Leading Off

Hockey

51 Face-off!
Overlooked or dismissed as inconsequential by the casual observer, face-offs can be the difference between a win and a loss—especially in the tight NHL playoffs
by Michael Farber

70 Saving Face
Attention Stanley Cup contenders: Want to avoid getting knocked out early? Here's a seven-point plan that assures postseason success
by Michael Farber

Track and Field
78 Off and Running
Ato Boldon's sizzling 9.86 seconds in the 100 meters served notice that he has taken dead aim at the world record and the man who holds it, Donovan Bailey
by Tim Layden

Baseball
80 Help!
Even for a catcher who's a defensive whiz, like Charles Johnson of the Florida Marlins, working with a Triple A quality pitching staff is a health hazard
by Tom Verducci

Cover
PHOTOGRAPH BY WALTER IOOSS, JR.