Thrashers

By Boulton's Bruisers

October 3, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this

Think Sterling will have the biggest impact; however I did like what I saw with Little centering Hossa/Slava. I also think its good that the Thrash have their long Western conference road trip early in the season. It’s nice to be able to get that over with early on in the season, as opposed to late in the season. Can’t wait till Friday—wanna see the Kovalchuk/Ovechkin showdown.

By GaVaHokie

October 3, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this

1) Tobias Enstrom - his intelligence, his puck moving, and passing skills. He’ll have a ton of assists on the Power Play.

2) Brett Sterling - goals in front of the net picking up mishandled pucks from Kovy slapshots.

3) Mark Popovic - for Craig’s reasons above.

4) Brian Little - last but not least. I think he’ll be a great “energy guy” like Slater.

By GaVaHokie

October 3, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this

Boulton… By “long” Western Conference road trip, do you mean Nashville and Chicago? :)

By Rawhide

October 3, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

Sterling probably,…..but I would like to see Enstrom have a big impact because of what it would do for our defense.

I caught some of Holik’s segment this morning on the way in. I sure hope they have him on more because he is great. XLB would be super on 99X,….he is a natural with that crowd.

IS IT TIME TO DROP THE PUCK YET???

COME ON ALREADY!!! LET’S GET THIS THING GOING!!

By ConyersDawg

October 3, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

The new NHL is all about penalty killing. That’s why Tobias is my pick for big impact! But Sterling and and Little you just have to flip the coin, they are going to be fun to watch.

Go Thrashers!

By Hockeyfan

October 3, 2007 1:58 PM | Link to this

I think Boulton should be given a regular spot on 96rock or one of the country stations to reach out to some potential new fans.

Ex on 99x sounds like a good idea but what are their ratings in the am?

By Russ

October 3, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this

I’d probably go with Sterling first and Popovic a close second. I expect Sterling to hit the mid-20’s in goals this season, which would be fantastic for a rookie. Popovic’s impact depends on how much he can gain Hartley’s trust. If he could ever work his way into the top four d-men, I think he will be a stabilizing force…that is to say his impact may not show up on the stat sheet, but he could help shore up this team’s achilles heel. However, if he reamins on the bottom pairing, past history shows Hartley is going to play him less than 10 minutes per game…hard to have a big impact with very little ice time.

Craig, what are your feelings at this point about Little being with Atlanta for the entire season? If he starts slowly, do you think they will send him to Chicago before he qualifies for a year of NHL service, or do you think he impressed enough in preseason that they are committed to keeping him with the big club?

By Jsmooth

October 3, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this

This is an interesting topic for debate because no one really knows. And it all hinges on Bob Hartley and his ability to coax the most out of his young horses.

I tend to agree with Custance that Pops should have the most steady and consistent impact. I personally thought he was ready for primetime last year and see him solidifying our third pairing.

It’ll be interesting to see how much Enstrom impacts this team early on. Since he is so young, will Hartley start out with Mac & Pops anchoring the third pairing. I’m not so sure. Enstrom’s ability to skate and puck handle seem so good it may be next to impossible to keep him off the ice. I’d personally like to see him paired with Klee on the third pairing assuming Ex and Mac / Pops can handle the 2nd pair duties.

As for the young forwards, I really think Sterling will have the bigger impact because of that year of experience at the AHL level. Plus, he should simply benefit from being on a line with a sharpshooter like Kovy. I see him picking up a lot of loose change a la Simmer last year. However, I would not be surprised if Brett potted 25 goals.

Little may be the one to get lost in this picture. I don’t think his game will be suited to the scrappy, grind it out style of play we expect from the Perrin / Dupuis line. However, our checking line has a lot more skill than it did last year so perhaps Little will find his nitch or even convince Hartley he should be the pivot for Hoslov.

If it seems we are getting pushed around too much or dominated by bigger more physical teams, Hartley may need to move Holik back to the third line with Larsen and Dupuis.

If I had to rank them, I’d say most impact will be Pops, Sterling, Enstrom and then Little.

Sorry for the long post!

By Jen

October 3, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

Ranking the rookies is hard because the skill-set each brings is unique and has to be measured in different ways. From a statistical standpoint I see Sterling at 1 because if he spend the entire year on the Kovy line it means he’ll have a lot of points and Kovy will have improved numbers as well. I put Enstrom at 2. I was disapointed when he arrived this summer but everyone familiar with my rantings knows that he has grown on me over the exhibition season. I think his role on the Power Play Unit will be the distinguishing factor here. I think you could argue three and four are a toss-up. I’ll put Little at three because I think he has the biggest upside of the two and if he continues to improve at his current pace he’ll win a spot on a better line and could well end up with a nice number of rookie goals. I wouldn’t be surprised if he weren’t eventually the best of this group, but I don’t know that he will hit that mark this season. This leaves Popovic as 4. I think he will be a solid NHL player but I don’t think he will have any standout qualities that will distinguish him from your average defender. Solid is good, but I don’t think he has top pairing potential.

By Buzilla Baby Blues

October 3, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this

YEAH!

We put the dead horse away for another year…

1. Little - because I got his autography yesterday

2. Enstrom - because my fiance picked him up in my fantasy league

3. Pops - because I like his name

4. Sterling - because he is the last one

By Brendan

October 3, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this

Well, Glen Metropolit got signed by the Bruins. He’ll join Savard.

By Christy

October 3, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this

Interesting… In that I tend to see Sterling’s impact not for the goals he’ll score, but along with White the possible stabilization of Kovy’s line and maybe leading to increased scoring from Kovy as much as any goals that Sterling may contribute. If he and Kovy click and feed off each other the way Kozlov and Hossa do, it will be a beautiful thing to see.

