Thrashers

By Daniel

July 4, 2007 12:06 PM | Link to this

sweet. 3.6 million per? I was hearing 4 million was the price he was getting from other teams. Maybe he gave us a hometown discount? Glad to have you back Kozzie.

By aroha

July 4, 2007 12:12 PM | Link to this

SHUT UP! Is this July 4th Fools??? I will hate you if it is!

By dugoutGA

July 4, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

woooo hooooo!!!

By dugoutGA

July 4, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this

woooo hoooooo!!

By JayBird

July 4, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this

That is the best news I have heard in a long time. Definitely a great 4th of July gift to all Thrashers fans.

By Jason

July 4, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this

Who needs fireworks on the 4th when you got The Professor?!?!

I think they knew it all along and just wanted to tell us on the 4th… a nice 4th of July present.

The Professor is BACK!!!

By moo

July 4, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this

Thank you Don and Slava!

By Legin of thrash

July 4, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this

Glad to see Kozlov re- signed, I really didn’t think we would be able to do it.

By Pickle

July 4, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this

Good news, I guess this means no more FA signings. We can only hope for trades, which means our roster is set. Not the roster I was hoping for!

By The Falconer

July 4, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

If I had some fireworks I’d shoot one off after this news.

By Thrashersfan33

July 4, 2007 12:46 PM | Link to this

THANK YOU KOZZY! I am almost certain he could have gotten more money elsewhere. Maybe he knows something we don’t. Maybe DW told him of other plans. Hmmmmm.

Actually, the roster may not be what we all imagined, but I think DW did well to sure up the D (while still giving guys time to develop in Chicago if we need them late in the season) and we still have Lets, Kovy, Hossa and now Kozzie.

There is still time for trades and last minute signings (Marcel Hossa, Petr Prucha would be nice), so as of now, I am happy. I would like to see what some of our young, fast guys can do at the NHL level too.

By Brian

July 4, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this

I thought I wouldn’t see any fireworks until tonight! Great news.

Craig - you eluded to this earlier I believe that if Kozzy is signed, we are done with FAs. So is our roster set? Can we officially start playing with line combinations (that means you Brendan & Hokie). Oh yeah Craig, I still want to hear your thoughts on that Top Gun theory…

Sage - does this mean that DW is the fastest GM in hockey? Afterall, weren’t you and others saying that he was doing absolutely nothing in pursuing Kozzy? And then BOOM he’s signed. Or are guys like Ranollo and myself making sense when we say that we don’t know what DW is doing on the phone or behind closed doors so don’t make all these wild accusations that he is not moving on these FAs?

By Thrasher316J11

July 4, 2007 12:48 PM | Link to this

Slavamatic is back and that is huge to us.

I like the line of Hossa/White/Kozlov, and Perrin/Holik/Kovalchuk isnt too bad either. Little worried kovy will be ahead of the class again this year but Holik could make it work he is an experienced veteran. Think about how Mellanby got it done when fresh just with experience and skill. Lets see if we cant make a trade to improve those bottom two lines. Move holik maybe though that would mean Rucchin back at center for Kovy. Oh how that will just p** me off royally.

The next question is how much will X get in arbitration?

By Nate

July 4, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this

For all those that want to start line combinations you MAY need to hold off on that. Rumor on hockeybuzz.com of the Oilers being interested in trading for Holik. Take with a grain of salt, but I have little doubt the DW would like to rid himself of that $4 million dollar checking center.

By Nate

July 4, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this

For all those that want to start line combinations you MAY need to hold off on that. Rumor on hockeybuzz.com of the Oilers being interested in trading for Holik. Take with a grain of salt, but I have little doubt that DW would like to rid himself of that $4 million checking center.

By Nate

July 4, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this

For all those that want to start line combinations you MAY need to hold off on that. Rumor on hockeybuzz.com of the Oilers being interested in trading for Holik. Take with a grain of salt, but I have little doubt that DW would like to rid himself of that $4 million checking center.

By Craig Custance

July 4, 2007 1:02 PM | Link to this

aroha - Now July 4th joke.

Brian - Now that Kozlov is signed, I have time to talk theory, but I’m not familiar with any Top Gun theory.

As for other moves, I think Don Waddell’s exact words were, “That’s it for awhile.”

By JayBird

July 4, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this

Hnidy to Anaheim. I am probably one of the few on here that liked him. I would have loved to see him resigned here but didn’t work out.

By RS

July 4, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this

Whether you wanted Kozlov re-signed or not, it’s nice to know that a player would want to stay here, even if they had other options.

By EAVBlue

July 4, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this

Thank you. I may have given up hockey if he weren’t back.

By Bob

July 4, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

I guess Slava’s trip out to Dallas yesterday got Waddell to up his offer to where Kozlov wanted it. Smart move by his agent to force Don’s hand.

I thought there was 0 chance of signing Kozlov. He obviously wants to stay here, his kind of town, gets to play and not be bothered, apparently he’s a shy type with the media, etc.

It is great to see that our owners gave Waddell more money to spend. There was no way we afford Kozlov with the same $40m self imposed cap. I think I know who to root for in the ownership battle, go suck an egg, Belkin. Some of you guys like to give crap to the Spirit boys, but at least they are willing to pay to play.

Now the move for White makes sense, Waddell was leaving room to sign Kozlov. We still need some kind of move for a center, however. And it’s not going to be Yashin, thank goodness. And the defense is, below average.

White, Holik, and then who at center? Rucchin? Please no. Don’t tell me Slater, he just isn’t going to blossom into much. I’d love for that rumor of Holik to the Oil to be true, but only if we replace that $4.5m with an offensive center. Otherwise, if they are just clearing space to get back down to $40m, then that’s no good.

By Tony C.

July 4, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this

YAY!!!!

How cool is this? We re-sign the “secret heart” of the team, do so at below market value (huge props to Mr. Kozlov for that, you know he could’ve gotten a lot more money elsewhere)….and it’s Independence Day! Too cool!

Now as far as line combos, why not put Big Bob on Hoss’ line? He’s skilled and savvy enough to play with those two, and certainly big enough t create room for them to improvise…That would put White with #17-a center who can actually keep up with him foot-speed wise….which I think we all saw how much #17 missed last year.

I dunno. I’m sure none of it will work out the way I envision it right now.

I’m super stoked - now when they announce Slava-Matic on opening night yall better let him know how appreciated he is.

GO BLUE !!!

P.S. Betcha that the chances of Hoss signing an extension just went up.

By Geneen

July 4, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this

OMG!!!!!!!!!! That’s all I have to say. Craiggers, your stories had me fairly hopeless. This is the best Fourth of July surprise ever.

Re: Tarantino’s Top Gun theory. He’s crazy!

By Commander Zero

July 4, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this

I am glad we signed Kozlov. Without him it would have been like a penis with only one ball. Now we have both balls. Hopefully this year we will be able to go balls deep!

By Craig Custance

July 4, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this

aroha - I meant no July 4th joke. Don’t know how the w slipped in there.

Geneen - Congrats, I immediately thought of you when the deal got done.

CommanderZero - huh?

Tony C - Hossa’s extension is the next big story, but I’m going to enjoy the rest of the 4th first. After that - Jiri Crha, expect a few calls.

Bob - Waddell credited the ownership as well for getting this deal done.

Nate — Great, thanks for giving me new rumors to chase.

By Brian

July 4, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

Craig - you might want to reevaluate your screenwriter/professor..

WARNING - I do not endorse this topic, I only bring attention to it because Craig brought it up (let me be clear icemansucks, I am straight. Although I do find it funny that you are outspoken on this issue and iceman is also a name of one of the characters in this movie).

Anyhow, this is a good overview of the theory, this is a more complete version from the movie that Tarantino talks about it, I heard it on the radio and they mention other things like how the chick’s name is Charlie, etc…

New rule, no more Top Gun references on this hockey blog!

By kbatch26

July 4, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

Big time kudos to all involved with getting Kozzy resigned… and yes Brian, Wadell is the fasted GM in hockey… ‘cause he felt the need… the need for speed (sorry… too good of a setup… couldn’t resist!)

By hairyheckler

July 4, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

The Tarantino Top Gun monologue from the movie Sleep With Me.

Huge Slava fan and I’m glad he’s back.

By David

July 4, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this

DW hasn’t yet lost that lovin’ feeling. Happy 4th everybody

By Brian

July 4, 2007 3:14 PM | Link to this

kbatch26 - you are freaking me out more than those comments by Commander Zero. God I hope icemansucks is away for the holidays…

By BigAl

July 4, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

Captain Koz is back!!!!!!!!!

By Oh...Canada

July 4, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this

Was it Buzilla who had contact with the Hockey Gods back in April? Hope it was your input that helped us sign Slava. Thank-you Hockey Gods.

Interesting how many new, or infrequent, posters hit this blog. This is BIG news.

By Sara

July 4, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this

WOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOO

that is all

By Nate

July 4, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this

My apologies for the triple post. Bad connection…

By Brian

July 4, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this

Oh…Canada - I thought it was Rawhide’s jersey that had “the power”…

By Baldheaded Thrasher

July 4, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this

Just got done eating the ribs and heard the news. Plop-plop-fizz-fizz oh what a relief it is!

I always believed signing Kozy would be key for the next year for various reasons, but I want to congratulate DW first!—— JOB WELL DONE !!

If all the money is spent then the youngsters will have to perform, but if we can pull it off, I’d gamble if Kozy agrees!

Name Kozlov Captain! ( First Russian Capt in NHL)?

Go for Yashin if Kozy and Kovy think it is a nice fit. Risky, but if it gelled what an offense.

Knowing that ATL does not have the financial resources as other teams this is money well spent. I still really believe we can make the playoffs next year, but before everyone stops laughing hear me out.

1) The Southeast Division will be the easiest div in the Eastern Conf, and I like our chances of winning it again.

2) The key will be the kids on defence. The speedier team will clear the zone quicker and create more scoring opportunities.

3) It sucked to see Belanger leave, but he is replacable.

Last word of advice—BH please let the kids play. I would rather lose with them om the ice, than watch older men chase the puck around the rink!

Just a thought!

By mj

July 4, 2007 5:52 PM | Link to this

Excellent news about Kozlov! Craig, thanks for all the updates and Happy Fourth. Enjoy it!

By russian

July 4, 2007 6:10 PM | Link to this

Slava is back. I was waiting that news!!! I think first line will Hossa-White-Slava. White was playing with Hossa in Ottawa. We need second center. Rucchin or Holik are not working for Kovy, they too slow. Yashin will be Ok if he did not ask too much money.

By krust

July 4, 2007 7:22 PM | Link to this

I thought we were out of it. My 4th has been made, thanks Don. Maybe Slava’s Wife put the screws to this deal! (No more moving around!) Hale the Professor! I look forward to the games. After all the reading of the blog. Trading Holik is not a good Idea. He was our best player in the playoffs. Holik is a great team leader. Holik Captian! Yahoo!! Stay away from Yashin far far away! Don Go looking for talent in Denmark, 2007 champions for under 18 and under 20.

By Geneen

July 4, 2007 8:28 PM | Link to this

Baldheaded Thrasher: There’s been at least one other Russian captain in the NHL: Alexei Yashin was the Islanders captain before they cut him loose.

I also want to say: Craig, you did a great job keeping us up to date on the Kozzy situation. I really appreciate the job you’ve done. It’s great to have a beat writer who is such an active part of the blog! I think we all here appreciate it.

I don’t post much, but I do read everyday. So thanks!

And, let’s all raise a glass to Kozzy’s return! I hope he’ll retire a Thrasher and that someday we’ll see his No. 13 hanging in Phillips Arena. Hurrah!

By Geneen

July 4, 2007 8:35 PM | Link to this

Yashin was also a captain for the Senators.

By sisu

July 4, 2007 8:40 PM | Link to this

Great news, I knew the deal would be done.

One draw for Kozlov is he can be invisible in this city, meaning he can have a private life…

No as to hockey buzz, the site is just rumors run by a greedy idiot!

By Oh...Canada

July 4, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this

Brian,…me thinks you are correct,..it was Rawhide. Still thanks to the hockey gods.

JayBird…I too liked Hnidy. Will miss him.

By Brian

July 4, 2007 9:16 PM | Link to this

Oh…Canada & JayBird - I liked Hnidy but aren’t we set on D with Zhitnik, Havelid, Exelby (thinking he signs), McCarthy, Popovic & Enstrom then throw in Klee for one of the rooks?

For all others, I think we can give up on Souray…

By Pickle

July 4, 2007 10:36 PM | Link to this

I thought Wadell said 4-5 roster spots would be held for the guys we drafted who are ready to play?

By ranallo10

July 4, 2007 10:37 PM | Link to this

Add me to that count of Hnidy fans.

Souray fits New Jersey, and any other better defensive unit than Atlanta. Our best defender cannot make up for Souray’s blunders, so he doesn’t “fit” this team. Plus, he’s asking way too much, as is evident by the apparent lack of interest from most teams (thus far).

Brian’s right, Klee will be there to help Popovic/Enstrom/Oystrick and any other defender who needs advice from an experienced NHL defenseman. As both he and Waddell and Custance said upon the announcement of his acquisition, he is here to help the young players. I don’t expect 25 minutes from him, I expect 15 minutes of relatively flawless defense. You can’t ask the same from Sutton, or de Vries (any more), or Hnidy. Klee’s hit his ceiling, but he’s got plenty to teach. I’d much rather Klee (a former US National team player) teaching on the job than de Vries or Sutton.

Official Keep Kozlov Counter: All of Atlanta — it’s nice that our wish came true.

“Bob2”, good excuse.

By Josh

July 4, 2007 10:44 PM | Link to this

I really want to see Sopel here to sure up the D. I’ve heard his name in rumors, but I guess if Waddell thinks we’re done for now… well we shouldn’t be, I hope he has a trade in mind for say maybe…. Holik’s salary.

By rockdr99

July 4, 2007 11:13 PM | Link to this

What a great four days — We got Kozzy back and got rid of that total loser, LAC — We are a better team going into the fall than we were at this time last year — Younger and faster — I still expect some tweeking — BH, give the kids a chance —-

By GSU-Lee

July 4, 2007 11:43 PM | Link to this

Thanks for some good news Craig, How was your fourth? And how serious, if at all, are the Hossa talks?

By Matt H

July 5, 2007 12:20 AM | Link to this

ALRIGHT!!!! Somebody take the Professor back and plug him into the hyperdrive!!!

Sad to see Hnidy go, too…

By Brendan

July 5, 2007 12:39 AM | Link to this

From TSN.Ca, “I’m very happy to be an Islander,” said Fedotenko in a statement Wednesday.

“Last season was a disappointment for me and I’m determined to show the Islanders and our fans what I can do. We have a very good team of talented young players and experienced guys and I really like Ted Nolan’s style of play. I looked at a lot of offers, but I know I’ve come to the right team.”

If you’ve kept up with the previous blogs, you know Fedetenko was on my “wish list.” But at $2.9 million, I think the Isles overpaid. But even at $2.9 million, FOR ONE YEAR, I think it might have been worth it for Waddell to bring him into the fold. There’d be 8X a year he could stick it to Tampa Bay. Imagine Fedotenko on a line with Kozlov and Hossa? Or even helping out with Kovalchuk? Bygones.

There’s still two guys left, I think, on my wish list. For the league minimum, I like Niko Dimitrakos. Give the guy a shot. And I don’t know if the ‘Canes have re-signed blueliner David Tanabe, 27, a former 1st round pick, 16th overall, from 1999. Again, he should stick to a division rival if he came here.

I guess I have the current “pairings” as Zhitnik & Havelid, Exelby & McCarthy, and Popovic/Enstrom & Klee. I am going to assume that Exelby returns, even if he winds up in arbitration. How big can the award be?

It’s now July 5th. By a few minutes, anyway. We’ll know today if “X” has accepted his qualifying offer, or if he intends to file for arbitration.

I am generally “happy” that Kozlov will be back for the next two seasons. It’s that 3rd year, at $3.66 million cap hit, that has me prematurely concerned. I do question, EXACTLY, how the league arrived at this $50.3 million cap limit. But if some “independent accountants” step in, we could see the cap shrink in 2008-09. Or, revenues could legitimately decrease. In which case, a lot of the teams that just OPENED THE WALLET could find themselves quite “stuck.” Gomez got 7 years. Briere got 8. Datsyuk got 7 years.

Ummn, did the owners/GM’s learn “anything” from the lockout? They don’t know what NEXT YEAR’s cap will be, much less 5-8 years down the road. In 2011, I wonder if the owners will even still want caps tied to revenues, if the cap rises to something like $60-65 million, by then.

Stop. Folks, there’s no serious TV contract for the NHL. It’s a joke. The way the league collects revenue can best be described this way. Take out your wallet. Examine it for credit cards and cash. That’s how the league got their money, as they “pat the turnstiles,” while grinnin’ like a cheshire cat. YOU pay it.

You pay it. When a player’s “cap hit” salary reaches $7+ million, the sound you hear is the “velcro” on your wallet being torn. Do they still make velcro wallets? But you get the point.

