Thrashers

By michael

February 16, 2007 04:04 PM | Link to this

Regardless of Forsbergs performance it shows the fans that their orginization is serious about contending for a cup. I think the Preds got the better end of the deal. Forsberg has his boot fixed and would not agree with the trade unless he felt he could really help the team. Forsberg has only played 40 games but has 40 pts. My prediction— he will help them to the presidents trophy and he will lead the team in playoff pts and take them to the cup finals.

By Jennifer

February 16, 2007 04:05 PM | Link to this

Are you saying we should expect Metro, Kovy and Kapanen to play together on Saturday? That has me more worried than excited.

Answers: 1. Philly got the best end of the deal. That is a huge price for a rental with a leaky roof. I think that kind of move says “we better do something or we might be unemployed come June.”

1. I think he will probably play in most of the games they have left. If they get a big enough lead to coast he might get some games off to rest up for playoffs.

2. I think Nashville looses in the 6th game of the 2nd round.

By Russ

February 16, 2007 04:11 PM | Link to this

Philadelphia got the better end of this trade because I don’t think Nashville will win the cup. This was a make-or-break trade for Nashville, and in my opinion they gave up too much for anything short of winning it all.

I think Forsberg will not miss more than 2 or 3 games the rest of the way, including playoffs. However, I think he will not be able to stay completely healthy and will play the end of the regular season and the playoffs at less than 100% and therefore not be as effective as Nashville is hoping.

It is hard to guess at this point how far Nashville will go without knowing what other teams are going to do prior to the deadline…but assuming the top contenders tweak their rosters to improve before the playoffs I would say Nashville gets beaten in the conference finals.

By Daniel

February 16, 2007 04:14 PM | Link to this

I think that it was a solid trade both ways. Nashville was a Cup Contender before the fact, getting Foppa just made it a more realistic expectation. When you have your pieces in place you can add players like a center with a gimpy foot(Forsberg) and a d-man that misses his assignments to make hits (Vish). Why? because your core guys are already in place, the guys you add are there for intangibles (leadership in Foppa’s case, and I guess “toughness” in Vish’s) Philly on the other hand, did the best thing for its team. It already has guys like Gagne, who can score, Forsberg was more of a hindrance then a help, especially when you can get, essentially, 4 players out of him, two of which might effect your lineup RIGHT NOW. Their a last place team, they can only go up.

By Cam

February 16, 2007 04:16 PM | Link to this

Nashville comes out the winner. Forsberg will be played sparingly until the playoffs where his proven leadership and experience will catapult the Preds to the finals. The organization will be saved because of the on-ice results and most significantly, the playoff revenue! Any way we could trade the entire Thrasher team for the Predators?

By ranallo10

February 16, 2007 04:19 PM | Link to this

As most trades work, both teams benefitted from this swap.

Forsberg makes Nashville an even more daunting playoff team, and if he stays healthy will definitely help lead them past the first few rounds of playoff hockey.

Philadelphia on the other hands makes out like a bandit—ffectively receiving three first round choices, and a third rounder, while giving up a player that has almost literally signed his 2007-2008 UFA papers with Philadelphia. The Flyers will be the front runners for Forsberg if he decides to return next season, so why not go get a potential top 2 line forward (Upshall), a top 4 defenseman (Parent), and two solid high draft picks.

My prediction (for what it’s worth): Nashville still finds a way to lose in the playoffs, Forsberg re-signs with Philly, and Bob will still complain that Waddell didn’t trade everybody on the roster for Forsberg back in October (when he apparently called Philadelphia’s collapse, called Atlanta’s lack of #1 center would be the demise of their playoff hopes, and called Nashville winning the West)

By Chris

February 16, 2007 04:20 PM | Link to this

Even trade. Appropriate amount of risk taken by the Preds for a player that could help them significantly.

Vokoun rather than Forsberg will be the key to how far they go. At least 4 of the other west playoff teams would go into a series vs. the Preds with a projected goaltending advantage.

Bonus Question: N/A. You just know if Forsberg came here that Rickety Groin Syndrome or equivalent would have worked its way from the crease to center ice.

By Darren

February 16, 2007 04:21 PM | Link to this

I completely agree with you that there will be many fans who will judge the trade on whether or not the Predators win the Stanley Cup and if Forsberg re-signs or not, but that is definitely not fair.

The Predators saw that they have a very strong chance of winning the Stanley Cup as any team in hockey NOW. This year.

As such, they decided to not take any chances and move on what was a soft spot, and not even a weak spot, on the team (third line production).

Now, when healthy, there’s no reason in theory they can’t go all the way.

When you have a chance to win the Stanley Cup, you seize it. That’s what they did.

Some will say they are working against recent history where the President’s Trophy winner hasn’t won the Stanley Cup since 2002, but that is also a bit of unfair criticism.

