Villain? Really? Isn’t that a little harsh for an athlete that simply left a team to further his career and pursue championships? Yes, villain is harsh and unwarranted. LeBron did what hundreds of athletes do every year; leave a team for more money or a better opportunity. LeBron saw what was in store for him in Cleveland – a mediocre team with little opportunity to compete for a title in the near future. LeBron has stated over and over again that he wants to win. Thus, he left the Cavaliers to compete for titles as a member of the Miami Heat. I have absolutely no issue with LeBron leaving. I would leave too. Leaving Cleveland didn’t make LeBron a villain; it made him a professional athlete.

It’s the way LeBron left Cleveland that made him a villain, an ego-centered imbecile, and a heartless diva. Donating $2.5 million to a national charity won’t forgive the shamelessness of LeBron’s self-serving telecast. He might as well have sat there with both middle fingers extended for the full hour. He screwed Cleveland, he screwed the NBA, he screwed his legacy, and he unknowingly screwed himself. The king looked more like court jester on Thursday night.

If it’s true that LeBron knew he was headed to Miami since his season ended, then he truly is a dog. You have some serious vanity issues if you allow five other franchises to court you and tell you how great you are while all along knowing you’d be heading elsewhere. No person with an ounce of humility would concoct such a situation, and only a person with no awareness would allow it to play out to completion.

There’s no defending LeBron on this. I agree he doesn’t owe Cleveland anything, but they certainly don’t owe him anything either. He came to Cleveland a high school kid with no titles. He left Cleveland an NBA superstar with no titles. To recap; in terms of winning, LeBron accomplished nothing. He left a loser.

When he referred to himself in the third person on his hour long telecast (that was as awkward and painful as a colonoscopy), it became painfully clear that this guy is out of control. He’s been babied, spoiled, and gone undisciplined for his entire career. So naturally, when it came to choosing a destination, he chose where he thought he could win titles the easiest. Maybe the great LeBron James isn’t as confident in his abilities as he would like us all to believe.

What LeBron doesn’t understand is that winning titles isn’t easy. It wasn’t easy for Jordan, Bird, Magic, Isiah, Duncan, Kobe, Shaq, or anyone else. Jordan didn’t flee Chicago after struggling to reach the Finals in the early stages of his career, nor did Tim Duncan join forces with Grant Hill in Orlando as age began to creep up on the 2000 San Antonio Spurs. Both managed to capture multiple titles because they overcame. They were true champions. Running to a stacked team doesn’t guarantee championships either. Just ask Karl Malone or Gary Payton.

If it truly was LeBron’s desire to focus on winning and become one of the all time greats, Miami won’t help him. He’ll probably win a few titles, but he’ll undoubtedly hear whispers for the rest of his life about how he needed Wade to capture those titles. His legacy as a player will always have a “needed Dwyane Wade to win title” asterisk beside it, and now his legacy as an individual will always include, “stabbed home city in the back by spurning them for Miami on national TV” – on a telecast HE created nonetheless.

To become legendary, Chicago or New Jersey was the right destination. In either city he would play with young talent and they could all grow into a championship team…HIS team. As Kobe will attest, winning NBA titles as a sidekick doesn’t do much for your “one of the all time greats” resume until you begin adding your own titles on top. So, instead of pursuing his own legacy, LeBron will be riding Wade’s curtails for the foreseeable future. Only time will tell if he ever finds his mojo as the alpha dog on a championship team.

Until then, LeBron James will champion the position of sports greatest villain. And that is no one’s fault but his own.

Has there ever been a more ridiculous circus surrounding one player in the history of sports? Originally, I was entertained by the suspense of where LeBron James would end up. Now I’m appalled at how far these desperate franchises have taken their courting of LeBron. For starters, the guy hasn’t won anything. Not a darn thing. Two MVP awards certainly look nice on his fireplace mantel, but that doesn’t mean anything to the Cavaliers, or to the next generation of fans who may look back on LeBron as one of the most disappointing players in history. After all, MVP trophies aren’t hung from the rafters.

This situation exemplifies everything wrong with sports today. LeBron shouldn’t have ESPN at his disposal to schedule his own destination X press conference. While he’s a freakish athlete and a superior individual talent, LeBron hasn’t steamrolled through the NBA as expected. In fact, his only accomplishment as a member of an NBA team is an Eastern Conference title won when the conference was at its absolute weakest. On the court, he’s Donovan McNabb minus three conference titles. Off the court, he’s more obsessed with his brand and image than winning basketball games. Why couldn’t he approach this process the same way any other free agent would; fly to meet with potential suitors, make a decision, appear at a introductory press conference a day or two later? Is he above it all, or is standard operating procedure too mundane for “King James”?

What an unfitting name. I always laugh when I hear it. I laughed harder when LeBron’s first tweet from his new Twitter account referred to himself as “the King.” To this point of his career, he hasn’t performed like a king…or at least a very good one.

From a historical standpoint, great kings were courageous warriors who conquered adversaries. No-showing games 5 and 6 of the Boston series in the 2010 Eastern Conference Semifinals wasn’t exactly warrior-like. Staring blankly at teammates and moping around the court as a veteran team kicked his tail didn’t qualify as courageous either. The list of those he’s conquered? Um, it’s empty. No, LeBron is not a king.

In fact, “King James” reminds me more of Commadus from Gladiator. Like Commadus, LeBron is a little immature and needs attention. He needs to believe the whole world will be waiting on Thursday night as he proclaims where the next chapter of his career will begin. (His camp says the decision is being made live on ESPN because of “unprecedented attention.” Translation: “I’m a big deal. I want everyone to watch me decide.” Whatever.) Unfortunately, one team will hand over their franchise to him and he’ll undoubtedly hold the team, front office, and its fans hostage for the next decade. Has any player, in any sport ever been given so much after accomplishing so little? LeBron obviously didn’t attend college (where upper classman would have reigned in his ego), wasn’t disciplined by coaches in high school, and was never told, “This is the way things are going to be. Deal with it.” Winning happens between the lines, in sweaty gyms, and when the cameras aren’t rolling. Staging a spectacle to announce his destination only proves that LeBron is more in love with being a global icon than earning a legacy that comes with being an NBA champion.

If I’m a GM with money available, I’m throwing everything at Dwyane Wade, not LeBron. Wade has proven he has the competitive fire that Kobe has and Jordan patented. Wade single handedly brought his city a title by attacking the rim with reckless abandon for four straight games even as all five opponents geared to stop him. Sure, he may struggle with injuries over the course of his career, but you can’t teach what Wade has. He isn’t looking to become the next international idol or to be a billionaire businessman. Wade is sick of losing. He wants to win and he knows what it takes to do so. LeBron clearly doesn’t understand winning on that level, nor does he care as much. If he did, he would drop the global brand crap and concentrate on basketball.

Don’t get me wrong, LeBron is one of the best players in the league. Although, I hope for the sake of those young kids who will undoubtedly watch on Thursday night that LeBron never sniffs an NBA title. He’s been given too much by a league that he has yet to champion. He’s been handed endorsements about winning when he really can only endorse charisma and physical superiority. The man isn’t a winner, and yet NBA front offices are creating cartoon sitcoms and international branding campaigns for this guy? Somewhere along the way we as sports fans have lost our edge. Never before have we embraced someone with such unabashed adoration who hasn’t won.

