Thrashers

By Alison

August 27, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this

Craig, that would be the SouthEAST division banner, not the Southwest.

By d

August 27, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this

I guess thats an example of missing the editor Craig eluded to…

By Buzilla Baby Blues

August 27, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this

Not impressed with the Icegirls.

Mostly the same faces. I’ve already done most of them (in my mind.) I need new blood. These girls are too old now.

By Buzilla Baby Blues

August 27, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this

Brendan for Blog Master!

By Matt H

August 27, 2007 5:17 PM | Link to this

CC When do we get the skinny on all the All-Star Event happenings going on around town this year?

By Craig Custance

August 27, 2007 5:21 PM | Link to this

Alison - It says Southeast, I don’t know what you’re talking about (thanks for the heads up).

d - You are correct.

By Hockeyfan

August 27, 2007 5:32 PM | Link to this

Of course if there was an easier to find link to the Thrashers section on the front page…

By Barry

August 27, 2007 8:41 PM | Link to this

Any idea if the prospect games will be on radio or some form of online broadcast?

By robbie dee

August 27, 2007 9:13 PM | Link to this

wow, thanks for this list, cc!

By Brendan

August 27, 2007 9:52 PM | Link to this

What a great list of inductees this year for Le Temple de la renommEe du Hockey (Hockey Hall of Fame).

Craig, per your suggestion, I have added this blog entry to my list of “favorite places.” An excellent list. Thank you, sir.

David Vecsey, heartfelt “congratulations on your ascension to the NY Times, Grand and Grey Lady that she is.” (Can a liberal philosophy be far behind?) Write us when you find a loft. Maybe he’ll find someplace right by the Garden? (I’m told that true New Yorkers don’t call it “MSG,” then call it “The Gahden.” Whatever.)

By Craig Custance

August 27, 2007 11:01 PM | Link to this

Barry - That I don’t know. I’d be surprised, but I’ll find out.

By dj

August 27, 2007 11:45 PM | Link to this

I vote for a Ranallo/Bob blog to the death to replace Ice Man.

By russian

August 28, 2007 8:00 AM | Link to this

to CC It is Great Calendar. Thanks. September is almost here. I really want to see our first game against Blues. I could not wait anymore. My son is playing Junior hockey in Tulsa. They are started at 9/14/2007 and I am already fill that this year will be very interesting. About second Blog, I very like Brendan speech. I am always injoining to read his comments.

By Dave

August 28, 2007 8:06 AM | Link to this

I also would like to see Brendan do the blog. He won’t take weeks off at a time in the middle of an exciting 1st place season (I don’t want to hear excuses about equipment not working or personal issues). He also actually knows about hockey, not like the Iceman who actually wrote, can you believe this, that the Thrashers deserved to win some playoff games last year. Incredible what the Atlanta fans had to put up with!

By Midfield

August 28, 2007 8:07 AM | Link to this

Give the blog for Russian to moderate. This would be AJC’s most original column ever.

By five_hole

August 28, 2007 8:25 AM | Link to this

You mean … The Iceman Goeth?

It hardly seems fair. I’m sure that in a Yankee city of 8 million people, they could have found someone that knew how to write hockey. Do you know how hard it’s going to be to replace him here?

By Bob

August 28, 2007 9:37 AM | Link to this

Yep, Brendan by far is the best and most middle of the road blogger. Let it be done.

On today’s poll you asked which is the most anticipated game this year, Rangers, any Tampa game or the All-Star game. I think you left off the most anticipated game, and that’s the first game of the year when they’re going to raise the SE Banner. That’s the club’s first banner and although I admit it’s pretty meaningless in the big picture and especially after getting swept, it’s still the first banner and that’s a pretty big deal, I think.

By Craig Custance

August 28, 2007 10:08 AM | Link to this

five_hole: The Iceman Goeth, that’s pretty good.

I know Brendan would do a good job, but man, I’d hate to lose his comments on my blog.

By Russ

August 28, 2007 10:19 AM | Link to this

If I were Brendan I’m not sure I’d want to do the fan blog. It seems to kind of be like being the Thrashers captain - whoever gets the designation never lasts more than one year.

By Bob

August 28, 2007 10:30 AM | Link to this

It seems to kind of be like being the Thrashers captain - whoever gets the designation never lasts more than one year

Good point.

In that case, I nominate Pucks and Snots.

By Matt H

August 28, 2007 10:48 AM | Link to this

Do we really need a fan blog?

Don’t we kinda cover all the bases here?

I mean, if Craig keeps posting as consistently as he has been doing. Maybe wait til regular season starts, and see if it’s even wanted/warranted.

But yes, I’ll also throw my hat “onto the rink”, as it were, and say Brendan would do an excellent job.

