Thrashers

By GaVaHokie

October 22, 2007 1:23 PM | Link to this

You mean Kozlov is bumped down with Holik and Dupuis… not Hossa and Dupuis.

By Craig Custance

October 22, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

Just got word from Toronto that Darcy Tucker is out indefinitely with a knee injury.

By Kozlov

October 22, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

I win!!!

By sharpie

October 22, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this

So where does this land Haydar?

By R. Stroz

October 22, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this

Sounds like DW is in panic mode already.

By Kozlov

October 22, 2007 1:32 PM | Link to this

Damn it.

Will Slates seat this one out? God, I hope so.

By GaVaHokie

October 22, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this

Pat Burns doesn’t seem like a good fit. Can’t imagine the Thrashers trying to play “The Trap”… I certainly don’t want to watch it either.

I don’t like those line pairings… I think it’s time to try Kozlov between Hossa and Kovlachuk… this makes more sense to me.

Kovalchuk Kozlov Hossa Sterling Little Haydar Larsen Holik Dupuis Perrin White Slater

By R. Stroz

October 22, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

Upon further analysis, the coaching staff has ascertained that Perrin is not a replacement for Belanger and Little is probably our best center.

By Thrasher Ryan

October 22, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

Toronto can be a very physical team. If I am DW, I scratch Brad Larsen and replace him on the Holik/Dupuis line with Eric Boulton. I also scratch Jim Slater and replace him with Chris Thorburn. Klee should also be scratched, in favor of Popovic (get him some action Don! Klee is just not any good!). In the meantime, if I am Don, i am shopping around Klee, Jimmy “Slates” Slater (his spot on the roster is easily replaced by Bryan Little), Holik, Larsen (spot is replaced by Boulton), Havelid, Zhitnik. We all knew this was going a youth movement this season… so lets bring up Desbiens, Stoesz, Valabik, and try to get rid of some of these overpriced veterans. It’s time to clean house and salvage what we can out of this season.

By Thrashers27

October 22, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this

Interesting lines Hokie. I say Waddell should give it a shot. Wouldn’t it be great to see a real center brought into that mix? Little can fit that bill, but we still need another.

By luckydog

October 22, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the chewy update Craig. I was wondering if Pat Burns might be a possibility. He coached some pretty strong defenses at NJ, though that was under the old rules…

By PuckedUP

October 22, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

Craig, lots of questions from that. What’s the thinking behind the Hossa move with Little and Sterling - speed? Does this mean the Hossa-Little-Sterling line is now the top line? I am curious what might become of Haydar.

By Buzilla Baby Blues

October 22, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this

GAVAHOLIK for Coach, Brendan for GM or at least Comptroller

By Brendan

October 22, 2007 1:58 PM | Link to this

R.Stroz, this is what (poster) Russ has been telling us all along. Don Waddell is in “panic mode.” Remember when DW said, “There’ no panic here,” and within 48-hours, Bob Hartley got canned? Remember?, after the looong stare down at the ice for nearly 10-minutes, in nearly comatose-like fashion, according to some reports.

Okay, let’s throw a “monkey wrench” into this goaltending situation. Ed Belfour is playing in some Swiss league, I believe, on a contract that can be “opted out” of relatively easily. Anyone want him?? And his “wonky” back? I’m jus’ askin’.

Sitting by the telephone, waiting for it to ring, is none other than Curtis Joseph, a guy whose fate may have been sealed in the Summer of 2002, when he turned down the Leafs offer of 4-years, $28 million in favor of 3-years, $24 million with the Red Wings, only to see Hasek “unretire” and take his spot.
Anyone want 40-something year Cujo??

Before you say, “Are you completely nuts?,” remember this. These are “incentive-laden” eligible contracts. In other words, Belfour and Cujo are older than 37 and can be signed at the league-minimum $500,000, I believe. Anything else would be part of the incentives. Also, any of those guys could be jettisoned at the trade deadline for latter round picks or “conditional” good ones, depending on how desperate some team is within the “playoff field” for goaltener-insurance heading into the playoffs.

By Brendan

October 22, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this

Craig, just out of curiosity, have Selanne and Forsberg “officially” retired yet?

By wvubru

October 22, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this

don’t like these lines at all.

I have stated my opinion more than once and will do it again. The kid line is our best line to date. Keep them intact and give them minutes; they will produce. Force Slava to center. Starting lines s/b:

Kovy/Slava/Hossa Little/Haydar/Sterling Larson or Boulton/Holik/Dupuis Perrin/White or Slater/Thornburn

By Craig Custance

October 22, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this

Hokie - thanks, I corrected it.

By russian

October 22, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this

to Brendan Man, You scared me. Do you want all old NHL players? Ealge and Cujo are old and they are not good for team. Fosberg is expancive and no word about his health situation. Selanne is good only in Ducks.

By Craig Custance

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

Brendan: Re: Selanne and Forsberg. I don’t believe they’ve made it official. In fact, I expect Forsberg to play this year and Dallas reportedly was trying to bring him in.

PuckedUP: We’ll probably see Haydar on a line with Slates and Boulton. I’m guessing Larsen and Thorburn are out, but I’m not positive at this point. Don was available before I observed practice and talked to the players, so we’ll see at the morning skate.

