AJC > Sports > Thrashers > Blog > Archives > 2007 > November > 09 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USNo comment on media training
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
It’s always fun to talk to a team fresh off their media training. I entered the dressing room this morning after the practice down here in Ft. Lauderdale or Sunrise or wherever the arena is, and immediately discovered the strategies the Thrashres were taught in Duluth when the league sent a media training staff to Atlanta. Evidently there’s a group that does a league-wide tour so NHL players learn the proper way to interact with predators like myself.
And it’s a good thing, because these hockey players are bombarded by the crush of media in Atlanta. So here’s what I learned from the players. Evidently, no comment is out. Ken Klee said it’s preferred to say, something like “I’d rather not discuss that, but I’d be happy to talk about ‘fill in the blank’” To which Bobby Holik said, “I’d be happy to talk about me.” I’m beginning to suspect that the media training didn’t sink in with Bobby. He seems to show some empathy towards the job we have to do, saying “I have a job to do, and you have a job to do. Even when you ask stupid questions.” There you have it.
Ilya Kovalchuk is a go tonight. Losing him would have been a huge buzz kill for this team and likely would have sapped them of any momentum they’ve picked up in their last five games. The Thrashers are 4-1 in their last five games, would you like to guess what they’d be in those five without Kovy?
But he’s back, and playing a Florida team that’s solid at home. The Panthers are 3-2 in their last five games, and this is a pretty decent Florida team. Especially defensively. You’ve got to love what a guy like Jay Bouwmeester brings to the table to lead the defense. The Thrashers could use a 6-4 blueliner, that’s for sure. I’m also looking forward to seeing Cory Murphy. When we were down here for the exhibition season, I chatted with Brian Biggane, who covers the Panthers for the Palm Beach Post (one of our sister papers). He said Murphy was going to sneak up on people this season, and he’s been a great addition to the power play down here. He has a goal and nine assists so far this season. That reminds me. When I was in Buffalo watching some hockey at a sports bar up there, a guy told me that he was close friends with Murphy and that the Thrashers were interested in him this summer. Don Waddell shot that one down via e-mail a couple weeks ago. Man, if you can’t trust random drunk people in Buffalo sports bars, who can you trust?
Carroll Rogers continues to do a great job pitching in with Thrashers coverage, her story “Dirty jobs go to Thrashers’ 4th line” is a great read. Great stuff from Odgy at the end. Speaking of that line, Jim Slater said they are now the “Greek god” line. Why, I asked? Because, he said, they all have sculpted bodies. I don’t know about that nickname for the three of them, I think Zeus would have a goal by now.
On that note, I’m going to finish up this Kovalchuk feature. I’ll get at your comments in a little bit.
Comments
By R. Stroz
November 9, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this
And the Winner is…
By FormerIslesFan
November 9, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this
Yes, it’s CC’s blog, but as long as it’s not ‘zilla
By Tom
November 9, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this
Not me…
By Matt H
November 9, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this
Funniest. Post. Ever.
By Matt H
November 9, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this
Also, total burn on Slates there, CC… Better watch your head next practice, Kratos might be hunting for it…
By R. Stroz
November 9, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this
Craig - Since Holik wants to talk about himself, would you mind asking him a few choice questions?
If you don’t want to ask, I’ll be glad to do a sttuuttering John type interview.
By BG33Brown
November 9, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this
CC, what is more likely. Slater (Zeus) getting a goal or the Spartans winning either of their last two games.
I still haven’t recovered from Iowa, let alone the Michigan choke job.
By Alan
November 9, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this
Great to see Kovy will play tonight! Who wants to see another hat trick?
By Craig Custance
November 9, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this
Matt H — I’d hope Jim knows I’m kidding, you’ll never read a bad word about my fellow Michigan State Spartan in this small corner of the internet universe.
BG33 — You know, just when I think MSU is turning the corner, they go and blow a game to Michigan. I think the program is headed in the right direction though. As for Slates, he’s creating some good chances, I think he’ll get one here soon.
R. Stroz — Bobby won’t back down from any line of questioning. What do you have?
By ranallo10
November 9, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this
Custance — Ask him who he thinks he can skate faster than on this team. Now that Mellanby is gone that’d be a trick question, but I’m curious to know his answer.
