Thrashers

By JayBird

May 14, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the update, Craig. The prospects sound very encouraging. I would love to see some of those guys step up and mix well with the established vets who are returning.

Who have you heard as potential free agent targets for the Thrashers?

By ssiscribe

May 14, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this

Craig, hey man, thanks much for the blog. What were your impressions of Krog Saturday night? I really, really liked the boost he gave the Thrashers before the trade. Curious to see what type of shot he gets this fall.

Is Little a longshot to make the opening day roster? Seems he has tremendous upside. Also seems he’s had such a quick rise, a little more seasoning wouldn’t hurt. But, if he can play, he can play, right?

The other Ilya on team Russia, Ilya Nikulin, had a good tournament from reading the recaps and box scores from the Worlds. For those of us who grew up on baseball, etc., it might be good to explain at some point in time the apparent difficulty Russia presents when it comes to transfers. Correct me if I’m wrong — and this is hockey, not baseball, so it’s likely I have this not exactly right — but the Russians didn’t sign the last transfer agreement two years ago, and by the Russians not taking part, it puts tremendous pressure on the player in the middle because the Russians don’t get any compensation if that player leaves.

OK, meeting time. Thanks much!

—30—

By ssiscribe

May 14, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this

Quick meeting. One more thing: Any word on Hamilton or Manitoba, the winner of which the Wolves get in the West Finals? And will Chicago have home ice.

Also, Garnett’s a great story. I know he’s not going to be logging substantial minutes in the ATL like he did in 05-06, but I admire the way he’s played, especially in the playoffs (8-2 this year in Calder Cup play).

Thanks again, Craig! You’re doing a great job and we appreciate it. And going to Chicago for playoff hockey (albeit AHL) must beat covering high school spring practice in the ‘burbs.

—30—

By Kari's Karpets

May 14, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this

Beauty Update Craig.. Thanks a bunch. Little is a very good player and i think Waddell will give him a chance to make the team. I heard the Thrash are interested in Mike Comrie and Scotty Gomez.. Any truth in that Craig??

By Brendan

May 14, 2007 5:49 PM | Link to this

Is this a great beat writer, or what? Do you remember updates like this last year?

Fantastic. I’m glad Don is working on SOMEONE’s contract. Okayyyy, yes. These guys don’t officially become “Unrestricted” until July 1, but the longer Don waits to sign the players he intends to sign, the higher the price goes. Since, ya know, other GM’s ARE signing UFA’s currently on their rosters, for the purposes of renewing them.

While Don has a point about UFA’s being “unable” to sign ELSEWHERE until July 1st, he’s not doing himself any favors by waiting ‘til June 30th to get it done. Contracts can and will go up, between now and June 30th. There may not be an imminent danger in losing the player, but why put off ‘til tomorrow what you CAN DO today??

And if the phone rings, and it’s some other GM in a frantic tizzy, offering you “deal of the century” ‘cuz he’s got a disgruntled player(s) who want out, you trade the guys you just signed as UFA’s to make it happen. Where’s the danger in that, I do wonder?

It’s been my observation that prices just go up … the longer the offseason goes. Why not save some money? Things are gonna be “tight enough” as it is. Now, it’s quite another matter if the player’s agent tells the GM, “We’re not entertaining offers until July 1.” Then, there’s nothing he can do but wait. And from the sounds of it, the player intends to leave Atlanta. Atlanta is allowed to make offers to UFA’s on their own roster. They just can’t make offers to UFA’s not on their roster.

By Jeff

May 14, 2007 5:56 PM | Link to this

Hey Craig, who’s this “Valabic” kid you mentioned twice, eh? LOL, I am just kidding man.

Anyway, you spelled Valabik’s name wrong twice in your write up, so you might want to fix that when you get a chance.

BTW, do you know the details on Nikulin’s contract situation with his Russian team? I mean does he have another season left on it or not?

I ask because I’ve heard it runs out before our next season. Plus the Russian media reported the following not long ago:

“Ilya Nikulin got an offer from NHL league club Atlanta Ttrashers and will move there in summer.

If he manages to become first choice defender he would play with Ilya Kovalchuk and Vyacheslav Kozlov.”

Source: http://english.sport-express.ru/news/13_304/

By Lee

May 14, 2007 5:58 PM | Link to this

Craig, glad you are enjoying chi-town…get any deep-dish pizza yet?

By UpperDeck4Life

May 14, 2007 6:12 PM | Link to this

This makes me feel so much better about my Enstrom comments from before the World’s. I think that Popovic plays with Oystrick as the 3rd pair and Enstrom plays with XLB next year. If the team does sign Gomez, it’ll be afforded by going with these rookies on the blue line; but to be honest I would rather see some of these guys making the roster instead of some of the blueliners we had last season.

Craig, did DW talk about what he thought Enstrom’s strengths were from his observations?

In your opinion does Sterling look like he would fit better with Kovy or Hossa?

Thanks for the update.

By LAC

May 14, 2007 6:38 PM | Link to this

Time for waddell to sign some of OUR players before 7/1/07.

What in the hell is wrong with that.

This is where I strongly believe waddell is at his WORST, waiting and NOT moving quickly tosave $ and start the road to 07/08.

This waiting and no discussions etc… is BS, just another reason waddell should not even be here.

Got to see one Wolves game and it was GREAT several players should be here next season… Let’s hope the play !!!

By Tony C.

May 14, 2007 6:55 PM | Link to this

Craig

Thanks! Your coverage is outstanding-I am consistently impressed with the speed and depth of your reporting-even if the GrammarNazis have some nits to pick.

