Players Crib

The San Jose Sharks will host the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, April 14, 2011 at the HP Pavilion at 10:00 PM ET. Antti Niemi was a major reason the San Jose Sharks failed to make it past the Western Conference final a year ago with his spectacular play in goal for Chicago. Now that Niemi has traded in his Indian-head logo for a teal sweater, the Sharks are hoping he can play just as well in his second postseason as he did in his first when he helped end the Blackhawks' nearly five-decade title...

The Philadelphia Flyers will host the Buffalo Sabres on Thursday, April 14, 2011 at the Wells Fargo Center at 7:30 PM ET. The only Stanley Cup photos at the Flyers practice rink were from the 1970s. The locker room walls in their home arena were spotless. The mood was a bit reserved. This training camp scene, some eight months ago, was all the proof coach Peter Laviolette needed to know his team had the oomph to win the Stanley Cup they fell two wins shy of bringing back to Philadelphia in June. To...

The Boston Bruins will host the Montreal Canadiens on Thursday, April 14, 2011 at the TD Garden at 7:00 PM ET. Tim Thomas came out of playoff hibernation and played better than any goalie this season. Now, he'll try to be just as sharp in the postseason for the Boston Bruins. Carey Price spent most of last year's playoffs on the bench. Then, he started 70 games for the Montreal Canadiens. Another postseason starts Thursday in one of the NHL's richest rivalries and the goalies who didn't matter...

The Oklahoma City Thunder will travel to STAPLES Center to play against LA Lakers on Sunday, April 10, 2011 at 9:30 PM ET. Just last week the Los Angeles Lakers were in good position to get the Western Conference's top seed. Now there's no guarantee the two-time defending champs will finish in the top three. The slumping Lakers look to avoid losing five straight games for the first time in four years Sunday night when they host the Oklahoma City Thunder, one of two teams with faint hopes of surpassing...

The Sacramento Kings will travel to ORACLE Arena to play against Golden State Warriors on Sunday, April 10, 2011 at 9:00 PM ET. Long since eliminated from the Western Conference playoff race, the Golden State Warriors have done plenty of damage lately to some teams that haven't been. After three straight eye-opening victories over West playoff clubs, the Warriors get a look at a fellow lottery team as they try to extend their winning streak Sunday against the Sacramento Kings. To all the fans...

The Minnesota Wild will host the Dallas Stars on Sunday, April 10, 2011 at the Xcel Energy Center at 6:00 PM ET. Thanks to a late surge, the Dallas Stars have a chance to reach the playoffs on the final day of the season. The Stars, though, will need to beat the visiting Minnesota Wild on Sunday and get some help to secure their first postseason berth since 2007-08. To all the fans of Dallas Stars and Minnesota Wild around the world who don't have a chance to visit the stadium but don’t want to...

The Detroit Pistons will travel to Time Warner Cable Arena to play against Charlotte Bobcats on Sunday, April 10, 2011 at 6:00 PM ET. It's been a tumultuous season on and off the court for the Detroit Pistons, but they at least seem to be closing with some momentum at The Palace. Finding anything positive about their recent road performances has been considerably more difficult. The Pistons look to avoid their first 12-game road slide since the mid-1990s when they visit the also-lottery-bound Charlotte...

The New Orleans Hornets will travel to FedExForum to play against Memphis Grizzlies on Sunday, April 10, 2011 at 6:00 PM ET. In the past few days, the New Orleans Hornets and Memphis Grizzlies became the last two Western Conference teams to clinch playoff berths. Neither is locked into the final two postseason seeds, however. Hoping to make a push for the West's sixth seed, the Hornets and Grizzlies both look to continue their late-season surges when they meet Sunday at FedEx Forum. To all the...

The New Jersey Nets will travel to Air Canada Centre to play against Toronto Raptors on Sunday, April 10, 2011 at 6:00 PM ET. The last time the New Jersey Nets faced the Toronto Raptors, they were trading baskets in a wild triple-overtime thriller in London. There figures to be considerably less scoring -- and energy -- at Air Canada Centre on Sunday. To all the fans of New Jersey Nets and Toronto Raptors around the world who don't have a chance to visit the stadium but don’t want to miss the...

The Arizona Diamondbacks welcoming the Cincinnati Reds at the Chase Field on Sunday, April 10, 2011 at 4:10 PM ET. Now that the Cincinnati Reds' brief skid is over, they can again focus on building a streak in a positive direction. The Reds look to win their third straight series Sunday against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field. To all the fans of Cincinnati Reds and Arizona Diamondbacks around the world who don't have a chance to visit the stadium but don’t want to miss the live game of...

The Seattle Mariners welcoming the Cleveland Indians at the Safeco Field on Sunday, April 10, 2011 at 4:10 PM ET. Impressive pitching has put the Cleveland Indians in position to match their longest winning streak from last season. Josh Tomlin takes the mound for the visiting Indians as they try for a seventh consecutive victory and a three-game sweep of the Seattle Mariners on Sunday. To all the fans of Cleveland Indians and Seattle Mariners around the world who don't have a chance to visit the...

The San Francisco Giants welcoming the St. Louis Cardinals at the AT&T Park on Sunday, April 10, 2011 at 4:05 PM ET. The San Francisco Giants seem to have carried over some of the luster from their 2010 World Series run into their first two games at ATT Park. Following back-to-back wins in its last at-bat, San Francisco tries for a three-game sweep of the St. Louis Cardinals on Sunday. To all the fans of St. Louis Cardinals and San Francisco Giants around the world who don't have a chance...

