Thrashers

By Josh

June 29, 2007 6:00 PM | Link to this

I’m not sure why everyone (Waddell at least) is so confident in the D we have. People may disagree but I think if at all possible the best guy for us would be Priessing. Our PP was bordering on pathetic last year and he would be just what we need at the point. Try to land Kozlov but if it appears you will have to pay much more than the original offer, we’ll just have to part with him. Then focus on the center problem, I like Belanger but if he wants a big deal he is crazy and we need to look elsewhere, I like Stumpel if he’s not too pricey.

By N2Hockey

June 29, 2007 6:05 PM | Link to this

too much hassle for slava…like him, but hope he takes less then he might make elsewhere, otherwise see ya and bring in someone new….and bigger

By Craig Custance

June 29, 2007 6:35 PM | Link to this

Josh — Stumpel signed two-year deal with Florida.

By Josh

June 29, 2007 7:01 PM | Link to this

Oh yes he did didn’t he, has Handsuz inked yet? He’ll be too pricey though.

By R. Stroz

June 29, 2007 7:11 PM | Link to this

If Kozlov wants more than 3.2 million per year let him go and get some younger players like Comrie and Zubrus.

Or backload Kozlov’s contract when we aren’t paying for Holik and Rucchin.

Or better yet, find some way to move Holik and Rucchin’s money off the books, like unloading Holik and getting Rucchin on permanent IR.

By moo

June 29, 2007 7:23 PM | Link to this

Hey Craig, do those other 8 spots assume that guys like Sterling and Lavallee or Stuart are already added in? Or would a couple of uncounted rookies take a couple of 8 those spots?

If those guys aren’t counted in yet, that would make 6 guys for 9 mil. and maybe a little better odds.

By ranallo10

June 29, 2007 7:32 PM | Link to this

Josh — The defensive corps MINUS SUTTON AND DE VRIES will be an improvement (addition by subtraction, as Bob would say). Both had their shining moments, but Sutton was consistently inconsistent, and de Vries started showing his lack of youth and lack of speed as the season wore on.

I think everybody agrees that Preissing would be a huge improvement over almost everyone on the roster, but the problem is obviously how much he wants. With the salary limitations this team annually faces, I think Waddell has decided that the defense will need to prove itself as capable, meanwhile the offense will require the injection of a UFA or traded improvement.

R. Stroz — Backloading only helps in terms of how he’s paid by the team, the annual cap hit is averaged by the length of the contract. Paying a player $2M year one and $3M year two means you have a $2.5M cap hit each season.

By Jesse

June 29, 2007 7:47 PM | Link to this

Craig, thanks for the updates. I know a lot of us appreciate you digging up all this info.

I agree with R. Stroz that both Comrie and Zubrus would be excellent pick ups for us if we fail to lock up Kozzy. Maybe look to Fedotenko there to round out some scoring and some pp depth.

Did anyone else out there read about Jason Allison on TSN.ca today? He made quite a pitch for himself…almost enough to be convincing, until I remembered how slow he is.

A friend brought up an interesting thought today: What about Larsen for captaincy. I couldn’t come up with a good reason beyond the fact that he’s not a guy I think of immediately when I think about the Thrashers, and that’s not that good of a reason. Any takers?

By ranallo10

June 29, 2007 8:02 PM | Link to this

Jesse — There’ve been several Alternate captains over the last two seasons, and three are currently on the roster. Larsen’s never been designated as an Alternate, I don’t see how he’d make the jump to Captain right off the bat.

Locker room presence, unifying voice for the team, veteran “lead by example” player…these are typical roles a captain plays, and I don’t know how much of the first two traits Larsen possesses.

If Kozlov isn’t re-signed, and a captain doesn’t come out of left field (meaning someone like Larsen), I’d assume Hossa, Holik, or Havelid are next in line. My money is on Hossa, as I think the team would want to show their allegiance and appreciation to what he brings. If Kozlov is re-signed, I’d guess it’s between him and Hossa.

By LAC

June 29, 2007 8:03 PM | Link to this

Jesse GOOD thoughts…

Where do you side with these moves Brenden, our GM in hiding, that is he could do a better deal than waddell, but will never get the chance…

We still need to go ALL out, push the cap and go for broke this season or we may end up like Nashville.

By Craig Custance

June 29, 2007 8:28 PM | Link to this

Moo — I wasn’t counting those guys, so yeah, you could get another decent contract in there.

By R. Stroz

June 29, 2007 8:48 PM | Link to this

Ranallo10 - Thanks for the info on the cap hit being averaged over the length of the contract. I learned something new today.

Here’s an open question, at what price per year would you keep Kozlov? Conversely, at what price per year is Kozlov too expensive?

By ranallo10

June 29, 2007 8:56 PM | Link to this

R. Stroz — I’d be content with Kozlov being re-signed at $3.5M. I’d deem him too expensive at any cent above $4M. I’d still be happy he’s on the roster, but I’d be unhappy about how much for (similar to Holik).

By R. Stroz

June 29, 2007 9:38 PM | Link to this

Ranallo10 - The upper limit on Kozlov, from my perspective, would be 3.2 to 3.3M per year.

Anything over 3.3M and I would have used the money to try to re-sign KT. But, that’s water under the bridge now.

By moo

June 29, 2007 9:45 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the answer, Craig. Hopefully a couple of youngsters can play on the wings.

By Josh

June 29, 2007 10:32 PM | Link to this

Here’s a question I have, how much more would it cost to get Kariya over here, he can’t possibly want a lot more than Kozlov.

By LAC

June 29, 2007 10:36 PM | Link to this

Gotta remember Kozlov won HOW MANY GAMES in OT & Shootouts last season ????

Somebody said 14 points,without that where would we have been ????

I’d go $4M for 2 but that would be about the limit.

KT $3M for three and go after some GOOD UFA’s who can help.

Nobody here ever discussed Sheldon Sourey of MTL, Good Fit ????

Jason Blake, He KILLS US, he’d be worth a couple years too.