By ranallo10

August 28, 2007 12:05 PM | Link to this

In case anybody cared about seeing the Atlanta roster for the prospects tournament, here’s the link.

I’m interested to see the work of most of these players, but especially: Pavelec, Little, Enstrom, Denny, Holzapfel, and for some odd reason Stoesz (224PIM in 69 games…wow).

By War Eagle

August 28, 2007 12:36 PM | Link to this

the main thing is-will the Thrash put people in front of the net while they are in the offensive zone? They keep wanting to play dump and chase circle games. And that is why the Rangers KILLED them in 4. you have to put someone in front of the net to create havoc. And who the heck schedules the Rangers for Thursday nights? Get them for Saturday night or Sunday Afternoons. The heck with the Hawks-who the heck watches those thugs anyway. It’s just a way to keep those drug dealing thugs off the unemployment line.

By Craig Custance

August 28, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

The the prospects games won’t be televised or on the radio. I’ll be blogging plenty from Traverse City, so I’ll do my best to give you the latest updates on who looks good.

By GaVaHokie

August 28, 2007 2:24 PM | Link to this

Eklund has clarified his Boston/Thrashers trade rumor as being Marian Hossa… Boston is offering two top line players.

Of course, all hearsay, but fun to speculate.

By Brendan

August 28, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

I think it’s a great testament to the quality of Craig’s blog that he’d have so many capable bloggers to go fill the void on the fan side.

Rest assured, I wouldn’t ever stop posting at Craig’s blog. Unless he asked me not to blog here anymore. (Uhh, nice try, but only Craig’s request would be honored, in that regard.) If I were to be the fan blogger, I am an advocate of “free speech.” That is, “diversity of opinions.”

My agenda has never been hidden. Nor have I ever denied having one. It’s simply this: (1) to promote awareness of the Atlanta Thrashers, in particular, and (2) hockey, in general. I challenge you to find a post (out of 3,000 or so) where I discourage others from contributing, tell them that they don’t have a right to their opinions, or engage in name-calling. I think a Thrashers blog site for fans is a place where even the most rudimentary of questions can and ought to be asked. It’s there to promote the game and awareness of it.

It’s a great sport and I hope it catches on even more than it has in the past few seasons. The interest level is here. It sold out 38 of its first 41 home games in its inaugural season. Whoever the fan blogger turns out to be, I hope they adopt my agenda.

By Buzilla Baby Blues

August 28, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this

I never name call either…

By ranallo10

August 28, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this

Hokie, in response to your posts here and on the other board — I don’t think Murray for Havelid is a good enough swap.

Boston needs to lose salary, however, Atlanta does not need to gain salary. The team doesn’t have space to realistically do so, as they’re seemingly at their spending limit now (~$42M). Additionally, the defensive depth is not there to replace Havelid from within the Atlanta system. Atlanta gains a top six winger and a hefty chunk of change, but loses a top three defenseman who is in a good contract situation.

Re Hossa: Eklund has been latching onto Hossa as he does every other “big name” throughout this offseason. He’s grabbed onto Marleau despite the player, his agent, and team officials denying the possibility of his being shopped. I highly doubt Hossa will be given up, but I don’t discount the fact that his name could have come up in a conversation between the two teams.

How I see it, Boston wont give up Bergeron, Kessel isn’t worth the trade alone nor a package with a top winger (especially since scouts say he is a better winger than a center), and Savard is locked up too long for Atlanta to want him back. Getting two players for Hossa has to be a big deal, and I’d think a high profile defender and center would be involved.

I just don’t see the realism in that trade rumor, so therefore I don’t think anything will happen. But you’re right, it doesn’t hurt (and can be fun) to speculate.

By Matt H

August 28, 2007 5:19 PM | Link to this

Boston’s lineup at center is, if it continues to fulfill its draft potential, sickening. I would not be surprised if they were looking to trade some of their potential for Marian Hossa. Maybe Chara’s talking Hoss up?

Also, anyone else a little torqued off that they’re moving the goal judges? I am.

Ida know. Old-time hockey, Eddie Shore and all that.

By Oh...Canada

August 28, 2007 5:50 PM | Link to this

I vote to keep the goal judge behind the net as part of the grand old game.

However, 8 seats (4 at each end) would total an additional $1,500 / game. Maybe more seats are displaced?

Now a larger ice sheet would also give you more front row seats…why not go that way?

