Off the Wall Cards

Freddie is giving me nightmares!!!! From his first SI cover to HRs in 3 straight WS games this year . . .

Ready for The National?!?!?

What is going on in the hobby? Schools are out and the summer heat is already melting everyone across the country. But the weather isn't the only thing that's hot right now. Many collectors are preparing for the end of July as they will converge on ...

Tonight is the first night of the NHL Draft. While not as exciting as the NFL Draft, it does help solidify the foundation for many teams and adds finishing touches to others. This year, the Devils have the 10th overall pick - if they don't trade it for defensive help. Most mock drafts have them taking forwards, but if one player falls, I'd love to see them add Anton Silayev, a tall (6' 7"), but lean (200 lbs) defenseman out of Russia. I don't expect him to last to the Devils pick and even if he does, he probably won't be able to get to the States for a few years. Another defenseman, Zeev Buium, probably won't last to the 10th pick, either.

It looks like the Devils may be left with a choice of Cole Eiserman (who reminds me a bit of Brendan Shanahan) or Berkly Catton. Eiserman would be my preference as he carries enough body and physicality to be an effective NHL winger. Catton will probably end up being another finesse-type winger with defensive liabilities and the Devils already have enough of those players up and down the roster....

Some interesting things that may or may not happen in the NFL leading up to the draft. Let's take a look at a few of the AFC and NFC East teams...

Will the Dolphins trade Tua and make a play for one of the top QB's? In essence, resetting their salary clock for the QB position while lowing the injury threshold/risk?

Will the Patriots sign Kirk Cousins then trade down in the draft and begin the rebuild?

Will the Washington Commanders make a move up to jump up a spot to ensure they get their "franchise" QB?

Will the New York Giants move up to secure a QB replacement for Daniel Jones, draft to improve their OL, or add another skill position piece?

Free agency signings should offer some hints to the answers to the above questions. Should be an interesting time until the last week of April...

Happy Festivus to those who "celebrate." In the spirit of my effort for a 100% Positive December (Gary Vaynerchuk would be proud - but would remind that POSITIVE should be ALWAYS!!!), I shall defer airing grievances until Festivus'24...