Susan Powter, where are ya, darlin’? ‘Cuz it’s time to stop the insanity. This league’s annual “showcase event” … is not the All-Star game, which will be held in Atlanta this time. No. The “showcase event” is the Stanley Cup Finals. Which are outdrawn, ratings-wise, by the likes of the “Westminster Dog Show,” the “Little League World Series,” the “Texas Hold ‘em” events, and, gulp, the “Women’s College Softball World Series.” And yet, the NHL is “okay” with trying to SQUEEZE even more out of the sometimes 1% of a given NHL city’s population—with an underpining belief that, “They’re HARDCORE hockey fans. They’ll pay it. They’ll find a way to pay it.”

What a strategy! Further alienate the one-percent of your “loyal fanbase.” We’re only two-years REMOVED from a WHOLE SEASON being cancelled … because GM’s/owners couldn’t control their spending habits, creating losses of $200 million a year, league-wide.

The goal was “30 healthy franchises” and a “level ice surface, so that every team could compete.” Is that what we’ve got? Is the NHL “profitable?” Or are 10 markets making enough to cover the losses of the other 20? And is there some “creative accounting” going on? I do wonder what the point of it all really was. I can still see “Thank You Fans!” written across the blueline of every rink in the league. How many fans in a smaller market city would respond by saying, “You’re Welcome!”?

I’d like to start by polling fans in Edmonton, the NY Islanders, Buffalo, Atlanta, Columbus and Phoenix. The first questions, “Do you think the lockout and salary cap FIXED the problem your market had in legimately competing for the Stanley Cup?” (Sure it did. In YEAR ONE!!! Edmonton faced Carolina! If the cap stayed at $39 million, you wouldn’t be seeing what we just did on July 1st.) Sorry for the War and Peace Post.

By thrashersfan

July 5, 2007 12:58 AM | Link to this

OK guys - I’m not saying this will happen, but all of you screaming for Waddell’s head if he didn’t sign Kozzy cannot complain in the future when the 36-38 yr old loses his touch over the next 3 yrs. Also, I was not happy about letting Belanger go.

By ranallo10

July 5, 2007 1:06 AM | Link to this

Brendan — stop stealing people from my wish list…I had to convince you on Dimitrakos, and at the least should get credit for putting that bug in your ear.

By LAC

July 5, 2007 8:09 AM | Link to this

Great move by The Thrashers, Kozlov was a KEY piece and his return will be akey in 07-08.

Finally a GOOD move by don waddell, Yes I give him credit,but we still need another center like Commire to add additional firepower for the Southeast Title defense !!!!

Sorry rockdr99, I was on vacation in Montana, not bad for a “loser” correct ?

By LACSucks

July 5, 2007 8:51 AM | Link to this

LAC, only steers and queers are in Montana and I doubt you have horns!

By Brendan

July 5, 2007 9:07 AM | Link to this

Ranallo gave me the idea for Dimitrakos. If DW ventures down this route, not a penny more than $530,000 for Dimitrakos.

Thus far, he’s (Dimitrakos) not even listed in “rumors” for offseason moves. Has his value slipped this badly??

One rumor about Yashin is circulating that the Capitals are interested in them. I do wonder if Alex Ovechkin is behind that interest in Yahin?

We can all breath a little easier knowing that Jeremy Roenick has decided to retire. Not that I ever thought he’d be coming here. But DW likes to toss “Yesteryear’s mid-30 year old All-Stars” a bone on their final contracts. No word on whether Peter Bondra has decided to retire. He played some for Chicago last year.

I sure hope the L.A. Kings cannot come to terms with Center Mike Cammalleri. I just cannot see how he and Kovalchuk could possibly fail. He’d put up “Savard-like” numbers on Kovy’s line. Every team would be looking at him if his situation goes to arbitration and the Kings refuse to pay the judgement. But, c’mon. The Kings can’t possibly afford to let him go.

By Legon of thrash

July 5, 2007 9:25 AM | Link to this

So some of you are saying Klee was brought here to mentor the young guys. Is this not something Zhitnik could have done? I think he was brought here because DW makes at least one of these idotic moves every year. DW said at the end of the postseason that several spots would be open for the guys we have drafted in our system. How many spots are available right now?

By Hip Czech

July 5, 2007 9:37 AM | Link to this

As far as line pairings go…

Kovalchuk/White/Dupuis

Hossa/Holik/Kozlov

Larsen/Slater/Perrin

Sterling(?)/?/Krog?

What are the chances of Sterling or Little sticking this year? It seems very few rookies make this club. Who was the last homegrown product to make this club with any impact, X?

Let’s hope Sterling can make the jump. If not, the 4th line will have to be filled with the second wave signings or from Chicago (Krog, Haydar?).

I too kind of hate to see Hnidy go. He was OK defensively and started to elevate his offensive game. He had one SH goal last year that was a thing of beauty. But, the D has numbers (Havelid, Zhitnik, X, McCarthy, Klee, Enstrom, Popovic) so not a huge loss. Let’s hope McCarthy gets a chance to play.

By GaVaHokie

July 5, 2007 9:51 AM | Link to this

EXCELLENT!! So happy Slava is back… my favorite player in the league. I respect him even more for taking less money to stay!

By Chris

July 5, 2007 9:59 AM | Link to this

There are still plenty of spots on the D. Only Zhitnik, Ex, Havelid and Klee are locked in I would think.

The roster is not looking as bad as some here think now that Kozlov is back. Yes there are some depth problems up front right now but that’s a better problem to have then a problem of “who will our go to scorers be”. The Sim and Mellanby roles are not that hard to fill.

By Thrasher Ryan

July 5, 2007 10:28 AM | Link to this

EXCELLENT job in keeping Captain Kozlov in the ATL, Waddell!

I will miss Hnidy as well. I think we could have kept him for less than we are paying Klee — however, I do not know a whole lot about Klee’s game.

I still think we need to try to get Yashin for Kovalchuk’s line. If Don can get us Yashin, I will give him a grade A+.

By R. Stroz

July 5, 2007 10:37 AM | Link to this

Brendan - What do you think the chances are the Thrashers can pry Cammalleri from the Kings for hometown boy Sterling and a kicker of some form?

By JayBird

July 5, 2007 10:44 AM | Link to this

I would say Slava becomes our captain with Havelid and Hossa wearing the big A. What do you guys think? Maybe give Kovy an A also?

By Sage of Bluesland

July 5, 2007 10:47 AM | Link to this

Whaddaya know, the big promise-maker finally did a good thing!

Don’t fool yourselves, though—remember blind squirrels find things at times…

I choose to look at the entire body of work—and that includes the “Five-Year Plan” now that we’re in Year Eight.

By GaVaHokie

July 5, 2007 11:11 AM | Link to this

That “blind squirrel” got Kozlov signed for $1-$2 million less than what everybody else was offering… yeah, Waddell really sucks.

Dammit, I read a Sage post… gotta stop doing that.

By Chris

July 5, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this

Hip Czech - I would not be surprised to see those top 2 be the combos that Hartley tries first in camp. Dupuis seemed to show enough last season that he should at least get a crack at that spot opposite Kovy.

By Tim

July 5, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

Legion of Thrash There will be rookies that will graduate which is nice. But on the other hand, you dont want to have too many of them on your starting lineup. Rookie tends to put too much pressure to keep the spot on the roster and made costy mistake. Too many of them at the same time is not a good thing.

Sage Yeah 8th season into a 5 season plan. 8th season into a 5 season plan. 8th season into a 5 season plan. 8th season into a 5 season plan. 8th season into a 5 season plan. 8th season into a 5 season plan. 8th season into a 5 season plan. 8th season into a 5 season plan. 8th season into a 5 season plan. 8th season into a 5 season plan. 8th season into a 5 season plan. 8th season into a 5 season plan. 8th season into a 5 season plan. 8th season into a 5 season plan.

Did I miss anything? Ok you can stop saying that for a while now that I wrote it down for you.

By GaVaHokie

July 5, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

I don’t know, Dupuis might give me a headache on Kovy’s line… then you’d have TWO guys on the same line that are constantly trying to creat fast-breaks… go ahead and throw Slater in between them and make it THREE!! I still think Kovy is better suited with bigger forwards who create space and stand in front of the net… I’ll keep saying it… Jeff O’Neill.

By Brendan

July 5, 2007 11:46 AM | Link to this

R.Stroz, I wouldn’t think the chances are good. With Cammalleri, the Kings know what they’ve got. With Sterling, it’s still a bit of an unknown. Cammalleri is just hitting his prime. This is the optimum time to keep him. He and Frolov and Kopitar are quite a foundation out there in L.A. The Kings are “kinda, sorta” flying under the radar. I think that people just assume, conditioned by years of futility, that the Kings will just trod along—like they do every year. But if you stopped to look at what they’re actually building, they can be a playoff team, and do some damage once they get there. It is a team that signed a lot of “Tier 2” free agents for depth.

That’s pretty “smart,” actually. Why? Well, for starters, they’re not really breakin’ the bank. Second, every team needs good, yet inexpensive depth. But third, and more importantly, they aren’t handcuffing themselves when Frolov, Kopitar,etc.’s, contracts come due. This is why gambling on a Gomez or a Briere or Drury in L.A. might have stunted the growth of their core nucleus out there on the West Coast. As it stands now, they should be able to re-sign most of their upcoming, budding talent, when the time comes due. Right now, the Kings need a goaltender.

Segue … in a move that flew completely the under the radar, the Vancouver Canucks just got Curtis Sanford, formerly of the Blues, for a song! $600,000. This guy was a backup who took over the starting job in 2005-06, when the Blues finished DEAD LAST in the league. And put up a .500 record and GAA under 3.00 that year. He got hurt this past season, and didn’t play so much. He finished with a GAA over 3. But he’s a fine young goalie to have in the system, as a starter or a backup. Can’t believe someone like Calgary, Minnesota, New Jersey or Buffalo didn’t SWOOP in to sign him. Good job by GM Nonis, in Vancouver. Luongo and Sanford will be a good tandem.

By ranallo10

July 5, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this

One day you’ll learn Hokie, one day…

Czech, your top two lines seem pretty good lines, I think you could be right to start with. We know that Hartley likes to create pairings (Hossa Kozlov, Holik Larsen, etc), so it might be fair to assume we’ll see Kovalchuk and Dupuis on a line with each other and a center-by-committee rotation of sorts. Though, I think thus far your guess makes sense.

Legion — What you are calling “idiotic moves” is something that is necessary in hockey. Waddell doesn’t like the prospect of starting two rookies and one defensively suspect player (McCarthy) on a defensive line that is already weak. In an attempt to save money to re-sign Kozlov (which he did), and in an attempt to help ease the transition that young players will face when playing defense on this team, he signed a veteran defenseman who is known as a stay-at-home player. Klee admitted he was coming here to help the young players. Waddell also admitted as such. Neither said they were expecting him to play 25 minutes a game, lead the team in scoring, and also play some goal in case Hedberg was too tired to backup Lehtonen.

Looking at how the defense will apparently shape up, I think Klee will be a useful addition. If he ends up playing like Modry or the de Vries we saw in 2007, then I think you could consider it an “idiotic” move. If he plays a solid 15-20 minutes, has a good plus/minus, and plays alongside a rookie defender, I think we can all assume it was a wise developmental signing that hopefully benefits the club.

Positive thinking man!

By ranallo10

July 5, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this

Brendan — I’m not exactly surprised any of the teams you mentioned didn’t swoop in to grab Sanford. Minnesota is fine in goal for the next few years with Backstrom and Harding (best young tandem in the league, they’re scary good). Calgary and New Jersey have franchise goalies, and if Calgary re-signs McLellan they both have serviceable backups. Brodeur and Kiprusoff, barring injuries or unexpected retirement, should be playing for a few more seasons. I think that’s plenty of time for the team to find a TRUE heir, as opposed to a rental (Sanford). Buffalo has a long future in Ryan Miller, and no real need to worry about his replacement. They do however need another backup, as I believe Conklin is a UFA (though he wanted to return).

Sanford played three less games this past season (due to groin injuries), but had a higher GAA. The team in front of him wasn’t too solid, and I agree he did shine relatively, but I don’t know if I’d be licking my chops to sign a 27 year old who is coming off a season missing 22 games total due to three separate groin injuries (most likely recurring injuries). His 05-06 season also ended in injury, with a sprained MCL keeping him out the remaining 19 games. That’s not exactly “injury prone”, but it’s enough of a flag for some GMs to worry about having this player as a backup. Strong goaltending teams (like the ones you mentioned) could be the only option for such a player, since the risk of injury is covered by the outstanding starting goalie, as well as the limited amount of ice time the player will see.

Also, a 5’10 185ish goalie is kinda small…I’m not so sure about that (think about Brathwaite - how good did he have to be athletically to counter his lack of size in net?).

I’m also surprised Vancouver signed him because the rumor was Luongo wanted McLellan as his backup again (Florida days). If you recall, one of the rumored qualms he had with Florida before he was traded was that he DEMANDED McLellan to be signed as his backup if he were to re-sign a contract with Florida.

If my team had a need for strictly a backup goalie, I’d be fine with $600K for Sanford. I just don’t know if he’s a smart option for a team hoping to win a Stanley Cup…I wouldn’t trust him in the playoffs.

By GaVaHokie

July 5, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this

Ranallo… learn what?… not to read Sage posts?

By Matt H

July 5, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this

Brendan Fedotenko, I think, is a little too streaky for the Thrashers to take a chance on right now. He’s always been streaky. Probably always will be. I think he’s a good fit for the Isles because, well, they have nothing now. He’d be a good fit for an A-1 like the Red Wings, because they can afford to take a chance on him.

Also, I echo your sentiments on the spending sprees. I’m pretty flabbergasted by the whole thing. I mean, Todd Bertuzzi got a 2-year deal for 4 mil./per… Maybe I should start playing in the NHL…

By Brendan

July 5, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this

I didn’t know Sanford’s injury situation was quite that bad. But I was thinking of him as a solid backup for someone. It’s only a one-year deal, so if he can stay healthy and play 20 games this year, impressively, he should garner more interest in the Summer of 2008. If he continues to be on IR, then that’s another story. I hope he can have an injury-free year return to his form of 2005-06.

Where did Fernandez sign? I forgot, already.

By Matt H

July 5, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this

Hokie I agree about Jeff O’Neill- or, at least, someone who’ll stand out in front of net. After losing KT and Sim, the team’s collective nose is looking kinda soft right now…

By rockdr99

July 5, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this

Only a total loser like LAC would brag about a vacation in Montana as if that was some indication of class — I give Waddell a “B” so far, considering the ownership issues — Hopefully, he is not finished —-

By Fred

July 5, 2007 1:15 PM | Link to this

Fernandez signed with boston. We need a strong, true #1 center, and another tough big man on D. X is tough, but he cant be the only tough guy on the team with a bunch of young guys, a couple of wussies (Mccarthy and Havelid) and who knows what Klee will become……. I know nothing about these D prospects someone fill me in

By GaVaHokie

July 5, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this

rockdr99… you might want to keep your voice down or Jeff Odgers might kick your a*… Montana is actually a very nice, relaxing place.

By buzilla baby blues

July 5, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

Our “nose” won’t be an issue if Boris makes the team

By ranallo10

July 5, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this

Hokie — I was speaking of the reading of posts from a person we shall no longer name. One day we BOTH will learn.

Brendan — with Sanford’s injuries you never know, they could just be “flukes” like Lehtonen’s spotty groin, or Nurminen’s career ender, or Hurme’s “unknown” injuries that threatened his ability to walk, much less play. Or, they could be a sign that he’s got injury problems…at 27, I’d say it was the former excuse. You’re right though, $600K isn’t too much to worry about for a person who’s going to play 20 games max.

By ranallo10

July 5, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this

True dat buzilla, Valabik will funk some people up, I’m sure of it. Nobody want’s an angry 6’8 Slovakian gunning for them.

By ranallo10

July 5, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this

Brendan — Speaking of backup goalies…Kevin Weekes was signed as the backup goalie for Martin Brodeur. As I expect from most teams with a PROVEN goalie, having an experienced backup goaltender is wiser than having a young backup goaltender with potential.

By Thrasher Ryan

July 5, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

Does anybody know anything about this Schultz guy we picked up from Vancouver? Wondering where he fits in, if at all.

Sign Yashin

By Russian

July 5, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

Any News from X? Will we keep him? About Yashin, it is very difficult thing. He can play very well, but at the time he could bust all teams. Nobody knows what he has in his head, even Russians :-)

By Brian

July 5, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

WTF!?!?!?!!!! Only a few days ago LAC officially announced that he was leaving us, wished us all a great summer, and now he is saying that he was “just in Montana for a few days”. I guess since he was completely wrong about DW and Kozlov he found it in his heart to jump back on the bandwagon…

By Brendan

July 5, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this

Ranallo, just don’t let Ondrej Pavelec hear you say that! ‘Cuz I think that’s where the Thrashers are headed down the road. Lehtonen as starter, Pavelec as backup. Who knows, though. Maybe Moose reupps in the Summer of ‘08?