I certainly like the deal, and I think it illustrates what can happen when a team grooms their farm system, makes frugal free agent deals and shrewd trades. It allows a team to sacrifice a little more for a big piece later. Parent’s probably the key piece in the deal for Philadelphia.

As for the Thrashers and Forsberg, it certainly makes a difference how healthy he would have been, but I don’t believe they’d be any worse than they are now, so I think you could cushion Atlanta’s lead a little more.

He would presumably have made the special teams a little less weak, too.

To make the trade a little more even with Nashville’s though, if you’re going to use Coburn, you’d also have to throw in a Jordan LaVallee or someone else as well.

By Brian

February 16, 2007 04:26 PM | Link to this

Without a doubt Philly won this because they were all but guaranteed to miss the playoffs. If they want Forseberg next year they could go through the exact same process of signing an UFA as if he was on the team. Instead they pick up 2 1st rounders, a prospect that was a 1st rounder and another prospect who I think was a 3rd rounder. At seasons end they are going to be in the exact same position to get Forseberg anyway, so why not trade him for all that?

Nashville on the other can win the Cup, but who says they wouldn’t have won it without him? You will always second guess that. And if they don’t win the Cup, now you can point to all those players who just left their organization. Now if Forseberg signs with them in the offseason, you can say this trade led to that. But too much to give up. However, if you are going to make a run for the Cup, go all out.

When you judge who won, Philly is guaranteed to do better (they were going to miss the playoffs anyway, why not get all those players?), Nashville may have just given up a slew of players to do something it might have done anyway. They have to win the Cup or they come out behind.

By Jamie

February 16, 2007 04:26 PM | Link to this

Philadelphia Forsure got the better deal. Anybody who isn’t brain dead could figure that out. 25-35 games i’d say, he will play the majority of the games from here on in. And they won’t win the cup even with him so that’s why he will play no more than 35 games. Third round defeat to either Anaheim or San Jose. Tough to say but i think quite far because that would give them two very good scoring lines and the powerplay would be so much better with Forsberg. I look for Waddell to try and take Perrault from Phoenix at the deadline, i think he would fit very well with Kovy and Metro.

By Darren

February 16, 2007 04:29 PM | Link to this

I am a little frustrated by those that aren’t familiar with Nashville’s team arbitrarily saying they’ve “mortgaged the future” or even are “giving up way too much”

Scottie Upshall is a good player, but he has never elevated himself beyond a grinder, even when Nashville needed scoring before. He’s had several seasons with which to make himself a mainstay on the roster and hasn’t.

The two draft picks will almost certainly be in the 20’s, and possibly 25 or later. Thus, it’s not as if Nashville is giving away a chance at a Sidney Crosby. The picks may pan out, and they might not. But will they be for a sure Hall of Famer?

Ryan Parent, who is probably the key to the trade for Philadelphia, is a solid defenseman that did very well with Team Canada at the recent World Junior Championships. However, he’s not an assured top 2 defenseman YET. More than likely, he’ll be at least a good defenseman at the NHL level for several years.

However, Nashville has a wealth of solid young defenseman, at least three of whom will probably wind up being better than Parent. I’m not saying he was expendable by any means, but there will be a big fight for ice time in Nashville for defensemen in the next few years, and there’s no guarantee Parent would rise above the rest.

When you add all of that up, trading that for a chance to win the Stanley Cup is not a huge price.

By mb

February 16, 2007 04:41 PM | Link to this

Spot on, ranallo…both teams benefit. And no doubt you’re delighted to hear that Vigier’s almost back!

First, adding Forsberg gives the Preds three very solid lines, making them all the more dangerous in the playoffs. Big question is what to do with the lines.

The guys on the team get a huge emotional boost knowing the organization is committed to winning this year and knowing that they’ll be playing with one of the game’s great playmakers.

Poile takes advantage of opportunity. Even though the West is extremely tough this year, this is the year for him to make a push, especially with Arnott, Kariya, Timonen, and Vokoun pushing into their 30s.

Assuming a deep playoff push, the organization easily recoups its $$$ and likely boosts season ticket #s to improve its stability in Nashville.

Philly gets a dman who could end up being very, very good; a slightly underachieving forward who will likely be a 2nd liner, and two picks in what’s heralded as a mediocre draft.

Good move for the Preds (would have been mind-numbingly stupid for the Thrash), and I’ll go out on the limb and say they take the Cup…after all, it’s become a Southern thang!

By Sage of Bluesland

February 16, 2007 05:22 PM | Link to this

I couldn’t agree more, Darren—whoever even uses the term “mortgaged the future” associated with Nashville and this trade simply doesn’t understand what that phrase even means…

First-round picks beyond the top five are shots-in-the-dark, at best…Heck, even the consensus top-five is not surefire.

Nashville has something we do not—a farm system which has actually grown products for the parent club…and that’s because their GM is not ours. Thus, their trade for Forsberg is a risk well worth taking—and it sends a message to everyone, internally just as important as externally…

I just wish we had that type of leadership here in the figurative joke otherwise known as “Blueland”…Instead, we have “Five-Year Plans” and blustering about “Building through the draft!”…

Oh, and we also have zero accountability for poor performance.

