Nowitzki leads Mavs to 2-0 series lead with 101-89 win over Blazers

By Kshell

For the second straight game Dirk Nowitzki proved to be too much for the Portland Trail Blazers as they now trail the Dallas Mavericks(lead series 2-0) two games to none. The Blazers saw Nowitzki take over the fourth quarter once again as he scored 14 of his 33 points in the fourth quarter after scoring 18 points in game one in the fourth. The Mavericks once again had great games from role players as their bench outscored the Blazers bench 39-11 including 21 from Peja Stojakovic. The Mavericks were also led by Jason Kidd who scored 18 points including hitting three three pointers. The Blazers wasted another great performance from LaMarcus Aldridge who scored 24 points and grabbed 10 rebounds. Now the Blazers must fly home knowing they have to win four of the next five games to keep their season alive. The Blazers who haven't won a playoff series in 11 years are off to a bad start to end that streak. For the Mavericks they know the series isn't over yet but they have to feel good about taking care of business at home.

The Blazers came out in the first quarter on the road determine to earn that split. The Blazers were led by Gerald Wallace and LaMarcus Aldridge in the first quarter. The Blazers had a 24-22 lead over the Mavericks led by Wallace who scored 11 points on three for five shooting including a three pointer with three assists. While Aldridge scored eight points on four for six shooting with four rebounds and a block. The Blazers shot 9-18(50.0%) from the field and made two of three three pointers. The Mavericks were led by Peja Stojakovic who scored six points hitting two three pointers. Nowitzki like last game struggled early scoring just four points on one for six shooting. Game one hero Jason Kidd struggled early scoring just three points on one for three shooting. The Mavericks shot 8-19(42.1%) from the field and made three for five from three point range. This quarter summed up the game in a nutshell. The Blazers were led by their starters while the Mavericks were led by balance.

The second quarter featured tons of scoring for both teams as they each scored 28 points to go into halftime with the Blazers leading 52-50. The Blazers were led by Aldridge who once again scored eight points in the quarter to give him 16 points on 7-11 shooting. The Mavericks were led by Nowtizki who scored 10 points to give him 14 points on 3-10 shooting but was a perfect eight for eight at the foul line. The Blazers in the quarter shot 11-21(52.3%) from the field and two for four from the three point line. The Blazers were just four for seven on free throws. For the half the Blazers shot 20-39(51.2%) from the field and 4-7(57.1%) from three point range. The Blazers were led by Aldridge who scored 16 points, Wallace who scored 11 points on three for seven shooting. Nicolas Batum scored seven points in the second to give him 10 points on four for five shooting including two three pointers. Wesley Matthews came up big for the Blazers scoring nine points on four for five shooting including a three pointer. The Blazers were doing a good job keeping pace with the Mavericks.

For the Mavericks they shot 10-21(47.6%) from the field but just one for six from three point range. The Mavericks did shoot seven for nine on free throws. For the half the Mavericks shot 18-40(45.0%) from the field and 4-11(36.4%) from three point range. The Mavericks were 10-13(76.9%) from the free throw line. The Mavericks were led by Nowitzki who scored 14 points, then Stojakovic who scored 10 points on four for six shooting including two three pointers. The Mavericks also saw Kidd score nine points on three for six shooting with two three pointers and Jason Terry score eight points on four for nine shooting. The Mavericks matched the Blazers point for point in the second quarter and were once again in for a battle.

The third quarter continued to be a battle but the Mavericks finally took the lead outscoring the Blazers barely 23-20 to take a 73-72 lead heading into the fourth quarter. For the Blazers they were led by Wallace who scored six points to give him 17 on the game and Aldridge who scored five points to give him 21 points on the game. The Blazers who 8-17(47.1%) from the field and hit one of three three pointers. While the Mavericks shot 10-19(52.6%) from the field and hit two of five three pointers. The Mavericks were led by Kidd in the quarter who scored nine points to give him 18 points on 7-11 shooting including three three pointers and had six assists. Stojakovic scored five points in the quarter including a three pointer to give him 15 points. The Mavericks were heading into the fourth quarter with a slim one point lead. Then in the fourth Nowitzki like last game would take over.

In the fourth quarter the Mavericks depth prevailed over the Blazers. The Mavericks appeared to have fresher legs. It also helps to have a future hall of famer in Nowitzki. The Mavericks got a nice spark from J.J.Barea who scored all six of his points in the fourth quarter. Nowitzki in the fourth quarter scored 14 points on four for seven shooting including six of eight from free throw range. Stojakovic added six points including two three pointers. The Blazers offense struggled scoring just 17 points including just three points from Aldridge who took just two shots the whole fourth quarter. The Mavericks had outscored the Blazers 28-17 in the fourth while shooting 9-17(52.9%) from the field and 8-10(80.0%) from the foul line. While the Blazers shot just 4-10(40.0%) from the field and 7-10(70.0%) from the foul line. When it was all said and done the Mavericks had defeated the Blazers 101-89 to take a two games to zero lead heading back to Portland.

For the Blazers this has to be a disappointment to come to Dallas and come home with no wins. The Blazers were led by Aldridge who scored 24 points on 9-18(50.0%) shooting from the field with 10 rebounds and three block shots. The Blazers had a nice bounce back game from Wallace who scored 18 points on 6-11 shooting with seven rebounds and six assists. Once again Andre Miller had a nice game scoring 18 points on 5-10 shooting with a perfect two for two from three point range. Miller was also six for seven from the foul line while dishing out eight assists and grabbing six rebounds. Matthews also had a nice bounce back game scoring 13 points on 6-11 shooting including a three pointer. Then off the bench Batum scored 10 points on four for seven shooting including two three pointers. The Blazers didn't play bad shooting 32-66(48.5%) from the field, 7-14(50.0%) from three point range but were just 18-27(66.7%) from the foul line. The Blazers turned the ball over 12 times as well. The Blazers have to come home now and sweep at home.

For the Mavericks they were once again led by Nowitzki. Nowitzki put the team on his back in the fourth quarter and finished with a game high 33 points on 9-22 shooting but was 15-17 from the foul line. The Mavericks once again had a great game from Kidd who scored 18 points on 7-11 shooting and knocked down three of six from three point range. Kidd has now made 9-16 from three point range this series while averaging 21.0 points per game. Kidd also dished out eight assists while grabbing four rebounds. Then the Mavericks bench came through with Stojakovic scoring 21 points on 8-13 shooting including 5-10 from three point range. Terry added 10 points on 5-12 shooting with two steals. The Mavericks for the game shot 37-76(48.7%) from the field, 8-19(42.1%) from three point range and 19-26(73.1%) from the foul line. The Mavericks with Nowitzki and good play from key veterans find themselves up 2-0 in the series. For the Mavericks who have been eliminated in the first round three of the last four years they are hoping to put the pressure on the Blazers by winning a game in Portland.