Seeing Kovy produce like when Savard was here (and yes I know it’s White in Savard’s place, but I don’t know that White will be the one to drive Kovy’s scoring rather than to cover any mistakes or gaps left by the two wingers) would, for me, give the edge to Sterling over either Enstrom or Popovic shoring up the defense. Which, leaves Little, as but GaVaHokie says, last but not least.

By Brendan

October 3, 2007 2:25 PM | Link to this

1) Sterling - I think 15-20 goals is within reach. 2) Popovic, we need a steady force on our 3rd pairing. He’ll be partnered with Klee, more than likely. So, that’s something to watch. 3) Bryan Little - I like that he’s always the overachieving underdog. 4) Enstrom - I admit, I might be wrong putting him last. But that’s why they play the games!

By GaVaHokie

October 3, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this

Jen… just because Sterling is on Kovy’s line doesn’t guarantee him a lot of points… just look at the numbers on Kovy’s linemates last year. Mellanby, Rucchin, Metropolit, Sim… however, I do think Sterling is better suited than those guys being more aggressive around the net.

I hate to say it before the season starts, but Sterling could end up the biggest disappointment this year… “equal to” his opportunity and ability to be Rookie of the Year in the NHL.

By Buzilla Baby Blues

October 3, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this

Craig:

Since I started this topic, does this mean I am the new IceMan?

By Jsmooth

October 3, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this

GVH - I think Jen is expecting Sterling to score his fair share of goals because he will eat up the table scraps that fall onto the floor thanks to Kovy. Let’s not forget that Sim and Mell combined for 29 goals as Kovy’s RW. I would think that Sterling could match that if he really is the net monger everyone says he is. I’m inclined to think that if you can score 55 at the AHL level, you probably have a natural knack for scoring and he did show that in the preseason. I think 20 goals is very realistic. But the potential for chemistry with Kovy could be much greater since he should be able to keep up with # 17 on the offensive end of the ice.

By Holik-A-Holic

October 3, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

Sterling! I just have a good feeling about him. I really want some new blood to make a big impact for the Thrashers!! So lets have a very tight race for the winner!!! (Hopefully a HUGE impact so the NHL will quit trying to cram “SID THA SQUID” down everyones throat!

LETS GO THRASHERS!!!

By BG33Brown

October 3, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

I say enstrom…..with a mullet like that how could he not be a great hockey player.

By Timmy

October 3, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this

I talked to Ex at Face Off and he was under the impression that he’d be starting paired with Kenny Klee, just fyi for those discussing defensive pairings.

By Craig Custance

October 3, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this

Russ — I think you have to consider a couple things for Little’s tenure. If he starts slowly and isn’t getting a ton of ice time, then yeah, they’d have to look at sending him to Chicago for more seasoning. But also — who do you put in that spot then? Who do you call up? I don’t think you’d bring up Haydar to be on a checking line. Maybe a Colin Stuart or LaVallee? That’s one of the reasons I think Little will be given an honest opportunity to keep that roster spot.

Buzilla — Good topic, but I’ll let IceMan’s replacement reveal himself when he’s ready.

JSmooth — All indications point to Enstrom being paired with McCarthy and Popovic sitting on opening night.

By Buzilla Baby Blues

October 3, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this

Two more hours to get your videos in the in the Back to Blueland video contest

Bob & Brendan. I am still waiting for yours

By Craig Custance

October 3, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this

Here’s what I’m expecting to see on Friday night:

Alexei Zhitnik - Niclas Havelid Ken Klee - Garnet Exleby Steve McCarthy - Tobias Enstrom Mark Popovic

Slava Kozlov - Bobby Holik - Marian Hossa Ilya Kovalchuk - Todd White - Brett Sterling Pascal Dupuis - Bryan Little - Eric Perrin Eric Boulton - Jim Slater - Chris Thorburn/Brad Larsen

By Rawhide

October 3, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this

CC - I was waiting to see if someone would suggest a wager or a “blog pool” to see who the new Ice Man was….

By Buzilla Baby Blues

October 3, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

Is it just me, or could X and McCarthy pass as brothers?

By GaVaHokie

October 3, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

Jsmooth… Haydar had 42 goals last year and where is he? I can be devils advocate on anything. :)

But that’s why I said Sterling has equal potential to be a bust as much as Rookie of the Year… where as Little, Enstrom and Popovic are guaranteed “middle-road” guys.

By Jsmooth

October 3, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this

Triple B - I was thinking the same thing…it’s like they were separated at birth, but then again, aren’t they both from British Columbia??

Craig — thanks for the info on the first game pairings. I’m happy to see Enstrom getting the chance to impress early. Although I’m thinking Pops will get his chance soon enough..certainly on the road trip at the end of the month.

If Pops is the odd man out early and Enstrom gets several games (i.e. 5-7 game audition) to prove himself, then I will shift my order around like this:

1) Sterls 2) Toby 3) Pops 4) Little

I like Little, just haven’t seen enough of him to know if he’s ready for serious time on the big kids squad just yet.

By GaVaHokie

October 3, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this

Buzz… is it the bad long-hairdo’s or the chin stubble?

By Jsmooth

October 3, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

GVH — I hear ya on that but did Haydar ever net 42 goals at the age of 23? Upside is everything in professional sports. Perfect example is Metro who undoubtedly can play at this level, but always gets the shaft for younger talent. Let’s just hope that Sterls can be the ultimate “garbage man” like everyone hopes / expects.