By Chris

August 28, 2007 9:33 PM | Link to this

Any trade with Boston would have to include Patrice Bergeron, a player that is adored in Boston. He is a very similar player Hossa, but six years younger. No way Boston gives up Bergeron and another player(Strum, Kessel?) for another forward when their depth at defense is so thin. The Thrashers have to sign Hossa to a long-term extension before the season starts. Once the season starts you can’t negotiate with him until January, right? At that point, Hossa would probably already be convinced that it is time to test the market. Signing Hossa right now is asa big as signing any of this years top free agents. Look at the list, is there anyone near the caliber of Hossa who was free agent this year? By taking him off the market for next year you are signaling to every player on this team that the Thrashers as an organization are committed to winning now and in the future.

By todd

August 29, 2007 1:45 AM | Link to this

I am psyched for hockey season !!!! however, I am very disappointed in the new reebok jerseys. all the ones I have seen are very plain and look like practice jerseys. anyone else agreee?

By Sara

August 29, 2007 6:23 AM | Link to this

The Boston trade just doesn’t make any sense to me, from either standpoint. Why would they trade two good players for one good player? That’s the only way it makes sense for us to move Hoss because not only would we have to replace him, but there would have to be extra incentive as well.

I’m also not sure I like this moving the goal judges thing. I’ve seen goal judges light the lamp when even the ref doesn’t see the puck in the net - it’s an extra set of eyes in prime position. That in and of itself is a good thing, not too mention I don’t like leaving any more responsibility with the refs than I have to - too many of them are awful.

By Bob

August 29, 2007 8:53 AM | Link to this

I am assuming that the goal judges will be upstairs in the box watching the plays on high definition, from a better angle than their seat behind the goal that may be blocked by the pipes and players. Won’t they still have the light there? I assume they’ll just be hitting the button from upstairs, instead of from behind the net.

By Hip Czech

August 29, 2007 9:25 AM | Link to this

I’ll chime in and nominate Brendan to be the fan blogger,if we need one. Although someone my have to edit the length of his blog entries ;-)

Totally useless point coming up…getting ready for our CBS fantasy league draft and I noticed that 8 out of the top 17 players in CBS’ rankings are from the Southeast division.

For those who like to slam the Southleast for lack of quality, it’s hard to deny there are some pretty dynamic players in this division.

One other player to watch in the prospect tourney is Grant Lewis. It will be interesting to see how he compares to Enstrom.

By ranallo10

August 29, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this

As a purely fan perspective, it’s nice to have less obstruction between me and the ice.

From a purists perspective, I think it’s a chance for more goals to be missed due to inaccurate angles or other technical malfunctions. Less likely obviously, but it takes away from the point of having a second person staring at the goal line.

From a progressive perspective, I think it’s about time the NHL allowed the goal judges to use technology to help improve their job. It’s tough to ask a human being to sit there and see things perfectly, with obstructed views and the possibility of blinking, so it’s only fair they finally get the chance to call the game while looking at a high def pic.

Doesn’t Anaheim have their judges using a camera mounted over the ice pointing directly at the goal line?? I thought I saw something about that during the playoffs.

By russian

August 29, 2007 12:46 PM | Link to this

TV schedule is UP. We got 65 games on TV (public). I like that!!!

By Matt H

August 29, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this

todd I’m not a big fan of the new jersey style either (worn or played… anyone?), though some teams were wise enough to keep their new ones similar to their old ones (Boston, Detroit). I do actually really like the new Caps jerseys. Guess I’m more of a traditionalist.

If I were to use one word to describe the new jerseys- the fit, the style, the colors- I believe that word would have to be “Eurotrash”.

At least there aren’t “adverts” for BP “petrol” and Nutella all over them. That’s when I’ll get really upset.

By GaVaHokie

August 29, 2007 1:16 PM | Link to this

Craig… I’ve been hearing a lot lately that teams are going to allow the remaining UFA’s to come into camp on a tryout basis… one example is Bryan Berard with the NY Islanders.

Do the Thrashers have any invitations to any of the UFAs?

If you could look into it, that would be great.

By Tony C.

August 29, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this

I think the moving of the judges is crap. unless the current seat is obstructed by some piece of equipment or structural feature. Sara makes a great point-how often have we seen the red light come on while everyone on the ice is still loooking for the puck?

Granted, I can also think of times when the red light came on, and the puck was in the keeper’s glove-or in his shorts etc. or those wing-things they had back in the late ‘90’s kind of like KISS costumes.

My point being HDTV or not, the camera can be fooled-or knocked out (goal cam vs. slapshot - slapshot wins)! I liked the fact that there was a guy on either end of the ice whose only job was to keep his eye on the puck if it went in the goal-hit that switch. He has no say in any other aspect of the game…just where/when the puck crosses that red line.

As far as the Boston-ATL trades again, who for who makes sense? I don’t see anything that makes sense. They got Fernandez to shore up the hole in goal-and with the money invested in Chara leaves not so much for the rest of their blueline…maybe they’d take Klee back???