By Brad

February 16, 2007 05:29 PM | Link to this

As a Thrasher’s fan who lives in Nashville… If Forsberg went anywhere but to Atlanta, I’m glad it was the Preds. I pull for the Preds, and I’m hoping for Nashville/Atlanta Cup Finals. I think Atlanta needed Forsberg worse than Nashville did for the sake of competition. However, I think Nashville needed to make a move like that because this franchise is in trouble in the Nashville area. They need more support, more from local corporations, but from the fans as well. This move shows the teams dedication to bring a championship to the city and I hope it works out for the Preds.

I’m still hoping this sets up a Nashville/Atlanta Stanley Cup matchup, but regardless, I think with Nashville already being probably the best team in the league, I don’t think anyone will stop them as long as Forsberg and the goalie Vokoun stay healthy. Preds win the cup in 6 games over the Devils (sorry, I just don’t see Atlanta making it to the Finals the way they are playing. Thrash go down in round 2)

By pondscum

February 16, 2007 05:59 PM | Link to this

I say it was an even deal.

The Preds already have 2 good scoring lines,now you put Forsberg inbetween Hartnell and Radulov,that makes 3 potent lines.

Forsberg also enhances their PP,which isn’t really all that good,they’re a better team at even-strength.

And the Preds could be the Sharks,Ducks,Wings,Flames,Canucks WITHOUT Forsberg.

For the Flyers,Parent had to be the main piece for them.Upshall hasn’t been able to crack the Preds lineup consistently for 2 seasons,and they even had him on Kariya’s line last year.He might be best a 3rd liner.Parent was buried beneath guys like Hamhuis,Suter,Weber,Klein,Franson…where would he break in at?

The 2 picks are going to be lowers,and this is supposed to be a weak draft.And draft picks are still a crap shoot.

I think the Preds atleast make the conference finals,maybe further.Alot of folks seem to forget the injuries they had last year limping into the postseason,if they avoid that….watch out!.

And I hope DW is trying to get us some help as well.

By Lee

February 16, 2007 06:13 PM | Link to this

God I hope we do something positive in Ottawa, I mean anything good.

By LAC

February 16, 2007 06:29 PM | Link to this

First off, Marian Hossa was a PERFECT CHOICE as Atlanta professional sports person of the year, a DESERVING HONOR FOR A GREAT PLAYER & PERSON !!!!!!!!!

Please resign this guy you sprit goofs, You people do not want to think how bad attendance would fall off is Hossa left town…

Nashville - Philly trade great for Nashville if the advance far… I believe they have the horses to WIN IT ALL !

And WHAT prey tell do we have…???

A three point lead, that will likely be gone wednesday morning or earlier, what with out fouth line center and waiver pickup…WOW what else can you say but FIRE WADDELL !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Craig Custance

February 16, 2007 06:55 PM | Link to this

mb — Great call on another Southern team winning the Cup. With Nashville in the other conference, sometimes I forget that’s really a southern team. I think it would drive Canadian fans crazy if another team down here won it all.

By Pucks n Snot

February 16, 2007 07:46 PM | Link to this

Great deal for the Preds. Screw Filthydeathofya - very nice to see them suffering. Detroit will probably win the Cup, but if they don’t then I hope Nashville does because that will expose Atlanta even more as a failure franchise after every other southern team besides them has either gone to or won the Cup finals. What will magnify the point will be the fact that the Thrashers not only can’t make the finals - they will continue their streak of not even being able to make the playoffs. How proud you all must be - bright future ahead down there!

By Pucks n Snot

February 16, 2007 08:03 PM | Link to this

Belkin will win. Belkin will sell. Thrasher fans will swim in their own private hell. Basille is ready. He has the dough. He’ll move that team so fast your heads will all blow. Plenty of tears down south…. Even more scowls - when the Thrashers become the Ontario Owls…..

By B. Thenet

February 16, 2007 08:10 PM | Link to this

Great deal for Nashville. They lose a busted 1st rounder, a pretty good D prospect, and a late 1st and 3rd rounder.

To be honest, Philly should have gotten more for the premier C on the trading block.

Forsberg will finish the rest of the season healthy, but I still like the Preds to bow out in the 1st or 2nd round. Goaltending and D will let them down.

However, if you take a look at the attendance and jersey sales for the Preds down the stretch…win or lose this is a great trade for the franchise.

By Brendan

February 16, 2007 08:31 PM | Link to this

I already covered this on the “Hartley, Time to Declare War” blog. But here goes.

Question #1: This is a good trade for both clubs. There’s no doubt that the Flyers, even getting one player or one pick, would be benefitting from giving up Forsberg’s services for the rest of an utterly meaningless season. Plus, they dump salary in the process. So, this is good for Philly.