Overall, the Blazers are in a tough spot. After game one there was so much hope as the Blazers looked like the better team with that performance by Kidd looking like a fluke. Instead the Mavericks appear to be the stronger team with the best player on the court(Nowitzki) and a deeper roster than the Blazers. The Blazers need their bench to produce because right now it appears they have just six guys who can play which isn't going to work when you don't have a top 10 player in the NBA on your roster. The Mavericks have a closer in Nowitzki who is a top 10 player in the NBA while the Blazers are hoping Aldridge can be that guy. The Mavericks will enjoy a 2-0 series lead but know this series if far from over. The Blazers better stop that three point shot soon or they'll be going on vacation pretty soon. For all the hope of this finally being the year the Blazers get out of the first round they find themselves two games away from another long offseason.

Observations:

- LaMarcus Aldridge is the closest player to being a star on the Blazers roster. Which is why I was puzzled to see him have just two field goal attempts in the fourth quarter. Aldridge needs to be more agressive and his teammates need to do a better job of giving him the ball. Look no further than their opponent the Dallas Mavericks who feature Nowitzki in the fourth quarter.

Aldridge is having a nice breakout playoffs so far scoring 24 points with 10 rebounds in game two. Aldridge for the series is averaging 25.5 points per game, eight rebounds, two blocks per game while shooting 21-38(55.3%) from the field. Aldridge has came to play this series yet needs to do more. He has only 12 free throw attempts which is pretty low for a big man. Aldridge needs his teammates to help him out or his great playoffs will end shortly.

- Dirk Nowitzki so far has carried the Mavericks in the fourth quarter. Nowitzki hasn't shot well the first three quarters of either game but in the fourth has been huge. Nowitzki while some Blazers fans will whine and cry has been good at getting to the foul line. He has exploited the mismatches every time a smaller guy is guarding him. For the series Nowitzki is averaging 30.5 PPG and 8.5 RPG. He is shooting just 16-42(38.1%) from the field but has made a remarkable 28-30(93.3%) from the free throw line.

In the fourth quarters Nowitzki is averaing 16.0 PPG on 6-11(55.5%) shooting from the field and an amazing 19-21(90.4%) from the free throw line in the fourth quarter. Nowitzki has been a monster for the Mavericks in the fourth quarter and has done a great job getting to the free throw line. Now when the series shifts to Portland I doubt Nowitzki shoots 21 free throws in the fourth quarter in both games. The scary thing is Nowitzki is averaging 30.5 PPG while making just one three pointer and shooting under 40.0%. What happens when Nowitzki finally shoots his normal 51.7% from the field while making a three pointer a game? If that happens this series could be ending pretty quickly.

- The resurgence of Jason Kidd has been pretty fascinating to see so far. Kidd who had a horrible regular season and scored just 48 points in last years playoffs in six games has gone off. So far Kidd has scored 42 points this series. Kidd is averaging 21.0 PPG, 6.0 APG, 4.5 RPG while shooting 16-25(64.0%) from the field and 9-16(56.3%) from three point range. If Kidd keeps playing at this level safe to say the series is over.

Kidd has scored 42 points in two games which is his best scoring two game stretch since January 22nd when he scored 18 points and then January 24th when he scored 26 points. The year was 2007 and he still played for the New Jersey Nets. That is how rare this run for Kidd has been. Kidd is playing out of his mind right now which has been pretty crazy to watch. I'm sure Blazers fans have to be thinking this is 2011 right not 2004? Either way if Kidd keeps hitting three's they'll be a tough team.

- For the Blazers head coach Nate McMillan his postseason record falls to 12-18(.400) in the playoffs. McMillan like his Blazers roster hasn't tasted much postseason success. In fact since 1993 the Blazers have advanced past the first round just twice. Only Marcus Camby has won a playoff series on this roster. The Blazers showing why they can't win these games because they are freezing up in the fourth quarters having been outscored 56-41 in the last two games in the fourth quarter.

Now some will place that blame squarely on McMillan's shoulders. First game he played Brandon Roy too many minutes while this game he played basically just six guys. Hard to win with just six guys when you don't have a superstar. For McMillan he has to figure out this rotation quickly or the Blazers will lose yet again in the playoffs. For McMillan he is 1-4 in playoff series heading into this series.

In conclusion, the Blazers need to step up at home. The Blazers need their role players to hit some big shots at home. The Blazers haven't won their first home playoff game in a series since 2000 against the Utah Jazz. Hopefully that streak comes to an end or they'll be down 3-0 which no NBA team has ever came back from. The Blazers are in danger of being that team whose window has closed. A loss this series would make that three years in a row losing in the first round and dating back to 1993 9 out of 11. The Blazers played well in the first seven quarters of this series but in the last quarter of game two the Mavericks pulled ahead. Now the series shifts to Portland. Hopefully when the Mavericks fly back to Dallas after game four the Blazers will be joining that flight. The Blazers also hope the series will be tied by then. The Blazers must figure something out quickly or their season will be ending in sudden disappointment like the past two seasons.

Mariners weekly recap: April 11th-17th

By Kshell

The Seattle Mariners just completed another losing week going 3-4 dropping their overall record to 5-11. The week started off strong for the Mariners as they snapped a seven game losing streak by defeating the Toronto Blue Jays in the first two games. After that the Mariners lost four games in a row, three to the Kansas City Royals. The Mariners had plenty of lows this week but did have some nice wins as well. The Mariners saw a record comeback for them, great pitching by youngster Michael Pineda and Justin Smoak showing why he was such a highly regarded prospect. The Mariners unfortunately still aren't scoring enough runs. This week even saw Eric Wedge have his first of many blowups on the team after a 7-0 loss on Saturday to the Royals. Like I'll be doing all season long I'll recap the week with the good, the bad and the ugly.

The Good:

The good was the two games I went to this week which the Mariners won. I'll start with Monday's game against the Toronto Blue Jays where the Mariners trailed 7-0 and 7-1 going into the eighth inning. My friend who was my ride wanted to leave early so we left early. As we were eating in McDonalds my phone kept blowing up and the Mariners pulled within 7-6. On the way back to my hotel Luis Rodriguez drilled a two run double for the Mariners to complete the comeback 8-7. I punched my friend in the arm and told him I'll be on my death bed and never forgive him.

Well the next day I saw the home debut of Michael Pineda. I didn't leave early on that game. Pineda showed the Mariners there is plenty of hope as did Justin Smoak when he made a great defensive play in the eighth. With the game 3-2, runner on third base and one out someone hit a pop up between first base and right field in foul territory. Smoak makes the catch turns and fires a strike to nail the runner at third base to basically win the game for the Mariners.

