It’s rare that a game can captivate the audience. The best contests are ones played at the highest stakes. Recent Super Bowl memories involving my Giants, who once again will play the Patriots four years later, come to mind. Most notably, last year’s World Series that saw the Cards down to their final out in Game Six only to break Texas hearts in epic fashion. You never know when you’re going to see a game for the ages that won’t ever be forgotten.

I’ve always been a huge tennis fan. Grew up playing it and idolizing Jimmy Connors and John McEnroe. A classic 80′s kid who always rooted against Ivan Lendl. To my kid eyes, he was the bad guy who wrecked more U.S. Opens for Connors and McEnroe. Back then, that’s just how it was. Sports were different. More patriotic. Good versus evil. Now, almost all athletes are embraced unless you turn your back on a city like LeBron James, fitting the classic bad guy role to a tee in Miami. The kind of story big media companies like ESPN need for ratings. Milk it for all its worth. All week, we’ll hear about Eli Manning and Tom Brady. Can Brady exact revenge four years later or will Eli etch his name in stone among great quarterbacks by winning a second Super Bowl, joining the likes of Starr, Bradshaw, Montana and Elway to rattle off a few. Only Brady and Ben Roethlisberger are active QBs that’ve won at least two Super Bowls.

While the debate will go all the way up to game time, we’ll devote this space to a new tennis rivalry born following an epic match played between Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal. In the longest played grand slam final in the Open Era, Djokovic repeated as champion by prevailing in five grueling sets over Nadal, 5-7, 6-4, 6-2, 6-7 (5), 7-5, capturing his second consecutive Australian Open (third down under). A match that featured twists and turns along with death defying rallies which even left us breathless lasted a ridiculous five hours and fifty-three minutes. To put that into perspective, most hockey and basketball games take at most two and a half hours. The only thing that compares is an epic NHL playoff game that goes four overtimes, keeping fans up into early hours.

The difference is neither Djokovic or Nadal had an extended period off. Aside from a brief rain delay before they closed the roof at Melbourne Park, the two combatants only used changeovers to replenish energy burnt. Some games take forever to complete due to the ferocity of the points. It’s those that go to multiple deuces and see groundstroke for groundstroke matched along with running fit for a marathon that mesmerize tennis fans. Beside the physical toll it takes, there’s also the mental battle as well which see both players go through peaks and valleys. For two straight sets, the defending champion from Serbia had the No.2 ranked Spaniard on the ropes, pinning him six feet behind the baseline with heavy forehands and backhands struck with such force and precision that it was a miracle Nadal got most back. Having beaten Rafa in six straight finals, Nole had the mental edge. Serve big and go for broke, often to Nadal’s backhand where the errors have come. If not, then a short reply allowed Djoker to pounce as he did with a thumping forehand up the line to clinch an easy third set.

Would Nadal wilt under all the pressure? He’d lost to Djokovic at Wimbledon and the U.S. Open after defeating Roger Federer at the French. Federer did him a huge favor last year, ending Djokovic’s 43-match win streak with a tremendous semifinal triumph to reach the final at Roland Garros. Speaking of Federer, he hasn’t won a slam since the 2010 Australian Open- meaning that either Nadal (2 Frenches, Wimbledon and U.S. Open) or Djokovic (2 Australians, Wimbledon and U.S. Open) have shared the last eight. Rafa beat his top rival in four sets by again outbattling Federer, who blew a set and break lead. Another chink in the armor of the all-time winningest grand slam champion who still holds the record with 16. As Roger hits his 30′s, the question lingers whether he can add one more with Djokovic No.1 in the world while Nadal chases much like he did with Federer. Toss Andy Murray into the mix, who only took Djokovic five sets before falling in another crazy semifinal, and that’s three younger players who all pose a threat to the Maestro.

Sometimes, when you’re back’s against the wall, you let go. Djokovic was able to do that against Federer down match point at their memorable U.S. Open semifinal last Fall. The sound of that return winner crosscourt still can be heard along with a wild eruption from a mostly pro-Federer Arthur Ashe swayed by Novak to lend him support. Federer was never the same in body language and mind, allowing the more determined player to pull off the comeback. It’s what Nole does best. If he’s not overpowering opponents with unbelievable shots off full out sprints, Djoker is causing chaos with the best return in the game, constantly applying pressure. Andre Agassi was the standard when it came to returning with only Connors better. Djokovic might already be better than Andre. He’ll turn 25 later this year and now has gone from one major to five in a year. Amazing how things change. The confidence with which he plays with allows him to believe he can pull out any match no matter the pressure. Even if his legs start to weaken as was the case Sunday night, Nole is able to find that extra gear. 

In the previous six losses, Nadal was unable to push back against Djokovic. He never put him in a vulnerable position. However, his focus was incredible during a tight fourth set where he needed to hold serve every time. While Novak held much easier, Rafa’s games were a struggle but never more so than when he was love-40 with basically three match points for Djokovic. One foul up and it was curtains as ESPN team Chris Fowler, Patrick McEnroe and Brad Gilbert concluded. Instead of giving in, there was Rafa fighting with that warrior’s spirit that makes him such a crowd pleaser. Running down shots and then ripping an inside out forehand just out of Djokovic’s reach to ward off a second break chance, followed by a surprising backhand down the line that wrong footed the defending champ. Nadal saved all four break points by elevating his game. He served bigger and went for his shots. Something that hadn’t happened enough against the man we call Djoker. Only there’s nothing to joke about following one of the greatest seasons in tennis history.

The thing that made you love Rafa’s fight was his spirit, pumping his fists after every big point won, which brought the crowd into it. It would’ve been easier to just cave into Novak’s pressure. Nobody plays a more aggressive and electrifying style. The shots he pulls off border on insanity. If one had caught any of his five set epic against the equally shot making Murray, you would’ve been tired just watching. The angles both men found were jaw dropping. Nadal is the same way, able to run down would be winners and rip that forehand for his own like he again did to Federer at crucial moments. Djokovic kept pounding the ball to each side, forcing Rafa to scramble the entire fourth set only to see them returned with incredible pace. In the tiebreak, Novak had a 5-3 minibreak lead and was two points away from avoiding the climatic final set. But a resilient Rafa wasn’t ready to die, coming back to win the last four points, including a wild miss from Djokovic that was forced due to all the hustle.