I’m curious about LaVallee(spl?) I understand that the coaching staff in Duluth was rather impressed with him @ 2K6 summer camp-do you feel he’s a season or so away, or is it a question of him maintaining the “high gear” over a longer stretch of time???

Also, what if anything did DW have to say about Kari The Kid’s performance @ the Worlds??? Is Kari coming back to train with Ray Bear again this summer?

Keep up the great work!

By RedandBlackAttack

May 14, 2007 7:10 PM | Link to this

When will the Thrashers start drafting or signing players with size and ability? A 5ft8in player is NOT going to be the answer. The Thrashers need a sizable center playing up front at the opposing net. KT is the first Thrasher center to accomplish that feat. I am not saying to sign KT and give up the 2008 number one pick, but for the Thrashers to look for someone like KT. The Thrashers need more 6 plus footers, not 5 feet somethings.

Good story. It is great to read about what may be coming to Atlanta. Go Thrashers!!!

By Legion of thrash

May 14, 2007 7:12 PM | Link to this

I wouldn’t consider any evaluation of a player by Wadell to be anywhere near correct. Wadell claimed Coburn and Bourret would make the team last year and you see how that went.

By Craig Custance

May 14, 2007 8:50 PM | Link to this

Jeff — Thanks, made the correction. I”m going to act like that never happened.

By Craig Custance

May 14, 2007 9:04 PM | Link to this

UpperDeck: Don said Enstrom was very poised with the puck and would be a good addition. His exact quote: “He’s ready to play. I would like to bring him over.”

Lee: No pizza, maybe next trip.

Tony C: I liked LaVallee a lot. He’s a pretty big kid, maybe 6-3. He’s one of those players who kept making plays, and I’d look at the roster to see who it was, and it was always him. You hate to make judgments based on just one game, but from what I understand he impressed Don and Bob when they were doing some scouting there after the season ended.

By Bob

May 14, 2007 10:01 PM | Link to this

The mere fact that Waddell drafted these guys, is the kiss of death for them. Poor kids.

I agree Brendan, why wait to sign our guys that need signed? Other GM’s are signing their guys, our guy fiddles. To be fair, he could have his hands tied by the ownership situation. When’s that going to be settled?

By Sara

May 15, 2007 6:46 AM | Link to this

As I recall, the game plan was for DW to sit down with the owners after he finished scouting the Wolves and the World’s to map out their game plan for next season’s roster. He can’t just start signing guys until they have an idea of what they are going to do. And he needs to get an idea of who in the system might be ready before he does that - having ready prospects at this juncture is crucial to making the roster work next season.

The budget is going to be all kinds of tight next season. There’s roughly $26 mill already tied up in just 8 players. It’s going to take very careful planning to fill the rest of the spots with maybe $14 mill or so to work with, especially considering the desires for a top line center and at least one other top tier defenseman. We’re going to need as many young ‘n’ cheap players next year as we can get to have a prayer of snagging even one of those top-tier players.

By wristshot

May 15, 2007 7:30 AM | Link to this

Jeez Bob, you sure are a pessimist. I’m just glad that yourself and Brendan are here to teach DW the intracacies of being an NHL GM. What would he do without you two??

By B. Thenet

May 15, 2007 7:56 AM | Link to this

It would sure make DW’s salary cap management a whole lot easier if we can add 3-4 rookies to the roster next season.

It is nice to see some of the late rounders finally coming through for the Thrashers, and the Wolves are providing a pleasant diversion from the show that Heatley is putting on in the NHL playoffs.

By Bob

May 15, 2007 8:56 AM | Link to this

Yeah, what about Heatley. I had myself convinced that we won that trade, hands down, after seeing Hossa’s regular season performance.

After seeing how Hoss disappeared at the end of the year and when the Rangers swept us, and now watching Heatley be a prime time player for the Sens, I hate him all over again for the screw job he gave the Thrashers.

Sara, last time I looked, I thought Waddell had about $29m in Cap money tied up in 8 guys. Figuring a self imposed budget of around $39m again (same as last year), that leaves $11m to sign 14 roster players, no? Makes me think we may see a Hossa or someone traded.

By Doughboy

May 15, 2007 9:52 AM | Link to this

just a few comments.
First off keep up the great work Craig. Someone at the paper knows hockey… Valabik - I’ve seen him in preseason, and saw 2 Wolves games this season.. He reminds me of a typical career minor leaguer. Tall, lanky, hits pretty good… but no sense for playing defense. I hope I’m wrong and he turns into Chara. But he misses too many times. anyone with any speed just skates around him. Then he’ll use his reach and trip guys. Bad penalties. Oystrick - on the other hand… is going to be a star. I really like his shot, his control of the power play. He riminds me a little of Brian Leech, but with a harder shot. Popovic - He’ll be the Thrashers 4 or 5th defenseman for the next 4 years. Just a solid player. Sterling - He needs to be a 1st or 2nd line guy to succeed. He can’t be stuck on the 4th line just to get some NHL time. He needs playmakers around him. Needs to play with a Hossa or Kovy.

The big question with all of these guys is… will DW and BH play these guys? Hardly any rookies in the past few seasons. Time for the Thrashers to get younger and faster!