So, why is it good for Nashville, when as Brian points out, they might have been able to win the Cup without Forsberg? I tell you why. There are first round draft picks and GOOD 1st ROUND DRAFT PICKS. “Good First round picks” are #1-6, or so. Ummn, did Nashville give up one of them?? No. Chances are, (and this is Question #3) Nashville will reach the Conference Finals. If they go no farther, they gave up the #27 or #28 pick in the draft. Is that utterly devastating for the Predators’ organization? Ummn, no. What about that 3rd round pick then, hmmn? It’s a “shot in the dark.” If the Preds reach the CF, we’re talking about the #88 pick, overall, in the draft. Shudder. You sure don’t want to give up that!!! LOL. Okay, Scottie Upshall. Are you as underwhelmed by him as I am? The guy’s still got plenty of potential, but he was no superstar player. And that leaves Ryan Parent. Now, that’s the big question mark. Maybe he’ll be “all that,” or maybe he could be the next Braydon Coburn. Time will tell. But I think the Flyers did well to snare Parent. Well, they “stole” him. If Forsberg comes back, he’s probably going back to Philly.

So, the answer to question #1 was: Both won. Question #2 is: I have no earthly IDEA how many games Forsberg will play. The one thing we know about that is … that we don’t know. That’s why it’s a risk. High risk, high reward. It was a risk worth taking, in my opinion, for the Predators.

Question #3: I suspect the Predators will reach the Conference Finals. I’d be surprised if they didn’t. That’s why they play the games, however. But, I don’t project Nashville as the Cup Winner this season. I very well coudl be wrong on that one, though.

Question #4: With Forsberg, I think the Thrashers definitely make the playoffs, and maybe get out of the 1st round. But they fail to reach the Conference Finals. As for giving up Coburn and pick #15-25 and pick #65-75, nothing was guaranteed there, anyway. Especially with the acumen of the current GM. Seems like a whole lot of unnecessary risk to take, to win one round of playoffs, especially when could get into the playoffs and maybe win a round without Forsberg.

I’m praising Don for not making this move. It wasn’t our time to make a move like this. For Nashville, it was a risk worth taking.

By Jsmooth

February 16, 2007 09:44 PM | Link to this

The Forsberg trade is equally beneficial to both teams. That is if you are evaluating the trade based on each teams’ PRESENT needs. Philly is getting picks to rebuild (season is lost) and Nashville is getting what they hope to be the final piece in the Stanley Cup winning puzzle. Not to mention that they feel their team is going to remain good and who cares if they have to give up the 25th-30th pick in the draft when they know they’ll be good next year? After what Carolina proved last year by adding Weight and Recchi, N’ville believes a Cup is attainable NOW! Isn’t that what every team should go after aggressively if it is seemingly within reach (future is now thinking)??

Alas, the million dollar question (or should I say 42 million or whatever the hell the cap number is)! There are franchises whose dedication to winning and championships is not on par with your best franchises of the last 2 decades (Detroit, NJ, Dallas etc). For every owner who says they want to win Cups, there is another owner who is simply out to make millions.

I firmly believe Atlanta is further away from being a championship team than a team staring “rebuilding” straight in the face. With so many aging veterans and UFA on our roster, it is fairly certain that next year’s team will look completely different — perhaps it will look a lot like the Chicago Wolves roster of today!

Perhaps DW really believes the future is bright and the young players we have such as Bourret, Sterling etc will put us on a Stanley Cup track?? Why else would he not be willing to step up and trade a couple of prospects for the talent this team needs up the middle and at the blueline?? It is painfully obvious that this cast of characters (and don’t get me wrong we have some great talent in Hossa / Kovy / Lehts etc and some solid role players like Lars / Holik and Sim) will not win us a Cup let alone one series in the playoffs.

I don’t see any harm in giving up a 1st round pick (and perhaps a 3rd or 4th) if the playoffs are within reach. If you make the playoffs, the pick you give up is somewhere between 17 and 32. As long as you need not give up 3 or 4 prospects, why not go after a 28 year C who is looking for a fresh start on a line with either Kovy or Hossa? Cut some aging veterans and let a few UFA D-men like Sutton and MacCarthy walk to free up cap space so you can re-sign the UFAs you bring in via trades?

Problem is (if you believe Bob and Don’s quotes) our management thinks we can win with these players. And now Belanger and Hamel are supposed to be the magical cure all for our woeful PK and stagnant PP. Keep drinking the kool-aid fellas cuz it aint’ gonna happen. A 6 or 7 seed and a first round exit is not what these fans are expecting. Not win the likes of the 8th place Oilers can rent Pronger and come within 1 goal of winning the Cup!

The time SHOULD BE NOW!!

