Wisconsin Sports Colony

2010 NBA Draft Chat

2010-06-24T17:11:00.000-04:00

2010 realGM Bucks Draft Chat

Milwaukee Bucks @ Cleveland Cavaliers Live Chat

2010-03-31T18:29:00.000-04:00

Milwaukee Bucks @ Cleveland Cavaliers

Clippers @ Bucks Live Game Blog

2010-03-30T20:03:00.000-04:00

Los Angeles Clippers @ Milwaukee Bucks 3/30/10

Atlanta Hawks @ Milwaukee Bucks Live Chat

2010-03-22T21:21:00.001-04:00

3/22/10 Hawks @ Bucks

Good read about the NFL Labor Situation

2010-03-11T15:18:00.001-05:00

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/03/03/20-questions-about-the-uncapped-year/

Nothing seems too brutal yet, but imagine if in 2011, no NFL is played?

Punter Please

2010-03-11T14:54:00.002-05:00

http://www.greenbaypressgazette.com/ic/blogs/insider/index.shtml

Someone should be accountable. I watched all or most Packer games this past season, you are the primary reason for the lack of the inside the 20 production. I can think of maybe 5 times where it was the coverage fault. It was routine for the Packers to go three and out from around the 30, and for Kapinos to kick it to the other 30. That's horrible.

Packers tender everyone but Kapinos

2010-03-11T14:48:00.002-05:00

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/03/03/packers-apply-tenders/

No one should be surprised at the players whom the Packers tender. The best news is no Kapinos. Perhaps Daryn College was a bit of a questionable move, but he was a second round pick, so its best to not lose him for nothing.

Bucks have clinched a playoff spot?

2010-03-11T10:42:00.004-05:00

http://insider.espn.go.com/nba/insider/columns/story?columnist=hollinger_john&page=PERDiem-100310

I'm not going to sit here and tell you that the Bucks are a shoo-in, but this should give everyone some confidence.

The word for today is "separation." We've had it in the Western Conference playoff chase for quite a while, and now we're finally getting it in the East, too.

We've been talking about five teams battling for four spots in the East for weeks, but Milwaukee's win over Boston on Tuesday essentially cemented a playoff berth for the Bucks. Milwaukee has 34 wins in the bank with 11 home games remaining, and it is the hottest team in the league right now (sorry, Dallas) with 10 wins in 11 games since acquiring John Salmons.

If that wasn't enough, the Bucks should own every tiebreaker with teams still fighting for playoff slots. They clinched the head-to-head series with Toronto and Miami, and their 25-15 conference record should give them an edge over Charlotte and Chicago, even if the Bucks lose their final meeting against each team. As an added bonus, the Bucks' final three games -- against Boston, Atlanta and Boston again -- could become gimmes if the playoff seedings of the Hawks and Celtics are locked in place.

As a result, Wednesday's Playoff Odds give the Bucks a 99.2 percent chance of making the postseason. Basically, they're in, and we're down to four other teams battling for three spots.

I know that mathematically that they have a 99.2 percent chance, but this is the same franchise that was leading the Central Division at the beginning of March, and missed the playoffs (Tim Thomas and Anthony Mason I'm yelling at you!)

Jason Kendall gone crazy

2010-03-11T10:31:00.002-05:00

http://www.radaronline.com/exclusives/2010/03/exclusive-adderall-rage-baseballs-new-drug-scandal-detailed-players-divorce

It appears that Jason Kendall's wife was cheating on him, which I consider to be very serious. But, I can't help but laugh at some of the testimonies. Kendall tried to throw a baseball at her, but he missed high? Reminds me of him trying to throw out base runners. And he beat a cake with a baseball bat? I mean, I can't make this up.

Packers one of the interested clubs in Badger O'Brien?

2010-03-10T18:49:00.003-05:00

http://www.jsonline.com/sports/packers/85748082.html

O'Brien Schofield was a stud for the Badgers last fall. Not to mention, he always had a smile on his face. Unfortunately, he tore his ACL at the Senior Bowl, and now is likely to be selected toward the end of the draft. If the Packers are truly interested, it would mean a change in direction for a team that hasn't exactly teemed with Badgers over the years. Passing Chris Chambers for Robert Ferguson, Troy Vincent for Terell Buckley have haunted the Packers for years now. I always thought that Jack Ikegwuonu would do well in this league, and he had a knee injury as well, but Schofield measures much higher on the character and intangible scales than Jack ever did. I would take Schofield in the 5th round, stash him on IR (perhaps he can keep Justin Harrell company, let a medical professional track his rehab, and groom him into a solid 3-4 DE or OLB.

Finley a perminent starter

2010-03-10T17:40:00.001-05:00

http://www.jsonline.com/sports/packers/85790002.html

This move screams duh to me. Finley is more likely to be starting in the Pro Bowl than not starting this season. Donald Lee, be gone please. You can't catch a cold. And you are not really that good of a blocker. What do they call TE that can't catch or block? Free Agents.

Who should the Packers take

2010-03-10T16:55:00.002-05:00

http://www.greenbaypressgazette.com/article/20100227/PKR01/100227072/1058/Who-s-who-where-Packers-need-the-help?GID=IjLlFXBhtk/pXySptW+f8T2RQoRXwwFP5qWjIBb9a1E%3D

Good article. Just stay away from Bruce Campbell. I would prefer a cornerback such as Patrick Robinson, who reminds me of Antonio Cromartie.

DeShawn Wynn not tendered

2010-03-10T15:32:00.002-05:00

Don't let the door hit you on the way out. Joe McKnight?

Childress "pretty good"

2010-03-10T15:25:00.002-05:00

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/02/26/childress-pretty-good-if-favre-has-same-timeline-as-last-year/

Well guess what Childress, Favre is going to take his sweet time. When you sell your soul to the devil, you have to deal with the heat. Favre is going to come back during training camp, for one reason, because he can.

Ford unprofessional?

2010-03-10T13:38:00.001-05:00

http://blogs.indystar.com/pacersinsider/archives/2010/03/obrien_doesnt_w.html

And to think I thought he could be a budding star his rookie year. How disappointing. That team was kind of like this years team, only offensive whereas this team is dominant defensively.