When you watch these two play, there really isn’t much that separates them. Both do an awful lot of running to hit the extra shot. But Djokovic is more consistent at continuing to up the ante. Nadal flattened out his backhand more down the stretch but any time he left that slice backhand short, it was punished. Still, there was Rafa in position to finally beat Novak. He finally had gotten into a fifth set. Unchartered territory when they played. When Nadal broke Djokovic for 4-2, the crowd went wild thinking the obvious. It looked like Rafa would finally prevail. And really, it was his match to win or lose at that point. Djokovic had been broken and looked the worse for wear.

Only an amazing thing happened. A miscue from Nadal proved critical. Leading 30-15 in the seventh game with a chance to consolidate the break, Rafa missed a routine backhand wide with Djokovic toast. Nole had hustled to get one more shot over the net for Nadal and sometimes, that kinda yeoman effort pays off. We saw it on a Novak errant overhead moments later. However, it was Nadal who had an open court and missed the backhand down the line. With the crowd not realizing it, the correct call was made. Even if a desperate Rafa challenged. Replays confirmed a rarity. That a linesman got it right with the ball three inches wide. The point allowed Djokovic to breathe. He used the momentum to take the next two points and break back. Something which was a common theme in his win in New York City last September. Nadal never put him away. If he makes that shot, who knows. It really might’ve been a different outcome.

Given new life, Djokovic held easily for four all and then Nadal replied with his own hold for 5-4. But with the pressure squarely on his shoulders, Novak did his part to again level it five apiece. That’s when he turned up the heat one last time to break Rafa for 6-5. No matter how out of it he looks, you can never count out Djokovic. He pulled the same act against Federer. The man has an incredible hunger to win. He wants to prove he’s the best. If ever there was a testament to it, it came that final game. Nadal didn’t quit. Instead, he had a break point to once again get back on serve. But Djokovic saved it and then pointed to his chest and said a prayer which probably was, ‘I can do it. Please let me end this.‘ It was amusing. Nadal then got a bad break on a net cord which killed his cross court backhand from staying in, setting up championship point.

One final time, Djokovic dialed up a big serve up the tee that had a short reply from Nadal, allowing Novak to rip one more forehand winner to finally end one of the greatest matches ever. FIVE HOURS FIFTY THREE MINUTES!

A triumphant Djokovic fell flat on his back before ripping his shirt off and running to his cheering section that included long-term girlfriend Jelena Ristic. Some high fives were exchanged with his coach and team that have helped turn around his career from one hit wonder to best in the world. Pretty cool. Even cooler (well not really) was how exhausted both men were while the ceremony was going on. Each using the net to rest their legs with both on the verge of collapsing before the Australian Open team supplied chairs and large Evian water bottles. It really was bizarre. Still, they weren’t about to miss tennis legend Rod Laver, who presented them with their rewards. For Nadal, a runner’s up crown that he could be proud of while for Djokovic, another large trophy to add to his collection.

Despite being weary, both made nice speeches with each paying the other proper respect for the memorable match they had just played. A new rivalry has been born. Even if it’s been all Djokovic lately, this was the kinda day where there were no losers. Only winners, which would make Gene Hackman’s classic Norman Dale Hoosiers character proud. Maybe we’ll finally get Rafa vs Nole at the French. If only it weren’t so far away. For now, every tennis fan can be proud.

The Islanders are part of the fabric of New York sports that must be preserved.

Maybe August 1, 2011 won’t be the end for the New York Islanders. With all the doom and gloom surrounding a franchise that’s been in existence since 1972, it’s hard to predict if last Monday’s no vote regarding owner Charles Wang’s referendum for a new Coliseum complete with minor league complex, necessarily spells doom for Long Island.

As was previously noted, the idea to push ahead a $400 million project on Nassau County without Mr. Wang coughing up anything aside from picking up the two million tab for a yes vote didn’t make much sense. Especially given the national debt crisis. For one of the heaviest taxed counties, the timing couldn’t have been worse. So perhaps it wasn’t a shock that a majority voted it down- unwilling to have more taken from their pockets for a referendum that could’ve cost as much as $800 million over a 30-year period had it passed.

The reality is 57 percent voted against the new proposal that came on the heels of Wang’s dream Lighthouse scenario which he wasted time/money on before moving forward. While he would’ve ponied up an arm and a leg had there been overwhelming support for the Lighthouse, the Islander club owner was unwilling to spend a nickel for his latest proposal. It was like he expected the public to deliver a new arena with all the trimmings because he lost over $250 million. Part of it’s the existing lease that runs out in 2015, unable to generate concession revenue- leading to higher costs and lower turnout. Combine that with a team that’s had little success since a ’93 Cinderella run and it’s easy to explain why the Islanders are in trouble.

“I’m heartbroken that this was not passed.  We’re disappointed that the referendum pertaining to the arena was not voted by the people of Nassau County as being a move in the right direction for growth,” explained Wang following the disappointing result that was influenced by Democratic opponents. ”I feel that the sound bites ruled the day and not the facts. Right now, it’s an emotional time and we’re not going to make any comments on any specific next steps.

We’re committed to the Nassau Coliseum until the year 2015 and like we’ve said all along, we will honor our lease.”

If only it all hinged on franchise building blocks John Tavares and No.1 pick Ryan Strome. The on-ice product is on the way back up thanks to a young core led by Tavares, featuring a deep pool up front including Michael Grabner, Kyle Okposo, Matt Moulson, Blake Comeau, P.A. Parenteau, Josh Bailey and Nino Neiderreiter- likely comprising the top three lines, anchored by emerging star Tavares. Toss in prospects Brock Nelson, Kirill Kabanov, Casey Cizikas, Johan Sundstrom, plus perhaps Kirill Petrov and the Isles boast plenty of talent for the future.

They’ve already begun revamping the blueline, which should get a boost with the return of anchor Mark Streit. Assuming he rounds into form along with the continued development of Andrew MacDonald, Travis Hamonic and Ty Wishart, the Islanders should be in good shape. Vets Mark Eaton, Mike Mottau and Milan Jurcina all come back. Don’t forget young pups Calvin de haan and Matt Donovan, who’ll try to make some hey next month at camp.

Certainly, the organization possesses a wealth of talent that should make the Islanders competitive for years. With disgruntled vet Evgeni Nabokov expected to report, suddenly it’s a three ring goalie circus with incumbent Rick DiPietro and ’10-11 revelation Al Montoya, leaving youngsters Kevin Poulin, Mikko Koskinen and Anders Nilsson more time to grow.