By Craig Custance

May 15, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this

The AHL’s Western Conference finals schedule was released. Here you go:

GAME DATE SITE TIME (EST)/RESULTS SERIES STANDING One May 18 Chicago 8:30 p.m., ET
Two May 20 Chicago 4 p.m., ET
Three May 23 Hamilton 7:30 p.m., ET
Four May 25 Hamilton 7:30 p.m., ET
*Five May 26 Hamilton 7 p.m., ET
*Six May 28 Chicago 8 p.m., ET *Seven May 30 Chicago 8 p.m., ET

By The Falconer

May 15, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this

Brendan:

Just because DW is in Russia doesn’t mean that work is not being done on the prospect contracts. After all it is Asst. GM Larry Simmons who does most of the player contract stuff.

By icemansucks

May 15, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this

“Quite honestly, I couldn’t tell if he was getting his chances because of his linemates (Krog and Haydar are pretty darn good AHL players) but, as Don points out, you don’t score 55 goals without being pretty talented.”

A good measure would be to find out what Sterlings statistics were in the stretch that Krog was a NY Ranger and Haydar was called up to Atlanta…anybody want to go stat digging?

By wh

May 15, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

Doughboy - I understand fandom yet …

“Oystrick reminds me of Brian Leetch with a harder shot” Yet he’ll be the 4th or 5th Dman “for 4 or 5 years”? Also he’ll be 26 during the season - a year when Leetch won a little trophy called he Conn Smythe to go with his Norris and Calder hardware. That is some high comedy. You may want to find a more apt comparison.

By wh

May 15, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this

As an example of the quality of center the Thrashers can afford on the open market - Michael Nylander (35 when season starts) a nice player for sure - he is balking at 3.5M. Gomez/Drury are going to be in the 7M neighborhood. Gomez is a lock to get 6 years at 7/8M per. Oh, and he is a year younger than Hossa. Priority 1 and 2 - Get Hossa signed.

By sisu

May 15, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this

Boris could make an impact in two to three years…Pop will surprise people with his skills.

Now the only question is, will Hi Bob play the rookies?

By Thashers27

May 15, 2007 1:15 PM | Link to this

“Ottowa”?

Sacrilege!

No wonder the hockey world scoughs at the thought of Atlanta supporting hockey.

By wh

May 15, 2007 2:11 PM | Link to this

Good Catch - It’s only the country’s capital. LOL.

By UpperDeck4Life

May 15, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this

icemansucks here ya go.

Haydar was up with the Thrashers from Feb. 2nd to Feb 12th. Krog was gone during that time as well. Here are Sterling’s stats.

Games played: 7

Goals: 4 Assists: 4 Points: 8

By Brian

May 15, 2007 5:24 PM | Link to this

UpperDeck4Life - nice stats that you provided there. So he was a point/game player without Haydar/Krog? I like that.

Thrashers27 & wh - where was the original Ottowa reference? I am lost on that one…

By Sara

May 15, 2007 6:08 PM | Link to this

Bob, it’s $27.814 in cap space to Kovy, Hossa, Holik, Rucchin, Zhitnik, Havelid, Kari, and Moose. If we assume DW might be willing to stretch the cap a bit to $40 mill, the that leaves $12.186 mill to sign 15 players. That’s less than a mil average per - ugly ugly stuff.

So to answer the questions about whether or not Hartley will play the rookies - frankly, he isn’t going to have a choice … you won’t get 15 vet players with $12 mill.

By Bob

May 15, 2007 8:49 PM | Link to this

Man, we’re in a tough spot. 15 guys to sign with $12m? And all kinds of holes all over the club. We still don’t have a top center beyond Belanger, I don’t want to even hear about Rucchin.

The more I think about it, the more I think the right move is to trade Hoss and get 2 top 6 forwards and a top 4 dman in return.

By Tony H

May 15, 2007 10:10 PM | Link to this

It’s really super to look around and see the great job that Wadell has done. Almost 7 Million tied up in Rucchin and Holik. Great job, Don. And Bob, unless I missed the news, we don’t have Belanger. He is among the many UFAs from our last year’s roster. I’m afraid that current ownership has taken a very shortsighted approach as to how far the team has come. Don sold the team’s future down the river overpaying guys like Holik and giving up this year’s draft to cover his butt. I say that purely and simply because I think the heat was on from the owners for the team to make the playoffs last year. I firmly believe that was the major criteria for him to keep his job this year. Well, he bought a year and we, the fans and the team, are the losers. We certainly don’t have a huge stockpile of signed talent to carry us forward and no cap money to speak of. I, also, think the owners are expecting the attendance to continue to grow next year. That won’t happen if the dynamic duo of Hartley and Wadell don’t produce a winner. I sure hope the prospects are able to step up and produce but I have my doubts. We are placing an unbelievable amount of trust in the unknown and unproven because we basically have no other choice.

By Jeff

May 15, 2007 11:09 PM | Link to this

Doughboy stated Valabik - I’ve seen him in preseason, and saw 2 Wolves games this season.. He reminds me of a typical career minor leaguer. Tall, lanky, hits pretty good… but no sense for playing defense. I hope I’m wrong and he turns into Chara. But he misses too many times. anyone with any speed just skates around him. Then he’ll use his reach and trip guys.

I don’t agree with your opinion of Valabik, nor does Thrashers management, which is more important than what either of us think.

That said, I noticed that you make out like Valabik takes a lot of tripping penalties or penalties of that nature. But Valabik actually doesn’t have a single tripping penalty in the Calder Cup playoffs, nor does he have any hooking penalties, and he only has one holding penalty. And this is through two rounds of the Calder Cup playoffs, not just a few games.

Valabik’s penalties are usually roughing, fighting majors and ten min misconduct penalties. Furthermore, Valabik’s positioning is actually pretty good. He’s not a player with no sense at playing defense.

By You suck.