By R. Stroz
November 9, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this
Craig - I’ll try to put the questions in a somewhat respectable format.
1) Does Holik see himself as the team leader or does he see that role shifting to other more productive players?
2) Does Holik believe his value to the team matches his salary?
3) Does Holik see his salary as an impediment to bringing in a top line blue liner or center?
By R. Stroz
November 9, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this
Craig - One more question:
Ask Holik why he doesn’t throw down in support of his team when the situation calls for it?
For example, when Enstrorm was checked face first into the boards by Straka or when Colton Orr (or was it Hollweg) stuck an elbow in Zhitnik’s face.
By David
November 9, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this
CCAt what point does Hossa’s trade value go down if he continues to slump? We all know he had a great year last year, but right now Kovy leads the team in goals, assists, points, and shots on goal…take a few more fighting majors and maybe we can start calling him “gordie”. Anyways, back to hoss…6 points through 15 games…that’s less then a point every 2 games. I am a big hoss supporter, but nothing he’s done thus far makes me believe he will turn it around any time soon. Say we get through 30 games and he only has 12 points….how much is this slump hurting him? I think the most telling stat is that he’s -2. Yes, the team is struggling, but HE is struggling. Thoughts?
My second thing was about the goaltenders. With Pavs proving he can play with the big boys…what about trading kari or moose to pick up some more depth somewhere else. I’m sure there are teams around the league in need of the help at net. What do you think?
By B. Thenet
November 9, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this
The Greek God line might work, that name is so bad that it becomes good. I think Slater only qualifies because he is a MSU Spartan.
By GSU-Lee
November 9, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this
Like I have said before Craig, with you, it’s all about the Green and White.
By Craig Custance
November 9, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this
David - If the Thrashers are going to trade Hossa, it’ll most likely happen in February, not October. So I don’t think his play right now will hurt his value. I’d be shocked if he only has 12 points after 30 games.
Pavelec has made two starts NHL starts and two AHL starts. I think it’d be wise to hold off trading Kari or Moose until there’s a bigger sample size. But sure, let’s say Pavelec keeps this up and Kari proves he’s healthy come December or January and some team makes a good offer for Hedberg, I think you’d have to listen. But that’s just me talking.
By B. Thenet
November 9, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this
Go Blue(land)
By brian
November 9, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this
Craig - be careful about those guys from Buffalo, you may be referring to a neighbor, classmate, or some cousin twice removed…
By Brendan
November 9, 2007 4:59 PM | Link to this
Yeah, Carroll Rogers has done a good job. Now, let’s get the Cats tonight! Every game in the division is important.
By ranallo10
November 9, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this
Trading Lehtonen this season is not wise, no matter how you cut it.
If the team falters and is out of contention, Hedberg would be more valuable to any contender (he has a proven track record, clean bill of health, and expiring contract). Lehtonen will be a RFA at years end, and can will be locked up for at least one more year (unless any Clarke/Lowe offer happens which is beyond exorbitant). Lehtonen will thrive under the competition Pavelec would bring, which could help propel him to the level we all have hoped he could reach.
Lehtonen can still be this franchise’s goalie, and Pavelec’s presense (and continued stellar play) can only help.
Trading Lehtonen would be (as Rawhide puts it) “ungood” in my opinion.
(There is always the caveat of “depending on the talent gained from the trade”)
By Boulton's Bruisers
November 9, 2007 5:31 PM | Link to this
Trading Lehtonen this season is not wise, no matter how you cut it.
Trading Lehtonen would be (as Rawhide puts it) “ungood” in my opinion.
Ranallo—Would you still be saying that the next time Kari pulls his groin? History repeats itself, always..(Re: Damian Rhodes, Milan Hnilicka, Byron Dafoe).
It would be “unwise” to NOT shop Kari when he comes back.
By sisu
November 9, 2007 5:56 PM | Link to this
Trading Kari would be something Holik would love I am sure! But right now Kari = zero trade value…If DW was smart he would hire Pasi as a goalie coach!:)
By Tony C.
November 9, 2007 5:57 PM | Link to this
Why trade any of the goalies? This franchise is snake-bitten when it comes to goalie health…I would almost carry 3 on the NHL roster out of fear of the groin curse.