Jefferson still struggling in San Antonio

2010-03-10T13:30:00.001-05:00

http://www.mysanantonio.com/sports/columnists/mike_monroe/86092937.html

And to think that people were criticizing the Bucks for that trade. I thought it was a decent trade, Jefferson's contract was terrible, but I didn't expect it to work out this well. Jefferson fell off a cliff.

Joe Thomas going to SE Asia?

2010-03-10T00:19:00.001-05:00

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/02/25/four-players-heading-to-southwest-asia-for-uso-tour/

Sounds good to me. Joe Thomas is so good, and I'm not saying that because he is from Wisconsin, went to Wisconsin, and I have his jersey.

Take him Packers

2010-03-10T00:06:00.003-05:00

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/02/21/myron-rolles-off-field-success-could-hurt-in-the-draft/

Rolle might score twice as well as Nick Collins did on the Wonderlic. I think the Packers should take him in the middle rounds. I am rooting for him, and so should you, but you don't have to, ha.

Favre on Leno

2010-03-09T23:47:00.003-05:00

http://www.thejaylenoshow.com/backstage-with-bryan/updated-the-tonight-show-with-jay-leno-listings/

Another Ho-Hum day on Leno I presume. Ha. Two washed up egomaniacs, is your TV big enough?

Packers franchise Pickett

2010-03-09T23:41:00.003-05:00

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/02/24/packers-franchise-pickett/

Sign him long term, da da dadada Sign him long term clap clap clapclapclap. At this point in their respective careers, Pickett is much better than Raji at the nose. With more seasoning, Raji IMO can still become a effective nose tackle in the 3-4. But for now, with the Packers thinking Super Bowl, the time is now.

Corey Williams is due some big money

2010-03-09T23:21:00.002-05:00

http://www.nfl.com/news/story?id=09000d5d81689343&template=with-video-with-comments&confirm=true

Great move by Ted. Williams was Cletius Hunt II, and we got a 2nd round pick, from the Browns, for him.

Packers resign Special Teams Ace Martin

2010-03-09T23:01:00.001-05:00

http://www.jsonline.com/sports/packers/85001657.html

Well there's one way to improve special teams, but yet another player who thinks they can play in the secondary but can't, yeah I'm talking to you Jarret Bush. Nice trade in September to get anything for Tony Moll.

Sharper not tagged

2010-03-09T22:58:00.002-05:00

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/02/23/sharper-prepares-to-say-farewell-to-the-saints/

The Saints don't want you because you had a great half season and a mediocre second half. Darren worthless INTs and tackles 5 years past the 1st down marker Sharper has now entered the building ladies and gentleman.

Nick Barnett soundbite about Brett

2010-03-09T22:48:00.001-05:00

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-network-total-access/09000d5d816861e5/NFC-North-outlook

"It's better for him to make the decision faster," Barnett said. "But I doubt that he's going to do that."

Nick, like Packer fans, know this trick all too well. Although he become something great during the season last year, he is still the same old Brett.

Collins to hold out for real?

2010-03-09T22:43:00.003-05:00

http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerpages/player_main.aspx?sport=NFL&line=167962&id=3194

I personally think that Collins is a tad overrated, but I think that he could become much better if we had a competent safety along side him, further allowing him to ball hawk. That said, his smooth transition to the 3-4 screams contract extension. Come on Ted, you build through the draft, and you drafted Collins. We know he is tremendous, but he is a B+ football player.

Bucks beat Celtics

2010-03-09T22:28:00.004-05:00

Alright. So you think that the Bucks aren't for real? Well now the Bucks have finally beaten a signature team, defeating the Boston Celtics at home. Bogut had a big game, Delfino had a fever of 102 before the game yet still had 19 points. But, with the recent success, it sure seems like Jennings mouth has been re-energized. No sense is provoking something, Brandon. Play your game. Let other players play theirs. Always nice to see Rivers and Ray Ray come back to visit, and this time they brought their good friend Mike Finley out to play.

Bucks beat Cavs, without LeBron

2010-03-06T22:46:00.003-05:00

Hey, Brandon Jennings remembered how to shoot! Always good news. Well the Bucks won, so that is good. But there is a part of me that wishes that LeBron would have played to see how we stack up. However, without LeBron, Shaq, and Zydrunas Ilgauskas, this Cavs team was severely depleted in comparison to the likely playoff roster. I think that the Bucks can hang with any of the other top Eastern seeds, but Cleveland will sweep them four straight in all likelihood. Basically have the 5th seed now.

Sweet Marquette

2010-03-06T16:24:00.005-05:00

Terrible OT possessions. Loss at home on senior day. Johnson-Odom disappeared. Hayward fouled out. Terrible. And if that announcer refers to something as the "Luck of the Irish" one more time. Frustrating loss right there. And what about that play where the ball hit the ref, stayed in bounds, Notre Dame scored, and Buzz Williams got the technical?

Marcus Banks makes his way to the Wisconsin Public Enemy List

2010-03-06T15:15:00.004-05:00

http://www.fan590.com/media/media.jsp?content=20100304_204836_11396

Marcus Banks, aka trade filler, you want to hate on Milwaukee, well let me tell you one thing, it's not. You play for the Raptors, yeah that's right a dinosaur. They are extinct. And guess what else, it's in Canada.

Bogut getting some shout outs

2010-03-05T23:47:00.005-05:00

I chided Bogut on Wednesday for his poor secondary percentage, but he's come a long way. Now that he's finally been able to say healthy for a full season, he's developing his arsenal of low-post jump hooks and rounding out the rough edges in his game. He's averaging a double-double on 55 percent shooting since Jan. 1, and crushing his career-high in PER; if we could redo the vote today he would almost certainly make the All-Star team.

While Bogut's offensive development has been impressive, his defensive transformation has been downright shocking, and isn't getting nearly the attention it should. Always a fierce, physical defender, he's picked up a knack for shot-blocking from nowhere. Bogut has increased his blocks average every month; his five rejections Wednesday night pushed his average to 2.4 per game, second only to Orlando's Dwight Howard -- and more than double his mark from last season. 2nd best center in the East besides Dwight Howard.