My favorite part about this whole scenario is that 15 years from now history will show that LeBron never lived up to the hype. He never actually earned the adulation that was blindly given to him. LeBron only has 5-7 prime basketball years left. It doesn’t appear that he’ll team with Wade or Bosh, so there are no guarantees that he’ll win even one title. On top of that, there are veteran teams like the Lakers and Celtics still hanging around as well as young up-and-coming teams that will challenge for titles.

One of those up-and-coming teams is led by Kevin Durant, a pure scorer and more capable leader. While LeBron has been prancing around fancy hotels being courted by billionaires, Durant quietly signed a multi-year extension while sitting on the bench supporting the Thunder’s summer league team. Does Durant have to be at summer league? Not at all, but he’s there because he understands winning requires more than just his own efforts. Winning requires a team, a culture, an idea that revolves around a leader more similar to Maximus than Commadus. Maximus shied from glory and conquered with strength and will. Commadus always wanted more, wanted to be the center of everyone’s attention even though he’d never done a single thing to earn it. LeBron falls in line with one of these characters. Unfortunately for whoever signs LeBron, they’ll learn he’s more similar to the one that accomplished nothing, asked for more, and ultimately cared only about his status.

LeBron’s a public figure, a business mogul wannabe. He’s not an NBA legend. He’s not even an NBA champion.

July 1, 2010 marks the beginning of the biggest free agent bonanza the NBA (or any professional league for that matter) has ever seen. I’m a Sixers fan, so regardless of who goes where, my team will still suck. Nevertheless, I can’t wait for the final destinations to be determined.

Let’s be real though, this free agent period is all about two players; Dwayne Wade and LeBron James. Yes, Chris Bosh, Amare Stoudemire, Joe Johnson, Paul Pierce, and Dirk Nowitzki are all impact players, but Bosh will follow either D-Wade or LeBron (most likely LeBron), Pierce and Dirk are beyond their primes, and Amare and Joe Johnson are amazing NBA talents with no defensive genes. So really, Wade and James are the big rocks thrown in the jar first and everyone else is one of the smaller rocks dropped around them.

From where we stand right now (36 hours until 7/1), the Bulls and Heat are the frontrunners to land the most prized talent in this free agent pool. The most prevalent rumor is that all three max contract players – Wade, LeBron, Bosh – will be joining forces in Miami. The common response is “game over,” as in, “no one else will sniff an NBA title for the next five to eight years.”

If all three unite in Miami they will undoubtedly become the most talented team in the league. Having two of the top five players in the league would also make them extremely difficult to eliminate in a seven game series come playoff time. The only real detriment here is the depth. Many have already noted that the Heat would have a tough time rounding out their roster with anything more than NBA journeyman or undrafted rookies. Others have argued that solid NBA role players will gladly take pay reductions to play with LeBron and Wade. I tend to agree with the latter for two reasons. First, who wouldn’t want to join that team? Neither player is a notorious jerk or lousy teammate, Miami is a nice place, and there’s no personal income tax (so I hear). Secondly, a perceived lack of depth wouldn’t matter too much. Bosh, LeBron and Wade are all in their physical primes. They can put up big minutes all season long; although I highly doubt that will be the case. With as bad as the Eastern Conference is, claiming home court throughout the playoffs won’t be too difficult.

With that said, there is one issue. As great a team as Bosh, James, and Wade would make, how long could they sustain that greatest? I would argue not long. Sure, they’ll probably win a title, maybe even two, but superstars don’t normally last together. Both Wade and LeBron want to be the go-to-guy. As ESPN’s Bill Simmons argues, there can only be one alpha dog on any basketball team. Who will claim that role for the Heat? Will it be Wade because he’s been in Miami his entire career? Or will it be James because he’s the “Chosen One”? What happens if Wade thinks it’s his team and LeBron tries to pry it away or vice versa? Those who argue against these possibilities because the two played together harmoniously in the 2008 Summer Olympics are ignorant. Both players were there for one common goal and more importantly, for a definite length of time. Coming off the bench for a month to help his team win a gold medal was an easy decision for Wade. Deferring to another superstar for 9 months a year for the next half decade is a completely different story. Thus, I’m not convinced they can make it beyond a title or two. After one title egos will start to grow, the desire to be great subsides and selfishness kicks in. Selfishness leads to disruption and disruption leads to confrontation about team leadership and before you know it, you’re the 2004 Los Angeles Lakers.

So where do I want LeBron and Wade to end up? So glad you asked. Here are the top 3 scenarios of how I would like to see the 2010 free agent market – as it pertains to LeBron and Wade – play out (in reverse order):

Scenario 3
LeBron James goes to New York and makes basketball in the Big Apple relevant again for the first time since Patrick Ewing’s flat top. I’m not a Knicks fan. In fact, I hate them, but sports are always more exciting when there’s a big market team that we all love to root against. I can’t root against the Knicks right now. Doing so would be like hoping a second grader gets beat up at recess. If LeBron goes to New York and brings one of the other elite free agents with him, the Knicks immediately become contenders in the Eastern Conference and I can once again root against New York with all the disdain I once held for Ewing and John Starks. As a Sixers fan, what more could one ask? (Well, in addition to my team making some sort of progress after a half decade of stagnancy/regression.)

All three (Bosh, LeBron, Wade) ending up in Miami could also qualify here. It wouldn’t necessarily make the Eastern Conference very competitive, but it would be fascinating to see how LeBron and Wade progress or digress together over the years.

Scenario 2
LeBron James goes to Chicago along with elite free agent forward X and Chris Bosh and “pretty stinkin’ good” free agent X join Dwyane Wade in Miami. As previously mentioned, it’s likely that Bosh will follow LeBron. However, Bosh is the best power forward available and the Heat need front court talent. For my own enjoyment, I want Bosh with Wade in Miami. I love this scenario because LeBron joins a very young team in Chicago with an already talented nucleus and the free agent additions in Miami would hopefully provide Wade with an equally talented group. This would make the Eastern Conference Finals one of the most exciting series in all of sports for the next handful of years. Raise your hand if you wouldn’t want to see LeBron James and Dwyane Wade go head to head in a seven game series once a year for the right to advance to the NBA Finals. Anyone? Anyone? I didn’t think so. (I also secretly love this scenario because I personally think Wade is the better player and I’d get a kick out of seeing him outduel LeBron in a seven game series on an annual basis. By the way, I just added “LeBron” and “Dwyane” to my Microsoft Word dictionary. THAT’S how big of a deal they are.)