My questions for Holik: I would like to know who Big Bob (does he go by Bob?) thinks is the best Captain he’s played with. What does he try to emulate from that man?
Also, how does feel about playing with Slovaks? Is there any tension that he’s noticed between Czech players and Slovaks in the NHL?
Does he see himself re-signing here?
Who does he think is harder to play against: #17 or Bure back in the day (I realize he’s a teammate, but I bet #17 is still a handful in practice)?
Lastly, does this team, having such turnover really not like NYR? Who does he feel the team has the best rivalry with?
GO BLUE !!! #17 OWNS YOU
By Thrasher Ryan
November 9, 2007 6:10 PM | Link to this
CC—Any word on tonight’s scratches? Also, with the Giant in goal tonight, do you think the Moose starts against Carolina?
By Craig Custance
November 9, 2007 7:32 PM | Link to this
Same lineup as last game.
By Sara
November 9, 2007 7:39 PM | Link to this
Ranallo in actuality the fact that Kari is an RFA makes him VERY valuable, certainly more valuable than Hedberg who may or may not stick around. Unless some team literally just needs a vet fill-in due to a long-term injury to a goalie that will be back the next season, they are more likely to want the RFA.
It’s certainly too premature to talk about a trade of either one at this point. Kari needs to get his numbers up to have more market value and there is not enough evidence that Pavs can be the guy either. Kari went 4-0 in his first four NHL starts, but he’s been up and down ever since. Pavs still needs evaluation. But ultimately one or the other needs to be chosen as the go-to guy and the other traded because either one could bring us a very nice commodity, like a #1 center or #1/2 d-man - a young one even.
As for the nicknames, I like Pavs cause it’s easier than saying or typing Pavelec, or Ondrej the Giant even. Opie is easy too but I still prefer Pavs.
Anyway, face-off time. GO THRASHERS!!!
By Sara
November 9, 2007 8:03 PM | Link to this
Craig here’s a question for Holik - why oh why on the PP is he hanging between the two circles instead of just outside/inside the blue paint? In fact - you can ask the coach that question too. Crappy lax type of play putting out no real screen or pressure on the goalie.
By thefan
November 9, 2007 8:31 PM | Link to this
Trade Holik .he is worthless
By ToF
November 9, 2007 8:34 PM | Link to this
Would it be uncouth to campaign for Ondrej the Giant since it was my suggestion?
Also, ask Bobby what he thinks about his upcoming pay-cut.
By Darren
November 9, 2007 9:06 PM | Link to this
This Pavelec looks like a keeper, too.
So to speak.
By Brendan
November 9, 2007 9:28 PM | Link to this
Tonight, Denis Potvin (Florida commentator) has had very positive things to say about Little, Enstrom, Kovalchuk, and Pavelec. Though, seemingly, Florida’s entire broadcast crew simply cannot refrain from referring to Pavelec as the “20-year netminder.” His name is always immediately and invariably followed by his age. Also, they seem to think Pavelec “cannot move laterally” and is prone to rebounds. So far, neither is especially been prevalent.
RE: Lehtonen, for some reason, Potvin has TWICE said that Lehtonen is in the AHL on IR, and will have to fight to get back to the NHL. News to me.
Pavelec has been tremendous in this game. Even though he just lost the shutout. It’s 1-1 right now. Kozlov had our goal, with 15 seconds left in the 2nd period, from Holik and Perrin. Sabres are playing Toronto on the “NHL Channel,” if anyone was looking for that game. It’s not on Center Ice.
Thorburn just scored, from Popovic, off a great faceoff win. 2-1, Atlanta leads. 15:30 left.
By Brendan
November 9, 2007 9:39 PM | Link to this
Kovalchuk, on the PP, his 14th! From Hossa and Holik. 3-1, Thrashers. Atlanta is starting to take over.
By Brendan
November 9, 2007 9:50 PM | Link to this
I agree with all who has said “let’s not trade Lehtonen.” It’s too soon to quit on him. He’s 23-24. He’s still an RFA. And this injury situation will likely reduce the dollar value of his next contract. So why not re-sign him, at least as insurance for Pavelec? Geez, listen to me, Pavelec’s played four (4) games as a Thrasher and already I/we are thinking of him as the “future.”