By Bob

October 3, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

Popovic would be my choice for biggest impact, but I am disappointed to see that he is starting in Hartley’s doghouse. I guess he’ll get his shot when McCarthy or Enstrom start getting run over on defense too often. I guess it’s smart to hide McCarthy and Enstrom together on the third pairing and let them go out against the other club’s 4th lines at regular strength, and then give both ice time on the PP, and rest Zhitnik and Havelid on the PP. I hope that is coach’s plan.

For the rest then I’d go with Sterling as he’s going to be getting tons of ice time, then Enstrom, then Little.

I don’t see Little sticking the whole year, but I’ll be hoping he can, which’ll mean he’s being effective.

Come on, Brendan, start your first blog. You’ve got to be the new fan blogger, right?

By ranallo10

October 3, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

Good topic, but I’ll let IceMan’s replacement reveal himself when he’s ready.

Very revealing statement Craig. Guess that means Sara and Jen are out of the running. Some would argue Pucks and Snot gets ruled out by this statement too.

Here’s a topic of discussion that should garner arguments from both sides:

In light of the recent youth infusion to the Thrashers roster, how would you rate last season’s deadline deals in terms of talent lost compared to the talent on the roster currently? (i.e. - compare and contrast the rookies lost to the rookies on the team now)

Does Alex Bourret and Braydon Coburn get the same shot at a roster spot that Tobias Enstrom and Brett Sterling received? Would Bourret be the solution to Kovalchuk’s line, or would he be more suited for filling a third line role that Bryan Little is slotted to play (currently)? Where would Braydon Coburn fit in the defensive unit, and how would his roster spot affect the signings of players like Kwiatkowski, Pilar, etc? Would Enstrom have come to Atlanta had Coburn still been on the team?

By Buzilla Baby Blues

October 3, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this

I think they are waiting for the new server to get to the AJC headquarters to house Brendan’s blogs before he starts.

By Bob

October 3, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this

The deadline deals last year had to be done, have no problem giving up Bourret or Coburn.

However, if they hadn’t been made, then Coburn would be on the team this year. I think I’d rather have Coburn than Enstrom, I am very concerened about Enstrom’s size, or lack thereof, hurting us at even strength.

Bourret would probably be here instead of Sterling, can’t see Bourret in a checking role.

But we have Zhitnik now instead of Coburn, and we still have Enstrom, so that’s a win.

And we have Dupuis now instead of Bourret, and we still have Sterling, so that’s a win.

Thumb’s up for the deadline deals last year. Let’s hope that Waddell gets the green light to do them again this year, and that his cupboard isn’t bare. If we can get a top line rental center at the deadline, that could make a lot of difference.

By Bob

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

Brendan’s waiting until Friday morning, game day for our opener, to start his inaugural blog.

What’s his nickname going to be? Blueland Brendan

By CM

October 3, 2007 4:19 PM | Link to this

Hmm..a new “Ice Man” ey? Inquiring minds are dying to know… I think I know this, or at least have a very educated guess at it. I’m just curious if he’s going to change his name or stick by what we know him as. I suppose only he can answer that question. So what’ll it be, “Ice Man”?

By Rawhide

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

Actually, CM,….I’m hoping they’ll let me stick with Rawhide. But that’s their call.

By Maury

October 3, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this

If Bourret had played up to his potential last year in Chicago he would be suited for the first or third line. He needs to work on his emotional maturity. If Hartley would have given Stuart or LaVallee the opportunity he gave to Little, in terms of games and icetime in the preseason, either one of them could have filled the third line role. LaVallee would have brought a more physical dimension to the line. Both Stuart and LaVallee have an offensive upside as well.

By GaVaHokie

October 3, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

Bob… I’m much happier with Enstrom over Coburn. I think in time, you will be too… pure finesse.

I’m not worried about his size either. Coburn proved himself that size doesn’t mean strength… he got his arse beat in his first fight.

By Craig Custance

October 3, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this

Rawhide’s outing himself. I think there’s some paperwork that still needs to be finalized, maybe Rawhide is asking for a no-trade clause or something, but I’m looking forward to reading what he has to say as our new fan blogger. We had a ton of great candidates for that position, any one would have been a good choice.

By ranallo10

October 3, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this

“Puck and Ice Snot”

Maybe he’ll use that tag?

By ranallo10

October 3, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this

Congrats Rawhide.

By Craig Custance

October 3, 2007 4:50 PM | Link to this

Bob - Boy I like that debate too. Enstrom or Coburn?

By ranallo10

October 3, 2007 5:20 PM | Link to this

TSN reports “sources” having Heatley re-signed with Ottawa for 6 years, at an cap hit (average) between $7.5M and $8M.

By Hockeyfan

October 3, 2007 5:27 PM | Link to this

Bourret wouldnt be here (if we still had him). He would be at the McDonald’s closest to the Wolves practice facility.

Enstrom over Coburn.

Congrats to you Rawhide. I hope you at least go to games unlike last year’s “fan” blogger

By Brendan

October 3, 2007 5:34 PM | Link to this

Wow, that’s a scoop, Ranallo. The Sens did well, given the price-structure.

RAWHIDE, many congratulations to you. You will be a great fan blogger.

By GaVaHokie

October 3, 2007 5:35 PM | Link to this

Ugh… that Heatley deal made Hossa affordable to any team in the league… long term. There will be a lot of teams willing to throw out that price tag to Hoss.

By GaVaHokie

October 3, 2007 5:35 PM | Link to this

Ugh… that Heatley deal made Hossa affordable to any team in the league… long term too. There will be a lot of teams willing to throw out that price tag to Hoss.

By GaVaHokie

October 3, 2007 5:35 PM | Link to this

Ugh… that Heatley deal made Hossa affordable to any team in the league… long term too. There will be a lot of teams willing to throw out that price tag to Hoss.