How can Islander faithful get past last week’s defeat and try to look forward to a roster GM Garth Snow’s built? It’s impossible for anyone not to ponder the plight of the franchise. Unless Wang and Nassau County executive Ed Mangano come up with a new plan, the team is done with Nassau once the lease ends at the conclusion of 2014-15. Considering the opposition in a stubborn county, maybe it’s best for Wang to consider alternatives such as moving to Queens or even Brooklyn if Nets’ billionaire owner Mikhail Prokhorov changes his mind about icing a hockey team. Barclays Center will be an impossible commute unless fans are willing to make the trip on the tracks. Not exactly the easiest choice.

A new arena in Queens next to Citi Field would be a marketing dream which could provide easier driver access with public transportation also available. Would the city be willing to help build it for Wang, preserving a franchise rich in tradition? This isn’t the Yankees, Mets, Giants/Jets or Devils getting their own palaces. Even the Nets knew when it was time to get out of the disaster known as New Jersey Sports And Entertainment Authority (NJSEA). If the lockout ever ends, they’ll play out a second year in Newark and then finally reroute to Brooklyn.

The Islanders seem like an afterthought much like the four consecutive Cups they won from 1980-83, dominating hockey. Maybe it’s cause of where they play. It’s still unfair to forget the impact of the bright orange and dark navy blue, who pushed around the Great One to win one final Cup before the Oilers took the mantle away from Al Arbour, Bryan Trottier, Denis Potvin, Mike Bossy, Billy Smith, Bobby Nystrom, Butch Goring, Clark Gillies, Ken Morrow, Bob Bourne, Duane and Brent Sutter.

Those Islander teams boasted some of the greatest collection of talent to ever lace ‘em up. Imagine losing a franchise that was the gold standard three decades before the Yankees, Devils and even the Giants. The Bronx Bombers never won four straight, narrowly missing in the ’01 Fall Classic on the heels of 9/11. Out of that era, I choose the one my team lost to Arizona over ’96, ’98-00 because of what it meant to New York City and our country.

As a hockey blogger who’s followed the sport since the late 80′s, I can’t imagine life without the Islanders. They’ve always been the Rangers’ biggest rival. From all the classic series when they arrived to the old “19—40 chants,” until 1994 finally erased it forever, Long Island has always been our bitter enemy. As players from both sides have noted, the passion in the stands is what makes it so special. The energy and electricity at MSG or Nassau Coliseum are what make the games compelling. With apologies to the Devils, who have become our most universally loathed rival based on recent history, it’s the Islanders that are still No.1 in my book. When they’re good again, it’ll change instantly.

Having three teams in the Tri-State area have spoiled us. Thank God because if we didn’t have the Devils, Islanders and Rangers, hockey would hardly get any press. The Isles are disrespected by both the Daily News and New York Post, who rarely have more than a blurb. Sure. They’re from Long Island and yes, the economy has contributed. But they’re still a New York team. If they went far or won a Cup, suddenly both rags would jump all over it, putting them on the back page over meaningless June baseball. Don’t tell WFAN.

Even hockey detractor Mike Francesa had Mr. Wang on in studio last week about the referendum. Nobody wants to see them relocate with potential suitors Kansas City and Quebec salivating. Ever since the new arena was voted down, the Islanders have gotten a lot more coverage. Suddenly, people care. Ranger and Devil fans have chimed in, hoping they’ll stay. You have to be heartless not to feel a little compassion for the Islanders. In ’95 with the Devils winning a first Cup, they almost left for Nashville. I was smack against it despite Martin Brodeur tormenting us for the next decade.

Rivalries are what make sports great theater. You have it in every sport with the latest installment of Yanks/Red Sox that concluded last night at Fenway. This upcoming season marks the 40th Anniversary for the Islanders. Forty years of hatred between two intense fan bases, whose emotions run high when the two teams take the ice. Whether it’s “Rangers Suck,” at The Coliseum or “Potvin Sucks,” at The Garden, this classic rivalry is one that MATTERS. Toss out the standings, stats or the names on the backs. It’s always been about the logo on the front. Players have changed allegiances. Each fanbase have welcomed a once hated enemy with open arms.

Chris Simon was once ours. A good Blueshirt when suddenly he became Public Enemy number one after his dangerous baseball bat swing connected with Ryan Hollweg’s neck. Thankfully, he was okay. Pat Lafontaine once donned all three New York jerseys, finishing his career on Broadway after successful stints with the Islanders and Sabres. Bryan Berard won a Calder with the Isles, eventually joining up with the Rangers. The list is endless. Greg Gilbert. Glenn Healy. Ray Ferraro. Pat Flatley. Matt Schneider. Mike Mottau, has represented all three locals. Steve Thomas, who played on both the Meadowbrook and the Turnpike- has a son Christian Thomas, who the Rangers drafted in ’10. Don’t forget key ’93 pieces Darius Kasparaitis and Vlad Malakhov also played in the Big Apple during the Dark Ages. Even ’94 Ranger architect Neil Smith had an abbreviated stay on Long Island before resigning due to ‘philosophical differences‘ with Charles Wang. Ironically, MSG boss James Dolan, who has a home on Long Island, asked Ranger fans to endorse Wang’s referendum.

The Islanders mean a lot to New York even if a select number of Blueshirt supporters can’t resist taking shots. This isn’t about having them to beat up. Or have we forgotten that the Isles are the grittier, scrappier bunch who bring a lunch pail work ethic to this rivalry? Sure. We have fatter pockets. But that’s never meant much against a classic rival.

The buzz will always be there as long as our blood sibling exists. It would be a shame if all that vanished in 2015.

There’s so much happening in sports these days. It just never seems to end. What. With the exciting Masters that saw Tiger fail while younger competition stepped up, the Knicks back in the playoffs versus the hated Celtics, the Rangers battling old nemesis Washington, plus the plight of two New York baseball teams who only play in the same city but sure aren’t the same, it never stops.

Not in the city that never sleeps where beloved April baseball is front and CENTER. Who cares about the prayoffs playoffs?!?!?!?!?! The Knicks and Rangers both in at the same time means Hell must have frozen over or perhaps 2012 really is the acopalypse for mankind. James Dolan actually gets to steal more money from loyal fans because his two Garden main attractions with apologies to the Liberty, are playing meaningful games this Spring for the first time since ’97. Some 14 years ago before this blog and so many others along with the radio madness that’s become WFAN with callers ready to jump off the Verrazano after 15 games are played of a 162-game season.