By Jsmooth

February 16, 2007 10:27 PM | Link to this

Is Y Perreault really an UFA? If so, he might be a good fit here in Atlanta. But at what price? At 35 yrs of age, PHX can’t possibly expect to get what Philly got for FOPPA. Perhaps one of our UFA D-men plus a 1st rounder. Can the PHX GM possibly expect a young prospect and a 1st round pick for the aging Center? I wouldn’t trade for him unless DW thinks he has a legit shot at re-signing him to another 1 year deal in 2007-08.

By Brian

February 16, 2007 10:52 PM | Link to this

Sage, Darren, I don’t think anyone is saying that the Preds should not have gotten Forseberg, I just heard that it was too much of a price for the Thrashers to get Forseberg. Unfortunately this was an A vs. B scenario, pick only 1 winner. With that, Philly is guaranteed to win in this trade whereas Nash may or may not come out ahead. So, the edge goes to Philly. I even ended my bit by saying However, if you are going to make a run for the Cup, go all out

Again, good move for the Preds, but edge goes to Philly and the “mortgage” issue is just one factor in the whole cost/benefit analysis (what is Philly losing in all of this?). And as someone else pointed out, both teams can win in a trade, we just had to pick who we thought came out ahead. My pick is Philly for my previously stated reasons. We agree that if you have that one chance to make this year the year, go get the final ingredient.

By Brian

February 16, 2007 11:04 PM | Link to this

HAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Pucks n Snot doesn’t even have the cojones to back up his “Kitchener” claims so now he is calling his new team the “Ontario Owls”. Sorry Pucks n Snot, but Toronto is already taken and the relocation rumors have already hit Ottawa. What cities are left in that province?

By Lee

February 16, 2007 11:05 PM | Link to this

Pucks n snot, with all due respect, and keep in my mind I did say with all due respect, you are an idiot.

By Pucks n Snot

February 17, 2007 12:11 AM | Link to this

Thanks, Lee. I respect that you respect me. Since you obviously shyt your brains out with your dinner Brian, let me make it simple for you. Jim Basille - Billionare co-founder of Blackberry - wants a franchise in southern Ontario so bad he’d give his own mother for it (and I don’t even know if she’s still alive). His Pittsburgh deal fell through, which I was actually happy about, because Pittsburgh is a real sports town with real sports fans and all they ever needed was a new arena anyway. So Jim still wants a team. Where does he go? Does he wait for expansion? Screw that - aint happenin anytime soon. So he does what any hungry lion would do when he sees a sick antelope - he moves in for an easy meal. Guess what, Atlanta? YOU are the antelope! Your team is being crippled by a moronic ownership group that is horribly in over their collective heads and there is only one way out when the smoke clears - to be eaten by the Lion, baby! A quick and relatively painless death for your weakened little hockey aspirations. The NHL is doing all it can to avoid instability of any kind post lockout, and the THRASHERS ARE THE POSTERCHILD FOR JUST THAT! THINK ABOUT IT…. Almost overnight the Thrashers go from almost total obscurity with next to zero media coverage in a land unresponsive to and unappreciative of the games true appeal, to being kings of the world under a single owner with bottomless pockets (he’s going to pay for a new arena HIMSELF) and a true passion for the game of hockey, set smack dab in a metro area of more than half a million rabid puck fanatics (who technically lie OUTSIDE the league imposed 50 mile radius from Toronto & Buffalo) just thirsting for that first NHL face off! And know this also, my boy…the rest of civilization is more than unanimous in knowing that Atlanta is the worst fckng sports town in the history of EARTH. The Braves make the playoffs every year and can’t even sell out those games. Georgia Tech is a historic football school in a major conference smack dab in the middle of what is supposedly the center of the college football universe and they can’t even fill a 45,000 seat stadium! The Hawks are an abomination an may as well not exist. The Falcons have never had back to back winning seasons in FOOOOORTY OOONE YEARS, BRIAN! Thats right! You SUCK! No 2 ways about it! So wake up BIG BRY! Your hockey apocalypse is well on its way!

By Geoffrey Paul

February 17, 2007 12:13 AM | Link to this

Jamie, I totally agree about Perrault. Yesterday I told Bob I was upset when I saw that Phoenix had traded Comrie b/c he was the guy I thought we should have been targetting for a trade from the beginning. However, what really chapped me in the offseason was when we signed Rucchin instead of Perrault. Rucchin was signed to be responsible defensively, give us increased strength up the middle, and win face-offs. Perrault does all of those things AND HE CAN SKATE. DW really talked him up a few years ago and pushed hard to try to sign him before he eventually went North and took the home town discount. I thought for sure he would be someone DW would have targetted once he became available. Instead we signed Rucchin and as I recall (I’m not someone who looks things up prior to blogging, so let me know if my memory is failing me) Perrault sat around unsigned for a significant period of time. Now, if we trade for him, I will be happy to have him (ecstatic actually), but it will really make me steamed at the same time b/c we could have had him for nothing but the cost of the contract in the offseason!