Remember, this is a different groin injury than Lehtonen’s previous ones. This is also not related to “conditioning problems.” My concern with Kari has always been the mental aspect of his game. Now, Hartley played him to death, so that could have been a contributing factor. But, sometimes, even when well-rested, he seemed to lose focus. He’d give up rebounds on soft shots. He’s muff the puck on easy saves, resulting in a goal. That’s not physical fatigue. That’s purely mental.
Hossa scores on the PP!! 4-1, Thrashers. Kovy gets an assist.
By Brendan
November 9, 2007 10:01 PM | Link to this
It was great to see Thorburn and Hossa get into the scoring. The PP was clicking. Pavelec is getting more and more confident. Even Hossa got on the scoresheet. And so did Kozlov. Hossa and Kozlov couldn’t be found in the first six games of the season. Good job Waddell. And good McCrimmon.
By LAC
November 9, 2007 10:08 PM | Link to this
What a complete game…
Time to trade Kari, this guy is GOOD… That Good, he made saves Kari would not make and the glove save he made in the second period was unreal, just perfect… saved X’s butt on that one and THAT changed the game.
This kid has won the past two games by himself… yet another game with 36 shots… would be nice to lower that.
Holik… a decent move on the first goal… WHY can’t he do that game after game ???
By Sara
November 9, 2007 10:14 PM | Link to this
Wow - sooo many good things to say about tonight’s game. The PP scored twice, Hossa not only had a goal but a multi-point game, Kovy continues to dominate, and score one for the Greek Gods - GWG even! Holik made a great play to the net for the Kozzie goal and Pavs was outstanding.
As Brendan pointed out, the announcers really talked up our team. It’s nice to hear but it’d also be nice to have some of our rookies especially still skating under the radar so to speak. Prefer teams to figure out how good Enstrom, Little, and Pavs are once they’ve lowered the boom.
One other interesting thing that the FLA announcers mentioned was that there was apparently a good bit of interest in White around the league and in particular from the Panthers. I guess they had made an offer already but Waddell made a better one. And as they pointed out, it’s got to be a center’s dream job to skate between Kovy and Hoss.
Can’t wait for tomorrow night and the Canes. Definitely should be a good game!
By RS
November 9, 2007 10:30 PM | Link to this
Biggest advantage Pavelec will have starting out his NHL career over Lehtonen….he won’t have Bob Hartley messing with his head.
By d
November 9, 2007 10:40 PM | Link to this
Congrats to Pavelec & the team for tonights win. So, does DW start Pavelec tomorrow to measure his physical & mental toughness - or does Moose play? I’m assuming the Thrash do not get home until 2 a.m. - only 17 hours of rest must diminish the effectiveness of a goalie.
By Tony C.
November 9, 2007 11:02 PM | Link to this
I have to agree RS I mean, “Well when I had Patty Roy…” must have gotten old…
GO BLUE !!!
By Brian
November 9, 2007 11:16 PM | Link to this
thefan & ToF - I can’t believe it, but Holik was the 3rd star tonight, let’s hold off to see if he keeps it up.
d - I would go with Moose tomorrow, but let’s see how DW handles the goalies vs. BH.
Sara - I found the comments interesting too, and White does seem to be doing well with the top 2.
Too many other good things to mention about the game. Kovy, rookies, even the Greeks got a goal. Can’t believe this team just went 7-3 after starting 0-6. Bob kept on saying they were only going to have 5 good games after the coaching change (3-2 record for those games), but now they went 4-1 in the next 5 games to make for that 7-3 record since the change. Can’t wait for tomorrow’s game…
By Sara
November 9, 2007 11:38 PM | Link to this
Well Brian Bob has been conspicuously (sp?) less vocal lately..whoops?? LOL
By Craig Custance
November 9, 2007 11:44 PM | Link to this
So Moose or Ondrej the Giant for the showdown with Carolina? Don hadn’t decided when I asked him right after the game. What do you guys think?
It’s a tough one, and it’ll be easy to second guess (which I promise I’ll do) if the Thrashers lose. For me, I don’t know how you can sit Pavelec.