Andrew Bogut has made an incredible transformation from what he was just 2/3 years ago. He is now dominating games like he was supposed to out of Utah. He is seriously a jump shot away from becoming unstoppable.

Marquette destroys Jerry Smith, I mean Louisville

2010-03-05T19:30:00.005-05:00

Jerry Smith started out really warm, but then him and Louisville cooled off. And to think Marquette offered him a scholarship in 8th grade. Darius Johnson-Odom set the tone, and is just a flat out Warrior, pun entirely intended. Marquette is in the tournament, and could finish with a better record than any season with the Three Amigos.

Ya, Kendall was bad

2010-03-05T19:17:00.003-05:00

http://www.fangraphs.com/blogs/index.php/jason-kendall-and-hbps/

Kendall getting hit is about the only thing he does positive. If I recall correctly, he is 2nd all time to Craig Biggio. Kendall leans into pitches because he is doing the same thing that fans are doing: praying to get on base. Divine intervention is about the only chance Kendall has.

A sabermetric recap of Weeks

2010-03-04T11:35:00.002-05:00

http://www.fangraphs.com/blogs/index.php/a-look-at-weeks/

The eye test tells us, as well as reminders like the botched double play against the Cubs two seasons ago, that Rickie Weeks last name adequately describes his defense. Sabermetrics tell us that Weeks is average, if not a tick above. I think that Weeks has improved drastically, especially last season under the mentoring of Willie Randolph. Will that improvement stem into this season? Who knows, but the 2010 Brewers are counting on a vast overachieving season from Rickie Weeks.

Diener to Portland?

2010-03-03T23:14:00.002-05:00

http://www.columbian.com/news/2010/mar/01/blazers-to-add-diener/

Sounds like a decent fit. Best of luck for Travis. What a player for the Golden Eagles. And how impressive are the Trail Blazers this year with all of their injuries?

We are getting tested Buck nation

2010-03-03T23:10:00.003-05:00

http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/spt/stories/030210dnspomavsider.2d636f4.html

Our two most despised people from the downfall of the 2001 Bucks have both been connected with health issues. Keep it off the court Timmy. What's next, is Anthony Mason's kid going to tear his ACL, doesn't he play for St. Johns?

Finley too?

2010-03-01T15:34:00.002-05:00

http://twitter.com/STEIN_LINE_HQ/status/9834769237

And now former Badger Michael Finley is on the street. Hopefully someone will pick him up, he can still reign the trey and provides good veteran leadership. Definitely the most under-appreciated member of those early 2000s Dallas teams behind Nash and Dirk.

Diener Released

2010-03-01T15:31:00.001-05:00

http://twitter.com/STEIN_LINE_HQ/status/9833049546

Marquette's and Fon du Lac's own Travis Diener was released today. Should the Bucks pick him up for a hometown reunion? Probably not, since Royal Ivey is a complete stud.

Redd to have surgery tommorow

2010-03-01T15:26:00.003-05:00

http://twitter.com/STEIN_LINE_HQ/status/9838213653

Best of luck to Michael Redd. It would be nice to have him off the bench this year, or be able to trade his insurance covered contract next season.

Marquette escapes (again)

2010-02-28T14:22:00.004-05:00

Jeremy Hazell is a very good player. I'm not sure how that last 3 didn't go down, but it didn't and Marquette escaped yet again. Incredible how they can pull out the close one's now after not being able to before. Is that because Marquette is the better team than the last few teams they have played, and not as good as the Villanovas or the Syracuses? Or is it all just a bit of luck/chance/probability? I'll let you decide, but I'm going to take the boring route and say a combination of the two. Can Jimmy Butler ever make a clutch 3? Just a couple? Lazar is just a good ball player, can hit the three or get the big steal, and today past Dominic James for 3rd place all time on Marquette's scoring list.

Big shocker there

2010-02-28T13:10:00.003-05:00

http://hoopshype.com/%27http://hoopshype.com/twitter_media.html

Guess Big Z isn't coming to Milwaukee. Really didn't see that one coming. The next CBA really needs to stop this trading players and being able to resign them is ridiculous.

At least one Buck will be in the Playoffs

2010-02-28T13:06:00.003-05:00

javascript:newwind('http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news?slug=mc-afterthebuzzer022610&prov=yhoo&type=lgns','801')

And to think it will be Elson. Man is the NBA frustrating. Elson is horrible. He deserves to be in the playoffs less than I do. Maybe he will pull a Jerome James and get a huge mega-deal after a good playoff series (Poor Knicks fans with Isiah Lord).

Traylor in trouble too

2010-02-28T12:58:00.004-05:00

javascript:newwind('http://www.freep.com/article/20100226/SPORTS06/100226011/1320/Traylor-must-serve-60-days-after-basketball','1031')

What is it about former Bucks? Now Robert Traylor is in trouble for tax-evasion. Somehow Bucks' fans should be able to acquit him on more serious charges, such as larceny from a Senator. Dirk, ah!

Well, duh Hommy

2010-02-28T01:16:00.002-05:00

http://news-herald.com/articles/2010/02/19/sports/nh2115181.txt

Browns will build through the draft? I thought they would just skip the draft, well they did draft Brady Quinn.

(But also Joe Thomas)

Sounds good to me

2010-02-28T01:11:00.001-05:00

http://www.greenbaypressgazette.com/ic/blogs/insider/2010/02/state-of-packers-day-9-specialists.html

I agree with this sentiment. Crosby is an okay kicker, but isn't bad enough to kick to the curb. A little competition never hurt anyone.

Jolly's court appearance delay again

2010-02-28T01:07:00.002-05:00

http://new.wtaq.com/news/articles/2010/feb/18/court-hearing-packers-dt-jolly-postponed/

Now his court date is past the tender date. Great.

A National Sports Writer mention of Hammond

2010-02-28T00:58:00.004-05:00

http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=simmons/100224

It isn't much, but hey its Bill Simmons, and better yet ESPN.