Hitting Leaders:

Justin Smoak: 8-19(.421), Home run, 4 RBI's, 2 runs
Brendan Ryan: 7-21(.333), 3 RBI's, 2 runs. Hit safely in six of seven games
Ichiro: 8-31(.258), 2 RBI's, 5 runs, stolen base

Pitching Leaders:

Michael Pineda: 2-0, 13.1 IP, 1.35 ERA, 1.05 WHIP, 12 K's
Jamey Wright: 2 holds, 2.1 IP, 0.00 ERA, 0.86 WHIP, 2 K's
Josh Lueke: 1-0, 2.1 IP, 3.86 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, 2 K's

The Bad:

The team still isn't scoring runs at all having scored just 23 runs(3.2 Runs per game) in seven games. The Mariners won two out of three from the Toronto Blue Jays but lost three of four against the Kansas Royals despite throwing Erik Bedard, Felix Hernandez and Michael Pineda at them. The Mariners aren't getting much production from the middle of the lineup and the starting pitching finally pitched poorly this week outside of Pineda. The Mariners lost four in a row which gives them already two separate losing streaks of over four games which is a bad trend. Wedge has to be crying everytime he fills out a lineup card.

Hitting Slump:

Miguel Olivo: 1-21(.047), run, 7 K's
Jack Cust: 4-19(.210), 2 RBI's, run, 6 K's. ZERO XBH
Chone Figgins: 3-19(.157), run. ZERO stolen bases

Pitching Slump:

Felix Hernandez: 0-1, 11 IP, 7.36 ERA, 2.00 WHIP, 12 K's
Chris Ray: 0-1, Blown Save, Hold, 1.1 IP, 33.83 ERA, 3.76 WHIP. ZERO K's
Erik Bedard: 0-1, 4.2 IP, 7.72 ERA, 2.14 WHIP, 6 K's

The Ugly:

Now before you think I'm picking on Ichiro I chose this picture to show how low the crowds were during that Toronto series. I was at two of the games and I felt outnumbered by all the Canada fans who drove down to root on the Blue Jays. The Mariners set a Safeco Field record for worst attendance on Monday which was later broken on Wednesday. I can't blame the fans either when you put out a crappy product who can't score runs I wouldn't go either. In fact I'm wondering why I went to two games myself.

Ugly Hitting:

Mariners scored just 23 runs(3.2 Runs per game) during this seven game series. The Mariners attendance is paying the price for it. After six games attendance is already down over 44,000 from last season. This will most likely be the worst year in Safeco history far as fan support goes. I can't really blame the fans it's one thing to be losers but another thing to not be exciting. This team lacks power or anything. They can't play big ball or small ball.

AL West Standings:

LA Angels: 10-5 tied for first
Texas Rangers: 10-5 tied for first
Oakland A's: 8-8 2.5 GB
Seattle Mariners: 5-11 5.5 GB

This year is going to be a long rebuilding season. Wedge I should hope knew this when he took the job. This team won't be competive until 2012 and won't be a playoff contender until 2013. If you guys want hope just look at the "good" list which features Michael Pineda and Justin Smoak. Felix Hernandez is still only 25 years old plus the Mariners have the number two pick in this years draft. The Mariners also have top prospect Dustin Ackley sitting in the minors. The Mariners are starting to build some nice young pieces. That won't take the pain of this season away but unlike 2008 there is at least hope at the end of the tunnel. Whether Jackie Z or Eric Wedge is here to see that well that is a different story that I'll talk about later in the year.

Kidd hits career high six three pointers as Mavs win game one over Blazers 89-81

By Kshell

The Dallas Mavericks(57-25) defeated the Portland Trail Blazers(48-34) in game one of the 2011 NBA playoffs first round behind a career high six three pointers by Jason Kidd. The Mavericks also saw perrenial all-star Dirk Nowitzki score 18 of his 28 points in the fourth quarter as the Mavericks rallied from six points down to take game one. The Blazers overcame a halftime deficit of 10 points due to LaMarcus Aldridge scoring 27 points along with Andre Miller scoring 18 points. For the Blazers looking to win their first playoff series since 2000 they let a game slip away against a team who at times they looked better than. The Mavericks who have had 11 straight seasons over 50 wins or more haven't played well in the playoffs. Lately the Mavericks since blowing a 2-0 lead in the 2006 finals have had a tough time getting past the first round losing three of the last four years in the first round. The Mavericks survived game one at home but like last year are hoping to avoid losing game two at home.

In the first quarter it was the LaMarcus Aldridge show for the Blazers. Aldridge in the first quarter led all scorers with 11 points on five for six shooting giving the Blazers a 22-21 lead after one. Marcus Camby was big for the Blazers scoring two points but pulling down six rebounds while dishing out three assists and blocking a shot. The Blazers shot well 9-16(56.2%) from the field in the first quarter as well. For the Mavericks to keep in it they were led by veteran point guard Jason Kidd who scored eight points on three for five shooting including two three's. Nowitzki scored six points on three for seven shooting. The Mavericks in the first quarter shot 9-20(45.0%) while making three for seven(42.9%) from three point range. The Mavericks also outrebounded the Blazers 11-8 in the first quarter. The Blazers had the early lead but the Mavericks would make the first big run of the game in the second quarter.

In the second quarter the Mavericks defense tighten up on the Blazers. The Mavericks outscored the Blazers 26-15 as the Mavericks shot 9-17(52.9%) from the field and were perfect on all three three point attempts. The Mavericks also made five of six free throws. The defense held the Blazers to 6-16(37.5%) shooting from the field. The Blazers for the half were just one for six from three point range while the Mavericks were a ridiculous 6-10(60.0%). The Blazers found themselves trailing 47-37 at halftime which wasn't the fault of Aldridge who led all scorers with 13 points on 6-10 shooting but had just one rebound. The Blazers also were led by Andre Miller scoring 12 points on four for six shooting while knocking down four of five free throws. The Blazers had a great boost from Marcus Camby scoring four points but grabbed nine rebounds with two blocks. The Mavericks were led by Kidd who scored 11 points on four for six shooting and hit three three's while dishing out three assists and grabbing three rebounds. Nowitzki scored eight points on 4-11 shooting with five rebounds. Peja Stojakovic drilled two three pointers in the second to score six points as it appeared the Mavericks were going to turn this game into a blowout. The Blazers had different plans in the third quarter.