May 16, 2007 2:12 AM | Link to this

WTF is with all of these people saying good riddance to Heatley in the survey question.

Yeah, screw you Heatley. Sure, we traded you for TWO of our players on this last years roster, but whatev… you can’t be that great. You only had back to back 50 goal seasons. You were only a +60 over the last two seasons… Nah, you suck.

I guess everyone forgets about the whole Dan Snyder incident. You go and kill off your friend and then when you leave to try to ease the pain and memories… I’ll say good riddance to you. Bastards.

By UpperDeck4Life

May 16, 2007 8:23 AM | Link to this

Those of you worrying about Rucchin shouldn’t. The team is looking into buying him out from what I have heard. I know that means we have to eat part of his salary in the salary cap but we should have a few more dollars to spend.

I have an idea though, and before I get to I want to say I am a fan of the player and his hustle, but Jimmy Slater will be making close to 1 mil next season. I think we can find a 4th line center for a little less than that. I am a fan of the guy….but business is business.

We’ll have roughly 7 million tied up in Zhitnik, Havelid, and XLB (if resigned) for next season. If Enstrom and Popovic are 2 of the other 3 we might be able to put our defense together for right around 10 million

By Thrasher Ryan

May 16, 2007 9:11 AM | Link to this

Upper Deck— I agree with you on all points. Rucchin will be gone, and Slater should be gone. He just has not performed at this level like we were led to believe he would. Believe me, I wanted to believe in the guy, but it has been 2 seasons now of the same stuff. It is time for him to go.

Looks like my Ottawa pick is panning out. Heatley is on fire.

By Doughboy

May 16, 2007 10:07 AM | Link to this

WH - I said Popovic will be the 4th or 5th defenseman. I think Oystrick will be our #1 defenseman by 2009 and reminds me of Leetch.

Jeff - (good name by the way…) It’s good to here Valabik hasn’t received any tripping penalties in the playoffs. I watched him early in the season and pre-season. I hope he’s improved. I was just shocked at his lack of skating ability and positioning when I watched him. just my opinion of the games I watched. He just looked like a statue to me.

By Brendan

May 16, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

Anything a GM does is subject to scrutiny. LOL. It’s probably a “standing rule” that GM’s IGNORE the media and fans alike. But I do suspect Don Waddell does, very much, indeed CARE about his team, its players and its fans. I have little doubt that DW is doing the best job he is capable of. He strikes me as a kind and decent man. I don’t think anyone is saying that he’s not “working.” What’s being advanced here is … he’s not signing players. Which does not equal “not working.”

Okayyyyy. Yes. He’s got to rework the budget. I buy that to a certain extent. If some of these rookie draft picks are going to play here in the Fall, that it affects things, like UFA signings.

But, at the same time, what says Waddell cannot immediately trade the guys he’s just signed if something better comes along? The rules say … you just have to get UNDER THE CAP by Opening Night. In other words, Waddell could be over the cap right now. There’s no penalty for that. There isn’t. He just has to get under by the start of the regular season. (Sorry, I called that “Opening Night,” well, crucify me!)

Ya know, I suspect GM’s have a “concept” of what they’re trying to do with their clubs. If they don’t, I’d be amazed. But I digress. If our trade deadline guys like Dupuis and Belanger are part of “Don’s vision” for things to come, then there’s no point to WAITING to sign them. If they demand too much, then he’s gotta let ‘em go. But if they can be signed now, what not do it??? DW can always trade them, later, if something better falls into his lap. That’s called “managing the roster.” Again, he just has to get under the cap by the start of the season. Assuming the ownership group is still committed to spending like that. And, of course, no one is suggesting that the Thrashers MAX OUT their cap in October. That’s insanity. I’d say $40 million is nice target, for a $46-$47 million cap.

By The Falconer

May 16, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this

Jeff: Valabik has now been benched twicein the 3rd period during the playoffs for taking dumb penalties. It don’t care if they are for ruffing, tripping, or boarding, but you can’t be so stupid to lay a guy out after a good clean hit. That’s just hockey, you have to wait and line the guy up next shift. Something Boris forgets on a nightly basis.

re: Budget. I don’t see how this they can field a playoff team with just $40 roster to start the season. The new cap number will be between 47-49 million depending upon what the new union head says. Personally, I think the Thrashers will need a $42-43 roster to be competitive. If they were not overpaying Holik they could get away with $40 million perhaps.

By Aaron

May 16, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

About Rucchin:

I don’t believe a player can be bought out if he is injured. The team tried the same thing with Damien Rhodes a few years ago, but he was injured and they were stuck with his contract for the season. If he retires, they are also stuck with his contract. The best thing would be to just put him on long-term non-roster IR, in that case, I don’t think it applies to the cap.

By Aaron

May 16, 2007 3:14 PM | Link to this

About Rucchin:

I don’t believe a player can be bought out if he is injured. The team tried the same thing with Damien Rhodes a few years ago, but he was injured and they were stuck with his contract for the season. If he retires, they are also stuck with his contract. The best thing would be to just put him on long-term non-roster IR, in that case, I don’t think it applies to the cap.

By The Falconer

May 16, 2007 5:22 PM | Link to this

Aaron: If Rucchin is out for the season, the team can get an LTI exemption which allows them to spend over the cap equal to the amount of his salary. But Rucchin still gets paid his salary.

Even if the Thrashers CAN spend over the cap I’m not sure that ownership is going to be wild about spending $50 million when they lost a lot of money last year on a $44 million payroll.

But if they ARE willing to continue the losses then the Thrashers could go over the cap.