BTW, I said it yesterday, I think the Preds are now the Cup favorites. Calgary still doesn’t have enough scoring- ultimately I think Conroy has lossed to many steps and won’t get them over the top, and Kiprisoff (sp?) and Iginla can’t do it alone. I think Jiggy is too much of a headcase in Anaheim. Plus, the playoffs are all about emotion and if you have ever been to a game at the Pond you know that there is ZERO emotion in that rink, and I think that will ultimately do them in- despite having one of the best blue lines in NHL history. San Jose doesn’t have enough strength between the pipes to make up for their skaters’ definciency compared to the Preds. Forsberg is a WARRIOR. The man played with a ruptured spleen for crying out loud. He is one of the best leaders in the game, both for his skill and his toughness. Philly is a winner in this trade simply b/c they had NOTHING to lose and everything to gain by making a deal- any deal. But the goal in sports is to win- and Philly still won’t be doing that for a while, whereas, for the reasons stated above, I think the Preds will win the ultimate prize this year, and that makes them the winners of this trade. If they don’t win the Cup, then I would say the trade is even, b/c I just don’t see any way the Preds don’t at least get to the Conference Finals, and the excitement and revenue generated from that run will change the course of that franchise.

By Pucks n Snot

February 17, 2007 12:21 AM | Link to this

Hmmmmmm….probably not the best time after that rant, but is anyone else starting to think that Pittsburgh is capable of winning it all - THIS year? They are killing all in their path right now….wouldn’t THAT be a great story with all they’ve been through?

By thrashersfan

February 17, 2007 12:30 AM | Link to this

Guys! Whenever someone comes on here like “Pucks n Snot”, never give them the satisfaction of a response. Just ignore them and they’ll go away.

By ATLSportsFan

February 17, 2007 12:32 AM | Link to this

I think it’s a good trade for both teams. It was useless for Philly to keep Peter and Nashville maybe saved their franchise with this move. How can you be the best team in the NHL and no one is there for their games? If Nashville doesn’t win the cup or at least get to the finals then give the edge to Philly but I love this move by the Preds. They have just put all of their chips on the table. If the fans in Nashville do not respond, then you will be talking about the Kansas City Predators starting with the 2008-2009 season.

By Geoffrey Paul

February 17, 2007 12:35 AM | Link to this

Pucks n Snot- you are persona non grata on this blog, and I think that speaks to the fear we have (well I have) as to the truth of your statements. Our ownership group IS an embarrasment. I think that Belkin WILL win. Furthermore, I think that Belkin probably already has contingency sale plans, he wants to be an NBA owner and couldn’t give 2 $hits about hockey. Basille DOES have bottomless pockets, and he DOES have every intention of doing whatever is necessary to get a team. I don’t think the fact that the Thrash have a 20 year lease with Phillips means squat. However, what I hang my hat on is that the NHL WANTS HOCKEY IN ATLANTA. It is already a top 10 media market in the US, and it is growing extremely fast. Sorry, but the league makes more money in the States than in Canada- for EVERYTHING (merchandise, media revenue, etc.)- plus the exchange rate gives any team here a 10% or so financial advantage. I know this means nothing to Mr. Blackberry or Belkin, but it means plenty to the NHL. I’m hoping that the league will pressure him to get a team in some other fashion than raiding a team in a top 10 and growing media market in the Southern USA- a geographic area the league has spent the last 10 years trying to penetrate. And BTW, Le Thrash are one of the anchors of a new regional (several states) sports channel, SportSouth, so to say that the boys in blue get zero media coverage is more than a little inaccurate.

On an unrelated note- let’s stop mentioning Bourret. I know its early, and I hope I’m wrong, but I think he is already a bust. It sure seemed all offseason long that DW was setting up the roster on a silver platter for Bourret to step in and be counted on offensively. Then he pulls little kid crap in Traverse City and feigns injury to cover up poor performance (pure conjecture on my part), looks terrible in camp despite being given every opportunity to succeed, goes down to Chicago and can’t crack the lineup at the beginning of the season, and I don’t know about you guys but I haven’t read ANYTHING positive about his play down there this year. It is a situation that really feels like he is a player who is content to get his one big pro paycheck and then pack it in and ride off into the sunset, rather than do the hard work necessary to be successful as a pro. Prove me wrong Alex. Please.

By Tony C.

February 17, 2007 02:08 AM | Link to this

I just wanted to know if anyone had any curent video of him (Bourret)…this guy Sterling has shown some flashes of ability in the minors, perhaps we’ll see him sooner than later.

as far as trades go, what do yall think the chances of Le Thrash going for Smolinski? He’s sure to be a “reasonable” re-sign this summer-because he’s going to be 35-36 years old next season…Tyler Arnason’s a UFA this summer as well as Turgeon in Denver…truth is, I think the Fopa deal just sent things way way over the “close enough to reasonable for pro sports deals” threshold. I mean would you really give up 1st round pick for Smoke? Howabout your 1st round pick and Coburn for Turgeon??