And the owners are blaming the players? Really? Just in the past three years, we've seen general managers Sam Presti (Zombie Sonics), Daryl Morey (Rockets) and John Hammond (Bucks) build competitive teams by prudently watching their cap, searching for bargains, building around young talent and picks, and/or carving out enough cap space to take advantage of desperate suitors who will pay with draft picks or young players just to dump an unsavory contract. There's a method to their madness. They are the minority, not the majority. Most of their competitors sabotaged themselves and inadvertently reduced the value of franchises as a whole.

I would agree with that synopsis, but Hammond isn't in Morey's league. Presti I think is overrated, he fell into Durant because Portland took Bowie, I mean Oden, which I thought was the right move at the time. Their other core pieces just aren't that good, i.e. Russel Westbrook, who I wanted the Bucks to draft, and Jeff Green aren't very good. Hammond is a pretty good GM, especially considering the mess Larry Harris was and put Hammond in.

Ok, Ok, I forgot to mention this tidbit

2010-02-28T00:49:00.005-05:00

http://www.realgm.com/boards/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=989891&sid=e2a79f0518ee08debf8b54391f272676

Ok, its more than a tidbit and I apologize. The Bucks reacquired Royal Ivey, and also got Primoz Brezec and the sweetener, a 2nd round pick from the dreadful 76ers. I think that John Hammond learned his lesson from last season, just imagine if he could have gotten San Antonio's second round pick and taken Blair? Too little too late, but still.

Former Buck Robertson in trouble

2010-02-28T00:28:00.001-05:00

javascript:newwind('http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/local_news/85505537.html','151')

No not Oscar, but Alvin. Still, never any mercy for someone who is even close to something like this. Fall from grace for him, that's for sure.

Nothing new on the J.J front

2010-02-28T00:21:00.003-05:00

http://www.twinkietown.com/2010/2/21/1320562/twinkie-town-q-a-with-twins

Brewers wanted a pitcher or a CF. Twins didn't want to trade a pitcher. Brewers wanted Gomez. J.J. whined, okay that wasn't in the article but it almost certainly happened.

Troy Vincent jions the league office

2010-02-27T23:31:00.002-05:00

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/02/18/troy-vincent-lands-with-league-office/

Still in disbelief that the Packers didn't draft him. Or Chris Chambers. Robert Ferguson, "Oy vey!?!"

Bucks destroy Heat

2010-02-27T17:47:00.003-05:00

The Bucks destroyed the Heat, again. For the 3rd time this season, which gives them the all-important tie breaker over a potential team that is competing for a playoff spot. Jamaal Magilore played more minutes than Dwyane Wade, which is a bad sign for any basketball team. Now 7-1 on the road this month.

Padres out on Lopez?

2010-02-27T17:20:00.004-05:00

http://twitter.com/followthepadres/status/9400362860

Come on Felipe, don't go to St. Louis. That could give them the division this season with his production over David Freese and that abomination that is the St. Louis IF minus Albert.

Brewers will finish ahead of Houston for a while

2010-02-27T17:17:00.004-05:00

http://brianmctaggart.mlblogs.com/
http://www.fangraphs.com/blogs/index.php/houston-extends-wade/

Ed Wade is a horrible GM, he signed Brandon Lyon for 3 years 15 million enough said. And who is their SS this season again?

De La Rosa wants to stay in Colorado

2010-02-27T17:10:00.003-05:00

http://harding.mlblogs.com/archives/2010/02/slimmer_cook_eager_de_la_rosa.html?partnerId=rss_col

Jorge De La Rosa was a huge part of the Richie Sexson trade, perhaps the key piece. But did nothing put give false hope for the Brewers. Of course, everyone gives lefties with great power arms a second, third or fourth chance. De La Rosa has come close to reaching his potential in Colorado. Let him stay. We hardly knew you.

Dodgers Sign Eric Gagne

2010-02-27T17:06:00.002-05:00

http://twitter.com/dylanohernandez/statuses/9313373332

Gagne returns home, kind of. Like I said before, thank you Gagne for your September, and for buying those fans tickets that he did. But for 10 million? Hardly.

Bucks will go after 2011

2010-02-27T16:54:00.003-05:00

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/chris_mannix/02/25/bucks/index.html

As Bucks' nation already knows, the Bucks will have a ton of cap space in two years. How they use this space will be an interesting story line over the next year and a half. Will the Bucks be able to trade some of their "assets", expiring contracts like Dan Gadzuric 7.2 million, Michael Redd 18 million, John Salmons 5.8 million, and Carlos Delfino at 3.5 million, which will give the Bucks the ability to acquire nearly any kind of contract that goes past that time slot. With the new CBA likely to take place after next year, this is also important to not destroy the new found cap space. Will Hammond use it wisely? That is up for debate. But the likely hood of being able to acquire another long term piece to the core is high at the end of this season, the trade deadline, or the summer of 2011. Carmelo maybe? One can dream.

Badgers kill Inidiana

2010-02-25T23:16:00.003-05:00

Boring. Another Wisconsin teams steps into Indiana and pummels a basketball team. Tom Crean, you are overrated. Not much to say. On Wisconsin! Supposedly they are building a nice highway around Chicago so more Wisconsinites can witness more such pummelings.

Illiana Expressway

Daniels might hold out?

2010-02-25T23:14:00.002-05:00

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/02/18/owen-daniels-says-he-might-skip-training-camp/

Not a smart move by probably the best all-around Tight End, yes Jermichael, you must imporve you blocking. He has a torn ACL, no team is going to give you a huge contract until you at least prove you can still painstakingly plant your pivot foot. Just get your reps in, rehab well, and come back and set the league ablaze again.

Still no word on StarCaps

2010-02-25T23:11:00.002-05:00

http://www.twincities.com/sports/ci_14426021

Ok, seriously this is absurd. Several Pro-Bowl players cheated, got caught, and STILL haven't gotten punished. Imagine if these were baseball players. Imagine a Vikings team without the fat Williams' slobs.