R. Stroz: I like Little with Hossa. Also, look for more of that Kovalchuk-Little-Hossa combo, especially if the Thrahsers are having a hard time getting PP time.

By russian

October 22, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

I do not think it is good idea to break Chicago Wolves line. They were doing Ok lately. I am absolutely agreed to make line as Hossa-Kozlov-Kovy. It will be intersting to try them together. Third line should be Dupuis-Hollik-Boulton. Larsen and Slater need to sit and think about their games.

By Maal

October 22, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

mostly i suck at math, but i’m pretty sure we’re 1-8, not 1-7.

By UpperDeck4Life

October 22, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

I don’t mind Hossa playing with Sterling-Little. I would rather see Haydar playing with Kovy-White than Perrin or Slater though.

Kovy-White-Haydar Sterling-Little-Hossa Kozlov-Holik-Dupuis Bolton-Perrin-Thorburn

With Larsen and Slater in the box

By ranallo10

October 22, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

I noticed Kovalchuk - White - Hossa get some time during the third period of last game, I guess Coach didn’t like that combo?

Sterling - Little - Hossa…puts the two rookies in a position to shine, but it also puts Hossa into an up-tempo line (something that he’s been lacking thus far). Perhaps this will kick start Hossa, which is definitely needed.

Kozlov on the checking line makes Atlanta the proud owner of the highest priced third line in the NHL ($8.797M). Dupuis ($880K), Holik ($4.25M), Kozlov ($3.667M)…dubious distinction right there.

I’m down with Kozlov playing wing or center with Kovalchuk, see how that works. Nobody should care if Kozlov hasn’t played RW since Detroit, I’m sure he can handle it (he wont be any less invisible, that’s for sure). Maybe keep White there for appearance sake?

Larsen needs to be sat, but Thorburn is the player who is deserving of the spot. Haydar has been playing well, but gets the shaft from other people’s need to improve (Hossa). Perrin is getting off too easy, he should be sitting. In fact, is it possible to sit more than 3 people?

My bench nominees: Klee, Perrin, Larsen, Boulton, Klee (to emphasize his crap play I’d have him listed twice on the pressbox roster).

I need to change my name to “Despondent STH”…but on the bright side, PAVELEC LOOKED PRETTY GOOD (for one period).

By djb

October 22, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this

Looks like report on the Thrasher Message Board from today’s practice had Haydar on the Kovy White line…can this be confirmed?

By ranallo10

October 22, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

And am I really the only person who thinks it’s wiser to keep Pavelec up here than to sign any other goaltender imaginable? What would be the use of having Brathwaite in Chicago if Waddell were to go after Belfour, Joseph, or some of the “rumors” like Raycroft???

Makes little sense to me. Pavelec is the future, give him his chance to learn the game now and see how he reacts. If Hedberg collapses and Pavelec is a headcase, then look for help elsewhere.

By UpperDeck4Life

October 22, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this

ranallo I have to agree with you, Kozlov plays along the right side boards on the power play, I don’t see how him switching to the RW on a regular line would be that difficult.

With that said this is a dramatization of a phone call that I would have hoped occured in DW’s office today.

DW: Hi Peter, how’s the foot. Listen I was talking to Kovy and Hossa today and they really want me to get them a good offensive center. So how much is it going to cost me to get you on a plane to Atlanta this morning? Oh, Peter, can you hold on a second?

“Place name of any league GM here”: Hey Don, listen is the rumor going around the league true?

DW: Yup, Holik and Slater can be had for a bag of pucks, heck if ya throw in a couple of sticks I throw in Zhitnik.

“Place name of any league GM here”: Hummm, tempting offer, let me talk to my equipment guy and see if we have an excess of pucks and sticks and I’ll call you right back.

DW: Hey Peter, sorry to keep you waiting, I was clearing up some roster space for you. So how much again to be in Atlanta tomorrow?

By Mark

October 22, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

This team is poorly constructed. The fact that people are talking about Kozlov as a viable option at center between Hossa and Kovy is a perfect illustration of that fact.

I hate to say it but I don’t want Waddell prosiding over this team anymore. He’s the reason why the team is in the state it is. That being the case, I hope the team continues to lose because I see that as the only way Waddell will be sent packing and then and only then will we be able to start building a competitive NHL Team. Also, what kind of good coach is going to want to come here knowing the GM is on a short leash. Most GM’s want to bring in the coach to run the team so that presents a problem in itself.

By Bob

October 22, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

I don’t like Waddell’s lines at all. I do like Hokie’s lines and think they’re our best shot and thus, 2nd the nomination for Coach Hokie, and GM Brendan while we’re at it:

Kovalchuk Kozlov Hossa Sterling Little Haydar Larsen Holik Dupuis Perrin White Slater

There’s no need to go get a goalie for this year, play Moose and Pavelec. Trade Hoss. Go for the #1 pick. New GM that will actually attract guys wanting to sign here. Heck, the right GM might actually be able to change Hoss’ mind and bring him back after we trade him?

By GaVaHokie

October 22, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

Getting Belfour and Cujo sounds to similar to the Byron Dafoe experiment.

I’d also like to see Kovalchuk with Kozlov (C) and Slater (RW)

Buzzilla… I don’t know if you remember me saying this to you in preseason, but my biggest fear for this team was not being able to find the correct line pairings quick enough.