GO BLUE!!!

P.S. What’s the word on LaVallee??? (you can tell I’m high on this kid)

By ranallo10

August 29, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this

Tony C. — everything I’ve read points LaVallee towards being a productive third line winger in the NHL. I wouldn’t mind seeing him play sparingly this season, and start getting a full time shot next. He hits well, battles for the puck, and isn’t afraid to get physical…something the Thrashers can always use (in my opinion). I’m not sure if that’s what you were looking for though.

Hokie — Good question, I’m curious about the same thing. It’s very disappointing for me to watch Berard get cast off as a slouch by all these teams, when the kid has always played well when healthy. With one good eye he plays better than most of the Atlanta defenders, which is the reason I consistently hope we might see his name pop up in a press release here in Atlanta. I’d like to see him do well, and I hope his tryout in New York lands him a full time gig for a different club altogether. I’m curious if he’s got the same problem with teams for his steroid suspension (not in the NHL) that Sean Hill got.

Craig — any knowledge on your part of Waddell having interest in any of the remaining UFAs (big named or small)?

By Tony C.

August 29, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this

ranallo- Yes. That’s exactly what I am hoping for (wouldn’t be hurt if he discovers some more scoring touch of course)…I too feel that Le Thrash could use a lot more physicality-this kid LaVallee seems to (A) be willing, and (B) capable of delivering what I see as a sorely needed commodity on our squad.

My biggest question about our squad (and I imagine one of DW’s as well) - what’s the deal with Rucchin? I realize his cap hit isn’t exhorbitant, but it’s waaaaaaaaaay too much to be paying for a guy who isn’t playing. I’d like to think he can come back rejuvenated and be the responsible, somewhat playmaking center he was 10 years ago - but I’m also a guy who believes that most people understand that the left lane on the interstate is for fast traffic…

One guy we haven’t heard much about this summer is The Moose - CC anything noteworthy to report?

Also, I’ve been curious as to how Slater performed during camp…any info of note is always welcome

GO BLUE !!!

By GaVaHokie

August 29, 2007 4:19 PM | Link to this

Berard’s biggest problem is on defense, which unfortunately is his POSITION!!! His eyesight hasn’t affected his ability to move the puck and create scoring chances, but it does hamper his peripheral vision on defense, which is why he’s been -29 and -24 the last few years.

Also, Hossa was the one that took his eye out, so that might be uncomfortable.

By GaVaHokie

August 29, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this

I’d like to see Jeff O’Neill come in for a work-out, but he doesn’t strike me as a guy who’s willing to do that.

By ranallo10

August 29, 2007 5:31 PM | Link to this

Hokie — YouTube has a good clip of the incident, and it’s quite clear it was completely accidental. Though, I bet you’re right and it’d cause some discomfort for both players.

Who cares though, I bet Berard would take the discomfort if it meant he had an NHL contract (which he’s basically begging for now with his NY Islanders tryout).

His -29 and -24 came on bad teams (Columbus and Chicago), and can also be blamed on his injured back (which he missed most of last season due to). On good teams like the Rangers and the Bruins, he was a -1 and -4 immediately following his injury.

It’s a known problem that he can’t see AS WELL as someone with two good eyes defensively, but he’s not exactly a defensive defenseman in the first place. He doesn’t play the body well, he is overly aggressive and is a risk taker. It’s like thinking that DeVries’ slow feet is the only thing that kept him from being a good offensive defenseman…he wasn’t one to begin with, so it’s not impeding him too much. However, Berard’s offensive abilities is one of the biggest problems this Thrashers team currently has, and his abilities to pass and finish would be quite useful on the powerplay. I’d wager he’d be no more of a risk on defense than Sutton, Modry, or even McCarthy, but has a higher offensive potential than at least two of those (McCarthy is an unknown quantity for this team still, based on how Hartley uses him).

I like the kid, I think he’s got a skill that this team needs, but I really just would like to see him do well on any team outside of the Southeast Division. Preferably in the Western Conference.

I agree, O’Neill would be a good work-out type player (something to prove to all teams unwilling to sign him thus far), and I’d be open to watching him skate with the team. But you’re probably right, he doesn’t seem like that type of guy.

By Craig Custance

August 29, 2007 6:37 PM | Link to this

As far as UFA invites, don’t expect any recognizable names at Thrashers camp. If one of the free agents in Traverse City has a big tournament, he might get an invite to camp, but I wouldn’t expect anything beyond that.

By Brendan

August 29, 2007 10:29 PM | Link to this

Matt H., I’m not a fan of these new jersey styles, either. I guess the league calls this a “marketing strategy.” Perhaps they’re underlying thinking is “Fans already have 2-3 jerseys, their collection will be incomplete without these.”

