AJC > Sports > Thrashers > Blog > Archives > 2007 > April > 17 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USNeeded: Big game from big players
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I think Bobby Holik put it best this morning — the Thrashers one-game season starts tonight. A loss, and it’s over. The team was pretty loose today, but as Jon Sim pointed out, they were also a little more business-like. This is a focused team that desperately needs a win, and they have to do it in front of a group of fans Holik called the best sports fans in the world.
It’s going to be loud, but more important than that, Rangers coach Tom Renney now has the ability to shake Jaromir Jagr from the Holik line with final line changes. There is even talk of double shifting Jagr, so that might be an interesting aspect for tonight’s game, it’ll be a chess match that’s for sure.
Steve Zipay at Newsday had a great line from Renney when he asked about using the home-ice advantage to free Jagr from Holik. Here was Renney’s response to Zipay - “Bob [Hartley] reads,” he said. “You can speculate, I’ll just leave it at that.”
The goaltending situation for the Thrashers continues to be a hot topic up here. Larry Brooks points in his column in the New York Post that Hartley never had goalie decisions to make in Colorado because of Patrick Roy, perhaps questioning Hartley’s decision to start Lehtonen. Brooks wrote “Atlanta will be switching back to Kari Lehtonen even though he left acres of the net at which to shoot in the 4-3, Game 1 defeat and was benched for Game 2 in favor of Johan Hedberg who was magnificent.”
Wow, acres of net.
Hartley said yesterday that the goalie switch will be the only lineup change. The lines looked the same, with Mellanby skating with the Chuks, although we saw a lot of Sim in that spot in the third period last game, and wouldn’t be surprised to see it again.
Don’t be surprised to see some personnel changes in the power play. We saw some of Dupuis on the PP last game, and there were some different looks at practice on Monday. They need to do something to get it started — Keith Tkachuk said today that it’ll all start with more shots from the point, then better efforts on the second and third rebound.
But the bottom line for tonight was summed up by Hartley as he walked away from the media scrum this morning. He said, the big guys have to be the big guys. Kari Lehtonen is going to need to respond with a big game, Marian Hossa’s scoring is desperately needed, Ilya Kovalchuk will need to continue to play well, the same goes for Keith Tkachuk. The Thrashers need top performances from their top players. It’s that simple.
Comments
By HockeyDawg
April 17, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the update from the morning skate, CC. I’m really surprised BH is still going w/ Mell on the Chuk-Chuk line. I’m thinking Sim would be a better fit there, and maybe bring more energy to that line. Mell’s main contributions right now should be in the locker room and on the PP. Speaking of which, we’ve got to figure out a way to get the puck on net on the PP without 14 passes! Work it down low, get some bodies in front, and put the puck on net!
Let’s hope BH’s decision to go w/ Kari works. Lehts has responded well when he’s been benched other times this year, so let’s hope he does the same tonight & stands on his head. I was also wondering if we might see JPVJ instead of Slater, who’s been pretty invisible so far in the series. He might bring a different dimension to that 4th line, while being able to help out on the PK, giving Hoss more time to rest.
Bottom line, we’ve got to generate more scoring chances. Don’t be so worried about big hits. Worry more about getting traffic in front of Lundqvist, and fire the puck on net!!! Don’t give up, gang! We win this one tonight & we’re right back in this thing.
GO THRASH!!!
By Buzilla Baby Blues
April 17, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this
Amen brother…
We need a win tonight like a crack head needs a hit from that sweet sweet pipe…
By JayBird
April 17, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this
Let’s hope the big boys show up because if they don’t, they will all be on the golf course Thursday morning. Please, Andrea Sutton, play smart tonight and look before you pass. I think the boys will be fired up and relaxed tonight, get back to playing our game and win 3-1.
By Russ
April 17, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this
I hope that’s not a direct quote from Holik…”a loss and it’s over”. I would like to think the team wouldn’t quit even if they were down 3-0 in the series, but obviously the odds would be astronomical. This is as close to a must win as it gets, let’s hope they come out flying. I’m feeling pretty good about their chances tonight…these teams just seem too evenly matched for this to turn into a short series.
GO THRASHERS!!!!!!!!!!
By Craig Custance
April 17, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this
JayBird - Let’s not forget that the team also seems to play well with their backs against the wall, so you might be right about your prediction.