In the third quarter Aldridge put the Blazers on his back with the scoring and Camby dominated defensively. The Blazers outscored the Mavericks 20-14 in the third quarter to pull within 61-57. The Blazers got a nice boost from Gerald Wallace who was held scoreless in the first half scored six points in the quarter. Aldridge scored eight points in the quarter giving him 21 points on 9-16 shooting to that point in the game. Camby also grabbed eight rebounds that quarter. The Blazers shot 9-21(42.9%) from the field while outrebounding the Mavericks 16-8. The Mavericks shot just 5-19(26.3%)from the field and had just eight rebounds. The Mavericks only made two of six three pointers as well. The Blazers had stopped Nowitzki who scored just two points on one for five shooting in the fourth quarter. It had appeared the Blazers were going to win this game as Nowitzki was struggling scoring just 10 points on 5-16 shooting with six turnovers after three quarters. Nowitzki showed why he is a perrenial all-star as he rose to the occasion.

In the fourth quarter you saw Nowitzki put the team on his back and take it to the foul line the whole quarter. The Mavericks found themselves trailing 72-66 with over six minutes to go in the game. That is when Nowitzki took over including hitting a three pointer to give the Mavericks the lead at 75-74. Nowitzki in the fourt quarter scored 18 points and was perfect 13-13 at the foul line. Then with Mavericks up 82-78 Kidd hit the dagger of a three pointer to put the Mavericks up seven and most importantly wrapped up game one. When it was all said and done the Mavericks outscored the Blazers 23-9 to finish the game. The Mavericks made 18-19(94.7%) from the foul line in the fourth quarter while the Blazers attempted just two free throw's despite outscoring the Mavericks 46-18 in the paint. This was a big win for the Mavericks and a good building experience game for the Blazers who saw several key players including Brandon Roy struggle today.

The Blazers didn't play a bad game at all shooting 35-76(46.1%) from the field but struggled to knock down that outside shot hitting just 2-16(12.5%) from three point range. The Blazers were led by Aldridge who threw down several alley-oops on the game scoring 27 points on 12-20(60.0%) from the field while grabbing six rebounds. Miller scored 18 points on 7-13 shooting while dishing out six assists and grabbing four rebounds. Nicolas Batum scored 14 points on 6-14 shooting but made just one of seven three point attempts. Camby finished with four points while pulling down 18 rebounds with five assists and two blocks. The Blazers also had three key players struggle for them including former All-Star Brandon Roy who scored just two points on one for seven shooting. Another Blazer who struggled was Wesley Matthews who scored just two points with three turnovers. Then Gerald Wallace who was shutout in the first half scored just eight points on 4-13(30.7%) shooting from the field while grabbing just five rebounds. The Blazers played pretty well considering none of their role players who are all capable of having big nights played so poorly.

For the Mavericks they can breathe a little better knowing they won game one at home. For a team who has struggled so much in the playoffs to find themselves trailing in game one by six points in the fourth quarter at home had to feel uneasy. The Mavericks were led by Nowitzki who didn't shoot well but still found a way to score 28 points while pulling down 10 rebounds. Kidd scored 24 points on 9-14(64.2%) from the field and made 6-10(60.0%) from three point range. Kidd also had five rebounds and four assists. The only other Maverick to do anything was Jason Terry who scored 10 points on two for five shooting. The Mavericks won the game with the three point shot making 10-19(52.6%) and at the foul line making 25-29(86.2%). For the Mavericks this win was big but it was more of a sigh of relief if anything. Now the Mavericks look to go up 2-0 in the series on tuesday.

Overall, the Blazers won't be discouraged by this performance. If anything this game proves to the Blazers they can play with the Mavericks. The Blazers went toe to toe with the Mavericks watching them shoot 19-2 in free throws in the fourth quarter. The Blazers saw Jason Kidd hit a career high six three pointers while their former all-star Brandon Roy struggled to put the ball in the hoop. At the end of the day the Mavericks won game one and have a one game to none lead. For the Blazers they are just looking for a split then come home to Rose Garden with the series 1-1. The Blazers have some work to do but there was some positives today mainly the play of Aldridge who is really becoming a star in this league. Now the Blazers don't have time for moral victories they must get that game two in Dallas to have a realistic chance in this series. Should be fun to see how game two turns out. Either way one team will feel great about themselves while the losing team will feel like it's the end of the world for them.

Observations:

- Aldridge is starting to show why he is such a great offensive player. Aldridge still is inconsistent as a rebounder having just two rebounds in the game after three quarters. On offense he was pretty incredible with those dunks making 12-20(60.0%) from the field. Aldridge is a go to guy in this league and in the past has had solid playoffs. Now Aldridge needs to get a few calls as he shot just four free throws despite his 20 field goal attempts.

I felt like Aldridge was letting the lack of calls and the Mavericks frustrate him in the second quarter. Aldridge scored just two points that quarter had one rebound and shot one for four. I also felt Aldridge showed maturity to quickly bounce back in the third quarter and score eight points. The Blazers have had to completely change their franchise with Roy and Greg Oden going down to injuries. Aldridge has helped with that transition some. People forget Aldridge was the number two pick in the same draft that Roy was the seventh pick in the draft. The Aldridge-Nowitzki matchup this playoffs has to be one of the better matchups in the first round.

- Now the worst topic I didn't want to talk about but I feel I have to. Brandon Roy looks injured and obviously isn't anywhere close to his old self. I question why Nate McMillan went with him down the stretch when Roy was playing so ineffective. Roy in 26 minutes scored just two points on one for seven shooting. Even worst Roy had the worst +/- on the team at negative 10 points. It is sad to see Roy be so injured especially when you look at this Blazers roster. If they just had the Roy of two years ago the Blazers could be the second or third best team in the Western Conference and very much a championship contender. Then when you throw in Oden this will be one of those what if's Blazers fans will always think about.

- Dirk Nowitzki showed why he lives on the All-NBA teams today. In a game where he didn't shoot well 7-20(35.0%) he still found a way to score 28 points. Nowitzki scored 18 points in the fourth quarter when he nailed all 13 free throws he attempted in the fourth. Now some may say he got superstar calls while others say he was attacking the hoop. There is a reason why superstars get calls because they are good at what they do. They know how to get to the foul line which sadly is a skill.

Nowitzki also grabbed 10 rebounds and had the best +/- out of anyone as he was a plus 17. For those who don't know that means the Mavericks outscored the Blazers by 17 points when he was on the court for 39 minutes. Nowitzki who is playing in his 11th straight playoffs is hoping this year is different that the Mavericks can finally win a championship.

- Remember when Gary Payton once said you should call Jason Kidd "Ason Kidd" because he has no "J". Well those days are long over now. Believe it or not Kidd is third all-time in NBA history in three pointers made. Kidd who is a career 34.8% three point shooter made a career high six three pointers today making 60.0% of his three pointers.

Kidd carried the Mavericks when Nowitzki was slow to get going. Then Kidd nailed the dagger to put the game away. Kidd who had his worst season of his career averaging just 7.9 PPG while 36.1% from the field and 34.0% from three point range stepped up today. Kidd scored 24 points which is the most he has scored since he scored points last season on April 3rd against hijack city(Oklahoma City). To say Kidd played huge today would be a huge understatement. Kidd showed at least for today that he still has some game left.