By R. Stroz

June 29, 2007 10:49 PM | Link to this

Josh - That’s an interesting question. Kariya’s numbers are dwindling year by year and he made 4.5M last year. I would think he could be had for a lot less than 4.5M and he is younger than Kozlov.

Based on the aforementioned information, 3.3 to 3.5m per year would seem like a reasonable price.

Good idea Josh!

By Brendan

June 29, 2007 11:01 PM | Link to this

Re: Kozlov … strictly from his perspective, he shouldn’t even consider taking anything less than $3.5 million per season. That’s probably “about” his value. But some team will offer $4 million. Or, they’ll offer more years than Atlanta at $3.75 million, or thereabouts. And $3.75 million is as high as I’d go. Okay. If Kozlov would do a one (1) year deal at $4.0 million, I’d have to think about it. But why on Earth would he do that? After the season he just had, he’s in prime pouncing position to land a 3-4 year deal, to end his career. He and Keith Tkachuk are in the same boat. They’re about the same age, looking to land that final contract before they retire. Both “probably” want to try to win a Cup before they exit, stage left.

I like Zubrus. I don’t know what he’d cost, though. About 3 weeks ago, I glanced over a bunch of possible UFA d-men and selected Preissing as a “nice candidate.” But what I didn’t include in that post, was that there with two blueliners within the division that had “some” value. They were Cory Sarich, Tampa Bay, and Bryan Allen, Florida. Truthfully, I haven’t peeked at their status. For all I know, they’ve re-signed. And I didn’t even peek at their numbers or make an estimated guess at what they’d cost. I basically only looked at them as … players who, if they didn’t get contracts, might want to STICK IT to their former teams, by facing them 8X a year. The uhh, flip side of such a strategy is … why didn’t their teams “renew” them? There must be a reason for it. If the reason was “cap space,” fine. If it’s any other reason, then it’s “not so good.”

For what it’s worth, I actually “trust” Don Waddell to go find some bargain basement guy, like a Shane Hnidy, to help boster the blueline, without breaking the bank. An easy trap to fall into … is to compare our blueline with say, Anaheim’s. Thud. We’re just not ready to compete for the Stanley Cup yet. The goal, as it stands right now, is to return to the playoffs. Which is hardly a “certainly” at this point. So, Don’s mission will be to hope that his blueline is just good enough to reach that goal. He can always “tweak” at the trade deadline, since, reportedly, the Thrashers will maintain “flexibility” for that purpose. And truthfully, that’s a very good strategy. Any team that maxes out its cap after training camp is taking a huge and very UNNECESSARY risk. And will have to pull off a trade during the season to undo the mess they created, if things don’t work out.

There is one more thing to consider about Bobby Holik. (Everyone leans in.) This ISSS his “contract year.” Said another way, if he doesn’t perform well, he won’t like his next contract. He’s not going to get $4.25 million ever again, as it is. But perhaps, with a 20-goal campaign, and a 50 to 55-point season, he could see $2.75 million in the Summer of 2008. I won’t rule out Holik as Captain. But if it’s true that Waddell intends to renew Hossa, longterm, a year ahead of schedule, then I suspect Hossa become the lead candidate to be Captain, provided that Kozlov isn’t re-signed. Had KT stayed, he would have been a good candidate, as well. A Captain should have a good amount of “tenure” in the NHL. I know the Penguins just made Sidney Crosby a Captain. At a tender age. But, perhaps, he is a “special exception.” Hossa has been in the league long enough now. And if he really gets seven (7) years/$56 million, then he’s our guy for the forseeable future. That puts him here even past Kovalchuk, whose contract expires in 2010.

By ranallo10

June 29, 2007 11:14 PM | Link to this

LAC — Souray should make more than $5M as a free agent, making him out of the Thrasher’s price range. His teammate, Andrei Markov, was signed for $5.75M. Kimo Timmonen is going to make $8M next season.

Timmonen — 13G, 42A, 55PTS, 42PIM, +20 Markov — 6G, 43A, 49PTS, 57PIM, +2 Souray — 26G, 38A, 64PTS, 135PIM, -28

Josh — As for Kariya…85PTS in 05-06, 76PTS 06-07. His points total is dwindling compared to his career production, but his overall body of work is far superior to Kozlov’s. At two years younger, relatively equal 06-07 stats, and far greater career stats, I’d bargain Kariya comes at a higher price. I’d bet he can get $4M+ as a UFA.

I personally don’t see any of the two aforementioned players (Souray and Kariya) coming to Atlanta.

By Brendan

June 29, 2007 11:21 PM | Link to this

Josh, good thinking on Kariya, but here’s why I suspect it won’t happen. Who has Atlanta as a “strong contender” for the Cup next season? Most are saying, without even knowing what the final roster will be, that Atlanta is far from assured of a playoff berth. Kariya can sign anywhere, since he’s unrestricted. That’s the POWER of unrestricted free agency. That power and flexibility even allows him to go to the team he wants … for LESS money.

Keep in mind, Kariya spent YEARS with the Ducks. He left, and they won the Cup without him. That can’t sit well with him. He may even want to try to return to the Ducks, at a discount, believing they can “repeat.” Ya never know. I won’t rule it out.

Kariya will have a lot of options. Glancing over contenders, well … Detroit’s been the #1 seed in the West three years running. Anaheim’s still quite good. Ottawa looks good. Buffalo’s still a contender. Pittsburgh is primed and ready. Dallas always has a fairly decent shot. If he just wants to stay in the West, he can look at Colorado, Minnesota, and Calgary.

With the cap going this high, I wouldn’t rule out Philadelphia, the “new Predators.” Folks, before you finish laughing hysterically. They now have Timmonen, Hartnell, Parent, Upshall, Simon Gagne, plus Antero Niittymaki (2-year deal) and Marty Biron in net. They have young players in Carter and Richards (And Parent). Who just shouted, “Don’t forget Braydon Coburn!?” Stop that. They’re also missing Keith Primeau very badly, but what can they do? Answer: Try to sign Kariya. Do the Flyers still have Hatcher and Rathje? That hurts, if they do.