The Yanks are in first after their great comeback over the Birds assisted by Buck Showalter, who didn’t load the bases to set up the force at home for Jorge Posada. Who cares if his homer tied it off immortal closer Kevin Gregg? Posada was a perfect double play candidate. Instead, the great Uncle Buck watched Mr. Clutch, Nick Swisher’s sac fly score Mark Teixeira for the Bronx Bombers’ two-game sweep to get back into first.

But Jeter’s finished and Phil Hughes needs to be taken out of the rotation for Old and Older Bartolo Colon. Brett Gardner sucks! Get him outta here borrowing a classic line from Jerome of Manhattan. Imagine if these pampered fans rooted for the Mets. There’s nothing Amazin’ about what’s going on in Flushing where you can probably hear the sound of toilets, signifying the putrid homestand under new skipper Terry Collins. The Mets won one game and lost six, falling to a suicidal 4-9. We kid. They can’t be this bad. Can they? Well, if Pelfrey continues his inconsistencies and Jon Niese isn’t a lock, then that rotation sure weakens in a hurry. Even R.A. Dickey’s looked human.

Jose Reyes is hitting and reaching base daily but not stealing much. David Wright looks primed for a big year but his fly to the warning track left the bases jacked with two outs in the bottom of the ninth, allowing Colorado to escape in the first of a doubleheader. Instead, it was all for naught as they blew leads in all four games, allowing the Rockies to sweep highlighted by Troy Tulowitzki’s four home runs.  But the season’s ovah! Well, if you believe that Family Guy skit.

Folks. Baseball’s long and teams can turn it around. The Mets at one point last year were eight over .500 with Jerry Manuel in the dugout laughing to every paycheck. Relax!

Besides, there are bigger things going on. Knicks/Celts for the first time since Ewing and Jackson in ’89. And the Rangers/Caps with King Henrik looking to even it up tonight. Paging Marian Gaborik! This is a fun time to enjoy playoffs for both Garden teams when it only happens every 14 years. Better cherish it.

As usual, it wasn’t easy for the Knicks after giving up a preposterous 68 points in the first half to the Nets. Alright. As J-Beck says, Knicks/Nets is a rivalry even if it’s not quite on the level of Rangers/Devils or even Yankees/Mets. And those who know me know I hardly view Yanks/Mets that way because they’re in different leagues. Unless they’re facing each other more than six times a la the Glory Days when this town ruled baseball, it really shouldn’t matter.

Back to the Knicks, who outscored the Nets 62-48 in the second half to erase a 10-point halftime deficit. Embarrassing would be one way to describe the first 24 minutes where the Nets got whatever they wanted. Deron Williams returned after six games to rest his wrist and sparkled throughout. The Nets scored at will in the paint with Brook Lopez and Kris “Kardashian” Humphries cleaning up. When Anthony Morrow wasn’t connecting from downtown (4 triples) en route to a team high 30, Lopez and Humphries shared a dunk-a-thon to Bronx cheers from The Garden.

Sure. Amar’e Stoudemire, Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups were in synch- combining for 95 points. But without better attention on the defensive side, they don’t post their second straight win. Something Billups made sure to point out after what must’ve been a heated locker room at the break.

“This was a big game for us. We’ve got a lot to lose, they don’t. They just looked like they wanted it more than we did and we talked about that,” Mr. Big Shot said. “We came out immediately in the second half and just kind of turned the tide, momentum kind of went our way.”

When they all agreed that their first half was ‘unacceptable,’ that bodes well. A couple of nights after struggling to put away a shorthanded Magic, they knew they had to follow up with another ‘W.’ You knew the Nets would come hard. Especially with Deron back running the show to the tune of 22 points, eight dimes and eight rebounds. The kind of performance the electrifying former Utah All-Star’s capable of even if he missed a gimme that may have forced overtime in the waning seconds.

“I thought he was off a little bit, but man, he made some big plays for us,” Nets coach Avery Johnson noted. “Big shots, timely 3′s, good assists. But you could see there at the end, maybe he just ran out of gas a little bit.”

“Hopefully as we get better and mature, we can form a better rivalry,” Williams added.

Perhaps if Williams didn’t rush his final shot when he was more open than thought, it’s a different story. The do everything floor general also took a quick three in the final minute that didn’t come close. It was a couple of days prior that Billups forced up a three that allowed Orlando to force OT. Those types of baffling decisions are what frustrate us most about today’s game. Too often, star calibre talent are settling instead of taking the rock hard to the rim. As Justin said, what’s the rush? Use more clock and work for the good shot. Something Gene Hackman’s infamous Norman Dale would emphasize to Hickory in the classic Hoosiers.

It was the Knicks who got the job done, isolating Melo against Net waste of space Travis Outlaw for an easy deuce from about eight away on the left baseline. That’s where Anthony makes his living, reaching unguardable status in the game. Now, we’re seeing his best with three consecutive 35+ performances, becoming the third NBA player to accomplish that this season (Monta Ellis, LaMarcus Aldridge).

“It feels good, especially right now, the time that it’s happening,” a pleased Melo stated. “Must-win situations, games that we really need coming down the stretch, getting into the playoffs, it’s almost perfect timing for me to get into a groove like that.”

The Knicks (37-38) are now 9-12 with the former Nugget megastar. So much of it depends on Billups’ legs. When he returned from injury, the team struggled with Chauncey unable to guard anyone and inconsistent offensively. Last night, the big trio was more balanced, spreading the floor and creating better spacing.

While the offensive explosion was nice to see, credit Mike D’Antoni for utilizing Shelden Williams off the bench a fourth straight game. The big man provided a lift with solid D while also finishing strong twice. Jared Jeffries also atoned for his blunder with an outstanding effort, grabbing seven boards, four steals and even setting up teammates twice. Vet backup Anthony Carter also saw some big minutes in the final stanza, netting four and handing out five assists- even working well with Billups.

On a night they got nothing from Landry Fields and little production from supersub Toney Douglas, the orange and blue did what had to be done. We’d still like to see the talented rookie from Stanford look more comfortable with the more star-studded lineup. They must remember to involve Fields, who does many things well but suddenly isn’t as noticeable since the big trade that sent cohesive ex-mates Ray Felton, Danilo Gallinari, Wilson Chandler and Timofy Mozgov to Denver.

In order for these Knicks to have any postseason success, they’ll need Fields to contribute. Finding the right chemistry is essential along with putting together a consistent 48 minutes on both ends. It’s still a work in progress but at least they’re finding ways to win.