By GaVaHokie

October 22, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

Matt… the coaches that will want to come here are…

A) Pat Quinn and Pat Burns who are both sitting at home not making any money. And…

B) Several minor league coaches who are waiting for ANY chance to coach at the next level… and make a lot more money doing it.

By Kozlov

October 22, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

Oh man! I’d love to see Sellane play for Atlanta. But he is not a center.

By ranallo10

October 22, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this

Not to rain on anyones parade, but taking a look through the potential free agents of this offseason does not make this Thrashers fan content with waiting until next season.

Who is the cream of the crop who is not leaving the Atlanta Thrashers? Wade Redden and Mats Sundin. After that, it’s basically 2nd tier players or RFAs that are likely to be re-signed. Unless I missed his name, there is no viable number 1 center that will be available (unless Spezza signs an offer sheet). Next best options? Ribeiro and Comrie…not exactly the best options.

I hate to say it, but if this season is a flop there doesn’t appear to be ANY quick fixes in the offseason (alah Philadelphia).

Wishing for the number one pick means you’re conceding at least one more season like this one…full of disappointment and incessant losing.

I’m hoping for some form of a turn around.

By FormerIslesFan

October 22, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this

Ranallo I’m on the same page as you. Of the many things that this team needs to concentrate on obtaining at this moment, goaltending is not it. It makes no sense to me to go after any other goalie when Pavalec is ready, willing and able to take the shot.

UD4L - Loved the phone call. But, can we beg them to take Klee as well???

So, this begs the question: which is the more dire, immediate need? A #1 center or a #1 defenseman? Personally, I come from the “defense wins championships” theory, but this year, the concept of winning a championship came and went the first week of the season…

By GaVaHokie

October 22, 2007 3:47 PM | Link to this

Bob… you bring up a good point… how great is John Davidson to trade Keith Tkachuk and then bring him back in, even after failing to make the playoffs?

The thought of not making the playoffs, trading Hossa and then having him come right back in free agency?! Seems impossible.

By Dusty One

October 22, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this

Mr. G.M. should know enough to keep the kid line (chicklets) together - they are about the only inspiration on the team right now. The defense is very porous and needs a good quarterback. A strong North American leader is needed both in the the dressing room and on the ice - someone such as Derian Hatcher - trade Kozlov, Zhitniik, Klee & Dupuis for one seasoned veteran North American defenseman and the team will improve 100% - then use the remaining salary cap at trade dead line. Keep the kid-line going.

By Craig Custance

October 22, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

Mark — Yeah, I don’t think the Thrashers will have a hard time finding coaches interesting in coming to Atlanta. There’s a finite number of NHL coaching jobs.

By Thrashers27

October 22, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this

I seem to recall Slava centering Kovy’s line for a while when Savvy would go on the IR…and if memory serves, they had quite a bit of success.

I think Belfour and Cujo are head and shoulders above what Dafoe ever was. Bringing in one of those guys would certainly make Kari expendable. We could pull the old “heal and trade”. Then next year Pavelic is the #1 guy.

I am anxious to see Hoss play with Little and Sterling. I would also like to see a Kovy, Kozzie, Hoss line though. Haydar is getting the shaft. We need to find a way to keep him up. He will not clear waivers if sent back down.

I think this team has the pieces it needs. Just need to put them in the right places.

By GaVaHokie

October 22, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

Ranallo… I know you’re talking Center, but actuall there’s few guys I like next summer…

Pavol Demitra, Brian Rolston, Ladislav Nagy, JP Dumont, David Legwand, Dan Cleary, David Vyborny, Radim Vrbata, Kristian Huselius

Demitra could be a good Center option in Atlanta… he’ll be 33 next year and should still make about $6 million or maybe less, I would think.

By ranallo10

October 22, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this

I don’t see most of them as top liners, nor as players that could dramatically improve the situation in Atlanta (especially sans Hossa).

All but Legwand are wingers, and though they can put points on the board they are more complimentary pieces than they are difference makers. True, Demitra and Rolston CAN play center, but so can Kozlov. They’re wingers for a reason.

Compared to the difference makers that were on this year’s UFA list, these players are not going to set the Thrashers up for a playoff run in ‘08.

But I do like some of these names, I just would like them better if Hossa were still on the roster.

By Sara

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

Another thing to keep in mind for next season is trades - we could potentially land a good center that way. Another team may need to free up some cap space, for example. Detroit is bulging with talent at center right now (in fact my buddy up there and I worked out a trade last night - Thorburn and a 2nd rounder for Fillpula and Downey - I’m digging it - too bad we can’t just call up Ken Holland and Don and get it done).

There are potential other options - all hope is not lost.

By DB

October 22, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this

I can’t see Belfour being signed due to his well known penchant for the bottle.

By GaVaHokie

October 22, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

Ranallo… for $13 million, you could create a whole new line of Rolston Demitra and Dumont, and that would certainly make a difference.

That’s what I’m aiming for here.

By Thrashers27

October 22, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this

Check out TSN.CA’s online poll. They ask “Who is most to blame for the Thrashers slow start?”

[http://tsn.ca/nhl/Default.aspx]

By Thrashers27

October 22, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this

Check out TSN.CA’s online poll. They ask “Who is most to blame for the Thrashers slow start?”