Anywho … I think Kariya will “bypass” any Atlanta. He’s at the age where he must look to a contender with cap room. Or a contender willing to make cap room for him.

By N2Hockey

June 30, 2007 12:00 AM | Link to this

Larsen the captain? Oh geez, seriously, come on….I’m sure if that holik is here, he’ll be the next captain…although, i wish we could dump him.

Handzus would be a good pickup, loved him in Philly!

By N2Hockey

June 30, 2007 12:01 AM | Link to this

Larsen the captain? Oh geez, seriously, come on….I’m sure if that holik is here, he’ll be the next captain…although, i wish we could dump him.

Handzus would be a good pickup, loved him in Philly!

By R. Stroz

June 30, 2007 12:22 AM | Link to this

DW has less than 24 hours to re-sign players before they hit the open market.

TICK! TICK! TICK!

By LAC

June 30, 2007 12:32 AM | Link to this

Brenden,

Bryan Allen DID resign with FL a few weeks back.

By Wreckin & Thrashin

June 30, 2007 2:31 AM | Link to this

Craig, how are we going to improve this year and win a playoff game without a true number one center? I realize that ownership is in flux right now, but dang it, how the heck are the Thrashers supposed to get better when they lose players and don’t sign any in return? Unless anyone has forgotten, we still barely made the playoffs last year, and then stunk it up once we got there. We need a center to move the puck. Dang frustrating.

By B. Thenet

June 30, 2007 8:10 AM | Link to this

So DW does not plan on any upgrades at D or C?

You can forget about any hope at the playoffs if that is the case.

By Legion of thrash

June 30, 2007 8:15 AM | Link to this

Handzus is slowwwwww.

By BigAl

June 30, 2007 8:40 AM | Link to this

Hey guys

Let’s not forget that 14 Shootout goals for Koz don’t get included for “stats” purposes but a penalty shot does.

If you add them to his 80 points and he stays on #1 PP (he wasn’t after KT came to town) then Koz is more like a 100 point player!

You don’t honestly think that all of those rink wide - diagonal passes he makes to Hossa (getting past 2 0r 3 opponents) is just a fluke pass do you?

Give the man his due: 3 years $4 mil per year.

Make him Captain.

End of story.

By Craig Custance

June 30, 2007 10:52 AM | Link to this

B. Thenet - The Thrashers will be in the market for a center starting Sunday. How much they can spend depends on the kozlov situation. They won’t be in the Briere/Drury sweepstakes, Nylander is probably a little too pricey, it’s the next group they have a shot at. Maybe someone you can bring in for $2-3 million. The Belanger negotiations are big too, because if Rucchin is a question mark, then right now Holik is the only center signed.

By R. Stroz

June 30, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this

Craig - Any new news? Has KT officialy signed with the Blues? Any other notable information?

By LAC

June 30, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this

Salary cap is set at 50.3 million per team.

So… subtract the 2.5 if Rucchin is gone andwe have about $32 to spend.

Ok, so what do we do ? Sit on our hands ?

No… We should have a plan of attack and know who we want 1-2-3.

I would like to see Gomez,Blake,Zubrus, KT in Atlanta next year. Possible, maybe, likely 75% I believe.

Forget Drury, he isnot that good a player,playing with Buffalo made him better, he is likely a player who dries up with another team.

Is Sim gone ?

Let’s just hope our out of his league GM can muster enough BRAIN power this week to make The Atlanta Thrashers a BETTER Team than LAST SEASON…

A LOT of publications predict we will NOT make the playoffs next season… Remember That Folks !!! Time for our teams management to get mad and p** off and turn us into a TRUE Champion.

Lastly… ALL teams in the Eastern Confrence have been to the Cup Finals in their history… It’s our turn…

If a losuy team & season, FIRE waddell !

By Craig Custance

June 30, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

Stroz — Haven’t heard anything on Tkachuk.

By Legion of thrash

June 30, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this

LAC- Your comment about Drury leads me to believe that you don’t know anything about him. Drury happens to be one of the most clutch players in hockey, long before the sabres. I am pretty sure that he is second only to Joe Sakic in game winning goals in the playoffs.That is only one stat. You should look up his resume before you spat out that dribble in your earlier post.

By Brendan

June 30, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

I’m still not ruling out trades here, folks. If GM’s out there have their July 1st strategy in hand, (and they should,) then they’ve also got a plan to “dump salary,” too. It all depends on their cap situations, mind you.

So, what I am hoping for? Well, I’m hoping that some teams will be forced to jettison players, not because they WANT to, but because they NEED to. I’m looking at Buffalo, maybe New Jersey, as examples. Not that I think we should trade with either! I don’t feel like gettin’ FLEECED by Regier or Lamoriello. But if the Sabres really wanted to keep Briere AND Drury, it could be done. But say “bye-bye” to guys like Afinagenov. Maybe they even move a Paille, Pomminville, Paetsch, Spacek, Peters, Roy type. Yeah, wishful thinking on some of those. But the “general point” is … teams facing “cap issues” might be willing, at this 11th hour, to trade players they otherwise wouldn’t. Here is where Don Waddell can benefit. He might be able to land a guy in his mid-20’s to late 20’s, affordably priced, maybe even with some years left on the contract.

Yeah, I hear ya. What do we give up? Well, nobody wants to give up anything. But they’ll want picks or prospects. A “non-credible” source tells me the Sabres are not thrilled with Kotalik, Kalinin, and Spacek. I bet if Don Waddell were so inclined, he could approach Regier for a sign-n-trade involving Hnidy and McCarthy going to Buffalo for Kalinin and Spacek. Sabres save $$ and don’t get that much WORSE on defense. Spacek’s contract, I think, is 3 years/$10 million, with two years left on it. I think Kalinin is in the $2 million viscinity. (I didn’t check, okay!! Chill!!) What will Hnidy cost? $900K? Don Waddell got McCarthy on another bargain, $725K. McCarthy is 27, I think. Hnidy is 31 or 32. I bet Hnidy would LOVE to go to Buffalo. They’re still contending. This is the hope of most UFA’s.