- This loss drops Nate McMillan's playoff record to 12-17(.413) for his career. In fact McMillan has won just one playoff series in his coaching career now. McMillan had some puzzling moves in the fourth quarter which included not playing Camby who was dominating on defense especially when Nowitzki was getting so many free throw attempts. Another questionable move was playing Roy so many minutes especially playing him so many at point guard.

McMillan I think is a good coach but I also think he can't take a team very far. He is great at getting teams to overachieve but I'm not sure if he can take a team deep into the playoffs which ultimately is the goal. I like Mr. Sonic and hope he can produce a playoff series win this year. The Blazers right now have the longest active playoff losing streak losing six series in a row dating back to my eighth grade year in 2000. Is McMillan the guy to break that streak? Well that is yet to be seen to date.

In conclusion, the Blazers were playing with house money in game one. Nobody expects a road team to get a sweep and all you can hope for is a split. Now game two will be different the Blazers don't want to come home down 2-0 to an experience Dallas Mavericks team. The Mavericks showed their veteran leadership in today's playoff win. Despite not winning a championship Nowitzki and Kidd have played in NBA finals and know how to win in the playoffs. The Blazers are hoping to get to that level where they know how to win in the playoffs. With some better play from their role players the Blazers can get the split. One would think Kidd won't shoot 60.0% from three point range the rest of the series. Now it comes down to game two to see where this series goes from here. If Aldridge has anything to say about it the Blazers will be coming home with the split. Just don't forget the Mavericks may have had plenty of failures in the postseason but they have had some success as well. The Mavericks take game one now we'll find out what this resilient Blazers team is made of once again. Knowing the Blazers they'll fight back and make game two a great war. Should be interesting to see game two I can't wait.

Alvaro Fernandez's 91st minute goal salvages a point at Philadelphia

By Money Mike

When it looked as though the Philadelphia Union were gonna pull off another 1-0 victory, Alvaro Fernandez's equalizing goal a minute into stoppage time saved a point for the Seattle Sounders as the match ended all square at 1-1. With the draw, Seattle now has 6 points (1-2-3) and Philadelphia remains on top of the Eastern Conference table with 10 points (3-1-1). The Sounders now head to Colorado to face the defending MLS Cup Champion Rapids on Friday, then it's back home for a match Toronto before hitting the road again for matches at D.C. United and the Columbus Crew then after that the next three matches are at home, starting with the Portland Timbers.

The weather over there was really crappy, the conditions were poor, the ball movement was poor, I mean, the Sounders just looked miserable out there.

The man officiating this match by the way was Terry Vaughn, and you can tell that he was the referee, after a foul that led to a Philadelphia goal. Kyle Nakazawa's touch was a little too heavy and instead of going for goal, he just leans into Osvaldo Alonso and his arms were up in the air before Alonso even made contact with him, so it should've been a dive, instead Terry Vaughn signaled free kick in a dangerous position and showed a yellow card to Ozzie Alonso. That led to this.........

Carlos Ruiz with a free kick from 25-yards out, a bender over the wall toward the far post, Kasey Keller got a touch, but he couldn't keep the ball from sneaking inside the far past for the goal to put the Union up 1-0. It was Ruiz's 2nd goal of the season.

In the 51st minute, a mistimed header by Jeff Parke nearly led to a second goal, Ruiz with a good touch out of the air sent Sebastien Le Toux away but he didn't strike it hard enough and it was easily saved by Keller. A couple minutes later, Ruiz set up young Amobi Okugo for an open look from outside the area but again, no trouble for Kasey Keller.

In the 66th minute, Sigi Schmid went to his bench and brought on Nate Jaqua and Fredy Montero to boost the attack late on for Seattle. It was Montero's first game back since recovering from wrist surgery a couple weeks ago.

In minute 78', Alvaro Fernandez nearly made an immediate impact. Fredy Montero drove the ball across, hoping for a deflection of some kind, goalkeeper Faryd Mondragon got a hand to it, and the ball fell directly to Fernandez who struck it hard. It was goal bound, but Danny Califf got in the way of that shot and seemed to have saved a win for the Union. But Fernandez wasn't going to be denied a second chance.....

In the first minute of stoppage time, a corner by Mauro Rosales found Nate Jaqua who nodded it to Fredy Montero at the far post, after exchanging passes with Steve Zakuani, Montero chiped the ball to the middle of the area. There were three Sounder players unmarked and in the end, it was Alvaro Fernandez with the header, off the post and into the back of the goal to tie the match up at 1-1 and that's how it ended.

Scoring summary:

Philadelphia Union - Carlos Ruiz (unassisted) 32'

Seattle Sounders FC - Alvaro Fernandez (Fredy Montero) 91'+

Misconduct summary:

Seattle Sounders FC - Osvaldo Alonso (caution; Reckless tackle) 30'

Philadelphia Union - Stefani Miglioranzi (caution; Reckless tackle) 55'

Philadelphia Union - Amobi Okugo (caution; Reckless tackle) 65'

Philadelphia Union - Carlos Valdes (caution; Reckless tackle) 88'

Starting lineups:

Seattle Sounders FC - Kasey Keller; James Riley, Jhon Kennedy Hurtado, Jeff Parke, Leonardo Gonzalez (Fredy Montero 66'); Erik Friberg (Alvaro Fernandez 77'), Osvaldo Alonso, Brad Evans, Mauro Rosales; O'Brian White (Nate Jaqua 66'), Steve Zakuani

Philadelphia Union - Faryd Mondragon; Sheanon Williams, Danny Califf, Carlos Valdes, Jordan Harvey; Keon Daniel, Stefani Miglioranzi (Danny Mwanga 59'), Amobi Okugo, Kyle Nakazawa; Sebastien Le Toux, Carlos Ruiz (Justin Mapp 80')

Seattle Sounders FC vs Philadelphia Union preview

By Money Mike

The Seattle Sounders hit the road to PPL Park in Chester, Pennsylvania to take on the Philadelphia Union. Last season, following USA's World Cup exit, the Union opened up their new stadium against the Sounders. The Sounders got on the board first in that one after a late first half goal by Pat Noonan, but defensively they were awful, a clip inside the box resulted in a penalty kick which was converted by Sebastien Le Toux. Kasey Keller was left helpless as the backline just stood around almost all game and late on in that match, the Union made them pay with goals by Fred and Danny Mwanga. The Sounders, coming off a win against Chicago, are seeking revenge against the Union who are right now leading the east with 9 points. So far all of their matches ended in 1-0 decisions with three of them going their way. But the Sounders look to pick up where they left off last week and come away with another big victory.