By Hnisy's Knights
April 17, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this
Craig, nice piece on Kozzy today. Very well written. Hopefully he steps it up tonight as well. The key to tonights game is very simple. Score first, build up a lead, and hold it. The Thrash play so much better when they have a 2 or 3 goal lead to work with. I have a feeling tonights game will be a low scoring, puck-possession type of game. The team that scores first will probably win this game. As far as Kari goes, I think he steps it up tonight and has an awesome performance. However, he should be pulled if he gives up 3 goals. I don’t think he will. I’m a bit of a numbers nerd, so here’s what I came up with today…
This season, the Thrash are (8-3-1) on Tuesday games. On the road on Tuesdays they went (4-3), including a 5-4 win in OT at NY Rangers on 11/28/06.
On Wednesdays, the Thrash went (4-3-2), including (2-0-2) on the road.
Sounds like the numbers are in our favor…
I pick Le Thrash, 4-2.
By Bob
April 17, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this
Brooks was definitely layin on some hyperbole with the acres of net comment, but you sound suprised. Lehts was way worse than just that 4th goal he Leht in, and Moose let 1 goal in total, only because Hoss lost Shanny in the slot. It’s mind boggling that Coach would pull Hedberg and put Kari back in.
Nice to hear that they switched up the PP some, that will help. Let’s take Havelid off the point and get Dupuis back there, just go with one dman, Zhitnik, on the PP.
Any word on who the refs are for the game tonight?
So, who wins tonight?
I was confident in Game 1, I felt we matched up well and would win a tight one. I was confident Game 2 that we’d take that game, all the way up until that goal with 4 minutes left.
My confidence is gone in Lehtonen, I expect to lose tonight and even voted honestly saying Rangers win on the poll.
Conclusion? Obviously the Thrashers will win tonight behind a big game from Kari and 2 PP goals. Go Thrashers
By Hnidy's Knights
April 17, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this
oops… I mis-spelled my name…
By Buzilla Baby Blues
April 17, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this
Keep sharp objects away from Bob…
Lehts will make a believer out of you yet
By Russ
April 17, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this
My prediction for tonight: The Thrashers fall behind 2-0, but rally to keep this series interesting and win 3-2 (possibly in OT).
GO THRASHERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By JayBird
April 17, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this
I just believe we were too fired up playing at home, trying to rip the Ranger’s heads off. Not that I don’t want Avery beheaded but that isn’t our game. We need to clog the middle and put the puck on net. And not just from out defensemen, the wings need to shoot and good things will happen. And on the powerplay, please, don’t run the Kovalchuk slapshot play constantly. Get the puck to Hossa or Kozlov by the goal and let them distribute it. Tkachuk needs to be there to clean up.
By Rawhide
April 17, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this
Nice stuff CC,….thanks for the update. It is indeed BIG-BOY time.
There will me a small group of Thrasher bloggers at Taco Mac @ Lindbergh Center if any are wishing to hang…..
On a serious note: I know others have asked,…I will too……GAVAHOKIE - If you can, check in and let us know how you/family are. Simply tragic what happened up there yesterday.
Thoughts and prayers…
GO THRASHERS - SILENCE THE GARDEN!!
By BAF
April 17, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this
Prediction:
We come out smokin and lead the entire game.
Thrash 5 Rags 2
By Hnidy's Knights
April 17, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this
Man, Schultz gave me a good flashback of that Game in MSG in 02. That was awesome to see Snides step up to Lindros! If I remember correctly, I think he scored a goal in that game as well (possibly his first ever?).
We’re gonna take this game tonight bluelanders, and take that momentum right into Wednesdays game.
On Friday at Philips, the series will be tied 2-2.
I BELIEVE…
By Craig Custance
April 17, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this
Russ — Holik said it was a one-game season. The one loss and its over is from me.
Hnidy and everyone else from the last blog - thanks for the comments on the Kozlov piece.
Rawhide — Have a beer for me at Taco Mac. If the Thrashers get knocked out, we’ll all be watching the playoffs at the bar.
By Brian
April 17, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this
Craig - too bad you can’t join us, I imagine you are in NY covering the game. caveman22 said he is still going to save the last dance for you, not sure what he means by that…
By Tom
April 17, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this
Craig
What, the AJC will not send you out on the road for the rest of the NHL playoffs? What slackers… lol
You deserve to get the press pass and do the grand tour.
By seniuk27
April 17, 2007 4:44 PM | Link to this
Lets rally and hope for the win tonight.
THESE COLORS DON'T RUN!!! GO THRASHERS!!!!!By michael
April 17, 2007 5:16 PM | Link to this
Lets go thrashers! Kovy will step up big time. Take it to 7 and lets win this series.
Lord Stanley, we beseech you to let the Thrashers turn things around in the playoffs. Thank you.
By B. Thenet
April 17, 2007 5:20 PM | Link to this
Keeping Mellanby on the Chuk Line??
Wow, I wonder what series Hartley has been watching.
Sim gets on that line and Ilya scores almost immediately…enough said.