But folks, c’mon now. Buffalo’s in our Conference. It’s not a good idea to trade with them. I was just giving a hypothetical.

By Brendan

June 30, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

I think Drury has some 17 playoff GWG’s. If I were Buffalo’s GM, there’s no frekkin’ way I’d let him walk over money. But sometimes, it’s not about money. It’s about a guy who wants a warmer climate and a California lifestyle. Uhh, you shouldn’t read too much into that. That remark wasn’t directed at Drury. I have a very healthy respect for Drury, from his college days to his Cup, to his clutch performances. Especially, this past year. He got HUGE and TIMELY goals for Buffalo, this year and last year.

Unfortunately, that means he now must get PAID. And PAID WELL. Probably $7 million. Maybe a little more.

By Thrashersfan33

June 30, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this

Well, the Belanger news sucks but I think many of us forget that most hockey players don’t have really long careers, so taking the opportunity to see what you are worth is simply common sense. I think we all need to be patient and see what DW can do. I admit that the first week may not be pretty (meaning the Thrashers probably won’t make a big signing and we will see many players come off the market and many of you will start screaming) but they say many quality players may be left in the cold like Dumont last season, so maybe we will be lucky and surprise the critics with some late signings.

And while I want the Thrashers to get better, let me remind those of you who want Hartley gone, the only way for that to happen is for them to get worse.

Well, tomorrow will be interesting, but hopefully some patience will lead to some financially wise decisions by the Thrashers and the young guns in Chicago can make a positive impact once they take the next step.

By sisu

June 30, 2007 3:14 PM | Link to this

OK, so all of you wishing DW & Hi Bob to be gone…who would you bring in?

Sad to see Belanger not signed yet.

By Brendan

June 30, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

Thrashersfan33, we’re gonna find out if Hartley really can “coach young talent” outside of the Avalanche organization this season. Let’s see how he does. But if he can’t do it, which won’t be a surprize to some, then you may be right. Especially if Hartley’s contract really is a one-year deal. And even if it isn’t, they’re not going to keep a coach whose performance they don’t like. They’ll cut their losses, in that circumstance. But don’t hold your breath for profound, immediate change, either. Someone has to WANT to come here, in the midst of this ownership fiasco. Again, some “assistant coach” who just wants a chance would take it. Ummn. There’s good and bad in that. The bad is that we don’t really know what we’re getting. The good is … it’s some young guy, with bags of enthusiasm, who can possibly relate to young players and “coach ‘em up.” Again, let’s see what ACTUALLY HAPPENS before we invent “worst case scenarios.” I know, the temptation to do just that is overwhelming. Suppress it. Find a way to suppress it. I’m holding off DW’s offseason report card until training camp ends and we actually see a finalized roster.

And, keep in mind, even “that roster” won’t be the one that finishes the year. Just look at training camp last year. Rewind the clock to October 2006. Bloggers here were “skeptical” that DW’s roster could be a playoff team. They came out strong, built up a healthy cushion in October and November. Trailed off in December. And went into a full-fledged FREE FALL in Jan./Feb. Help came at the trade deadline in the form of Zhitnik, Belanger (a little earlier, actually), Dupuis, and Keith Tkachuk. Hardly the lineup we had coming out of training camp. But, keep in mind, we’re running “thin” on draft picks to give away at the deadline this year. I sincerely hope we get to keep that 1st rounder in 2008, not deal it away.

If the wheels fall off, that 1st rounder could be a high one, possibly in the hands of a new GM. Or, that pick (1st rounder 2008) can be dealt for NHL players to help out right away for the 2008-09 season. I want to think positively. I’m still thinking “playoffs” and trying to repeat as Southeast Division Champions.

By sisu

June 30, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

(http://www.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?post_id=8312) Update on Keith?

By Tony H

June 30, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

Does anyone on this blog have any update or idea as to what the state of the ownership lawsuit is? This thing has dragged on forever. Is there any end in sight?

By R. Stroz

June 30, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

The players in Chicago are starting to pack their bags!

Time to go South young men!

Eight hours left and only one non-RFA re-signed (Larsen).

TICK! TICK! TICK!

By Brendan

June 30, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this

Tony H., I have no idea. That’s why I’ve been asking Custance. Tim Tucker is the guy assigned to that story, however.

By Legion of thrash

June 30, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this

I am not worried about Bellanger, he can go play for someone else. He is not a top 2 center.

By R. Stroz

June 30, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this

Legion of Thrash - I agree on Belanger, he can be replaced. I would have thought he would have been happy to stay knowing that the Thrashers wanted him when he was surplus waste at Carolina. Oh well.

On another hand, Sim can’t be replaced easily. He has grit.

If DW doesn’t re-sign Sim, I’ll be pi$$ed.

By Brendan

June 30, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this

That’s the thing about Belanger, Legion of Thrash. Where will he get MORE ICE TIME than Atlanta? He’ll get a chance on the 2nd line here. Will he get that chance, ELSEWHERE? (Shaking head, “no.” He’ll play on the 3rd line.) Perhaps Belanger is gambling on “perception” out there that Waddell’s trade deadline moves would be viewed merely as “rentals” if he can’t re-sign them. It does, sort of, look bad for Waddell. But that is and isn’t true. If his rentals “walk” and Waddell replaces them with BETTER PLAYERS, who’ll really care?? It’ll be viewed as “ancient history.” Now, if he doesn’t replace Dupuis and Belanger with suitable substitutes, then he’ll endure more of the “fire Waddell” chants. Nothing says DW can’t re-sign them in FREE AGENCY. Belanger and Dupuis may find that they cannot really “fetch” what they’re bluffing about on the open market. Dupuis is worth $1.0 million. Belanger is worth $1.5 million. GM’s paying more than that will be wasting valuable cap room to sign other players.

I’m still hoping there are “good players” out there who have merely fallen out of favor in their various camps, and are EAGER to make a fresh start elsewhere, even in Atlanta.