Scenario 1
This is by far my favorite scenario and unfortunately, also the most unrealistic. Ok, it’s virtually impossible. Imagine this: LeBron, Bosh, and Wade all have a gentlemen’s agreement to take less money and join forces in Miami. However, right before it all becomes official, LeBron begins to have doubts about sharing the spotlight with Wade and secretly considers going to Chicago. Wade finds out and makes a preemptive strike and signs with the Bulls. (Very, very, very unlikely because Wade publicly insulted the Bulls front office, but allow me to continue.) LeBron is obviously furious and signs with the next best thing; a young and talented nucleus in New Jersey. Because neither the Bulls nor the Nets can sign two max contract players, Bosh is left out in the cold and signs with team X (back to obscurity, Mr. Bosh). Wade returns to his hometown of Chicago. LeBron ultimately ends up in Brooklyn. The NBA has two of its most marketable players in two of its biggest markets. Even better, LeBron finally starts taking the game more seriously simply to beat Wade, and Wade is always locked in knowing LeBron is gunning for him. (How motivated would LeBron be? Imagine him going toe to toe with Delonte West – who allegedly slept with LeBron’s mom – for a seven game series every year, only Wade doesn’t suck and doesn’t have West’s creepy facial hair.) What’s more (and this is my favorite part), the NBA has two super-duper stars that no longer like each other. No more friendly handshakes before big games. No more kissy face quotes about one another to the media. No sir. I’m all for peace and friendship but I think we need a little animosity in the NBA. Due to their feud, the Nets and Bulls evolve as the most heated rivalry in the league, and LeBron and Wade fuel the fires. Every spring we’re treated to an Eastern Conference Final between two amazing players that don’t get along. Dual triple doubles, insults through the media, and legendary performances as LeBron and Wade go title for title over the next half decade? Yes please! Will it happen? No, but tell me that wouldn’t be the most amazing outcome of NBA Free Agent Bonanza 2010? You can’t.

The Flyers approached game 5 poorly and incorrectly. After losing two straight and returning home, we all knew the Blackhawks would come out like bats out of hell. The Flyers game plan was to lay low and withstand Chicago’s barrage. They accomplished the former and failed miserably at the latter. Anytime you employ a passive approach in the playoffs you’re going to lose. Yes, had the Flyers been able to withstand Chicago’s attack and gotten through the first 13-16 minutes unscathed, they would have taken the momentum. But that’s a big risk and one not worth taking in game 5 of the Stanley Cup Finals. Philadelphia should’ve pressured the Blackhawks from the start. Had the Flyers struck first, the pressure on Chicago would have increased substantially (already lost two straight, losing early in front of home crowd). Instead, the Flyers gave them a free pass to do as they pleased in the game’s first 15 minutes. A 2-0 Chicago lead ensued and the shell-shocked Flyers allowed that lead to swell to 3-0 heading into the first intermission. The passive approached failed. Watch Chicago tonight, I doubt they’ll make the same mistake and allow the Flyers to dictate the tempo. Instead, they’ll attack with the same tenacity they started with in game 5 and put the pressure on the Flyers to survive.

Their approach wasn’t the only issue the Flyers experienced in game 5. Their lack of physicality was also appalling. Somewhere, Bobby Clarke was throwing his dentures at the wall. Chicago took it to the Flyers all game long, relentlessly pounding on the lifeless Flyers. At no point in the game did I feel that the Flyers, or any single player, stood up to the Blackhawks. Technically, the Flyers never gave up, but their play and lack of gusto indicated they knew winning wasn’t an option. I’m fine with the Flyers losing game 5. Losing happens, but for the love of all that is sacred in Philadelphia Hockey, please hit someone while you’re losing.

Speaking of a lack of physicality, I would like to welcome back Simon Gagne. I’m not sure who was masquerading as Gagne in the Boston and Montreal series’, but the real Simon Gagne has returned. Other than an easy goal in garbage time (a result of a great play by Claude Giroux nonetheless), Gagne has been invisible this series. He’s avoided contact, has had little impact offensively, and put up a -5 in the plus/minus ratio. Don’t worry though, Gagne’s not alone. Jeff Carter (-5) and Mike Richards have also no-showed in the Stanley Cup Finals. Carter can’t score unless the goalie’s on the bench and Richards has struggled immensely – not exactly what you’re looking for from your captain. However, I will take complete blame for Mike Richards’ play. I got so carried away with his 2010 playoff performance that I mentioned him in the same sentence as Steve Yzerman and Joe Sakic. Whoops. Based on his play in the Stanley Cup Finals, that would be equivalent to comparing Colin Farrell and Morgan Freeman. So, I’m sorry Mike. I didn’t mean to put the kibosh on your great playoff run. While you’ve tremendously sucked, you’ve at least continued to hustle. Unfortunately, when you’re the captain of a Stanley Cup contender, trying just isn’t enough. Production is necessary. One goal, one assist, and a plus/minus of -6 isn’t hacking it.

There is good news though…

The extra day of rest between games 5 and 6 obviously benefits both teams, but it’s a greater advantage to the Flyers. After a whipping like the one they experienced in game 5, an extended rest is key to forgetting and moving on. That extra day allows Philadelphia more time to digest where they failed (almost everywhere) and regain their focus. More importantly, it also slows the momentum Chicago generated with their game 5 victory. The extra day won’t win game 6 but it certainly doesn’t hurt the Flyers’ chances.

The extra day will be especially nice for Chris Pronger. I’m not talking about recovery though because we know Pronger doesn’t need rest like normal humans. No, the extra day gives Pronger more time to stew. Pronger is angry. His performance in game 5 was as bad as I’ve ever seen him play. He knows this. Pronger isn’t as mean as he was when paired with slap shot extraordinaire, Al MacInnis on the St. Louis Blues in the ‘90s, but I expect him to rekindle some of that aggression and bludgeon people in game 6. If you’ve seen any of his appearances since game 5’s disaster, it’s obvious he’s locked in. Pronger’s endurance and consistency have made him a hockey legend; there’s no way he bombs again in game 6. It’s also worth noting that some dope at the Chicago Tribune thought it’d be a good idea to put Pronger’s upper body on top of a female figure skater’s legs with the title “Chrissy Pronger.” (See it here. You stay classy, Chi-town.) While Pronger won’t publicly discuss the picture, you can bet he’s seen it. Pronger’s awful game 5, playoff experience, mean streak, and the picture in the Tribune have all been simmering for that extra day. In just a few hours Pronger will unleash that stew of rage on the Blackhawks. I can’t wait.

The extra day is nice and Chris Pronger’s play will certainly be inspiring, but the most comforting part about the Flyers’ situation is this: Been there, done that. Wednesday’s game 6 will be the fifth time in the 2010 Stanley Cup Playoffs that the Flyers will compete in an elimination game. Thus far, they’re 4-0. The Flyers recognize the pressure, understand the moment, and know how to succeed. If there’s one thing you can say about this group it’s that they’ll never stop competing. Even in game 5 they continued to compete. (I still don’t think they thought they could win, but they competed nonetheless.) You really can’t ask for more from the team you support. To recap; elimination game experience, a relentless attitude, at home? Yes, I like the Flyers chances to return to Chicago.

