to get along with the coach, then it all goes downhill. Miami’s previous two coaches alienated players from one side of the ball, and it was up to McDaniel to show he won’t make the same mistake.

How would he do that? By paying Miami’s premier defenders. Xavien Howard and Emmanuel Ogbah, two of Miami’s best defensive playmakers, received extensions to remain in the aqua and orange.

Unlike Flores, McDaniel’s regime didn’t let these contracts linger, as they made sure to keep the best players happy. It’s important to make a strong first impression, and the new coaching has definitely done just that.

Fun Off the Field

However, McDaniel’s connection with Miami’s fanbase has been just as strong. Dolphins fans across social media noted the former OC’s stellar press conferences, which always included witty remarks. Thus, he struck a cord with those who wanted a more lively candidate at the helm. It’s clear that the wit and humor has remained in Miami, along with the lighthearted interactions with fans and media. 

The Bottom Line on Miami Dolphins and Their Fun Offseason

On paper, the Dolphins look to be much more fun than years past. The offensive line is vastly improved, appearing much more able to support Mike McDaniel’s outside zone scheme. This would give the support needed to quarterback Tua Tagovailoa needed to get the ball to his new dynamic duo at wide receiver.

On top of that, a defense that ranks among the top of the league in turnovers is still intact. Although many thought Xavien Howard or Emmanuel Ogbah might not be retained, they are both back for the foreseeable future. They even found a way to acquire one of the league’s most fun-to-watch wide receivers in Tyreek Hill. One whose ability after the catch is unmatched, and appears to be a great fit in their scheme.

However, the X’s and O’s only begin to describe this new era for the Miami Dolphins. New Head Coach Mike McDaniel brings an aura that Dolphins fans and players haven’t seen in a long time. It is this hope, humor, and… fun, that has eluded this fanbase for decades, and comes back in it’s newest form. While we are unsure of how good the Miami Dolphins will be, it’s clear that something has changed this offseason.

We can expect coaches, players, and fans alike to be having a lot more fun in the years to come.  

 

*** This story was originally published on the ATB Network by Tyler DeSena***

 

Hussam Patel is a Miami Dolphins contributor and Lead NFL Draft analyst at Five Reasons Sports Network, Director of Scouting at PhinManiacs and Editor at Dolphins ATB. Follow him on Twitter at @HussamPatel  

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Mateo’s Hoop Diary: End of the Fake Show

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I didn’t know it then, but Rajon Rondo pointing a finger gun at a courtside fan foreshadowed the season that had yet come for the Lakers: a total embarrassment. Five and a half months later, with three games left on the calendar, LA was officially extinguished from Play-in contention in their trip to the desert by Devin Booker and co.  Rondo was lucky enough to get shipped out of town in January.

 

It makes it sweeter that Phoenix was the outfit that derailed LA’s chances of playing in the money grab games, excuse me, Play-in Tournament.  Just over two weeks ago Anthony Davis took a cheap shot responding to a question in a presser when he said that last year’s first-round between the two teams was decided by injury.  “It was… They got away with one,” Davis said. 

 

It was tone-deaf.  The Lakers must be living in the past if they think they are every bit as powerful as they were on a neutral fielded bubble two seasons ago.  And if they don’t think so privately, it’s worthless to front for the camera.  The painful reality of this group was obvious back in November that it was a poorly constructed roster not built to handle adversity.

 

Davis even went as far as to say the team had more starting lineups than wins.  He wasn’t lying. The Brittle Brothers (Davis, James) couldn’t stay on the court for more than 21 games next to Russell Westbrook, but the excuse is “soft like Charmin,” as Kobe Bryant once said.

 

Some media members, factions of fans, and according to the streets, degenerate gamblers everywhere held out hope that at some point, the King, in his ultimate wisdom, would find a way to kickstart this group into contention.  For the record, I made a break for the fire escape back in January.

 

Unless management sets up the greatest raid in league history to offload Westbrook for some pieces that will comfortably acquiesce to James and Davis’ playstyles, there could be an encore next year for the purple and mold.  My sources tell me, the chances of an equitable trade are about as low as the bar to hold a congressional chair in Florida (see Matt Gaetz). 