Having a dependable, experienced, and reliable backup goaltender is desireable for the playoffs. But Carolina did manage just fine with Cam Ward when Gerber wasn’t able to carry the load in 2006. And Edmonton’s backup, Jussi Markkanen, faired quite well in the ‘06 Finals.

But, who wouldn’t want to go into the Finals armed with Giguere and Bryzgalov? Or Toskala and Nabakov. Or even Mason and Vokoun. But it’s tough on the “cap” to pull something like that off.

I think Waddell got Freddy Brathwaite as insurance for Moose. Michael Garnett didn’t get a qualifying offer, so it’ll be interesting to see where he winds up, as unrestricted. Caruso, too. Where’s Dan Turple these days?

By Jay

July 5, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this

I know I shouldn’t respond to a Sage post ….

But I think the “5 year plan? was achieved this past season. (As I recall it was “Getting to the playoffs” - Which we did.) Now, getting past the 1st ROUND of the playoffs is something else.

As for the moves - I have to admit I’m excited. I would have liked to have kept Belanger, who was a known quantity, but there are some good moves here. I’m looking forward to seeing White’s style of play, and I’ve heard good things about Ken Klee for years. I believe he will be a better mentor than Zhitnik due to his being more gregarious (Z is known to be a “quiet, do my job” kind of D-Man), and could provide another nice “stay at home” D-man.

Keep up the blogs, Craig! I love th fact that we have an active hockey community now (instead of the “dead zone” we had the first few years).

By Matt H

July 5, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this

Interesting side note on Eric Perrin featuring a post by our very own (I think) The Falconer.

By Christy

July 5, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this

Nothing to contribute here, other than my thanks to all of you for your contributions throughout the summer. Helps get my morning started to check in and see what all of you have to say and what is going on in the hockey world, but I do have a quesiton.

Read that X is heading into arbitration, any idea about how much he might end up receiving?

By Brian

July 5, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

Christy - whatever X gets we can afford now, and I think I speak for 99% of those here that he is wanted back.

By ranallo10

July 5, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

Brian — I’m sure someone else will also come on here soon and give us some sort of revisionist history about how he knew all along that Kozlov would re-sign here, and that no team could offer him enough money to pry him away from where he REALLY wants to play.

Then someone else will come on and give us a scathing report of how this is the only good thing Waddell has done in his tenure, and remind us that we’re in year eight of his “five-year-plan”. (edit: this already happened)

Then someone will say “STUPID DUMB”.

Brendan — I wouldn’t exactly qualify Lehtonen as a “proven” goaltender on the same plane as Luongo, Brodeur, or even Miller. I also wouldn’t consider the Thrashers Stanley Cup competitors just yet. Pavelec will be brought up, like Toskala and Bryzgalov, as a way to challenge Lehtonen to play his best hockey at the risk of losing his starting job. For now, Hedberg is our backup. If Lehtonen is re-signed (I think it was Hokie and I who laid this out, but I can’t recall), Pavelec still has a role to play, and could still supplant him as the “franchise” goalie…otherwise Pavelec wouldn’t have signed and would have gone back into the draft.

Speaking of Pavelec — what a stupid dumb GM Waddell is, convincing a young goalie prospect who is planning on going back into the draft (and would’ve likely been a first round pick) to sign a contract with the club because he’d have a role. Obfuscate. Prognosticate. Procrastinate.

By Brendan

July 5, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this

I wouldn’t put Lehtonen in that group you just listed either, Ranallo. Nor would I call the Thrashers Stanley Cup ready either. I was just citing an example where a young prospect goalie (Cam Ward) did well as a backup.

Any word on whether Panthers Center Stephen Weiss will go to arbitration? I know. I know. “Forget about it! There’s no way Florida lets him walk, no matter WHAT the arbitrator awards.” Weiss is a former 1st round pick, 4th overall. And if Florida let him slip to a division rival, they’re crazy.

Any word on Zach Parise? For some clubs, it might be worth surrendering the draft picks to go get him an offer sheet. I wanna watch Lou stay under the cap this year. He pulled a Houdini disappearing act with a few contracts last season.

By Brian

July 5, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this

Ranollo, Hokie & Brendan - I like the plan for Pavelec that all of you laid out in some fashion or another.

Ranollo - you made me think of another point regarding an unnamed blogger. His “plan” was to be gone for the summer, or 60 days. But it only took him 3 days to go Montana. Shouldn’t he only be on day 4 of his 60 day plan? He complains about someone’s 5 year plan when he couldn’t even complete his 60 day plan…

By The Falconer

July 5, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

I know that some of you were asking questions about the rise in the salary cap and why some teams could afford to spend money like crazy. I try to answer that in my blog today:

http://thrasherstalons.blogspot.com/2007/07/crazy-money.html

By Brendan

July 5, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

Christy, what the arbitrator decides is final. How the number is derived will take into account performance of similarly aged and similarly performing defensemen, logging approximately the same minutes as Exelby. As contracts are signed, they can and will impact the amount of Exelby’s arbitration award. If the Thrashers feel the award is excessive, and they decline to pay Exelby, he can then immediately become UNRESTRICTED, and can sign with any team he wishes, for any amount he wishes. Including the Thrashers, I believe.

Though, if I were to take bets, I’d say Waddell locks up Exelby before arbitration ever takes place. Waddell doesn’t like arbitration hearings. Frankly, I doubt any of the GM’s really do. It forces the GM to point out the negative aspects of a player’s performance and argue that based on those deficiencies, the player should receive less money. The player isn’t exactly thrilled to hear that. But if the market sets the value, then the higher the market goes, the more Exelby is likely to get.

Again, I don’t think it’ll ever reach arbitrator’s ears. It might happen as late as the morning of the hearing, but I suspect Waddell will re-sign Exelby. That, or trade him. But I don’t think Waddell wants to do that either. He drafted Exelby. They’ll come to “terms.” I’m curious as to how many years X wants? One, two, … three or more. He might be able to become unrestricted next Summer, if it’s a one-year deal. So, he may just sign a one-year deal and then test the waters next Summer.

Now, I might be wrong. Maybe X would still be restricted next Summer. But let’s say X is signed by Atlanta for the amount the arbitrator says. Atlanta can then start negotiating with him on January 1, 2008. And I suggest they do just that, irrespective of longstanding policy of not negotiating during the season.

Of course, to avoid all that, DW can just sign Exelby to some multi-year deal and the issue goes away for a while.

By Christy

July 5, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this

Brian - not worried about what he would cost, and would agree with that 99%. Just wondering what he might be awarded given the arbitration patterns of the last two years. Thanks.

By ranallo10

July 5, 2007 5:57 PM | Link to this

According to TSN, Prucha was re-signed. I haven’t seen contract details yet.

By Craig Custance

July 5, 2007 6:21 PM | Link to this

Exelby and Slater file for arbitration.

By rebecca30308

July 5, 2007 6:29 PM | Link to this

Per TSN : Anaheim Ducks signed defenceman Shane Hnidy to a two-year contract.

By Joey

July 5, 2007 6:33 PM | Link to this

Hey Craig, any word on if we will being talks with Hossa and talk about an extension?

I hope we give the same deal thornton and iginla got with their extension and sign hossa from 6.5-7million for 3-5 years.

By ranallo10

July 5, 2007 6:34 PM | Link to this

Hnidy signed with Anaheim, 2 years, unknown amount as of now.

By ranallo10

July 5, 2007 6:39 PM | Link to this

I want to see Waddell attempt a 5 year contract just to see what Belkin does. In all honesty, I can’t imagine why Belkin would deny it…after all, he cares first and foremost about basketball. The other point is that the problem he had to start this mess was the acquisition of a player and the parts dealt for him in return, but Hossa’s situation is your teams highest scorer needing a long term contract at high dollars — I’m curious if he’ll decline it.

Thanks for the updates Craig, keep them coming.

By Brendan

July 5, 2007 7:13 PM | Link to this

In all seriousness, Hnidy to the Ducks is a good deal for Anaheim. And it’s a good move for Hnidy. The Ducks do have a “decent” shot at repeating. Barring a sudden “mood swing” by Pronger’s wife, Lauren.

She was “too cold” in Edmonton. Maybe it’s “too warm” in Anaheim. Allright, where’s the “happy medium” city? Who just yelled, “San Jose!” That would be an awesome Sharks team. It’s already a pretty good team.

By Brendan

July 5, 2007 7:28 PM | Link to this

Craig, do you have a Rucchin injury/status report on Rucchin? Another poster said he saw him and was on the road to recovery. But have team doctors “cleared” him?

I ask because, perhaps, Kozlov could play center this year. So, the “potential” centers are Kozlov, White, Holik, Slater, and longshots /Krog/B. Little.

By LAC

July 5, 2007 7:53 PM | Link to this

Hey brian, let’s get over the personal attacks on bloggers. We all have a different point of view on what The Thrashers are or are not doing to suit a specific member.

I do not agree with a number of posts, but to attack the blogger is just a waste of time for everyone.

My point of view on waddell is what it is, yours differs vastly, but just because I, or anyone else for that matter, writes a comment that is of a differing viewpoint, does that make one stupid ? No, What is does is makes the responder, in this case you, look foolish.

So, lets talk about the upcoming season, who will or will not sign, personnel of the team, management on down are fair game, but just because you don’t like what I say, no need to get all wound up, just make comments concerning The Team and not specific members, simply because you disagree… Fair ?

I have a business associate at WBAP in Dallas. He knows several Stars and management, he informed me they thought they had Slava wrapped up, but I guess Waddell did some reworking and made it happen for US… Not them.

They were stunned he told me, when Slava informed them Atlanta was his choice.

This is also important, because it shows we can KEEP our UFA’s, granted a couple walked, but Slava was a KEEPER !

By rockdr99

July 5, 2007 8:18 PM | Link to this

LAC — I’ll hold you to the standard you just stated — However, your track record suggests you’ll never make it — You are unnecessarily negative and mean spirited — You bid us goodby for the summer and couldn’t stick with that for a week —

GAVAHokie — I didn’t disparage Montana, just to state that anyone who uses his vacation destination as evidence of his character is off his rocker, but then we already knew that —

As to the Thrashers, we have White, Perrin, Sterling, and Dupuis replacing Rucchin, Kapenen, Sim, and Mellanby — Then on D, we have Zhitnik, Enstrom, Klee, and Popovic replacing Sutton, DeVries, Havelid, and Vishniski comparing last year’s opening lineup to where we currently sit this year —Does anyone this that this isn’t progress ?— Please share your thoughts

I think the key this year is Kovalchuk — He needs to have a 100 point season —

By Brian

July 5, 2007 8:19 PM | Link to this

LAC - it’s not a personal attack, I am just stating the facts that you stated you were leaving us and after only being on day 4 of your 60 day plan, you couldn’t keep your end of the commitment. How can anyone respond to your comments when you clearly show you contradict yourself by not committing to your 60 day plan.

By Ban LAC

July 5, 2007 8:32 PM | Link to this

Brian, LAC said he was going to be gone for the whole summer. Summer ends on Sept 21, shouldn’t he be gone for an extra 21 days then? It’s an 81 day plan that he should be gone for.

By Bob

July 5, 2007 8:38 PM | Link to this

We are faster and deeper than last year. we continue to improve each year and do so with economic responsibility.Ilya is the player that other teams try to stop first as he is the most dangerous, so with the depth and speed, he could again have a really big year.

By j nes

July 5, 2007 9:12 PM | Link to this

LAC, go back to montana—preferably to some brokeback mountain without internet access so we dont have to read anymore of your ranting double talk.

By Midfield

July 5, 2007 9:36 PM | Link to this

What do you guys think of how our division rivals stack up? It looks like the Caps are getting hands full.

By Brendan

July 5, 2007 10:25 PM | Link to this

Well, the Islanders made some more moves. Bill Guerin was “chompin’ at the bit” to sign a 2-year deal with the Islanders. Translation: “At least I’m still in the league, and maybe they’ll move me at the trade deadline.” The Isles also signed Comrie. So, that’s the end of that, as far as Atlanta is concerned. Isles also picked up Fedotenko, earlier, as I posted. I know the guy’s inconsistent, but I would have liked to see he and Kovalchuk give it a shot, on a one-year deal. At $2.9 million, I do think the Isles overpaid for Fedotenko. But they need to fill out a roster. They’ll probably wind up re-signing Center Randy Robitaille, 32-years old. Andy Hilbert and Trent Hunter are also unsigned for the Isles.

By Sage of Bluesland

July 5, 2007 10:39 PM | Link to this

Wow, we finally do what over half the teams in the league do to begin with (and had, by far, the worst experience when making it) and the shiny, happy roaches come out of the woodwork and speak with such passion, optimism, and enthusiasm! However, these positive attributes are blemished by the self-righteousness, which is so unbecoming!

Hey, if we reel off five straight years of playoffs as a legitimate threat to win the Cup, I’ll be proven dead wrong. I’ll be the first in line to admit I misjudged the ability of our GM, coach, organization, etc.

However, what if we regress and undergo additional “rebuilding” in Donny’s figurative joke otherwise known as “Blueland”? Will these same roaches have the guts to come back and admit they were wrong?

We’ll see…

By Brendan

July 6, 2007 12:03 AM | Link to this

So, whattaya guys think DW should do with Slater? Sign him before the hearing to a one-year deal? Sign him before the hearing to a multi-year deal? Take your chances in arbitration? Slater didn’t exactly light it up. The numbers are disappointing for him. Trade Slater BEFORE the hearing? (Presummably a sign-n-trade at an elevated price that Thrashers weren’t comfortable with, but the other team was.) Trade Slater AFTER the arbitration award? Or let him become unrestricted after rejecting the arbitration decision, then try to re-sign him as a UFA for less than the actual award. Or, final option, let him walk and look for other players who found themselves in the same situation with other teams, namely, that their current clubs don’t want to pay the arbitration figure, so they cut the player loose. (Think J.P. Dumont with Sabres last year. Arbitrator said, $2.5 million. I think Dumont then signed with Nashville for $2.1 million.)

Sue me if I left an option off the table.

By R. Stroz

July 6, 2007 12:22 AM | Link to this

Outside the box thought on Slater:

Maybe, Slater wants out of Atlanta because he’s tired of BH benching him and/or playing him on the fourth line. Slater doesn’t believe he is “one of BH’s boys”, is young, and therefore will never develop under BH. As a result, Slater requests arbitration to either get more playing time or out from under BH’s prejudice against younger players.

Just a thought.

By ranallo10

July 6, 2007 1:11 AM | Link to this

Brendan — I’m thinking Slater was offered a relatively low contract compared to what he made last season, and is going the arbitration route to get what he feels is a well deserved raise. I don’t think he wants to leave Atlanta (if he did, do you think Waddell would’ve qualified him?? I’d hope they talked about it before the offer was given).

R. Stroz I don’t think he’s “fed up” with Bob Hartley. Maybe it’s me, but I think Slater is the type of player that thrives under a Bob Hartley type coach…the type that gets on you when you mess up, and demands hustle, and defensive responsibility. Basically, I think Slater is fine for Hartley’s “system”, and Slater is fine WITH the system.

My thoughts are that he’s looking for a raise, Waddell will likely sign him before the arbitration. If not, I doubt he’ll make as much money as he truly expects. Course, with the way arbitrators look at things, my guess is the arbitrator will say “He’s young. Drury was young at one point in time. He might end up like Drury. Slater is worth $3M.” (note the sarcasm)

Sage — I’m just curious about something…who is it that YOU feel is a good GM currently in the NHL? If you’re not sure of the guys’ names, feel free to name their franchise. I’m asking because I’d like to know who you’re comparing Don Waddell to, and to what standard you are holding Waddell’s accomplishments.

By R. Stroz

July 6, 2007 1:26 AM | Link to this

Ranallo10 - I think DW is trying to save enough money to re-sign Vigier and Sutton.(note the extreme sarcasm)

That’s funny. I don’t care who you are!

By Jameson

July 6, 2007 1:47 AM | Link to this

Speaking of Slater and arbitration, can an arbitrator set the price bellow the qualifying offer?

By David

July 6, 2007 4:48 AM | Link to this

The thing i like about DW is the direction he has taken the club in.

Compare the thrashers to other new teams around the league. We have steadily improved year after year. Would you rather be like the panthers and be good for a year then fade back into being mediocre? Or how about the Columbus Blue Jackets…I won’t even start on them.

He’s continually made improvements to the team. Maybe they haven’t been the kind of improvements like, signing a big name player to drastically improve the team, but in some ways that’s great. I would rather him improve the team piece by piece as a whole then try to grab a big piece and hope it fixes everything. The overall quality of players we have no is so much better then it was for us 5 years ago, don’t forget that. Five years ago, we were a joke. We’re not a joke anymore.

And LAC, I don’t understand why you post here. You don’t seem to actually be a fan. You keep talking about not buying seats because the team isn’t making the administrative moves you want…I go to the games to watch my local team play hockey. You just seem overly bitter all the time. Chill out and enjoy the game man. If you don’t wanna go to the game, that’s fine. More chance for me to take my kids to a game.

By B. Thenet

July 6, 2007 8:03 AM | Link to this

Slater should be happy that Hartley kept putting him on the ice every night, despite his error prone ways.