1. The Flyers are in desperate need of a LeBron James, Manu Ginobili, or Dwayne Wade type player – someone who can finish around the net. The Flyers dominated the last 30 minutes of game 2 and have nothing to show for it. The opportunities were there, they just couldn’t convert. There are times when the opposing goalie is to blame for such misfortune. This was not one of those times. Sure, Antti Niemi was very good on Monday night, but he wasn’t exactly standing on his head to stop pucks. The Flyers were simply struggling to score. Bouncing pucks, poor angles, shot location; whatever it was, it haunted the orange and black all night. Simon Gagne’s wrister from 12 feet with under a minute remaining was a perfect example of the Flyers making Niemi’s job easy (great scoring chance, poor shot, easy save). The offense is getting their chances. They’re simply not converting.
2. Someone please stop Marian Hossa.  Seriously, please? While he tends to disappear in the finals, Hossa’s clearly locked in this year. (By the way, how bad is it when someone praises you for FINALLY playing well in the Stanley Cup Finals after sucking in the previous TWO? Not exactly a ringing endorsement for consistency. It’d be like throwing BP a party when/if ever they FINALLY control the oil leak. Now back to business…) When Hossa’s on his game he’s an offensive wizard. Leaving him alone in space and allowing him to facilitate will only bite you in the rear. Hopefully a goal, two assists, and a plethora of scoring chances in the first two games of the series have the Flyers prepared for his wizardry in game 3.
3. The Flyers went into game 2 intent on establishing themselves as the more physical team. They accomplished as much for most of the first period. However, as the game progressed it was the Blackhawks doling out the hits. This is bad. It’s one thing for the Blackhawks to be the faster, quicker team, but to allow them to win the physical battle is unacceptable. Philadelphia coach, Peter Laviolette inserted tough guy Danny Carcillo into the lineup for game 2 to add a physical presence and set a tone that would favor the Flyers. Carcillo hit everything that moved (and didn’t move-he landed a few hits on the boards), including teammate Jeff Carter. Unfortunately, the Flyers’ physical play tailed off as the game continued and Chicago’s physical play increased. Allowing Chicago to set the physical tone will never benefit the Flyers. Philadelphia must, must, must use their size and physicality to control the game, especially on the defensive end. It will take 60 minutes of physical hockey for the Flyers to climb back into this series, not 20.
4. Laviolette has brilliantly pulled all the right strings this postseason, but he may have finally outsmarted himself. Granted, I liked adding Carcillo’s energy to the lineup for game 2 but throwing him on the top line for the first period was a head scratcher. Early on Carcillo was too focused on killing someone than playing hockey. As he settled down, he struggled offensively. If you don’t believe me, total up his ice time in the 3^rd period. If it’s more than two minutes, I’ll send you your favorite candy bar. Carcillo is a lightning rod that will add a spark, but he won’t win the Flyers the Stanley Cup. He’s “Portman” from the Mighty Ducks; big, mean, and fearless. Unfortunately, those are his best attributes. When the Flyers started controlling the game and creating consistent scoring chances, Gagne was back with Richards and Carter. Carcillo was on the pine. Keep it simple, Mr. Laviolette. Just keep it simple.
5. The Blackhawks top line of Jonathan Toews, Patrick Kane, and Dustin Byfuidffbjfdbdfshglien has yet to impact the series. Combined, they’ve totaled one measly point. As pleased as the Flyers should be with their effectiveness in shutting down Chicago’s top line, it must also be discouraging to see that their efforts have had no affect on the series scoreboard. Regardless, Philadelphia must continue to control the speed of Toews and Kane, and prevent Byfuglien from setting up shop in front of the net – something Chris Pronger has had success with thus far.
6. Speaking of Chris Pronger: He’s a real treat. Pronger took a beating today from Yahoo! Sports columnist Greg Wyshynski for being “childish” and “unsportsmanlike.” All reasonably fair shots. However, this is the Stanley Cup Finals and Pronger has long been one of the most hated players in the NHL, so I’m pretty sure he doesn’t care. If taking the puck after each game so that the Blackhawks can’t treasure it is something he feels needs to be done, then so be it. I trust that Pronger knows exactly what he’s doing. Every one of his moves is calculated. Every move has a purpose. Even if it’s just to antagonize an opponent or draw the attention away from his young team.
7. Finally, I think it’s time for a fight. Can we please see a fight? The Flyers should set the tone early with a nice brawl Rocky V style. Not only will it energize the team but it will send the 20,000 fans inside the Wachovia Center into frenzy. There’s nothing Philadelphia fans love more than a fight. Take Craig Berube out of his suit and tie and put him out on the ice if need be. I know he won’t hesitate to go toe to toe with anyone. The Flyers need a kick in the pants. A fight early in game 3 will do the trick. (Also, I was disappointed by the way the referees handled game two. The game began with a high level of feistiness. After a chaotic game one, the two teams appeared to have settled in, both in play and their disdain for each other. Hockey is at its best when two teams don’t like one another. I felt the referees got a little too involved in limiting the extracurricular activities after the whistle. I for one like that stuff. All year hockey is full of fights and post whistle facial massages. Now the playoffs are here and the referees want it to disappear? This is who you are, NHL. Embrace it. Don’t run from it.)

There we are. Seven things the Flyers can do to make sure they go to sleep on Wednesday with renewed life in the Stanley Cup Finals. If they fail and fall beyond 0-3, we’ll be praying for another miracle. And lightning never strikes twice.

The playoffs are where dollars are earned, careers are altered, and legends are born. He’s only 25, but Mike Richards’ 2010 postseason performance has sent him down a career-altering path – one that may even make him a legend.

Let’s not kid ourselves. Richards doesn’t have the explosiveness of Alexander Ovechkin or the offensive brilliance of Sydney Crosby. At 5’11 and 195 lbs., he’s not an overwhelming physical presence either. Richards’ greatest attributes are his grit and the balance of his game – he can score, he can facilitate, and he’s as good a defensive center as there is in the NHL. While he’ll never lead the league in goals or points, he will make your offense, defense, and ultimately, your team, better.

If you were to read the previous paragraph in February or March, you would’ve either laughed or assumed I was on drugs. The Flyers were reeling at the time, and Richards was finishing up his worst full season as a Flyer. His assists were down, his plus/minus was negative, and his leadership was in question. The questions were well deserved too.

Since becoming captain, Richards’ Flyers have underachieved. In 2009 they were bounced in the first round of the playoffs to the Pittsburgh Penguins. This season, the Flyers were a roller coaster; hot at times and brutally awful at others, especially late in the season. Injuries were a major reason for their inconsistent play, but weathering the long NHL season is a key role of being a captain. The Flyers looked dogged and Richards’ reign as Flyers captain was in serious jeopardy. That was then.

This is now. As I mentioned a couple of weeks ago, the playoffs have been Mike Richards’ coming out party. Not as a hockey player though, as a captain. We’ve all known how talented a hockey player he is. The Flyers organization knew as much when they signed him to a 12 year contract two years ago. However, it wasn’t until the past few weeks that we’ve finally gotten to see what Mike Richards looks like as a captain…and the view is encouraging.

Night in and night out of the 2010 playoffs he’s been the Flyers most consistent player. He rallied the team from 0-3 to defeat Boston and was the most outstanding player in the Eastern Conference Finals (no official award, just my opinion). When the Flyers clinched the series in Game 5, there were three signature moments that epitomized just how far Philadelphia’s young captain had come.

The first was the shorthanded goal to combat the Canadiens onslaught early in the first period. Richards dashed to the puck from his own blue line in an effort to beat Montreal goalie, Jaroslav Havlak. Richards dove to play the puck, collided with Havlak, and then jumped to his feet to put the puck in the net. Two things: First, as previously mentioned, the Flyers were shorthanded. Many players would have accepted the clear and either ended their shift or sat back for the next attack. Richards saw an opportunity and went for it. There’s a reason he’s regarded as the best penalty killer in the league. Second, it was a huge, huge goal. The Canadiens were flying at that point. They were already up 1-0 and threatening on the power play. Richards’ hustle and subsequent goal deflated Montreal. In fact, they didn’t find any kind of rhythm again until late in the 3^rd period. Richards’ gritty goal swung the momentum in dramatic fashion.