The San Diego Padres welcoming the LA Dodgers at the Petco Park on Sunday, April 10, 2011 at 4:05 PM ET. Two wins in one day have the Los Angeles Dodgers on the verge of sweeping a road series from the San Diego Padres for the second straight season. The Dodgers look to accomplish that feat by handing the Padres a fourth straight loss Sunday at Petco Park. To all the fans of LA Dodgers and San Diego Padres around the world who don't have a chance to visit the stadium but don’t want to miss the...

The LA Angels welcoming the Toronto Blue Jays at the Angel Stadium of Anaheim on Sunday, April 10, 2011 at 3:35 PM ET. Jered Weaver has been brilliant so far for the Los Angeles Angels. With the Angels' bullpen needing a rest following Saturday's 14-inning contest, the team hopes its ace right-hander can deliver another masterful performance in his home debut. Weaver looks to win his first three starts for the first time since his rookie season Sunday when the Angels close a three-game series against...

The Boston Celtics will travel to AmericanAirlines Arena to play against Miami Heat on Sunday, April 10, 2011 at 3:30 PM ET. Somehow, after 79 games, nothing between the Boston Celtics and Miami Heat has been decided. Tied for the No. 2 spot in the Eastern Conference, one team will take a stranglehold on the race for home-court through at least the first two playoff rounds on Sunday when the Celtics and Heat meet in Miami. Boston is 3-0 in the season-series between the clubs, and has won 18 of...

The Atlanta Thrashers will host the Pittsburgh Penguins on Sunday, April 10, 2011 at the Philips Arena at 3:00 PM ET. The Pittsburgh Penguins were hoping to have something on the line in their regular-season finale. Instead, it will merely be a chance for them to sustain their momentum before heading into the playoffs. That may not be a problem against the Atlanta Thrashers. The Penguins look to continue their dominance of the Thrashers as the teams conclude the regular season at Philips Arena...

The Colorado Avalanche will host the Edmonton Oilers on Sunday, April 10, 2011 at the Pepsi Center at 3:00 PM ET. The Colorado Avalanche entered this season with optimism after reaching the playoffs in their first campaign under Joe Sacco. They might have had a little more after surging to first place in the Northwest Division in December. Then came a miserable slump that they still haven't shaken out of heading into Sunday's season finale against the visiting Edmonton Oilers, which will be the...

The New Jersey Devils will host the Boston Bruins on Sunday, April 10, 2011 at the Prudential Center at 3:00 PM ET. The Boston Bruins are locked into the third seed in the Eastern Conference, and will face Montreal in the first round. All that's left is a chance to sweep the season series from the New Jersey Devils for the first time in 25 years. Boston visits New Jersey on Sunday looking for its fifth straight win over the Devils. The Bruins (46-24-11) have clinched their third straight Northeast...

The Minnesota Twins welcoming the Oakland Athletics at the Target Field  on Sunday, April 10, 2011 at 2:10 PM ET. The Minnesota Twins had one of the top offenses in the majors last season. They haven't come close to that type of production in 2011. Minnesota tries to avoid losing its second straight game to the Oakland Athletics in Sunday's series finale at Target Field. To all the fans of Oakland Athletics and Minnesota Twins around the world who don't have a chance to visit the stadium...

The Milwaukee Brewers welcoming the Chicago Cubs at the Miller Park on Sunday, April 10, 2011 at 2:10 PM ET. Yovani Gallardo has not wasted any time building on his solid 2010 season. The Milwaukee right-hander has a good chance to continue his success overall and against the Chicago Cubs on Sunday at Miller Park. Gallardo (1-0, 1.20 ERA) won a career-high 14 games and made his first All-Star team last season. That effort also got him a contract extension that has not hindered his performance through...

The Chicago White Sox welcoming the Tampa Bay Rays at the U.S. Cellular Field on Sunday, April 10, 2011 at 2:10 PM ET. After another feeble offensive performance, frustration might be building for the Tampa Bay Rays. The Rays look to bounce back from their latest defeat and salvage a split of their four-game set with the Chicago White Sox on Sunday at U.S. Cellular Field. To all the fans of Tampa Bay Rays and Chicago White Sox around the world who don't have a chance to visit the stadium but don’t...

The Houston Astros welcoming the Florida Marlins at the Minute Maid Park on Sunday, April 10, 2011 at 2:05 PM ET. The Florida Marlins are off to a great start on their nine-game trip. A first-ever three-game sweep visiting the Houston Astros would make it even better. The Marlins go for their third straight victory Sunday when they play their final game in Houston this year. After scoring four times in its final three at-bats in Friday's 4-3 series-opening win, Florida (5-3) improved to 2-0 on...

The Pittsburgh Pirates welcoming the Colorado Rockies at the PNC Park on Sunday, April 10, 2011 at 1:35 PM ET. Now in his second full season in the majors, the Colorado Rockies are anticipating big things from Jhoulys Chacin. The talented right-hander lived up to expectations in his impressive season debut. Chacin takes the mound Sunday as the Rockies try for a sixth victory in seven games and close out a four-game set at the Pittsburgh Pirates. To all the fans of Colorado Rockies and Pittsburgh...

The Atlanta Braves welcoming the Philadelphia Phillies at the Turner Field on Sunday, April 10, 2011 at 1:35 PM ET. Cole Hamels opened this season with one of the worst outings of his career, but appeared ready to move on almost immediately after the game was over. Judging by his string of solid performances against the Atlanta Braves, the Philadelphia Phillies' left-hander could bounce back Sunday and record his first win at Turner Field in three seasons. To all the fans of Philadelphia Phillies...