By Brendan
April 17, 2007 5:29 PM | Link to this
This is it, boys. First playoff win in Thrashers history must be tonight. Period, the end. Winning a token tomorrow won’t cut it.
By RUMOR
April 17, 2007 5:43 PM | Link to this
This just in from John Kincade of 680 The Fan. He is in NY and stated from a reliable source that the court decision between the Spirit & Belkin is coming soon. His source told him that if Belkin wins, he will keep the Hawks and put the Thrashers up for sale immediately. If the Spirit win, they have a deep pocketed investor already lined up who will take over 40% of the ownership.
By storstark
April 17, 2007 6:06 PM | Link to this
Rawhide, I sense the hockey gods are angry. What must we do to appease them?
I’m relieved that Belkin says he’ll sell. I was only worried that he would try to keep them. I don’t anticipate a problem for them finding a buyer. I can think of a couple of potentially good owners that would be interested…and no, none of their last names are Blank. Just hope nobody steps up with thoughts of moving them to KC or Vegas…
By kracker
April 17, 2007 6:47 PM | Link to this
CC you there? Paper says Thrash are on Sports South but they are doing the darn Braves. Will they be on VS or is it just on CI? My on-air TV listing says Pens-Sens on VS. Can it really be there’s no local playoff coverage tonight!!????
By kracker
April 17, 2007 7:15 PM | Link to this
Found it on FOX Sports, channel 35 on Charter cable…we are already down 0-1
By BG33Brown
April 17, 2007 7:35 PM | Link to this
kraker, i hope you didn’t find it. This is embarassing. We haven’t done anything but stand around.
By crunk
April 17, 2007 7:40 PM | Link to this
3-0 in the first….FORE! Thanks for coming Thrashers, four and out.
By B. Thenet
April 17, 2007 7:43 PM | Link to this
Nic Havelid has 2 assists on the night, and his lack of effort vs. Nylander on the 1st should count as a 3rd.
What a shameful performance by the team thuse far.
By dj
April 17, 2007 7:43 PM | Link to this
Havelid is a disgrace. Hossa is playing like a turd. Bye Hartley. If the team was focused this morning I would hate to see what the score would be with a unfocused team.
By JEidson
April 17, 2007 7:46 PM | Link to this
worst 1st quarter of year—can you say sweep—we have not chance—college sports rock—all professional sports teams can stick—high pay no heart—atlanta fans you got hosed again—I attended game 2 —lucky we only got beat 2-1—this will get ugly tonight 5-6 to 1 —poor showing—Atlanta pro sports sucks—can’t wait until opening of college football—Go Dogs—Heart & class—
By russian
April 17, 2007 7:51 PM | Link to this
OK it is over. See you next year. Summer vacation is coming at Wednesday. S**. I can not believe, our team just disappear. So sad. ;=(
By Crunk
April 17, 2007 7:52 PM | Link to this
Too bad we wont get to hear “LET’S GO RANGERS!” in blueland (LOL) again.
By pblsn
April 17, 2007 7:59 PM | Link to this
is it OK now for even the real fans to officially give up?
By faceoff
April 17, 2007 8:02 PM | Link to this
It really seems like we are playing a different game then the regular season. To hung up on match ups and a “playoff style” of play. At this point I’d go back to not worrying about anything except playing our game, roll the lines - try to get the players into the “regular season” flow. Why not it can’t be any worse than that period.
By Bob
April 17, 2007 8:04 PM | Link to this
Lehtonen Lehts in a softie 31 seconds into the game energizing the whole crowd, the Rangers, and putting our guys on their heels before they can even start the game.
We’re then scrambling everywhere, and Kari lets in two more while woefully out of position. How he didn’t pull Lehtonen after the 2nd one is further mind boggling. I assume he’ll start Hedberg to begin the 2nd period, or mabye not since the game and series is now over, might as well get Kari the experience.
See ya, Bob. Nice knowing you, but you deserve the door for this brain dead decision not to start Moose again tonight.
By JEidson
April 17, 2007 8:08 PM | Link to this
Give up real fans—Pro sports suck—High paid athletes are a disgrace to the true sport—Thrashers were never in it—Anyone want to bet —sweep —and we may not score—haha—Hartley gave this away with the goalie change—poor coaching and the team did not rally around the change—we have can’t score if we had an open net-Never again will i pay for a ticket to watch pro sports—
By pblsn
April 17, 2007 8:09 PM | Link to this
in the words of a good friend of mine: “You can’t stage a great comeback unless you’re really far behind.” We’ll see.
By JEidson
April 17, 2007 8:10 PM | Link to this
power play again no score—we suck—-
By B. Thenet
April 17, 2007 8:10 PM | Link to this
Has anyone asked Hartley why Mellanby is still on the PP unit?