Before continuing, let’s take a look at where Richards’ career could be heading. His crisp pass from behind the Canadiens’ goal to Jeff Carter for a 3-1 advantage in the second period provided a nice window into the future. It was a spectacular play by Richards on many levels – positioning, awareness, puck control, passing – it was all there. This is what I love about him. His ceiling is extremely high. We could easily have the next Steve Yzerman/Joe Sakic –esque player on our hands. Yes, both are NHL legends, but Richards has the potential and especially the heart to reach that level. We didn’t know this two months ago. If he can sustain his will and effort, the next decade of Philadelphia hockey should be fun. Even if he doesn’t reach the level of Yzerman and Sakic, he’s already a Michael Peca type player. Peca was a gritty captain for the Buffalo Sabres in the late ‘90’s. He guided Buffalo to a Stanley Cup appearance and was the league’s best defensive center and penalty killer (sound familiar?) as well as an amazing leader. So either way, Richards is heading down a nice path. But I digress.

The second moment was the empty net goal to clinch the series. I know right? An empty net goal? Really? Really. I remember watching the puck bounce to the boards as I thought to myself, “Do it, Mike. Go for it.” (Because you know, we’re on a first name basis.) Richards went for the puck and completely outworked Roman Hamrlik for a good 10 seconds before somehow getting the puck over to Carter who flushed it home. It was one of those moments where one player simply wanted it more. Richards shoved, clawed, and scrapped his way to the puck and wouldn’t stop until he got his result. It was only an empty net goal, but thanks to Richards’ efforts and the prize of going to the finals, 20,000+ fans cheered euphorically as if the goal had just delivered the Stanley Cup itself. Captains must first lead on the ice to have a voice in the locker room. Out-willing the Canadiens on that play was a clear example of Richards’ desire to win. It was more than just an empty net goal. It was a statement. Don’t think his teammates didn’t take notice.

And finally, the trophy presentation. A subtle yet obvious demonstration of how far Richards has come as a captain. In the NHL, any touching/grabbing/celebrating of the conference championship hardware is taboo. The captains of winning teams normally smile for a nice picture and skate away. It’s their way of saying, “this isn’t what we’ve come for.” Last year, Sydney Crosby broke tradition and touched the Prince of Whales Trophy that is given to the Eastern Conference Champion each year. On Monday night, Richards boldly and without hesitation, grabbed the trophy, smiled for a photo, and hoisted the trophy above his head. It was a clear display of Richards’ confidence. I know the tradition, but I know we decide who brings home the Cup, not superstitions. This doesn’t matter. Can I prove this is what was going through his head? Absolutely not. However, watch the clip of the presentation again. Richards has a smirk on his face the whole time. That confident glow is special.

Six months ago Richards was feuding with the local media about his leadership capabilities. Now he’s leading the Flyers into the Stanley Cup Finals. After Richards raised the Whales Trophy over his head, the Flyers’ captain promptly skated off the ice toward the Philadelphia locker room. His teammates followed, hoping their captain will bring them another piece of hardware, one where their names will be inscribed for eternity.

The Magic need a backbone. When the toughest, grittiest, most competitive players on your squad are Matt Barnes and JJ Redick, you’re going to struggle in tightly contested playoff contests. I’m not sure who’s responsible for building a championship contender around key players without that intangible fire, but he/she should take a loooonngg look at previous NBA champions.

2009: Los Angeles Lakers – Kobe Bryant is the league’s fiercest competitor.
2008: Boston Celtics – Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, and Ray Allen all were proven competitors and elevated their games at different times throughout the playoffs to bring home the title.
2007: San Antonio Spurs – Tim Duncan epitomizes a competitor. Manu Ginobili is a cold-blooded assassin that thrives in the 4^th quarter of tight games.

The list goes on and on. Without that burning desire to win, the Magic look lost. Not quite as lost as the moron on The Bachelorette who thought it’d be a good idea to share that his nickname, “Shooter” was the result of premature reaction to a sexual encounter, but they’re pretty close. The point is, the Magic lack that competitive edge-both as individuals and as a team. While Redick and Barnes bring that competitiveness, it just isn’t enough if it’s not coming from one of your team’s premier players.

To be blunt; it has to be Dwight Howard. Unfortunately, he has yet to demonstrate that competitive grit and toughness. Yes, he gets mugged and abused more than any other player, but he also whines more than almost any other player too. I’m not talking about physical toughness though, that’s easy. Mental fortitude is what makes a champion. Howard needs to accept his fate as the paint’s punching bag and simply overpower and outhustle his opponents. He’s big enough, strong enough, and absolutely athletic enough to do so.

Take the 3^rd quarter from Monday night’s game as an example. Garnett pushed Howard after a basket and looked to get in Howard’s face. Howard backed off, started clapping and coolly watched as Garnett received a technical. It was a savvy move by Howard not to retaliate, but he needs to establish himself there and send a message. Get in Garnett’s mug. Tell him his time has come and gone. If the TD Garden court were an African jungle, Garnett would have essentially been peeing all over Howard’s paint… and Howard allowed it to happen. Unacceptable. Howard should own that area of the court. No exceptions. If he wants to become a great player, he needs to change his mind set. Putting Garnett on his rear and getting in his face to remind about it would be a great start.

I really like Matt Barnes and …(big breath)… JJ Redick. In fact, they’re my favorite players on the Magic. Barnes is a little bit of a loose cannon who can get out of control on the offensive end, but he competes. Jeff Van Gundy said it best when he offered that Barnes is the only player on Orlando’s roster that he trusts as a true competitor. To fight their way back into this series, Orlando needs Barnes to continue to frustrate Boston with his length and feistiness while also setting the competitive tone for his team.

As for Redick, who knew a Duke alumni would develop into such a hard-nosed player? Of all ten players on the court, Redick fights the hardest to get through screens, lays out for more loose balls, and makes the most of his normally limited minutes. He’s not the greatest defender but he tries, and he will hit some huge threes as he did on Monday evening. On two specific occasions Boston rallied to either tie or move within one point. Redick responded with a three both times and deflated Boston’s run. Because he’s phenomenal from the charity stripe, Redick will be on the floor in crunch time too. This is a good thing. If you need a loose ball, maximum effort on defense, and a dead-eye shooter, Redick is your man.

I’m about to jump off the Celtics Bandwagon. After game two of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against Cleveland, I hitched my wagon to Boston’s. I loved their intensity. You can say a lot of negative things about the Celtics, but no one matches their collective will to win. However, I’ve had all I can handle of Kendrick Perkins’, “I should be getting Hakeem Olajuwon treatment from the officials” routine, Rajon Rondo’s inability to hit any shot outside of three feet, and Kevin Garnett’s “soccer flop” in the 4^th quarter of game four.

Seriously though, is there anyone in the entire universe other Kendrick Perkins’ mom that really believes he’s any good? Perkins struts around the court like he’s the re-incarnation of Bill Russell. It kills me. I want nothing more than for Dwight Howard to thoroughly abuse him for 48 minutes.

I know Rondo has been a stud this postseason. I won’t deny that or his rise into the league’s top five point guards. However, it’s a struggle to truly appreciate his talents when the defense dares him to knock down 12 footers. In game four Orlando was finally able to clog the lane and limit Rondo’s effectiveness. If Rondo can’t knock down some of those open looks, he will continue to struggle as he did on Monday night. I like his style and enjoy watching him play, but it’s tough to see a guard shoot that poorly.