By R. Stroz

October 3, 2007 5:49 PM | Link to this

GaVaHokie - I see your point; however, the Heatley deal makes it easier to offer Hossa a “premium” to the keep Hossa here.

Craig - I think you have your new blog debate/discussion for tomorrow.

By R. Stroz

October 3, 2007 5:52 PM | Link to this

The amswer to today’s blog question is whoever BH gives the most ice time to.

All joking aside, I’ll take Sterling.

By R. Stroz

October 3, 2007 5:54 PM | Link to this

RAWHIDE - P&S will be soooo happy to hear the news.

By Bob

October 3, 2007 5:56 PM | Link to this

Hit em up, ride em out, Rawhide! Don’t you have a family, Rawhide? Don’t let them pressure you into taking too much time away from what’s important.

I remember Coburn getting his face broke in that fight, but that’s not what I’m talking about. If Enstrom has more upside than Coburn, then I’m sure to like him, I just can’t see a little guy like that being effective defensively.

Offensively, sure, he has mad skills, but he is a defenseman. I’d rather skate a 4th forward at the point on the PP and have a good dman. I can see why they’re hiding him on the 3rd pairing, top forwards will just wheel by him.

But we’ll see, hopefully Enstrom can handle himself back there, but I agree he’ll be good on puck breakouts and at the point when we’re in the zone. And that’s something we were missing.

I will say the thing with Coburn that made me not sad to see Waddell deal him is that he didn’t seem to have heart, not just the fight, but to mix it up and take on forwards that came into his zone, he’d always be reaching with his stick instead of getting in there. Can’t teach heart.

By JayBird

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

Pretty much off topic but I have a question for you guys. I’m thinking about going to a Thrashers practice at some point in the next few weeks. What kind of access do you have to the players for autographs? Just wondering, wouldn’t mind getting my Kovalchuk jersey signed. Thanks!

By Bob

October 3, 2007 6:16 PM | Link to this

Waddell has said he likes to let others set the market, then he knows what the market is. Heatley’s probably the closest comparison to Hossa. I think it’ll be the back 4 years on Heatley’s deal that Hoss’ agent will want it compared to. Mabye they are paying Heatley 8.5+ at the back end years.

So now does Waddell get that offer on the table to Hoss? what premium does he stick on the Heatley offer to get Hoss to sign now? Of course that’s assuming that Hossa’s not determined to keep his options open on who to sign with when he’s UFA.

By Rawhide

October 3, 2007 7:38 PM | Link to this

Thanks dudes, (and dude-ette, CM),…..I’ll try to make this fun!

CC - Still waiting on a phone call,…otherwise the “contract” is fine. .But I don’t know about the term “outing myself” :o)

Hockey fan - I make quite a few,…I’m one of those lucky ones who’s wife is a fan of the game as well so I never have a tough time getting out with or without the clan.

BRENDAN - Thank you for your kind words. I will try not to disappoint.

Ranallo - Thank Youuuuuuuuuu.

R.S. - You think?? I really haven’t given that much thought. :o)=)

hehehehehehehehehe

GO THRASHERS - CRUNCH THE CRAP-ITOLS!!

By Rawhide

October 3, 2007 7:41 PM | Link to this

Oh,…and BOB - Like I said,…”She-who-must-be-feared-and-obeyed” has NOOOOooooooo probs with the amount of time I spend with Le Thrash and my friends here. She is a big fan herself.

By GSU-Lee

October 3, 2007 8:12 PM | Link to this

So apparently the Senators know what to do with a superstar, RE-SIGN THEM. THey inked Heatley 6 yrs, 45 million. (Waddell?)

By Bob

October 3, 2007 9:01 PM | Link to this

The Heatley signing makes it easy for any Hossa contract. Hossa makes $7M this year and Kovy $7.5M for two years after this. Crosby is at an annual average of $8.7M. Heatley annual average of $7.5M. Heatley is a comparable player to Hossa and thus the contract essentially sets market value, particularly in light of current salary levels. No one in their right mind would offer contracts of greater annual value than Crosby. DW will probably offer between $7 and $8M over 4 or 5 years. I think 8 is too much given playoff history, whereas Heatley also performs in the post season. If Hossa chooses to walk after an offer of a similar contract, let him. With the money, we could acquire two of “Kozlov type” salary (and talent hopefully).It will be difficult for Hossa to command much more unless a GM wants to be irresponsible. I think this makes it much easier as the market has been defined.DW probably welcomes the benchmark, puts the agent in a bit of a box.

Glad to see Ilya get an A, well deserved.

By Bob

October 3, 2007 9:08 PM | Link to this

Enstrom-terrific skater, good instincts, excellent puck movement and passing.

Sterling-he’s a goal scorer. Not bashful at all.

Little- solid defensively, decent acceleration, quick shot…will keep getting better.

Popovic- looks like he would be the 7th defender at this point based on games I’ve seen to date.

By Midfield

October 3, 2007 9:23 PM | Link to this

Suppose, we make play-offs and Hossa flops yet again. Should a GM even try to re-sign him?

By Rawhide

October 3, 2007 9:32 PM | Link to this

BOB - I think your comments on the Heatly contract helping the Hossa deal is right on the mark. If DW puts 7.5 mil for 4 years on the table for Hoss and he walks, then he didn’t wanna stay in the first place and that gives Don the ability to go get a couple very good UFAs with that sorta dough.

Now,Hoss isn’t a dummy,…he’ll be in no hurry to ink a deal ‘cuz he,too,knows what the market is and he can get that money from another team should he wish.

As the season progresses, if the Thrashers are hanging around first place in the division and sitting at or above the 5 seed in the conference, then the more likely it is that he comes to the table to get the deal done early.

