Kraken KO Cup Champs? Leafs Ready To Slay Dragons? Kawhi's Post Series Diagnosis? Heat Check/Butler's Heart, Bucks Long Summer. Pros Outweigh Cons For Rodgers In NY? NFL Draft Peek At Round 1

It's been a wild past few days in the sports universe and here to share all of my thoughts, feelings and opinions on all of the matters at hand with the latest podcast episode. On deck:

(2:43) The Seattle Kraken have made a statement to show that they not only belong in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, but they're on the verge of pulling off a huge upset in beating the defending Cup Champion, Colorado Avalanche. Can they pull it off at home in Game 6? The Maple Leafs are one game away from finally getting over the hump and winning a first round series. Why the longer the series goes it doesn't favor them? Most of the series are at 3-2, including the Islanders who saved their season with a Game 5 win in Carolina. Will they push this to a 7th game? I'll have the entire first round update as we're in the homestretch to the end of Round 1.

(18:29) The NBA has made a fool out of yours truly as these first round series has picked up some steam as three of the remaining series have some intrigue and drama. First, the Suns beat the Clippers handily in five games. It's not until after the Clippers were ousted that we find out that Kawhi Leonard suffered a torn meniscus. Why wait until the conclusion of the series to apprise us? The Heat become the sixth #8 seed to upset the top seed in the conference as Jimmy Butler willed his team to two improbable wins in Games 4 & 5. Why Butler has the biggest heart in all of the NBA? And there's lots to answer in Milwaukee as coach Mike Budenholzer has lots of explaining to do with some awful coaching in key spots as they're home for the spring. I'll discuss the Knicks blitzing the Cavaliers in 5 as we get set for a Knicks-Heat second round matchup. Will it be anything close to what we saw in the 90's between these two franchises? I'll also get into the Hawks-Celtics series and how the pressure is on the C's? Why Golden State is in the drivers seat with a tough road win in Sacramento? And the Lakers are going back to Cali to see if they can close out the Grizzlies in Game 6. Plus, Ime Udoka has found a new home as he's the new coach of the Houston Rockets.

(46:08) I briefly stress over the Mets losing the first two of three at home against the Washington Nationals before delving into the NFL. Aaron Rodgers is finally a New York Jet. Do the cons outweigh the pros now that he's officially in green and white? The NFL Draft kicks off tonight as Round 1 will take place in Kansas City. Where will the top quarterbacks fall as football fans will have their fill over the next few days to see who their favorite team will draft.

(1:01:42) I cap off the pod with some quick notes on baseball regarding the Pirates, Max Scherzer's suspension and the Braves visiting New York to play the Mets over the weekend.

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If you'd like to contribute to the production of the podcast, please visit my Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/TheJAYREELZPodcast

Many thanks for all of your love and support.

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Bucks/Grizzlies Need To Win For Intriguing 1st Round. Bruins Rebound, Oilers Survive & Leafs Gut Check Lead NHL. The First Place Pirates? Rodgers/Lamar Swallow NFL Draft? Davis-Garcia: Unimpressed

Another month is coming to a close, but the beginning of two action packed podcasts are on the horizon as I'll come correct on all that's going on in the sports galaxy. On deck:

(3:31) There hasn't been a lot of drama in the first round of the NBA Playoffs. The Sixers have swept the Nets into the spring (Joel Embiid's health & Nets direction after so much promise before the season began is an addendum), the Celtics are one game away from advancing. The Nuggets were unable to sweep the Timberwolves, but still hold a commanding 3-1 series lead. What about the Knicks? Winning both home games as they're up 3-1, whereas, the Suns won both games in LA vs. the Clippers looking to close them out at home in Game 5 (I have some serious thoughts on the Kawhi Leonard injury and his future, which has sabotaged this series). The Warriors have climbed back to even their series vs. Sacramento to deliver some intrigue and excitement. Can they win one road game, which is what they'll need to do in order to get to the next round? But we'll have to bank on both Memphis and Milwaukee to tie their respective series which resume tonight. I'll get into the state of the Grizzlies as they're at a crossroad to their season, with a lot of controversy surrounding their chirpy, defensive leader Dillon Brooks. And will Giannis Antetokounmpo return from a back injury that's kept him out since the first quarter of Game 1?