As annoying and theatrical as Garnett is, I never would have expected him to embellish an unintentional elbow, especially during the playoffs. Flailing isn’t normally part of Garnett’s repertoire. This was just one of the reasons I thought game four was peculiar. Despite having a 3-0 lead in the series, the Celtics played like the team under pressure. They looked tight and out of sync. Garnett especially looked flustered by the physical contact on numerous occasions. I know it’s not his style to back down, but he appeared more concerned with starting a melee than closing out the series

The Magic still have a long way to go to make this a real series. Obviously, winning game four was a step in the right direction. Dragging themselves off the mat and delivering a blow to Boston has earned Orlando some much needed momentum. To maintain that momentum they’ll need toughness, leadership, and a competitive edge. In other words, it’s time for Dwight Howard to start doing some hypothetical peeing of his own.

The NBA Conference Finals are usually a good time. Two expected heavyweights and two surprises in the NBA’s final four should continue that trend. Even better, without the Cleveland LeBronaliers, we’ll be treated to four complete teams that don’t run a “stand around and watch that guy” offense. Ok, maybe 3 ½ depending on how Kobe is feeling. Let’s take a look…

Eastern Conference (4) Boston Celtics vs. (2) Orlando Magic

Favorite Player: Jameer Nelson. He’s a Philly boy and I still haven’t gotten over how amazing he was for St. Josephs in 2004. More importantly, it’s been nice to see him redeem himself for his disastrous performance in last year’s NBA Finals. Nelson was hurt and shouldn’t have played anyway, but when he did he was hard to watch. He won’t be the best point guard in the series, but unlike his counterpart, Nelson can hit an open jump shot.

Rooting For: I honestly haven’t decided yet. Heading into the Eastern Conference playoffs I was rooting for Dwayne Wade as long as he was around (only 5 games) and then I expected to swing my allegiance to the Magic. However, the second game of the Boston/Cleveland series changed my plan. In the second half of that game I tweeted: “On the verge of jumping on Celtics’ bandwagon for this series. Cavs are whiners, Ray Allen & Rondo are nasty, and KG’s faces are priceless.” At this point I’m 50/50 and could easily root for either team. It will probably come down to one team or one player doing something I don’t like and pushing my support the other way. Until then, I’m rooting for Tiger Woods to show up to a game in Orlando and Glen “Big Baby” Davis trampling him like he did that kid in last year’s conference semi. (Relive it here.)

What/who will be the Difference: Orlando is much deeper than Boston, and Boston can’t really match up with Dwight Howard (who can?). Although, if they can get Howard in foul trouble (somewhat easy to do) that will certainly limit the advantage he provides. Additionally, the Celtics will need another monster series from Rajon Rondo and will need much, much more from Paul Pierce than they got in the semis against Cleveland. Another important note is that the Magic hasn’t lost in the 2010 playoffs yet. I believe this has more to do with their opponents, but either way, it will be interesting to see how they respond when they are really tested for the first time in the playoffs. Regardless, it’s Orlando’s series to lose. I’m just thankful that Anderson Varejo doesn’t have to miss anymore runners and Mo Williams doesn’t have to go M.I.A. in the second half anymore.

Notables: The ESPN crew of Mark Jackson, Jeff Van Gundy, and Mike Breen are terrific. You may argue they’re annoying, but I love them. As a group, they’re highly entertaining, exciting, and brutally honest. *The point guard matchup will be fun too. As I mentioned, I love Jameer Nelson, but Rajon Rondo is a real treat to watch. His quickness is virtually un-guardable and his game IQ translates to success. However, I still laugh when the defense gives Rondo open 15 footers knowing he won’t take them because he’s a subpar shooter. If Rondo ever gets a consistent jump shot, look out. *The battle at center will also be a close one…although not in a basketball sense. Both Dwight Howard of the Magic and Kendrick Perkins of the Celtics are two of the biggest whiners you’ll find in the NBA. Thankfully, there’ll be a box of tissues courtside just in case either player loses control. *And finally, Kevin Garnett’s faces. Many people hate them and think he’s obnoxious. Garnett is obnoxious, but I love his “I’m clinically insane” faces and the intensity he brings to the game. Trash talking, gusto, leadership; Garnett brings it all. What’s not to like?

Prediction: Magic in 6. Why? I don’t know.

Western Conference (3) Phoenix Suns vs. (1) Los Angeles Lakers

Favorite Player: Adam Morrison. Morrison is the most underrated player in the league. He’s the purest shooter, grittiest defender, and has the heart of a champion. If I were to pick one pla… just kidding. That was fun though, no? I really don’t have a favorite player in this series. If I had to choose, I would go with Nash because of his toughness. He’s also a phenomenal (and underrated) shooter, great leader, and an amazing point guard. I would probably like him more if he didn’t send the Spurs home.  By the way, if Nash offered to shake my hand as he exited the court after a game, I would respectfully decline. How many times does he have his hands on the ball, another player, the floor, or his hair before he elegantly licks his fingers prior to a free-throw? There’s no way I’m touching his hands. No way.

Rooting For: I’m more likely to root for a sequel to Doubt than either of these teams. I despise the Lakers for three reasons. 1. Phil Jackson-can’t stand him. 2. Pau Gasol-can’t stand him. 3. Phil Jackson-I REALLY can’t stand him. I guess with that said, I will be rooting for the Phoenix Suns. While rooting for Phoenix won’t be enjoyable, it would be nice for Grant Hill and Nash to reach the finals. Although seeing Amare Stoudemire and Jared Dudley (whom I’ve disliked since his Boston College days) along for the ride will be tough to swallow. I’ll also spend a little energy rooting for Kobe. He’s a class one a-hole but so was Jordan, and it’s hard not to admire his will to win. If LeBron had half of Kobe’s will, the Cavs would still be around.

What/who will be the Difference: Andrew Bynum and Gasol will make life very difficult for the Suns. Their size and power down low should control the tempo of the game and limit the Suns’ fast break opportunities. If Bynum and Gasol are effective, Phoenix will need to shoot a high percentage and limit their turnovers just to hang around. While the Spurs lacked a superior defender, the Lakers have Ron Artest and if need be, Kobe. Furthermore, Phoenix won’t get as many second opportunities as they did in their prior series because of LA’s size, so again, it’s important they’re shooting above 50%. Similar to the eastern final, this series is the Lakers’ to lose. To advance, Phoenix must find a way to goat Kobe into taking too many shots and ignoring LA’s obvious advantage down low.

Notables: TNT’s pregame, halftime, and postgame coverage is infinitely better than ESPN’s because Charles, Kenny, and CWebb make you feel like you’re hanging out with your friends. Listening to Doug Collins during the game is fun too. It’s like when your dad speaks at the dinner table-everyone stops to listen. I love Doug Collins. I secretly wish he were my second grandfather. *To protect my TV and yours as well, I’ve already written the NBA requesting they limit airtime given Adam Morrison’s mustache. I’m not sure what look he’s going for, but “creepy pedophile guy” is the one that comes to mind. Or the Sydney Crosby look, whichever you prefer. *Channing Frye will undoubtedly shoot less than 30% from beyond the arc this series for two reasons. 1. He shot 54% to knock out the Spurs. And 2. I picked him for our playoff competition. *Last but not least, good old Jack Nicholson. I don’t understand why referees take grief from him. There must an agreement with the league or something. If he were any other fan, he would’ve been ejected a zillion times by now. I’m a devoted Sixers fan with a crush on the Spurs, but I will blindly follow any coach that draws up an inbound play right in front of Jack where the ball is inbounded and then immediately chucked back to the inbounder, only the inbounder ducks and the ball sails into Jack’s face. That’s not too much to ask, right?