Injury report:

Seattle Sounders FC - Well there's only one injury to report this week for the men in Rave Green. Fredy Montero, who missed the last two matches while recovering from wrist surgery, has been cleared by the doctors and is with the team for the trip to Philly.

Philadelphia Union - Gabriel Farfan has a dislocated right toe and is not going to feature in this match. Brian Carroll has a strained right hamstring and it's unlikely he'll play.

Key matchups:

Steve Zakuani vs Sheanon Williams - I like this matchup here, Zakuani and Williams. Steve Zakuani with his creativity and Sheanon Williams who is very good defensively and also add depth to Philadelphia's attack. Look for these two to battle it out.

Philadelphia front line vs Seattle Sounders back line - I already said the Sounders had difficulties shutting down Le Toux and Mwanga, but now Philadelphia's attacking front looks even more dangerous with the acquisition of Carlos Ruiz. I think this matchup will decide whether or not Seattle will win this game.

What's the difference between this years Philadelphia team and last years?:

Much like last year, Peter Nowak has done a fantastic job bringing in veterans like Danny Califf, and also bringing in some young talent. We of course remember the 2008 Expansion Draft. I was listening online that day and I had a bad feeling that Sebastien Le Toux was gonna be selected. There were some big names that Nowak selected, including Alejandro Moreno, Andrew Jacobson, Stefani Miglioranzi and when I heard Le Toux's name last, I can't remember what my reaction was, but I can tell you, there was nothing to smile about. Le Toux made 28 appearances with the Sounders in 09' and scored only 1 goal, then Peter Nowak picks him up in the Expansion Draft and he ends up scoring 14 goals in 28 matches, which is even more disappointing to me because I still felt like we should've kept Stebastien Le Toux. The fans loved him when he was with the USL squad and were really excited to see that he was the first player signed by the MLS Sounders, and seeing him go, I was just upset. Alot of us are still talking about that, saying that we should've protected Le Toux, and I'm sure that even though he did very little in terms of scoring goals, the fans were upset after hearing about Le Toux's departure.

Aside form Le Toux, Nowak drafted three players in the first round of the 2010 MLS SuperDraft, including former Oregon State Beaver, Danny Mwanga as #1 overall. Mwanga after his sophomore year considered leaving Oregon State to play in Europe, but Nowak talked him into staying in America and he selects him as the first overall pick. Other key acquisitions prior to 2010 of course included Danny Califf, they brought in Justin Mapp in the last half of the season. So Nowak already had this team going the right direction.

This year, it almost felt like they lost a lot of players, which they did. Michael Orozco is now back in Mexico, playing for San Luis. Shea Salinas, Alejandro Moreno, Chris Seitz and Fred have all left. But they brought in veteran goalkeeper Faryd Mondragon from 1. FC Koln, Carlos Valdes from Club Santa Fe, Brian Carroll from the Columbus Crew, Carlos Ruiz from Aris FC, Keon Daniel from the Puerto Rico Islanders and they also drafted goalkeeper Zach McMath in the first round of the 2011 draft. So this team is gonna get stronger and stronger.

I still miss my Sonics

By Kshell

The stage was all set this year for the Sonics as they have just won the Northwest Division title. The Sonics feature a young team that is poised to win some titles especially after the Kendrick Perkins trade. The Sonics feature Kevin Durant who was the youngest scoring champion last year and led the league in scoring once again. The Sonics will face a familiar face in George Karl whose division rival Denver Nuggets will face off with the Sonics. The Sonics have given us a nice distraction from the Mariners terrible start, NFL lock out and the Huskies disappointing season. Then all of a sudden I woke up from my dream or am I leaving reality to a nightmare right now? Our team was stolen three years ago in July yet the pain still exists for me. This still feels like some sort of nightmare and at any moment I'll join reality where the Sonics featuring Kevin Durant are hoisting the championship trophy. In this following post I'll talk about my memories of the Sonics growing up and the pain I feel now. I won't talk about who is at fault because we all know who is(Schultz, Bennett,Stern and Nickels). So hope you enjoy this following post how the city of Seattle still misses their team.

Growing up in Southwest Washington there was a divide in our area between Seattle SuperSonics fans and Portland Trail Blazers fans. You see where I grew up we are only 50 miles from Portland but Seattle is the home state team. I was a Sonics fan my very first sports team I got into and my very first sporting event I went to was a Sonics game. It also helped that the Sonics growing up in the 1990's were the best team in the northwest which as a kid matters quite a bit. The first year I got into the Sonics was my second grade year when the Sonics had the best record in the entire NBA going 63-19. My dad bought me a Sonics shirt for the playoff ride as this was the year Seattle was going to win their first title since 1979. Well after being up two games to none the Sonics lost both games in Denver to force a game five. I remember at no point did my dad think the Sonics would lose the series. He was complaining how going five games will tire us out down the stretch. I still remember that game as the Sonics were bailed out by a Kendall Gill tip in to force overtime. The Sonics would ultimately become the first team to ever lose in the first round of the playoffs as the #1 seed. The NBA was forbidden in my house for the rest of the playoffs so unless I was at my grandparents house I missed most of that playoffs(I did see the O.J. car chase though).

The following year in third grade is when I really got into the Sonics. For those who went to Mint Valley Elementry school with me can testify I wore Sonics clothes every single day. I even bought a shirt with the schedule on the back. That year is when I went to my first Sonics game ever which took place at the Tacoma Dome that year. We lost to the Spurs by three points as David Robinson had a big game(he would win the MVP that year). I don't remember much from the game other than the Sonics had 37 rebounds as a team and Dennis Rodman had 27 rebounds by himself. I also remember Sam Perkins signing autographs for a bunch of fans at halftime. I also bought a Shawn Kemp home jersey at the game. That christmas I got a brand new Sonics starter jacket which was the best gift I could have got plus I still have that jacket. When the day comes I'll have my son wear that jacket to still represent the Sonics. That year once again the Sonics would lose in the first round to the Los Angeles Lakers which saw them lose three straight heartbreakers. Most people thought George Karl was going to be fired. I'll never forget Karl in the postgame press conference crying pleading to the public to forgive him and keep his job. The Sonics would keep Karl and be rewarded.