The Baltimore Orioles welcoming the Texas Rangers at the Oriole Park at Camden Yards on Sunday, April 10, 2011 at 1:35 PM ET. After a rare quiet offensive performance in a doubleheader opener led to their first loss of the season, the Texas Rangers quickly got back on track -- and in a very big way. They'll look to continue their impressive production Sunday when they close a three-game set against the Baltimore Orioles. Rain on Friday forced Saturday's doubleheader and kept the Rangers the majors'...

The NY Mets welcoming the Washington Nationals at the Citi Field on Sunday, April 10, 2011 at 1:10 PM ET. Entering 2011, it was unclear how much the oft-injured duo of Carlos Beltran and Chris Young would contribute to the New York Mets. It's still early, but the prospects are promising. Beltran looks to build on a breakout performance at the plate while Young attempts to lead the Mets to another victory Sunday when they host the Washington Nationals in the finale of a three-game set. To all the...

The Detroit Tigers welcoming the Kansas City Royals at the Comerica Park on Sunday, April 10, 2011 at 1:05 PM ET. Production at the plate from Billy Butler isn't much of a surprise for the Kansas City Royals, but Alex Gordon is finally emerging as a potent offensive threat in 2011. Butler and Gordon look to continue their hot play as the Royals attempt to take a three-game series against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park on Sunday. To all the fans of Kansas City Royals and Detroit Tigers around...

The Chicago Bulls will travel to Amway Center to play against Orlando Magic on Sunday, April 10, 2011 at 1:00 PM ET. The Chicago Bulls have clinched the Eastern Conference's top seed, but first-year coach Tom Thibodeau isn't planning on resting his stars. Not when they have a chance to finish with the NBA's best record and earn home-court advantage throughout the playoffs. The Bulls appear to have a good chance of adding to their win total Sunday when they visit a short-handed Orlando Magic team...

The Chicago Blackhawks will host the Detroit Red Wings on Sunday, April 10, 2011 at the United Center at 12:30 PM ET. The defending Stanley Cup champion Chicago Blackhawks head into their regular-season finale uncertain to make the playoffs. They are, however, in control of their postseason destiny. Two days after getting off to a fast start and picking up a crucial win in Detroit, the Blackhawks look to earn a return trip to the playoffs when they host the Red Wings on Sunday. To all the fans...

The Phoenix Coyotes will host the San Jose Sharks on Saturday, April 9, 2011 at the HP Pavilion at 10:30 PM ET. The Phoenix Coyotes and San Jose Sharks will both be in the playoffs, but their seeding and opponents are still a mystery. The Sharks are well aware of what they need to do for seeding heading into the regular-season finale, while even a win for the Coyotes may not improve their positioning. To all the fans of Phoenix Coyotes and San Jose Sharks around the world who don't have a chance...

The Los Angeles Kings will host the Anaheim Ducks on Saturday, April 9, 2011 at the STAPLES Center at 10:30 PM ET. For the first time, the Los Angeles Kings and Anaheim Ducks will both be in the playoffs. It could be a short stay for the loser of Saturday night's regular-season finale at Staples Center. A loss would open the possibility of either club finishing with the No. 8 seed, and the Kings and Ducks should be inspired to avoid that fate when they complete a home-and-home set. To all the...

The Calgary Flames will host the Vancouver Canucks on Saturday, April 9, 2011 at the Scotiabank Saddledome at 10:00 PM ET. The Vancouver Canucks know where they're heading after this weekend. The Calgary Flames are also aware of their fate. The Canucks close out a record-breaking regular season Saturday night with a road matchup against the Flames, who will miss the playoffs for the second straight time. To all the fans of Vancouver Canucks and Calgary Flames around the world who don't have a...

The San Francisco Giants welcoming the AT&T Park at the St. Louis Cardinals on Saturday, April 9, 2011 at 10:05 PM ET. The San Francisco Giants recorded numerous big hits en route to winning the 2010 World Series. After raising their championship banner, Aaron Rowand provided another one in the home opener. The Giants look for their clutch hitting to carry over following Saturday night's ring ceremony as they continue their three-game set with the visiting St. Louis Cardinals. To all...

The Cleveland Indians welcoming the Safeco Field at the Seattle Mariners on Saturday, April 9, 2011 at 9:10 PM ET. Travis Hafner's career seemed to be on the decline due to injuries the last few years, but he's a big reason for the Cleveland Indians' current strong start. Hafner and the Indians will try for their sixth straight win Saturday night when they continue their weekend visit to the Seattle Mariners. To all the fans of Cleveland Indians and Seattle Mariners around the world who don't...

The LA Angels welcoming the Toronto Blue Jays at the Angel Stadium of Anaheim on Saturday, April 9, 2011 at 9:05 PM ET. Injuries and family issues have kept the Toronto Blue Jays from fielding a consistent lineup, but they've been able to count on their pitching staff for reliability. The surprising Blue Jays look to clinch their third straight series victory Saturday night when they continue a three-game set against the Los Angeles Angels. To all the fans of Toronto Blue Jays and LA Angels around...

The Minnesota Timveerwolves will travel to Pepsi Center to play against Denver Nuggets on Friday, April 9, 2011 at 9:00 PM ET. The Denver Nuggets will not host a first-round playoff series. However, a matchup with the Minnesota Timberwolves should help Denver move closer to clinching the fifth seed in the Western Conference standings. The Nuggets go for their sixth straight victory in this Northwest Division matchup Saturday night when the teams meet in Denver. To all the fans of Minnesota Timveerwolves...

The Cleveland Cavaliers will travel to Bradley Center to play against Milwaukee Bucks on Friday, April 9, 2011 at 8:30 PM ET. The only thing that stands in the way of the Cleveland Cavaliers finishing with the NBA's worst record is matchups against three other lottery-bound teams. On Saturday night, the Cavaliers will visit the Milwaukee Bucks, who continue a season-closing stretch without Andrew Bogut. To all the fans of Cleveland Cavaliers and Milwaukee Bucks around the world who don't have...