Hmmn, interesting theory. I still don’t own the powder blue Thrashers jersey, with Atlanta down the sleeve. I never much cared for it. I still like the “retro” jersey with the “Ultimate Warrior” looking logo. Which I actually call a “stylized T.” It’s a very clever logo that serves as (1) a sideways bird in flight, (2) a skull of a bird, and (3) a “T,” for Thrashers. It all depends on how you look at it. Like that picture that is either two faces or a vase, depending on how your interpretation.

Shifting gears, “Do you think Anaheim’s Selanne or Niedermayer will return next season?” Second question. “Do you think it’s a bit unfair to the Ducks GM to make him wait this long for a decision?”

If the Ducks cap were filled, and Selanne and/or Niedermayer still wanted to play in the NHL, they would both receive plenty of interest around the league, in spite of their age and hefty salaries. They are unrestricted free agents, able to be signed by anyone willing to absorb the cap hit.

If the improbable happened, and Selanne and/or Niedermayer decided to play for a team other than the Ducks next year, would you want them here in Atlanta? I’m just curious.

By Jason

August 29, 2007 10:52 PM | Link to this

Could you enlighten me as to why, after all these years, the Thrash still don’t televise ALL of their games…I mean 61 games…that’s worse than smaller markets…not to mention that they pretty much NEVER televise away games in Canada, love to know why.

By Jameson

August 30, 2007 12:55 AM | Link to this

I wouldn’t mind seeing either Selanne or Niedermayer here for a one year deal, but I doubt we could find room for either of them. I suppose if we dropped both Zhitnik and Havelid we could afford Niedermayer, but then we’d be hurting pretty bad for the next year or two.

By Sara

August 30, 2007 7:40 AM | Link to this

Slight correction Brendan - Neidermeyer is still under contract to the Ducks. That’s one reason why his decision is a major one - if he retires, it will free up I think $6.5 mill in cap space for Anaheim.

By Sara

August 30, 2007 7:46 AM | Link to this

Jason while I am not 100% positive, I think the biggest issue with the number of televised games has to do with the network those games are primarily televised on. FSN (formerly Turner South) also broadcasts Hawks games as well. Though I haven’t yet looked at the broadcast schedule for this season, typically the Thrash are heavily covered in the early part of their season and then coverage tails off during the latter portion when the Hawks are more active. Those are contractual obligations - I’m sure they’ve guaranteed a certain number of broadcasts for both teams. And unless the Thrashers can dominate the ratings, it will remain that way.

As I haven’t looked yet, is PAX/I network (or whatever) covering any games this year? I know they picked up some last season.

By Craig Custance

August 30, 2007 10:20 AM | Link to this

Thrashers will be announcing the signing of defenseman Joel Kwiatkowski later today. I’ll have details of his contract shortly.

By Craig Custance

August 30, 2007 10:47 AM | Link to this

Kwiatkowsk: 1 year, 2-way deal. Worth $600K.

By Shoot it

August 30, 2007 11:10 AM | Link to this

Someone should tell Waddell and the owners that they are not in the AHL. They are supposed to be fielding an NHL team.

By Thrasher316J11

August 30, 2007 11:42 AM | Link to this

Why are we stacking up the AHL with depth if we have all these defensemen supposedly ready to fill the NHL in a “youth movement”?

By ranallo10

August 30, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

Let’s see…he’s got plenty of NHL experience, is only 30, and is on the cheap with a two-way contract.

Sounds like a replacement for Hnidy.

My best guess is an experienced injury replacement that will help push the young defenders to make the team.

In reality he’ll probably lead the team in healthy scratch minutes, giving the young ones ice time in Chicago.

By Brendan

August 30, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this

Craig, thanks for the update on Kwiatkowski.

Sara, I stand corrected. But I reiterate my question, “Is it fair to Brian Burke to make him wait this long for his (retirement) decision?” I hear ya. Shouldn’t we be asking the same thing about Rucchin? But, I don’t think Rucchin has ever said he’s contemplating retirement. I welcome corrections, if I’m wrong about that. Whereas, Niedermayer has talked about retirement.

Don Waddell must play it as follows: If the doctors clear Rucchin to play, and Rucchin doesn’t file retirement papers, then he’s under contract for the coming season. He should report to camp, if healthy. At that point, I think Waddell could consider buying out the remainder of his contract.

By Matt H

August 30, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

The Pro’s and Con’s that TSN lays out make Kwiatkowski sound exactly like everyone’s favorite ex-Thrasher, Andy Sutton, but at a max of $600k.

Brendan-I’ve got the Ullllllltimate Warrior jersey too, and it’s by far my favorite. The whole “Blueland” thing seems to be workin’, so why rock the boat? But I’d love to see these as Road jerseys, or at least worn occasionally as Third’s.