In my fourth grade year was probably the best sports year of my life to date. The year began with the Seattle Mariners miracle 1995 run which alone would make for a great year. Then Washington Huskies football won a share of the Pac-10 title and the basketball team surprised everyone and made the NIT. The Seahawks had their first non losing season since 1990 as well going 8-8 and even had a shot at the playoffs that season. Still my first love the Sonics were having a great season. Overshadowed by the Chicago Bulls 72-10 season the Sonics had the best record in the Western Conference and once again were the #1 seed. The Sonics won game one without my favorite player Shawn Kemp who was suspended as they defeated the Sacramento Kings in game one behind Gary Payton. Then Kemp returned in game two only for the Kings to upset the Sonics at Key Arena where they had lost just three times all year. I was so down I remember being so upset I took down my Kemp posters. I was thinking not again not another first round choke job. Then in game three down in Sacramento the Sonics found themselves trailing by double digits I had a sick feeling in my stomach at that point. I remember the Sonics came back led by Frank Brickowski of all people drilling some three pointers. The Sonics would clinch in game four and finally win a playoff series. The Sonics would then sweep the two time defending champions Houston Rockets(had gone 12-0 against them previous two years). Then the Sonics blew out the Jazz in game one and in game two the Sonics rallied behind a great Shawn Kemp dunk. The Sonics would then rally game four to take a three games to one lead. Then the Sonics lost game five at home in overtime then were blown out in game six forcing a game seven. The Sonics won that game seven and due to the Bulls being so dominant that felt like a championship. I celebrated with my dad and was so excited. I went to school that monday wearing my Payton jersey and was so pumped up about the win. Then the Sonics were down 3-0 to the Bulls rallied to win the final two at home before losing in the finals. Then that offseason destroyed basketball in Seattle.

That offseason the Sonics felt they had to get a big man. The Sonics lost to the Bulls mainly because they were dominated inside by Luc Longley and Dennis Rodman. The Lakers had just signed Shaquille O'Neal as well so the Sonics counter by signing Jim McIlvaine. That single move destroyed the Sonics mini run they had going. The Sonics would once again win the Pacific Division on the last day of the season as the Portland Trail Blazers upset the Lakers. The Sonics would defeat the Phoenix Suns in five games but would lose to the Houston Rockets in seven games in the second round. After the game Shawn Kemp said he had played his last game as a Sonic. Kemp was unhappy with his contract and how McIlvaine was making more money than he was. Kemp would be traded in a blockbuster deal that brought in Vin Baker. That 1997-98 year saw the Sonics win their fourth division title in five years. George Karl became just the third coach in NBA history to win 55+ games with the same team for six straight years. I went to a game that year at Key Arena where the Sonics won their 55th game that is when I bought my Vin Baker jersey. After another playoff loss to the Lakers in the second round Karl was fired. The Sonics in his six seasons won 55+ games, won four division titles, went to two western conference finals and one NBA finals. The Sonics just weren't the same after that. At the time I was spoiled I was so mad at the Sonics for once again breaking my heart in the playoffs that I figured that was normal to make the playoffs every single year as a high seed. I would quickly find out those were my peak years as a fan.

After Karl was fired it was pretty hard being a Sonics fan. It was really tough for me who was spoiled by success that the Sonics started to struggle while the Blazers were enjoying their run. After four straight lackluster seasons which saw the Sonics bounced in the first round in five games twice the unthinkable happened. It was my junior year and I remember getting home from school and seeing on espn.com that Gary Payton had been traded. I wanted to like our new owner Howard Schultz but it was tough after trading away the franchises best player. The Sonics did bring back Ray Allen who was the best pure shooter in the game at the time and probably still is. Still growing up Payton and Kemp were my favorites and those two were officially gone. What made it even worse was the offseason where Payton signed with the hated Lakers. I liked Payton so much I also did the unthinkable I wanted the Lakers to win a title that year so Payton could win. The Sonics were becoming an afterthought as well since the Seahawks and Mariners had become good. The Sonics who once ruled the city of Seattle found themselves the third team on the pecking order.

I'll never forget my first year of college in Ellensburg, Washington at Central Washington University. I didn't know anyone at first so I watching the Huskies who went on to be the #1 seed in basketball which wasn't a surprise. The big surprise was the Sonics who were picked to finish last place. That Sonics team was my favorite individual sports team ever probably due to my age I could appreciate them more than my youth. This Sonics team came out of nowhere and had Mr.Sonic Nate McMillan coaching the team. The team featured Ray Allen and Rashard Lewis with the rest of the roster full of scrappy players. The Sonics won the first ever Northwest division title that year then were up two games to one against the Sacramento Kings heading into game four. I still remember the Sonics trailing by double figures then Ray Allen went off. Allen would score 45 points and when he hit the falling away three pointer to ice the game I remember freaking out. The Sonics would win a playoff series then face the heavy favorites the San Antonio Spurs. The Sonics down 2-0 came back home and won both games at home. Then in game six in a back and forth game the Sonics finally lost by a Tim Duncan buzzer beater. I was never more proud of a Seattle sports team than I was that team. Then a few months later Nate McMillan left to our rivals the Blazers which pissed me off. Then a year later doom hit Schultz sold the team to out of state owner Clay Bennett which had me worried.

After another disappointing season I remember the day the draft lottery happened. I was sitting in my college house with my two roommates as the Sonics landed the #2 pick we celebrated so much. I thought by landing Durant the Sonics were safe no way this team was moving. I remember my Blazers roommate rubbing it in that the Blazers had the #1 pick and Greg Oden. I was excited for the Sonics as Wally Walker was finally gone and Kevin Durant was coming to Seattle. The year ended with the Sonics having their worst season in franchise history but that was all right the team was young. Then in July the darkest day happened the Sonics were leaving to Oklahoma City. Our own damn city sold the team out and got nothing in return. The Sonics had two years left on their lease and Mayor Greg Nickels let the team leave. The worst part is not only did they leave they got to share the history which still to this day pisses me off! We lost our team, history and a great talent like Kevin Durant. Durant the only Seattle Supersonic ever to win rookie of the year by the way. No matter what Durant does remember he was drafted by Seattle and like our team was stolen from us.

Now because so many idiots got rich by being sell outs the fans are the ones who are left to suffer. The only professional championship that was won in anyone's lifetime is no longer in our city. The Sonics were the most successful franchise having won six division titles, reaching six Western Conference finals, reaching three NBA Finals and winning a World Championship. Our history is gone and so is the Sonics yet I get the impression I'm in the minority who is outraged by all this. Look how ESPN felt so "sympathic" to Cleveland for the Lebron James situation. What about Seattle who lost Durant and our team!!! Only Bill Simmons will bring up the Sonics situation while the rest of the media pretends nothing happened which makes me sad. I hate how casual fans or fans of other teams just expect Seattle fans including myself to just "move on". Makes me sick to my stomach when the Hijack City Zombie Sonics were in the playoffs last year and ESPN bragged up how great their fans were. I know their fans didn't do anything but when you have feelings for someone and see them with someone else you naturally don't like that person she is with. That is how I feel about Oklahoma City and I hope Durant leaves them in five years.