The LA Clippers will travel to Toyota Center to play against Houston Rocket on Friday, April 9, 2011 at 8:30 PM ET. Although the Houston Rockets have finally been eliminated from playoff contention, they still want to finish a difficult season on a positive note. The Rockets will take the court one night after their playoff hopes ended when they host the Los Angeles Clippers on Saturday. To all the fans of LA Clippers and Houston Rocket around the world who don't have a chance to visit the stadium...

The Arizona Diamonbacks welcoming the Cincinnati Reds at the Chase Field, Phoenix on Saturday, April 9, 2011 at 8:10 PM ET. To all the fans of Cincinnati Reds and Arizona Diamonbacks around the world who don't have a chance to visit the stadium but don’t want to miss the live game of your favorite baseball teams you can still watch Cincinnati Reds vs Arizona Diamonbacks baseball match on some live streaming site online like Justin.tv, Ustream and Sopcast Channels. Don't miss this action-packed...

The Boston Bruins  will host the Ottawa Senators on Saturday, April 9, 2011 at the TD Garden at 1:00 PM ET. The Boston Bruins aren't yet sure which seed they'll be or which team will occupy the other bench when they open the postseason at home next week. According to their coach, that hasn't stopped them from looking ahead. Claude Julien hopes for an improved effort from his team in the Bruins' regular-season home finale against the Ottawa Senators on Saturday. To all the fans of Ottawa Senators...

The NY Rangers will host the New Jersey Devils on Saturday, April 9, 2011 at the Madison Square Garden at 12:30 PM ET. Just like last year, the New York Rangers enter their regular-season finale hoping to avoid being kept out of the playoffs by one of their biggest rivals. This time, even a win might not be good enough to make it. While a regulation loss eliminates the Rangers, earning one or two points against the New Jersey Devils on Saturday would keep their playoff hopes alive but needing help...

The Shakhtar Donetsk and the Barcelona will meet at the Donbass Arena on Saturday, April 9, 2011. This Shakhtar Donetsk vs Barcelona Champions League Quarter-finals showdown will kick-off at exactly 18:45 GMT. To all the fans of Shakhtar Donetsk and Barcelona around the world who don't have a chance to visit the stadium but don’t want to miss the live game of your favorite soccer teams you can still watch Shakhtar Donetsk vs Barcelona soccer match on some live streaming site online like Justin.tv,...

The Manchester United and the Chelsea will meet at the Old Trafford on Saturday, April 9, 2011. This Manchester United vs Chelsea Champions League Quarter-finals showdown will kick-off at exactly 18:45 GMT. To all the fans of Manchester United vs Chelsea around the world who don't have a chance to visit the stadium but don’t want to miss the live game of your favorite soccer teams you can still watch Manchester United vs Chelsea soccer match on some live streaming site online like Justin.tv, Ustream...

The Anaheim Ducks will host the Los Angeles Kings on Friday, April 8, 2011 at the Honda Center at 10:00 PM ET. To all the fans of Los Angeles Kings and Anaheim Ducks around the world who don't have a chance to visit the stadium but don’t want to miss the live game of your favorite NHL hockey teams you can still watch Los Angeles Kings vs Anaheim Ducks hockey match on some live streaming site online like Justin.tv, Ustream and Sopcast Channels. Don't miss this action-packed match up because we...

The Phoenix Coyotes will host the San Jose Sharks on Friday, April 8, 2011 at the Jobing.com Arena at 10:00 PM ET. The Phoenix Coyotes need just one point to clinch a second consecutive playoff berth for the first time in 11 years. The result could be a first-round matchup with the San Jose Sharks, whom they've had little success against recently. San Jose seeks its ninth straight win over the host Coyotes on Friday night as the teams begin a home-and-home series to close the regular season. To...

The LA Lakers will travel to Rose Garden to play against Portland Trailblazers on Friday, April 8, 2011 at 10:00 PM ET. The Los Angeles Lakers know they won't be the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference, but a recent slump has kept them from locking up the No. 2 spot. The Lakers will try to avoid their fourth straight loss Friday night when they visit the Portland Trail Blazers, looking to complete a season sweep for the first time in 22 years. To all the fans of LA Lakers and Portland Trailblazers...

The Seattle Mariners welcoming the Cleveland Indians at the Safeco Field on Friday, April 8, 2011 at 10:10 PM ET. Seattle and Cleveland were expected to struggle in 2011. While the Mariners have done just that, the Indians have been a pleasant early surprise. Looking to snap a four-game skid, Seattle heads into its home opener Friday night against Cleveland, which heads west after a stunning sweep of a team expected to be among the best in the majors this season. To all the fans of Cleveland Indians...

The San Diego Padres welcoming the LA Dodgers at the Petco Park on Friday, April 8, 2011 at 10:05 PM ET. The San Diego Padres have never lost a start by Clayton Richard against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Richard will try to improve to 5-0 in his career against the Dodgers on Friday night when the Padres open a weekend series at home. To all the fans of LA Dodgers and San Diego Padres around the world who don't have a chance to visit the stadium but don’t want to miss the live game of your favorite...

The LA Angels welcoming the Toronto Blue Jays at the Angel Stadium of Anaheim on Friday, April 8, 2011 at 10:05 PM ET. Vernon Wells spent the past 12 seasons with the Toronto Blue Jays, becoming a franchise favorite while playing in the AL East shadows. In the sunshine of his first home opener with the big-budget Los Angeles Angels, Wells isn't sure how he'll feel seeing the Blue Jays across the way. To all the fans of Toronto Blue Jays and LA Angels around the world who don't have a chance to...