I think Slater is worth one more year, to see what exactly he can become.

It is pretty clear to me that he is not a top line player, and never will be. He just doesn’t have the skill. However I do think he can be a very solid 3rd liner down the line, he reminds me of Dan Snyder. The only question is if Slater is ready to accept that he is a 3rd liner, or if it will take a change of scenery for him to realise his place in the NHL.

By Fred

July 6, 2007 8:09 AM | Link to this

still no one has filled me in on any of these prospects, other than that Boris is 6’8” and mean. We had another big defenseman last year who was mean…….when he felt like it. And i’m glad to be rid of him. We need a Pronger-esque Dman here. Someone truly good, but with a mean streak a mile wide that will make teams scared to come into our end. Right now the D is not very imposing.

By BigAl

July 6, 2007 8:35 AM | Link to this

Does anyone think Slater is worth more than $1 mil? His qualifying offer is either 945 or 990.

Also, there is so much talk about BH and his inability to coach young players.

Dis everyone forget that he won the Memorial Cup (Laval QMJHL) the Calder Cup (Hershey AHL) and the Stanley Cup (Colorado NHL)?

You don’t win at any of these levels without being able to cultivate talent.

Maybe coaching Hejduk and Drury at 24, and Tanguay at 21 to the Cup should be these guys be considered “older type” players?

By Jay

July 6, 2007 9:07 AM | Link to this

Re: Slater - He had a great season in 2005-2006, then (what I believe was) a mediocre one in 2006-2007. I think he’ll get signed before Arbitration, but with the understanding that he needs to recapture his 05-06 form to keep playing in the big leagues. When Slates is good, he’s REALLY promising (2nd line center), but this past year he did a lot of growing and I’m hoping it was just a slumping year.

As to X, I think his deal will get done too. If I had to guess, I’d say probably multi-year (2-3), with a raise and performance incentives.

But then again, I’m not the GM…

By Brian

July 6, 2007 9:20 AM | Link to this

Big Al - ZAvalanche (I think) made a decent post about all the young guys BH had when he was in Colorado. But it didn’t translate here. We have some proven talent that does outstanding in Chicago but then can’t crack past the 4th line or 3rd pairing here. Maybe with so much coming up this year, I hope that will change. I remembered Hershey, but throw in Laval too and it’s obvious he can work with young talent. The question is why doesn’t it happen here?

Brendan - I think he Slater is too young on to give up yet. Even if it’s just one more year, even if that year is with the Wolves. Although now that I read he is going to possibly get more than $1mm, I need to rethink this.

Fred - every team needs a Pronger, preferably 6 of them…

By Bob

July 6, 2007 9:25 AM | Link to this

Slater is what he is, skates like the wind in a straight line, falls down a lot, no hands. I couldn’t care less if they re-signed him or not. X does need to get done and Waddell will sign him before subjecting him to Arbitration Hell.

I alwasy find it amusing to watch the naive fans that just suck up eat up the sunshine that’s blown up your rears by a club’s management. To me, a real fan is one that demands accountability and expects results, because they love their team and want to win and won’t settle for mediocrity (hey, we didn’t have a losing record last year, yeah!). Not someone who’s happy to just have hockey to watch at exorbitant prices. Again, the real season in hockey is the playoffs. Of which we’ve never won one game in. That’s the standard to measure success against. Demand excellence, especially at the prices we pay.

By Buzilla Baby Blues

July 6, 2007 9:28 AM | Link to this

I have to admit that I am starting to get excited about this upcoming season. Our core players are all coming back. I like the White signing. I think the Klee signing will work out well. I also think at least 2 or 3 of the “kids” will step up this year. We still have Popovic right? I don’t remember anyone putting him in a pairing

Zhit/Hav Klee/X Pop/Boris/Enstrom/McCarty???

We increased our overall team speed, especially on the fowards by the departing of Capt. Rat. We improved a bit on D with the hopeful departure of Mandy Buttons.

My lineup:

1st Hossa/White/Kozy 2nd Kovy/Holik/Perrin 3rd Dupuis/Slater/Sterling 4th Larsen/Little/Haydar

1st Zhit/Hav 2nd Klee/Pop 3rd X/Boris (wishing)

I feel like I am leaving someone out…

When does the Schedule come out?

By GaVaHokie

July 6, 2007 9:28 AM | Link to this

I feel very good about arbitration this year. Slater won’t get anything from an arbitrator… Exelby, I’m guessing will be close to $2 million… at least we don’t have to worry about a Daniel Briere situation like Buffalo had last year, where he jumped from making $1.8 million up to 1-year $5 million.

Exelby had 10 pts in 58 games with a +2 rating… the year before 10 points at +11. All the arbitrators can do is crunch numbers. It’s not like they’re going to say, “Man, that hit you put on Mats Sundin last year was something else. That’s worth $2 million by itself.”

http://youtube.com/watch?v=Y2SdJGhkZK4

I never get tired of looking at that! I don’t care what anyone says, that was clean as a whistle. :)

By Buzilla Baby Blues

July 6, 2007 9:40 AM | Link to this

Fred

If you have Boris and X on a pairing I guarentee you the the opposition would have some fear. X is on some serious roids and Boris is a Yeti (Abominable Snowman/Bigfoot/etc.)

By GaVaHokie

July 6, 2007 9:48 AM | Link to this

Buzz… you’re missing Krog who has an NHL only contract this season, or am I getting that confused with Haydar?

By Shoot it

July 6, 2007 9:52 AM | Link to this

Anybody see the comments Tortorella made about Perrin noted in The Hockey News?

By Buzilla Baby Blues

July 6, 2007 10:01 AM | Link to this

I hope its Haydar…I am not sold on Krog. Once you put on a Rangers sweater your pretty much dead to me.

And they left him by the side of a road like some used condom. So no thanks. No thanks to Krog.

Plus his name bothers me. Sounds like a kick in the groin.

The only reason I still like Holik is because he helped the Dev’s get there first cup. (In case you were going to bring that up Hokie)

By GaVaHokie

July 6, 2007 10:12 AM | Link to this

Buzz… I’ve read a lot of things in my life but that… was… awesome! haha.

I’ve never had a problem with Holik. He knows his role! Can’t just look at the score sheet all the time.

By UpperDeck4Life

July 6, 2007 10:12 AM | Link to this

Big AL Hartley’s team that won the Memorial Cup had a serious number of overage players on it. He traded away a lot of his younger prospects to get what was the oldest team in Juniors that year. In Colorado he leaned on his vets more than he did the 3 you mentioned. He and Dury got into a couple of times and I could be wrong but I believe that Dury has said he never wants to play for him again. He has had what looks like young teams but he always gives more to the vets than the kids.

Fred Boris is not making the team this year, you forgot that Enstrom and McCarthy have contracts for this season. Boris will spend another year at least in Chicago refining his game. He’s not ready for more than a cup of coffee right now.

Buzilla Why’d you have to go after X with the Roids? Little uncalled for. And the same thing that I said to Fred about Boris applies to your lineup. He’s not ready.

Why does everyone keep putting Sterling on the 3rd line. He is not a checker or grinder. He is a scoring winger. Everything I have heard and read about him says he has to be on a scoring line to be successful. His game is not on that is suited to the 3rd or 4th line. He is a 2nd line guy next season and probably lines up across from Kovy next year.

By Buzilla Baby Blues

July 6, 2007 10:28 AM | Link to this

UpperDeck4Life

I love X. I have said this before on this blog. I personally think that he may be doing some roids. Having met the boy each of the last few season he got pretty big pretty fast. But I am thankful that he is will to sacrifice his body (and flesh bag) for the team. This isn’t baseball where the it tends to be a more individual sport. This is more like football were his getting bigger/stronger means nastier hits for the team and for me to watch and enjoy. Thank god the NHL testing policy is a joke and the witch hunt in congress could care less about what goes on in a sport that 100 people outside of Canada enjoy watching.

Like I said. I love X

By ranallo10

July 6, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

Re: roids — I think it’s pretty pitiful that a person can fail the drug tests from the Olympic Comittee, get suspended from any International Competitions for steroid use, but still be allowed to play in the NHL. It’s a joke. I like Bryan Berard, and still would like to see him play in Atlanta, but I CANNOT believe he was allowed to suit up last season (though he didn’t really play)…he should’ve been suspended for the ‘roids. As Buzilla said, the witch hunt is a joke focused on the major sports. They don’t care about tennis, golf, hockey, etc.

Re: Potential Lineups — I’ve got no issues with Krog, he tries like everybody else so I can’t knock him for that. He’s got an upside, as his AHL scoring showed, but he may never be better than a AAAA talent. Same goes for Haydar. I think they both deserve a chance, and (as I said ad nauseam last year) I’d rather see one of them playing then I would Vigier.

My guess: (S1)Kozlov - White - Hossa

(S2)Kovalchuk - Holik - Sterling

(C1)Dupuis - Perrin - Larsen

(C2)Thorburn - Slater - Haydar

(D1)Zhitnik - Havelid

(D2)McCarthy - Exelby

(D3)Popovic - Klee

I don’t think Valabik will make it this season, nor Oystrick. I think the young defender spot is Popovic’s to lose, and the person I figure is more likely to take it from him would be Enstrom. I expect Popovic and Enstrom will both make the club, with them switching off games to get playing time and see how they gel with Klee.

The typical role the fourth line (C2) has been an up-tempo line with fast skaters who will forecheck. Perrin was promised 3rd line (C1) time by Waddell according to that Tampa Bay blog, so I would imagine he’d start there at least. Thorburn is a big body, which will be needed offensively, so I think it’s between Haydar/Krog/Little/Schultz/et ali to get that last roster spot. I gave the edge to Haydar since he’s got the NHL contract, has proven offensive talent, and has played a few games in Atlanta already.

Just my guess though, feel free to rip it.

By GaVaHokie

July 6, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

Wow… the Oilers gave Tomas Vanek a 10 year $50 million offer sheet. Buffalo was expecting it and intends to match the offer… craziness. It’s nice to have prospects that develop, but that’s gotta be driving Regier crazy… Briere last year, Vanek this year… coming soon, Pominville.

By GaVaHokie

July 6, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this

Excuse me… 7 years $50 million

By Thrasher Ryan

July 6, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this

Anybody know what our updated salary cap looks like? How much $$ do we have left to spend on UFAs? We still need a center for the Kovalchuk line. I say go for Yashin if Kozlov/Kovalchuk feel like he will be a good fit here.

By Craig Custance

July 6, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this

The Thrashers signed D-man prospect Grant Lewis earlier today. He was the Thrashers second-round pick in 2004 and is ranked as their No. 5 overall prospect by Hockeysfuture.com.

By Buzilla Baby Blues

July 6, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this

never heard of him.

By Buzilla Baby Blues

July 6, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

Hey, I just saw a new Thrasher commerical on the History Channel.

Just caught the end of it

By JayBird

July 6, 2007 1:05 PM | Link to this

Does anybody know when the 2007-2008 Thrashers schedule will be released? Also, what divisions do we play from the Western Conference?

By Thrasher Ryan

July 6, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this

JayBird — Don’t know when the schedule comes out — I’ve been asking Craig that for months now. I do know we travel to the Cenral Division of the Western Conference (Nashville, Chicago, St. Louis, Etc.) and the Northwest division comes to Philips (Calgary, Edmonton, Minnesota, Vancouver, etc.)

Today’s Trivia: What is the only team the Thrashers have never won against?

By Hip Czech

July 6, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this

I was pushing for Kozlov to play center last year…what if under that scenario (tweaking Ranallo’s lineup a bit:

(S1) Kovalchuk-White-Dupuis (S2) Hossa-Kozlov-Sterling (C1) Perrin-Holik-Larsen (C2) Thorburn-Slater-Haydar

Hey, who says Kovalchuk and Dupuis are both speed guys? Didn’t you see Kovalchuk take on Avery in the playoffs? Ilya’s a tough guy/enforcer now… ;-)

I do think we are going into this season in better shape than starting last year (the subtraction of DeVries and Sutton alone). There may be one or two more roster tweaks before September. We’ll see.

By R. Stroz

July 6, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this

JayBird - After talking to my Thrashers representative yesterday, I was informed the schedule should be out before the end of July. I have no idea which Western Conference teams we will be playing.

By Brendan

July 6, 2007 1:24 PM | Link to this

Look at this overreaction in Edmonton. They lost Ryan Smythe and so … they feel they have to do something like this. I hope Buffalo takes the four 1st round picks!

From NHL.com, “BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) -High-scoring Sabres forward Thomas Vanek signed a seven-year, $50 million offer sheet from the Edmonton Oilers, and Buffalo now has seven days to match the offer. If Vanek signs with Edmonton, the Oilers would have to provide the Sabres with four first-round draft picks as compensation. Vanek led Buffalo with 43 goals last season and had 84 points. “Obviously, the terms are pretty great, and we felt it was something Thomas wanted to do,” said Vanek’s agent, Steven Bartlett, adding that he also received offers from other teams.

I bet Buffalo matches it, though. Or there’ll be a revolt!

By Buzilla Baby Blues

July 6, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

Minnisota Wild?

By JayBird

July 6, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

Thanks, Thrasher Ryan.

The answer is Minnesota, surprisingly enough. We should be able to remedy that this year!

By B. Thenet

July 6, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

Hey Craig: Any Prospect Camp updates.

I am sure Grant Lewis is a bit happier with that contract getting done. He is going to be someone to watch in Chicago next year.

The Thrashers might have one of the better group of D prospects in the NHL as far as talent and depth.

By Buzilla Baby Blues

July 6, 2007 1:42 PM | Link to this

I have another trivia question for you:

Whose arms are in the 2nd place video for the Thrashers Video contest?

By Buzilla Baby Blues

July 6, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

I have another trivia question for you:

Whose beautifully sculpted arms are prominently displayed in the 2nd place winner of the Thrashers Fan Video Contest?

By Buzilla Baby Blues

July 6, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

sorry for the double post. I wanted to craft the question better ;)

…really slow work day

By Bob

July 6, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

What? The Wild have Belanger now, they’ll kill us!

I can’t believe the poor, poor, cash strapped Oil broached the RFA offer sheet bridge. I thought they were the poster child for why we needed a Cap? Why did we lose a season to a lockout?

By JayBird

July 6, 2007 1:55 PM | Link to this

Lou Ferrigno?

By Bob

July 6, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

zilla’s arms! got a link?

By Matt H

July 6, 2007 1:59 PM | Link to this

Should Kovy wear the “A” next season?

By Buzilla Baby Blues

July 6, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this

Lou Ferrigno is an awesome guess!!!!

but I am afraid that is incorrect. Lou had a scheduling conflict that we ran into during the shoot.

By ranallo10

July 6, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

…no no, I think it’s Ferrigno’s arms.

Matt H — I think Kovalchuk isn’t ready for an “Alternate” role. Holik, Kozlov, Hossa, and Havelid all played that role last season, I suspect they’ll do it again this season. I wouldn’t be surprised to see a new person with an “A” this season, but I don’t think it’ll be Kovalchuk (Zhitnik maybe?). If it is Kovalchuk I’ll be a little upset because I think it’s stroking an ego, not rewarding the best candidate. If I could choose, it’d be “C”-Kozlov, “A”-Hossa, “A”(Home)-Havelid, “A”(Away)-Holik.

Can anybody tell me why a goalie is not allowed to wear the “C” or “A”?? Kolzig should be captaining Washington, Brodeur should be captaining New Jersey, Roy should’ve been captaining Colorado…I just don’t understand.

By Buzilla Baby Blues

July 6, 2007 2:11 PM | Link to this

Bobzilla is correct!!!!

Unfortuately I do not have a link. It is now buried on the Thrashers site. I think it is under Contests/Promotions.

I have a sad story about that video. My friend (the guy in the video playing the trumpet) and I were asked by the Thrasher to put the video on a DVD so it could be played in the arena at the next Thrasher home game during the playoffs….One broom later and the video is in a basement somewhere collecting dust. I guess their is an outside chance that it will played this season but I am not holding my breath.

For those interested. We won an autographed replica blue jersey (Hossa/Rat/Kovy/Kari) and a digital picture frame. Not bad!

By Tim

July 6, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

Bob So that we have a cap. Do you think teams like Rangers, Philadelphia who made a big splash this season can go after.. lest say and this is only an example.. Marian Hossa next season? Nope, unless they trade some of the overpaid players they had sign this season but then again, who will want them? Prior to the lockout and cap, that would have been a possibility.

What we have right now is not perfect. Rules are written by human that are not perfect. But the fact that those rule exist is the prove that some people try to make the product better. And I do believe the economy right now is way better then what we have prior to the lock out. At least now Edmonton can affort those kind of offer whenever they couldn’t back then because the Rangers would have made a better offer.

By Bob

July 6, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

Yes Ilya should have an A next season. He is the heart and soul of the team.

Bob-The reason we had a lockout was due to the previous economic model being broken.In the end it is a business.

By eli72

July 6, 2007 2:25 PM | Link to this

Rule 6.1 specifically states that “No playing Coach or playing Manager or goalkeeper shall be permitted to act as Captain or Alternate Captain.”