By Jameson

May 17, 2007 12:22 AM | Link to this

@You Suck, I’m sick of this conversation, but when someone says something like this, I just can’t let it go. However, you’re right… I don’t know what I was thinking when I voted that I was glad to be rid of Heatley. Ya know, it wasn’t enough when he wanted to ditch the city and team that supported him through that tragedy, so the day he arrived in his new town, he went running his mouth off to the media about how ignorant this city is, and how glad he was to be somewhere new. He seems like a real class guy. I don’t know why I wouldn’t want a back-stabbing jerk like that playing for my hometown.

By Brendan

May 17, 2007 3:14 PM | Link to this

Jameson, don’t let it get to you, man. For people of like-minded ideology, what they think is all that matters. It wouldn’t matter if you were talking about abortion, capital gains tax, or trading players on your favorite hockey team. Their opinion is the only one that counts or matters. They’re not interested in dissenting opinions or viewpoints. And while driving down the interstate, anyone going slower than they are … is a moron. And anyone going faster … is a maniac. Imagine their disappointment when playing “Monopoly,” and they can’t ‘Pass GO and collect $200.’ Their frustration is exacerbated by having to pay mortgage on Baltic Avenue. But I digress.

Tell tale signs of an ego run amok. For them, you’re either (1) AGREEING with them or (2) saying stupid stuff. And if you continue to say stupid stuff, i.e., disagreeing with them, then their next order of business is to try to discredit you or, gasp, SILENCE you.

Luckily, we live in the United States and freedom of speech and thought reign supreme. And, what’s more, it’s not illegal to be an idiot.

I liked Dany Heatley. I was sorry to see him go. I always suspected that one day, he’d hoist a Stanley Cup. I just hoped it would be for Atlanta, the team that drafted him. Bygones.

By Tony H

May 17, 2007 5:51 PM | Link to this

Surely is nice watching the Flyers sign three of their free agents this past week while Wadell sits on his butt waiting to talk with the owners next month.

Certainly is a confidence builder.

By Tony H

May 17, 2007 5:51 PM | Link to this

Surely is nice watching the Flyers sign three of their free agents this past week while Wadell sits on his butt waiting to talk with the owners next month.

Certainly is a confidence builder.

By Shoot it

May 18, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this

Found a great site regarding russian prospect nikulin.

http://www.russianprospects.com/public/profile.php?player_id=5

By DB

May 18, 2007 1:24 PM | Link to this

Yes. Lets eat-up cap space by signing three 3rd/4th line grinders. That would build my confidence.

By Brendan

May 18, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this

Ummn, how is Don Waddell going to sign 3rd and 4th line grinders for FREE? And what are they really going to cost, anyway? $1.5 million, for the three of them, probably. He’s got to pay SOMEBODY to fill out the roster. If the opportunity to land a big name UFA or acquire a hot RFA via trade presents itself, then he just trades these other guys away. That’s called “managing the roster.”

If DW wants Larsen, Boulton and Vigier back … none of those guys are gonna break the bank. We’re talking about something close to the league minimum ($500K). But if contract prices go up for similarly priced players, to say $600-$700K, then it’s better to sign these bargain basement guys NOW, rather than after the price goes up. And where’s the sense in paying a “Boulton” type player $700K??? Yes, fine. Let him walk then, if he demands that much. You still have to find someone willing to take $500K. Offer him $515K now, and he’s signed. You can always trade him later, if you like one of your rookies out of training camp better. I’m sure Boulton would fetch a 3rd or 4th round pick, or some minor leaguer to be developed in Chicago. Come to think of it, that’s precisely what he should do, if DW has no intentions of re-signing Boulton, for example. At least this way, the Thrashers get something for him, rather than letting him walk for nothing. Who knows? Maybe that 4th round pick (via Boulton) becomes “sweetener” in a deal with some Western Conference team who has a decent player who has merely “fallen out of favor” in his camp?

By Brendan

May 18, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

What is Larry Simmons doing right now?

By DB

May 18, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

Signing activity for the sake of activity is a waste of time. Brendan, if the Thrashers want to resign the three you mentioned, they will be available all summer. None of these guys would have trade value. Players with more skill than Boulton were traded for less at the trade deadlione last year.

I love what they have done for the Thrashers but there are any number of guys who are available and can fill these positions at any time. Take care of the RFA’s first (XLB is a must and I think Slater may get a one year) then we can look to our UFA’s and any UFA’s available who fit under the salary structure. Look to see what bringing a couple of Euro prospects will cost and look at Kozzy will need to stay. Hurrying only brings mistaked at a higher price (see what we paid for Holik). I would love to see us start off the with a bang but we have too many needs at this point to start sihgning for the sake of signing.

By Brendan

May 18, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

I appreciate that, DB. But if DW’s “vision” includes re-signing these players, he runs the risk of having to pay higher prices. Granted, none of those guys make your roster a Championship caliber one. They’re filler/role players. But on the plus side, they already KNOW the Thrashers system. They’re not outsiders who need to be taught.

I agree that locking up the RFA’s is also a top priority. XLB is a must and I’d say McCarthy ought to at least get a qualifying offer. If McCarthy rejects it, DW can trade him or take his chances in binding arbitration. He can trade him AFTER arbitration, as well. He still owns his rights. And if any other team signs him, Atlanta gets a 2nd round pick as compensation for his loss, given his salary. I suspect DW can land Slater without tendering the qualifying offer. There’s risk in that, however. If, after the designated period expires for tendering qualifying offers, Slater becomes an unrestricted free agent, he can sign with anyone. And if so, Atlanta doesn’t get any form of compensation for his loss. Then again, Atlanta can re-sign him as a UFA for LESS than what his qualifying offer (about $990) would have been. It’s a gamble, but it might pay off. The alternative is to tender the offer and Slater pay him the offer. Lest he seriously want to take you to binding arbitration. Given his past season, I doubt it!