It was a familiar feeling last night in Mile High for St. John’s. I guess the NCAA crack committee wasn’t too kind when they rewarded our first team to make the Big Dance since 2002 Gonzaga, who’s in their 13th straight March Madness.

Nine years prior, the Red Storm were stopped by the Zags for a place in the Sweet Sixteen, 82-76 out West. However, that was a heavily favored No.2 seed many liked to make its first Final Four since 1985. Yesterday was different for Steve Lavin’s scrappy sixth seeded bunch who were no match for Mark Few’s tourney tough Zags.  What started out promising with Justin Brownlee sinking a three and a bucket for a 5-0 lead turned into a familiar nightmare for St. John’s fans.

Once the unfriendly 11th seed settled in and worked the ball to behemoth Robert Sacre, the Zags took full advantage of their size, scoring at will in the paint while holding a ridiculous edge on the glass (43-20). With the 7-foot monster hurting the Johnnies for nine points and nine rebounds along with 6-7 forward Elias Harris damaging the smaller Red Storm for 15, eight boards and three assists, it opened the perimeter up for Steven Gray, who hit four daggers on his way to 16 while spreading the wealth with five assists, six boards and a pair of steals.

“Their size was able to dominate at the rim and in the lane at both ends of the floor,” said Lavin who also played without icon Lou Carnesecca who couldn’t make the trip due to feeling ill.

“We haven’t been outrebounded like that all year.”

When your best rebounder is valuable small forward DJ Kennedy who sat helplessly on the bench inspiring his teammates, you’re in trouble. Unfortunately for what’s been a storybook season that saw our school become relevant again with 21 wins, they picked the wrong game to have an off night.

Full credit must be given to Gonzaga, who executed a great strategy using their size to draw doubles and reverse the ball to either Gray or leading scorer Marquise Carter, who paced the Zags with 24 including three treys while notching six rebounds and six helpers in a brilliant performance. Three-point shooting wasn’t supposed to be the Zags’ strength but as often is the case when you control a size edge, it forces the opposition to pay more intention to the interior. Gonzaga couldn’t miss, using a 10-0 run to surge ahead by eight.

With them also doing a stellar job neutralizing Dwight Hardy, it forced other St. John’s players to step up. In the first half, Paris Horne did all he could to keep them afloat netting 10 of 11, including two from downtown. Hardy, who still paced everyone with 26, didn’t score until the eight minute mark thanks to a swarming defense that gave him special attention.

Brownlee had a decent showing, finishing with 14 but it wasn’t enough against a hot team that entered on a nine-game win streak. It remains a mystery how they were seeded so low. Even if it was a down year for the West Coast, Gonzaga has proven they’re capable around this time and have a proven track record. Even if Kennedy had played, it likely wouldn’t have mattered. That’s how impressive the Zags were.

For St. John’s, they forced the issue on offense with Hardy blanketed. Kennedy replacement Sean Evans struggled with just four and six rebounds. Horne cooled off after a hot start and Brownlee was hot and cold even though he drained a long two to cut the deficit to 11 at the half.

Lavin tried Malik Boothe at the point to get Hardy free, which worked in the second half. However, he earned all 26 with most coming on nice finishes off drives. The former JFK star went 10 of 23 from the field and hit three of seven three’s along with three free throws. Most of the year, when Lavin’s team played well, they spread the ball. Thursday, that wasn’t the case with them totaling only nine assists while the Zags doubled up with 20. St. John’s also had some sloppy turnovers that led to easy transition baskets, putting them down by as many as 17.

Everytime they got close, someone from their tough opponent responded. Usually, a three from either Gray or Carter that took the wind out of their sails.

Sometimes, that’s how it is in this tournament. One minute, you’re as high as a kite dreaming of dancing all the way to the Final Four in Houston. The next, your season’s over. For 10 seniors who sacrificed so much to bring back respectability to this program, it was the end of an Era. One they can all hold their heads high and be proud of.

“When they get out a month, two, three months, you know, a year, five years from now, they’re going to look back and realize that they brought St. John’s basketball back,” Lavin pointed out. “While it doesn’t take the sting away from this loss, they set the bar high for anyone that follows.

“They gave our coaching staff a ride of a lifetime.”

That more than anything has been what 2010-11 is all about. Sure. It might’ve ended quicker than expected but did anyone have our school beating the likes of Duke and Pittsburgh when each was No.1? Or blowing the doors off cocky Uconn coach Jim Calhoun and Player Of The Year candidate Kemba Walker? Quality wins against Notre Dame, Georgetown, West Virginia and Marquette will be remembered along with the 8-2 record at MSG. Only Syracuse got the better of them with the rematch much closer.

So, the dream ends for this special group. Hardy. Kennedy. Boothe. Evans. Horne. Brownlee. Sixth Man Justin Burrell. Malik Stith.  Fan favorite Dele Coker. Rob Thomas. That’s who it’s all about. Ten players every St. John’s alum should remember for their dedication and hard work.

It’s definitely a bittersweet day. I hate Gonzaga for good reason. Two losses in a row to that team from the middle of nowhere. But they are good and an example of a program that I hope our university aspires to be. This is just the beginning for Lavin, who delivered one of the top recruiting classes in the land. He also saw some positives from athletic freshman Dwayne Polee, Jr. who didn’t look phased by the situation. More than you can say for an overrated reality dud.

There’s much to like about the direction St. John’s is headed. It finally feels like the sun will shine brightly on the Big East school in Queens. Let’s Go Redmen! Let’s Go Johnnies! Go Red Storm! Do It For DJ!

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been a St. John’s basketball fan. Raised by my Dad- a fellow alum, I was spoiled during the 80′s when St. John’s boasted one of the best programs in all of college hoops. I can still recite the names of Mullin, Berry, Jackson, Glass and Wennington. All part of our last Final Four before John Thompson and Patrick Ewing ruined it. 

Who knew I’d end up like many Knick fans, rooting for Ewing to bring the franchise back to the promised land while Chris Mullin starred for Golden State on the opposite end of the country. Crazy how things turn out. And when Mark Jackson was reunited with Ewing, I was in paradise. Alley oops tossed by my favorite college point guard to the former enemy at Madison Square Garden, making for insane posters on many kids walls.

Yeah. Growing up in the Big Apple was great. Especially because of my upbringing. I played basketball at the Jewish Community Center of Staten Island and wanted to be just like the guys I cheered for on TV. Even better, me and Dad went to Alumni Hall for some games. Memories I’ll cherish forever. There are some things you never forget. Those were as The Boss called them, Glory Days.