By JayBird

July 6, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this

That was a great video, my favorite one that was submitted. Nice price pack, that’s for sure.

I agree with you to a certain extent, Ranallo about Kovalchuk being an alternate captain. He may not be the best candidate compared the Zhitnik but he is one of the cornerstones of this franchise’s future. He has shown a vast improvement in his maturity and leadership. For me, a huge moment was when he stuck up for Hossa after the hit against the Canadiens. Of course, Tkachuk stepped in but Ilya really showed me something there. I really don’t have a problem with him being given more of a leadership role with this team.

By Matt H

July 6, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this

ranallo (I’m playing devil’s advocate here) What about the idea that giving Kovy the “A” would tighten up his play? That he’d grow into it due to the honor and responsibility itself?

By Buzilla Baby Blues

July 6, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

Make Holik “C” (Waddell has pretty much said he was anyway)

Make Hossa/Kozy/Kovy/Hav “A” (switching every couple of weeks since you can only have two at a time)

By Bob

July 6, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this

That was a rhetorical question. My point is the Oil were the poster children for crying poor mouth over the previous arrangement. Now, they break the unwritten rule of not extending offer sheets to RFA’s. Upsets the whole apple cart of being able to keep your young talent. Now, you’re going to have guys for 3 years at a reasonable price, but then they’re going to get the payday like the UFA’s. Crap, what are people going to offer Crosby?

I had not seen that video yet, zilla. Very nice, I like it better than the unleash the fairy winner.

By Thrasher Ryan

July 6, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this

For those of you who guessed Minnesota Wild, you are correct!

Now, let’s go sign Marcel Hossa and Alexei Yashin.

By Buzilla Baby Blues

July 6, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this

I was actually happy we didn’t win. First prize was crappy playoff tickets (which we had already) and the digital picture frame. I’d rather have the autographed replica jersey

By JayBird

July 6, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

The unleash the fairy video was embarassing. Of course it didn’t help that we played like a bunch of fairies against the Rangers.

Has Andrea Sutton signed with anyone yet? I hear the Gwinnett Gladiators are looking for ticket takers and jock washers. He may not be qualified for those jobs either.

By ranallo10

July 6, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

Matt H — No problem with being the advocate of the Devil, sometimes he’s got a point. I personally don’t think that giving a person an honor in order to make them conform to the code is how the “A” or “C” should work. The person is worthy of the role, or not (in my mind). I think it was way too early for Ovechkin to get an “A”, and I think it was extremely early for Crosby to get the “C”. In most cases young players have yet to exhibit any qualities to me that show they are capable of leading a team by example. Crosby is a diver, a whiner, but has AMAZING offensive abilities. He’s boisterous, but he has a passion to succeed…he’s halfway there in my mind. If Crosby were to calm down, he’d clearly be the Captain. For now (in my opinion), someone like Gonchar should be the Pittsburgh captain.

But I digress…my main point was that if a person doesn’t fulfill the requirements for an honor, they should not be given it. Kovalchuk has grown up, and if he stays with this team I think he should definitely get the honor of the “A”, I just don’t think he deserves it more than any of the people I mentioned (including Zhitnik), nor do I think he is ready for that responsibility.

A person doesn’t get a Congressional Medal of Honor for showing that if the time came he/she’d display those attributes. Rather, the person displays those attributes and IS REWARDED for their actions.

Course, that’s my personal opinion, because I think captaincy is very important to team chemistry, and I think it’s more an honor than a reward for being a high scoring passionate player. It’s a reward for OVERALL leadership, not just performance.

Bob (whichever of the two I’m talking to now) — I understand him being the “heart and soul” of the fans, but please go further with your explanation of how he’s the heart and soul of the franchise. I know people look to him for his offensive ability, but I’ve always perceived Kovalchuk as a player more interested in his personal accomplishments than the teams’ accomplishments. I think he grew out of that SOMEWHAT this past season, but look at that 10 game stretch where after every post he’d look to the ceiling and throw a mini tantrum. That’s not captaincy, that’s not the soul, that’s egotism. I can understand if the game were close and that could’ve been the tying or winning goal, but he did that for 10 games straight, AT LEAST.

I’d like your opinion though, please.

eli72 — I know the rules state that, but I’m looking for why it is as such. The coach part makes sense, but the goalie doesn’t make sense to me. I’m really looking for any theories people might have, or even some sort of trivia into what created that portion of the rule. Is it similar in soccer? Lacrosse? Team handball? Water polo? Any other team sport that includes a goalie?? Just looking for some insight.

By Buzilla Baby Blues

July 6, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this

Isn’t Broudeur and Assiatant Captain?

By Buzilla Baby Blues

July 6, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Captain(icehockey)

Take it with a grain of salt…its wikipedia

By Hip Czech

July 6, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this

I think the goalie can’t be a captain due to logistics. The goalie is not allowed to go to the bench unless it’s for equipment problems (or he is being pulled for an extra skater).

I think the goalie having to skate up to the refs crease and then over to the bench to talk to the coach, then back to the goalie crease would delay the game too much.

I can’t think of any other reason. Soccer and lacrosse can have goalie captains, but I think that the interaction with refs and coaches is not to the same degree (at least in lacrosse, never played soccer).

By Sara

July 6, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

Courtesy of wikipedia: According to National Hockey League (NHL) rules, the captain is to be the only player who is allowed to talk with referees about rule interpretations. Goaltenders may not be designated as captains or alternate captains because of the logistical challenges of having the goaltender relay rules discussions between referees and coaches and then return to the crease.

Secondly, I cannot BELIEVE the offer to Vanek. I mean $7 mill+ a year - are you kidding me? BUT I think it will become more common now to tender big offers to RFAs to either a) swipe what you don’t have yourself or b) screw someone else’s payroll big time. Btw Bob there will be no offer to Crosby like that because he’s already said he intends to stay in Pittsburgh and he’ll take less than market pay to do it. Which prompted Staal and Malkin to also say they would take less money to remain with Pittsburgh as a group. How’s that for a home-town discount? Wonder if Hossa will be that nice? ;)

By Bob

July 6, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this

Ranallo-My opinion is that Ilya Kovlachuk is our best player,and his contract also confirms it. His passion and enery is seen on the ice. It is not egotism. He showed up in the playoffs. He’s the first player other teams try and shut down. Still scored over 40 goals without the supporting cast that the Hossa line had (Kozzie). Move Kozzie and the points would flip.Our record when Ilya scored a point was in excess of 20 games above .500…by far best on the team. I think we are faster, deeper and what will be most critical for the upcoming season is two things. Avoiding injuries and Kari evolving from being good to be great. If he can develop to a “Broduer, Luongo,Gigere” type that consistently carries the team we can have a huge year.

By Matt H

July 6, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this

Another interesting side note on Eric Perrin from Hockeybuzz.

I see your POV, ranallo. I’m not honestly sure I have an opinion on the matter yet, which is why I put it out there. After the playoffs, I’m honestly not sure anyone on the team is fit to wear a “C” until at least a quarter of the way through this next season. Hell, I’d be hesitant to hand out “A”s after our playoffs….

But somebody’s gotta wear ‘em…

By Hip Czech

July 6, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this

Hey, not bad…honest, I DID NOT see the wikipedia entry ;-)

The Vanek thing makes you wonder why more teams don’t make offers for RFA, to a lesser degree. Zach Parise and Marek Svatos come to mind. Offer them 2.5- 3 million a year and all it costs you is one first round pick. Seems like it would be a no-brainer.

Unless there is some sort of ‘gentlemen’s agreement’ that it won’t be done, unless it is a Sabre.

By JayBird

July 6, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the link, Matt H. That is a very interesting article. You can tell the guy is hungry, which is a great sign. I know all of us want him to stick it to Tampa. Hopefully the stability in Atlanta keeps his drive going. Welcome to Blueland, Eric, good to have you!

By Brendan

July 6, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

I don’t know what the truth is, but … there might be a “perception” out there that Buffalo can’t hold its players or that they’re in the midst of some “firesale.” I doubt either are true. But this offer by Edmonton, a market that should HARDLY try to DRIVE UP COSTS, does raise the eyebrows. GM Kevin Lowe is a decent GM. But he’s got to know that what comes around goes around. And when one of theirs comes due for signing, payback can be a …. Edmonton isn’t armed with unlimited cash reserves to go match offers. What if the Oilers are on the bubble, and need to “rent” a Sabre at the deadline. Let’s say, their blueline is depleted, and they want Kalinin, Paetsche, or Teppo Numminen. Buffalo can jackup the draft picks they’ll demand to cough up the player. Or, they just tell them to “pound sand. Numminen’s gonna retire a Sabre.” Or Numminen can dealt ELSEWHERE, maybe to one of the Oiler’s Western Conference Rivals. What if they’re “neck-n-neck” with the Flames? Both teams sit tied for 8th spot at the deadline. What says the Sabres won’t “rent” to Calgary now, instead? GM Lowe can’t blame Buffalo for how it chooses to “rent” its players. That’s a hypothetical, folks. I think the Sabres will make the playoffs, even without Drury and Briere. They’ve drafted well. And the offseason is far from over. Several teams won’t like the arbitration decisions and the Sabres and Oilers, for that matter, can then swoop in to try to collect the best of the remaining UFAs.

By Shoot it

July 6, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this

Thanks Matt H. I hope he does not have the same problem with BH or he is at least on one the top lines.

By ranallo10

July 6, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this

Bob — I definitely don’t disagree with you on his performance, and how his abilities affect the team. My opinion is that abilities are not the only qualifiers for the captaincy of a team, but rather sportsmanship, influence upon the team in the locker room (I can’t say he doesn’t have that), influence upon the team ON THE ICE (helping them rise up from adversity, staying composed during rough situations, etc), and an overall love for the game. Does Kovalchuk possess these traits?? Hossa seems to, Kozlov does too, as does Holik. I can’t remember seeing Havelid go up to a defenseman after a goal and giving him some veteran advice (like de Vries did at times), but apparently he’s got some influence upon the team. I don’t think Kovalchuk has that quality yet, but could in time.

As a counter to your point, Marc Savard was top 3 on this team in points, top 3 on Boston in points, and was a solid performer and integral past of the offense for both teams. He doesn’t have an “A” or a “C” though, does he? Scott Mellanby definitely didn’t lead this team in points, in time on ice, in +/-, or in ANY statistical category save for AGE, but yet he was the team captain AND RIGHTFULLY SO. He was a leader, and showed that at 40 he could still hang with 20-30 year old kids. His fight against Washington solidified his “C” status.

Everyone else — thanks for the links from Wikipedia, that sorta makes sense. I do think it’s a little goofy though, since most times captains are seen as useful when there is a replay, which means time is stopped. The 2 minutes a replay takes is plenty of time for the goalie to be anywhere he wants, which is why you often see them at the bench getting water, getting coached, or checking out the ice girls (cough cough Brodeur cough). No matter, you answered my question…thanks.

By Bob

July 6, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this

Hossa is our best player, not Kovy.

Kovy doesn’t deserve the C, or an A. Ranallo World got something right, captaincy is earned through respect. You don’t demand or hand out respect, you earn it.

Sara, the only way they can avoid an offer sheet to Crosby is to extend his contract now, before he becomes a RFA. And if Crosby said that, they have to now or some smart a* GM will simply offer him the max to force the Pens hand into making them pay him the max. That would surely be refreshing to see Sid re-sign now for sub market value, in an effort to keep the core of their kids together.

By Brendan

July 6, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this

Hip Czech, I think the NHL should make the rules much more punitive to raid an RFA. Instead, they “relaxed” them. In an offer like Edmonton’s to Vanek, the cost ought to be one 1st round pick for EACH MILLION in “cap hit.” So, in this case, $7.14 million, it would be seven (7!!) first round picks. That would prevent, or greatly discourage, the RFA offer sheet. And it would be there, hypothetically, to PROTECT EDMONTON, and teams like Edmonton, from being raided by the Rangers, Devils, Flyers, Capitals, Leafs and Red Wings.

Being 100% truthful, I am flabberghasted with the State of Hockey under this CBA. I supported the lockout, provided that it fixed the inequities that existed in the league and made a better product that was “fair” to all markets.

Did it do that? For the 1st year, I’d say “yes.” Second year? Pretty close, but not as good as the first year. In Year Three, I bet even Don Waddell, if there were no repercussions for it, would start “opining” about the subject, quite vociferously.

Now, if I discovered that markets like Atlanta, Nashville, Calgary, Buffalo, Carolina, Phoenix, Edmonton, Ottawa, etc., were actually getting $20 million in revenue-sharing. I’d let it go. If the owners don’t invest their revenue-sharing dollars back into payroll, then that’s their own fault, and fans should vote with their wallets, in that instance.

I don’t know what revenue-sharing parameters exist in the league. It’s not published. So, I don’t know if I have to revise my stance on this or not. But the argument that says, “The big markets are just screwing themselves by overpaying and overcommitting to contract lengths” just isn’t placating me. I can’t be anesthetized by that one. It’s an unfair situation that a 27 year old, with as much as 10 years left in his career, with the PRIME YEARS still in front of him, can be wrested away from a small market that drafted him, just because its got virtually unlimited luxury box and soldout season ticket revenue … that accompanies being a LARGE MARKET, “traditional hockey power,” where hockey is part of the cultural landscape, and has been, since about 1924. Or thereabouts.

Yes, seven years down the road, the Rangers, or whoever, are still paying Gomez $7+ million a year. And will he still be worth it? Well, what says the Rangers, or whoever, can’t trade him or buy him out? Only to raid the NEXXXT budding piece of talent? If this cap keeps on growing, they’ll find the room. Or manage the roster, such that less significant pieces of the roster are moved to clear cap space. See? See how the “rich” always profit from their position of power? Atlanta couldn’t pay Briere $10 million if it WANTED to. And if did, it’d handcuff itself in the process. God forbid he get injured or become unproductive or untradeable.

“Buying him out” still hurts Atlanta’s market more than it does New York’s, hypothetically. Though not “technically.” It would depend on the “status” of the Rangers cap. But, GENERALLY SPEAKING, the Rangers don’t have to operate on any “Self-imposed” caps. They’ve got the moolah. And can generate MORE moolah. NYC is always going to be a regional HQS for the wealthiest of American business firms. They’ll buy these seats as a business expense, no matter WHAT the business expense costs. Is that true in Phoenix? Is that true in Nashville? Is that true in Buffalo? Or Atlanta? And if it isn’t true, then INEQUITY exists. The cap was supposed to remove inequity among the teams, to give every team a fair and equal chance. We had that … for a brief while. Carolina and Anaheim got those Cups. The major difference now and the pre-lockout … is that no team can spend $88 million on payroll anymore. But if this cap reaches $60 million in the next two seasons, teams will be able to have 5-6 “star players” on a roster. And they might just be enough, especially with “rental possibilities” at the trade deadline. By $60 million in cap limit, even the “floor” may become too cost prohibitive for a market to remain viable. Don’t worry, though. Some other market will SWOOP in to convince the NHL that it “can support” an NHL franchise, and their rink is ready to go, with a Mayor that’s put all sorts of tax perks into the package to make it happen.

That won’t happen here, mind you. We’ve got a 20 year lease. But that it could happen to someone else, is cause enough for concern. All while the league “blesses” awarding franchises to anyone, even Jim Balsillie, potentially, who can arrange the financing. It’d give a team to Arthur Blank in two seconds. Uggh. Arthur Blank with a hockey team is no different than a “mule with spinning wheel.” No one’s quite sure how he got it, and darned if he knows what to do with it.

By ranallo10

July 6, 2007 4:46 PM | Link to this

It’s like an amusement park…COME TO RANALLO WORLD, BRING YOUR WIFE OR GIRLFRIEND! BE WARNED YOU MIGHT GO HOME ALONE!! (PS - no J.P. Vigier’s, Mick McGeough’s, or Pierre McGuire’s allowed)

Okay, just playing, I think Sage has a crush on me and I don’t want to upset him/her (please be a her).

By Buzilla Baby Blues

July 6, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this

That was from the Simpsons “Monorail” episode. Love that episode

By Brendan

July 6, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this

I have heard the Penguins will re-sign Crosby this Summer. I suspect, he’ll do it at a discount. He (Crosby) knows good-n-well that he’ll never be hurting for money again in his life. That part’s pretty much already settled. What isn’t settled, not by a longshot, is how many Cups he’ll win. Messier’s got six. Gretzky’s got four. I bet he’s targeting this area, as a goal for himself. To do that, especially in a market like Pittsburgh, he’s going to have to “opt” for a less.

By Bob

July 6, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this

Ranallo- Savard is clearly not leadership material, so I agree. Ultimately, C and A will be up to the coach and GM, right or wrong.As fot on ice I wish all our players had Kovy’s intensity. Bob Hartley once said only Patrick Roy had more of a will to win than Ilya of players he has coached.

Bob, I disagree that Hossa is our best player. He may be our most complete player and is a great talent, very strong on the puck. I think Ilya and Kari both have more pure talent for their positions. The other issue with Hossa, is although I fully give him his due as a great player and I will not be negative about any of our players, but the fact is he has never shown up in the playoffs. The level of his future contracts will probably be less than maxed due to that fact.