[http://tsn.ca/nhl/Default.aspx]

By Boone7

October 22, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this

Not to second guess, but just think where we might be with Belanger and Tkachuk instead of White and Perrin…DW loves the 4th liners…

By GaVaHokie

October 22, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this

Yep, that polls been there for a week now.

By Buzilla Baby Blues

October 22, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this

I do remember you saying that Hokie. You are as wise as Yoda and just as good looking

By ranallo10

October 22, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this

Good point. Having Rolston’s booming shot on the point for a powerplay could help a bit. But does this team need another 35 year old worth $2M+?

Demitra is the only candidate in my mind, as I doubt this club could realistically sign three of the names you mentioned.

Also, Brad Stuart will be a free agent.

By Mark

October 22, 2007 5:19 PM | Link to this

Craig, I’m sure that we will be able to find a coach that wants an NHL head coaching position but I also think that some, namely the top candidates, might take a pass due to 1) the ownership situation which isn’t pretty and 2) a GM that can’t do his job and is short on job security. That’s all I am saying. NHL Head Coaching jobs open up all the time and if you are considered to be a top candidate by those in the know, why would you want to come here. I’m sure that other, better options will become available.

By R. Stroz

October 22, 2007 5:23 PM | Link to this

If there is a player available that is over 35 and costs 2+ million, DW will sign him to three year contract before I can finish this post.

By Boulton's Bruisers

October 22, 2007 5:41 PM | Link to this

There is a cancer in this locker room. It’s initials are BH; and NO, it is NOT Bob Hartley.

By Krust

October 22, 2007 6:11 PM | Link to this

Load up the first line Kozzy Kovy and Hossa.

By Brendan

October 22, 2007 6:12 PM | Link to this

I want to agree with Ranallo here. I’d stick with Pavelec, even though it means “rushing him” a bit. But another thing to consider is this: If he plays too much, the clock starts “ticking” on his path to restricted free agency. Lehtonen will be out a minimum of four weeks, possibly six weeks. Maybe longer.

I don’t really want Cujo and Belfour in here. And what’s more, I doubt they want to be here, either.

By rane

October 22, 2007 6:15 PM | Link to this

“my name is r. stroz, and i am smarter than any of you about hockey! if anyone disagrees with me or thinks i am a complete anal cavity, then they are all the same person known as ‘sybil.’ “

“boo-hoo-hoo!”

whatever, dude. get over yourself.

By LAC

October 22, 2007 6:21 PM | Link to this

Hey Craig… If we run out of water who gets the blame for no ice at the rink ?

We have so much dead weight it’s a really quite AMAZING.

Anyone who writes here on a regular basis, namely Brenden/Bob/Sage/GaVa Rannallo10, have stated the OBVIOUS time and time again…Over and Over and Over, This entire MESS has been put togather by one man waddell, he has had little or no input from anyone, but himself.

But as we have seen he is a FAILURE, problem ALL here clearly see it, his BAD draft’s, Poor trades and AWFUL UFA signings… We see it why not this group of owners ?

What the HELL is wrong with these CLOWNS ? I do not get it, we have an even playing field on salary and we go CHEAP while others make smart moves to help their clubs and we leave it up to waddell…Just Wonderful !

Where are these owners, are they THAT STUPID honestly if I ran my business like they do the team I would Fire myself, There is NO excuses anymore… They have to act on waddell before this thing ruins the franchise and it is heading in that direction FAST, but these owners say “We need tosee progress” yeah geron you stupid piece of $hit, and snydel lying to ALL of us opening night saying “They are doing everything to Bring The Stanley Cup To Atlanta” He lied to the soldout crowd.

Folks we are The Laughing stock of the NHL and it is getting WORSE unless we get these owners to react on waddell. I’m not back at Philips until waddell is GONE once and for all… What else can you do ?

By Brendan

October 22, 2007 6:30 PM | Link to this

Scott Mellanby was “opining” on Hockey Night in Canada (over the weekend) that Marian Hossa wanted a premier #1 centerman on his line for this season, and the foreseeable future, possibly as a “condition” of re-signing here. (Remember, a Czechoslavakian news article—during the Summer—stated Hossa was allegedly seeking a 4-year deal?)

Well, the Center that DW inked to a 4-year deal— to play with Hossa —turned out to be … (drumroll please) … Todd White. (Bah-dum-pum.)

Is Todd White in the caliber of Chris Drury, Scott Gomez, or Daniel Briere? (Don’t answer that. He’s been a 3rd line center most of his career. Nobody should blame White for signing the contract Don Waddell presented him with. Let’s be fair to White. He got a great deal. And if he’s our long-range 3rd line center, perhaps we’ll all be happy with that?)

Even a Peter Forsberg signing only addresses THIS YEAR. If you’re Hossa, you’re happy to have Forsberg for one season, as you play out your contract. But you know Forsberg won’t be here for the next four years. The only Thrasher under contract for the next four years … is Todd White.

Now, I hardly think Marian Hossa is angry at Todd White. I don’t sense that there’s any “friction” there. But, is Hossa “angry” at Don Waddell? I think it’s a fair question. I mean, if Hossa told Waddell, “get me #1 centerman, and I’ll re-sign.” And Waddell’s response was, “Here ya go! Here’s Todd White!” Hossa’s reaction might well have been John McEnroe-esque.

“YOU CANNOT BE SERIOUS!!”

Your thoughts?