It amazes me now when I reflect back on how special Mullin was, or how high Walter Berry could fly. Or how steady Willie Glass was from the perimeter. How tough Bill Wennington is. A player who got the most of his ability, turning in a solid NBA career while winning championships with Michael Jordan and the Bulls. I guess in a twisted sense, Wennington got the last laugh on Ewing.

There were others during that fun Era where anything felt possible. Matt Brust. Shelton Jones. Ron Rowan. Malik Sealy. Robert Werdann. Greg “Boo” Harvey. Chucky Sproling. David Cain. Lamont Middleton. There are too many more to list during the days of The Sweater, Lou Carnesecca. The fun loving coach who made you smile and laugh just by his mannerisms. He still hasn’t lost that sixth sense yet, rooting on the first 20-win team in over a decade under Steve Lavin.

No matter what happens from this point out, the run these 10 seniors have been on since turning around their season in a stunning upset of Duke will never be forgotten. For years, we’ve waited for this kind of gritty roster who won you over with their heart and fire on both ends. Who knew Dwight Hardy would emerge into a Big East Player Of The Year candidate after blowout losses to Louisville and Georgetown? At that point, they looked done.

But Lavin kept them together. As it turned out, there was a little Louie Magic left with our Red Storm finally rising. I’ll never get used to that name. To me, they’ll always be the St. John’s Redmen. So, as leading scorer Hardy, D.J. Kennedy, Justin Brownlee, n Paris Horne, Justin Burrell, Sean Evans and emotional leader Malik Boothe take the floor for their Big East quarterfinal with Rutgers right now, let’s savor how special this group have been. Coming together at the right time to make their first Big Dance since Omar Cook played.

A run that saw our school beat some of the league best in potential No.1 seed Pitt, Uconn, Cincinnati, fading Villanova,to get to 20 wins while finishing fifth (12-6) in the toughest conference in the land, should always be remembered. Never take for granted what these young men have accomplished. Becoming a T-E-A-M. The opposite of what’s taking place in South Beach. In order to have success, that’s how it’s gotta be. A good line from The Fray’s “Over My Head (In A Cable Car).”

The chant will be “Let’s Go Johnnies” against dangerous Jonathan Mitchell and the Scarlet Knights from Piscataway with a semifinal berth against Syracuse on the line. It won’t come easy. Just ask ‘Nova after blowing a 16-point halftime lead and falling on a last second shot to South Florida- further endangering their NCAA hopes? Anything can happen in these tournaments.

It’s true St. John’s has owned MSG with a 7-1 record. The only loss a blowout at the hands of the Orange before they became a team. You know they want another shot at them. Never look ahead. But only at what’s in front of you. That will be Lavin’s theme all day.

One which they must keep when their name finally gets called on Selection Sunday. Something that’s felt like forever will finally end with more excitement and anticipation than there’s been in quite some time. No matter what, savor it.

WE ARE ST. JOHN’S!!!!!

Last night, the Knicks lost to the Magic 116-110 in Orlando. It wasn’t too startling that the new look orange and blue couldn’t follow up their big win over the Heat with another against Dwight Howard and the Magic.

Not surprisingly, D-Howard had his way inside finishing with 30 points, 16 rebounds and five blocks. The big man has been hot lately. So, he did what was expected against our smaller lineup minus a legit big. Maybe if they get Marc Gasol in the offseason, that changes. But don’t look now as the Grizzlies off a big win over the Spurs are in the playoffs if it ended today. Not that anyone should expect him to re-up there. Do the Knicks have enough space for Pau’s younger, underrated brother? That remains to be seen.

The Knicks led much of the way last night, even taking an 11-point lead to the locker room courtest of a tweet from Patrick McEnroe. It’s always refereshing when a famous person responds back. Cool stuff from one of tennis’ best analysts.

Unfortunately, the Knicks couldn’t hold off the Magic who got a huge second half from Jameer Nelson with the former Temple standout exploding for 23 points after halftime. He only had three prior. I’ve always maintained that Nelson is the guy you have to contain. Howard will get his points. It’s just a matter of keeping his sidekicks in check. The Knicks held Jason Richardson to eight. No other Orlando starter hit double digits.

Easy win, right? Wrong. Orlando took full advantage of their bench, outscoring the Knicks 44-11 with J.J. Redick, Ryan Anderson and Quentin Richardson (seriously) combining for 38 of the 44. Even Chris Duhon gave Stan Van Gundy some important minutes, chipping in with a bucket and dropping five dimes.

There in lies the dilemma for the star-studded Knicks who now are basically three stars. In Game Four of the New Era, Chauncey Billups, Amar’e Stoudemire and Carmelo Anthony combined for 86 of the club’s 110.  It’s great when your best players are your best. However, when you get little from almost everybody else sans other starters Landry Fields (6 and 11) and Shawne Williams (8 and 6), it’s usually not a winning formula.

By now, everyone knows the Knicks bench was seriously weakened when they made the ‘Melo trade. It’s up to Mike D’Antoni to find the right combos to alleviate pressure from his dynamic trio. Complicating matters, Billups, who’s been the best player since the trade, suffered a bruised hip courtesy of a Howard pick. The former Finals MVP won’t play tonight against another tough opponent in Chris Paul and the Hornets, who visit The Garden soon.

Here’s a chance to see what ‘Melo and Amar’e can do minus the new floor general. It probably means an expanded role for long distance shooter Toney Douglas. Look for vet backup Anthony Carter to get back in D’Antoni’s rotation. Does he start over Douglas? Bill Walker has also been providing a boost off the bench. He’ll need to continue that trend tonight.

It should be noted that the Knicks already beat the Hornets at New Orleans last December 100-92 behind 34 and 10 boards from Stoudemire- extending their dominance over Paul and Co. to five straight. That was a different team though with complements Danilo Gallinari and Wilson Chandler, plus Ray Felton, who have combined to make Denver 3-1 since moving off Broadway.

This will be a true test to see where the Knicks are. Especially minus Billups’ leadership. He’s largely responsible for their two wins. Now, there’s a void not only in the middle but at the one. Can they overcome that? The bench just might have to take on a larger role.

It’s been a couple of days since Duke Snider passed away of natural causes at the age of 84. The former Brooklyn/LA Dodger played in baseball’s Golden Era when New York was King of America’s past time.