The Arizona Diamondbacks welcoming the Cincinnati Reds at the Chase Field on Friday, April 8, 2011 at 9:40 PM ET. The Arizona Diamondbacks could have a familiar name back in the lineup when they return from a week on the road to play their home opener on Friday night. Manager Kirk Gibson said Stephen Drew, limited to a pinch-hit role thus far because of a lower abdominal strain, could be at shortstop when the Diamondbacks take the field against the Cincinnati Reds, the first of nine straight at...

The Milwaukee Brewers welcoming the Chicago Cubs at the Miller Park on Friday, April 8, 2011 at 8:10 PM ET. The Milwaukee Brewers have turned things around at home after a slow start, but they haven't enjoyed any recent visits from the Chicago Cubs. Milwaukee will try to win its fourth straight Friday night when it opens a three-game series against the Cubs, who send Carlos Zambrano to the mound looking to win his seventh straight decision at Miller Park. To all the fans of Chicago Cubs and Milwaukee...

The Colorado Avalanche will host the Dallas Stars on Friday, April 8, 2011 at the Pepsi Center at 9:00 PM ET. Dallas is going down to the wire as it tries to lock down one of the Western Conference's final playoff berths. Scoring at the Pepsi Center for the first time in almost 2 1/2 years would be a huge step in the right direction. Looking to avoid their third consecutive shutout in Denver, the Stars go for the home-and-home sweep of the Avalanche on Friday night, hours after Colorado captain...

The Edmonton Oilers will host the Minnesota Wild on Friday, April 8, 2011 at the Rexall Place at 9:00 PM ET. Knowing for a while they wouldn't be a playoff team, the Edmonton Oilers could at least relish the role of spoiler down the stretch. They won't be able to call on that as a source of motivation in their final two games of the season. The Oilers hope to avoid a season sweep at the hands of the Minnesota Wild -- another non-playoff team -- on Friday night in their final home game of 2010-11. To...

The LA Clippers will travel to American Airlines Center to play against Dallas Mavericks on Friday, April 8, 2011 at 8:30 PM ET. To all the fans of LA Clippers and Dallas Mavericks around the world who don't have a chance to visit the stadium but don’t want to miss the live game of your favorite NBA basketball teams you can still watch LA Clippers vs Dallas Mavericks basketball match on some live streaming site online like Justin.tv, Ustream, Sopcast Channels and NBA League Pass. Don't miss this...

The Chicago White Sox welcoming the Tampa Bay Rays at the U.S. Cellular Field on Friday, April 8, 2011 at 8:10 PM ET. The winless Tampa Bay Rays can't seem to get anything going offensively. They might want to take a lesson from the Chicago White Sox. James Shields takes the mound opposite White Sox starter John Danks hoping to help visiting Tampa Bay to its first victory as the teams continue their four-game series Friday night. To all the fans of Tampa Bay Rays and Chicago White Sox around the...

The Nashville Predators will host the Columbus Blue Jackets on Friday, April 8, 2011 at the Bridgestone Arena at 8:00 PM ET. The Nashville Predators are on the verge of securing their sixth postseason appearance in seven seasons, but they won't be happy simply making the playoffs. Looking to continue their pursuit of home ice in the first round, the Predators try for a 17th consecutive home victory over the injury-plagued Columbus Blue Jackets when the teams meet Friday night. To all the fans...

The Sacramento Kings will travel to FedExForum to play against Memphis Grizzlies on Friday, April 8, 2011 at 8:00 PM ET. There's one playoff berth remaining in the NBA, and the Memphis Grizzlies have all but wrapped it up. They only need to defeat the visiting Sacramento Kings on Friday night to make it official and end a four-year postseason drought. To all the fans of Sacramento Kings and Memphis Grizzlies around the world who don't have a chance to visit the stadium but don’t want to miss the...

The Denver Nuggets will travel to Oklahoma City Arena to play against Oklahoma City Thunder on Friday, April 8, 2011 at 8:00 PM ET. The Oklahoma City Thunder took a major step toward winning the Northwest Division title in Denver earlier this week, then clinched it before the Nuggets had an opportunity to avenge that defeat. In another week, Denver might get a far more meaningful chance for revenge. A Nuggets win in Oklahoma City on Friday would all but lock up the Western Conference's fifth seed...

The Phoenix Suns will travel to New Orleans Arena to play against New Orleans Hornets on Friday, April 8, 2011 at 8:00 PM ET. The New Orleans Hornets failed to make a third consecutive playoff appearance last season due greatly to Chris Paul missing so much time. This season, Paul has stayed healthy and New Orleans is back in the playoffs. Two days after clinching a postseason berth, the Hornets look to maintain their momentum as Paul again tries to get the better of Steve Nash in a matchup with...

The Atlanta Braves welcoming the Philadelphia Phillies at the Turner Field on Friday, April 8, 2011 at 7:35 PM ET. Fans eager to see how the Braves stack up with the four-time defending NL East champion Phillies are getting a marquee matchup for Atlanta's home opener. In a pairing of two of the NL's top starting pitchers, Philadelphia's Cliff Lee will face Atlanta's Tim Hudson on Friday night in an early showdown between teams favored to win the division. To all the fans of Philadelphia Phillies...

The Charlotte Bobcats will travel to mericanAirlines Arena to play against Miami Heat on Friday, April 8, 2011 at 7:30 PM ET. Before facing the team they're battling for the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference, the Miami Heat are looking to avoid a second straight loss to a non-playoff team. It should be a lot easier to do it with Dwayne Wade on the court. After sitting out a game, Wade is expected to return Friday night as Miami hosts the Charlotte Bobcats. To all the fans of Charlotte Bobcats...