(24:29) We're hoping for a lot of drama in the Stanley Cup Playoffs as we enter the second week of the first round. The Bruins have bounced back nicely as they won both games in Florida to take a commanding 3-1 lead. The Islanders face that same deficit after a deplorable Game 4 in their building vs. Carolina. Can they bring the series back to Long Island for Game 6? A classic is brewing out West between the Kings-Oilers as they've played three of the four games into OT, where Edmonton prevailed in Game 4. The Maple Leafs had a huge gut check win in Tampa as they scored in the final minute to tie, then win in OT over the Lightning to take a 2-1 series lead. Let's see what'll take place tonight if any of those series (i.e. NYR-NJ, TB-TOR, SEA-COL or WPG-VEGAS) can draw even to add some suspense as the opening round continues.

(38:18) Don't look now, but the Pittsburgh Pirates are in FIRST PLACE! You read that right! They've done a wonderful job of late. Winners of seven in a row and even gave the manager, Derek Shelton an extension. Unfortunately, it comes with a caveat. How about the Orioles as they've been riding high, winning 10 of 12 to secure second place behind Tampa Bay in the AL East. The Astros seem to have come out of their early season doldrums as they swept the Braves in Atlanta over the weekend. My beloved Mets are coming off a 7-3 West Coast trip, but couldn't secure a series win in San Francisco as they lost the back two after winning the first couple. Then we have the Oakland A's. A team that could flirt with the 1962 Mets record for futility. They have a stadium issue unlike any other. They are drawing flies, but there is some hope as the possibility of relocating could be in the works.

(50:09) The NFL will have their annual draft in Kansas City on Thursday. Is it possible that reports, rumors or news of Aaron Rodgers and Lamar Jackson seeking new destinations could swallow the festivities later this week?

(53:32) A highly anticipated match between Gervonta 'Tank' Davis & Ryan Garcia fell way short of the hype as Davis wins by KO in the 7th round. There's been talk about Davis being the "face of boxing". Is that accurate? Are there any contenders in his class that could threaten that?

Please subscribe, leave a rating and post a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Spotify, Luminary, Amazon Music and iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you'd like to contribute to the production of the podcast, please visit my Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/TheJAYREELZPodcast

Many thanks for all of your love and support.

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Bruins Pressure? Leafs Heart. Wild West Leads NHL Playoff Headlines. Brooks Bravado, Draymond Suspension Highlights NBA. Tatis Jr. Return To MLB. Tua Mulled Retirement? The Fight To Save Boxing?

It's been an uneven, up and down week for the podcast, but you know I'm here to deliver by hook or by crook, all that's going on in sports. On deck:

(2:45) I'll get into how it has been a zany week for yours truly. Between releasing a podcast a day late, then getting a head cold that I'm fighting through on Tuesday. But that won't stop me from pumping out these podcasts on a bi-weekly and week to week basis.

(4:15) The first few days of the Stanley Cup Playoffs have delivered some juicy storylines. The lower seeds of the Western Conference all get a leg up on their respective series. The Islanders had a tough loss as they did not get a call in overtime, which led to a game winning goal by Carolina. Are the Bruins facing a little pressure after their Game 2 loss to Florida? Then you have the Maple Leafs. A very discouraging loss as they avoid another major letdown of not getting out of the first round in almost two decades.

(25:54) As for the NBA Playoffs, three series are pretty much afterthoughts as Denver, Philadelphia and Boston have commanding 2-0 series leads against Minnesota, Brooklyn and Atlanta, respectively. Memphis avoids an 0-2 deficit as they even the series vs. the Lakers last night. Can Dillon Brooks not say anything to "poke the bear"? Will the Clippers and Suns have length in their series? How will the Knicks and Cavaliers play out? Can the Bucks win without Giannis Antetokounmpo? The defending champion Warriors are down 0-2 vs. Sacramento. The big news was Draymond Green getting suspended for his actions stomping on the chest of Domantas Sabonis in Game 2. Was his act suspension worthy? Was it unfair?

(38:37) There is a big return of a player who'll be reintroduced tonight in the MLB. That is a one, Fernando Tatis Jr. After injuries and a PED suspension, he'll take the field in Arizona tonight for the first time since 2021. How will he be received in his own locker room? What are the expectations coming into a team made for a World Series run? Max Scherzer was ejected from a game vs. the Dodgers because of a sticky substance on his hand and glove. Was it warranted considering he was cooperating the whole time? Clayton Kershaw hit the 200 win plateau for his career as he beat the Mets on Tuesday night. I'll go around the diamond to see what else is happening as we get close to completing the first month of the baseball season.

(47:45) Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa recently addressed that he was mulling retirement due to the concussions he sustained last year in three separate games. How do you think the NFL's front office reacted to this?

(52:51) There's a big time boxing match that'll take place on Saturday night between Gervonta 'Tank' Davis vs. Ryan Garcia. Will these two fighters who have impeccable records (Davis 28-0, 26 KO's. Garcia 23-0, 19 KO's) live up to the hype that's been building up to this point?