Chiefs sign Dave Raynor

2010-02-25T23:08:00.001-05:00

Dave Raynor is an average kicker. Not bad, not good. Kansas City is a bad team. Sounds like a match up for the ages. How much are they paying Matt Cassel?

Bucks beat Pacers, but it was too close

2010-02-25T22:54:00.003-05:00

So the Bucks started out a tad sluggish, but by the end of the 3rd quarter, everything seemed to go according to plan. But then Bogut went to the bench in his customary 4th quarter blow out fashion, and things just kind unraveled until the crew was able to eventually pull it out. Jennings, please stop chucking 18 footers. You can't make them. Ilyasova played well, can't help but think that maybe he felt he had something to prove. Murphy played well from the perimeter, but was softer than I remembered. Roy Hibbert hit several what looked to be lucky shots, but perhaps he is just getting better. I always thought that he was underrated coming out of college. Still can't defend though.

Butler at the BUZZER!!!

2010-02-25T22:41:00.002-05:00

Jimmy Butler came out of the gates appearing to be the next big thing at Marquette. Low and behold Big East play came along and Butler was productive albeit not as productive as earlier in the season, hitting rock bottom in clutch situations. But he came up with a huge jumper to win the game against St. Johns, giving the Golden Eagles another tough road win.

Bucks beat Hornets without Paul

2010-02-25T22:37:00.003-05:00

A win is a win is a win. The Bucks beat the Hornets for the first time in 9 games. Bogut was a monster again with 26 and 13. Stackhouse had a nice game off the bench, all the while giving the Bucks a .500 record and the 7th spot in the East.

Bucks beat Knicks, this time with Bogut

2010-02-22T22:48:00.002-05:00

Andrew Bogut probably wishes he didn't get a migraine against the Knicks in their last meeting. Bogut had 24 points, 20 rebounds and 5 blocks to dominate the Knicks, he even had 14 points and 9 rebounds in the 1st quarter. Tracy McGrady is officially ancient. Another victory for your Bucks, and guess what the Bull lost too. Go Bango!

Marquette squeeks by Cincy, clinches tournament bid?

2010-02-22T22:47:00.002-05:00

Lazar Haywood hit a key three after another putrid shooting game to put the game into overtime, and then systematically dominated from there as Marquette won on the road. Does this win put them in the NCAA tournament? Let's hope so.

Wisconsin beats Northwestern, phew

2010-02-22T22:43:00.002-05:00

Made us Badger fans a bit nervous toward the end but eventually pulled it out. Still need help for the Big Ten title. On Wisconsin. No one's game really sticks out, but Leuer had a huge block to end the game.

Indians sign 3TO

2010-02-22T22:15:00.004-05:00

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=4928544
http://www.fangraphs.com/blogs/index.php/branyan-to-the-tribe/

Finally a guy with 31 HR signs. For just 8 million for the next two seasons, with just 2 guaranteed. Brewer fans, this is why we shouldn't resign Prince Fielder to a huge deal. Sure he is great, second best hitter in the game behind Pujols, but Branyan hit 31 HR last year, always has a serviceable OPS for 1B, and can play all of the corners. Fielder will be worth about $20 million dollars annually to resign, and Branyan is far more than 10% of the player Prince is.

Marquette with a disappointing loss

2010-02-22T15:25:00.006-05:00

Marquette's loss to Pittsburgh hurts in a couple of ways. This is probably their worst conference loss, the game wasn't really close down the stretch for the first time in Big East play. The game was at home against a good but not great team. Lazar Haywood couldn't buy a bucket late in the game. The intensity was still there, but overall not a great effort by the Golden Eagles. The tournament isn't guaranteed at this point.

Wisconsin gets blown out by rival Gophers

2010-02-22T15:18:00.003-05:00

The return of Jon Leuer didn't go as fairy tales should. Looking out of shape, sync, and touch, Jon Leuer was terrible for the Badgers. Minnesota again beat Bucky, for the 3rd time in a row. Real classy Minnesota fans at the Barn too, as they lead a charade of elicit material not suitable for this site. Big Ten title hopes are thin now for your Badgers. Can't be too disappointed though, I had this as a loss coming into the month.

Hardy just comfirms what we already knew

2010-02-22T15:14:00.003-05:00

http://www.startribune.com/sports/twins/84271517.html?elr=KArksi8cyaiUqCP:iUiD3aPc:_Yyc:aULPQL7PQLanchO7DiUr

J.J. Hardy was a good shortstop for the Brewers. But he was a whiner. He whined about hitting in front of the pitcher, he whined about being demoted for hitting .219. He's whining some more to the Minnesota press. His latest installment? He's complaining that he didn't get enough off days. Better yet, he had too much pride to ask for a rest. If only we were all as good of a person as you are J.J.

Bucks tried to acquire Carl Landry?

2010-02-22T12:47:00.004-05:00

http://www.realgm.com/boards/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=988519&start=0

Lost in translation in the huge Tracy McGrady trade was that Milwaukee native Carl Landry was traded to the Sacramento Kings. Supposedly this was a radio rumor, but it makes sense. What would you trade for Carl Landry? Ersan is not worth giving up for Troy Murphy, but is he for Landry? Ultimately, I think that the Bucks felt that he wasn't, and the Kings were probably seeking other pieces besides a power forward, like a young swing man spot up shooter for Landry due to their glut of big men, such as Jason Thompson Spencer Hawes, Joey Dorey and Omri Casspi, in addition to Tyreke Evans. Could Landry be someone the Bucks could sign with the Redd and Gadzuric expiring contract cap space in 2011? I wouldn't be surprised.

Sorry for the hiatus

2010-02-22T12:43:00.002-05:00

Will be updating frantically to true to give you guys the best Wisconsin Sports Experience on the Web

Bucks trading Ridour?

2010-02-18T11:33:00.006-05:00

http://basketball.realgm.com/src_wiretap_archives/64829/20100218/knicks_contact_bucks_on_ridnour/

If the Bucks were to trade Ridnour, I'm sure that Jared Jefferies would be coming to the Bucks, as then the Knicks could offer Max Contracts to 2 players this off season, and the Bucks are one of the few teams that are willing to add contracts for the off season. Smart maneuvering on Hammond's part. The Bucks would need to get a point guard in some form.