Just looking at the UFA’s at positions of need for our guys…it doesn’t look good. Unless DW is ready to deal Moose to a team that’s not quite sold on their goaltending situation…say Toronto? Their GM is not the best, which is odd considering that Toronto is supposed to be the center of all things hockey…I wonder how DW would go over in T-Dot??? I forget their guy’s name but he’s really not that good (Don’t believe me? go look at his UFA signings since the rule change-Hal Gill for 2+M a year? sweet) anyway I wonder if we could maybe get someone from them-they have indicated that they will be sellers-there’s been rumblings they might even move Sundin (which would pretty much put the local poplulace into “burn the castle” mode) so who knows?

I think perhaps we had all just send Niko Kappanen as much positive mental energy as we possibly can.

Cuz there really ain’t much out there in the way of centremen.

LET’S GO BLUE !!!

By Dave

February 17, 2007 07:47 AM | Link to this

If Forsberg stays healthy the Preds are a force to be dealt with. Very simple. They are as good as the Avs were when they won the Cup with Forsberg just a few years back.

By Jsmooth

February 17, 2007 09:39 AM | Link to this

Does anyone here think they understand why Hartley is not afraid to tinker endlessly with the forward combos but he won’t “sack up” and fiddle with the defensive pairings?

I understand keeping Sutton with Havelid (they have had good chemistry in the past), but why not try Hnidy with Devo and Mac with Exelby? Hnidy and Devo could prove to be a real terror on the pinch-in with some offensive savvy to light the lamp. Plus, Hnidy skates well enough to get back in transition. I like the idea of Devo hanging back at the point with a rotating forward while Hnidy dives in for a chance in the slot once in awhile. Yes, Shane does make some mistakes, but who doesn’t on this team??

If nothing else, I think the bottom pairing of Shane and Steve should play more as they have the best combined +/- of any pairing and it gives Sutton and Havelid a chance to rest a bit more so they’re more effective in attacking on the PK.

Oh yeah, nevermind, we don’t know how to attack on the PK!! What happened to the team who used to spring Lars and Hoss for short-handed opportunities almost regularly??

Perhaps Vigier is that important to our team’s PK success (sorry ranallo)!

By Stuck n Pots

February 17, 2007 10:19 AM | Link to this

Pucks, tonight when you’re watching your Wings face off against Phoenix (former and future Winnipeg franchise?), look behind your bench. Rub your eyes, then look again. If you STILL see Scotty Bowman back there, call your doctor. And if you see #19 take the ice, have your grandmother pour you some warm milk and call 911.

Sadly, your guys won’t be playing Chicago, St. Louis, or Columbus in the playoffs, so look for a repeat of the last two years. The Wings record against Anaheim, San Jose, Edmonton, and Vancouver isn’t nearly so good. Oh, and you’re the oldest team in the league…I think they’ve peaked too early and may need a nap soon. Great regular season, disappointing postseason. Don’t worry, we understand…we have the Braves down here.

But the good news is that you’ll be available to join us at the inaugural Thrashers Make It To The Playoffs celebration and golf tournament in late April! You can leave the snow and see what spring is supposed to look like.

By mb

February 17, 2007 06:24 PM | Link to this

Tony, I think Smolinski would be a decent fit here, and probably at a “reasonable” cost.

Though ranallo will likely give me grief, among this summer’s FA centers worth scouting are: Gomez, Datsyuk, Comrie, Briere, Zubrus, Lombardi (CGY), and Koivu (MIN).

On the D side, there are a lot of quality dmen hitting free agency this summer. Among the tops, IMHO, are: Pitkanen, Hannan, Philips (OTT), Preissing, Numminen, Whitney, Ballard, Schultz (MIN), Markov, Leopold, Sydor, Rafalski, Lukowich, Salo (VAN), Krajicek (VAN), Timonen, Brewer, and Sarich.

Before scoffing at some of the bigger names, check out the team’s budget situation…clubs are going to have some very difficult decisions to make with these players. Clubs that are willing to push the market a bit may be able to snatch a premium player, albeit at a premium price. I would not mind it one bit if DW overpaid a little for a real shut-down dman who could also pilot the PP.

The real purpose of this exercise, though, is to gain some perspective at what will be available for next year as we consider the wisdom in trying to select from the slim pickings for this season.

By Brendan

February 17, 2007 06:56 PM | Link to this

MB, I agree we need help on the blueline for this and next season. But philosophically, shouldn’t this help be down in the minors? I mean, that’s the whole purpose behind the draft. Coburn could be a bigger factor next year. And allegedly, supposedly, Valabik will make the roster. These guys were high 1st round picks. It’s time for our drafting to kick in and help us out.

We shouldn’t continually look towards FREE AGENCY to solve all our woes. That’s how I see it, anyway. Now, if a FREE AGENT expresses interest in coming to Atlanta, and he won’t break the bank, then obviously Don should consider it. But I am more than a little bit “tired” of signing “30-something” year old free agents, or graybeards, to mask the deficiencies of our farm system.