Prediction: Lakers in 7. While the Suns have an aura about them, I don’t think it’ll be enough, so picking LA in 7 makes me appear like I know what I’m talking about.

LeBron James

As we all know, LeBron once again made an early exit from the postseason a la Alexander Ovechkin. Most of the writers I’ve read have covered all the significant points of LeBron’s latest failure. I agree with just about all of them too, especially the ones that detailed LeBron’s nonchalant demeanor as his season and tenure in Cleveland went down in flames. Since I have no original thoughts on the matter, I thought I would gloat and share this little piece I wrote up in March for a gentleman that wanted my opinion on LeBron James’ chances at a 2010 title. I missed on the Celtics part, but I think I was right on about the Cavaliers…

“Though we continue to ignore the truth, the seventh year of the LeBron James experience will end in similar fashion to its predecessors. It’s hard to argue otherwise too. Yes, LeBron James is the most gifted player in the NBA. Unfortunately, he’s also the only premiere player on his roster. We’ve seen this screenplay before: Incredibly talented superstar surrounded by average contributors. While it may make for an enjoyable regular season, the ending is anticlimactic, predictable, and downright lame.

While a repeat ending is imminent, mainstream media will undoubtedly spend the next few weeks convincing you and I that James and the Cleveland Cavaliers have enough to claim the title. Don’t listen. As good as he is, James doesn’t have the firepower to overcome the depth of his competitors. Shaquille O’Neal hasn’t been relevant in four years. Antawn Jamison came to town a year too late. Even Mo Williams and Delonte West are struggling. Just to get out of the East, the Cavs will need to get by the Orlando Magic and maybe even the Boston Celtics. James can handle the decrepit Celtics, but Orlando’s depth may derail Cleveland’s championship train. Furthermore, even advancing past the conference finals would match James against one of the heavy hitters from the Western Conference. Checkmate. There are just too many obstacles to overcome. LeBron’s teammates won’t be up to the challenge.

Great players lead teams to championships, but rarely carry them entirely. Kobe Bryant had Pau Gasol. Paul Pierce had Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen. Even the great Michael Jordan had Scottie Pippen. LeBron’s alone. That isn’t going to change, at least not in time for the 2010 playoffs. ”

To start, the playoffs happened. While cliché, the playoffs really are an entirely new season. The Flyers, Washington Capitals, and Montreal Canadiens have all proven as much. The Flyers spent most of the 2009-2010 season overcoming injuries and fighting off accusations of locker room issues. Instead of folding and looking toward next year, the Flyers regrouped to become the grittiest team in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. They erased the overwhelmingly favored New Jersey Devils with relative ease in round one, and followed that up by treating fans to one of the greatest comebacks in history. Overcoming a three games to none deficit is an amazing accomplishment. We could spend 1,200 words describing such a feat. As enjoyable as that may be, let’s focus on what enabled the Flyers to pull off the greatest comeback the NHL has seen in thirty years.

As previously mentioned, the Flyers have overcome a rash of injuries, both in the regular season and the playoffs. They’ve essentially advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals with two goalies that were each listed as the team’s third goalie at one point this season. The Flyer’s top scorer and most lethal offensive threat (Jeff Carter) struggled through a rough year and was essentially lost for the playoffs early in the first round. Another offensive threat and veteran leader was also injured for a chunk of the playoffs and just recently returned to action. With or without those injuries, the Flyers are hardly one of the NHL’s elite squads anyway (as far as talent is concerned). Ask any NHL fan from outside the Delaware Valley to name two players from the Philadelphia Flyers and they’ll respond, “Chris Pronger” and “Ron Hextall.” The Flyers aren’t laden with superstars or marquee players. They’re a hardworking, resolute group that have found their groove at the right time, and refuse to roll over when logic tells them they should. (This was perfectly exemplified in game 4 when the Bruins tied the game in the final minutes to force overtime. Most teams down 0-3 in that situation close up shop. The Flyers outplayed Boston in overtime to stay alive and momentum shifted to the Flyers. Tying the game late and then losing was the worst possible scenario for Boston. It gave too much confidence to Philadelphia and deflated Boston more than an outright loss would have. All the pressure immediately shifted to Boston. They never recovered.) Like the city they represent, these Flyers are fighters. They’re Rocky Balboa, Vince Papale, and Bobby Clarke all wrapped into one.

While noble, overcoming injuries and playing with heart isn’t enough to win in the playoffs. An unheralded complementary cast is necessary to succeed. Scottie Hartnell and Claude Giroux won’t make Sportscenter’s Top Plays on a nightly basis, but they will make a difference in a long series. TNT’s basketball analyst, Doug Collins often uses the term, “50/50” plays. These are the small plays that appear insignificant but ultimately decide a series. Obviously, they’re referred to as 50/50 plays because they’re entirely up for grabs. These plays aren’t given freely though, they’re earned. Hustle, hard work, determination, and grit win most 50/50 plays. Hartnell and Giroux have provided the Flyers with an overwhelming majority of 50/50 plays. Giroux has an uncanny ability to find the open man and create offense, while Hartnell has thrown his body around to clear a puck, insight some energy, and even score a significant goal when needed. These guys are pocket knives. Whatever you need from them, they’re willing and able to provide it. You can’t win in the playoffs without “pocket knife” players.

In addition to the pocket knives, a successful playoff team requires heroic performances. Even though he looks as if he skates in mud through open ice, Chris Pronger has proven his worth throughout these playoffs. He’s big, mean, and more importantly, the reason Flyer goalies have had mostly clear views of the shots coming their way. Pronger clears the front of the net like a plow, and he isn’t afraid to deliver or absorb a severe blow in the process.

On the offensive end, the Flyers are getting “who are you, and what did you do with your old self?” performances from Danny Briere and Simon Gagne. Fittingly, both players have been tagged as career underachievers for the Flyers. In the second round especially, Briere and Gagne have carried the scoring load. Both scored goals at critical junctures of the series. Gagne returned from injury to net the overtime game winner to avoid the sweep in game four, and then sealed the series with his late 3^rd period goal in game 7. Briere has scored big goals throughout the series as well and has also been a catalyst for the Flyers offense. It took awhile, but Briere is finally playing like the player the Flyers thought they were getting when they plucked him from Buffalo three years ago.

Even more critical to the Flyers success is the character of the team. The Flyers never stop fighting, always play with urgency, and never believe they’re finished. These characteristics are all a direct reflection of leadership. In hockey terms, the Flyers’ captain is a bad man. That man is Mike Richards. Over the past two seasons, Richards has received harsh criticism for his leadership skills-he’s not tough enough, not focused, stays out too late, etc… Well guess what? When your team claws its way back from a 0-3 deficit to win a seven game series, that means your captain knows what he’s doing, and he’s doing it well.