Please subscribe, leave a rating and post a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Spotify, Luminary, Amazon Music and iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you'd like to contribute to the production of the podcast, please visit my Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/TheJAYREELZPodcast

Many thanks for all of your love and support.

Intro/outro music by Cyklonus.

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Sports - ProfessionalJason NazarioApril 20, 2023Sports, Sports Talk, Sports Podcast, Podcast, Podcasting, The JAYREELZ Podcast, NBA, Basketball, NBA Playoffs, NHL, Hockey, Stanley Cup Playoffs, MLB, Baseball, NFL, FootballComment

Giannis & Ja's Injuries Highlight Competitive NBA Playoff Weekend. Bruins Dominance, Leafs Curse Headline Cup Playoffs. Rays Finally Lose, Gerrit Cole's Hot Start. Hurts Big Payday. Too Soon?

Your favorite little sports podcast host may not have arrived on time to start off the week, but you best believe, I'm always coming correct, direct and in full effect on all that's happening in sports. On deck:

(2:37) I'll explain the delay of what is originally Monday's podcast (being released on Tuesday this week instead)

(3:25) The NBA Playoffs have begun. It has been exciting to say the least with some big surprise road wins by the underdogs (i.e. Heat, Clippers and Knicks), a few key injuries that could impact the postseason (i.e. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Ja Morant & Tyler Herro) as I survey the opening weekend of the Association and where the week may take us as we get into Round 1.

(27:15) Hockey fans rejoice! The Stanley Cup Playoffs are here. I'll cover the three big storylines of this tournament (i.e. Can the Boston Bruins dominance continue to a Cup win? Will the Toronto Maple Leafs finally get over the first round series hump? And the West is as we've seen as a possible seven teams could be representative as a Cup finalist.) I'll break down all of the first round matchups with predictions and what we may expect over the next two weeks?

(46:16) The two big newsworthy items in the MLB are the Rays getting their 13 game winning streak out of the gate snapped in Toronto. Yankees ace Gerrit Cole is off to a torrid start at 4-0, but can we see this in October. Plus, some thoughts on the Mets winning in Oakland and the Dodgers are currently .500?

(51:20) Eagles QB Jalen Hurts is now the highest paid player in the NFL. He signed a five year, $255 million dollar contract after one MVP-like season. Was this too soon for the Eagle front office to fork over the big bucks? Do you need to see more? Also, Cardinals safety, Budda Baker is requesting a trade out of Arizona? Will it happen?

Please subscribe, leave a rating and post a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Spotify, Luminary, Amazon Music and iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you'd like to contribute to the production of the podcast, please visit my Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/TheJAYREELZPodcast

Many thanks for all of your love and support.

Intro/outro music by Cyklonus.

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Sports - ProfessionalJason NazarioApril 18, 2023Sports, Sports Talk, Sports Podcast, Podcast, Podcasting, The JAYREELZ Podcast, NBA, NBA Playoffs, Basketball, NHL, Hockey, Stanley Cup Playoffs, MLB, Baseball, NFL, FootballComment

Road Teams Rule NBA Play-In. DEN, PHX & BOS: Top Storylines As Playoffs Begin Saturday. Islanders Secure Playoff Spot. Rays Roll To 12 Straight! When Will Streak End? Colts Should Keep #4 Pick

I'm geared up for some playoff action as this podcast will have plenty of that, as well as, what else is happening throughout the sports landscape as the latest episode is forthcoming. On deck:

(3:28) It's going to be warm in the Northeast over the next few days as we get a taste of summer here in April. The beauty of this month is getting ready for the two month journey of the playoffs in both the NHL & NBA. The play-in tournament in the Association has gotten off to a tremendous start with three of the four teams winning on the road. And the Lakers barely winning on their end as the only home team victorious over the first two nights. I'll discuss the four play-in tournament games. The disappointing losses in Toronto and New Orleans, including Zion Williamson being physically fine to play, but not psychologically ready to suit up. Will the Miami Heat get out of the tournament and make the playoffs? Can Oklahoma City's young guns win in Minnesota to go up against the Denver Nuggets? I'll have a complete first round preview and get into the storylines that will captivate the hoops fan as we tip off the postseason on Saturday.

(36:57) The Islanders avoided an embarrassing end to their regular season losing in Washington Monday night, which dropped them out of control of their playoff destiny. But thanks to the Blackhawks win in Pittsburgh Tuesday night, coupled with the Isles win over Montreal last night in their final game, they were able to secure a spot in the playoffs. Who will the Islanders face come Monday when the postseason commences? I'll also get into the division races in the Metropolitan, Central and Pacific as teams look for home ice advantage and march on to the Stanley Cup Playoffs as the pursuit to capture the greatest trophy in sports begins next week.