 

Getting rid of Westbrook will not solve every issue.  The Fakeshow will need a coach, as Frank Vogel is expected to be the first casualty on the team after Denver ends LA’s misery.  He’s already speaking to the press like he expects to clean out his office no later than the end of next week.  

 

A message to whoever is left in charge after the season: Good luck finding a new instructor who can turn the sour grapes of this team into wine.  James is unwilling to guard his man or closeout on each possession so that he keeps fresh legs for offense.  Davis is reluctant to play the 5, limiting the room for cuts to the basket.  And Westbrook needs to lead his four other teammates in time with the ball to be effective on the court.

 

It needs to start with James. A squad cannot win if its best player will not commit to guarding the opponent.  His age doesn’t give him a pass here, no matter how dazzling his strikes against the rim are in hot pursuit of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s all-time scoring record.

 

If James won’t sacrifice his numbers and guard his man, why should his teammates?  I’m old enough to remember Tim Duncan at 37 years old neutralizing Chris Bosh from the field in Game 7 of the 2013 Finals.  With James’ athletic superiority over most of the league even at his advanced age in basketball years, there’s still a possibility that he can return to being a pivotal defender if he starts trusting AD and Russ to do more of the heavy lifting on offense.

 

The only way James will be able to do that is if he accepts he’s no longer the player he once was.

How Tyreek Hill can excel as a running back in Miami’s offense

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To the surprise of many, the Kansas City Chiefs placed star wide receiver Tyreek Hill on the trade block this offseason. The Miami Dolphins and their longtime AFC East rival – the New York Jets – were reported as the two frontrunners in trade discussions.

The Dolphins won these sweepstakes, sending a first, second and fourth-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, along with a fourth and six-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, to the Chiefs in return for the services of the six-time NFL Pro Bowler. Miami then gave Hill a four-year extension worth up to $120 million with $72.2 million guaranteed.

Hill has proven throughout his six-year career to be one of the most explosive offensive weapons the league has ever seen. He has terrorized NFL defenses, whether it is in the vertical passing game with his ability to get behind safeties on deep post and fly routes or his knack for picking up yards after the catch on short and intermediate routes.

This terror also extends to the run game, where Hill has been effective in small sample sizes.

Hill played mostly at running back in his one season at Oklahoma State, recording 534 rushing yards on 5.2 yards per carry. His 5-foot-8, 185-pound stature limited his success on inside hand-offs, but outside the tackle box, he was a big-play threat.
Once Hill was able to advance to the second and third level of defenses, he was a nightmare to bring down.

Kansas City drafted Hill in the fifth round of the 2016 NFL Draft as a gadget player. He found an immediate role on the team as a special teams ace, scoring on one kick-off and two punt returns for touchdowns. The rookie was honored as a first-team NFL All-Pro member as a punt returner.

The 2016 season was also Hill’s most noteworthy as a running back, racking up 267 yards on 24 carries. He has still been used in the run game since then, but this utilization has been more infrequent. Hill has not surpassed the number of rushing attempts he received in his rookie year.

Under new Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel, this very well could change. Hill has drawn comparisons to 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel, who was a key cog in San Francisco’s run game while McDaniel was a coach there.

“As far as exact ways we’ll use Tyreek Hill relative to the way Deebo Samuel was used in San Francisco, there’s probably going to be some overlap to some degree on San Francisco,” McDaniel said at the NFL Annual Meeting.

“Deebo Samuel evolved into that role because of circumstance,” McDaniel continued. “I expect there will be no difference really with Tyreek. We’re going to start with the foundational elements of the receiver position, but I promise you we’re not going to limit or — we’re going to continue the process of developing him and the Miami Dolphins football team.”

While Samuel was used as a between-the-tackles running back given his bulkier size, Hill projects more as a player who can damage defenses on outside sweeps and tosses. Both the sweep and the toss are foundational in McDaniel’s run scheme.