I don’t care what letter is on his chest, he has been terrible on the PP all season. The man has no business being out there.
By Thrash
April 17, 2007 8:22 PM | Link to this
After seeing Lehtonen tonight, I may suit up and be a goalie, doesn’t look that tough. You stand there, let people shoot at you and let them score.
By Tom
April 17, 2007 8:26 PM | Link to this
Well, they finally called Hossa’s name. Of course it was because he wasted a powerplay on a cheap shot.
As they say, Hockey is all about heart. Are we the tin man?
By Sage of Bluesland
April 17, 2007 8:28 PM | Link to this
Here I am at work listening to the game on the radio—and am thankful I’m not watching this embarrassment and utter disgrace…The AJC was absolutely correct, “DO YOU BELIEVE IN DEBACLES???”
Yes, I do…As long as our incompetent GM Don Waddell is at the helm, I will expect nothing but his bluster, unmet expectations, and inferior results…
Keep on waving the wittle flags, Bluelanders! Wake up, for once, and see what’s going on in front of your eyes…
By dj
April 17, 2007 8:30 PM | Link to this
Bob, I don’t know how much hockey you have played (probably none) but when three players don’t break up a pass to a guy coming in wide open on the wing. It’s not a softie. It’s a good shot and bad defense. The player who should be blamed the least is Lehts.
By yellowjax
April 17, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this
It looks like the few faithful here are the only ones who “Believe”. The Thrashers obviously don’t “Believe” in themselves. What a pitiful performance. This team looks incredibly ill prepared to be on the ice representing the Southern division.
By R. Stroz
April 17, 2007 8:51 PM | Link to this
Did the entire team go out and get drunk last night? Which team is Sutton playing for? Looks like leaving Moose in would have been a better idea. Hartley has changed to many lines when all he needed was one change, Sim for Rat.
By russian
April 17, 2007 8:51 PM | Link to this
Please stop a Game. It is so painful. Drop a Towel, Game OVER. See you next year.
By Crunk
April 17, 2007 8:51 PM | Link to this
Dear Rangers,
Please take us to the woodshed and put us out of our misery.
Thanks,
Thrashed-ers
By russian
April 17, 2007 8:52 PM | Link to this
And Please somebody start to look new Coach, because Bob is horrible
By russian
April 17, 2007 8:53 PM | Link to this
I am turn off FSN and watch Ottawa and Pittsburgh, more intersting Action
By faceoff
April 17, 2007 8:53 PM | Link to this
To say that it is hard to watch is the understatement of all time. It is hard to even comprehend this performance. Jagr skates around our defense like it wasn’t there, he has truly made our skaters look like juniors or maybe better said seniors.
The only kudos I can give is to Dupree and Holik. At least they have been in the game throughout the series.
By Rutuger
April 17, 2007 8:59 PM | Link to this
Yikes… looking like a few six year-olds skating on a pond for the first time. Just getting all-out reamed on all fronts for three straight games.
I mean sure, the playoffs are tough—but to not even show up at ALL? This was a pathetic effort at best. At least it will be over soon.
By Trashers
April 17, 2007 9:02 PM | Link to this
Forfeit game 4, I’d hate to see the locals win it and then get spanked at home in game 5 to lose it all.
By Sage of Bluesland
April 17, 2007 9:15 PM | Link to this
NO—the title of this thread by our esteemed beat-writer should be—
NEEDED: A NEW GM (who actually has a clue as opposed to bluster about ‘building through the draft’ and ‘five-year-plans’)
Stop subsidizing the utter incompetence!!!
By Jay Bird
April 17, 2007 9:17 PM | Link to this
Absolutely unbelievable! Nice decision starting Kari! Even the most novice fan realized Moose should have started tonight. This game is an embarassment and just keeps getting worse. Ilya, Slava, Tkchuk,and Belanger in the box at once…that’s ridiculous. I am sure I will get slammed for this but I almost hope we lose tomorrow night so we don’t have to see the Ranjerks celebrate on our ice Friday night. I still love the Thrashers but damn, this is hard to watch!
By New Yahker
April 17, 2007 9:26 PM | Link to this
First, gahhhden? that’s a boston accent, we’re from new york and we pronounce our r’s. but i dont expect much from people in atlanta anyway. now you’re team has stooped to dirty play and cheap hits as your season winds to a close. kovalchuk cried like a little baby on his way back to the locker room. your city is such a horrible sports town that you never deserved to win this series. and your team’s dirty play has only reinforced your unworthiness. at least you guys can go back to not caring about your teams again. and michael vick’s first interception is only a few months away!