(47:14) The Rays stay torrid and undefeated as they're currently 12-0, with a chance to go 13-0 today in a getaway day game vs. Boston. If so, they would match the best start in MLB history with the 1982 Atlanta Braves & 1987 Milwaukee Brewers. Can they do it? And when will this streak end? Mets closer Edwin Diaz has visions of getting back to pitch before the end of this season. What do I think about that proclamation? An update on Pirates SS Oneil Cruz ankle as he fractured it in a collision over the weekend. When can we expect him to return?

(54:57) NFL fans, the Draft is two weeks away. I have a few news and notes throughout the league where the Colts may stay put with the #4 overall pick in the draft, instead of trading for QB Lamar Jackson. Dolphins wideout Tyreek Hill will retire after his contract is up in 2025. Could it be sooner than that? Lions trade former #3 overall pick Jeff Okudah to Atlanta. And Buccaneers LB, Devin White has requested a trade as he enters the final year of his rookie contract. Will the Bucs pull the trigger on a deal as the draft nears?

Please subscribe, leave a rating and post a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Spotify, Luminary, Amazon Music and iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you'd like to contribute to the production of the podcast, please visit my Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/TheJAYREELZPodcast

Many thanks for all of your love and support.

Intro/outro music by Cyklonus.

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Sports - ProfessionalJason NazarioApril 13, 2023Sports Podcast, Sports, Sports Talk, Podcast, Podcasting, The JAYREELZ Podcast, NBA, Basketball, NBA Playoffs, NHL, Hockey, New York Islanders, MLB, Baseball, NFL, FootballComment

Rahm Rises, Koepka Falls In Bizarre Masters Weekend. T'Wolves Fighting & Limping Into Play-In. NHL Playoff Spots On The Line. Rays Start Legit? OBJ To BAL. Lamar Next?

A Master-ful podcast lies ahead as I've got plenty to share as the sports galaxy will continue to shine brightly as we get deeper into spring. On deck:

(3:13) The tradition unlike any other turned out to be a Masters unlike one we've seen in quite some time. Trees were falling, rain was teeming and having to play 30 holes on Sunday made this tournament unique, tough to watch at times and not as compelling as years past. Throughout it all, your winner was Jon Rahm as he outlasted a collapse by Brooks Koepka who led for the first three rounds as he secures his first ever green jacket. I'll review the past four days, Phil Mickelson's resurgence, Rory McIlroy's disappearance, how the LIV golfers fared over the weekend and much more as the first Grand Slam of 2023 is in the books.

(21:29) The NBA Playoffs are just about here. We have to get through the play-in tournament over the next four days first. Heading into that are the Minnesota Timberwolves, who have been fussin' and fightin' on the sidelines, players punching walls as they haven't matured since their last playoff visit a year ago. I'll touch on the four games that'll be played tomorrow and Wednesday night and shed some light on the full slate of games over the weekend to tip off the chase for the Lawrence O'Brien Trophy.

(36:41) The final few days of the NHL season has arrived. I'll go in-depth on all of the division and wild card races where my Islanders are in the thick of things, among other teams searching for a berth in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, which commences next Monday.

(48:24) Break up the Tampa Bay Rays. They've gotten off to a 9-0 start where they've dominated by outscoring their opponents 75-18, but they have played the Tigers, Nationals and A's. Is this a case of smoke and mirrors? Or is this start legit and a sign of more things to come. The Pirates have gotten off to a 6-3 start, which is great to see. Sadly, they lost their star shortstop O'Neil Cruz to a fractured ankle due to a collision at home plate. I'll also see what else MLB has to offer with teams playing well above expected (i.e. Brewers, Diamondbacks)and those playing below standards (i.e. Astros, Dodgers).

(55:08) Odell Beckham Jr. has found a home. He signed a one year deal in Baltimore to possibly join forces with Lamar Jackson, as he's seeking a trade and a megadeal. Could Jackson be lured back to the Ravens with OBJ on board? If so, does this run oriented offense need re-tooling with Beckham Jr. expected to be a huge part of their passing game?

Please subscribe, leave a rating and post a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Spotify, Luminary, Amazon Music and iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you'd like to contribute to the production of the podcast, please visit my Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/TheJAYREELZPodcast

Many thanks for all of your love and support.

Intro/outro music by Cyklonus.