Great athletes rise from adverse situations. It took Richards some time to figure out his role as captain, but he’s certainly responded to that call now. Watch any Flyers game over the past month and one player will stick out. He’s the player that goes all out for an entire shift. He scores, he facilitates, he defends, he fights, he hits, and he’s the fiercest player on the ice. For lack of a better term, he RUMBLES. Now look at that man’s number; it’s number 18. Mike Richards has grown into the leadership role the Flyers knew he was capable of when they slapped that “C” on his sweater. He couldn’t have picked a better time.

The Flyers playoff run is full of feel-good stories and obviously, a historic revival. They discarded long time nemesis Martin Brodeur and the New Jersey Devils in round one, poetically fought off a 0-3 series deficit to win game seven 4-3 after trailing 0-3 early in the first period, and have managed to gain home ice for the conference finals as a seventh seed. It’s a great story. Now here’s the inconvenient truth of the situation; if the Flyers don’t win the Stanly Cup, or at the very least advance to the Cup Finals, it will all be mostly forgotten.

I know, I know, you’re angry and think I’m wrong. Settle down and listen. It’s not fun, but this is the way sports work. If the Boston Red Sox don’t go on to win the 2004 World Series after storming back from 0-3 against the Yankees, do we remember that comeback like we do today? No, not really. Maybe we remember the comeback, but it’s severely watered down. Look at 4^th and 26. It was/is perhaps the greatest play in NFL playoff history. Unfortunately, the miraculous fourth down conversion is mostly ignored in the sports world because the Eagles wet the bed against Carolina in the NFC Championship. If a title doesn’t follow a great playoff moment, that moment is ultimately for naught. It’s a harsh reality, but also very true.

Right now the Flyers’ second round comeback against the Boston Bruins is historic. For it to become legendary, a parade down Broad Street must ensue. We remember the Red Sox’s rally in the ALCS because they won the World Series. We adore Rocky’s determination and toughness because he eventually took down Ivan Drago. Without a Stanley Cup, we’ll have a nice story and fond memories of the 2010 Flyers, but nothing legendary.

Allow me to explain why with a few examples from the 2010 NBA and NHL Playoffs.

Obviously (as noted in my Alexander the Goat article a few weeks back), I believed the Washington Capitals deserved to be serenaded with boos. I would have even tolerated litter on the ice. Yes, throwing trash onto the ice is childish, illegal, and dangerous, but all three adjectives describe how most professional athletes behave in society anyway, so have at it. (Just kidding…about tolerating things being thrown onto the ice, not how athletes behave.) The Capitals deserved their fans’ disgust. Instead, they received a round of applause. Shame on you, Capital fans.

Yes, losing happens; it’s a part of sports. However, losing isn’t what requires booing, it’s the frequency and severity of losing that makes booing necessary. The Capitals have shriveled up and died in the playoffs for three straight years. When that happens, you boo…loudly, and you don’t stop until you’ve chased them off the ice. I even booed the Capitals and Alexander Ovechkin from my couch…and I’m a Flyers fan. The same formula should be applied to the New Jersey Devils. Another example of a regular season bully that goes M.I.A. come playoff time.

In the NBA playoffs, the Atlanta Hawks come to mind. No one expected the Hawks to beat the Orlando Magic in round two. However, Atlanta fans (and all basketball fans) were appalled at the lack of effort and intensity demonstrated by the Hawks. After being blown out by more than 40 points in the series opener, Atlanta responded by getting trounced in their next three outings and was swept from the playoffs. Sweeps happen. Getting beaten by a better team happens. Even getting blown out by a superior opponent is understandable, but to exert no effort and zero intensity is unacceptable, especially in the playoffs. The Hawks don’t really have a fan base, but the few fans they do have should still be booing.

As for the Cavaliers being booed by their own fans in what could have been LeBron’s final home game? I loved it. LeBron has held those fans hostage for the last two years. They’re scared to death about whether he’ll leave or stay. On Tuesday night, LeBron and the Cavaliers were so putrid that Cleveland fans finally stood up and said, ENOUGH! Even great players need to be told they stink from time to time. By booing LeBron, Cleveland may have pushed him away for good. If that’s the case, good for them. Any player that can’t take some boos, especially after a lousy game like that, doesn’t deserve the blind devotion that Cleveland has given to LeBron. Given is the key word. LeBron is a fantastic player, but he hasn’t earned anything yet. He has one NBA Finals appearance, no wins and zero championships. At this point, he owes Cleveland more than they owe him. Booing his lackadaisical effort on Tuesday night was the right call-we obviously want you to stay, but this is unacceptable. Cleveland’s season isn’t over, but sometimes a single game deserves a chorus of boos. Cleveland fans hit all the right notes on Tuesday night.

Let’s break it down in real world terms. If I have a great year at work, everyone loves me, and then I go on a two week stretch where I’m as worthless as Sammy Sosa without ‘roids, you better believe someone is going to say something. Why are fans supposed to ignore a sloppy two week stretch (at the most important time of the year nonetheless)? Because the team gave us an enjoyable regular season? No thank you. The greatest thing about “sports” is its simplicity. Only one thing matters; championships. Fans aren’t rooting for a rosy regular season. We want titles. Obviously, the season(s) building up to that title are appreciated and celebrated, but once a team gets stagnant in that pursuit (Capitals, Atlanta Hawks), fans get fed up.

The Philadelphia Eagles epitomize stagnant. Philly fans loved the early 2000’s as Donovan McNabb and the birds rose to prominence. We didn’t boo when the Giants beat us in the Divisional Round or when St. Louis squeaked out a win in the Conference Championship. Losing is an integral part of winning. However, once the Eagles dropped three consecutive NFC Championships (two to lesser opponents), the natives got restless. A half-decade later, we’re still restless. The Eagles have been running in place since the Patriots won Super Bowl XXXIX.

To further prove that losing doesn’t always deserve booing, let’s look at the Philadelphia Flyers and Oklahoma City Thunder. The Flyers were down 0-3 in a seven game series to the Boston Bruins. They’ve since battled back to tie the series at three. Let’s pretend the Flyers were swept by the Bruins in four games, the final loss coming at the Wachovia Center. I’m almost certain the Philadelphia crowd would have applauded the Flyers. They were overmatched, shorthanded, and battling injuries that plagued them all year. A sweep would have been disheartening, but no one could question the Flyers effort.

The same is true for the Thunder. In their first playoff appearance, the young Thunder went head to head to with the powerful Lakers and extended the series to six games. The Thunder played hard and attacked the favored Lakers, but still fell in defeat. Losing in the 2010 playoffs was an early step in building a successful team that should compete for the NBA title for years to come. Did the players want to lose? Of course not. Kevin Durant shrugged off talk of moral victories immediately after the series ended. When asked how he felt, he responded, “Like I just lost a playoff series.” I’m sure Durant understands getting postseason experience (even losing) is part of the process, but no player with aspirations for greatness would accept that as an excuse for defeat. The Thunder faithful clearly understood the situation. After game six the Thunder were treated to a rousing and well-deserved ovation from their crowd. The fans appreciated the team’s development over the past year and thanked them for their efforts and success. Now, if OKC is still getting bumped in the first round two years from now, you better believe those fans will start booing, and so they should.

Too conclude, I don’t have a problem with fans not booing. To boo or not to boo is a choice that every fan can make. However, if a multi-millionaire athlete isn’t giving his best effort in the playoffs; you better believe I’m going to let him hear about it. After all, I get scolded at work if I misread a zip code.