Denver Post: Sports Headlines

Dater: NHL playoff games can't be beat for fans of hockey

Sun, 27 May 2012 12:01:47 MDT

With the Stanley Cup Finals set to go, it's time for some thoughts on the NHL playoffs to this point and to forecast what will happen between the Kings and Devils, and some other hockey stuff.

Kiszla: NFL great Forrest Gregg in new battle vs. Parkinson's

Sun, 27 May 2012 11:58:53 MDT

When football legend Forrest Gregg opened the envelope, the last thing he expected was a love letter from Chicago. But old Packers stars can get love from understanding Bears fans too.

Rockies' season quickly coming apart at the seams

Sun, 27 May 2012 10:53:53 MDT

After their first win in a week, music replaced sighs as the Rockies' clubhouse soundtrack Wednesday. Those highlights have been few and far between early this season.

Paige: Dan O'Dowd era officially ruled an error

Sun, 27 May 2012 10:45:30 MDT

Dick Monfort uttered the most preposterous claim in Denver sports history."I can't think of a general manager in baseball as good as (Dan O'Dowd)."

Derik Beauprez shakes off slump to lead Cherry Creek past Legend for 5A state title

Sun, 27 May 2012 05:28:34 MDT

Derik Beauprez is long, tall and talented, as well as recognized as one of the top juniors nationally. He is a feared hitter, but it was his pitching that turned the tide for the Bruins.

Broomfield regroups, wins Class 4A baseball title

Sun, 27 May 2012 05:26:39 MDT

Broomfield forgot the morning then won the afternoon. In between, the Eagles' baseball team took a break Saturday at Dave & Buster's, just a short seven-minute drive down Buchtel Boulevard from All-City Field, site of the Class 4A championship against Air Academy.

Eaton's 10th title in 3A baseball comes with sigh of relief

Sun, 27 May 2012 05:23:15 MDT

If the time ever comes for Eaton baseball coach Jim Danley to retire, he should consider a second career in the insurance business.

Renck: Rockies' youngsters need to get plenty of playing time

Sun, 27 May 2012 01:39:22 MDT

When the Rockies left spring training, it was obvious that age would be an issue. But it has become a problem at multiple levels.

Colorado Rapids beat Montreal Impact 3-2 with bizarre goal

Sun, 27 May 2012 01:20:29 MDT

For the Rapids, it was just your everyday back-header pass off the crossbar to a teammate for another header and the game-winning goal.

Don't blame hunters for loss of deer population

Sun, 27 May 2012 00:58:53 MDT

By now, Paul West of Fort Collins has heard plenty from the online community regarding his proposal to place a moratorium on deer hunting in order to boost deer herds in decline in Colorado

Harvest of farm system no quick fix for Colorado Rockies

Sun, 27 May 2012 00:57:15 MDT

Rockies ownership and manager Jim Tracy are chanting the patience mantra again, something fans have heard often during the franchise's history.

Rockies fans continue to show support for a team perhaps undeserving

Sun, 27 May 2012 00:56:46 MDT

Three men of different ages, with varying degrees of baseball interest, saddled up to the bar at the Blake Street Tavern last Wednesday.

Check out future stars at U.S. Amateur event

Sun, 27 May 2012 00:54:03 MDT

Phil Mickelson's connection to Colorado spans beyond The International, the now defunct PGA Tour event at Castle Pines.

All-comers track meet a chance to show off

Sun, 27 May 2012 00:52:45 MDT

There may be no place on the planet that has a better assortment of endurance events for athletes of all types than the Denver-Boulder area.

Front Range offers more than Mile-High Nationals

Sun, 27 May 2012 00:51:52 MDT

The National Hod Rod Association's Mile-High Nationals at Bandimere Speedway will be the biggest auto-racing event on the Front Range, with the midsummer classic entering its 33rd year.

Dufner leads Johnson by one at Colonial in bid for third win in four weeks

Sun, 27 May 2012 00:43:51 MDT

Jason Dufner and Zach Johnson have set up what will basically be a match-play final round for the winner's plaid jacket at the Colonial.

Hochman: Lakers' key question: Is Andrew Bynum's talent worth the trouble?

Sun, 27 May 2012 00:42:00 MDT

Andrew Bynum could become one of our game's great giants (I mean, we'll see), a man whose (occasional) power and presence will make him a transcendent star (wait, really?).

Family legacy not on Marco Andretti's mind as he welcomes favorite's role at Indy 500

Sun, 27 May 2012 00:32:44 MDT

;Marco Andretti knows how much heartache his family has suffered at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Kiszla: Losing keeping Troy Tulowitzki up at night

Sun, 27 May 2012 00:25:53 MDT

The nightmare at the ballpark is keeping Rockies shortstop Troy Tulowitzki awake at night. He can't hit. He can't win. He can't sleep.