Are we still sure that the league’s switching back to Home white’s this season?

As for Niedermayer or Selanne, I don’t know why on earth either of them would want to come to Atlanta, but obviously it’d be great to have either one. I bet we see one or two of these big unsigned/undecided guys (like Forsberg, Selanne, etc.) hop in mid-season somewhere.

By Bob

August 30, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

Why are we stacking up the AHL with depth if we have all these defensemen supposedly ready to fill the NHL in a “youth movement”?

Because we don’t have all these defenseman, or forwards, ready to fill the NHL. That’s why we sign all of those AHL tweeners. But hey, Waddell’s doing just a bang up job, eh?

Same ol’, same ol’, nothing meaningful will change here until he’s gone.

I feel bad for these guys that buy into the nonsense that comes out of Waddell’s mouth about all the young talent that’s just waiting in the minors, while out of the other side of his mouth he’s signing these journeyman tweeners. I never bought this Enstrom midget making it here anyway, Popovic is the only one I can see making the team, but Hartley won’t play him anyway, so what’s the point?

By GaVaHokie

August 30, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this

Again, Waddell’s job is to create as much competition at camp as possible… it’s Popovic’s job to play well enough to make the roster.

If the youngsters come into camp out of shape and tripping on thier own skates, well, there’s plenty of other options available.

By russian

August 30, 2007 1:20 PM | Link to this

After we were Kwiatkowski, I think Blue line is completed. Zhitnik - Havelid Ex - Klee Kwiatkowski - McCarty Bob will not take a risk to play Young players on the team. I think this will be pairs.

By GaVaHokie

August 30, 2007 1:31 PM | Link to this

Russian, I’m not sure I agree… I think Pilar has a better shot than Kwiatkowski.

By Bob

August 30, 2007 1:32 PM | Link to this

yep, the youth movement was bogus as soon as he kept Bob “I like me vets” Hartley

By Brendan

August 30, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

I always cringe when a GM signs FREE AGENTS to play in the minor league. Not that there’s any law against it, mind you. But it just reinforces the notion that drafting has been ineffective.

To be fair, at least with the Thrashers organization, a lot of the draftees just don’t get a fair opportunity to prove themselves at the NHL level. Maybe, just maybe, some of them could make it. But they’ll have to do it as “call ups” who then displace a starter from the roster. That’s how Exelby got here. Plus a couple of rather memorable fights.

By GaVaHokie

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

Well, we lost a lot of depth with Hnidy, DeVries and Sutton leaving. There was sure to be signings, I wouldn’t worry just yet.

I still think the more competition the better… if Pilar can come in and steal a spot away from Popovic? We’re better for it.

By Tony C.

August 30, 2007 5:28 PM | Link to this

I like the K-towski move…it shows me that DW&Bob are serious about having someone move up from Chi.

GO BLUE !!!

By Jeff

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

Kiwi better be Chicago bound, he hardly played for Florida or Pittsburgh for a reason. Plus when he played more than 5-8 mins it was usually at forward, not at defense.

PS: Kiwi got most if not all of his goals while playing forward last season.

By Simple_Man

August 30, 2007 9:47 PM | Link to this

I disagree GaVaHokie, we won’t be better off in Pilar replaces Popovic’s spot. We’ll be better off if both make the team rather than Pilar over Popovic.

Anyway, Mark Popovic will eventually be a top four d-man in the NHL. Mark my words on that if y’all so desire, my track record in this area is pretty good. But my fear is it will happen after he leaves the Thrashers organization.

By Thrasher316J11

August 31, 2007 8:25 AM | Link to this

I want the most competitive team on the ice so I cant be mad with the signing at face. I guess to me it comes with the sacrafice of developing Popovic. I still think Pilar takes the last spot on the blueline but not I see Kiwi as the alternate not Popovic. Which place Popovic back in the AHL again and that takes away from his value next season and each season to come. At some point Bob has to learn to develope a player.

By Bob

August 31, 2007 9:06 AM | Link to this

Anyway, Mark Popovic will eventually be a top four d-man in the NHL. Mark my words on that if y’all so desire, my track record in this area is pretty good

I liked what I saw out of Popovic, he seemed very smooth with the puck, something that we need. The problem is that Hartley won’t play him, so Waddell goes and signs these tweener vets. Goofy way to run a club that has a “youth movement” going on. lol.

By Buzilla Baby Blues

August 31, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

I am glad to read that the “Ultimate Warrior” term for the TRUE jersey has taken hold. Some people refer to it as the Batman logo…

My name

Buzilla Baby Blue started because I hated when they introduced the new baby blue jerseys. Ice Blue is what they like to call it. It has grown on me a bit. I do have one, but I won it for the fan video contest (autographed by Rat, Kovy, Hossa, and Lehts)

I just don’t think that the jerseys colors should be dictated by the color of the corporate sponser of the building we play in (Phillips).