Bucks trading Ridour?

2010-02-18T11:33:00.001-05:00

http://basketball.realgm.com/src_wiretap_archives/64829/20100218/knicks_contact_bucks_on_ridnour/

Welcome back Kurt and Francisco.

2010-02-18T11:03:00.003-05:00

http://basketball.realgm.com/src_wiretap_archives/64828/20100218/bulls_bucks_decide_on_alexander_warrick_for_salmons_trade/

Goodbye Joe Alexander and Hakim Warrick. I must say that I like this trade better for the Bucks. Kurt Thomas is pretty much needed to back up Bogut. I suppose the actual players are contingent on if Hammond can pull off another trade. What an exciting deadline.

I'm sorry George

2010-02-18T00:45:00.001-05:00

javascript:newwind('http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=4919794','160')

You are in my prayers George. No one deserves cancer. Get well soon. Your Denver Nuggets team is pretty good this season I hear.

Good news for Manny Parra

2010-02-18T00:07:00.003-05:00

http://www.fangraphs.com/blogs/index.php/daves-guys-the-pitchers/

Manny Parra, Milwaukee

There’s probably not a better example of the divide between the FIP crowd and the ERA crowd than Parra. Those who evaluate a pitcher by the amount of hits and runs he allows will see Parra as an inconsistent flake, a guy with good stuff but no idea how to use it. Those of us who don’t hold a pitcher’s entire BABIP against him will see a lefty who gets both groundballs and strikeouts and has been the victim of bad luck and/or bad defense in a career that still represents a small sample.

I lean more towards the latter camp, obviously. I don’t see a compelling reason to believe that he’s earned a .349 career BABIP. His line drive rates are average-ish, and his GB rate isn’t high enough that we should expect him to give up that many hits on balls in play. He doesn’t throw hittable crap down the middle. He may have been frustrating to watch over the last several years, but there’s a lot more ability here than the results would suggest.

Parra needs to breakout for the Brewers to win the division, or rather, the Brewers need some players to break out and Parra has one of the higher chances of actually breaking out. Parra has taunted Brewer fans with his potential, and now needs to realize it, and fast.

Yay, the pitcher hitting 8th

2010-02-17T23:41:00.004-05:00

http://brewersbeat.mlblogs.com/archives/2010/02/macha_might_hit_pitcher_eighth.html

Score one for the sabermetric Brewer fans. My current lineup would be:

Weeks
Zaun
Braun
Fielder
Hart
McGehee
Gomez
Pitcher
Escobar

The Brewers need a breakout hitter in the worst way. Fielder and Braun, and probably Weeks will be there. McGehee will probably regress. Who is that player?

Gooden looking for a buy-out

2010-02-17T23:27:00.004-05:00

javascript:newwind('http://hoopshype.com/twitter_media.html','146')

Sign me up for Drew Gooden. Tough banger to back up Bogut and play some PF. Would be a nice replacement for Kurt Thomas. Tough to see him traded so many times, and now is on the Clippers. Always played well against the Bucks, scoring his career high 33 and also having a big game with Dallas earlier this year.

Bucks get slammed by Rockets

2010-02-17T23:19:00.002-05:00

Man, I don't think I've ever seen a team shoot the 3 like the Rockets did tonight. Ultimately, this was a loss at the beginning of the night, and is a loss at the end as well. No harm done. Would nice to see the Bucks upset a time every once in a while. Not their night tonight. Charlie Bell tied Tim Thomas for 4th all time in Bucks 3 point shots made. Dear lord, what a pathetic statistic.

Bucks pick up Salmons, more on the way?

2010-02-17T23:07:00.004-05:00

http://basketball.realgm.com/src_wiretap_archives/64805/20100217/bulls_send_salmons_to_milwaukee_for_cap_relief/

Hollinger likes the trade for the Bucks:

Bucks: A solid move here by the Bucks to take on Salmons, since they're one of the few teams targeting 2011 for free-agent dollars rather than 2010. Salmons could conceivably opt out of the $5.8 million he's owed next year, but in the current market and with his current production, it seems highly unlikely.

Thomas and Francisco Elson weren't playing, so this deal costs the Bucks nothing of value. Meanwhile adding Salmons gives the Bucks a wing scorer that they've sorely needed ever since Michael Redd went out. He's a decent defender too, which should allow the Bucks to maintain their trademark feistiness while getting much more production than the likes of Charlie Bell could deliver.

Combined with a favorable late-season schedule and the fact that the trade strips Chicago of a key weapon, this deal positions the Bucks to make the playoffs for the first time since 2006. And with $12 million in expiring contracts waiting in reserve (Luke Ridnour, Hakim Warrick and Joe Alexander), the Bucks may not be done dealing yet. Grade: B

I agree with the analysis. I'm not sure that I especially like Salmons, but he is certainly more productive than Thomas and Elson were. But what if the Bulls are able to parlay this savings into Dwayne Wade, LeBron stays in Cleveland, and the Bucks are perpetually stuck in 3rd in the Central? I like this trade for the Bucks, but future ramifications are dicey. Now go get Murphy for expirings, and the Bucks will be in business.

Fat Williams is coming back

2010-02-17T22:55:00.002-05:00

http://www.twincities.com/sports/ci_14418568

The Williams brothers, they aren't really brothers, have been a devastating DT combination for the Minnesota Vikings since they were brought together. Now, they should be back for another season, or what should be 75% of a season. They used StarCaps, which was a banned supplement, they got caught, and still haven't been suspended. Talk about an absurd rule. Won't be easy sledding for Ryan Grant again this season.