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Sports - ProfessionalJason NazarioApril 10, 2023Sports, Sports Talk, Sports Podcast, Podcast, Podcasting, The JAYREELZ Podcast, Golf, The Masters, Jon Rahm, Brooks Koepka, NBA, Basketball, NBA Playoffs, NHL, Hockey, MLB, Baseball, Tampa, NFL, Football, Od, Tyreek HillComment

PGA vs LIV, Mother Nature's Wrath Headlines The Masters. UConn Stands Tall, But Competition Small? NBA Does NOT Want This 1st Round Matchup! NHL's Panthers/Oilers Storm Into Playoffs?

The sports landscape gets a face lift as we usher in another major tournament in a legendary setting to go along with everything else that's happening as I deliver the latest podcast for the masses. On deck:

(2:51) A tradition unlike any other begins today as The Masters tees off with the first major Grand Slam tournament of 2023. Not only will there be some stiff competition from both the PGA & LIV Tour (don't worry, I'll get into that.), but Mother Nature will have a big say in all of this. The weather is expected to not only drop temperature-wise (Friday's high is 79. Saturday & Sunday? 53 & 57, respectively) but the chance of rain is ranging between 70-90% from Friday through Sunday. How will the elements be a factor? Will the tournament be completed on time? Could there be a final round on Monday? The dynamic of the PGA & LIV players going at it on this course for the very first time? Intriguing subplots abound as we'll see who'll come out on top and wear the Green Jacket come Sunday. Or Monday!

(19:07) The UConn Huskies cruise to a National Championship on Monday night as they defeat the upstart San Diego St. Aztecs. The Final Four didn't match up to what took place in the first two weekends of the tournament. Which leads to the question, was the competitive field weak overall, especially when all four #1 seeds were knocked out by the Elite Eight?

(25:48) It's coming down to this. The final few days of the NBA season as teams are jockeying for position to get themselves into the postseason. The Lakers had a chance to get out of the 7-10 seed for the play-in tournament, but lost to the Clippers who hold a slight lead ahead of them and would've had an opportunity to leapfrog over their crosstown rivals. If there is one matchup that could potentially happen in the first round that the Association DOES NOT want to see, it's Golden State vs. Phoenix. I'll explain why as I uncover all of the playoff possibilities for those who are hanging in, and some who are hanging on to see if they can qualify for the playoffs.

(34:56) Two teams that are surging in the NHL and their quest, not just for the Stanley Cup Playoffs, but for home ice throughout are the Florida Panthers (#1 seed in the Eastern Conference Wild Card race) and the Edmonton Oilers (who are one point behind Vegas for the top seed out West) I'll take a look at the Central Division race as it's a three team flat footed tie at the moment (Minnesota, Dallas and Colorado all have 98 points) and a wild card race in the West which may have the Calgary Flames (currently on the outside looking in) sneak in the back door to snag a playoff berth.

(49:02) We’re one week into the baseball season and the Mets are up to their old tricks. Do I have to get into this? I’ll discuss the good start that Tampa Bay has gotten off to, while the Phillies and Mariners have stumbled out of the gate. Angels 3B Anthony Rendon received a four game suspension for an altercation with a fan in Oakland. I was surprised by the outcome. Is Rendon being used as an example by the MLB?

Please subscribe, leave a rating and post a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Spotify, Luminary, Amazon Music and iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you'd like to contribute to the production of the podcast, please visit my Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/TheJAYREELZPodcast

Many thanks for all of your love and support.

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SD St. Magic Carpet Ride/UConn Dominance Highlights Title Game. Caitlin Clark-Angel Reese Double Standard. Lakers Peaking Or Peaked? NHL's Furious Playoff Races. MLB's Opening Weekend, Over/Unders

Let us rejoice as we begin a big stretch with plenty of sports to divulge and dissect, this month and the foreseeable future. Here to deliver the first podcast of two this week as I get into all that's below.

(3:07) The National Championship Game in Men's college basketball is tonight as the upstart San Diego State Aztecs will go up against a dominant UConn Huskies team that hasn't broken out a sweat in the five games they've played to date. I'll review the Aztecs last second buzzer beating win, the pain of Florida Atlantic losing in the final second, UConn steamrolling through the to this point and Miami's poor play as they were outclassed on the big stage. Will the Aztecs magic carpet ride lead them to a title? Are the Huskies destined to run the table without the opposition posing a threat? I'll preview the Final as to who'll cut down the nets as champions of the sport. I'll also touch on what happened in the women's tournament as there was some controversy surrounding Iowa's Caitlin Clark. She's shown a lot of fire and swag up until her team lost in the final to LSU, but Most Outstanding Player Angel Reese gave Clark a taste of her own medicine by gesturing the "You Can't See Me" wave, was it right for Reese to do that? Or even Clark for that matter, earlier in the tournament? Is this a double standard?Was it classless for both of them to do this? You'll get a complete analysis of this scenario as it's caused a firestorm on social media over the past day.