By mike
April 17, 2007 9:29 PM | Link to this
Did Billy Knight have input in the playoff roster and strategy. Please tell me yes that way I can sleep much better. What a disgraceful performance. They are an embarassment to this city.
By Wreckin' & Thrashin'
April 17, 2007 9:30 PM | Link to this
This is unbelievably ugly… at least Kovalchuk is showing some heart out there and going out fighting. He got some good pops in on Avery. Where the hell is Hossa?
By kris
April 17, 2007 9:36 PM | Link to this
New Yahker: lol-thank you sir may have another -not every body in Atlanta loves Vick-in fact alot would love to see him go. Good luck the rest of the playoffs.
By luckydog
April 17, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this
I predicted a not-close game, but this is ridiculous.
Our defense REEKS.
That 5th goal said it all: Callahan sipping a coffee and reading the paper in front of Kari while their point man tees it up leisurely. Our ever-polite slot defenders standing around on either side of the net. NO ONE LAYS A HAND ON CALLAHAN, who just waits for the shot and makes a nice tip past Kari’s glove.
I’m with Russian — off to the Sens-Pens game to watch some real playoff hockey.
Sorry to say it but this is a potential disaster for this franchise.
By Lee
April 17, 2007 9:38 PM | Link to this
Why did we change the goalie tonight? Why weren’t we better prepared? Why didn’t Atlanta’s top line show up? Why is our power play group so inept? Why did the Thrashers even bother going to the playoffs this year?
By Matt
April 17, 2007 9:39 PM | Link to this
Ha, easy Mike. An embarassment to this city is the Atlanta Hawks franchise, Mike Vick, and a good majority of the “sports fans” in it. There is life passed college football guys……. anyway, sad end to what was an otherwise good season. We brought a division title for the first time to this city in a sport other then baseball since the Falcons went to the Super Bowl, so there is no way the Thrashers are a disgrace. This is just going to be another sad end to a postseason in the city of Atlanta. Let’s get em next year boys. I do, however, pray Hartley is shown the door. The team just hasn’t looked ready all series and I think he really messed with team chemistry, switching lines, defensive pairings, and goalies. Bob, hit the panic button far too early and we never recovered.
By adam b
April 17, 2007 9:40 PM | Link to this
I’ve had it….pull lehtonen out! What a PITTYFUL performance!! Hedberg did a hell of a lot better! This is too painful to continue watching!
By Jay Bird
April 17, 2007 9:41 PM | Link to this
Heart is highly overrated in this case, he should be using his brain. We need a touchdown and a two point conversion now. Everything else has gone wrong, now we get the hats thrown at us. Not an encouraging sign when one of the leaders of our team, Slava, is getting stupid elbowing penalties. Hartley has lost complete control of this team, that’s for sure!
By BG33Brown
April 17, 2007 9:43 PM | Link to this
Mike funny. That’s the only good thing I have heard or seen all night. God I needed that.
By Jim
April 17, 2007 9:49 PM | Link to this
LOL. When are you people going to wake and call for the firing of Hartley!???!! I’ve been saying it for three years now!! I love it!! Now I’m afraid that b/c this pitiful team made it into the playoffs that they will keep the coach.
By RobBX
April 17, 2007 9:57 PM | Link to this
KARI KARI KARI!!!!!!!
YOU SUCK!
Serenade Lundqvist?
KARI KARI KARI. YOU SUCK!!!!!!
Take out the THRASH!!!!!
By Vegas
April 17, 2007 10:04 PM | Link to this
That was ugly guys. Looks like the Rangers got a first round bye.
By faceoff
April 17, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this
Hey, its only been 26 years since any team lost a playoff game that badly - that’s some sort of accomplishment.
By TB
April 17, 2007 10:07 PM | Link to this
Goaltending should be the least of our worries.
By Dave
April 17, 2007 10:13 PM | Link to this
Well, for those ‘famous’ bloggers that said playoff proven Tampa Bay sucks and that Atlanta would be a good representaive of the Southeast division, I hope you are satisfied. I currently see the Lightning with a 2-1 lead against a #2 seed. Even if they lose the next 3 at least they played decent. The Thrashers are an embarassment for the entire Southeast division making Mats Sundin look like a genius. I never thought I would see the Thrashers shaking hands so quick after the 1st round. Atlanta needs to start from scratch, with Hossa and Kozlov the first ones to go. There are reasons why clubs don’t keep certain players, now Atlanta has first hand knowledge. We know about Hossa in Ottawa, and we hoped for a change, stupidly. Kozlov, despite playoff success in Detroit, is not a one man show. He was surrounded by greatness in a Red Wing uniform. Anyone can score goals if they lined up with Yzerman. The truth hurts come playoff time, now the Thrashers have witnessed it first hand. A wonderful regular season is destroyed by terrible playoff performers and inexperience, a recipe for disaster.
