Morning Coffee! Sleepy Night For New York Sports

Good morning, New York sports fans. A dark night for New York sports teams, unless you care deeply about exhibition hockey or basketball. Sorry, but I really don't.

The lack of games does not, however, mean there is nothing to talk about here at 'Morning Coffee.' We have plenty to share as you sip your morning brew.

• The M&M Boys (Minaya and Manuel) are gone from the Mets. Thankfully. Now, the Mets need to get it right when the hire the next general manager and manager combo. Or, they risk wasting the careers of Jose Reyes and David Wright. One suggestion for the Mets -- do not re-hire Bobby Valentine. The plan is apparently to hire a GM first, then let him hire the manager. That is the right idea, and probably bad news for managerial hopeful Wally Backman.
• The Yankees start the playoffs Wednesday. Steve Lepore says, predictably, the Yankees will be getting prime television treatment. Pinstripe Alley has more on the playoff-bound Bronx Bombers.
• New York Jets running back LaDainian Tomlinson received an honor from SB Nation New York Monday, and praise from writers around the country. 
• New York Red Bulls goalkeeper Bouna Coundoul was named MLS Player of the Week.