(26:44) Don't look now, but here come the Lakers! Winners of 10 of 14, currently in the seventh seed out West and with a shot to go as high as six, are they peaking at the right time? How about the Timberwolves? They have been so erratic, that they lost to a tanking Blazers team AT HOME! As they try to position themselves for the play-in tournament next week. There's a jam at the bottom of the Western Conference bracket as Oklahoma City, Dallas and Minnesota are fighting for the final two spots to extend their respective seasons a week from tomorrow.

(39:21) The NHL season has eleven days to go with some intense division and wild card races coming down to the wire. We know the Bruins have won the President's Trophy, but are three wins and seven points from setting regular season records for wins and points overall. Out West, you have Minnesota, Colorado and Dallas separated by a point. (97, 96) in the Central. While Vegas, Los Angeles and Edmonton are divided by two points (101, 100, 99) in the Pacific. This is on top of what we're witnessing in both wild cards between the Islanders (as I'll share my thoughts on them), Penguins and Panthers in the East and Kraken, Jets, Flames and Predators in the West as it's coming down to the wire with just a week and a half to go.

(49:22) The first weekend is in the books when it comes to the MLB. Justin Verlander is on the IL for the Mets (are you shocked, Met fans?) I'll get into how quick some of these games have been due to the rule changes implemented before the start of the year. The Mariners lose three out of four at home (and pitcher Robbie Ray to the IL) vs. Cleveland to start their season. Kodai Senga's first start was a success for the Mets. How he's the wild card of their rotation with Verlander on the shelf? Angels 3B Anthony Rendon got involved in an altercation with a fan out in Oakland. Will there be a suspension handed down? Lastly, I forgot to mention my three over & three under win totals on Thursday's podcast so I apologize for not doing so at that time.

Please subscribe, leave a rating and post a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Spotify, Luminary, Amazon Music and iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you'd like to contribute to the production of the podcast, please visit my Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/TheJAYREELZPodcast

Many thanks for all of your love and support.

Intro/outro music by Cyklonus.

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Rule Changes, Ohtani's Future & Usual Suspects Lead Into MLB's 2023 Preview. Final Four: An Encore? Or Dud? KD's Back/Celtics Big Week. Wild's Huge Road Win. Commander Sale Means No Deal For Lamar

Let's rejoice as a baseball season begins, a college basketball tournament is coming to a close and everything in between when it comes to sports as I got you covered on all that's happening. On deck:

(3:42) After a few words of hope springing eternal, another lap around the track for yours truly, the long awaited baseball season is here! I'll discuss the top three storylines (i.e. rule changes, Shohei Ohtani & the Usual Suspects...you'll have to listen in order to find out!)heading into the 2023 campaign, breaking down the divisions, my surprises and disappointments and my World Series prediction, which may raise an eyebrow as I get your ready for the marathon that is the MLB.

(50:30) The Final Four will take place on Saturday to determine who'll become champions in college basketball. Will there be an encore to what we've seen to date? Can UConn continue to dominate?

(54:34) In the Association, Kevin Durant is back in the fold as he played his first game at home in Phoenix. Is there enough time in the regular season for KD to get ready for the playoffs? Plus, a battle out West as the T'wolves and Lakers could potentially fight for a play-in home game. The Celtics have a big few days ahead as they'll play the Bucks tonight, then the Sixers on Tuesday as they try to inch closer to the #1 seed in the East and away from the #3 seed where the Sixers reside at the moment.

(57:15) The Minnesota Wild won a big game in the Central Division as they have a little breathing room by beating the Colorado Avalanche last night. The Rangers will face the Devils as they try to catch them in the Metropolitan Division for home ice in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. I'll look at the latest with the wild card races as well, where the Islanders have put a some distance ahead of the Penguins in the East.

(59:34) We have two groups bidding for the Washington Commanders as the estimated cost could be around six billion dollars. At the moment, this does not bode well for Lamar Jackson as he's searching for a new destination, with very few teams that he can go to. Could this be a Le'Veon Bell 2.0 situation? Will he sign the franchise offer by the Ravens?