Rockies' Jeremy Guthrie can't overcome shaky defense, HR blasts

Sun, 27 May 2012 00:04:19 MDT

There are few games on the Rockies' schedule that inspire hope. Saturday night's loss, the Rockies' 17th this month, wasn't one of them.

Jeremy Guthrie's rough start now includes trouble on road

Sat, 26 May 2012 23:53:17 MDT

Jeremy Guthrie has been a huge disappointment. He had one strong point: He pitched well in early-season road games. That streak ended Saturday night in Cincinnati.

Kickin' It: Media's bias helped limit Tim Tebow's time in Denver

Sat, 26 May 2012 23:34:14 MDT

Peyton Manning's impact is being felt even as some wonder what role the media played in getting Tim Tebow out of Denver.

At 40, Devils' Brodeur gives team shot at Cup

Sat, 26 May 2012 23:25:04 MDT

With Martin Brodeur nearing his 40th birthday and entering the final year of his contract, this season at first had the look of a last hurrah for the New Jersey standout. OK, so his stay is extended to include a trip to the Stanley Cup Finals.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. itching to end Sprint drought

Sat, 26 May 2012 23:20:40 MDT

At first, Dale Earnhardt Jr. was relieved he didn't fall further back than seventh at last year's Coca-Cola 600. Then he realized his gas consumption was just a bit more than he wanted.

Denver Broncos have starting jobs at defensive tackle available again

Sat, 26 May 2012 23:01:41 MDT

Another offseason, another year in which defensive tackle remains perhaps the biggest question about the Broncos' defense.

Rajon Rondo's late push, triple-double key Celtics win over 76ers in Game 7

Sat, 26 May 2012 22:55:29 MDT

Rajon Rondo had 18 points, 10 assists and 10 rebounds as the Boston Celtics beat the Philadelphia 76ers 85-75 in Game 7 on Saturday night to advance to the Eastern Conference finals.

Carlos Gonzalez carrying more clout lately

Sat, 26 May 2012 22:22:51 MDT

There's little about baseball that surprises Carlos Gonzalez. He was a bit taken aback when he was told his defense inspires his critics.

James, Heat start tuning for East finals

By TIM REYNOLDS AP Sports Writer — Sat, 26 May 2012 21:00:26 MDT

MIAMI—LeBron James shook a few hands, slapped a few fives, gave a few hugs. That was the extent of his celebrating after the Miami Heat ousted the Indiana Pacers.

Eaton topples Holy Family in 3A baseball

Sat, 26 May 2012 20:19:05 MDT

Eaton made its point early and often Friday. The Reds scored eight runs in the first inning of their Class 3A elimination game against Holy Family and never looked back.

Henderson: London's unique Olympic venues coming into view

Sat, 26 May 2012 19:39:53 MDT

I recently saw a sneak video preview of some Olympic venues by some stodgy English architects. I disagree with some of their perceptions.

Novak Djokovic looking to match Rod Laver's feat

Sat, 26 May 2012 19:11:47 MDT

;As daylight disappeared and wind whipped loose dirt around the court, Novak Djokovic watched one last ace fly off Roger Federer's racket and end their thrill-a-minute semifinal at the 2011 French Open. Djokovic hasn't lost a Grand Slam match since, winning 21 in a row.

Deena Kastor, mother of running's rebirth, in Bolder Boulder field at 39

Sat, 26 May 2012 19:03:52 MDT

Motherhood has been a blessing for Olympic marathon medalist Deena Kastor, although she readily concedes that her 16-month-old daughter can be a "pistol."

Thunder, Spurs ready to finally settle West's best

By PAUL J. WEBER AP Sports Writer — Sat, 26 May 2012 15:16:34 MDT

SAN ANTONIO—Maybe they'll finally get a challenge this time. The San Antonio Spurs and Oklahoma City Thunder have simply rolled through this postseason.

Rapids journeyman Kamani Hill gets chance to shine in MLS

Sat, 26 May 2012 10:58:16 MDT

Six years ago, Kamani Hill was living the life as a soccer player, a 20-year-old starter for a first-division team, Wolfsburg, of the prestigious German Bundesliga. Things haven't been that good since.

Andy Heider redeems himself with game-winning hit as Cherry Creek eliminates Highlands Ranch

Sat, 26 May 2012 09:01:53 MDT

Andy Heider had a lot on his mind. Obviously it wasn't enough to keep the Cherry Creek senior from delivering the big hit for the Bruins.