By Hip Czech

July 6, 2007 5:30 PM | Link to this

How happy was Tomas Vanek to see Briere and Drury sign somewhere else?

Brendan - just to add fuel to your economic doomsday scenario, an article on cbs.sportsline says the cap increase is due largely to HIGHER TICKET PRICES, not to MORE TICKETS SOLD. And, if the cap is reduced in any future year, these teams signing guys to 5-7 year deals are going to be hurting.

I wonder how much Edmonton just wanted to stick it to the league because of the Nylander situation? If so, too bad Buffalo has to suffer the consequences.

By Brendan

July 6, 2007 5:56 PM | Link to this

I don’t understand the “Nylander situation” either. Hopefully, some “good” will come out of it. And perhaps the “rules of negotiation” will be more clearly spelled out. My Sabres fan in Tyrone told me (this is “hearsay”) that Buffalo had Chris Drury under contract, something like 5-years/$25 million, but his camp never sent back the signed papers, back in February. He also told me that the reason Drury didn’t sign was contingent upon Buffalo re-signing Briere. When that didn’t happen, Drury left. Briere, allegedly, supposedly, was “offended” that Buffalo didn’t begin contract renegotiations with him on January 2nd, when the opportunity first presented itself.

If all this “hearsay/speculation” is true, then what does is say about the “fragile egos” of some of these players. At least Don Waddell would have an excuse as a hypothetical GM of the Sabres, “I don’t negotiate during the season. That’s policy. That’s why I didn’t offer you a contract, Briere.”

But, if this is REALLY how Briere thinks and feels, he wouldn’t care a bit about “policy.” His attitude would be, “Sign me NOW!! If you want to keep me.”

By ranallo10

July 6, 2007 6:02 PM | Link to this

How many players in this league are worth 4 first round draft picks?? What player would you (as a fan) be happy that your team picked up at the cost of 4 first round picks???

The answer to that question should put to rest the “unfair” aspect of this situation.

Buffalo is not made of money, so if they couldn’t afford to re-sign Vanek, they don’t HAVE to match the offer from Edmonton. In return, they get a return of four first round picks. That’s a helluva deal in my opinion (even though Vanek is good). Not only does Edmonton screw themselves draft wise, they also have a large chunk of money put into ONE player, thus restricting them cap wise for future additions to make up for those draft choices.

New York has just as many chances of losing a player via RFA as they do gaining a player. There is no glaring advantage they have over another team. After the contracts they signed Drury and Gomez to, plus the fact that they have Lundqvist to still sign (he’s an RFA), they have a limited amount of cap space to work with. Edmonton could easily offer Lundqvist a huge contract, and force New York to completely bind themselves monitarily, or give up their starting goalie for draft picks. You can screw the big spenders just as much as they can screw you…I see that as a much more even playing field than in 2003 when New York could spend $80M+ and STILL be signing the top free agents.

I’m sorry Brendan, but I don’t see the current state of the NHL and the CBA the same way you do…smarter people than us had been working on this for a lot longer than we’ve thought about it. Though it’s not perfect it’s far better than it used to be.

By Brian

July 6, 2007 6:15 PM | Link to this

Brendan - the Buffalo media has reported for awhile that Drury wasn’t even contacted. Right after the playoffs everyone was all over that fact and Drury was saying it.

I think everyone here agrees on the Captain debate. One thing that came to mind for me was last season when Hossa got the cheap hit against Montreal. First Kovy went over to stand up, KT wouldn’t let him and took the guy out with 2 punches. Right then and there I immediately said “step aside Mell, this guy just became our unofficial captain“…

As for a goalie, Hasek was an obvious choice for that in Buffalo. One thing that was also mentioned is that they don’t even play every game. But whether it is that or the “he can’t talk to the ref on the other side of the ice” argument, that’s why 2 other guys where the “A”.

By Thrasher Ryan

July 6, 2007 6:50 PM | Link to this

Sign Alexei Yashin! Sign Marcel Hossa! Give Marian Hossa A New Contract! Then we will be done.

By Tim

July 6, 2007 6:50 PM | Link to this

Brendan I also believe that if you buy out a contract from a player, the cap hit will be less but will still be there. It is what they called “Dead Cap”.

By ranallo10

July 6, 2007 7:13 PM | Link to this

Brendan — About your friend from Buffalo…for all you know he could be like the “hearsay” type people here in Atlanta who claimed Kozlov was definitely going to be signed by Detroit because he was “thrown under the bus” by Waddell. Consider the source he received his information from…remember, at one point people here were stating that due to Waddell’s long history of throwing key players under the bus and letting them walk without trying to negotiate (well, not SERIOUSLY negotiate, but just the save-face type negotiations to feed us Waddellites scraps so we’ll keep making excuses for him), that Kozlov would never be re-signed and hoping for such was futile. It’s not hard to imagine such a rumor spreading to Detroit, and taken as fact because those posters were “fans of Atlanta and in Atlanta”.

My point is that your friend might just be hearing rumors from fanatics with something against Drury, some bitter fans, people who don’t like Regier, etc. As people here have said about Hockeybuzz and Eklund, treat second hand sources from unofficial outlets like they’re just rumor mongers. Your friend might have been telling the truth, or he could just be spreading rumors he felt was the truth. As you said, it’s hearsay.

By Brian

July 7, 2007 12:19 AM | Link to this

Brendan - I just found out tonight that Buffalo could have had Drury last fall, but the Sabres mgt were the ones who waited, and when they went back Drury took the deal off the table. For only $5.5mm/year I might add.

What’s even more absurd is that they are going to match the Vanek offer. This is crazy or reactionary to losing Drury & Briere. Straight up, you have to take Drury over Vanek. Yet they both signed for the same price, just over $7mm/year.

Now if you lose Vanek you would get FOUR 1st round picks from Edmonton. So instead of paying Vanek $7m/year, they could be paying Drury $7m/year and have four 1st round picks as well. I don’t know if they are slow to react, stupid or just plain crazy.

By Brendan

July 7, 2007 12:24 AM | Link to this

Well, I asked him what his source was and he said something like Sabresnet? Pfft, I’d never heard of it. It’s a non-issue for me, anyway. If the Sabres are dismantled a bit, it’s probably good for Atlanta.

In fairness to Buffalo, last year, they were the Presiden’t Trophy winner and a good bet to win the Cup, or least get there. One offseason removed, they’ve lost two of their major stars, and nearly lost a third. Now, I’ll grant you, Ranallo, that if Buffalo got Edmonton’s four 1st round picks, that’s a hefty chunk of the Oilers’ ability to bring in young, quality prospects. It’d be particularly damaging if they wound up being top five type picks. Or even if a “few” of them were top five picks.

But just for giggles, Ranallo, I know how much YOU JUST ADORE “what if” scenarios, (Hey, you OPENED THE DOOR for this!!!,) let’s suppose the Oilers actually “profited,” for lack of a better word, from the Vanek acquisition/theft. More specifically, that the Oilers wound up in the playoffs all four years.

Still with me? Well, then those picks START at #15 in the draft. The first 14 go to non-playoff teams. So, if the old “standard” still holds true, that picks #1-10 are pretty solid, and and picks #11-30 are a “crapshoot,” and #31 and beyond are characterized as “a shot in the dark,” thennnn …. (still with me?) what Edmonton did … was steal a rising young star, (taken 5th overall, 2003,) during the PRIME OF HIS YOUTH, from a small market organization at an optimum time of critical need … for … essentially … “crapshoot picks.” What if (there’s that favorite clause again) those picks turned out to be #22, #24, #25, and #26, respectively, over those four years?

The word I’m looking for here is, “highway robbery.” Granted, yes … a good GM finds a way to make a good selection or even trades up to get a better player, or trades down, to stockpile at positions of need, in a DEEP draft. But I wouldn’t “pencil in” a guy taken 28th overall as a surety to be in the lineup in three years’ time.

Is Vanek worth $7.14 million in cap hit? That’s a debatable issue. Some will say “yes, 43 goals, +47, averaging somewhere between 20-25 mins of ice time a game. Sure.” Hmmn, sounds like an arbitrator. The truth is … we don’t have enough “sampling” to go by. He’s a 2nd year player!! Thank you, GM Kevin Lowe, for driving up the cost of all 2nd year guys who get 40 goals! All your fellow GM’s just adore you now! Thanks!! Especially for opening up that Pandora’s box of attacking RFA’s. Oh fiiiine. It’s a business. It makes sense, sometimes. Well good. Wait ‘til it happens to Edmonton. Who’ll listen to their sob story, now? It’s not like the Oilers assaulted the Flyers or Rangers or Red Wings, teams with ample money. They went after Buffalo. These two cities are in the same boat.

Sabres GM Regier vociferously said, “We matched the offer to show the rest of the league that it can’t come shopping here.” Regier reportedly said, “I warned Lowe that if he proceeded with this offer sheet, that we’d match it. He must have thought we were bluffing. This was nothing more than an exercise in futility.”

Well, yes and no. It did manage to drive up costs. For the very moment, Vanek’s making more than Crosby. He just got MORE than Briere and Drury! With all of two (2!!), count ‘em, two years’ tenure. With salaries already going BONKERS, this isn’t helping any. And how many guys who are arbitration eligible are gonna pass on it now? Whatever their rookie contract may have been, the door’s now OPEN for a 50-100 percent or more pay raise. What’d Vanek make last year? $940K? Something like that. Now he’ll average over $7 million. What’s that, a 600% increase? Thanks Kevin Lowe!! Don Waddell appreciates that, as he deals with his RFAs and future RFAs. What’s Bryan Little gonna ask for down the road. Or Lehtonen, next Summer. Or Valabik, potentially? Let us not forget the budding glove hand of netminder Ondrej Pavelec. His time will come, too.

Kevin Lowe’s strategy was “brilliant.” Even if he had pulled it off, he’s gotta go pay Vanek, just like you said. And that’s gonna hurt his ability to go get “help” for Vanek on his line. He won’t be able to “draft it” as easily, since he gave up four 1st rounders.

There ARE a few players for which it is worth giving up 4 first round picks. You know who they are. You’d do it for Crosby or Ovechkin, and ya know it. “Can’t miss Superstars” … for “crapshoot picks?” Yeah. I think I’d do that, too. The list doesn’t end with Crosby and Ovechkin, either.

Panthers Center Stephen Weiss, unless just recently signed, is probably “giddy” over the prospect of Oilers GM Kevin Lowe now giving him an “offer sheet” for $7.0 million. And Florida would have to match it, to keep him. Weiss was selected 4th overall, in 2001. Nothing prevents Kevin Lowe from trying this again, until he gets someone he wants. But each time he tries it, he becomes more “personna non-gratta” with each attempt. Just for clarification, I wouldn’t give up 4 first round picks for Weiss, in case there was any confusion about that.

I do feel bad for Kevin Lowe losing Nylander like that. I can understand his frustration, especially after losing Ryan Smythe, over the sum of what? He wanted $5.5 million. The Oilers said, $5.4 million. Smythe countered with, “How ‘bout $5.5 million, but I agree to buy a luxury suite from you for $100,000.” For some reason, the Oilers said, “no.” Now look at them. Throwing money “wildly” a 2nd year player like Vanek. What if (there it is again) Vanek’s past season was a “fluke?” Or that he put up numbers because the opposition’s shut down line focused on Briere and Drury?

Well??? Hey, I do think Vanek is good. $7 million worth?? I wouldn’t have said so. But the market is now setting the value, thanks to GM Kevin Lowe. So, maybe we have to reevaluate what 10, 20, 30, or even 40 goals is now worth. Break out the new pay scale. Hossa scored 43, I think? Ummn, quite a few times now in his career. What will Hossa now be able to command in his next contract? Ooops.

I repeat, I’m not happy with the economic landscape of the NHL. We’re gonna see teams Unable to meet the “floor” of the cap very soon. Is this how the league builds “healthy franchises?” I don’t think they learned anything at all. And I do hope the cap shrinks in the future, and all these GMs who did 7-8 year deals … have to deal the mess they created. Then again, maybe they’re figuring on another “lockout” and 24% rollback in 2011.

Maybe that’s why Briere and now Vanek will make $10 million in pay (salary, not cap hit) right up front. They don’t want that money rolled back before the CBA expires. They want it lining their pockets now.

By Brendan

July 7, 2007 12:37 AM | Link to this

I agree with you, Brian. I truly do. Shoot, even last Fall Drury for 5-years @$5.5 million had good value. Kovy makes a cap hit of $6.5. Not to start WWIII, but I know which guy I’d rather have for that kinda money.

But, at this point, bloggers will point out … guys like Kovy and Vanek are still very young, with potentially many years still left to play. Briere and Drury, far from fossils, don’t have as much time left, by comparison.

When does the Kings’ Anze Kopitar hit RFA status? Anyone know off-hand? Mike Cammalleri can’t WAIT for his arbitration hearing! Shoot, if it weren’t forbidden, he’d CALL Kevin Lowe to tell him, “Bid on me, next!! I want 7 years! Make the Kings match! Gimme $46.5 million!!” When’s Frolov coming due for RFA status?

Aww, this is gonna be fun!!

By DocSnowDog

July 7, 2007 1:08 AM | Link to this

Does anyone here know what’s up with Steve Rucchin? The last thing I remember about him was that he was injured and had shingles (?).

By pondscum

July 7, 2007 1:29 AM | Link to this

I don’t feel bad for the Oilers in anyway. They screwed themselves for trading for Lupol,when they had a shot at any of Penner,Getzlaf,and Perry from the Ducks in the Pronger deal. Now,they have a nearly 40 year old Sanderson to show for it.

They low balled Ryan Smyth,it was only a couple hundred grand that kept them from keeping him in Edmonton.

Now Lowe has really screwed up the payscale in the NHL with this retarded offer and saying basically “either trade with us or we’ll make your budget hell”.

Not to forget the to soon annoucement that they had signed Nylander,only to find out yet again they had screwed that up.

I hope this jacka$$ is fired soon and “black listed” from now on.

And also, I came across something yesterday for the schedule release date. July 11th it said,as soon as I remember where the heck I came across it I’ll post it up for everyone.

AGAIN, I don’t know how true or accurate it is,so save the rage please.

By Jameson

July 7, 2007 1:45 AM | Link to this

I’m starting to get a bit concerned about where Sterling is going to wind up this year. I have high hopes for him, but have this sinking suspicion that if he isn’t played where he needs to be this season, he’ll wind up a bust. It seems to me that he belongs on the LEFT side of a scoring line. A lot of people have been listing him with Kovy, but as far as I know, he’s only ever played left wing. Maybe I’m over estimating the importance of which side of the ice they’re on. But, I’ve always heard that the responsibilities of the wings differ.

By Tony C.

July 7, 2007 5:12 AM | Link to this

Yeah #17 is a LW…but I don’t think he’d have too much trouble transitioning to RW…although he may-I think that’s pretty much been his position since he was 13….who knows?

What I’d like to know is who you’d put between Sterling and #17??? Holik? Rucchin (providing he re-discovers how to skate fast)? White?

I dunno I’m still of the opinion that we need a big body on #17’s line so as to put in the garbage…Maybe that’s the reasoning behind some of DW’s additions…

Also, are yall really sold on the Havelid/Zhitnik pairing?

Why not put each with a hitter? Oh yeah, because our best hitter is a 2nd pairing kinda guy…grr….I’m just not sold on those two as our top pair. I want more grit out of my top pair.

Hope yall have a good weekend.

What is up with Lowe? does he want to be lynched? I am flabbergasted by the offer…maybe he’s just trying to screw Regier over?

peace.

By Pucks n Snot

July 7, 2007 9:19 AM | Link to this

A HA HA HA HA HA!!!! Ken Klee is going to save the Thrashers from 7 seasons of defensive calamity!!! Atlanta has some of the best defensive prospects in hockey - yeah, like BRAYDON COBURN, RIGHT?? Wasn’t he supposed to be the next Pronger when he was drafted? Only time I ever saw him in a highlight was after he got his faced bashed in trying to fight someone. No matter who you have your coaches will screw them up. Valabik will be the next joke that finds his way to another organization in exchange for peanuts after he falls on his face. If you think Hossa is going to sign down there long term you are all on DOPE. The Wings need another forward and have acres of defensman to spare…… Waddell should get smart and do a sign & trade so that Hoss can hoist the Cup in Hockeytown, rather than wasting the best years of his career down there. Atlanta is going to give up so many goals this year they’ll have to swap out their torn & tattered nets between every period. A HA HA HA HA HA HA!!!!

By GSU-Lee

July 7, 2007 9:23 AM | Link to this

Does anyone even pay attention to Pucks n Snot?

By UpperDeck4Life

July 7, 2007 9:30 AM | Link to this

R.Stroz we should be getting the Northwest here this year if I am thinking correctly.

Jameson you are correct, Sterling is a natural LW, but he has played on the right and I’ve talked to a couple of people who have said he would have no problem moving over to the right to play with Kovy. I have also heard that he has a great work ethic and will work as hard or harder than his teammates.

