A program of measured but constant evolution has made the Cardinals a model of consistent excellence, and their latest bid to stay ahead of the game is bringing a heat wave to St. Louis

No player has taken a bigger step forward this season than forward Paul George, which is why even without their best scorer, the tenacious Pacers are a credible threat to the Heat

The NHL'S sun-belt strategy hasn't always worked (just look at Phoenix and Atlanta ... er, Winnipeg), but it was been boffo in the golden state, where the teams are strong and the talent runs deep