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SD St/FAU/Miami & Dominant UCONN Lead Best Tournament Ever? Mavs In Disarray Out West. NHL Playoff Races Heat Up! Lamar Wants OUT, But Where To? Key MLB Injuries & Over/Unders

An unforgettable Tournament headlines the final week of March, with lots to dissect and digest as the sports world is primed for a big month ahead. On deck:

(3:01) In a time where most pundits, personalities, etc. are prisoners of the moment, I can honestly say, this has to rank as one of the best, if not the best, NCAA College Basketball Tournament of all time. It has reached levels that we couldn't imagine or dream of with plenty of upsets, controversy, comebacks, you name it. All four #1 seeds didn't make the Elite Eight (first time that's happened) Three schools reaching the Final Four (i.e. Florida Atlantic, Miami and San Diego State) for the very first time. UCONN who's been on this stage before, but their first visit since 2014. I'll recap all of the Madness throughout the past four days and set the stage with some early headlines as I have a wild and crazy recap of what took place.

(28:11) As for the pros, the Dallas Mavericks are in a free fall out West. They've collapsed to the point where they are out of the conference play-in scenario amid getting beat back to back games by the lowly Charlotte Hornets. The discontent of the head coach, Jason Kidd. Their star player, Luka Doncic frustrated, not only with what's going on the court but in his personal life as well. And Kyrie Irving going after the fans? It's a mess down in Big D. Could they salvage this bad stretch and make it into the 7-10 seed tournament? LeBron James is back after a 13 game absence with a foot injury as they met the Bulls in LA. Patrick Beverley is up to his old tricks, but can the Lakers survive these final two weeks and make it into the postseason? Then there are the Nets (remember them?) as they battle to stay in the top six teams out East. They've been and will be without Ben Simmons (remember him?) as he's dealing with a back issue. Can they hang on and avoid being a part of an early playoff play-in?

(41:10) On the ice, things have been heating up with the divisional and wild card races in the NHL. I'll update the latest as we're less than ten games away from the conclusion of the season.

(44:51) Some big news has come down the pike over the last hour as Lamar Jackson has requested a trade to the Baltimore Ravens. Why has it come to this? Where can he go? I'll answer all of that and mention some other notable signings over the past few days.

(53:20) Baseball fans, get ready! The season is just three days away. If you're a Yankee fan, I'm sure you're not happy as another starting pitcher (i.e. Luis Severino) will be on the IL to start the season, making him the 3rd starter who'll be on the shelf as they break camp. The Phillies have lost their longtime first baseman, Rhys Hoskins to an ACL injury. Why his absence won't impact their lineup as much as you think? I'll also take a peek at the over/under win totals throughout the sport as I'll select three overs and three unders on the next podcast, with a full preview of the upcoming season that you won't want to miss.

Please subscribe, leave a rating and post a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Spotify, Luminary, Amazon Music and iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you'd like to contribute to the production of the podcast, please visit my Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/TheJAYREELZPodcast

Many thanks for all of your love and support.

Intro/outro music by Cyklonus.

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Sweet 16 Storylines, Princeton's Final 4 Chances? Houston/Texas Home Cooking? Ja's Return, Play-In Race Out West & Willis Reed Dies. NFL Free Agent Leftovers. Will WBC Buzz Carry Into Opening Day?

It's another 'sweet' podcast as I'll have plenty to share when it comes to my thoughts and feelings on all that has to do with the world of sports. On deck:

(2:48) After a brief recap of what lies ahead over the next week (i.e. MLB starting next Thursday. Another lap around the track for your humble little podcast host, April Fools Day, etc.) there's a little calm before the big storm once we turn the calendar to the fourth month of the year where there'll be PLENTY to discuss.

(3:50) In the meantime, we have a Sweet Sixteen to get into as we get to the second weekend of the NCAA Tournament. I'll have my top storylines with the two #1 seeds left (Alabama & Houston), the Cinderella’s (Princeton & Florida Atlantic) and everything in between from Gonzaga, UCLA, Michigan St., Tennessee, UConn, Creighton and so on as I'll take a look to see which teams will be the last four standing when it's all said and done, as well as, what the best Final Four and worst one could be for the network (TBS) broadcasting the game. There's some coaching news to discuss as Rick Pitino is officially the coach at St. John's. Could he bring them back to relevancy, not just in the Big East but nationwide? And Georgetown has hired Ed Cooley, formerly of Providence to take over for the departed Patrick Ewing.

(29:13) Ja Morant is back with the Grizzlies after an eight game suspension. Is this their time to get themselves on track for a deep playoff run? Karl Anthony Towns has returned after almost four months with a calf strain to keep the Timberwolves in the hunt for the play-in tournament out West. Can they creep into the top six and avoid the semi-do-or-die two game scenario? It's a log jam from the fifth through twelfth seeds in the conference, which is currently the best race in the NBA? Lastly, I cannot forget about the passing of New York Knick legend, Willis Reed at 80 years of age. To this day, him coming out of the tunnel at Madison Square Garden before Game 7 of the NBA Finals back in 1970 on a bad leg is still iconic and a revered moment in the history of sports.

