Brian Windhorst is, hands down, one of the best and hardest working writers in sports. His work for the Akron Beacon-Journal (and here on ESPN.com) is a must-read for me, every day, and his book about LeBron James and the Cavaliers is tremendous.

He is a great guy to know away from sports -- funny, smart, warm.

He has honored TrueHoop more than once by sitting in for me when I have been on vacation.

And at the moment, Brian Windhorst is also in the hospital and pretty sick.

Some people close to Brian have asked a small favor of TrueHoop readers: Pray. Think good thoughts ... do what you can to send good optimism and love to Brian in the hospital.

It just might help.

Thanks.