By Thrasher_Ed
November 9, 2007 11:57 PM | Link to this
Last! Hey gotta shoot in the funny comments when I can. Craig, I say Hebburg! He gave us some good starts against them last year and the kid needs a break. Plus I think Moose needs to get back in there. You’d have to be crazy not to want a 6”4” Jay Boumeester, Bradon Coburn, or Dion Phanuaf! Opps, we had Coburn, oh well no use crying over spilt milk.
By Jamie
November 9, 2007 11:59 PM | Link to this
Gotta be Pavs, he was real good tonight. Stick with the HOT HAND, Olli Jokinen knows what i’m talkin about.
By Bob
November 10, 2007 12:08 AM | Link to this
Bob has been conspicuously (sp?) less vocal lately..whoops?? LOL
Bob’s been out of country and has some mean jet lag workin’ but give me some cliff notes, like what’s up with this Mellanby deal?
Is this kid goalie for real, does he look good? I should have tonight’s game on Tivo but give me the skinny, is he for real, or what? 1 goal on 36 saves looks pretty good.
I see Hoss put up 2 pts, is he skating hard or still floating? Are we back, the standings look like parity galore. Is Waddell still coach? Did zilla propose on the jumbotron to a claymation Avery? Someone hook me up with some cliff notes up in this piece. Who’s been carrying the load, Moose?
By R. Stroz
November 10, 2007 12:41 AM | Link to this
Welcome back Bob.
1) The kid is for real. In the game against the Craps, Pavelec was standing on his head and that is an understatement.
2) Rat blasted management in an AJC article and said McCrimmon should be the new coach.
3) Kovy has emerged as a mature two way player, put the team on his back, and figured out an accurate wrister works better than a one timer.
4) Kovy and Hossa are starting to click on the same line.
5) The PP has player movement.
6) Waddell is still the official coach; but, McCrimmon is running the practices. You read between the lines on that one.
7) Buzilla traded his fiance for Ranallo’s signed J.P. Vigier jersey.
By stendec
November 10, 2007 1:11 AM | Link to this
FINALLY! I truly believe this new netminder is the guy to take the Thrashers to the next level. Hope I am correct. Kid always seems mentally sharp and focused. Not inclined to surrendering soft goals. Moose capable backup. Sorry KL. Perhaps stardom awaits you in another state. KEEP ROLLING BLUE!
By GSU-Lee
November 10, 2007 1:26 AM | Link to this
I am not a hockey coach and I won’t pretend to be, but if the team wins tomorrow night God knows what that will do for the team (and the Giant’s if he starts) confidence. At the same time, this will be the team’s biggest challenge to date, Carolina is flat out good. I would start Ondrej, he is just playing too good right now. I think of you do that though, win or lose, you have to give him a rest on Tuesday.
By Keith Waldrop
November 10, 2007 2:16 AM | Link to this
Who would’ve thought this team could pull off a division sweep, but tomorrow night is a chance at just that.
A win tomorrow night is monumental. It’ll be play-off intensity.
By Bob
November 10, 2007 10:22 AM | Link to this
Sweet, thanks for the updates, Stroz. That’s great to hear about Pavelec. What’s the word on Lehtonen, how long will he be out? I wonder what’ll happen when he’s ready to come back.
So Kovy and Hoss are the same line now, excellent. Who’s their center, White?
So is Mellanby mad that they won’t make McCrimmon the official coach, or did Mellanby want the job? That’s interesting, it seemed like Mellanby was a Waddell guy, mabye not?
By raindawg722
November 10, 2007 10:33 AM | Link to this
Not to rain on the parade or take anything away from Pavelec’s great start, but I seem to recall that Lehthonen was lights out for a couple of games at the beginning of last season as well. Both these guys apparently have the requisite physical tools to do the job. Kari apparently needs some work on the mental aspect of the game. With Pavelec, it’s a little too early to tell in that regard. Mental toughness is something that you have to demonstrate over the course of the season.
By Sage of Bluesland
November 10, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this
Pavelec is the goalie we’ve been waiting for during the past decade—finally.
The glass-groined wunderbust with the silly blue hair and the punk attitude? Yep, Don, I’m glad we took him instead of Rick Nash (who I wanted and Florida would thus have not moved out of the top spot for those getting ready to say ‘Nash went first’…Read the history of the deal, please).