Also,I think what happens around the trade deadline will be of interest to him. DW makes the right deals again, as he did last February,…he’ll like what he sees long term here.

I’m really not too worried that the deal hasn’t been done yet.

Heatly is in a different situation. He is already where he wants to be,…close to home and with a team that looks to be great for years to come. So, why not get it done and get the money in the bank ASAP.

By Bob

October 3, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this

…”She-who-must-be-feared-and-obeyed” has NOOOOooooooo probs with the amount of time I spend with Le Thrash and my friends here. She is a big fan herself.

There you go. As long as The Boss is happy, we’re all happy, right?

This is sweet watching games again, game on, boys and girls.

By The Villages, FL

October 3, 2007 9:57 PM | Link to this

Sterling and Enstrom probably will get more ice time than Little or Popovic, Sterling because he is playing with Kovy, Enstrom because he will play on the power play. If he moves the puck out of his end the way I’m reading, that will be exciting in itself. Our defensemen blindly throwing the puck up the boards when they were hurried got real old. We’ll miss Sutton’s shot blocking but not his, I hope some one on my team is on the boards to get my pass.

Sounds like Little has a lot of upside; I’m excited to see him play on Friday. Thank goodness for the NHL Package, since I live in FL. Popovic should settle into a solid blue liner.

By Tony C.

October 3, 2007 10:28 PM | Link to this

45M for 6 years sounds like a deal to me. Considering he’s just come off consecutive 50-goal seasons, seems like Dany is a lot more of a “team guy” than most of his detractors here in ATL would care to admit. Even if his contract is front-heavy or back-heavy, the total and the amount still show that Heatley and/or his agent realize that the CBA mandates that a team that truly wants to be competetive must have cap flexibility.

So yes, DW can offer Hoss a max-offer sheet (which would be a good bit more than Heatley’s deal I would think), but at what cost? #17 isn’t going to be cheap when his contract expires, and if these rookies are as good as advertised, they ain’t gonna sign for “bargain” rates I’d wager.

Just a thought. I think the Heatley deal puts Hoss’ @ 4-5 years @ $6.75-7.25M per depending on where they want to take the biggest hit.

By Thrashers27

October 3, 2007 11:05 PM | Link to this

Which of the rookies will have the biggest impact? That is a tough question to answer. I definitely think Little and Sterling will put up respectable numbers this year. I’m not familiar enough with Enstrom and at this point I don’t think Popovic is a whole lot better than any other fourth pair D man we’ve had over the last few years.

I’m willing to predict that Sterling finishes the season with 65 points. 25G, 40A. Little finishes with 60 points. 20G, 40A. Enstrom comes in with 20 points. Five goals and 15 assists. Popovic will finish with 7 points if he serves a full season.

Go Blue!!!

By Tony C.

October 3, 2007 11:47 PM | Link to this

27

I am hoping you points-predictions are accurate!

GO BLUE !!!

P.S. C.C. Really liked the article on #17

By Wreckin & Thrashin

October 4, 2007 1:07 AM | Link to this

Little is the guy we need to come through the most, as we need a #1 center. I hope he will deliver. That said, I like what I’m seeing out of Sterling. This kid is going to be fun to watch, and maybe he will be in the mold of Theo Fleury. Hopefully only on the ice anyway.

By Sara

October 4, 2007 7:58 AM | Link to this

Honestly, I’m not sure how much the Heatley contract is going to impact the negotiations (such as they are/aren’t) with Hossa. From everything I’ve seen and heard, Don’s already got a contract in mind - length/money - and I’m sure that has already been communicated to Hoss’s agent. Don’s not going to take it back now that Heatley signed for less (I am way surprised that contract isn’t averaging over $8 mill a year and I have little doubt that $8 is the ballpark Waddell is going for with Hoss).

Hoss isn’t re-signed yet because Hoss doesn’t want to be re-signed right now. If ever. I guess he wants to see more in terms of the team’s potential to at least play for if not win the Cup (ironic given he hasn’t exactly done much in the post-season to help out that cause himself). And there is something to be said about being able to pick where you want to play/live. Can’t fault anybody for that.

Time will tell I suppose.

In the meantime, I got to watch some spectacular hockey last night ~ God I love October! Wings-Ducks was some great action and lordy is Statsny gifted. Can’t wait for the league to change around the scheduling again so we can see those West Coast kids in person.

Last, but certainly not least, congrats Rawhide!

By B. Thenet

October 4, 2007 8:06 AM | Link to this

Biggest Impact:

Bryan Little

Look, we know that even with terrible linemates Ilya is good for at least 75 points. With Sterling and White it will be around 90.

Enstrom is likely a 2nd unit PPer for now, plus his size is going to cause some problems in the beginning as he learns to play against giants(and coaches will want to put their big lines out against him)

Popovic- He is steady, and should be a very strong bottom pair D this year. He will not have that much of an impact, as you only notice those bottom pair D when they do something wrong.

I see Little as the key to the season. If the Thrashers can get some consistent scoring from their 3rd line this year, they could run away with the division.

Everyone wants Little to move up to the top scoring lines quickly, since he has the skills. However, if our 3rd line can push the opposing D and get plenty of offensive chances it makes the opposing teams job that much harder.

I think too many NHL watchers got so caught up in the size of Anaheim and thought that was the path to success in the new NHL. However if you look at teams like the Ducks, Buffalo, and Ottawa, they could give you the knockout punch from their 3rd and 4th lines. Having a serious scoring threat on a 3rd line makes it that much easier for the top 2 lines to find some space in the D…and takes the pressure off our average at best D.

By B. Thenet

October 4, 2007 8:20 AM | Link to this

On the Bourret topic.