Peter Bayer has superb pitching performance as Regis Jesuit defeats Legend

Sat, 26 May 2012 08:59:14 MDT

Peter Bayer had done it before. The Regis Jesuit senior had faced Legend multiple times, so even though the Raiders' season was on the line Friday at All-City Field, he knew he could do it.

Jordan Sena shakes off errors as Lamar beats Brush in 3A baseball to stay alive

Sat, 26 May 2012 08:56:25 MDT

In a span of a little more than an hour Friday afternoon, Lamar High baseball coach Dave Fassiotto watched his team transform from the Bad News Bears to the Bronx Bombers.

Broomfield advances to 4A baseball title game

Sat, 26 May 2012 08:52:44 MDT

Brandon Bailey was on the third pitch of his warm-up sequence when he was summoned.

Air Academy beats Cheyenne Mountain to play for 4A baseball title

Sat, 26 May 2012 08:52:20 MDT

Kevin Kimbrow hit his third home run of the state tournament Friday — this one a two-out, two-run shot to center field in the seventh inning that sealed a 6-2 win over Cheyenne Mountain.

Rockies' rookie Friedrich turns in five rugged innings to beat Reds and improve to 2-1

Sat, 26 May 2012 00:53:15 MDT

Only a scant percentage of kids who pick up a ball reach the big leagues. It takes the right combination of skills and other factors, and Christian Friedrich is showing he has those attributes.

Mario Fannin intrigues Broncos with speed, receiving ability at RB

Sat, 26 May 2012 00:15:40 MDT

Mario Fannin was certainly one of the most intriguing rookies in last year's training camp.

Friedrich pitches well and gives Rockies a chance to win

Sat, 26 May 2012 00:13:35 MDT

The Rockies have this thing about loving to play the Cincinnati Reds. Friday night's game was just another good example.

Celtics, 76ers get set for Game 7 showdown

Sat, 26 May 2012 00:04:04 MDT

The Boston Celtics have been here a few times before, facing a Game 7 with a chance to advance in the NBA playoffs riding on the outcome.

CU women finish 18th in NCAA golf tournament

Sat, 26 May 2012 00:00:38 MDT

Alabama won its first women's golf title Friday in Franklin, Tenn. Colorado finished 18th

Former Nuggets guard J.R. Smith arrested on bench warrant

Fri, 25 May 2012 23:56:31 MDT

Miami Beach police said New York Knicks guard J.R. Smith has been arrested on a bench warrant for not having a valid driver's license.

Jason Dufner fires 64 for two-shot lead at the Colonial

Fri, 25 May 2012 23:54:19 MDT

Jason Dufner lists Ben Hogan as his hero.At Hogan's Alley, Dufner has the lead halfway through the Colonial with a chance for a Texas two-step that only Hogan has accomplished.

Rockies pitcher Jhoulys Chacin dealing with nerve issue in pectoral muscle

Fri, 25 May 2012 23:42:33 MDT

Jhoulys Chacin finally has an answer as to why his hand felt like it was going to sleep. That's not a good thing for a pitcher.

Brad Keselowski reflects on first meeting with Roger Penske as he prepares for Coca-Cola 600

Fri, 25 May 2012 23:35:01 MDT

Brad Keselowski got the first of many surprises at his first meeting with racing great Roger Penske.

"Dorky Canadian" James Hinchcliffe no longer just Danica Patrick's replacement

Fri, 25 May 2012 23:28:01 MDT

James Hinchcliffe still isn't over the disappointment of losing the Indianapolis 500 pole by a measly 9 inches to Ryan Briscoe.

Air Academy moves on to Colorado title game in 4A baseball

Fri, 25 May 2012 23:09:55 MDT

LAKEWOOD — Maybe Kevin Kimbrow will get his name in the program now.The Air Academy junior, whose name was missing from the Kadets' roster on programs for sale at the Class 4A

Devils make Cup finals after 3-2 win over Rangers

By TOM CANAVAN AP Sports Writer — Fri, 25 May 2012 22:53:18 MDT

NEWARK, N.J.—The memory of missing the playoffs for first time since 1996 and the ghost of an 18-year-old wound were wiped out with a sweep of rookie Adam Henrique's stick.

Adam Henrique's OT goal bedevils Rangers, sends New Jersey to Stanley Cup Finals

Fri, 25 May 2012 22:41:02 MDT

A year after missing the playoffs for the first time since 1996, the New Jersey Devils are going back to the Stanley Cup Finals, thanks to a rookie, a 40-year-old goalie and a coach who is new to the postseason.