By Bob

May 18, 2007 4:18 PM | Link to this

First, our team continues to improve each year and will next year. Other GMs are not out “signing everyone” There is a process and we will be ok. The real issue is that at a $39-$40M salary we lose money. As the cap increases as a percent of league revenues we will be at a disadvantage unless we start filling the building and raising ticket prices. We average a little over 16K per game, well below many other teams and we have lower average ticket prices. In short our model today does not support a budget greater tahn the high 30’s. Tampa as an example, is in the same situation and many teams are going to have a handful of players tying up a large percentage of cap /salary space. The issue is continue to improve, be smart about it and build the franchise over time with a model that is sustainable. DW knows what he is doing and the ownership will be supportive, but also rational about it.

By Brian

May 18, 2007 4:50 PM | Link to this

Brendan - if you don’t know what DW’s vision is, how can you say he should be doing one thing versus another? Sit back and let the managers manage.

And don’t even start asking about Larry Simmons and taking shots at him. Before the Falconer mentioned him above you had never even heard of him. Let Larry do his job and don’t worry yourself about it.

Bob - glad to see that you are supporting the continuous building over time. I understand that you might be worried about the financial implications of ticket sales but have confidence in mgt. They have full view of everything that is going on and there are some other pieces that come into play besides the Thrashers side of Philips ticket sales that come into play…

By Bob

May 18, 2007 5:30 PM | Link to this

Brian, I have supported since the inception and it has added up to alot.So I am not worried about the financials just practical and realistic. What bothers me is many who choose to post on this and other boards who indicate “they were watching” and come up with all the negativity about who or why we have or haven’t signed someone. It’s a business and it would be much easier if those folks would actually make a more substancial financial investment in the team.We’d certainly have more to work with, although any support is certainly welcome. Bottom line is we were an expansion team, bad for a few years and we have now won for multiple years straight, with improvement each year. Of course we all want to win and win now, but I’ll take a franchise that is a solid, consistent winner over the hit and miss any day. It is indeed my belief that is occuring here.

By LAC

May 18, 2007 11:39 PM | Link to this

waddle HAS NO VISION, he cannot save $ by resigning our current players… This is YET another reason that he needs to Take The Train… OUT OF TOWN ASAP !

By SageofBluesland

May 19, 2007 12:15 AM | Link to this

And Don Waddell thanks you from the bottom of his ever deep heart for your continued support…As for my financial decisions and how they relate to the recent second-oldest team in the league, I choose not to subsidize incompetence…I haven’t for several years now as Donny’s “Five-Year Plan” stretched into years six, seven, and eight and his “build through the draft” turned into nothing more than folly…

Great, at this, umm, “rate” of progress—I guess some will be happy if we actually hold a lead for all of two playoff games next year…Well, it IS progress, that’s a fact…

In my next life I want to come back as the buffoonish—yet lovable—Don Waddell as he bumbles, stumbles, and blusters along spending much of his time failing at Team USA hockey and in thinking of annual wittle slogans for his little carnival…All the while escaping accountability at his primary job ‘cause he’s such a good guy and all…

When we go downhill next year (and the next), at least be honest and DON’T say you knew all along Don was in way over his head…Some knew this years ago, said it repeatedly, and were scorned…That’s all I ask…

By Bob

May 19, 2007 11:03 AM | Link to this

Sage, Thank. You just confirmed my point about people that do not financially support the team but are negative about it. Fact is, we have improved each year and if DW is incompetant, I guess that means about 20 or 25 other GMs are also. If people would spend more on a team that actually won it’s division throughout each season, it would be much easier to sign players.

By GM

May 19, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

Wow - you guys are all brilliant. Why aren’t you running an NHL team? OK an AHL team? Oh alright a junior team? 10 year old travel team? Is there a competition who can sound the most erudite in naming second tier (third tier?) NHL players? Buy a hockey stick, the AAHL needs players. Maybe you can pick your linemates.

By Tony C.

May 19, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this

I have applied for DW’s job, for some reason they didn’t think some guy from the ATL metroplex was a “hockey guy”….they still baked even after I showed them my unprecedented string of 18 straight Cup victories on NHL 2K7. I figured the trade for Stoll alone would’ve gotten me more face time. Oh well.

By Tony C.

May 19, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this

That was a joke jusssst in case you didn’t get it.

By Brendan

May 19, 2007 6:59 PM | Link to this

It’s like a broken record in here sometimes.

Don Waddell isn’t the worst GM in hockey. He’s #17, by my estimation. He’s ranked #19 on the Hockey News’ list. And if you ask the good folks who run who a money magazine (Forbes), he’s #6, overall, in all sports combined. I believe he’s #3 in the NHL. Though I have hardly memorized their list. But Forbes said Kevin McHale was the #1 GM in all of sports. And nothing more needs to be added after a declaration like that.

There are also some folks who, God love ‘em, cannot tolerate an “ounce” or a “peep” of criticism directed in Don Waddell’s general viscinity. I’ll say it again, “People who have had the Waddell kool-aid, tend to have had second and third helpings.” And … they’re absolutely entitled to hold their viewpoints. I do not seek to suppress any opinion. I do not call them names. I do not run them down, personally.