He would be in Chicago right now, because yet again he injured himself in camp.

Apparently he spent the offseason in the weight room, instead of working on endurance or skating. According to Tom Renney(in the NY Post) he did this workout regime without the Rangers approval, and they were not pleased with his fitness level on the ice when he arrived in camp.

By Bob

October 4, 2007 8:44 AM | Link to this

I’m willing to predict that Sterling finishes the season with 65 points. 25G, 40A. Little finishes with 60 points. 20G, 40A.

Wow. If that happens, we win the division going away and are Cup Contenders.

I think you might want to temper those expectations for both of those guys.

So that’s why Bourret was sent down so early.

By DWTOO

October 4, 2007 9:06 AM | Link to this

Think Enstrom will have the biggest impact. His strength is moving the puck - something this team has needed from their DMen since the beginning. Aftet that it’s Sterling, simply because he’s on a line with Kovy and White. Should be a lot of opportunity for a player who likes to hover around the net. This will be a learning year for Little. Look for him to make a bigger impact next year. Popovic is not a high profile player, but, think he’ll be steady on the blue line.

Now that we’re done debating the merits of yelling “knights” who’s going to booooooo Heatley on wednesday night? Sorry - Couldn’t help myself.

By GSU-Lee

October 4, 2007 10:07 AM | Link to this

Great story on Kovy, Craig.

By stoptheknight

October 4, 2007 10:09 AM | Link to this

The booing of Heatley is ridiculous and needs to stop. Yes, he said some things we didn’t like but you know what, he wasn’t that far off base. Atlanta isn’t that great of a hockey city, unfortunately. Waddell isn’t all that good of a GM. Heatley went through complete hell here, somewhat self-inflicted of course, and he needed a change of scenery. I don’t blame him and wish him the best of luck in his life.

By Bob

October 4, 2007 10:35 AM | Link to this

Stop yelling Knights during the anthem!

Let’s all boo Heatley on Weds., he’s still a bum for thumbing his nose at all us hick fans after he got to Ottawa!

The Nasty Nest need to hold off on the goalie chant until AFTER we score our first goal, then just chant his name over and over and over so the whole arena gets into it

Hartley needs to start rolling 4 lines and get a good rotation with the goalies!

Waddell is incompetent and nothing will meaningfully change here until we get an experienced, successful GM in here to turn things around!

There, I think that about covers it for the contentious issues, let’s drop the puck already and get on with the games.

By Midfield

October 4, 2007 10:41 AM | Link to this

Dude, I don’t like Heatley and I will boo him whenever I am not busy sipping my beer. And don’t tell me what I need to do or stop doing, for that matter. Keep your Canadian moralizing to yourself, if you can.

By Buzilla Baby Blues

October 4, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this

Does anyone know if the Thrashers moved the goalie judges from behind the glass?

Each team can move them if they want to a cheaper seat to do the judging from.

anyone? Bueller? Rawhide?

By R. Stroz

October 4, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this

Instead of yelling goalie name X 3 and you suc, lets yell Heatley X 3 and you suc.

By R. Stroz

October 4, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this

One more idea, especially for the nasty nest, everytime time Klee puts Heatley on his backside, scream Kleen up aisle 15.

By Rawhide

October 4, 2007 12:23 PM | Link to this

Zilla - I do not know the answer that question however I will endevor to find out.

I did not dotice anything different at the preseason games, of course I wasn’t looking for such either….

BTW, Farris Bueller’s Day Off,….classic!

By Thrashers27

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

Alright folks, let’s show a little class. Dany Heatley is a good kid that made a BIG mistake for sure, but does he deserve to be further reminded of that? No!

Put yourself in his shoes. I guarantee he tortures himself far more than anyone in the world could. He is a class act that had an accident while doing stupid kid stuff. It’s not like he’s a low-life criminal like Michael Vick. Now there’s a guy who deserves to be booed.

In summation: Be nice to Dany, cheer for the Thrashers, feel the “hockey love” and DON’T YELL “KNIGHTS!” you dolts! :)

By Bob

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

zilla, they had the goal judges sitting on these high tech sweet little folding chairs right behind the goals in the preseason games I went to, so looks like they’re keeping them there.

Stroz, excellent idea, or just chant his name over and over … Heatley, Heatley, Heatley, Heatley. Arrogant little beeyotch scored 2 goals and an assist last night including the game tying and game winning OT goal. Boo!

By GaVaHokie

October 4, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this

Sometimes I yell Knights, sometimes I don’t… depends on what mood I’m in. I don’t see that changing for me.

However, I will boo Heatley relentlessly… because it’s fun, and he’s a Senator, and he’s a really good hockey player and it sickens me he’s not here anymore… because why? He drove his Ferrari 80 mph in a 35 mph zone and (shockingly) crashed his car. That’s not a mistake, that was an inevitable consequence of stupid behavior.

I also plan to Boo Jaromir Jagr, just for the simple reason he’s Jaromir Jagr.

By B. Thenet

October 4, 2007 1:20 PM | Link to this

Heater requested his outright release from the Thrashers, and then when it was not granted by DW he demanded a trade. After how the fans and organization treated him after the accident, I think I’ll keep on booing him.

By CM

October 4, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

Boys and girls..it’s almost time. A new season is upon us and the puck will drop in approximately 30 hours (or so). We have a friend as our new..well uh..Rawhide, what’s your title anyway, what do they call you? “Head of the fan blog dude”? The “View from a Fan Guy”? The “New Ice Man”? Talk to me Goose, I need answers. Anyway, at least here I haven’t officially offered my condol..ahem..I mean my congrats for your recent promotion from regular blogger (like the rest of us schmoes)to the guy who gets his name in schnazy bold blue letters. Congrats (again) friend Rawhide!