Imagine having three New York baseball teams who were always playing in World Series during the late 40′s and 50′s. Not only did the Yankees, Dodgers and Giants turn the town upside down but combined to win 10 world championships, including eight straight from 1949-56. Spanning 1947-57 before the Dodgers left for Hollywood with the Giants right behind, our three baseball franchises combined for 17 World Series appearances, nine championships and seven Subway Series when it wasn’t a pipe dream.

A big reason for New York’s dominance was our three Golden Age center fielders. Or as referred to in Terry Cashman’s ode to the Boys Of Summer Talkin’ Baseball, “Willie, Mickey and the Duke.” Of course, he was referring to Willie Mays, Mickey Mantle and Duke Snider. A Hall Of Fame trio who owned the spotlight patrolling baseball’s sexiest position.

Growing up as a kid, I heard stories from Dad about New York Giant games he attended at the Polo Grounds along with Yankee games at the original Stadium before all the renovations, etc. It’s still hard to believe that it doesn’t exist anymore. That aside, every time we drive through the Bronx, he always notes where the Polo Grounds once stood. Heck. We’ve been on the street where the apartment buildings are with one image left from a special time.

I often wonder what it must’ve been like growing up with three teams to choose from. Whether it was the Bronx Bombers or the Giants or Brooklyn’s best and Ebbets Field, it sounds like a baseball haven. If I could have a time machine, I’d definitely experience that Golden Era when Mays, Mantle and Snider were treating New Yorkers to an extraordinary brand of baseball.

As has been told by Ralph Branca, the infamous Brooklyn Dodger who gave up Bobby Thomson’s dramatic pennant clinching home run in ’51, the Giants stole signs that year and to this day, he still believes our own Staten Island Scot knew what was coming. Regardless, it’ll always be one of those signature moments that make baseball such a great game. If you’re on the Giants’ side, prior to that fateful ninth, your team had scored one run in 17 innings at home. If you’re a Dodger fan, you believe Thomson knew. One of those classic sportsbar debates.

If only that kind of passion still existed. Not the same recycled crap we get these days on WFAN or ESPN Radio. They just don’t make ‘em like Willie, Mickey and The Duke. Of course, Snider always was behind both Mays and Mantle, who fans still argue over who was better. I’m a Yankee fan and while The Mick was New York, I’ve always been on the Say Hey Kid’s side. There in lies the problem as the other Cooperstown center fielder never gets his due despite a brilliant career.

Perhaps it’s like Branca told Steve Somers yesterday in an interview that he always was behind Jackie Robinson and Pee Wee Reese. A great double play combo with Robinson symbolic for breaking the barrier as the first Negro to play in the majors. Every year, baseball celebrates Jackie Robinson Day commemorating April 15, 1947 when No.42 debuted in Dodger blue. The biggest had to be 1997 with it the 50-Year Anniversary. I remember Topps having a special Jackie Robinson series as part of their baseball set. I still own a few of the cool cards at home.

It’s like taking a trip down memory lane. And we don’t mean NAS. So, how does The Duke of Flatbush stack up? Here are the highlights:

DUKE SNIDER (The Silver Fox)

-Signed with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1943

-Debuted on April 17, 1947

-Elected Baseball Hall Of Fame in 1980

-Spent 16 seasons with BK/LA Dodgers totaling 389 home runs, 1,271 RBI’s while batting .300 with 1,995 hits, 1,199 runs, 99 stolen bases plus 343 doubles and 82 triples

-Finished second for NL MVP in ’55 hitting .309 with 42 homers and a career best 136 RBI’s, which led the majors along with his 126 runs 

-Awarded ML Player of the Year (1955)

-Hit .320 with 4 HR and 7 RBI’s in finally beating the Yankees for the ’55 World Series

-Eight-time All-Star (’50-56, ’63) 

-Finished in the top 4 for MVP three times (’53-55)

-Played 18 seasons including one with the Mets in ’63 and his final year with the rival Giants (’64)

-40-or-more HR five consecutive years (’53-57)

-6 seasons 100+ RBI (’50-51, ’53-56)

-most hits one season, 199 (’50, ’54)

-most runs one season, 132 (’53)

-Career Totals: .295 BA, 407 HR, 1,333 RBI, 2,116 H, 1,259 R, 99 SB, 971 BB, 1,237 SO, .380 OBP, .540 SLG, .919 OPS

-Postseason: 6 WS (won in ’55/’59) .286-11-26

Who is the better superstar? It looks like we’re about to find out. A couple of days after the Knicks closed their long awaited blockbuster trade with the Nuggets for Carmelo Anthony, the Nets responded by making one of their own, acquiring Deron Williams from the Jazz earlier today.

Both are two top 10 players you build your franchise around. Though the Knicks are further along with Melo set to team with Amar’e Stoudemire beginning tonight in what will be a circus-like atmosphere at Madison Square Garden when the orange and blue host the Bucks on Legends Night. Yep. Talk about great timing. The likes of Walt “Clyde” Frazier, Earl “The Pearl” Monroe and popular Knick John Starks will all be in the building for Day One of Melo Madness. The Knicks’ new savior is being introduced now at a gala press conference.

So, did Jazzy Jim overpay for Melo? Is water wet? Is the sky blue? Is the price of gasoline insane? Of course, the foolish MSG owner panicked when the Nets played poker, making Denver a better offer chock full of potential lottery picks along with last year’s first rounder Derrick Favors and Devin Harris. Ironically, that same package wound up in Salt Lake City for Williams, who is arguably the best point guard in the league though we prefer Rajon Rondo.

What’s better to have? A franchise point guard or two of the best finishers along with a championship proven floor general in Chauncey Billups? It all depends on who you root for. The Nets are clearly in rebuilding mode, having also dumped Troy Murphy on Golden State for Brandan Wright and Dan Gadzuric. With Williams ready to team with center Brooke Lopez despite being unhappy after forcing Jerry Sloan into retirement, the Nets become much better. They now have one of the best one’s in the game who makes others around him better. But is he a coach killer? The Nets and quirky Russian billionaire owner Mikhail Prokhorov hope not. Avery Johnson is a good coach who knows what it takes to go deep into the playoffs. He may not be as demanding as Sloan but is cut out of the same mold.

The Nets risked three first round picks with potential lottery value for an unhappy player who isn’t signed after 2012. Will the gamble pay off? They must get Williams to buy into their plan for the future. Figure Dwight Howard to be at the top of the list.