The Milwaukee Bucks will travel to The Palace of Auburn Hills to play against Detroit Pistons on Friday, April 8, 2011 at 7:30 PM ET. The Milwaukee Bucks earned one of their most noteworthy victories of the season in their latest game, but it wasn't enough to keep their playoff hopes alive. The eliminated Bucks now turn their focus toward ending a difficult campaign on a positive note, beginning Friday night against the Detroit Pistons. To all the fans of Milwaukee Bucks and Detroit Pistons around...

The Chicago Bulls will travel to Quicken Loans Arena to play against Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday, April 8, 2011 at 7:30 PM ET. The Chicago Bulls took a huge step towards securing the No. 1 spot in the Eastern Conference with a dominating performance their last time out. A matchup against the conference's worst club could help them clinch. Seeking a fifth consecutive win over the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Bulls begin a three-game trip Friday night looking to lock up the top seed in the East. To...

The Washington Wizards will travel to TD Garden to play against Boston Celtics on Friday, April 8, 2011 at 7:30 PM ET. The Boston Celtics have all but lost any shot of earning the top seed in the Eastern Conference. Their success against the Washington Wizards could go a long way in determining if the Celtics can clinch the No. 2 spot. Playing the Wizards in the first of two matchups over the next four days, Boston tries to get back on track at home Friday night before another crucial road showdown...

The Atlanta Thrashers will host the Carolina Hurricanes on Friday, April 8, 2011 at the Philips Arena at 7:30 PM ET. Thanks to the Atlanta Thrashers, the Carolina Hurricanes now have control of their playoff destiny. The Hurricanes know that if they win their final two games without going to a shootout they'll claim a postseason spot as they visit the Thrashers on Friday night. To all the fans of Carolina Hurricanes and Atlanta Thrashers around the world who don't have a chance to visit the stadium...

The Tampa Bay Lightning will host the Florida Panthers on Friday, April 8, 2011 at the St. Pete Times Forum at 7:30 PM ET. The Tampa Bay Lightning seemingly couldn't ask for a better opportunity to reach 100 points for the second time in franchise history and continue their momentum heading into the postseason. Beating the lowly Florida Panthers, however, hasn't been easy for them this season. In their regular-season home finale Friday night, the Lightning will try to end their struggles against...

The Detroit Red Wings will host the Chicago Blackhawks on Friday, April 8, 2011 at the Joe Louis Arena at 7:30 PM ET. The Detroit Red Wings and Chicago Blackhawks know they'll face off twice to finish the regular season. Several more meetings potentially loom in the first round of the playoffs. Then again, the Red Wings may have a chance to keep the reigning Stanley Cup champions out of the postseason altogether. The bitter rivals begin a crucial home-and-home series Friday night in Detroit, with...

The Buffalo Sabres will host the Philadelphia Flyers on Friday, April 8, 2011 at the HSBC Arena at 7:30 PM ET. Finishing atop the Eastern Conference seemed like a mere formality for the Philadelphia Flyers just 10 days ago. After four straight losses, winning the Atlantic Division isn't even a given. The Flyers try to get back on track Friday night in Buffalo, but that won't be easy against a Sabres team that can clinch a playoff berth with a win -- and perhaps set up a first-round matchup with...

The NY Islanders will host the Pittsburgh Penguins on Friday, April 8, 2011 at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum at 7:00 PM ET. If the Pittsburgh Penguins and New York Islanders fought things out on the silver screen instead of a sheet of ice, the sequel would have a roman numeral tacked onto the title a la "Rocky." It's been two months since the Atlantic Division rivals staged one of the most penalty- and fight-filled games they or the NHL has ever seen. Much has changed since that Friday...

The Philadelphia 76ers will travel to Wells Fargo Center to play against Toronto Raptors on Friday, April 8, 2011 at 7:00 PM ET. The Philadelphia 76ers had plenty of trouble defending Andrea Bargnani in two losses to the Toronto Raptors this season, so it's not surprising they won the one time they contained him. The 76ers may have the luxury of not facing Bargnani on Friday night against the visiting Raptors when they continue their pursuit of the No. 6 seed in the Eastern Conference. To all...

The New Jersey Nets will travel to Prudential Center to play against New York Knicks on Friday, April 8, 2011 at 7:00 PM ET. The New York Knicks have won five in a row to move into the No. 6 position in the Eastern Conference, but they'll have to try to extend their streak with Amare Stoudemire watching in street clothes. They've already won once in New Jersey without him. That came two months ago in their only game without Stoudemire, and the Knicks again will be missing their All-Star big man...

The Atlanta Hawks will travel to Conseco Fieldhouse to play against Indiana Pacers on Friday, April 8, 2011 at 7:00 PM ET. The Indiana Pacers have clinched the Eastern Conference's final playoff berth but won't move up from eighth place. The Atlanta Hawks, meanwhile, are likely satisfied to be stuck in their spot in the standings. Having secured the No. 5 seed, the visiting Hawks hope to build momentum for the postseason with a 10th consecutive win over the Pacers on Friday night. To all the fans...

The Pittsburgh Pirates welcoming the Colorado Rockies at the PNC Park on Friday, April 8, 2011 at 7:05 PM ET. The Colorado Rockies couldn't come through with an opening-day win a week ago at Coors Field. They've played practically flawless baseball ever since. A day after spoiling Pittsburgh's home opener, the Rockies hand the ball to Jorge De La Rosa looking to extend their winning streak to five Friday night when they continue a four-game set with the Pirates. To all the fans of Colorado Rockies...