If it helps, think how players like McCarthy and Metropolit felt last year, lookin’ in from the OUTSIDE. Not part of “Hartley’s guys.” Now, McCarthy did get re-signed. Boulton was a healthy scratch a good bit of the time, too. If there are players like this around the league, who coach “won’t play ‘em,” and are UFA’s or RFA’s who didn’t get qualfying offers, then Don can swoop in and pick them up, a little on the cheap, perhaps. And they just might contribute in a meaningful way.

By LAC

June 30, 2007 5:09 PM | Link to this

Hey Legion of whatever… Drury is an example of how a player is good on a specific team. He would crash in say LA…

He was TRADED to The Flames and was NOTHING to speak of there, he was an above average player in Buffalo until last season when he had a solid year.

So, go read YOUR facts, know WHO he played for before reacting like a stuckup know-it-all… OK ?

By connie

June 30, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this

I agree with big al-3 years at $4 million is fair market for Kozlov. Also, make him captain-he deserves it.

By Brendan

June 30, 2007 6:00 PM | Link to this

Uhh, we all do remember Waddell said he’d try to re-sign Hossa now, as in THIS OFFSEASON, to a multi-year deal.

So? So what?

Heavy sigh. Running my fingers through my hair. When you overpay for a contract, it doesn’t just hurt you for ONE year. It hurts you EVERY year. Look at Holik’s deal. Allright stop. We’ve beat that to DEATH. If you go pay Slava $4 million for 3-4 years, he’s not getting any younger. And his cap problem will linger on. All while Kari, Slater, Little, Valabik, Pavelec, Sterling, Exelby and even Kovalchuk’s contracts come due. Don’t laugh, Ilya hits the market in 2010. Okay, stop. It’s not time to worry about #17 just yet. But the point is … there are ramifications and consequences for over-reaching on ANY player’s contract. Be that in PRICE or LENGTH of contract. Think about the future. Not just this upcoming season. Slava is 34 years old, in a league that emphasizes youth and speed and physical longevity over 82-games. The age at which it is said that players become particularly vulnerable and susceptible to injury begins at 34-35 years old. As a geneal “go by.”

Plus, as Ranallo has pointed out, astutely, it’s up to Slava what he wants. DW could offer $5 million. If he doesn’t want to play here, then he doesn’t want to play here. And that’s it.

Now, let me ask you this. Think Hossa’s gonna come cheap? Hmmn? Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha. Ahhh, yes. He’s gotta GET PAID. There’s no two-ways about that. A “discounted” price would be $8.0 million. That’s Hossa being a “nice guy.” He can command the league max, $10,060,000. Folks, that’s 20% X $50.3 million.

If Hossa hits the open market NEXT YEAR, the cap can rise even higher than that, folks. And if Hossa puts up YET ANOTHER 40-goal season, and 80 to 100-points, he’ll get a GM to pay it, whether it’s Don Waddell or someone else. That’s an UNBELIEVABLE track record. Then what does Kozlov’s $4.0 million do to our situation? And he’s not getting any younger. Translation: He’ll be harder to move in a trade. Not with 2-3 more years left on that contract. Okay? Are you feelin’ it? Kozlov is a fantastic trade deadline move for any team out there. He may not be the greatest “longterm contract” for a team, though. But for Slava, he’s coming off a great season, he needs to find a contender, or any team, willing to pay him his “final contract.” Or take a discount to finish here. NHL are “guaranteed.”

Of course, I hope Slava stays. But there economic realities at play. This market isn’t Toronto, where a team can charge whatever it wants, and the people and corporations will pay it. Hockey is not part of the cultural landscape of Georgia, historically. It’s a “niche” sport here. By most accounts, this team “scrapes along,” financially. Realistically, it won’t spend $50.3 million. It might spend closer to $42.3 million. And even that “may” be operating at a loss, without revenue-sharing. And we don’t know how much that is. Sorry for the length of this post.

By R. Stroz

June 30, 2007 6:38 PM | Link to this

Has anyone else entertained the idea of trying to pry the Rangers hands off Marcel Hossa for some form of consideration?

By Thrashers27

June 30, 2007 6:51 PM | Link to this

I have been saying that since even before the regular season ended. Marian and Marcel would be great together!

By Brendan

June 30, 2007 6:58 PM | Link to this

Bring on the Hossa brothers! Someone has been callin’ for that … since FOREVER. I never did look into Marcel’s contract situation and salary.

By Legion of thrash

June 30, 2007 7:06 PM | Link to this

Marcel made 600,000 last season. He is a UFA this season.

By ranallo10

June 30, 2007 7:08 PM | Link to this

I’ve said before that their names would look funny on the uniforms…”Mari” and “Marc” Hossa.

But yeah, Thrasher27 has been saying that for a while. I agree though, Marcel showed he can play this past season, so it’d be tough to pry him from New York.

By Thrashers27

June 30, 2007 7:10 PM | Link to this

Marcel just re-upped with the Rangers last year. I don’t remember the exact amount, but it wasn’t too much.

By Thrashers27

June 30, 2007 7:16 PM | Link to this

Who cares what their unis would look like. That sounds like something a woman would be concerned with.

They would be a great combo and Marcel actually produced in the post season. Maybe some of that would rub off on big bro and Marian’s play would rub off on Marcel during the regular season.

By Legion of thrash

June 30, 2007 7:31 PM | Link to this

KT has resigned with the blues. Their first names don’t have to be on the jersey, the Neidermayers only have their last name on their jersey’s.

By sisu

June 30, 2007 7:33 PM | Link to this

So if we look forward one year…. No Holik no $4 mil. No Ruchin no $ 2.5 mil

So signing a Kozlov for say 3.5 to 4 mil would not be bad. He is a proven veteran and if you pair him with either of the two big guns then the sky is the limit!

By R. Stroz

June 30, 2007 7:33 PM | Link to this

KT signs with the Blues. Done deal.

By The Falconer

June 30, 2007 7:34 PM | Link to this

Tkachuk has resigned with the Blues according to their team website.

By ranallo10

June 30, 2007 7:35 PM | Link to this

Please tell me I don’t need to qualify such a statement with the note (sarcasm) from now on…

By Thrashers27

June 30, 2007 7:40 PM | Link to this

Crap! I really wanted to see Tkachuk back here more than I wanted to see Kozzie sign.