By luckydog

October 22, 2007 6:33 PM | Link to this

I’m sorry but I just do not get the sudden fever to trade Hossa. He’s arguably the best overall player who’s ever worn the Thrashers jersey. He’s 29 (10 mos. older than “baby bird” Darren Haydar). He’s a 6-1 210 forward who can skate, score and hit. Dunno what kind of clubhouse guy he is but he leads by example on the ice. He is a man among boys on this squad. And now that DW has trashed the rest of the roster we’re going to get rid of HIM?!? I understand he’s going to want money, but you’ve got to have a core of elite players to compete. Who are we going to replace him with??? None of the names that have been discussed come close. Do we really think 2 or 3 b-listers are going to do the trick when he’s gone?

I also don’t see why we’re talking about picking up some retired goalie. We have our last year’s playoff goalie, plus Pavelic, plus a serviceable sub in Braithwaite. It’s Kari who is expendable and ought to be big-time trade bait, although his crappy play and glass groin have probably devalued him by a good bit…I wish we could package him with whoever it takes other than Kovy and Hoss and get a big league, Kopitar-type center or top-line d-man..

By Dave

October 22, 2007 7:08 PM | Link to this

Thank God LAC, we don’t want you back.

By Dave

October 22, 2007 7:08 PM | Link to this

Thank God LAC, we don’t want you back.

By LAC

October 22, 2007 7:28 PM | Link to this

Screw you dave go watch some racin… I offer facts, not crap like yourself…

By Brian

October 22, 2007 7:30 PM | Link to this

I saw the Mellanby interview on NHIC as well. I find it ludicrous that we already have 2 $7 million players on the team and Hossa wants to add a third. Let’s do the math here:

Cap = $45 million 3 $7 million players = $21 million Remaining cap space for 24 roster players = $24 million

Average salary for remaining 24 players = $1 million

Yes, Hossa wants another $7 million player on this team, who doesn’t? But who wants to watch a team that has 3 guys that are great, the rest are getting paid like 4th liners???

By Tony C.

October 22, 2007 7:30 PM | Link to this

Brad Stuart should’ve been signed this summer. Seeing as how he signed w/LAK, being on an “instant contender” obviously wasn’t a priority…now while LA certanly offers a whole lot more glitz and stuff to do, I can’t imagine that a package that would’ve been attractive to Stuart’s people was out of the realm of possibility for Le Thrash.

As far as summer ‘08 possiblities @ centre, I have to think that Comrie and Ribero are the 2 most logical choices for our club. Comrie being way more preferable. I think that Ribero would defnitely flourish serving #17, but after his antics in the playoffs a few yers ago with Montreal (infamous cry-baby penalty)-I have to think that Comrie gets the nod.

Whoever was posting about trading for one of the deadwings young centre prospects-I’m for that. One thing the Detroit system has proven over the past 10-15 seasons is that they teach their pivots the right way to play (also, their scouts are awesome).

Hoss on Little’s line? You have to wonder if he’s been b!tching the most about having a good centre. It’s just shameful that you have two of the premier shooters on the planet, yet don’t have the foresight/willingness to get a decent pivot.

grr.

GO BLUE !!!

By Brian

October 22, 2007 7:51 PM | Link to this

Here are the lines that should be used: kovy kozlov Hossa The wolfPac (sterling little haydar) Slater White Dupuis (pure speed) Perrin Holik Thorburn

Each one of these lines brings something different…the wolfpac line has been the most productive this season, so they are definitely a scoring threat…each of these lines has the ability to put the puck in the net…. whats the point of breaking of the wolfpac line? They are the only ones working well together… different “coach”, same old song and dance…

By Brian

October 22, 2007 7:53 PM | Link to this

Dave - if you want LAC to deal with facts, ask him why he announced on July 1, 2007 that the Thrashers weren’t going to sign Kozlov and said goodbye to everyone for the summer, then only 4 days later on July 5, 2007 he was back posting again, even though he said goodbye for the summer, and saying how great it was that Kozlov was signed…

By Brian

October 22, 2007 7:59 PM | Link to this

Ok, now there are 2 Brians, should one of us change our name to Bob to solve the confusion? Although I like the WolfPack line name instead of Rook line or Kid Line

By Tony C.

October 22, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this

WolfPack does sound better…except Little was only a Wolf for like a week.

Still sounds good. I say we go with it.

By thrashtheeast

October 22, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this

Wheres Hossa? 5 goals in his last 20 games. Thats 20 for a season…great use of $7M. He has QUIT. Thinks its still the playoffs. Hossa and Kozlov not showing up is NOT DWs fault. Poor goaltending from Kari has also not helped. We are letting in way too many softies. Our opponents are not. We’ve had plenty to chances .

Give Kovy the C. Now.

By Bob

October 22, 2007 8:58 PM | Link to this

I’m sorry but I just do not get the sudden fever to trade Hossa. He’s arguably the best overall player who’s ever worn the Thrashers jersey.

You are correct, no argument. Hoss is the best player to ever don the sweater (or this year’s ManBlouse abomination).

The reason you trade him is because he’s a UFA this coming summer and he is gone. See ya. Sayonara. Outahere.

There is no way he’s staying here, so you have to trade him. They cannot let him walk at the end of the year for no return. Then we’re really sunk. They can move him before then and get a nice return of probably a couple NHL players and a prospect.