By B. Thenet

July 7, 2007 10:30 AM | Link to this

P&S- Congrats on signing a 33 year old undersized defenseman to a 5 year $30 million deal.

What a move!!

While has it been unofficial for the past couple of seasons, congrats on being in the worst division in hockey.

By Tim

July 7, 2007 10:41 AM | Link to this

I think what’s going to happen in the future is that teams will try to lock out their importants RFA before they hit the free agent status. But then again, as a player they could simply decline the offer.

By Brendan

July 7, 2007 10:47 AM | Link to this

Jameson, I missed your question from earlier above. The Arbitrator will listen to the argument about how and why a players should be paid MORE than the qualifying offer. The GM cannot withdraw the amount of the player’s qualifying offer. He’s bound to that.

Even if the arbitrator did say, “I think Slater’s only worth $650,000,” (chuckling,) Don’s still on the hook for $990,000. I think that was the requisite 10% increase over his previous year’s salary.

I’m not too sure Slater’s worth $990,000. But, then again, with the “new payscale,” maybe he is. One thing is for sure, Slater cannot finish under 10 goals again this season and hope to land big $$ down the road.

By Brendan

July 7, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this

Tim, if the Penguins don’t lock up Crosby a year in advance, (As in right now,) he’ll become an RFA next Summer and GM Kevin Lowe will swoop in to offer him 10 years at $10.0 million, for $100 million. Strike that, NY Isles owner, Charles Wang, via his lickspittle, GM Garth Snow, will offer 20 years for $200 million. If the Penguins don’t match the offer, then Crosby is gone.

Is that “legal?” Sadly, it is. Which is why the Penguins must now negotiate a YEAR IN ADVANCE just to keep their player. And what if Crosby didn’t like Pittsburgh? He didn’t choose Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh drafted him. (Look, this is hypothetical, okay. I’m sure Crosby’s very happy in Pittsburgh.) But you see the “difficulty” that an organization now faces, when it is a small market competing in a high cap environment.

Imagine … just IMAGINE … if the Penguins lost Crosby after just three years, on some “power grab” by ANY team who can max out its cap to sign him. And how would Commissioner Bettman “spin” that move? We all remember the “Sidney Crosby sweepstakes” where EVERY team had “some shot” at landing the #1 pick in the 2005 draft. With a belief that the sweepstakes winner just might have the next Gretzky.

Penguins win it, then Crosby’s gone within three years?? At the conclusion of his “capped” rookie contract!!

Imagine the rage! Can you even begin to feel the outrage that would cause? Not just in Pittsburgh, but around the league.

Okay, so you’re the Penguins. Now what? Do you give Crosby 10 years? 15 years? How do you possibly “lock up” what could be the player of his generation? Hey, you must at least acknowledge that Crosby “could be” the best player in the NHL over the next 10 years. At least, potentially. But you’re not done yet. You must also get him linemates, and KEEP them, too. So? So can’t just throw the $10.06 million maximum at him. You’ve got to convince him to take less, using “that” as the argument.

We’ve already seen, via (NY Isles) Rick DiPietro’s 15 year deal, worth $67.5 milllion, that the league doesn’t “intervene” to say, “No, we won’t allow this kind of idiocy.” Instead, their press release said, “We do not interfere in the contract process. Sometimes deals work out well. And sometimes they don’t. The risk is undertaken by the team making the offer.” You’ll recall, Tim, that some people actually thought DiPietro’s deal smacked of “brilliance.” With the underlying belief that $4.5 million might be a STEAL of a contract price for a CAREER GOALTENDER. I think more “level-headed” minds said, “This is nuts. This guy could get injured. It might be beneficial for a few years, but then you’re stuck paying him to ride the pine, until he retires. And he’ll be 40 when the contract expires.” Not to mention that, ya know, none of us know what will happen to the cap from one year to the next. If the cap shrinks, you could be in a heap of trouble. Sorry, this post got too long.

By Sara

July 7, 2007 12:45 PM | Link to this

Regarding this whole Crosby thing and tendering offers to players. I’ll try to research this later but I’m pretty sure the player has to actually ACCEPT the tendered offer first, which then leaves the team holding his RFA rights the chance to match the offer. So GMs can OFFER Crosby all the money they want but if he doesn’t actually take the tendered offer, Pittsburgh isn’t on the hook for anything. The potential ramifications of allowing just a tendered offer to set the price for a player are too ugly and frankly unethical to permit.

Two examples are Vanek this year and Fedorov about 10 years back. Both were tendered offers and ACCEPTED those offers before their respective rights-holding teams matched the offer sheet to keep them.

Likely it’s moot on the Crosby issue since it’s already been reported that talks on his contract extension are about to begin.

Those are the kind of players though that are rare - to take less money. The only other place I’ve seen it is in Detroit where a number of their star players over the years have taken less money or at least been willing to defer money in order to leave more room for other players. Stevie Y did it a bunch, Hasek did it this year, Lidstrom has done it and intends to take a pay cut after his contract expires next season. A lot of people like to hate on that organization, but they’ve got a lot of character throughout their team and management. Hopefully one day the Thrashers can reach the same point.

By Bob

July 7, 2007 1:30 PM | Link to this

Bob, great I’m talking to myself now, Hossa is a 2way player, that’s why he’s one of the top 10 forwards in the league and why he’ll command the top scale in his next contract. Kovy isn’t one of the top elite guys because he’s not a 2way player. Offensively, except on the shootout, you want him on your club, one of the top PP guys in the league. But to be elite, you got to play both ends great.

Ranallo, there’s a lot of guys I, and most clubs out there, would give 4 picks for. That’s why it’s been an unwritten rule not to pull this crap. Booby Clarke pulled it last year offering a stupid contract for some 3rd liner. There’s probably 5 or 6 goalies, and 20 skaters who would be RFAs that I’d trade to the picks for. If the picks you had were #15 plus anyway (meaning you were a competitive club), you’re giving away what, guys like Jimmy Slater or a Patrick Stefan to get a LaCavalier, either Staal, Ovechkin, Lundqvist, Crosby, Malkin, et al That’s a no brainer, and why it’s been an unwritten rule that the GM’s don’t go the offer sheet route.

Great news for the young stars. They can get UFA money in the 4th pro year. 22 yr olds making near league max.

By David

July 7, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

The move by Lowe was brilliant. He doesn’t want Vanek and he has no illusions on getting him. He’s Buffalo’s guy and he KNOWS THAT. He’s not trying to steal a player, come on guys.

Whoever it is that he wants, you’ll see him go after next, and he’ll get him much cheaper. I would bet a ton of money he’ll trade for somebody’s RFA rights. Maybe Parise? And the threat is, trade me the rights or I do this to you guys.

This may be a very “dirty” thing to do, but in my opinion it’s absolutely brilliant. He’ll end up getting the RFA he wants for the price he wants.

By ranallo10

July 7, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this

Bob (the one talking to himself) — I agree there several guys out there that a club could deem worthy of four first round picks, and you did well to name several of them. You’re right, that if all four picks were #15 or higher (assuming the OTHER team was competitive) it’d be tougher to find draft picks that can easily replace the player you lost. But you forget, with those 4 picks, your team now has 8 (EIGHT) first round picks over the next 4 years.

Any idiot GM can turn 4 first round draft picks into impact players that can easily replace the lost player. For example, if Buffalo declined the offer sheet and let Vanek walk, they could’ve used two draft picks immediately to get players on the second tier (like a Dainius Zubrus, a Mike Comrie, etc). Two of those picks could grab them two twenty eight year old players who combined score more points than Vanek, AND ARE CHEAPER.

It’s just an argument to consider, I’m not sure how sold I am myself on it. The main reason I bring it up is because I don’t think this is a calamity in the works, and that the NHL is severely flawed. Edmonton nearly screwed THEMSELVES, and wound up putting Buffalo closer to the cap instead (and Lowe will probably will get some dirty looks at the next GMs meeting).

If I was Regier, I would’ve had trouble matching so quickly. I would’ve looked at the next few years of the drafts, asked my scouts how strong they felt the upcoming talent would be (word on the street is that these next four years are getting stronger), etc. Losing a 23 year old scoring winger with high plus/minus is tough, but 7 years $50M is tough too.

Sara — You’re right, the player has to accept the offer from the non rights holding team. Crosby and his agent have stated publicly that they’ll take less to stay in Pittsburgh, so in my opinion this is a non-issue.

By Tim

July 7, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

Brendan Hum let me try this. Let pretend that I am the GM of the Pens. And we talking about Crosby who could be the greatest player for the next 10 years. Like you said, if Crosby like Pittsbugh that much, locking him up shouldnt be a problem.

Now, let say what if he dont like Pittsbugh and want out and someone actually tender him a contrat while he is RFA. Because under current CBA, the contract cap hit cannot exceed 20% of the current cap.

This is way much better because it make it easier for me to match the offer while prior to the lock out, NY could have offer a contract that I cannot match.

So now I have a choice to either match the offer or take 4 1st pick. Of course, 4 first pick do not worth Crosby, not to mention that the fans will not please. So it will be logical for me to match whatever contract he has receive.

Now here is the fun part. Since he dont like Pittsbugh, why wuld I kept him and having a chance of him becoming a cancer in the locker room? Because it is he that want out, and because I match the offer and actually try to kept him in my team, I have done everything I could and I can believe the fans will understand that as well. So either I can try to convince him to stay but if not, hey I can trade him away. Since we speaking of the greatest player for the next 10 years, why not announce it in the media that Crosby is available? I can garantee you that I’ll probably get better deal then… 4 1st pick and without the grudge from the fans :)

Of course, there are other situation that I can’t think of yet that may happens. But the thing is, because he is RFA, the team have the final words.

By Brendan

July 7, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

David, I do appreciate your feedback on this. Truly, I do. Different viewpoints are a GOOD thing, in my book. But I GENUINELY believe Lowe thought he could get Vanek. In other words, getting Vanek is how he placates his irate fanbase, over the losses of Nylander and Smyth. I think he thought Buffalo had become a “soft target,” and might be in rebuilding mode now, after losing Drury and Briere. So he figured, at that INFLATED PRICE, Buffalo wouldn’t match. He’d get his player. The picks he gave up, in his mind, could be “throw away” selections. He may be figuring the Vanek acquisition gets him back into the playoffs, along with some help for Vanek. I could be wrong, though.

Let’s say I am. And this was all “posturing” on Lowe’s part. Well, that’s a great way to make yourself one of the most disliked GM’s in hockey. To drive up the price like that, especially on a small market team. Not sure that’s so great of an idea, really. A GM can use all the “friends” he can get. For all the heat Don Waddell took for the Tkachuk gamble, what he did for St. Louis was a “nice gesture.” Namely, trading them back KT’s rights before the July 1st deadline, so that the Blues could have exclusive negotiating rights. At some point, perhaps, the Blues will toss Atlanta a similar bone.

But David, what if the Sabres called Lowe’s bluff?? He can’t withdraw the offer, as far as I know. He can’t say, “Sorry, kidding. Don’tcha know a joke when you see one?” When a GM submits an offer sheet, it’s binding, if signed by the player. And now, he’s got to pay Vanek at ABOVE his market value. (At least, I think so.) Plus, he has to cough up the picks. Last time I checked, overpaying players (think Holik) and coughing up draft picks during the offseason or trade deadline (Think, 2007 1st and 3rd, and 2008’s 2nd round for Tkachuk, and former 2005 1st round pick Alex Bourret, for Dupuis, and former 2003 1st round pick Braydon Coburn, for Zhitnik, and the 2007 2nd round pick for Vishnevski) are exactly the sort of thing that gets a GM into trouble, David.

That’s my opinion. Just meee. Alone. GM’s who overpay and surrender too many picks … are playing a dangerous gamble. If it was all posturing, Buffalo could have really stuck it to Kevin Lowe. He’d be there … I promise you, telling the world he’s STOLEN A GREAT FIND. He’d have to. What else could he say? “Say look, fellas. I was only kiddin’ around. I wasn’t serious? I won’t pay $7 million for Vanek or give up the picks.” That’s a lawsuit right there. And the league intervenes at that point.

By Brendan

July 7, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

Tim, you bring up a point I hadn’t thought of. Vanek did sign the offer sheet. Did he want to go to Edmonton? Maybe he did. Or, maybe he just wanted out of Buffalo? Maybe he’s thinking, without Drury and Briere, I’m the target the other teams will shut down. I won’t hit my numbers. Then again, is going to the Oilers the way to remedy that? Look, the Oilers do actually have some young talent. We all saw the 2006 Finals. So of that is still there.

But you bring up a good point, Tim. Tell the media you want to shop Crosby, and you’ll get a better deal that four 1st round picks!!

By Brian

July 7, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

GSU Lee - Does anyone pay attention to who?

Sara - I am confused by your post. You said “Both were tendered offers and ACCEPTED those offers before their respective rights-holding teams matched the offer sheet to keep them.” But didn’t Buffalo match the offer made by Edmonton and thus they will keep Vanek? So don’t you mean the player would have to accept the proposing team’s offer first?

On a sidenote, Kevin Lowe of Edmonton said it was in their best interest to bid on Vanek and drive up his price. Larry Quinn of the Sabres (he’s a level above Darcy Regier) said this - “When it comes to the Edmonton Oilers, if there’s an opportunity to put an offer sheet on a player as long as we’re alive, we’ll be comfortable doing that. They can expect it if it’s in our best interest.”

pondscum - I’m with you, I don’t feel bad for the Oilers either for the reasons you stated. But they seem to be claiming this is a cause and effect of getting screwed over in the Nylander case. That I actually think has some merit and they might just be p#ssed off about it.

By Brian

July 7, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

Brendan - one thing to speculate on is that Vanek & Ruff don’t always see things eye to eye…

By David

July 7, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this

Oh I think you’re right that if he was indeed bluffing he is going to be disliked very much and that i’d be hesitant to deal with him in the future. We’ll see if I’m right, but I would bet that within the next week he’ll make a move on somebody else.

I believe he knew that buffalo would do anything to keep vanek. The GM there pretty much has to or else he’ll have the entire town out for his head.

If I’m right about what Lowe is doing, it’s one of the ballsiest moves I’ve seen in this league in a while. You have to be prepared to pay this guy that amount if Buffalo goes “no thanks”. I don’t think he would have made the offer if he wasn’t prepared to back it up though.

Either way, I find the move very interesting. Should be fun to see what Edmonton does in the next week or so.

By Brendan

July 7, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

Tim, I want to throw this out there. What would your feeling be (anyone can chime in on this one,) if Isles GM Garth Snow actually did offer 20 years/$200 million to some RFA player, on an offer sheet?

Let’s pretend just for the moment, that a player like Crosby or Ovechkin actually reached RFA status next Summer. How hard, or if at all, would you hammer said player for signing the $200 million offer sheet?

I mean, this isn’t some game show where you hear, “And now, time for the banker. Here comes an offer, and then you’ll have to make a decision.” When the banker’s response is, “$200 million,” you don’t want to open any more cases!! You take the deal!! It’s $200 million! In “guaranteed money.”

Okay. But … I would think that Crosby and Ovechkin have enough sense about them to realize the economic parameters with which teams are operating. They’ll need linemates. It’s not like they’ll ever be hurting for money, at any point, EVER AGAIN. The goal ought to be, “winning championships.”

$200 million vs. winning championships. Okayyyy. But Brendan, you’re assuming the player can’t do both! Fiine. But I would like to hear other opinions, if you’re so inclined to comment.

Oh allright. Let me difuse this a bit. I know that no GM with a brain would allow Crosby or Ovechkin to ever make it to RFA status. They’d either re-sign them (#1 choice) or trade them, (#2 choice) just to prevent this very scenario from happening.

Uht-oh. There it is again. What if the other GM says, “why should I trade with you, when I can just submit an outrageous offer sheet to steal your player away next Summer?” You’ll either match it, or I cough up four “crapshoot picks” for the player of his generation, along with the price that reflects owning the player of his generation. A Crosby or Ovechkin should be the highest paid player, if they’re really the best two players in the league.

By Brendan

July 7, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this

David, do you think Lowe will target Zach Parise? Or maybe Center, Stephen Weiss, from the Florida Panthers. He can make those GM’s overpay. Or, he could again, with Buffalo, on Derek Roy. How many centers to the Sabres still have? Ryan and Clark MacArthur? The Oilers can make the Sabres pay dearly for Roy, too!

By Brendan

July 7, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this

Brian, I heard Briere wasn’t happy with his ice time with Ruff. Sometimes, he got benched. I know it was reported that Regier and Ruff re-signed for LESS than market value. But since Vanek actually SIGNED the offer sheet, it meant he was PREPARED to leave Buffalo. And since Drury and Briere also left. I am now beginning to wonder … if there’s a little acrimony in that Sabres lockerroom. I guess if Derek Roy also signs an offer sheet, if one is submitted to him, that’d be a tell-tale sign, perhaps? People would start to more than mutter, “why can’t the Sabres keep their players? Is it Lindy Ruff?” I think Ruff is the longest tenured coach in the league right now. Not sure who the longest tenured GM is. Waddell’s gotta be gettin’ close, I would think! And he’s not leavin’ anytime soon.