Felipe, don't sign with the Cardinals

2010-02-17T22:33:00.004-05:00

http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/felipe-lopez-pursuit-021710

Felipe Lopez would be a big improvement for the Cardinals, who currently have nothing in the infield aside from Fat Albert Pujols. Signing Lopez could swing the pendulum far in their court in terms of the NL Central. Aside from Ludwick, Holiday and Pujols, and perhaps Molina if you include position adjustments, the Cardinals' offense is nothing special. Throw in Lopez at 2B or 3B, then there is another impact bat. Put him at SS, and they lose all their offensive production to Lopez's lousy SS defense. Sign him San Diego!

Another good Wisconsin safety?

2010-02-17T22:25:00.003-05:00

That is someone from Wisconsin, born and educated in the state. Jim Leonard is a very solid player for the New York Jets, and Chris Maragos has a chance to follow is his foot steps. It would not surprise me to see Chris go undrafted or maybe tabbed in the late rounds. I think his average speed hurts him as far as draft stock goes. But, if Leonard can do it, you have to think Chris can too. I'm sure that everyone in Wisconsin will be rooting for him. Maybe he will even suit up at Lambeau. Heck, Jim Leonard was offered a contract.

Good news for Brewers' fans and a bit of not so good news

2010-02-17T22:15:00.002-05:00

http://www.jsonline.com/sports/brewers/84531257.html

Without getting into his metric, which he calls "inventory value," baseball writer Bill James cast a list of the best, young talent in the major leagues.

He ranked what he determined to be the "most valuable properties" in the majors right now, whether they are position players or pitchers. None of the players he lists was older than 26 last season.

Two of the top five on his list are Brewers. Prince Fielder is ranked second and Ryan Braun is ranked fourth.

Felix Hernandez of Seattle is ranked first, Hanley Ramirez of Florida is third and Pablo Sandoval of San Francisco is fifth.

The next five are Tim Lincecum of San Francisco, Evan Longoria of Tampa Bay, Justin Upton of Arizona, Miguel Cabrera of Detroit and Nick Markakis of Baltimore.

The next 10 are: Matt Kemp of the Dodgers, Dustin Pedroia of Boston, Zack Greinke of Kansas City, Ryan Zimmerman of Washington, David Wright of the Mets, Joe Mauer of Minnesota, TroyTulowitzki of Colorado, Adam Lind of Toronto, Jair Jurrjens of Atlanta and Mark Reynolds of Arizona.

James ranks the Brewers 19th among 30 major-league teams with the most young talent.

He has Tampa Bay ranked first, followed by Colorado, Minnesota, Arizona and Boston.

2 of the top 5 is pretty incredible for one team, and the fact that they will still be Brewers for the next 2 seasons is great. But the fact that they are ranked 19th isn't so great. The Brewers farm system isn't as good as it was earlier this decade, and will need to replace Fielder when he undoubtedly leaves. Part of that could come in a trade, but who knows? Enjoy them while, moreso he, is here Brewer fans. You won't see talent like this forever or for long after that, just ask Royals fans.

Last Packer Super Bowl punter retires

2010-02-17T22:05:00.004-05:00

http://nashvillecitypaper.com/content/sports/hentrich-plans-announce-retirement

There are few players left from that magical 1996 Super Bowl champion Packers team, and now there may only be one. Craig Hentrich retired today at the age of 40. The Packers have had horrendous punters ever sense, Jeremy Kapinos, Jon Ryan, Derrek Frost and Josh Bidwell come to mind, or give me nightmares, and to think that Hentrich didn't even have an ACL? If only Brett would get the message.

Did Rodgers' belt dance inspire the Cardinals' D?

2010-02-17T22:01:00.001-05:00

http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-1/The-Plays-That-Shaped-The-Season/76323612-943a-47f9-8467-83984f17779c

We all know that Aaron Rodgers' belt dance is lame, but does it inspire defenders to play better?

http://www.i94sports.com/articles/green-bay-packers/aaron-rodgers-stop-qthe-beltq-celebration.html

Sharper could be franchised. If not. . .

2010-02-17T15:10:00.003-05:00

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/02/15/saints-will-franchise-sharper-unless-they-dont/

Darren Sharper was an overrated Packer. Now he appears to be going to Canton because of one thing, he takes gambles. All the time. Going for the big hit or the key interception at all costs, including being left in the dust. As a member of the Saint's Super Bowl championship team, Sharper will be in line for a huge raise. Would Sharper look good next to Collins? Would certainly be an upgrade over Atari Bigby? Was that Bridge burned? Would Thompson pay that much for a Darren Sharper type? While the answer to all of those questions is almost certainly no, it's interesting to think about.

Maybe the Rays for Branyan?

2010-02-17T11:16:00.003-05:00

http://twitter.com/Ken_Rosenthal/status/9220069651

I'm sure the Indians will sign him given that they are offering a Major League deal. They have an opportunity to swing him at the deadline for some prospects. Nice buy-low deal for the Tribe.

Rockies and Dodgers show interest in Gagne or is it vice versa?

2010-02-17T11:10:00.005-05:00

http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2010/02/sizing-up-interest-in-eric-gagne.html

Eric Gagne says he wants to play for the Dodgers again. Eric, hear me out on this one. You were great in LA, the fans couldn't get enough of you. But guess what, Paul Lo Duca and his HGH factory are no longer there. You were on the Mitchell Report. You were only incredible because of the HGH, and now your biggest supplier is gone. You're finished Gagne, and somehow you are the only one who knows that.

Two former Brewers platooning?

2010-02-17T11:04:00.004-05:00

http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20100216&content_id=8079340&vkey=news_cle&fext=.jsp&c_id=cle&partnerId=rss_cle

Potentially Russel Branyan and Matt LaPorta, yes that Matt LaPorta, could see themselves in a platoon with one another. An interesting thought for Brewers' fans, as LaPorta was the dynamic prospect that was involved in the CC Sabathia trade, while Branyan played a big role on the 2008 team in his platoon with Bill Hall at 3B, including his memorable shot in the bottom of the 9th against Joe Nathan and the Twins to send the game into extras. A far cry from last season for Branyan, as he had a huge first half before finishing with 30+ HR in his first real shot at full-time ABs for Jack Z's Mariners.