By R. Stroz

June 30, 2007 7:41 PM | Link to this

I guess a few of us were keeping an eye on KT :)

By Craig Custance

June 30, 2007 7:42 PM | Link to this

Tkachuk’s a done deal.

By ranallo10

June 30, 2007 7:45 PM | Link to this

Legion, the Neidermayer’s have R. and S. designations in front of their name. Typical practice is to put first initial, if they match, first few initials, if they match, full name. Mike Anderson had his full name on his Broncos uniform (as an example), but I’ve yet to see it in hockey.

However, my uniform post was in humor…

By ranallo10

June 30, 2007 7:52 PM | Link to this

Fernandez traded to Boston…no surprise there really. However, a 4th rounder and Peter Kalus in return, I’m thinking the Wild might not have gotten enough.

By Thrashers27

June 30, 2007 8:03 PM | Link to this

I think its dumb when people put their entire name on a jersey. I think that most often it’s because a player thinks he’s bigger than the team and wants to see his name emblazoned on his clothing. I believe this is why we haven’t seen this hockey, but you see it in football quite a bit. There are very few players that are that obnoxious in the NHL. Most NHL players are quite humble and care more about the team.

…but I digress…If the Hossa boys really wanted to screw with folks they could wear “18” and “81” for numbers.

By The Falconer

June 30, 2007 8:04 PM | Link to this

ranallo10: I’m actually surprised to see that they MIN anything considering how much money Fernandez was due. Salary dumps are not easy to pull off.

By R. Stroz

June 30, 2007 8:19 PM | Link to this

At this point, I don’t think anyone is going to be re-signed. DW should have re-signed players before the new cap numbers came out. With the new cap numbers, players saw a better chance to get more money and will test the free agent market.

Procrastinators always lose and then make up excuses for not getting the job done correctly.

By ranallo10

June 30, 2007 8:26 PM | Link to this

TheFalconer — good point. Salary dumping wise, it’s different getting rid of Fernandez’s contract compared to Khabibulan’s. I don’t expect Chicago to get as much in return, but I thought Fernandez would garner Minnesota at least a 3rd rounder and prospect.

Thrashers27 — To my understanding uniforms are controlled by the team first, and governed by the team. NFL players need to get approval for any tiny change they make to their uniform, and are often met with resounding “no’s” or monetary fines. Chad Johnson is an example, with his “Ocho Cinco” tag he wore DURING WARMUPS. He took it off for game time but was still fined by the NHL. However, he’s an outlier. Mike Anderson was on the same team as several other Anderson’s, and there was another person with an “M” first initial — the way to alleviate this uniform problem was put “Mi” or “Mike”, and they went with “Mike.”

I know what you mean with the self promotion, and I definitely agree. The leagues do however clamp down on what is allowed…Pacman wasn’t allowed to put “Pacman” on his uniform; Vince Young wasn’t allowed to have “V. Young” on his (no other Young on the roster).

By R. Stroz

June 30, 2007 8:31 PM | Link to this

Craig - Thank you for all of the updates and prompt responses to our questions.

In your opinion, are the Thrashers done negotiating for the day?

By Thrashersfan33

June 30, 2007 8:58 PM | Link to this

Once again people are getting on DW’s case for not signing players and not giving the players and their AGENTS any credit. You are saying that DW should have signed players before the cap number came out. Umm…I think the players and agents knew the cap was going up, so why would they rush to sign anything DW offered them vs. waiting to test the open market? What happens if DW did sign people and then we find out he paid too much, then many of you would be on his case for overpaying. Make up your mind. I love the fact that we can express our thoughts, but I agree with Brendan that the calling for DW’s head should be held until at least opening day. It isn’t until then that teams have to be under the cap, so there will always be last minute salary dumping and trades.

With Belanger’s agent being the same as Briere’s, I have a hard time believing that he would have signed before July 1st whether he was a free agent with the Thrashers or any other team.

By R. Stroz

June 30, 2007 9:40 PM | Link to this

Thrashersfan33 - Aren’t you somewhat disappointed that the only UFA re-signed is Larsen?

The Thrashers could have attempted to lock up a few more players earlier than a week before the free agent date. First, we were told Dupuis wanted too much money. Next, Belanger wanted to try free agency. Now, we aren’t hearing anything positive concerning Sim and Kozlov. If I was a conspiracy theorist, I would say the fans are being let down a little at a time. I was glad to see Devries and Sutton go somewhere else.

Is it possible that these players see a problem with the Thrashers organization above and beyond the owners group? I don’t know. However, it doesn’t speak well of the organization if it can only retain one UFA.

Several bloggers had said that the Thrashers needed to re-sign players before the end of the season before the price went up. Now, the price has gone up and the Thrashers don’t appear to have the desire to meet the changing market. Everyone knew the cap was going up; but, few estimated the cap would exceed 50 million.

Consequently, procrastinating has proven costly.

By Sage of Bluesland

June 30, 2007 10:41 PM | Link to this

Going with my optomistic instincts, I see the silver lining in the procrastination of our Brilliant Donny, the great obfuscator…See, when we fail to even make the playoffs this year (in Year Eight), he will be fired unceremoniously, no longer able to infect it any longer with his bluster and incompetence…

I look forward to that blog, I can assure you…I just hope some of the renowned Waddellites come forth and participate—and not partake in any revisionist history (i.e. I ‘knew’ he wasn’t a good GM; I ‘said’ his decisions were bad; etc. ad nauseam)…

You know who you are.

By Craig Custance

June 30, 2007 10:50 PM | Link to this

There won’t be a Kozlov deal tonight.

By Brendan

June 30, 2007 10:58 PM | Link to this

Can’t believe I’m gonna say this. But I hope revenues plummet this year. This cap needs to come down to help our market. The $34.3 million FLOOR is almost at the “break even” point, if rumblings are true. Which, of course, I can’t prove. And won’t argue.