But … you and Ryan on the Sabres fans on the blog. What’s the scoop? Is Ruff the problem? Is it Regier? Or is it this Larry Quinn fellow. Who could be a bit of a “hothead.”

By Tim

July 7, 2007 5:00 PM | Link to this

Brendan Good point. but this is why I think the new CBA is nice ;)

20 years 200 millions. That’s a 10 millions cap hit. When the contract end, Crosby will be around 40. I could still match the offer, benefit for the first few years (prime years) then trade him away while he still have value. But then again, we speaking of Crosby who is still very young. I would prolly trade him away 8-9 years into the contract. But you did bring a good point ;)

By Brian

July 7, 2007 5:42 PM | Link to this

David & Brendan - Lowe is going after Parise.

Brendan - Ruff is not the problem. IF he signed for less than market value, I would ask by what standards and who is claiming that? Kozzy just signed for “less than market value” but that doesn’t mean he’s a problem. Ruff is a former captain of the Sabres, no way would he leave over a couple thousand $$. And why leave and jump around like Mike Keenan when he can be a legend in one place (more like a Coach K in CBB)?

Quinn is definitely a problem, he dates back to the old Teddy Nolan/John Muckler feud. People were surprised that he made his way back into the franchise (thanks to a new owner who didn’t know hockey but already saw a huge increase in franchise value). Quinn is the one that the town is blaming for screwing up the Drury deal last fall. Regier is either a problem or a genius depending who you talk to. He has been there the entire time with Ruff which predates DW (in the same offseason Ruff & Regier replaced Muckler when he was fired and Nolan when he quit).

By Brian

July 7, 2007 5:45 PM | Link to this

Brendan - I was also going to add, just because these players sign offer sheets that give them multi-million $$ pay raises doesn’t mean there’s a problem. Would you honestly not sign that offer sheet if you were Vanek or Briere? It just means they are going to take the money to play and there’s nothing un-American about that…

By Sara

July 7, 2007 5:51 PM | Link to this

I have no doubt that Lowe was serious in his offer to Vanek. He was probably hoping Buffalo wouldn’t be willing to pay him $7 mill a year. Had they signed either Drury or Briere (or both) I think that would have been the case. Lowe is in a PR disaster zone right now after all the crap that’s gone down in the last couple of seasons. Desperation can make anything possible.

Btw, David, that scenario you mentioned of Lowe approaching other GMs for trades or else wouldn’t happen. It’s called extortion and would get him fired and banned by the League forever for trying if not criminally prosecuted too boot.

As for Vanek - he may not want out of Buffalo at all. He might just want a lot of money coming his way for a long time. He could probably care less who gave it to him so long as he gets it. Some players are only out for number 1. As for why they lost Drury and Briere - I don’t know about Drury but I can guess why Briere left - probably because the Sabres offered him exactly what he asked for last year and was denied. Frankly I’d be unamused as well.

By Rawhide,...in the sun!

July 7, 2007 6:34 PM | Link to this

Greetings from Ft. Lauderdale, FL, fellow Bluelanders! - Great news on the Koslov and Dupris re-signings,…AWESOME!

Now let’s get busy getting 2 top line D-men and a center,…..Keeping Belanger around would be good!

Off to Key West tomorrow,…..check in later!

GO THRASHERS - IS IT OCTOBER YET???

By GSU-Lee

July 7, 2007 6:44 PM | Link to this

Brian, I said does anyone pay attention to Pucks N Snot…oh wait…now I get it…gotcha

By GaVaHokie

July 7, 2007 8:28 PM | Link to this

Did anyone go to Prospect Camp this weekend?.. I’d like to hear some updates.

By David

July 7, 2007 11:27 PM | Link to this

Sara But it could happen. It may not be a verbal threat, but it is sure as hell implied now. You can’t seriously tell me that if Lowe were to go and try to trade for the rights for a Zach Parise type player that the lou lamoriello wouldn’t have in the back of his mind how much he could have to pay parise if he truly wants to keep him. And if he doesn’t want to keep him, then he’ll trade the rights away.

It may be dirty, but what lowe has done is a very legal thing. He hasn’t done anything illegal and he won’t. It’s the nonspoken threat that is most dangerous. And it won’t get him in trouble, but it will make him a very feared and hated GM in the league.

Brendan I think Parise will be the target. Don’t forget that even though Parise is playing winger, he is a natural center. Either way, I expect Parise’s rights to be traded within the next two days or so to Edmonton.

Also, apparently Atlanta is on the rumor boards for a few players. Eric Boulton (not sure if I like being in on that rumor personally, but there are worse players), Bryan Berard (getting older, but i’ve always liked him), Brent Sopel (i think he’s too pricey for us), and Martin Gelinas (isn’t he like 40 now?).

BTW - anybody else think that Sather has completely killed the chemistry that they had from the last season? They made some big signings, but they lost nylander and it looks like they are going to lose shanny as well. I honestly don’t understand his philosophy.

By Brendan

July 7, 2007 11:30 PM | Link to this

Brian, I honestly have no idea how much Ruff or Regier is making. One of them got a 3-year deal and the other a two-year deal. The Source was www.cbs.sportsline.com/nhl whose exact words were, “Both signed at well below market value.” You’ll have to ask them what the market value is.

Well, it’s good to know it’s not Ruff that’s causing the problems in Buffalo. By the way, I didn’t mean to imply that Ruff’s allegedly signing for less money would be the reason players don’t like him, hypothetically. I was thinking more along the lines of … maybe his personality rubs them the wrong way. Or, they’re sensitive to benchings. Or, the team didn’t like the direction, philosophically, that he was on. But considering how well the Sabres have faired these past two seasons, I wouldn’t think there was remotely any issue over strategies.

Though, they didn’t have any answers for Ottawa, a team they dismissed handily in the 2006 playoffs. Coaches Tom Renney (NYR) and Ted Nolan (NYI) made a good showing against Buffalo.

I agree that signing a $200 million contract is hard to pass up, Brian. I couldn’t blame anyone for doing it. Not really. I won’t cry for them if they never win a Cup in their career, though. No one with that much money should be melancholy. ;)

But there might be a harsh media reaction to a $200 million contract signing for an NHL player. The Sports media doesn’t seem to like to acknowledge hockey much as one of the four major sports anymore. They now list them as baseball, football, basketball and NASCAR. And when the Stanley Cup Finals get outdrawn, TV-ratings-wise, by events that ought to pale in comparison to ANY game of the Finals, it would be surprising to see a contract of this value. Worse yet, you know it’s the fans who attend games who have to pay it. That’s where 76% of the league’s revenue is generated.

The thing that bothers me, Tim, about this CBA is that … GM Lowe just set the salary parameters for another team’s player. I would like to think that a contract should be between the GM and the player and/or his agent. But now, outside parties can have greater influence on it. Especially since the league just “relaxed” the compensation that teams get for RFA theft.

Yeah, I know what you’re gonna say. Isn’t that true, anyways, re: the salaries? The market sets the value. Former Bluejackets GM Doug MacLean used to overpay his players, then everyone else says, “I want the Rick Nash deal.” So, yes, I do see that.

It’s just that … at least in the case of the Vanek signing … we see it a bit more directly. It’s not like Regier said, “I’m offering 7-years/$50.” The GM who made that offer was Kevin Lowe. That’s what doesn’t sit well with me.

That’s just my opinion. Perhaps, I need to “get over it.” But, that’s how I feel about it. Imagine if Don Waddell had someone try to steal Kovalchuk in this fashion, when he was an RFA?

Stop that. Who just said, “I wouldn’ta minded! Waddell woulda matched. And least that way he woulda been signed and in camp! Not a ‘holdout.’” That’s just mean. DW also could have lost Kovy, if the offer were substantial enough. And we’ve seen where Thrashers draft picks between 1999-2003 got us.

By Brian

July 8, 2007 12:43 AM | Link to this

Hokie - I was going to go Fri afternoon but got tied up at work unexpectedly. However, there were really only 2-3 players that I actually wanted to see, and drills don’t always show what I want to see.

Rawhide - I think our d-men are set. Have fun in Fla…

By Tim

July 8, 2007 3:41 AM | Link to this

Found a nice article about the Rangers. Yes Rangers making big splash so for in the FA. But their netminder, Lundqvist is heading is filling arbitration. How much do you think he gonna get? Also, remind you guys that the Rangers have 9 mil left to fill out the roster. If Lundqvist win his cause, he may get a lot of money. Also remember that Shanahan, Avery and Hossa dont have contract sign yet.

By GaVaHokie

July 8, 2007 9:02 AM | Link to this

Tim… $9 million will not get Lundqvist, Shannahan, Avery and Hossa back… unless Shannahan is willing to take a pay cut to play with his buddy Gomez. He’ll hold his cards close to his chest for awhile, try and get top dollar, but I think he’ll eventually accept a low salary to stay.

By Pucks n Snot

July 8, 2007 11:23 AM | Link to this

The “undersized” defensman B. Thenet was referring to is Brian Rafalski, who was rated as one of the top 5 free agents available this offseason by just about everyone. See, in Detroit what we like to do is put defensman on the ice that can actually skate, handle the puck, pass accurately, and be consistently responsible in their own zone, while staying out of the box. Might be the reason this “undersized” defensman has his name etched twice on the Stanley Cup, who knows? He’s not as productive offensively as Schneider was, but he logs 26 minutes a night and plays mistake free hockey, not to mention he’s 5 years younger. And another memo to the supremely knowledgeable hockey fans in Gomerville: “undersized” defensmen, as you call them, are the future in the new NHL……but go ahead and keep putting your telephone poles like Coburn, Sutton & Valabik out there so that teams like us can skate past them effortlessly. sigh……it’s thinking like yours, Thenet, that makes the Thrashers….well, the Thrashers. And we may play in a terrible division, but it’s not our fault that Gary Bettman is the anti-Christ and has ruined the tradition of the game by putting us in the western conference away from our other original 6 rivals, all for the sake of having teams in places like Phoenix, Nashville & Atlanta where they are not even recognized by the local media. Thus, my plan for saving the NHL remains: FIRE Bettman! Mario Lemieux for commisioner! Contract teams from the west and the south! Detroit back to the eastern conference! Do it NOW and save this game!

By The Falconer

July 8, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

Ranallo10 wrote: Any idiot GM can turn 4 first round draft picks into impact players that can easily replace the lost player. For example, if Buffalo declined the offer sheet and let Vanek walk, they could’ve used two draft picks immediately to get players on the second tier (like a Dainius Zubrus, a Mike Comrie, etc). Two of those picks could grab them two twenty eight year old players who combined score more points than Vanek, AND ARE CHEAPER.

You can’t just say Zubrus + players x = Vanek because you are not getting the same productivity from one roster spot, you are consuming two roster spots to do that.

Let’s say you that last seaon Vanek was on your power play and produced a certain number of points. Well putting Zubrus + player X is not the same as Vanek because you have to bump two guys off of your power play unit. To really replace Vanek’s production on the power you need to find two players who can replace BOTH Vanek and the guy you bump off the unit which is a much harder task.

re: *Kovy getting an “A”. *I think there should be a rule that you can’t wear an “A” until you’re good enough defensively to be a penalty killer now and then. I’m sorry but I need to see more sacrifice and/or defensive responsiblity before I put an “A” on him.

GaVaHokie wrote: Did anyone go to Prospect Camp this weekend?.. I’d like to hear some updates. I have a report on Saturday on the blog: http://thrasherstalons.blogspot.com/

By David

July 8, 2007 1:05 PM | Link to this

Rafalski is a solid defenseman. Nothing more or less.

By Alex

July 8, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

Pucks n Snot

DETROIT SUCKS!!!!!!!!!

By ranallo10

July 8, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this

Falconer — I think you misunderstood the point of my argument.

Here’s a simplified version: With four first round picks acquired for losing a player like Vanek, you can easily replace him with one (or more) players of equal value via trade. It’s an option obviously, not an answer, and a player like Vanek is tough to replace. But you could take those picks to a team like Chicago, ask for Tuomo Ruutu, and have an offensive replacement that’s cheaper but relatively equally talented.

By Bob

July 8, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this

Regarding an A for Kovy. I think he deserves it, but the only opinion that counts is that of the coaches and GM. Don’t know how many of you are STHs but I have been since the beginning and see almost every game. Ilya sticks up for his teamates and plays every shift hard . When the game is on the line the intensity on ice can be seen. He is our BEST player. No disrespect to Hoss, because he is also a great talent and is better defensively. Those that say Ilya is not defensively responsible haven’t been watching the games. The effort defensively has been solid. Several instances have occurred where Ilya bailed us out by utilizing his speed to get back and break up a play, where we were otherwise hung out to dry. No player is perfect defensively and he is tons better than a few years ago. Also best passer on the club.

We are faster, deeper for next year. The key will be for our stars to play that way (ie Hossa, Kozzie, Kari not disappearing like in the playoffs) Kari needs to become an elite level NHL goaltender,not just be good.

Bobby Holik will have a good year, big body, wins faceoffs, can crash the net. Those who are critical of his contract just simply must not understand the role he has been given.

By Tim

July 8, 2007 8:00 PM | Link to this

Bob It’s Lehtonen contract year, hopefully we gonna see the real “Finnish Weasel” this season ;)

By dj

July 8, 2007 8:09 PM | Link to this

Bob, I think that is the first post you have ever made that I can completely agree with. I hate people question Kovy’s work ethic. He is still young and yes, immature…but just because he gets frustrated after not scoring doesn’t mean he is not giving 100%. He is a goal scorer therefore he gets frustrated when he can’t score…kinda like myself but in a different area of life. And, after I don’t “score” I left my head in frustration or bang my stick on the ice(ground) as well. I would love to see Kovy get an A and that would show what this organization thinks of him and could help us resign him 3 years from now. Also, Holik is probably overpaid. But, I tell people all the time that you paid Holik for all the games after the 82. He showed up in our playoffs. He was by far our best player and he cannot help the rest of the kids didn’t show up (except for Dupuis and oh, Kovy). Holik isn’t paid to score 100 points and 100 PIMS and blah blah blah…he wins faceoffs, scores occasionally, and shuts down the opposition. Which he did a pretty good job. ok, longest post of my life, peace.

By Bob

July 8, 2007 8:41 PM | Link to this

dj, sorry you got your hopes up, but that’s the Other Bob

I agree with your boy ranallo on this, Kovy does NOT deserve an A or a C. He has to earn it and he has not done that yet. It’s a no brainer who our best player is, and he’s not Russian.

I do agree with you about Holik though. He is a great shut down center and I’m glad we have him. I’m fearful though that they’re going to throw him on 2nd line duty with Kovy. That would be a waste of Holik’s shut down ability on the checking line.

By Tony C.

July 9, 2007 12:49 AM | Link to this

Slava-Matic gets the C in my world.

By Darren

July 9, 2007 1:33 AM | Link to this

ranallo, good call on the projected lineup. Have to admit I agree with you on it 100 percent.

By Fred

July 9, 2007 9:14 AM | Link to this

So is there a GRIT D man out there that we can even hope to get, i.e. UFA or in a trade?

By Buzilla Baby Blues

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

Holik or Slava, but I think Holik has the edge because I think he is much more vocal than Kozzzzzzzy.

By Brendan

July 9, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this

Fred, according to www.cbs.sportsline.com/nhl/agent tracker, former Thrasher Vitaly Vishnevski, known for hard hitting (grit) is an un-signed UFA defenseman.

Another name I was a little bit surprised to see unclaimed is UFA blueliner Patrice Brisebois. Though, he’s not known for “grit.”

Some aging Centers still unclaimed as former Thrasher and Capital, Peter Bondra, (might retire,) and Pierre Turgeon (Colorado). Also, if you recall the 2003 Stanley Cup Playoffs, you’ll recall this name, LW Jeff Friesen. He had three (3) GWG’s for the Devils in the Conference Finals with Ottawa that year. And he scored two in Game Seven of the Stanley Cup Finals with NJ over Anaheim that year. He is “unrestricted.” Though, he seems to be on the decline.

Lots of goaltenders out there, still unclaimed. Ed Belfour, Curtis Joseph, David Aebischer, Jussi Markkanen (2006 Cup Finals, 3-3, 2.17 GAA, one shutout), and Robert Esche (2004 Conference Final, starting goalie).

Some of those names are a bit surprising not to have been claimed yet.

By thrashfan

July 11, 2007 10:40 PM | Link to this

Brendan I think your last post on Slater’s arbitration is incorrect…I think it’s in the CBA that qualifiying offers are not permissible as evidence which would mean that the Thrashers could argue that Slater is only worth $650,000 and if the arbitrator buys their argument then Slater could in fact be paid less than his qualifying offer…..though i could be incorrect too

By Brendan

July 12, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this

Thrashfan, I hope I’m wrong and you’re right. I’d love for Atlanta to re-sign Slater for $650,000! That’s $340,000 in savings for the trade deadline! Woo hoo!!

But, I have the sneaking suspicion that … Don Waddell issss prepared to pay Slater $990,000. He just doesn’t want to pay MORE than that. And who could blame Don for feeling that way? Slater did underperform last season.