Would I love to see him stay and sign a 6 year deal. Absofreakinlutley. But he is not going to sign, Waddell went hard after him and he wouldn’t do it, so he’s got to be moved. I guess it’ll be mid to late November when he’s moved, but Waddell could drag it out till the trade deadline.

By buster

October 22, 2007 9:15 PM | Link to this

Why doesn’t Don give Thorburn a chance at centre. He played there for three years in junior and was very successful. Also, he is big and strong and might be able to open up some ice.

By kracker

October 22, 2007 10:14 PM | Link to this

For argument, and assuming we have to trade Hossa because he won’t resign here, isn’t it better to trade him asap to get try to get maximum value? Waiting on a sweet deal to materialize at the trade deadline probably won’t happen, we’d be the known must-sell seller.

Shopping him now to the higgest bidder, maybe on a sign and trade, may be bad PR but the smart thing to do. Disgruntled fans will accept any trade except Kovy and they will like it well enough if we get good players and picks. especialgetly if it’s trade Hossa or end up with zero from the Heatley trade.

By Brian

October 22, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this

Kracker - ok, so we put Hossa out on the market right now, but who is shopping for the #1 all-star winger? No one at this stage in the season…

By LAC

October 22, 2007 10:28 PM | Link to this

Question for Brenden…

If we were to sent several vets to Chicago for example, they have to clear waivers first, would the Thrashers still be on the hook for the their salary ? Or would it go off the books so to speak ?

I was thinking maybe it’s time to bring up some of the Chicago players if this does NOT turn around in a couple weeks… We would have zero to lose.

By Bob

October 22, 2007 10:45 PM | Link to this

I didn’t mind Waddell’s deadline deals last year but this guy sure didn’t

By stendec

October 22, 2007 10:47 PM | Link to this

All the signs were there from late last season to early this season. Thrashers should have dealt oft-injured KL while they had the opportunity. Trade value zilch now. No one wants damaged goods! Thrashers have KL while Falcons have Leftover. Always watching inactive from sidelines. Damn shame but Thrashers did it to themselves. Just a personal observance.

By BigBill

October 22, 2007 11:04 PM | Link to this

Brian, you need to quit attacking bloggers,it is so worthless.

You’ve attacked this guy before,he is just commenting on events as he sees them, why the problem ?, others make dumb or stupid comments, why not attack them too ?

The Canes were very fast tonight in their 3-1 victory over Vancouver, they can skate and look very very good… wish we did.

By Brendan

October 23, 2007 12:20 AM | Link to this

LAC, unless the player is claimed off waivers by another team, Atlanta’s on the hook for their salary. Now, the salary can come off the books for a longterm IR situation. But the player still gets paid. NHL contracts are guaranteed (and insured). Think Steven Rucchin. Now, there’s still a chance Rucchin can return this season. And therein lies some of the difficulty. If he’s cleared to play at some point, his salary returns to the cap figure. So, if you go acquire a center to replace him, now you’ve got to pay both of them, and both count against the cap. Good luck trading Rucchin!! I suppose a 5th or 6th round pick might be possible. And forget a “buyout.” No other team is going to make Rucchin an offer. So, why should he accept two-thirds of his salary when he is owed all of it? Clearly, this is not the way Rooch wanted to end his career. And I feel bad for him—and wish him the best. I feel bad for Hartley, too. But he’s still getting paid and I suspect he will find another coaching gig before it’s all said and done.

LAC, if the wheels fall off the bus, then the best course of action is a firesale for picks and prospects. But picks in the hands of a bad GM are worthless.

By Brendan

October 23, 2007 12:51 AM | Link to this

Bob, (the Original, longtime poster,) I missed the interview with Belanger in Minnesota. But I wanted to get some clarification on what was actually said. If I am hearing one possible interpretation correctly, (and admittedly, I might not be,) Belanger knew that Keith Tkachuk was not coming back this season. He also knew that Hossa would skip town if Waddell didn’t get land him the top flight center he wanted for his line. So, Belanger quickly ‘sized-up’ the situation and implied that he had to leave Atlanta before he got blamed for not being a #1 center (for Hossa’s line). That is, Belanger knew his role wasn’t to be #1 center, but that that’s precisely what Waddell would ask him to be. So, when he got the opportunity to get paid an extra $250,000 more than what Waddell was allegedly offering, with an extra year to boot, he jumped to Minnesota. First, because he liked the deal, and second, to “escape blame” here in Blueland.

Bob, is that anywhere near what was said in that interview?

By luckydog

October 23, 2007 7:48 AM | Link to this

Thanks, Bob, for the Hossa response. I understand the UFA part, I just wasn’t aware that the chances of re-signing were considered so bleak at this point. Silly me, I was envisioning actually building around Hossa for the next 3 or 4 seasons by bringing in complementary talent — the way an actual NHL franchise might operate.

If it’s true that he’s already a goner, it means that in mid October we’re basically throwing in the towel on both Hossa and this season, because Kovy and a dozen dwarves aren’t going anywhere. Yet another sad indictment of DW. Under that scenario I suppose it makes sense to trade Hossa and then try to open enough salary to make a run at some comparable talent next summer.

Any thoughts on who that might be?