And if Don Waddell implements his “vision” for the roster without overpaying for players he could have signed to-day, as in RIGHT NOW, fiiiinne! Mission accomplished, if it happens. All praise to Don!!! If it doesn’t happen, I’m not going to criticize people who say things like, “Ya know, he coulda signed this guy back in April or May for a lot less than what he paid for him in September.” Because I think that’s a valid point, no matter what player we’re talking about.

I think it’s utterly ridiculous to read comments tantamount to “So, how many championship victories do YOU own on your resume?, to feel you have the right to second-guess Don Waddell?”

Pfft! Laughing. As many as you do, defending him. Hmmn, so if Scotty Bowman criticized Waddell … his criticism might be valid?? Right?? Or so goes the thinking. And what on Earth just happened to “free speech?”

Aye, aye, aye.

Coaches, General Managers and owners alike … are beholden to the fan base that SUSTAINS them. If they alienate their fan base enough, it will walk away. There are those in my office who constantly criticize me for going to games because Don Waddell is still the GM. They want him gone. They have their reasons. I’ve heard them. Countless times. Any longtime fan of this team knows the Waddell “file” backwards and forwards, back to 1998 and the hiring Damian Rhodes. They feel we shouldn’t subsidize this kind of decision-making.

I can’t help it. I do go to games, regular season and playoffs. Shoot me!! I want to support my Thrashers. I want them to win the Stanley Cup. I’m “okay” with Don Waddell being fired one day, so long as he is replaced by someone BETTER. Which usually starts a litany of jokes about how hard that will be to do. But the fact is, someone a whole lot WORSE could come in. Truly. Yes, I wish this team were younger and faster. I believe Waddell will try to address these matters. I suspect Rucchin will be gone on prolonged IR. I have the feeling Dupuis and Belanger will get re-signed, responsibly. But if they aren’t re-signed responsibly, or at all, and the team isn’t as good as last year, I’m not going to throw my fellow Thrashers fans under the bus because they challenged Don’s accumen. Or for offering “alternative strategies” for building a team. People have the right to these opinions. They pay money to see this product. They take time out of their lives to watch it, and to promote it. And to raise awareness about hockey and the Thrashers. Fiiine by me. What’s wrong with that?

By SageofBluesland

May 20, 2007 9:58 AM | Link to this

The Sens GM, Muckler—a ‘real’ GM—criticized our brilliant Donny as the trade deadline concluded by stating that some teams (who were under pressure to make the playoffs because they haven’t been there before) were completely overpaying. Even our esteemed beat writer noted that this was a backhanded slap at Brilliant Don.

You see, the difference between the Sens and the Thrashers is the competence of those making the decisions. Muckler revamped his team before our very eyes by unloading overrated, overpaid ‘stars’ like Yashin and Hossa—and acquired younger, more talented, more clutch—and less Euro, stars in Spezza and Heatley…and they’re now in the Finals for the first time.

And we held a lead in our vaunted playoff run for all of a portion of one game…Oh, and by the way, over half of the teams in the league make the playoffs to begin with…I guess some are simply happy to be schedule-fodder for the real teams…

Don’t worry, though—Don will come up with a new slogan or new jersey for you…

By Brendan

May 20, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this

Through the years, Sage, quite a few former Senators have wound up here in Atlanta. Damian Rhodes, Shane Hnidy, Shawn MacEachern, Greg deVries, and Marian Hossa. There might be more. That’s all I could think of off the top of my head.

But you do have a good point in that we’ve watched the Senators remold its team by doing things that many fans would have questioned. Such as? For starters, they jettisoned top-salaried names. Yashin for Spezza (and Chara) has certainly worked out for them. Getting Heatley from Atlanta for only $4.5M per season, compared to Ilya’s $6.5M or Hossa’s $6.0M didn’t hurt them either. Heatley’s had two 50-goal campaigns for them, and topped the Century mark at least once as a Senator. The Sens lost Chara, but kept Redden, Phillips, etc.. Wade Redden was acquired by Ottawa, with Damian Rhodes, when Ottawa sent Don Beaupre, Martin Straka and Bryan Berard to the NY Islanders back in 1996. The Sens lost Pothier, who had been contributing well for them. But the Capitals offered Pothier 4-years/$10M and he took it. (Pothier was a former Thrasher who was traded for MacEachern and Ottawa’s 6th round draft choice, who turned out to be Goaltender Dan Turple.)

The Sens drafted Anton Volchenkov, 21st overall in 2000. They acquired Tom Preissing by trading Martin Havlat and Bryan Smolinski to Chicago. Ottawa also got a 2nd round pick in the 2008 draft in that deal with the Blackhawks. The Sens got Andrej Meszaros via the 2004 draft, 23rd overall. That’s at least two (he and Volchenkov) of their standing blueliners that Ottawa drafted in the 1st round. D-man Christoph Schubert was also drafted by Ottawa, 127th overall. Wait a minute! Wait a minute!! Wasn’t Chris Phillips, defenseman, the 1st overall pick back in 1996? Taken by Ottawa? I think he was. Ottawa also drafted Patrik Eaves, a starter for them, 29th overall, in the first round in 2003. The Sens drafted Mike Fisher in the 2nd round, 44th overall.