Get brilliant Don out of the GM’s office and keep him on the bench. He’s doing quite nicely there…
By Brendan
November 10, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this
In Lehtonen’s first four (4) games as a Thrasher, he went 4-0-0, with a 1.25 GAA, and two shutouts, against three divisional opponents.
By kracker
November 10, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this
I prob go w/ Moose tonight….just because it’s Opie’s first pro year and he’s played in a total of 6 pro games, 5 as a starter, and the first two were in a Wolves sweater. It’s back-to-back games tonight so it’s the perfect time to sit Opie w/o messing with his head at all. Deal with Tuesday’s starter based on Moose’s play tonight.
Waddell gets second-guessed either way if we lose but that’s why he getting the big bucks, twice. Anybody wanna bet he’s not getting an extra paycheck as bench boss? Make the right call, DW.
By sisu
November 10, 2007 1:01 PM | Link to this
For those of you that have forgotten…Kari started 4 - 0 with a shutout in the beginning. While it is great to have Pavelic don’t trade away your key assets… Holik finally showed up for a game, maybe he will get going now?
By ranallo10
November 10, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this
Welcome back Bob, where did you did you go?
Sara — I realize Lehtonen’s contract is MORE palatable to any trading partners, but his groin is LESS palatable (even though it’s a different injury than the first time). Not every trade during the deadline is a blockbuster, and I could see someone being interested in Hedberg because of his experience before they’re interested in a 24 year old goalie with two groin injuries in the last three seasons.
However, my main point was that it’s not smart to trade Lehtonen, period. As Tony C said, this franchise has too horrible of a track record with goalies, why would we get rid of the second goalie to ever shine in the ATL spotlight (first would be Nurminen, in my opinion — yes, I’m discounting Hnlicka).
See you all at tonight’s game.
By ranallo10
November 10, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this
where did you did you go?
Nice st-st-stutter I had there.
By R. Stroz
November 10, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this
ranallo - Where are you sitting?
By Brian
November 10, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this
Sara - Bob’s been out of country and has some mean jet lag workin’ but give me some cliff notes, like what’s up with this Mellanby deal? Don’t you like how his international flight landed and he posts only a 1/2 hour after you made your comment. Sage is still bitter though. Even though we have all these rookies and free agents doing well, he still refers to our GM as Brilliant Don…
By Thrashers27
November 10, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this
PASI, PASI, PASI!!!
Seeing OP flop around on the ice, snatching pucks out of the air reminds me of good ole Pasi. This kid definitely has more natural talent than Nurmi though. We’ll soon see if he has the same sized heart.
I start the kid tonight. If he is successful it goes a long way for his confidence. Moose starts next game though.
LET’S GO THRASHERS!!!
By Craig Custance
November 10, 2007 6:35 PM | Link to this
Looks like it’ll be Pavelec tonight, and Mac in for Exelby whose ankle is bothering him again.
By B. Thenet
November 10, 2007 9:46 PM | Link to this
Pavelec looked like he needed a rest. He was the difference tonight.
By stendec
November 10, 2007 10:27 PM | Link to this
HELL! Three soft goals out of five. Hope the kid got them out of his system. Thrasher defense resembled Auburn’s. None to be found! Truly sad. Pitful home non-effort!
By stendec
November 10, 2007 10:42 PM | Link to this
Support Thrashers. They still lack required refuse-to-lose attitude that true champions possess. REFUSE TO LOSE! BREATH FIRE! Protect home ice. Home defeats should be far and few between! True champions feared on home ice. NOT THRASHERS! Total collapses not appreciated! NO MATTER WHO RIVAL HAPPENS TO BE!
By Brendan
November 11, 2007 12:27 AM | Link to this
Atlanta had chances to win this game. The two Hossa breakaways come immediately to mind. But some of the bad tendencies returned, like “late” goals to end a period and giving up PP goals. Also, Kovy and White had some very good chances too. As did Holik. Was McCarthy a + or a - tonight? I didn’t check the box scores.
Personally, I’d say Cam Ward was the difference in this game. He stood on his head. And maybe Pavelec should have been rested? He started giving up too many rebounds. That fifth Hurricanes goal was such a backbreaker. All in all, this wasn’t a horrendous game. But, it was a four-point swing. Atlanta led, 2-1. It would have been nice to at least come away with a point to soften the blow. The Thrashers had a great 1st period, except for the closing seconds where they surrendered the goal.