The Houston Astros welcoming the Florida Marlins at the Minute Maid Park on Friday, April 8, 2011 at 7:05 PM ET. The Houston Astros aren't off to a great start, but they're excited to head home with at least one victory. They're hoping for plenty more wins on their extended homestand. Houston looks to build off its first victory of the season Friday night when it plays the Florida Marlins in its home opener. To all the fans of Florida Marlins and Houston Astros around the world who don't have...

The Baltimore Orioles welcoming the Texas Rangers at the Oriole Park at Camden Yards on Friday, April 8, 2011 at 7:05 PM ET. It's only a week into the season, but the Texas Rangers might again have the look of a World Series contender. The Rangers try to match a team record with seven consecutive wins to open a season Friday night against the surprising Baltimore Orioles at Camden Yards. To all the fans of Texas Rangers and Baltimore Orioles around the world who don't have a chance to visit the...

The San Francisco Giants welcoming the St. Louis Cardinals at the AT&T Park on Friday, April 8, 2011 at 4:35 PM ET. Returning home for the first time as the reigning World Series champions might be what the San Francisco Giants need to overcome a slow start. Opening a weekend-long celebration of last year's achievements, the Giants will raise their title flag Friday before facing the St. Louis Cardinals at AT&T Park. To all the fans of St. Louis Cardinals and San Francisco Giants around...

The NY Mets welcoming the Washington Nationals at the Citi Field on Friday, April 8, 2011 at 4:10 PM ET. After struggling in the final two games of their season-opening trip, the New York Mets look forward to a return home. The Mets hope to avoid a third straight loss Friday in their home opener against the Washington Nationals, who played well at Citi Field last season. To all the fans of Washington Nationals and NY Mets around the world who don't have a chance to visit the stadium but don’t...

The Minnesota Twins welcoming the Oakland Athletics at the Target Field on Friday, April 8, 2011 at 4:10 PM ET. The biggest offseason addition for the Minnesota Twins was second baseman Tsuyoshi Nishioka. Unfortunately, the Japanese import won't be available in their first game at Target Field. The injured Nishioka will miss the home opener Friday when the Twins and Oakland Athletics start a three-game series. To all the fans of Oakland Athletics and Minnesota Twins around the world who don't...

The Detroit Tigers welcoming the Kansas City Royals at the Comerica Park on Friday, April 8, 2011 at 3:05 PM ET. Off to their best start in three seasons, the Kansas City Royals are enjoying 2011. They're hoping that success continues away from home. The Royals open the road portion of their schedule Friday when they'll try to ruin the Detroit Tigers' home opener. To all the fans of Kansas City Royals and Detroit Tigers around the world who don't have a chance to visit the stadium but don’t want...

The Boston Red Sox welcoming the NY Yankees at the Fenway Park on Friday, April 8, 2011 at 2:05 PM ET. There are many responses the Boston Red Sox could have to their 0-6 start as their archrivals, the New York Yankees, arrive at Fenway Park for a weekend series. Panic, however, is not one of them. Determined to end their worst start since 1945, the Red Sox hope a change of venue brings a change of momentum in the opener of their three-game set Friday afternoon. To all the fans of NY Yankees and...

The Portland Trailnblazers will travel to EnergySolutions Arena to play against Utah Jazz on Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 10:30 PM ET. The Portland Trail Blazers clinched their third consecutive playoff berth by halftime of their most recent contest, but they were far from pleased with how that game ended. The Blazers will look for a better performance Thursday night on the road as they try to win the season series with the Utah Jazz. To all the fans of Portland Trailnblazers and Utah Jazz around...

The Minnesota Wild will host the Vancouver Canucks on Thursday, April 7, 2011 at the Rogers Arena at 10:00 PM ET. The Vancouver Canucks have little to play for after wrapping up the franchise's first Presidents' Trophy -- and it showed as they were swept in a home-and-home set by the NHL's worst team. Roberto Luongo would like to see some improvement before the playoffs begin. The Canucks play their final home game of the regular season Thursday night against the Minnesota Wild, who have lost their...

The Dallas Stars will host the Colorado Avalanche on Thursday, April 7, 2011 at the American Airlines Center at 8:30 PM ET. Back-to-back victories on the heels of a six-game losing streak have renewed the Dallas Stars' playoff hopes. Consecutive games against the Colorado Avalanche may help them even more. The Stars must continue to take advantage of an easy final-week schedule Thursday night in the opener a home-and-home set with the stumbling Avalanche. To all the fans of Colorado Avalanche...

The Boston Celtics will travel to United Center to play against Chicago Bulls on Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 8:00 PM ET. Joakim Noah has a pretty good idea what to expect on Thursday night. The Chicago Bulls host the Boston Celtics in a game that could have a big impact on the race for the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference, and he anticipates a charged atmosphere at the United Center. To all the fans of Boston Celtics and Chicago Bulls around the world who don't have a chance to visit the stadium...

The Ottawa Senators will host the Montreal Canasiens on Thursday, April 7, 2011 at the Scotiabank Place at 7:00 PM ET. Having secured a fourth consecutive playoff berth, the Montreal Canadiens are hoping to enter the postseason with some momentum. A trip to face the Ottawa Senators could help. While attempting to maintain their position in the Eastern Conference, the Canadiens will try to claim their third straight win at Scotiabank Place on Thursday night. To all the fans of Montreal Canasiens...