The Sonics leaving did so much damage to so many people. I take a look at myself for example. I always felt the Sonics were the big reason why my dad and I grew so close growing up. We always had the Sonics to talk about regardless of how good or crappy each of our days went. Huskies football dominated the discussions but that was just 12 games a year while the Sonics were 82 games plus playoffs. I remember going to games with my dad with the Sonics and how them winning/losing meant so much to us. I also remember years later in my college years calling my dad talking Sonics. I feel for kids growing up what are they going to do? The city of Seattle has produced so many great NBA players you have to wonder what the absence of an NBA team will do going forward. All I know is the Sonics built a great relationship between my dad and myself. Of course David Stern didn't think of that as he ripped my heart out of my soul.

In conclusion, I still miss my Sonics. I miss playoff basketball and I'd kill to see the Sonics get upset in the first round again. I'd take that over what we have now which is nothing. Instead the city of Seattle has a crappy baseball team to watch right now when we should be getting ready for the playoffs. This used to be my favorite time of the year the NBA playoffs as a kid where Key Arena would be rocking loud. Now I'm left wondering if we'll ever get a team back. Nobody seems to care far as the "important" people go. On Dave Niehaus day Costco had Howard Schultz do an autograph signing which didn't sit well with Sonicsgate Adam Brown who was removed for simply wearing a Sonics hat. Earlier that week the city council of Seattle named a day statewide Starbucks day. Now today the NBA named Clay Bennett head of the relocation committee. I feel as if people are intentionally trying to rub Seattle's faces in the crap that they took on us. I'm still heartbroken about the team being gone and still am in shock. I know it has been three years but it feels like it has been 10 years since we last had an NBA team. I wish nothing but bad things for the league as long as David Stern is running the show. I just want my team back. I still miss my Sonics and like most Sonics fans I sit at night watching old youtube clips of the Sonics. They can take our team and history but these jerks can't take away the memories. I saw Seattle clinch the western conference championship, my dad remembers when they won the title in 1979, I remember where I was when Shawn Kemp would throw down a monster dunk. Just remember that fans don't be afraid to openly miss the Sonics and if someone tells you to get over it tell those people to get bent. I just hope someday I can wake up from this nightmare and see Kevin Durant hoist that trophy for Seattle.

The week that was Seattle Mariners edition: April 1st-10th

By Kshell

Unlike previous sports where I write a game recap on each game with baseball I'll just do a simple week that was post. For the Seattle Mariners they started the week off pretty good winning their first two games on the road at Oakland. Then after that it was all downhill for the team as they have lost seven games in a row. During that seven game losing streak the team has scored just 18 runs. This week has already brought the team some excitement with the debut of Michael Pineda, Ichiro breaking Edgar Martinez franchise hits record, Felix Hernandez receives his Cy Young after pitching a complete game on opening day. Then there was some lowlights like the seven game losing streak, Erik Bedard's era, the terrible defense and the Jack Wilson saga. I'll break all this down in the upcoming post.

The Good:

The good for the week was the 2-0 start where the Mariners had some terrific starting pitching. The Mariners starting pitchers went 15 2/3 innings allowing only three runs while striking out 11. The Mariners also scored 11 runs the first two games. Ichiro recorded four hits in the first two games to pass Edgar Martinez as the all-time hits king. Felix Hernandez pitched the first complete game win in Mariners history on opening day.

Hitting Leaders:

Jack Wilson: 6-18(.333), 3 SB, 2 runs, RBI
Adam Kennedy: 5-16(.313), 2 Doubles, 2 runs
Ichiro: 9-36(.250), 2 runs, 4 RBI's, 3 SB

Pitching Leaders:

Felix Hernandez: 1-1, 16 IP, 2.25 ERA, 0.88 WHIP, 11 K's
Doug Fister: 0-2, 11.2 IP, 2.31 ERA, 1.37 WHIP, 5 K's
Jamey Wright: 4.1 IP, 0.00 ERA, 0.46 WHIP, 4 K's
Brandon League: 2.2 IP, 0.00 ERA, 0.38 WHIP, 2 K's, one save

The Bad:

There has been plenty of bad for the Mariners this season. The Mariners are currently on a seven game losing streak. The Mariners as a team are hitting .215 with just four home runs through nine games. The Mariners have scored just 18 runs during this seven game losing streak which is an average of 2.5 runs per game.

Hitting Slump:

Chone Figgins: 5-37(.135), HR, 3 RBI's, 2 runs, SB, 6 K's
Brendan Ryan: 3-21(.143), 2 RBI's, 4 runs
Jack Cust: 6-32(.188), 3 RBI's, 3 runs, 11 K's
Ryan Langerhans: 3-18(.167), 2 HR's, 3 RBI's, 2 runs, 8 K's

Pitching Slump:

Erik Bedard: 0-2, 9 IP, 9.00 ERA, 1.89 WHIP, 9 K's
Tom Wilhelmsen: 2.2 IP, 13.50 ERA, 2.63 WHIP, 4 K's
Josh Lueke: 2.2 IP, 13.50 ERA, 2.25 WHIP, 4 K's
Chris Ray: 1-0, 1 BS, 3.1 IP, 8.10 ERA, 1.8 WHIP, ZERO K's

The Ugly:

This team appears to be falling apart inside the clubhouse as well. First with Jack Wilson who made two costly errors on a game against the Texas Rangers. Wilson then asked out of the game because he felt he was hurting the team. After the team Wilson said Eric Wedge pulled him from the game which Wedge didn't take kindly. In fact Wilson didn't play at all in the three game sweep to the Cleveland Indians. Then during Saturday's game Milton Bradley apparently was being heckled by his own home crowd. It got to the point where he was batting with earplugs in his ears. The Mariners like I said are currently riding a seven game losing streak.

Ugly Hitting:

Seattle Mariners team: 64-298(.215), .285 OB, .597 OPS, 4 HR's, 27 RBI's, 69 K's. 29 runs scored(3.2 runs per game).

Standings:

Texas Rangers: 8-1 1st place
LA Angels: 5-4, 3.0 GB
Oakland A's: 4-5, 4.0 GB
Seattle Mariners: 2-7, 6 GB

As you see despite only play nine games the Mariners already find themselves six games back in the division. The Mariners after taking two of three from the Oakland A's got swept by the Texas Rangers then the Cleveland Indians. The Mariners despite the season just starting already feel hopelessly out of the season. Just a matter of time before Jack Wilson is released. I predict by June you'll see Jack Cust and Milton Bradley shown the door. The Mariners I'm sure are desperately trying to trade Figgins if anyone wants him. For now just sit back and enjoy Felix Hernandez and Michael Pineda. The bright spots on this team very few and certainly far between. The Mariners completed the first week of the season going 2-7 and still can't score any runs. This looks like a team headed towards their third 100+ loss season in four years. Hopefully this team can give the fans something.