Heavy sigh. Yes, I wanted Dupuis and Belanger locked up in April. I screamed about it in May. I was told, “Chill. Besides, no one’s gonna pay either Belanger or Dupuis some outrageous salary.” But, the truth is … UFA’s hold all the cards. They can have their agents tell the GM’s … “we won’t negotiate until July 1.” Sounds kinda familiar, no? Sounds a bit similar to, “I won’t negotiate contracts DURING THE SEASON.” Quid pro quo, I guess.

Translation: “You won’t negotiate with me during the season. I won’t negotiate with you until Free agency.”

From February on, the “cap figure” I heard bandied about, from the NHLPA Union rep, was $47.5 million. Craig countered with, “I’m hearing more like $46 million, not $47.5.” It turns out the actual cap limit is $50.3 million. This is our first year with a “fraction,” not some even number. The 2006 cap was $39.0 million. The 2007 cap was $44.0 million.

Folks, we don’t know that Belanger and Dupuis are gone. But if they have no intentions of signing in Atlanta, then there’s nothing Waddell can do anyway. Even overpaying for them wouldn’t keep them if they’ve made up their minds to leave. Now, to be clear, these two, Belanger and Dupuis, have been in negotiations with Waddell, per the message traffic on this board. So, at least, it wasn’t a case of, “I won’t take your phone calls ‘til July 1.” I just think these two could have been approached immediately after the Thrashers were eliminated from the playoffs. That’s my opinion. Instead, the organization did some scouting. Signed some prospects. Had the draft. (Didn’t trade anyone from off the roster.) And then tendered qualifying offers, while locking up Brad Larsen on a two-year deal, along with McCarthy for one.

Brendan, you harp too much on Belanger and Dupuis, I hear you say. “Maybe. But they didn’t fair horribly last year. Why wouldn’t you want to bring them back, at a fair price?” Okay, Brian’s right. I/we don’t know what Don Waddell’s “vision” is. What we’ve heard him say is … he was disappointed in the Hossa, Belanger, and Kozlov line, being critical of Belanger and Kozlov while praising Hossa. Reading between the lines a bit, maybe Belanger, and even Kozlov, really aren’t part of Waddell’s “vision.” I don’t remember him saying anything about Dupuis, one way or the other. The knock on Dupuis is that he tends to be a bit of a “Maverick.” Ask him if he wants to leave a practice if he doesn’t like the way it’s being run, and you might just see elbows and skate blade soles as he departs the ice surface, bound for the lockerroom. That was Minnesota, not Atlanta. So, I don’t really know.

I do hope we can keep Dupuis. I loved his speed. He seemed tenacious. I liked that. But I am withholding an offseason Grade of Waddell until after training camp. But I want to add something. Hartley has final “say so” on the roster. So, if he wants to sit McCarthy again, McCarthy will sit. If he doesn’t want to play Popovic, then he won’t. But Popovic’s gonna get paid as an NHL players no matter what jersey he’s wearing. I think Waddell will intervene a bit … into matters of roster decisions. I don’t know if Hartley’s gonna like that too much. But Waddell does have the authority to fire him, with Belkin’s consent.

By B. Thenet

June 30, 2007 11:01 PM | Link to this

“You have to look beyond your defense”- Don Waddell

So this summer will be all about forwards. He better get plenty of good ones if he is serious about heading into next season with the D he has now.

By N2Hockey

June 30, 2007 11:08 PM | Link to this

Please god sign sim

By Brendan

June 30, 2007 11:09 PM | Link to this

I won’t “blame” Waddell for losing Kozlov, if he is lost. I like to think I’m a “reasonable” person. I think “reasonable people” understand the economics of the cap. Some will make the arguement that he could have approached Kozlov sooner. They’ll say, “hey, if he can re-sign HOSSA a year ahead of schedule, why didn’t Waddell do that LAST Summer with Kozlov?”

I don’t know how I’d react to that. Kozlov had a tremendous year. Did we think he’d have a year THAT GOOD, last Summer? It’s a fair question. Kozlov performed well in his “contract year.” He deserves the “windfall” he might receive in this period of FREE AGENCY.

Maybe if Waddell had attempted to renew him, and it failed, it would send a mixed message to the season ticket holders. Who knows? I’m sure Brian will now enter the fray to tell me, “Brendan, how do you know he didn’t try to negotiate with Kozlov LAST SUMMER. What’s more, he’s not obligated to tell you diddly squat.”

Point taken. Sheesh.

By David

June 30, 2007 11:45 PM | Link to this

Okay, I just wanted to chime in on a few things.

Everybody is missing why Kozlov is valuable. Two words, Ilya Kovalchuk. The production we get out of Kozlov is a great bonus, but make no mistake his value is in his ability to mature Kovy. I don’t care what anybody says about the Thrashers, Kovy is the heart and soul of this team. He’s the energy. So the question with Kozlov to me is simple…do we need him in that role anymore? I don’t think it would hurt, but at some point I want to put Kovalchuk out there and say, go lead your team.

Hossa is a great player and a fan favorite, but he is not the heart of the team. If I had to trade one of the two I would trade Hossa every time, and it’s not because he isn’t a great player. You look at teams around the league and you associate players with teams. Mike Modano and the stars, iginla with the flames, sundin with the leafs, lidstrom with the wings, kovalchuk with the thrashers.

My personal belief is our first priority has to be making the good players we have better. Can we please go find a center who can give our goal scorer the puck. Sign belanger and kozlov to fill out the hossa line that was great up until the playoffs.

I just think if we continue to have Kovalchuk playing with second rate players he’ll never be as good as he can be.

By ranallo10

July 1, 2007 12:00 AM | Link to this

Brendan — Kozlov was signed to a one year contract last season. Waddell did negotiate with him. For all we know, it was Kozlov’s prerogative to take the single year contract. Get off the hindsight 20-20 statements, please.