Hill’s ability to pressure defenses out of the backfield is not limited to just the run game. In San Francisco, the offenses that Mike McDaniel helped lead threw to the running backs a lot. The Niners targeted backs on 135 passes in 2020.

A wideout like Hill, who has gained over 6,600 receiving yards throughout his NFL career, would be a dangerous threat if used in that way.

The three-time All-Pro will play primarily at wide receiver for the Dolphins, but there are some imaginative and creative ways for him to get the ball aside from just at that position. At running back, a role in which he already has experience playing, Hill has the potential to take Miami’s offense to another level.

 

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The Miami Dolphins are setting up for a big 2023 Offseason

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After dealing DeVante Parker to the New England Patriots in an active off-season, the Miami Dolphins now have five picks in the first three rounds of the 2023 NFL draft.

Through making several deals since Chris Grier became Miami’s GM, the Dolphins have found a way to build their team through the draft, while maintaining the capital to make big moves. For example, Grier was able to trade for wide receiver Tyreek Hill without giving up any major picks in 2023.

Furthermore, Miami is able to make a run with the current roster, while creating the best-case scenario if this year doesn’t work out. More specifically, they have created three distinct possibilities that cover just about every reasonable outcome. All three of which hinge on Tua Tagovailoa, and will play out differently depending on his performance.  

Solidifying a Contender

If the Dolphins, and more importantly Tua Tagovailoa, perform well this year, Miami is left with myriad options with their draft picks. Much like they did with Tyreek Hill, they have the potential to go out and continue their “win now” approach. Every year, a new veteran becomes available, and it may come down to who is willing to bid the most.

Miami is in a position, through these trades, to outbid just about every team.

These picks, however, could also be used in the draft. While Miami’s roster is the best it’s been in years, there are still some holes and depth issues.

Miami could opt for quantity over one quality player, stacking the spots on the team that need work. This approach would signal a further confidence in Tagovailoa, who would have to perform for this to work.

However, if his production warrants it, Miami could stack the deck for years to come.  

Pursuing a Rookie Quarterback

The other two options would admit failure for Tagovailoa, who has been inconsistent over his first two seasons. However, Miami has an insurance policy for him, and it may be put to use if he fails this season. Miami, having five premium picks next year, is in good shape in a draft filled with premium quarterback talent. Going into this season, the 2023 quarterback class appears to be the strongest in some time. Bryce Young, CJ Stroud, and University of Miami QB Tyler Van Dyke highlight a deep and talented class. If Miami believes that one of these signal-callers could succeed in their scheme, they have the ammo to move up for one of them.

While it seems intriguing, this option has its risks. Miami would be banking on yet another young, unproven quarterback to succeed in ways they haven’t seen since Dan Marino. With a roster that’s ready to compete, this could set the timeline back even longer, and may be unlikely as owner Stephen Ross continues to age towards retirement.  

Blockbuster Quarterback Trades

The last, and potentially most exciting option for the 2023 Miami Dolphins comes — yet again — in pursuing a quarterback. However, it makes much more sense for Miami to go after a veteran if Tua doesn’t work out.

Miami has several veterans who are in their prime, such as Tyreek Hill and Terron Armstead. Thus, it’s crucial to maximize their championship window, which may be closed by the time a rookie is ready.

Thus, Miami may look to acquire a quarterback from another team, much like the Broncos and Browns did this off-season. While this is all speculation, there are a few star quarterbacks who could become available next year. Lamar Jackson, who intrigued Stephen Ross in 2018, has yet to sign an extension and would be a free agent if he doesn’t do so.

Kyler Murray is also a possibility, as his discontent with the Cardinals organization began to show this off-season. If they have yet another lackluster season with Murray and Kingsbury, there is potential for the young quarterback to request a trade.

There is also the option of a wild-card whose team doesn’t perform to expectations. With so much talent in the AFC, some teams are bound to not make the playoffs, which could leave fringe teams with unhappy quarterbacks who would rather play with one of the league’s most opportunistic defenses and best young cores.  