Here’s to a great season and how about we lay off of Heatley already. He’s a studd of a hockey player who made a career move like gazillions of other athletes have done before him. Let it go or seek therapy :)

Is it too early to UNLEASH THE FURY? Didn’t think so..

GO THRASHERS!

By ranallo10

October 4, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this

Guess it’s me, but I don’t understand booing great players. I don’t feel so strongly against booing Heatley as I do yelling “Knights”, but I feel a bit of shame whenever someone yells stuff like “why don’t you go kill one of your new teammates”, or some of the other despicable things some Atlanta “fans” say to him.

Personally, I don’t boo opposing players. I may not like Crosby as a player, but I don’t boo him because he plays a good game, or makes a great play. I’m a hockey fan, I enjoy watching good players play. Seeing Heatley score against the Leafs gives me pleasure, especially since it’s the Leafs (how can anybody like that team?). However, I don’t like seeing opponents do well against our own team, so beyond the “good goal, you deserve props” I definitely don’t cheer for Heatley.

But hey, that’s how I treat the situation, I know many people who feel a lot more hatred for the guy for the reasons B. Thenet mentioned. To each his own. But please keep it to booing, it’s horrible to call him things like “murderer” — that’s just disrespectful to everyone including Dan Snyder’s family.

By R. Stroz

October 4, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this

Thrasher27 - Heatley a class act, after his comments about the town and team, give me a break. Heatley is a talented punk, that turned his back and ran his mouth like a high school cheerleader after the fans and organization supported him.

Heatley said and did the right things to stay out of jail and then blew town. In retrospect, I wish he had served time.

You are right on one count, he does have to live with the result of idiotic immature behavior which resulted in death.

I’ll support Heatley the same way I’ll support MV7. Booooooo

By GaVaHokie

October 4, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

Ranallo… I have to disagree. I’ll do whatever it takes to throw Crosby, Jagr and Heatley off their game. Do I respect their talent levels? Yes!But, in our house, let’s not make them comfortable.

That’s been one of the biggest problems for the Thrashers in past years… it’s easy to play in our building. Selling out games, standing room only, because Mario Lemeiux is in town. Same with Sidney Crosby now… or maybe everybody is happy with the “Melting Pot” of fans cheering for other teams? Am I wrong?

By Thrashers27

October 4, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this

I’ve heard people talking about what Heatley said about Atlanta, but I never heard exactly what it was that he said. Something to the effect of “Atlanta sucks as a hockey market and that the hillbillies don’t know hockey.” You know what…I agree with that if that is what he said. Sometimes the truth hurts. I agree with Ranallo on booing anyone. It’s just not a classy thing to do. It shows poor sportsmanship and ignorance. Going back to my Michael Vick referrence…I wouldn’t even boo him. Wouldn’t want to give him the satisfaction of my acknowledgement.

By ranallo10

October 4, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

I think a player gets more thrown off his game when their opponent consistently outperforms them and has more energy than them CONSTANTLY. In my opinion, home team advantage comes when the home crowd gets crazy when their team does well, thus pumping up the home players, and enabling the adrenaline to sustain a high level of play in each player.

Kovalchuk feeds off the crowd, he showed that during the playoffs. But the playoffs also showed that home advantage doesn’t mean much, even if you’re booing Sean Avery and Jaromir Jagr every time they touch the puck. Lundqvist didn’t get affected by any “you suck” jeers either. Maybe they had earplugs those two nights?

I don’t think that home players get that adrenaline boost from hearing boos for their opponents, nor do I think most professional athletes get knocked off their game by boos or “(insert last name three times) you suck”. How has Brodeur fared every time he’s played in Atlanta? How did Lundqvist, Avery and Jagr do in the playoffs? How has Heatley done every time he’s here?? I don’t think the boos or the you sucks affect their games one bit.

I definitely hate seeing more Red Wings, Sabres, or Flyers fan in the house when they visit (as you said, the “Melting Pot”). THAT is what I dislike the most about being an Atlanta fan. But I have respect for most of those fans because they’re not there booing the Thrashers, they’re there cheering for their team.

I think there are two players however that are exempt from my “no booing” policy…Donald Brashear and Tie Domi. Darcy Tucker is pretty darn close, as is Daniel Briere, but both of them get more Greg Louganis comments yelled from our section than boos.

(new game — count the boos in my post)

By R. Stroz

October 4, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

Thrashers27 - Grow a pair!

Sometimes the truth hurts.

By the way, hillbillies watch NASCAR, not hockey.

I’d be willing to bet you are a condescending transplant. If so, please return to your point of origin.

By ranallo10

October 4, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

Hokie, you might enjoy this. In case you didn’t catch this story last year, here’s how some superstars (Griffey Jr.) handle hecklers.

By Bob

October 4, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this

Heatley played like crap, absolute crap in his games here. The boos definitely affected him, it was very obvious.

Now calling him murderer, etc. is way out of line. But Hokie is very right, you always boo the other team’s guys, it’s part of being a fan, but save the name calling.

By ranallo10

October 4, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this

Stroz, those “hillbillies” that watch NASCAR outnumber hockey fans by multiples of 10. NASCAR has more fans than any other “sport” (I use that term loosely for car racing) in the US. Hockey as a sport would be lucky to bring fans to the stadium in the numbers that NASCAR does.

Also, if you’ve read any of the blogs over the last few months, you’d realize Thrashers27 is one of the more supportive fans here in Atlanta.

As my old friend Bob said “It’s his opinion, deal with it, argue against it, state your case, but why try to shut him up?”

By R. Stroz

October 4, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

Ranallo10 - The Griffey story is great.