Sage — you seem to misunderstand all “Waddellites” on this board. I don’t know anybody who’s said “Don Waddell is an amazing GM, and I’d hate to see him leave this team.” Most people, myself included, have continually stated that Waddell is a “FINE” GM, and no worse than half the GMs in the league. If I had a choice of any GM to lead this team, my first choice wouldn’t be Waddell. However, I don’t have that choice, I’m not the owner(s)…so in place of making that choice, I decide to be content with what we have. Your continual complaining about Waddell gets you nowhere, as you’re speaking to FANS, not to the ownership group. You’re wasting your time complaining about a person that you can’t control. We all now understand you hate obfuscating prognosticating people. We understand. Give it up, and move on. Find someone else to complain about. Also, try to find different words to use when complaining about said person.

R. Stroz — let’s look at this in another few months before we decide Waddell’s “procrastinating has proven costly”.

Jesus, all of the Stuart Little’s have come out today…it’s July 1st, hockey doesn’t start until October.

By Sage of Bluesland

July 1, 2007 7:31 AM | Link to this

Ranallo (or the self-designated advice-giver for this blog)—Bluster by yourself and your buddy Brilliant Donny noted…I’ll continue, thank-you-very-much…

Yet you’re dead wrong when it comes to fans not having any impact. The fans are, in fact, the MOST important variable in the equation for ownership to consider. After all, what do the owners covet? Why, it’s simple (and I think even you can get down from your high-horse and understand this): the hard-earned DOLLAR in OUR pocket. Period.

Influence the cash flow and watch how fast action is taken. Did you not see how fast Arthur Blank (owner of Atlanta Falcons) took action at the close of last season, especially when a hardcore group of FANS placed their own, self-paid, advertisement in the AJC, voicing their concerns for the direction of the team? Little Jimmy Mora led the firings as the NFL offseason commenced.

Before you begin your predictable blustering counter/advice of “That wasn’t the only reason”—I concur; however, if you don’t think it was ONE of the factors, then you’re dead wrong.

I have stopped subsidizing what I perceive as incompetence, and I encourage others to follow suit. I do this because, in fact, I DO care about this team.

I will continue to do so…Brilliant Donny provides much of the ammunition—thus, he doesn’t seem to talk as much to the media…Then again, it’s easy to have such bold ‘visions’ in the first year of a “Five-Year-Plan” with a new franchise.

Could we do ‘worse’ with a new GM? Absolutely. That is a definite fear of mine. However, refusal to take action in the attempt to get ‘better’ is also not acceptable. Which is the worst of these two ‘evils’?

Keep trying until ‘better’ is achieved. Empty-promises and obfuscation can be spotted a mile away—and needs to be corrected before it’s too late…Desperate blusterers do desperate things, usually in the vain attempt to save their own skin—and we’re witnessing brilliant Donny doing just that.

The gig is almost up…

By lew39

July 1, 2007 8:28 AM | Link to this

I am watching/reading all I can as next season unfolds. I am not in any way please with the current situations on signing. Not spending or exceeding budget seems to be more important that building on last years’s learnings.

I am concerned we are in a rebuilding mode with a less than spectacular base of players.

I will give us one more year as a season ticket holder an d if we aren’t “much” better than last year, I am gone. How can management continue to ask the fans to wait.

By LAC

July 1, 2007 9:05 AM | Link to this

Well KT signed with the Blues, YET ANOTHER STUPID AS H—- move by the sports WORST GM. Sage you are 110% correct, this waddell CLOWN is faceless and GUTLESS, not only does he do nothing, he continues to make these mind boggling STUPID moves and the team is worse for it.

The way I now look at it, we will sign NOBODY of importance and go into year what of plan what. waddell sure has ZERO clue.

Watch what Carolina does, bet they compete for the EAST next season why… they have an EXCELLENT GM and EXCELLENT OWNER, Period.

This circus act is pushing me away, I did NOT reup for my companies 4 season tickets and I will NEVER as long as DUMB waddell is in control… Not to mention these STUPID out of their league owners.

Bet several of our RFA go too… just a gutting of the team that is starting, 18 & 17 won’t stick around for this farce much longer, MUCH BETTER RUN TEAMS who have a chance to WIN out there to stay for another YEAR OF THE PLAN !

By LAC

July 1, 2007 9:11 AM | Link to this

NO rannallo10 YOU ARE 100% WRONG.

Kozlov’s contract had an option in it and all stupid waddell had to do was pick it up, he did. No talking no nothing, just like you waddell lovers like, GET YOUR FACTS CORRECT PLEASE.

P.S. Take more advice from SAGE he is CORRECT 100% of the time !

By LAC

July 1, 2007 9:26 AM | Link to this

Great to hear from Craig… Who does ONE OUTSTANDING JOB !!!!!!!

That we are looking at SECOND TIER players… will we be in 1st place in March next season…VERY doubtful !

By LAC

July 1, 2007 9:26 AM | Link to this

Great to hear from Craig… Who does ONE OUTSTANDING JOB !!!!!!!

That we are looking at SECOND TIER players… will we be in 1st place in March next season…VERY doubtful !

More like 4th.

By LAC

July 1, 2007 9:26 AM | Link to this

Great to hear from Craig… Who does ONE OUTSTANDING JOB !!!!!!!

That we are looking at SECOND TIER players… will we be in 1st place in March next season…VERY doubtful !

More like 4th.

By Bob

July 1, 2007 9:43 AM | Link to this

David, You are right on the mark. Ilya Kovalchuk is the heart and soul of our team. He is a dynamic, explosive player. Nothing away from Hossa or anyone else, but Ilya drives our success. Our record when Ilya registered a point was something like 33-11, by far more impactful than anyone else. Other teams clamp down on him first. He also showed up in the playoffs. Obviously, Kozzie, Hossa and Kari did not. Kozzie’s value is the connection with Ilya.

The other thing that gets me is that so many on these blogs don’t seemingly understand business. Our revenues only support a payroll in the high 30’s. Same with many other teams.

By Tony C.

July 1, 2007 9:50 AM | Link to this

OK the puck is in play…. I wonder where everyone will end up?

Quick thoughts:

Fernandez deal: Wow, opinion went south on him in a hurry! I think this guy is a solid #1 in the league…not a superstar, but certainly a more-than-capable pro…I would have thought Min