By Bob

October 23, 2007 8:39 AM | Link to this

Brendan, I didn’t read that much into his comments. The gist of it was that he said he didn’t like the direction and vibe around the Thrashers and decided he was better off in Minnehaha. It’s another example of reason #287 why Waddell should have been gone a long time ago. Now you got slugs like Belanger dissin him for the warm confines of Minnehaha.

luckydog, I totally agree that Hossa is a guy you’d want to build around, that’s why it’s so disheartening to know that he also is doing a Belanger and saying “no way, Donny” when asked to sign. There’s reason #288 to get rid of him sooner, rather than later. Mabye, just mabye, if he saw the Spirit Squad hire a real GM, he could be convinced to stay.

By Hip Czech

October 23, 2007 8:50 AM | Link to this

Kozlov should have been playing center LAST year. The man needs to be in open ice, not in the corners.

I agree, load up the top line (Kovalchuck, Kozlov, Hossa). The second, third, and fourth lines certainly couldn’t be any worse than what we have now.

Ottawa does it with the Heatley-Spezza-Alfredsson line. They get a ton of ice time and as long as the other 2 or 3 lines are defensively responsible it seems to work.

By GaVaHokie

October 23, 2007 9:13 AM | Link to this

Hossa needs to stop crying and realize he IS the difference maker. I’d tell him, “You’re the guy that has to make everyone else look good.” The same with Kovalchuk.

By luckydog

October 23, 2007 9:29 AM | Link to this

CRAIG: Maybe you can help clarify the Hossa situation. Some posters here think a new contract is out of the question at this point. Is that your read as well? If so, what are you hearing as the most likely scenario for moving him, and how does the team’s awful start figure in? Or are we getting ahead of ourselves here? As a reader and fan I’d be interested in some pro-fessional reporting on the topic, not just assumptions and speculation…

By GSU-Lee

October 23, 2007 9:30 AM | Link to this

Has Kozzy played center before?

By Craig Custance

October 23, 2007 9:38 AM | Link to this

luckydog — No, I don’t think a new contract is out of the question. In the midst of all the craziness that’s been going on around the Thrashers, Hossa’s agent was still supposed to get in touch with Waddell yesterday. I would temper the attacks on Marian if I were you guys, he’s not the problem.

By luckydog

October 23, 2007 9:45 AM | Link to this

Thanks Craig! Nice to hear an informed voice of reason now and again…

By GaVaHokie

October 23, 2007 9:52 AM | Link to this

GSU… Kozlov played Center in Detroit as well as RW. He can play either.

By Buzilla Baby Blues

October 23, 2007 10:13 AM | Link to this

Hossa is one of the only reasons to go to Thrashers games. He is the only two way player that we have that excels at both ends of the ice. He has taken over as the focal point of this team (which has made Kovy a hundred times better this year). I would do everything I could do to sign him (8 mil) including trading Kari for a center once his crotch stops stinking. I also agree with putting Kovy/Kozy/Hossa on the top line and the, what are we calling them now, Wolfpack line, as the second line. It makes sense. These kids are intimidated being on the same line as the superstars and the superstars are bent because they hate playing with scrubs. Win/win…

Trade Kari

By GaVaHokie

October 23, 2007 10:27 AM | Link to this

All you have to do is look at the highlight clip of Sterling’s goal in Tampa to see that Haydar and Sterling are on the same wave length… that line needs to stay intact… it’s the only chemistry I’ve seen all year.

By GaVaHokie

October 23, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this

Actually, looking at it again, it was Little who assisted on that goal. Even more proof that Sterling Little and Haydar are ALL on the same wave length.

By luckydog

October 23, 2007 10:34 AM | Link to this

Tell it, Buzilla

By Buzilla Baby Blues

October 23, 2007 11:06 AM | Link to this

…and whats the deal with airline food…

By R. Stroz

October 23, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this

Well Craig has started the topic of the day, if Hossa isn’t the problem in his contract negotiations, then who is? Obviously, Craig knows but is not at liberty to say. So lets begin the speculation, and if someone gets it right, maybe Craig will tip us off “between the lines.”

By todd

October 23, 2007 11:14 AM | Link to this

move KOVALCHUK to center !!!!!

By The Other Brian

October 23, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this

(There I changed my name..haha) Even after the top line of kovy kozzy and hoss then the WolfPac, we still have a really good 3rd line of Slater White Dupuis…there is SO much speed on that line thats its scary…each of these guys could possibly put up big numbers…problem is that they are put on the line with the “superstars” so they feel like if they dont score or dont get the puck to the BigGuns then they are worthless…take the pressure off…put them on their own line…I guarantee they will put the puck in the net with the pressures being off…Also, the 4th line of Thorburn Holik and Perrin could be lethal…Perrin is more of a hard nosed player that likes going to the corners…Thorburn and Holik could add the Grit and some speed (out of Thorburn at least)…SO DUMB TO BREAK UP THE WOLFPAC…That is very frusturating!

By Brian

October 23, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this

The Other Brian - ha, funny name. I think Larsen-Holik-Dupuis are fine if they are a 3rd line asked to check, not asked to produce goals regularly, just pitch in the occasional one. I am also officially endorsing your Wolfpack nickname…

By Brian

October 23, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this

I was also going to add to the “Hossa is gone” fodder. Bear in mind, all those who are saying we have 0% chance of resigning Hossa were also saying last summer that we had 0% chance of resigning Kozzy…

By Bob

October 23, 2007 11:51 AM | Link to this

Well Craig has started the topic of the day, if Hossa isn’t the problem in his contract negotiations, then who is?