I want to see what Coburn and Valabik do. They’re young! I want our club to get YOUNGER. It’s supposed to be YOUNG. We’re a 7th year expansion team, that’s never drafted worse than 12th position. We should be among the youngest teams in the league.

By mb

February 17, 2007 07:22 PM | Link to this

I couldn’t agree more with you, Brendan, but I would take a slightly different tack.

On defense, I would go ahead and spend on a proven top 1 or 2 dman. Boosts confidence, allows you to put Havelid as the lead on the 2nd D pairing, and hopefully proves to be a mentor to the younger talent, such as Coburn and Valabik. Bring the young guys back into camp, pressure the current roster, and give the kids every opportunity to make the team.

I’m slightly less bullish on bringing in a top center, though I do consider that a significant weakness of the team. Metro’s been a pleasant surprise and Holik has his role. If we’re lucky enough to rid ourselves of Kapanen and Mellanby retires (really like him, but he’s just not effective enough), then we have spots open for the young guys to battle over. This allows you to either move Rucchin to the 4th line or move him out of town.

All that said, we have room for the young talent to push themselves onto the team. Sorry, I kind of lost my train of thought and now have to rush out to dinner.

By Brendan

February 17, 2007 07:54 PM | Link to this

MB, how do you feel about converting wingers to centers? I think it’s something to at least consider. Also, we’ve got Bourret, Little, LaVallee, and Sterling in the system. If these guys could actually make the leap next year, we’d be a lot younger. Yes, there’d be “growing pains,” but those are unavoidable. I’d at least like to SEE what that looks like. If it’s an utter failure, demote ‘em back to Chicago and explore other options.

By Bob

February 17, 2007 09:40 PM | Link to this

Brendan, it’s pretty much consensus that Valabik isn’t too hot. That’s from Thrasher people too. Coburn is their golden child, and we’ve seen what he can(t) do.

There’s nothing down there, it’s all be Waddelled. We need a new GM to come in this summer, blow it up, and start over around Kovy, Hossa, and Lehtonen.

By mb

February 17, 2007 10:23 PM | Link to this

Brendan, it seems to me like there are more players who struggle with that kind of a switch than succeed, but I can’t pretend to be anything of an expert at it. Of the prospects you mentioned, Bourret got off to a slow start and seems to need on his work ethic and his defense, but has shown some good offensive skills. I think he’ll really have to push it into high gear to have a chance to stay here next season.

Little has played well, but I can’t imagine he’s ready for another couple of years…I hope I’m wrong on that one.

Sterling’s coach thinks he’s ready. Sounds like he works his tail off and his small size hasn’t been as much of an issue as they expected.

The word on LaVallee is that he’s mature beyond his year and is projected as a checking line forward in the NHL.

To your point, I like giving the young guys a shot. I thought Haydar represented himself very well during his short stay and while Bob and a number of others here were unimpressed with Coburn, I saw some good potential and have to say that I felt he played no worse than any of the other Thrasher dmen during that stretch, except for maybe Hnidy.

I’d love to see how he and the rest of the D would respond to having a real #1 guy around to give them some leadership, and maybe a defensive coach that isn’t a talent mauler.

There is some talent down there, but it’s not quite the bounty we’d all like. I’ve seen us ranked as the 13th ranked prospect pool, with some good talent but all of the top guys having question marks around them.

Sorry for the long post…much more than you asked.

By Brendan

February 17, 2007 10:52 PM | Link to this

No apologies for long posts, MB. Long posts are fine, as long as they convery good points. Your did.

I tried to be patient with our farm club. But (poster) Bob may have a good point. Hasn’t Waddell had his chance? Shouldn’t a farm system, 7 years later, be “all set to go” whenever we need them? Picks made in 2000, 2001, and 2002 should all be here! No excuses. In those years, Atlanta picked 2nd, 1st, and 2nd again, in each of ALL of those rounds of those respective draft years.

Ya know? I can’t be alone in pointing that out. Where are the latter round picks from those years??

By mb

February 18, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this

I consider myself rather patient, at times too patient, and have to agree that I have expected more from our farm system. Outside of our top picks, Waddell and his scouting team haven’t exactly set the league on fire. And with the success in our minor league affiliates, you would think that it’s not at the developmental level where we’re failing. But then again I’ve never run a hockey organization.

It’d take me awhile to really sit down and figure out what returns, if any, we’ve received from each round. But in terms of players currently on our roster, it’s not too impressive…’99 8th rounder X; ‘01 first pick Kovy; ‘02 second pick Kari; ‘02 30th pick Slater. Our only only draft pick that’s having an impact as an NHL player is ‘00 second pick Heatley.

Out of the 78 total picks that began with Patrik Stefan, there are 4 that hit the ice as Thrashers each night. Sigh.