Gary Sheffield not willing to take a bench spot

2010-02-17T10:31:00.002-05:00

http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20100215&content_id=8078126

Gary, face it, you're going to be sitting down a majority of this season, whether it is on someone's bench or on your couch. When the Nationals don't want you to start for them, you have a problem.

A couple of teams watch Eric Gagne

2010-02-16T21:24:00.001-05:00

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/jon_heyman/02/15/heyman.scoop/1.html

The Rockies and Gagne's old Dodgers watched him throw 2 days ago, with the Rockies expressing an interest in offering him a deal. Gagne was underrated as a Brewer, but that doesn't mean that he was worth anything close to the $10 million he was paid. The Rockies thought his workout was pedestrian. I would like you to take a gander at Gagne's September, I think you will come out of that surprised.

Should Ahman Green be resigned?

2010-02-16T11:40:00.004-05:00

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/02/15/ahman-green-thinks-hell-be-back-in-green-bay/

I highly doubt that Green will be back. If fact, it would be a major disappointment in my personal opinion of the off season if he was resigned. Ahman Green was a solid guy this year, who I think pushed Grant to be better. But the Packers need to get a better return man and a better receiver out of the backfield, and an easy way to kill those two birds with one stone would be to draft or sign a Leon Washington/Dexter McCluster type who can return and serve as a receiver out of the backfield.

Brewers without options

2010-02-15T23:27:00.000-05:00

http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2010/02/out-of-options-2010.html

The two Brewers that stick out like sour thumbs are Manny Parra and Chris Narveson. Both, especially Parra, are guys with major league success, but that could use some grooming. Parra has been sent down each of the last two years, and will have to iron out his struggles in Milwaukee or for another organization. Almost no way he gets through waivers. There is a chance that Narveson could make it as he could be viewed as AAAA fodder due to his suspect stuff.

Chad Ford's Bucks Report

2010-02-15T15:58:00.000-05:00

Chad Ford: Bucks Interested In SG, Murphy/Jamison/Thomas

Milwaukee Bucks

Assets: Ersan Ilyasova; potential lottery pick; expiring contracts of Luke Ridnour, Joe Alexander and Kurt Thomas

Just months ago, the Bucks appeared to be conducting a fire sale. But now, to the surprise of other teams, Bucks GM John Hammond has been out aggressively looking to move expiring contracts to get back a power forward or a dynamic 2-guard to play alongside Andrew Bogut and Brandon Jennings.

The Bucks have reportedly talked to both the Wizards about Antawn Jamison and the Pacers about Troy Murphy and shown interest in the Bulls' Tyrus Thomas.

Milwaukee will have to be patient, because other teams might have better offers to make to Washington, Indiana and Chicago. But if the Bucks are willing to throw their first-round pick into a deal, they might be able to trump other teams. As the deadline approaches, don't be surprised to see Milwaukee scoop up someone.

I would stay far away from Jamison, way too long of a contract. I have posted on my huge support for a Murphy. Tyrus would be intriguing, but I'm not sure that Scott Skiles would be okay with that. I wonder who the Shooting Guard might be? I haven't heard anything about a)the Bucks being interested in a SG or b) who might be available. I would be all for that, as SG truly has been the downfall of this team this year.

Baseball Prospectus gives us their top 15 Brewer Prospects

2010-02-15T14:20:00.000-05:00

http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=10035

Five-Star Prospects
1. Alcides Escobar, SS
Four-Star Prospects
2. Brett Lawrie, 2B
Three-Star Prospects
3. Mat Gamel, 3B
4. Wily Peralta, RHP
5. Cody Scarpetta, RHP
6. Jon Lucroy, C
7. Eric Arnett, RHP
8. Kyle Heckathorn, RHP
9. Kentrail Davis, OF
10. Angel Salome, C
Two-Star Prospects
11. Logan Schafer, OF

Four More:
12. Mark Rogers, RHP: Rogers’ stuff was outstanding after missing two years due to shoulder problems, but can he pitch more than three innings every five days?
13. Caleb Gindl, OF: He’s a small outfielder and very low on tools, but his production at the plate has been impressive.
14. Jake Odorizzi, RHP: He has advanced command and control for his age, but Odorizzi’s stuff has yet to take the expected step forward.
15. Zach Braddock, LHP: This power lefty took a big step forward with a move to bullpen; he has the ceiling of a set-up man.

Big shocker that Escobar is a 5 star. For more analysis, visit:

http://i94sports.com/articles/milwaukee-brewers/baseball-prospectus-ranks-the-brewers.html

Racine Native Butler joins the Mavericks

2010-02-14T21:00:00.000-05:00

http://my.journaltimes.com/post/woelfel-world-of-sports/caron_butler_excited_to_join_title_contender.html

Good for him, honestly. He's a good, not great, player, and should help the Mavericks become a better team than they would have been with Josh Howard. Brenden Haywood might be the better part of this deal though. Nice guy who is willing to do the dirty work, who should benefit with having a real point guard for a change. The Wizards didn't get much at all, I feel like they could have gotten significantly more even if they managed to get rid of that bum DeShawn Stevenson, perhaps they are simply getting rid of anyone they can. But more importantly, the first domino fell relatively early. Should the Bucks inquire about Jamison even though his contract is a complete albatross.

Cromwell gets the job

2010-02-14T00:57:00.000-05:00

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/02/10/rams-hire-nolan-cromwell-as-receivers-coach/

Makes sense, long-time St. Louis, I mean Los Angeles, no I mean St. Louis, no Los Angeles Ram, coming back to his old franchise. Interesting that a former S would become the WR coach. Perhaps he would be able to provide some insight from a defensive perspective? I like it. Sounds innovative to say the least. I will say that the Rams need help, and a ton of it. Perhaps he will be mentoring former UW-Whitewater WR Derek Stanley

McClung gets a raise, sort of

2010-02-14T00:53:00.000-05:00

http://twitter.com/JoeFrisaro/statuses/8942983242

Seth McClung made $200,000 more recently all because of a simple typo or misinformation or a cyber-world collapse. Either way, its no chump change. Way to go. That's what I call a bank error in your favor.