By Talon
April 17, 2007 10:13 PM | Link to this
The big issue is “0” defense and “0” offense….not just bad goaltending…
By mike
April 17, 2007 10:22 PM | Link to this
I think what really upsets us the Atlanta fan base is that we really were convinced that this franchise might really make a nice run in the playoffs. To go out like this is like pouring salt on an open wound. The Braves are in total spin mode when reality say we have not the talent nor budget to compete. The Falcons a big question mark for the playoffs. The Hawks will have been sold twice and relocated before they remotely have a chance. I think this melt-down by the Thrashers just flattens support and excitement. It does for me. But hey we did get into the tournament so maybe I will feel better in a couple of weeks.
By Matt
April 17, 2007 10:46 PM | Link to this
Dave, obvioulsy you are a novice when it comes to hockey. You must be for asking us to show Hossa and Slava the door. Granted they haven’t shown up in the playoffs this season, but these are great guys to have on your team. Would you prefer we trot out Derrick Mackenzie and J.P. Vigier on our second line?
By kracker
April 17, 2007 10:56 PM | Link to this
Come on, Kari should sue for non-support tonight —- more like aiding and abetting the enemy, I mean giving up a wide open, uncontested shot just seconds into the game off of a sloppy, lazy line change…the skaters were never in it tonight, at least in the first two games we competed….
Moose, Kari, Garnett, it wouldn’t have made much difference tonight, they bagged it and are booking tee times now seems like.
By R. Stroz
April 17, 2007 11:04 PM | Link to this
If they lose the next game in this manner, we should show up at the airport and throw golf clubs at them.
By j nes
April 17, 2007 11:12 PM | Link to this
i wonder if getting swept would be a better learning experience for the team? I have never been one for moral victories.
Kari gave the game away on the first shot. Yeah it was a great shot and there was no defense, but a great goaltender stops great shots. I feel bad for moose, I hope he does not have to play behind this underacheiving group tomorrow, he deserves better.
By Dead Birds
April 17, 2007 11:43 PM | Link to this
Hate to lose the close ones! Guess the hockey bandwagon in ATL will have to wait at least another year.
By Brendan
April 18, 2007 2:48 AM | Link to this
No game is over 0:32 seconds in. It’s not even over with 0:32 seconds left, if the score is 1-0.
Ahhh, how (poster) Bob and I said, “please give us Tampa Bay” as a first round opponent. We didn’t need to win that shootout. But I thought, “why say no to a win?” The Rangers are a much better team than Tampa Bay. And the Devils are a better team than the Rangers. But the Rangers didn’t fire their Coach 79 games into the season, to create chaos inside their lockerroom, and potentially scare away future head coaches.
I wish Tampa Bay good luck. Assuming for the moment that they get by NJ, they get Buffalo next. Probably. This is why it’s dangerous to assume, and why they actually play the games.
I always remind myself that virtually ANY TEAM can get three (3) wins in the playoffs. Ya win one because the other team slipped on a banana peel. Ya win another one because of horrendous officiating. And perhaps, you win a 3rd game because on that occasion, ya really were the better team. And those three (3) wins and $1.50 buy you a cup of coffee. Unless you intend to “Irish it up” a bit. That costs extra.
By Bob
April 18, 2007 9:30 AM | Link to this
Bob, I don’t know how much hockey you have played (probably none) but when three players don’t break up a pass to a guy coming in wide open on the wing. It’s not a softie. It’s a good shot and bad defense. The player who should be blamed the least is Lehts
dj, save that dribble. I’ve watched more hockey than you and your buddy ranallo combined (by the way, why aren’t you and ranallo blaming everything on THE JPVJ lately? Hmmmm? Let me guess, it’s all Jimmy Slater’s fault now?!?!). Dumb and Dumber
The first goal was clearly due to a bad line change and missed assignment, but Hedberg stoned several breakaways similar to that in Game 2 and would’ve stopped that one, Lehtonen went down way too quick and left acres of net open and it got buried. You need your goalie to stop that shot, Lehting in a softie 30 seconds in just breaks your back.
It was obvious to most of us that know hockey that Kari was unprepared and was going to get blasted last night, that’s why we were calling for Moose to play last night.
Kari gave the game away on the first shot. Yeah it was a great shot and there was no defense, but a great goaltender stops great shots.
Yep, nice to see another fellow Thrasher fan that knows the game. It’s embarrasing to see how some of these goofs sit up in the rafters blaming things on hard workers like THE JPVJ when the real problems are right under their noses. No wonder the Ranger fans come in here and make fun of us.