The Bottom Line on the Miami Dolphins and the 2023 Off-season

While these potential moves are just conjecture, it’s clear the team has made moves to position themselves nicely. Continuing to feed off the blockbuster Laremy Tunsil trade, the Miami Dolphins find themselves in a positive situation for 2023, and beyond.

New head coach Mike McDaniel looks promising, and the roster as undergone major improvement since his arrival. Dolphins fans have much to be happy about currently, and the possibilities continue to grow in the coming years.  

 

*** This story was originally published on the ATB Network by Tyler DeSena***

 

 Hussam Patel is a Miami Dolphins contributor and Lead NFL Draft analyst at Five Reasons Sports Network, Director of Scouting at PhinManiacs and Editor at Dolphins ATB. Follow him on Twitter at @HussamPatel  

 

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Opening Day is baseball’s day of romantic fantasy

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Opening Day

It’s the first of 162 games, but it feels much more special than that.

It’s the first date of a long relationship between baseball and its fans, a day when magic happens. Reality will set in the next day but for teams like the Kansas City Royals, St. Louis Cardinals and Arizona Diamondbacks, this day belonged to them. 

The Diamondbacks were staring down the barrel of a 2-0 defeat at the hands of a San Diego Padres team with playoff aspirations. Yu Darvish went six innings without a hit and manager Bob Melvin felt that the bullpen could finish the job. For two innings, he was right. 

The 35,508 fans at Chase Field who didn’t give up and left the ballpark early got their money’s worth at the end and were witnesses to a four-run ninth inning rally that was punctuated with a three-run walk-off home run by a barrel of a man named Seth Beer. It just so happened to be National Beer Day. 

Opening Day in Arizona also marked the 20th season of pitcher Oliver Perez’s career. Only one player has been in the big leagues longer than Perez and he began his final season where it all started. 

Albert Pujols last played for the St. Louis Cardinals during their surprising World Series run in 2011. After a forgettable decade-long stint with the Los Angeles Angels, Pujols returned to St. Louis to join long-time catcher Yadier Molina and ace Adam Wainwright for one last run to glory. A career that will likely end with 3,000 games with over 3,300 hits and 2,100 RBI under his belt, the last milestone for him to chase is 700 home runs. Thanks to the new era of the designated hitter in the National League, Pujols will have every opportunity to hit the 21 home runs needed to reach 700. 

While the East side of Missouri was experiencing nostalgia at its finest, the West side was welcoming a fresh new face. 

Hope has arrived in Kansas City in the form of top prospect Bobby Witt Jr. Taken with the second pick of the 2019 MLB Draft, his first career hit resulted in an RBI double that gave the Royals a 2-1 lead in the eighth inning en route to a 3-1 win over the Cleveland Guardians. 

How the rest of his rookie season goes is anyone’s guess but he and the Royals fans in attendance will never forget this game. 

The only aspect of Opening Day that is unfortunate is that it is not played by all 30 teams. The Miami Marlins had to wait until Friday fo partake in the christening of the new season. They couldn’t have picked a better place to open on the road. The Marlins make their splash towards San Francisco in the middle of the conflicting scents of sea salt and sourdough. 

The Marlins are retooled and ready to make a run at the playoffs while taking on a Giants team looking to back up an improbable 107-win season. The pitching trio of Sandy Alcantara, Pablo Lopez and Trevor Rogers have the opportunity to earn the Marlins some early credibility with a series win against the best team in baseball. 

The Marlins have been projected to finish with either a winning season or slightly below .500 in a loaded division where three teams enter with World Series aspirations. Miami goes into the new season with an above average pitching staff bolstered by a Gold Glove winning catcher in Jacob Stallings and a newly minted outfield serving as the lineup’s sorely needed power source. Avisail Garcia, Jorge Solar and Jesus Sanchez all have 30-homer potential and if Jazz Chisholm makes the leap to true stardom in his second full season, the Marlins will be able to compete with the best and capitalize in either the Mets or Phillies’ eventual late summer collapse. 

Enjoy the hope while it’s at its peak and let the games begin.