Anyone notice that the Hawks new jerseys are now a dark blue? A few seasons of that and the baby blue will find its way there too.

But nobody would notice anyway cause the Hawks suck.

GAVAHOKIE…you sign up yet?

By Bob

August 31, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this

Bob, why do you have to always be so negative? You give the name Bob a “bad name”. Give it a rest.

By ranallo10

August 31, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

Marleau signs a two year contract extension with San Jose.

By Tony C.

August 31, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

Shocker on the Marleau deal. He’s too good to let walk. So now we know a major source of Eklund’s “knowledgeable source” material…agents! Who are known for being truthful and forthright at all times right?

I too have liked what I have seen out of Popovic…Then again, I saw some potential in Coburn…I hope the hiBob was under orders “playoffs or else” last season perhaps he will have a little less pressure and a little more willingness to play the kids…

paint me the optimist

GO BLUE !!!

By GaVaHokie

August 31, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

Buzz… for what? Did you send out your Fantasy Hockey invite already? Must have been snatched by my Spam filter.

By Midfield

August 31, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this

Doesn’t Popovic have ‘NHL only’ contract this year?

By Buzilla Baby Blues

August 31, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this

Yeah it was for the hockey. I am not sure if I have another address other than your work one. Email me later at my yahoo address and I will send you the link again.

For the rest of you having to read this Yahoo! Fantasy ranks 2 Thrashers in the top 10

Kovalchuk 6 Hossa 7

fyi

By R. Stroz

August 31, 2007 7:11 PM | Link to this

After looking at the Thrashers roster players’ numbers on the Thrashers website, I have a pretty good idea of which players should “make the team.”

By thrashers19

September 1, 2007 5:50 AM | Link to this

I am looking forward to the atart of this season as much as the next person but I wonder about the moves made during the summer. Is DW stocking the Thrashers or the Wolves? Who is determining the signings, DW, BH or the owners? The needs were id before the UFA market and DW proceeded to sign “B” market players and let some of last year’s contributers leave (SIM not Sutton). I wonder where is the new exciting team as promised by Levison, wiil be coming from, or am I missing the forest for the trees? Perhaps I should give the benefit of the doubt to DW and the owners and view the on ice product before passing judgement. I still wonder about the youth movement we have been hearing about for the past couple of years. Won’t it occur because of BH or the inability to draft by DW? Only time will tell. If the team struggles early will it be time to see which coach is available and turn the reigns over to a new philosphy, BH showed he can be outcoached, just look at the games against the Rangers. The team still has considerable cap space, isn’t about time to possibilly seek a big trade to shore up the loose ends? What about the rumored Boston deal? Can we wait and see about Hossa or end up with another rent a player for virtually nothing in return? I still am and will always be a Thrasher just some thoughts outloud. I realize this post sounds negative but we tasted the playoffs and a division championship, last year, and wish to repeat and go furhter this year. It appears the other teams in our division have improved but we have stayed the same and perhaps taken a step back. Here’s to the 2007 -08 season and hopefully I am wrong about the organization. Let’s go Thrashers!

By Brendan

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

Thrashers19, I think your comments to resonate with many fellow Thrasher fans out there. A big question mark, to me, is Todd White. He’s a guy who will be around for four (4) seasons, barring a trade. That’s a substantial commitment by Waddell. But if it works out, great! Waddell didn’t especially overpay for White. So if he has to trade him, he’s not “cost prohibitive,” like Holik ($4.25 million, one year left on contract). White isn’t getting any younger, however. He’ll be HOW OLD when his contract expires? Right.

Thrasher fans remember Marc Savard and still opine, “We haven’t found the solution to that loss.” Well, perhaps offensively, we haven’t. But we’re better defensively without him, not to mention in the waning moments of games, where Marc is easily goaded into “emotional” penalties.

But I digress. What I actually wanted to say in this post was this: Changes will be made if this team falters in October/November. Hartley will break Waddell’s fall. Perhaps Hartley is the biggest impediment? Our special teams are his creation. He’s got to be “accountable” for that. Also, Hartley sets the roster and the line combinations. He decides who plays and who sits, and how much they do that.

Maybe everything will be fine. But if it isn’t, I suspect Waddell will make a move sooner, rather than later with Hartley. At that point, let’s see where a fresh benchboss leads us. And, as always, the team out of training camp won’t be the team that heads into the playoffs, should that materialize. Some of these (Chicago) Wolves could be trade deadline casualties (Pilar, Oystrick, Enstrom, Haydar, Krog, Kwiatkowski). Unfortunately, so could a guy like McCarthy, who I think Atlanta should hold on to in the coming years. Also, look how many one-year deal type players are on the roster that could be moved at the deadline.