All dives must be judged in relation to Briere’s perfect tens. You must be sitting nearby during the games.

By R. Stroz

October 4, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this

Ranallo10 - Hillbillies don’t attend hockey games. The fans, who supported Heatley, were/are hockey fans, not hillbillies. Calling the Atlanta hockey fans, who supported Heatley, hillbillies, is disrespectful to the hockey fans as well as inaccurate.

Heatley didn’t mind the fan support during his time of need; but, when the time of need passed, he dissed the fans by essentially calling them ignorant hillbillies.

As a result, I will always agree to disagree with anyone who supports Heatley’s actions after he left town.

Furthermore, I will boo Heatley vociferously.

By ranallo10

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

Stroz — Briere should try out for the Olympics.

Bob — While not spectacular, Heatley has scored 3G and 1A in 4 games against the Thrashers in Atlanta since his departure. Ottawa lost 3 of the 4, so maybe the boos worked against the team. But I’d say 4 points in 4 games is about average for most good hockey players. Clearly those four games aren’t a large enough sample to determine much, but I don’t feel his play declined when hearing boos with every touch of the puck.

By Chris O,

October 4, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this

One of the great things about sports is that you can hate somebody without really hating them. I hate Brendan Shanahan, for all the whining and dives and begging for a trade out of Hartford. But to a man, he’s a great guy. Sports can give you that outlet to boo and hiss somebody as a “villian” just because they’re on a rival team. All humans need that outlet. Better that than hating gays or blacks or jews. Hate Ovechkin or Heatley and boo them at the games. As long as you’re not cursing in front of a seven year old, say whatever you want.

By ranallo10

October 4, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this

Stroz — Understand that I have no issues with you booing him, I just don’t agree with it. Your reasons are understandable, and you’re not alone in it, I just don’t agree with it.

To be honest, I cannot recall verbatim what he said (it’d be nice for someone to find a transcript). However, I know I’m not a hillbillie, redneck, nor ignorant fan (“The Program” might disagree with the third statement). I know about a third of Atlanta fans aren’t ignorant fans (though they could be one of the other two, I don’t know personally). But I think when someone says “all Atlanta fans are hillbillies” they are clearly over simplifying. Sitting in the stands and hearing what people in Atlanta OFTEN say during the games, they are not 100% inaccurate.

Honestly, that doesn’t just go for Atlanta fans. I’ve seen fan recorded videos of games, where the common theme is “fight! rip his head off! KILL HIM!”. I personally could do without those types of people.

Anyways, agree to disagree, I’m cool with that. Glad you enjoyed the Griffey story (though, I think the fan looked like the loser out of all of it, turning into a blubbering baby as soon as Griffey acknowledged him. If you boo a person, you shouldn’t be pandering to him/her as soon as they notice you out of the crowd. As you said, Grow a pair!)

By Thrashers27

October 4, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this

Stroz, having recently undergone hernia surgery, rest assured that I have a “pair” and that “pair” has grown way too much for my liking, so you don’t worry your pretty, little head about my having a “pair”.

Of course I’m a transplant. I’ve lived here for nearly eight years and have met only a handful of people who are from here. I would be willing to bet the left half of my enlarged “pair” that 85% of the greatest supporters for the Thrashers are transplants. Hillbillies do go to hockey games. Just last season I sat next to a guy that probably had three of his own teeth left in his head and the biggest southern twang I’ve ever heard. I could barely understand him. This was his first ever hockey game and he continually asked questions and I patiently answered every single one. I don’t mind anyone developing an interest in the game even if they are “billies of the hill variety”. This only further proves mine and Dany’s point that the Atlanta market as a whole is ignorant when it comes to hockey. This is understandable, because most of the people who grew up here have never seen snow, much less, ice that you can skate on.

GO THRASHERS!!!

By ranallo10

October 4, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this

Good point Chris.

By R. Stroz

October 4, 2007 5:03 PM | Link to this

Ranallo10 - Every non-traditional hockey city will have its share of neewbies that are just learning the game or “going to see a fight.” Some of those individuals will learn the game and others will go back to watching WWE.

However, no player should generalize a city based upon geographical location. If a player left Phoenix and called the fans a bunch of beeners, you can bet your backside that player would be booed everytime he played in Phoenix again.

And, although I understand your preference not boo a player, I prefer to express my disdain for certain players. I do agree that those expressions of disdain should have limits; for instance, calling Heatley a murderer is unacceptable. I do enjoy screaming for X to knock some more of Heatley’s teeth out.

By R. Stroz

October 4, 2007 5:10 PM | Link to this

Thrashers27 - I grew up in Atlanta, skated at the Igloo (which later became Jellybeans, a roller rink), went to Flames games, and played my fair share of ice and roller hockey. As a result, I tend to resent transplant comments that Atlantans don’t know hockey.

By Thrashers27

October 4, 2007 5:47 PM | Link to this

Fair enough, but I think you’d have to agree that you are the exception, rather than the rule.

By R. Stroz

October 4, 2007 6:28 PM | Link to this

Thrashers27 - We’re good.

By Stan

October 4, 2007 7:32 PM | Link to this

It isn’t about Heatley, but today I did a blog about remembering Dan Snyder. He passed on the 5th.

[http://www.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?blogger_id=81]

By Brendan

October 4, 2007 8:21 PM | Link to this

RAWHIDE, there is no way you will disappoint. You are regular blogger who is consistently good. I think the AJC made an excellent choice and I encourage all my fellow bloggers to throw their support behind RAWHIDE as we stand on the precipice of the new seasoon.

GO THRASHERS!!

By R. Stroz

October 4, 2007 11:29 PM | Link to this

Stan - Great Article & Analogy