What Craig means, if I can speak for him, is that some are blaming Hossa for his play (not the contract deal).

Waddell already said he went hard after Hoss to sign an extension before the season started. It didn’t happen. Mellanby alluded on HotStove that Hoss wanted out. Hoss has not signed an extension and was quoted last summer as saying he wants to sign his next contract for somewhere he can pick and choose and he wants to be able to win.

It doesn’t take a mind reader to read between the lines here.

By ames

October 23, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this

Tell me again why we got rid of Belanger?

http://msn.foxsports.com/nhl/story/7357788?CMP=OTC-K9B140813162&ATT=142

By gategirl

October 23, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

If you want a center get Andy McDonald he had put up the number when paired with a great winger, so far he has played on a line with Paul Kariya and Teemu Selänne. If you pair him up with Kovy then we would be rolling in the points. Right now he is in his 2nd year of a 3 year $9 million deal so he is not that expensive.

By Life of Brian

October 23, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

Asked about the rumored impossibility of re-signing Hossa, Craig ACTUALLY said:

“No, I don’t think a new contract is out of the question. In the midst of all the craziness that’s been going on around the Thrashers, Hossa’s agent was still supposed to get in touch with Waddell yesterday.”

Reading bewteen the lines, I think Craig thinks it ain’t over with the contract….

By R. Stroz

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

Waddell already said he went hard after Hoss to sign an extension before the season started.

Bob - When did you start to believe what DW says?

This is the part of Craig’s quote which leads me to think a Hossa contract isn’t outside the realm of possibility.

No, I don’t think a new contract is out of the question.

But when ambiguity is involved, it is hard to know how much emphasis to place on which part of the statement.

By GaVaHokie

October 23, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this

Ames… Belanger turned down a contract offer from Waddell.

By puckjunque

October 23, 2007 1:06 PM | Link to this

Not to change the subject, but this is alot of speculation about a situation we all have no control over. Yes it’s frustrating to see us lose like this but do you think DW and the owners read the blog? I guess venting has some use. So as long as we’re venting…. am680 is a bunch of static in Canton, will one y’all give us update tonight about what’s going on, while it’s going on? Will it be on XM?

By GSU-Lee

October 23, 2007 1:10 PM | Link to this

GaVaHokie, Thanks for the info. By the way, I am from Va. Beach. Big Hokies fan. HUGE game on Thursday. VT will win, 23-17

By Brian

October 23, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

puckjunque - you just summed up this blog perfectly. There are those of us that like the Thrashers and like to talk hockey, then there are those that no matter what happens, they just bicker about DW.

GSU-Lee & GaVaHokie - I’m not a big VA guy, but I hate BC and will root for you on Thu…

By Just Plain Rawhide

October 23, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this

puckjunque - Have you tried 93.5 FM? It’s out of Jasper and I get it fine in the Kennesaw/Acworth area.

By Jenny

October 23, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this

All the line changing in the world won’t work if the players don’t bother to show up. They need ENERGY.

I’m okay with splitting up the WolfPack (nice, by the way) just so long as they’re put back together if this doesn’t work. It’s time to take chances.

Speaking of chances, Ben Wright, over at the Blueland Blog mentioned the problem w/ Slava centering Kovy and Hoss. He’s done it before, and he’s not comfortable. You know what I say? Kozzie might not like to player center, but if he can do it, than he freaking should. Something’s gotta give.

And if mixing up the lines doesn’t work, than it’s time to start trading. I don’t care if we trade a 3rd liner for another 3rd liner, and I don’t care if Kari has to go, or even Hoss, just do something so the players know that Bob Hartley is not the only person being held accountable for this awful “playing”.

By puckjunque

October 23, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

Thanks J P Rawhide, I’ll give it a go.

By GaVaHokie

October 23, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this

Hokies will beat BC if they can score 3 defensive touchdowns… our offense is horrible. ;)

By Surly T

October 23, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

Why does everyone love Kozlov so much? Am I the only one who thinks he is weak and plays with no intensity and no heart? He obviously has some natural skating and passing talent, but I challenge his character. We’ve all read about how he has had to battle the challenges of life, including the famous car crash that killed his friend and left him devastated before coming to the U.S. But is it possible that those challenges also left him without any passion? He just doesn’t seem to care. He makes bone-headed passes for a “playmaker” and loses battles along the boards. I never see him hustle on the backcheck and he looks lost in the neutral zone. Honestly, his point totals the last couple years are directly attributable to Hossa, Kovalchuk and the powerplay rather than his individual merits. Why does everyone think having him center Kovy and Hossa will save this team? I prayed he wouldn’t be re-signed because he was overpriced but here we are. Someone please enlighten me. Maybe a stint on a checking line will teach him some discipline. Then again, maybe he just doesn’t care….

By ranallo10

October 23, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

Agreed, but I’ll be rooting for them Hokes. Beamerball has proven it’s worth, I’ve got faith.

By Dave

October 23, 2007 6:59 PM | Link to this

LAC, you offer arm chair hockey advise that nobody wants to hear. Go ahead and stay away……….you won’t be missed.