You never know. Larsen, Bolton, McCarthy, Dupuis, even Johan Hedberg, who is in his contract year. If moving these players for BETTER players can be done, I suspect that’s what Waddell will do. It’s his job, after all. But any notion of Hossa leaving is probably garbage. If Hossa leaves before the end of the season, it’s because the Thrashers “tanked,” and now seek to secure draft picks from the most desperate team. Probably with all sorts of “liens” over him, like “it’ll cost you ANOTHER 1st round pick if you re-sign Hossa,” a la Keith Tkachuk and St. Louis.

Kovalchuk, despite what he could fetch, will never be traded, in my opinion. If/When Kovalchuk leaves the Thrashers organization, it will be because he chose not to re-sign here. And the earliest that can occur is July 1, 2010. Ohhhh alllriiiight. I have no idea who the ownership might be, or who will the GM, come July, 2010. Whoever that is might “opt” not to pay Kovalchuk his “market value,” thereby causing him to be signed by another team. Happy now?

By Midfield

September 1, 2007 10:03 PM | Link to this

I am happy as a little girl

By roh

September 2, 2007 11:14 AM | Link to this

I’d like to see “Dave” do the blog since he is so opinionated about how pathetic Iceman was. I’ll expect a pre and post blog for every game, Dave.

In less obnoxious and whiny news, bring on October 5th!!!!

By Brendan

September 2, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

Today, I pulled out the “Dan Snyder tribute” tape, with higlights from the Columbus Bluejackets home opener from 2003. It was wild to see names like Piros, Cowan, Kaberle, Tjarnqvist and Nurminen wearing the Thrashers “Ultimate Warrior” jerseys. Chris Tamer scored the game winner, late in the 3rd period, 2-1. The Thrashers donated the puck to the Snyder family. It was also sad to see how his death impacted the Elmira, Ontario community. And, above all, it’s a stirring reminder about the kind of people Graham and LuAnn Snyder really are. Watching Don Waddell say that burying one of his players was the hardest thing he’d ever done as General Manager, is still memorable, even now. Of course, back then, all the talk was “Can Heatley return, healthwise, and will his legal trouble permit that?” Heatley did return and played pretty well, too.

The Thrashers have come a long ways since then. They’re looking at a tough schedule, come October, with all those road games. But if they come out of it in good shape, they’ll see a more favorable schedule, in terms of home games. I’m ready for the preseason to start, already. I want to get a glimpse of the new Thrashers.

I know, all the talk in town is football and Michael Vick. Be honest here. Hockey biases aside, which season are you more optimistic about, the Falcons or the Thrashers?

By Tony C.

September 4, 2007 9:32 AM | Link to this

C’mon Brendan that’s a no-brainer: Thrashers should have the better season.

Falcons seem to be in total disarray and while the Thrasher’s ownership is not in and ideal state-I think that the players know that they are measured as a team whereas the Falcons have been measured in a “Mike’s rules-then everybody else’s rules” kind of way (it may not have been like that, but I always got that impression-even before 2K7).

Let’s not even try and compare hyundais with Lincolns

GO BLUE !!!

By Tony C.

September 4, 2007 9:50 AM | Link to this

should read “…in total…”

By Brendan

September 4, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

Tony C., that’s precisely the understood response I was looking for. Even if you’re a “die hard” football fan and certified “Falcon Fanatic,” the Thrashers will be the more successful of the two teams this year. The Sporting News NFL Preview has the Falcons projected record at 3-13. I’d say they have some shot at 5-11. But I digress.

Mark Bell just got indefinitely suspended, without pay, by the NHL for his drunked “hit and run” incident. San Jose is still in good shape for this upcoming season, though. Any takers on a Sharks Cup win this year?

By Brendan

September 4, 2007 2:25 PM | Link to this

Make that “drunken” hit and run incident. Mea culpa.

By Adam

September 4, 2007 2:40 PM | Link to this

Brendan San Jose was in good shape as they had traded Bell to Toronto. But as far as SJ winning the Cup, NO WAY after signing Jeremy Roenick to a 1yr contract.

By Brendan

September 5, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this

Adam, how much can Roenick really “derail” the Sharks? If he stinks it up, they’ll bench him or demote him to the minors. And he’ll retire. Of course, he may just opt to retire of his own volition, come December. As painful as it may be for him, if his body can’t “take it” anymore, then it can’t. He was set to “retire” this off season when news of this signing occurred.

By ranallo10

September 5, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this

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