The NY Rangers will host the Atlanta Thrashers on Thursday, April 7, 2011 at the Madison Square Garden at 7:00 PM ET. Beginning the week with a thrilling win over one of the Eastern Conference's top teams was a huge boost to the New York Rangers' playoff push. A loss from that game may turn out to be even more significant. Back on the ice for the first time since losing Ryan Callahan indefinitely, the Rangers look to keep control of their playoff fate when they host the Atlanta Thrashers on Thursday...

The Florida Marlins welcoming the Washington Nationals at the Sun Life Stadium on Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 7:10 PM ET. Josh Johnson has never lost to Washington in his career. If his start on opening day is any indication, the Nationals could be in line for another long outing. Looking to continue his mastery of visiting Washington, Johnson takes the mound for the Florida Marlins as they try for a three-game sweep Thursday night. To all the fans of Washington Nationals and Florida Marlins around...

The Baltimore Orioles welcoming the Detroit Tigers at the Oriole Park at Camden Yards on Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 7:05 PM ET. Baltimore's Chris Tillman set a high standard in his first start of the year. After exiting nine outs shy of a no-hitter, Tillman will take the mound Thursday night for the Orioles, who conclude a three-game series against the Detroit Tigers. To all the fans of Detroit Tigers and Baltimore Orioles around the world who don't have a chance to visit the stadium but don’t...

The Philadelphia Phillies welcoming the NY Mets at the Citizens Bank Park on Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 3:05 PM ET. A lack of offense by the Philadelphia Phillies kept Roy Halladay from earning an opening-day win. With the Phillies coming off a big night at the plate, though, and given how well Halladay has pitched against the New York Mets, he may not have to wait long for that first victory. The reigning NL Cy Young Award winner will try for his sixth straight win over the Mets on Thursday in...

The Chicago White Sox welcoming the Tampa Bay Rays at the U.S. Cellular Field on Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 2:10 PM ET. The Tampa Bay Rays keep adding to the worst start in franchise history, but insist they're not overly concerned. Given their recent matchups when facing Edwin Jackson, the Rays might have a difficult time earning their first win of the season and spoiling the Chicago White Sox's home opener Thursday. To all the fans of Tampa Bay Rays and Chicago White Sox around the world who...

The Milwaukee Brewers welcoming the Atlanta Braves at the Miller Park on Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 1:40 PM ET. It took longer than they hoped, but the Milwaukee Brewers are starting to see some positive results. The Brewers look for their third straight victory in the finale of a four-game set against the Atlanta Braves on Thursday at Miller Park. To all the fans of Atlanta Braves and Milwaukee Brewers around the world who don't have a chance to visit the stadium but don’t want to miss the live...

The Pittsburgh Pirates welcoming the Colorado Rockies at the PNC Park on Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 1:35 PM ET. Manager Clint Hurdle has helped the Pittsburgh Pirates win back-to-back series to open a season for the first time in eight years. Hurdle now looks for that success to carry against his former team. After an impressive road trip, the Pirates begin a four-game set against the Colorado Rockies with Thursday's home opener. To all the fans of Colorado Rockies and Pittsburgh Pirates around...

The NY Yankees welcoming the Minnesota Twins at the Yankee Stadium on Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 1:05 PM ET. Minnesota is in position to win two straight over the New York Yankees for the first time in nearly three years. It's been even longer since the Twins accomplished that feat in the Bronx. The Twins hope the Wednesday's rainout won't halt their momentum as they try to win the abbreviated four-game series at Yankee Stadium on Thursday. To all the fans of Minnesota Twins and NY Yankees around...

The Toronto Blue Jays welcoming the Oakland Athletics at the Rogers Centre on Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 12:37 PM ET. Ricky Romero and Trevor Cahill each had an impressive second season in the majors in 2010. While Romero seemed to pick up right where he left off in his 2011 debut, Cahill wasn't quite as sharp. These promising pitchers square off Thursday, with Romero looking to continue his success against the Oakland Athletics while Cahill tries to prevent the Toronto Blue Jays from completing...

The Cincinnati Reds welcoming the Houston Astros at the Great American Ball Park on Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 12:35 PM ET. This year's Cincinnati Reds are drawing comparisons to the franchise's last two World Series-winning teams. The Reds look to open with their sixth straight victory Thursday when they close a three-game set with the winless Houston Astros. To all the fans of Houston Astros and Cincinnati Reds around the world who don't have a chance to visit the stadium but don’t want to miss...

The Cleveland Indians welcoming the Boston Red Sox at the Progressive Field on Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 12:05 PM ET. With the home opener against their archrival looming, the last thing the Boston Red Sox want is to still be in search of their first win this season. Hoping for a better outing from Jon Lester, the Red Sox look to avoid starting 0-6 for the first time since 1945 when they conclude a three-game set with the surging Cleveland Indians on Thursday. To all the fans of Boston Red Sox...

The Colorado Rockies welcoming the LA Dodgers at the Coors Field on Wednesday, April 6, 2011 at 3:10 PM ET. If the Colorado Rockies are to contend for a postseason spot in 2011, they are likely going to need another big year from Troy Tulowitzki. Trying to further overcome a rough start, the star shortstop looks to help the Rockies to a third consecutive victory and a sweep of a two-game set with the Los Angeles Dodgers on Wednesday at Coors Field. To all the fans of LA Dodgers and Colorado Rockies...

The Chicago Cubs welcoming the Arizona Diamondbacks at the Wrigley Field on Wednesday, April 6, 2011 at 2:20 PM ET. With a pair of wins over the Arizona Diamondbacks, the Chicago Cubs' second series has already gone better than their first. They hope to see a similar improvement in Ryan Dempster's second start. Dempster looks to put a rough opening-day outing behind him Wednesday afternoon and lead the Cubs to a three-game home sweep of the Diamondbacks, who send Armando Galarraga to the mound...