We’re still 7-4-0 since the coaching change, and there’s no doubt that we’re playing better hockey, even in our losses. Aren’t we 3-1-0 during this divisional stretch so far? When we were 0-6-0, I’d have jumped up and down for that.
The Carolina broadcast crew didn’t slaughter us. The harshest thing they said was that Lehtonen continues to struggle as a #1 goaltender, with a recurring groin problem. But they later clarified that it was a different groin injury. Let’s not forget something else, here. Pavelec is only 20-years old. This is supposed to be his AHL year, where he gets some “seasoning.” Instead, he’s been thrust into the NHL ahead of schedule. The good news is … he has performed admirably. But he’s still growing in his professional development. Pavelec is going to be a great goaltender, and may go down as Waddell’s best-ever 2nd round draft pick.
By Brian
November 11, 2007 1:17 AM | Link to this
I don’t know if Ondrej was tired or not, but I still say a 20 year old can play back-to-back. However, as I stated before the game, I still would have given it to Moose myself. He has been ready, but at least we can battle test Ondrej and see how he would do in back-to-back games…
Some good things - Hossa has 7 pts in the last 5 games & Kozzy has a point in 7 straight games now. These guys are coming out of their slumps. Perrin (6 pts in last 6 games) & White (3 pts in last 4 games) each had points again.
What is getting me is Zhitnik in his limited role. McCarthy didn’t look so bad tonight. When X comes back, do you sit Zhitnik instead of Mac???
By LAC
November 11, 2007 6:01 AM | Link to this
Tough to take,but Carolina CLEARLY was the better team and their siginings show their GM knows talent and ours does NOT…
Our D needs to be completely rebuilt… Zit looked old last night Mac out of position quite abit and Klee… oh well…
But Carolina got a number of LUCKY bounces too… we should have had three more go in, just tough to watch them handle us like that.
We still need a top center and vet Dman and soon…really soon would be nice !
By Tom
November 11, 2007 10:30 AM | Link to this
This game is one I am not upset that we lost. When you run into a hot goaltender it is very hard to win and Cam Ward was outstanding last night. He made 10-12 amazing saves in the last period and kept Carolina in the game.
The one that comes to mind was the save he made on Popovich on a tough shot between the legs of the defenseman with the glove. Popovich came in and tapped Ward on the leg congratulating him. The save was that good.
So Carolina beat us with a hot goaltender. They knew the difference was Ward and that we outplayed them in the 3rd period. That is a huge improvement over the last time we saw them.
By Brendan
November 11, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this
Isn’t Carolina something 2nd in the Eastern Conference? They’re up there, anyway. And they more closely resemble the version of their squad that won the 2006 Cup than the one that faltered badly enough to miss the playoffs last year.
So, while I don’t like losses, losing to one of the best teams in the Conference, in a very competitive game, where … essentially … their goaltender stole it … I don’t feel so bad about. Okayyyyy, Rod Brind’Amour played pretty well, too. Hossa, Kozlov, Kovy, White, Perrin, Popovic, Enstrom … all had good games. I think Havelid is still stuggling, however. Zhitnik’s luster is fading. Enstrom is becoming our #1 defenseman, and he was an 8th round pick (like Exelby). Enstrom’s strength is that he tends to find the puck first, control it, and skate it out or pass it successfully out of our zone. That’s a great strength to have as a defenseman. Every GM is looking for heady, puck-moving blueliners. And he’s great on the power play.
It does, however, make me think about how we had Staios, Pothier and Kaberle. But they all managed to wind up elsewhere. Bygones.
By Thrashers27
November 11, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this
Last night’s officials were awful!!!
Anyone else notice the hold on Hossa in the Thrashers zone just as Carolina scored their second goal? The ref was standing right there! I saw it from home and he somehow misses it when he is ten feet away?!?!
Well, any way you slice I’m happy with the effort from our boys in blue. Still room to improve, but they played stride for stride with one of the best teams in the NHL.
GO BLUE!!!