Ahhh, how (poster) Bob and I said, “please give us Tampa Bay” as a first round opponent. We didn’t need to win that shootout. But I thought, “why say no to a win?”
Yep Brendan, I was so p** after that final game this year when we didn’t let Tampa take the extra point in OT so we could open up against them, not the Rangers who were playing so hot headed into the playoffs.
But frankly, with Hartley unable to manage the goalies and his incredibly incompetent game plan, we would’ve been killed by Lehtonen even if we played them, so whatever.
If Belkin wins the ownership situation, the whole thing might get blown up and we get a fresh start. I thought Waddell gave Hartley the right tools at the deadline, but Hartley wasted the chance. If Belkin wins, Waddell’s going to take the fall along with Hartley, and that’s probably a shame as he finally got it right this year, I thought.
Good news is that a new GM could come in and turns things around quickly, like Brian Burke did out in Anaheim. Lots of UFA’s on the team this summer, the club can be rebuilt pretty quickly.
By Bob
April 18, 2007 9:35 AM | Link to this
Brendan, have to disagree with you there. Last night, that game was over 30 seconds in. Generally speaking, of course you can come back from a 1-0 deficit with 59:30 left in the game.
But we had just lost the first two games at home. Our #1 goalie crapped the bed in Game 1. Our backup came in and played awesome in Game 2. Our coach yanked him due to his good performance and put’s Leh-them-in back in Game 3, and we’re on the road in a hostile environment in a must win game.
You have to get the first goal in that game to establish momentum, you know our players were also looking at Hartley wondering why he put Kari back there and everyone was nervous about it, they’d have to be. So, the first chance Kari gets to come up big and establish some confidence in the guys, he craps the bed and the game was over right there.
By Bob
April 18, 2007 9:38 AM | Link to this
For some of you that still need the bulb lit over your heads, check the stats for save % for all goalies in the playoffs this year.
1 = Moosedead last = Leht-them-in
‘nough said
By GSU-Lee
April 18, 2007 9:42 AM | Link to this
In the famous words of Dandy Don
Turn out the lights….the party’s over, they say all…good things must end Turn out the lights…the party’s over we’ll wake up tomorrow, and do it all again…
By BrandonC
April 18, 2007 10:11 AM | Link to this
Why blame Hossa? Your D and goalie stink on ice. Once you’re done there, then talk about the forwards. Hockey teams are created from the net out, and you guys couldnt even get out of your own zone. Go easy on Kovy, Hoss, and Walt, until they actually get the puck from a defenseman.
By Dave
April 18, 2007 10:13 AM | Link to this
Matt, loyalty is nice but you can’t be blind to what you are seeing on the ice. Maybe you are satisfied with regular season success but most Thrashers fans want more than a quick first round exit. Hossa and Kozlov will not lead Atlanta to a Stanley Cup. the Ottawa years have now become reality in Atlanta. You don’t repeat history over and over. Learn the lesson and move on. By the way, hardly a novice here, having attended games since my teens with my first Bruins/Canadiens playoff series back in the late 60’s with Orr, Beliveau and company. OK??
By Thrasher_Ed
April 18, 2007 11:20 AM | Link to this
One thing is for sure, there are a lot of guys in obvious contract years that wet the bed in this playoff series. I can’t believe we played so horribly last night. The number one priority this off season has to be re-vamping our Blue-line. I personally think Hartley errored greatly by not sitting Sutton or de Vries in favor of Steve McCarthy down the stretch. Somebody help me understand why he is so hung up on de Vries? Does Greg have pictures of Bob Hartley in a hotel with somebodies girl? Honestly, I glad we got in the playoffs,but we all expected more from a vet. group of players(5th most in terms of games played in the playoffs). What happens this off season? Stay tuned, it might be very interesting!
By Brendan
April 18, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this
Bob, you bring up another good point. It’s one thing if you’re a coach and you make a command decision, philosophically, that Moose is your “go to guy.” Fiiine. But it’s another to immediately abandon that strategy. Ya know?
So, what I’m trying to determine is … who does Hartley think is his go to guy? If it was Lehtonen all along, then why bench him after one start?? Stick with Kari until such time that it’s apparent that he’s played himself out of a job. At least that way, Hartley can say, “I stuck with him as long as I could, but then I had to make a change.
But if he feels that Moose is actually his “go to guy,” then why abandon that decision, ESPECIALLY after a stellar performance?? Shrugs. I’m at a total loss here, folks.