While the Nets’ future remains cloudy, the Knicks coughed up half of MSG for the self-serving Melo. Sure. He’s one of the premier scorers in the game, able to beat opponents inside and out better than LeBron James, who too often drifts to the perimeter. Anthony is great at getting to the line and will relieve pressure from Stoudemire, who’s had to carry the load for the 28-26 Knicks, who sit sixth in the East. If Billups buys in to Mike D’Antoni’s run and gun system, then it will work. But it’s hard to see a half court veteran who likes playing D fitting in. The subtraction of a younger and faster Ray Felton might hinder the Knicks if Billups isn’t happy.

Anthony doesn’t play much defense and neither does Amar’e, who at least can block shots as will injury prone new starting center Ronny Turiaf. While a top four of Billups, Melo, Amar’e and bright rookie Landry Fields is great, questions linger about their bench. Sure. No ‘D’ uses a thin rotation, which can force his stars to play mega minutes. But without a reliable bench, there’s little shot at winning anything. Even if the time table isn’t to challenge for a championship now, you know Knick fans’ expectations have increased. No longer is it only about making the playoffs but seeing how far this star-laden team can go. All contingent on the chemistry on and off the court.

Gone are baby faces Danilo Gallinari and Wilson Chandler who were part of the 13-player monster trade that also involved the Timberwolves who took Eddy Curry and bust Anthony Randolph for key piece Corey Brewer. Figure Brewer to get some minutes under D’Antoni. Also gone are Felton and Russian big Timofey Mozgov, who the organization was reluctant to part with. That all changed once Dolan stepped in with rival Prokhorov looming.

This is a turf war. Especially with the future of the Nets in Brooklyn, who have strong basketball roots. So, the Knicks coughed up the kitchen sink including a 2014 first round pick, two second rounders plus cash just to deliver Anthony here along with Billups, Anthony Carter, Shelden Williams and former Knick draft pick Renaldo Balkman, who makes his triumphant return. What Knick fan isn’t excited about that?!?!?!?! And Balkman plays D and is a bundle of energy. Play him No ‘D!’

So, who wins? We won’t know for a while. The Knicks are further along in terms of contending now that they got two superstars. But the Celtics, Heat and Bulls are still ahead. It won’t be easy but it sure will be exciting to watch. Even if this blogger hated how much they parted with, how can you not get pumped up for this?

Knicks versus Nets never had more meaning. Melo vs Deron. Who will rule NYC first? Just wait and see.

Finally! Well, at least that’s what Amazin’ fans are saying today. Following another disappointing season, the Mets sacked GM Omar Minaya and manager Jerry Manuel today- confirming what had been the obvious.

So, the Wilpons finally shake things up and start fresh. Something their suffering fanbase have been dying for for quite some time.  Since Carlos Beltran took a called third strike against Cards’ hero Adam Wainwright leaving the bases loaded in the NLCS Game Seven, it’s all been downhill for a franchise that remains stuick on two championships (1969, 1986). What had looked so promising with that ’06 team fell apart in epic fashion.

Nobody could’ve predicted the ’07 and ’08 collapses, tormenting fans even more. Nor could anyone have foresaw all the injuries to key stars Jose Reyes, Carlos Beltran, K-Rod and Johan Santana the past two years, which killed any realistic chance of October baseball at their new ballpark, Citi Field.

Who also knew that David Wright would only hit five homers in his first season in the state of the art setting? Sometimes, you just can’t tell. Or that prize free agent Jason Bay would struggle even worse before being KO’d by a concussion. To quote a Guns N’ Roses song My Michelle, “Well, well, well, you never can tell.”

Such is how things went for the team in Queens, who were once front and center on SI with their mix master Minaya, leading credence to the SI jinx. When he changed managers two years ago in one of the worst PR moves ever, sacking Willie Randolph in the middle of the night on the West Coast, it was a black eye for the franchise. But they  responded under Manuel only to break hearts in September. Something that became a theme.

The hard truth is they were up against a better team in the Phillies, who were mentally tougher. This isn’t a knock on the Met core as much as it is giving props to Charlie Manuel’s bunch, who ran away with another division crown after acquiring Roy Oswalt from Houston. With a terrific trio of expected Cy winner Roy Halladay, Oswalt and resurgent ’09 World Series MVP Cole Hamels, the Phils are the favorites to win the pennant and could very well capture a second World Series in three years. Especially given the AL uncertainty.

None of this helps the Mets or their fans, who will once again have nothing to cheer for this Fall unless you consider hoping the Reds can upset Philly while the Giants beat Atlanta are going to make up for the failure of management. The Yankees are also playing Minnesota, having limped in.

What’s most important for the Mets is to address the problems by hiring the right GM, who will be given full autonomy to bring in a new skipper. Is John Hart on the shortlist? Will a new executive really promote from within with former ’86 hero Wally Backman, who managed Low-A Brooklyn to the Penn League finals before falling? It doesn’t seem to make a lot of sense. Yes, Backman is their guy but is it smart to move the fiery manager all the way up to the bigs? Our suggestion would be to give the former second baseman more time perhaps at a higher level.

Bobby Valentine would love the job but is he the right fit? His personality is fun but also can rub people the wrong way.  Joe Torre expressed interest but do they really want to bring in a man synonymous with four world titles in five years with the Bronx Bombers? It wouldn’t appease a fanbase who has to be tired of recycling names. Art Howe anyone?

The Mets need a GM and manager who’ll be on the same page- able to get the most out of a promising crop that includes first base slugger Ike Davis, catcher Josh Thole, second baseman Ruben Tejada, right fielder Lucas Duda along with pitchers Mike Pelfrey, Jonathon Niese and Dillon Gee. Assuming Reyes and Wright are back and Bay comes back healthy along with team MVP Angel Pagan, whoever takes over isn’t getting a bad hand as long as Luis Castillo and Oliver Perez are gone.

There’s also the matter of Beltran, who finished strong before his knee acted up again. Do they retain an aging center fielder who remains a question mark in center due to his knees? Beltran turns 34 next April 24 and will be in the final year of his contract. Is there any market for the former All-Star? That’ll probably be the toughest decision the new GM will have to make.

They also don’t know when Santana will return. If he makes it back before July, that would be positive. The Mets might want to take a look at Jenrry Mejia and should definitely bring back cult hero R.A. Dickey. The staff will be young. So, acquiring another vet is a must. Something Minaya failed at.

If the Amazin’s want to get back in the ballgame, they’re going to have to roll the dice. Especially competing against the Phillies and Braves. They can’t afford to be wrong. It sets up an interesting offseason.