This isn’t bad drafting at all, Sage. How’d they get their Goaltender, Ray Emery? Well, there he is. Drafted by Ottawa, 99th overall, in 2001. Ottawa drafted Antoine Vermette 55th overall in 2000. Chris Kelly was taken 94th overall in 1999, by Ottawa. The Sens also got Havlat selected 26th overall, 1999, but he was traded for Preissing. In 1998, the Senators drafted Chris Neil 161st overall. In 1997, they drafted Jani Hurme, yet another Senator who would up here in Atlanta, 58th overall in 1997. In ‘97, the Sens picked Marian Hossa, 12th overall. Who Ottawa swapped out for the 2nd overall pick of 2000, Dany Heatley.

Are you seeing a pattern here? Sage, you may be on to something. I had no idea Ottawa drafted and managed its roster this well. I see the Sens picked up former Sabre, Leaf, and Red Wing Mike Foligno’s kid, Nick Foligno, 28th overall.

Dean McAmmond the Sens picked up as a free agent signing. He was taken 22nd overall, by Chicago, in 1991. The Sens got Peter Schaefer via trade with Vancouver for Sami Salo. Schaefer is a former 66th overall selection from 1995, by Vancouver. Joe Corvo the Sens got as a free agent signing. Corvo was drafted 83rd overall, in 1997, by Los Angeles. Their backup netminder, Martin Gerber, was signed as a free agent last Summer, when he parted ways with Carolina, after winning the Stanley Cup.

Sorry for this OTTTAWA UPDATE, folks. Sage, it’s YOUR FAULT for driving me down this road. I blame you. :)

By Eurostar

May 21, 2007 10:30 AM | Link to this

Sage, Can you name the leading goal scorer in the playoffs - hint also the Sens “C” as well as delivering the OT series winner against Buffalo? Daniel Alfreddson. Game winner against the Red Wings yesterday - noted Canadian Teemu Selanne. Top scoring D-man in playoffs - Medicine Hat’s Nicklas Lidstrom (Detroit “C” en route to 5th Norris) 4/10 top scorers in the playoffs and 7/15 are “eurostars”. Long live Don Cherry.

By Eurostar

May 21, 2007 10:40 AM | Link to this

Sage, Can you name the leading goal scorer in the playoffs - hint also the Sens “C” as well as delivering the OT series winner against Buffalo? Daniel Alfreddson. Game winner against the Red Wings yesterday - noted Canadian Teemu Selanne. Top scoring D-man in playoffs - Medicine Hat’s Nicklas Lidstrom (Detroit “C” en route to 5th Norris) 4/10 top scorers in the playoffs and 7/15 are “eurostars”. Long live Don Cherry.

By Headlines

May 21, 2007 11:46 AM | Link to this

Hi Craig - The AJC hockey coverage is actually comical - It seems every time there is a headline they can’t get it straight. Ducks are up 3-2 on Wings not 3-1. Maybe you can ask the editor why they can’t seem to relay info correctly for hockey.

By Brian

May 21, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this

So will all the bloggers who are talking about contracts right now name which players we should sign or do you guys only do that after the season is over?

By Bob

May 21, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

It should would be nice to get Kozlov inked. Don’t see how Waddell can afford him, however.

I think the problem Waddell has right now, is this hole he’s dug himself having 8 guys tying up $29m odd in Cap. That’s a cluster. This team cannot improve this year without some big move like Hossa being traded for 3 roster players, I would not be shocked to see that happen.

Nice article today on Popovic, he was the one that looked NHL ready early this year, not Coburn. Pops should be a solid 3/4 guy for us this year, and at $500k, that’ll help.

I am not happy about the prospect of Heatley skating a Cup, but he, Spezza, and Alfie sure are prime time players, I’d take any one of them on our team over any one of our guys. Let’s go, Ducks!

By Brendan

May 21, 2007 6:18 PM | Link to this

I’ve already covered who I think Don should sign, ad nauseum. He’s got 3 RFA’s, and two need qualifying offers as soon as possible: Exelby and McCarthy. Slater, I’m gonna pass on, but he can still be re-signed later.

It’s up to Don what he wants to do with Larsen, Boulton, Vigier, etc. It’s not the end of the world to re-sign these guys. They do know our system and should be had for something close to the league minimum. If it takes more than $515K per each, let ‘em go. At $515K, you can still trade them later for “throw away” draft picks or minor leaguers.

Jon Sim is worth re-signing at less than $900K. Shane Hnidy should get re-signed under $700K.

Dupuis and Belanger should be priority #1 for re-signing, before the price goes up. Dupuis for $1.0M and Belanger for $1.5M. This has been covered relentlessly, already.

I don’t care if Don waits ‘til September to sign them, as long as he gets a good deal on ‘em. I just think it’ll be harder to sign them later as opposed to now.

Of course, I’d like to keep Slava Kozlov. But I think his value exceeds our budget. If he wants to stay, he’ll have to take less. Andy Sutton and Greg deVries are probably gone.

I hope some of the kids get here. I really do! Rookie contract prices aren’t bad for Valabik, Sterling, Oystrick, Pavelec, LaVallee, etc. Popovic for $500K is another good deal.

I’d really like to see XLB and McCarthy come back. And Slater for the “right price.” But, we’ll just have to sit back and wait to see what happens. I’m rooting for Don. I hope he’s got some voodoo up his sleeve. And I hope Rucchin is done in Atlanta.

I’m okay with a Hossa trade, as long as there’s a “windfall of youthful talent” in exchange. And that the new talent is signed responsibly. If some unsigned RFA is part of the deal, I hope Don doesn’t just agree to the overinflated “sign-n-trade” terms for purposes of getting the deal done. For example, I like Michael Cammalleri (LA Kings), just not for $5-$6M. Relax, no one is saying and suggesting any deal for Cammalleri is in the works. Chill.