It’d be one thing if Hartley announced, from the conclusion of the season, that “I’m going with a rotation in the playoffs. We’ll start with Kari, then go to Moose, and continue on with that rotation throughout the playoffs.” Some teams do that. But these “mind games” of rotating netminders to “keep the team sharp” … don’t really reflect an NHL-caliber strategy. At this level, in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, why does, or should, a coach have to be concerned about keeping his troops sharp or focused? If they’re not ready by now … they’ll never be ready. You had 82 games to get them READY. Ya know?
Bob, I’ll agree with you that Atlanta really needed to get that first goal. To lay an egg in the first 0:32 was bad. “On the Fly” did a profile segment on Kovalchuk from the opening puck drop, highlighting that he never finished checks and went off for a line change 0:25 into his shift, that led to the 3-2, which led to the opening goal. Uhh, the “On the Fly” guys could have also pointed out that four Thrashers went to the puck carrier to create the imbalance also. But they principally pinned it on Kovalchuk for not chasing the Ranger player back in his own zone, or finishing his check on that player.
Folks, I still think a win tonight is important. Let’s get this thing back to our barn and try to push it back to NY for Game Six, and beyond.
By Bob
April 18, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this
But if he feels that Moose is actually his “go to guy,” then why abandon that decision, ESPECIALLY after a stellar performance?? Shrugs. I’m at a total loss here, folks.
You and me both, man. You and me both.
Folks, I still think a win tonight is important.
You really think we have any chance tonight? I guess with Moose back in there is a chance, but I’d prefer to just be done with it and move on, no interest in going down there Friday night just to watch them shakes hands at the end.
By Matt H
April 18, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this
(ahem) What’s up guys?
I recommend catching the BUF/NYI, VAN/DAL and SJ/NSH series. I’ve been following them all, and they’ve been great. The PIT/OTT series has been pretty good too, but not nearly as much as the other three.
Oh yeah. The Thrashers played last night too.
Well. Sort of.
I haven’t seen a team sh*t the bed like that in a long time.
I grew up watching two of the worst teams in professional sports. I learned to laugh at them long before I could even cheer for them. When the Lightning finally made the playoffs back in ‘96, it was a very special time.
Several years and two owners later, they had the Cup. The Bucs had the Lombardi. It can happen anywhere, if it can happen there. It can happen here.
Just not now, it is evident. And probably not with Waddell, and prrrrobably not with Hartley, and not at all with a squabbling ownership. It’s not a bad time to give up on some of the players, coaches and management.
I don’t think it’s a bad time to take a step back, make some changes, start over.
It would be best if attendance dropped some next season. Sometimes things have to get worse before they get better.
But don’t give up on “The Thrashers.” They’re our team, and even though I don’t live in Atlanta-proper, I’m proud to have an NHL team in my state that I can and will support.
I wore my Thrashers sweater yesterday, and I’m wearing it again today.
I will not try to rah-rah anyone. You simply can’t after last night. The Thrashers are obviously on the wrong track now. And if they continue unabated to reach Miami and Chicago proportions, I’ll simply pull my support altogether and go back to rooting for the Bolts (that’s developing into an interesting series too.)
But the fact is, we’re not there yet. And Thrashers fans deserve better than what happened last night. The best way to get retribution is to keep caring, even a little, and hold the management accountable for the terrible performance we all just witnessed.
By Brendan
April 18, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this
Bob, it may ring “hollow,” but I still think it’s important to at least get that “1st franchise playoff win” established, even if it is in a losing series. Now, ask me again if, FINANCIALLY, I want to be out the $$ for Game Five. That’s sort of a “gray area.” Well, not really. I fully expected to see at least one home playoff win this year. I don’t relish the prospect of 0-3 at Blueland. But I know that, historically, this kind of deficit is something that not even Gretzky’s Oilers of the mid-1980’s could realistically overcome. So, I do quite see your point, Bob. The situation does reek of “prolonging the inevitable.” But if you’re the owners, or prospective owners, of this club, you need to give this fanbase something to cling to for next season and your ticket sales. No?
That is, if the PERVASIVE BELIEF out there in Blueland is that this team is too old, too strung out financially, too slow, and can’t improve itself with the current GM and Coach, … well, then I doubt people’s top priority this Summer and Fall will be to rush right out to buy season tickets or 20-game packs for next year. Plus, if you’re the owners, a win in NYC tonight puts another $2 million of PURE PROFIT right in your pocket. And if the series should shift back to NYC, that’s money for the Rangers, too.
By David
April 22, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this
Little Heart, Little Fire Late last season, late this season and during the playoffs I saw a team with little heart, little fire when it counted. My experience is that intensity and a winning attitude starts with leadership. The constant denominator through the years of Thasher underperformance has been Don Waddell. In the business world, a CEO with 7 straight years of losses simply would not survive. Perhaps it’s time for a change, some spark, some intensity at the top.