(41:14) The NHL has been status quo since the podcast on Monday. It's hotly contested as we're down to the final ten to twelve games of the season, with three tight division and both wild card races still up for grabs as I'll recap the latest on the ice.

(43:26) I have some NFL free agency leftovers. The Jets have signed former Chiefs WR Mecole Hardman to a one year deal, while trading Elijah Moore to Cleveland. Is Aaron Rodgers far behind?

(45:21) With the baseball season a week away, the WBC just completed to some buzz that was unexpected. All of the talk was about the last at bat in the Championship Game between Shohei Ohtani vs. Mike Trout. Was it theater? Was it overhyped? Does anyone care? Will there be any carryover or influence into Opening Day? Astros 2B Jose Altuve will be out for at least two months after getting hit by a pitch during the Classic as they'll defend their World Series title without their leader.

Please subscribe, leave a rating and post a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Spotify, Luminary, Amazon Music and iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you'd like to contribute to the production of the podcast, please visit my Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/TheJAYREELZPodcast

Many thanks for all of your love and support.

Intro/outro music by Cyklonus.

Listen to "Sweet 16 Storylines, Princeton's Final 4 Chances? Houston/Texas Home Cooking? Ja's Return, Play-In Race Out West & Willis Reed Dies. NFL Fre" on Spreaker.

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Cinderella's Princeton/FAU. Arizona, Purdue Disappoint As Sweet 16 Is Set. Grizzlies On The Move With Ja Back? Eagles FA Comings & Goings. USA's Cakewalk To WBC Final? Edwards Tops Usman In MMA

Spring is in the air as it's officially the first day of a new season. Which also segues into the first of two pods this week as I've got you covered on anything and everything sports related. On deck:

(3:09) I have to start off with a mea culpa as my Monday podcast from last week was deleted from the podcast stratosphere. I don't know how that happened, but it also affected the order of Thursday's podcast as well. I apologize for any mix up and confusion in trying to download/listen to the episodes from last week. It goes without saying, I greatly appreciate your patience and understanding.

(5:03) This time last week, we had 68 teams on the NCAA Tournament docket. Now we're down to the Sweet Sixteen. I'll review the good (i.e. Princeton, Fairleigh Dickinson and Florida Atlantic) the bad (i.e. Duke, Virginia) and the ugly (i.e. Arizona, Purdue) as we close out the first week of the Madness and have our sights set on the next round continuing on Thursday. NOTE: While discussing Arkansas being able to hang with Kansas, I referred to them as Arizona. My apologies for the error.

(30:33) I'll stay on the hardwood and briefly go through the Association. Ja Morant should make his return after his eight game suspension. After an enormous 29 point comeback vs. San Antonio on Friday, could this be a turning point after a tumultuous few weeks for the Grizzlies? Can Memphis and Sacramento put pressure on the leaders of the West in Denver? What about the Sixers as they've leapfrogged over the Celtics and have only the Bucks ahead of them in the East?

(34:33) The NHL has been relatively low key as the Rangers did the Islanders a favor, sweeping the Penguins this weekend to where the Islanders regained the top Wild Card spot in the East. Besides that, we're just counting down these last dozen or so games to get to April and begin the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

(37:28) There were plenty of transactions after the initial wave as the NFL offseason has commenced. I'll discuss the Steelers transactions (i.e. Patrick Peterson, Isaac Seumalo and Cole Holcomb), the Cowboys bringing in a wideout (Brandin Cooks via trade with Houston) Bengals sign some reinforcements on the offensive line (Orlando Brown, Jr.) but incumbent Jonah Williams is requesting a trade. Speaking of O-Line, Texans Laremy Tunsil is now the highest paid in tackle in the sport to stay in Houston. Adam Thielen is now a member of the Carolina Panthers.

(46:00) USA is back in the WBC Final as Cuba was their latest triumph. They'll face either Japan or Mexico in the championship game. Is it me but did the US have a cakewalk of a schedule to get to this point? Jose Altuve was hit by a pitch in Venezuela's game vs. US the other day. He suffered a fractured thumb. How long he'll be out? Who knows, but could there be some possible retribution down the road?

(50:59) Leon Edwards defeats Kamaru Usman for the second time in eight months to defend his 170 pound title, but found this one more satisfying in a majority decision than a knockout in their previous bout.