Rockies' prospect Corey Dickerson enjoying solid success in California League

Fri, 25 May 2012 22:25:42 MDT

Who said playing minor-league baseball is like being out in the middle of nowhere? On the team's day off Wednesday from its California League schedule, Modesto outfielder Corey Dickerson was in San Francisco enjoying tourist time.

3A baseball's state tournament bracket

Fri, 25 May 2012 18:50:57 MDT

The 2012 Class 3A baseball state tournament runs May 18-26.

5A baseball's state tournament bracket

Fri, 25 May 2012 18:50:20 MDT

The 2012 Class 5A baseball state tournament runs May 18-26.

4A baseball's state tournament bracket

Fri, 25 May 2012 18:44:07 MDT

The 2012 Class 4A baseball state tournament runs May 18-26.

Broomfield advances to 4A baseball title game

Fri, 25 May 2012 17:46:54 MDT

Brandon Bailey was on the third pitch of his warmup sequence in the bullpen when he was summoned.

Conditions on Everest too much for Golden climbers to continue

Fri, 25 May 2012 16:10:27 MDT

A week after four died on Mount Everest, two climbers from Golden have abandoned their goal to climb the mountain's West Ridge because conditions on the mountain are so dangerous.

Colorado Rockies need Marco Scutaro to produce from leadoff position

Fri, 25 May 2012 13:07:54 MDT

If the Rockies make a remarkable U-turn, a development players have staunchly believed possible since the pixie-dust days of 2007 and 2009, Marco Scutaro's clumsy start as their leadoff hitter might become a faded memory.

Knicks' J.R. Smith arrested in Florida's South Beach

Fri, 25 May 2012 12:28:28 MDT

Miami Beach police say a New York Knicks player has been arrested on a bench warrant for not having a valid driver's license.

Broncos will wait and see with Ty Warren

Fri, 25 May 2012 12:26:01 MDT

Ty Warren was signed to a two-year deal last year with $2.5 million in signing bonus to go with a $1.5 million base salary in 2011.

Kiszla: Broncos are better off without Tim Tebow in town

Fri, 25 May 2012 09:51:27 MDT

Nothing against 80-yard touchdown passes or the Bible, but Broncos Country is a better place without Tim Tebow.

Monday's Bolder Boulder road race will be latest in annual celebration

Fri, 25 May 2012 09:44:46 MDT

The guy dressed like Jesus will be there, surely, and people will paint their faces and color their hair and wear streamers and full-body psychedelic spandex suits. It's Bolder Boulder day.

Legend Titans in control of baseball's Class 5A Championship Series

Fri, 25 May 2012 09:13:41 MDT

Brooks Trujillo returned to the scene of his previous starting assignment, at All-City Field.

Ace Tyler Honahan has young Legend program on cusp of 5A baseball title

Fri, 25 May 2012 08:42:41 MDT

As Legend has it, the Titans are on the brink of playing for Colorado's big-school state baseball crown.

Arapahoe baseball player Anthony Freddes grows out hair for Locks of Love

Fri, 25 May 2012 08:25:38 MDT

Anthony Freddes has hair. Long, beautiful hair that's in stark contrast to most of today's 16-year-olds, who opt for more of a military or Ken-doll look.

Heat advances to Eastern final with a 105-93 win over Pacers

Fri, 25 May 2012 00:07:47 MDT

There was nothing soft about Dwyane Wade and the Miami Heat when they needed to put away the Indiana Pacers. D-Wade and LeBron James showed the way as Miami earned its spot in the Eastern Conference finals.

Jerry Sloan will interview for Bobcats coaching job

Thu, 24 May 2012 23:55:56 MDT

The Charlotte Bobcats will interview Hall of Famer Jerry Sloan today for their vacant head coaching position.

Denver's Duane "Bang" Ludwig hopes to rebound at UFC 146

Thu, 24 May 2012 23:53:14 MDT

The giants of the sport will top the bill at UFC 146 on Saturday at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas — in this case, literally.

Devils take 3-2 lead into Game 6 with Rangers

Thu, 24 May 2012 23:45:03 MDT

Eighteen years ago, Mark Messier set the stage for one of sports' most dramatic moments. He pledged that the Rangers would beat the Devils in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference finals. New York needs a similar leader this year.

Colorado relievers facing overload of innings as starting pitching falters

Thu, 24 May 2012 23:40:15 MDT

On the one hand, Rockies relievers are an easy target. They own a 4.42 ERA, fifth-worst in the National League. But their numbers can't be digested without understanding their workload.