By Brian
November 11, 2007 6:51 PM | Link to this
Brendan - not only is Carolina 2nd in the Eastern Conference, they are also 1 of 2 teams to beat Ottawa this year…
By Midfield
November 11, 2007 8:45 PM | Link to this
Bad officiating; bad defence: Havelid losing players he is supposed to mark, Zhitnik is too slow to keep up with his; Ward stealing a few when it really counted; Kovy looking a bit sloppy, although still very threatening; Hossa looking much better, but still lacking confidence; team overall is too soft when XLB is not dressed.
By Midfield
November 11, 2007 8:49 PM | Link to this
One more thing: Thrashers were outcoached. Up and down skating is not a good strategy for the second back-to-back game.
By Brian
November 11, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this
Midfield - good point on the back-to-back games, I was thinking of it in line with Pavelec playing both and whether he would be tired, and I originally wanted Moose. But someone else brought the point up that players (all players, not just the goalie) getting worn out in back-to-backs in Nov should be a non-issue. These are “local” games so to say, not 2 games in 2 nights on a west coast trip. Back-to-backs in late Feb or Mar on the other hand, well now our point is more valid…
By Sara
November 11, 2007 11:37 PM | Link to this
Hey Craig how about a Rucchin update - haven’t seen a status check on him in a while. For you or anyone, at what point (if any) can he be considered a long-term injury that doesn’t count against the cap figure?
By R. Stroz
November 12, 2007 1:08 AM | Link to this
I think I’ve thought of a way to get Zhitnik back in shape and increase his speed.
Does anyone remember that “goofy” camera that Dallas had which went around the top of the plexiglass last year?
Well, if you do, here is the Zhitnik cure.
First, install “goofy” rail cam assembly minus the camera.
Second, affix an attachement on the rail reaching one foot out toward the ice surface.
Third, attach a twinkie on the end of the attachment protruding form the rail cam assembly.
Fourth, turn on the rail cam and tell Zhitnik to catch the twinkie.
Fifth, at certain intervals slow the rail cam down so Zhitnik will jump up for the twinkie. In this way, maybe, Zhitnik could get a little more jump in his step.
By stendec
November 12, 2007 1:46 AM | Link to this
Hi Craig - ABOUT GOALIE CONTROVERY (Sure it will come as no surprise): Keep the Kid. Keep Moose. Deal KL if anyone wants him and his paper mache groin. The Kid seems to be the type to take the Thrashers to the next level (despite lesser effort last time out). Moose is a dependable backup. Shatter the Kid’s confidence by catering to an injury-prone immature daydreamer then go watch Falcons. The Thrashers will be toast! This is a decision management simply CANNOT afford to bungle! Future Stanley Cups may depend on it. Do not scoff. I am dead serious! Be well fellow Thrasher watchers. GO BLUE!
By Midfield
November 12, 2007 8:08 AM | Link to this
Brian,
RE back-to-back games: it’s not an issue as something to complain about. But on the night like that trying to outskate an up-tempo team such as Carloina is a stupid idea. That’s just my opinion. This is where Thrashers’ lack of size really hurts, by the way.
By FormerIslesFan
November 12, 2007 9:25 AM | Link to this
Some thoughts on the Hurricanes game.
Ward stole this game. Sitting up in the ‘Nest, you just saw him flash glove after glove and shoot out legs on shots that you thought were definately in (Hossa’s chances for the hat trick come to mind).
The Thrashers have GOT to play a complete 20 minute period. The ‘canes goal at the end of the first period took the wind out of the crowd and seemed to swing the momentum somewhat. If not for Ward (and that late goal) the Thrashers should have been up 2-0 or 3-0 at the end of 1.
Loved Perrin’s effort. Not just the goal, but the overall game. I thought he was easily the best Thrasher on the ice Saturday.
Speaking of Perrin, does anyone else wonder how the refs did not call the high stick that clipped Perrin in the face?
Exelby’s presence was missed. At one point, my g/f commented to me on the “lack of hitting” that was going on and there were no solid checks that got (kept) the crowd in the game.
By ranallo10
November 12, 2007 10:22 AM | Link to this
Three words for anybody wondering why something was not called in the Carolina game…
Michael “Mick” McGeough
He’s absolutely horrible…and no, I didn’t make this website.
He was standing near Perrin when he got hit in the face, called nothing and skated away. He was standing next to Hossa when he was held along the boards, called nothing and skated away. He’s worse than JP Vigier.
By Midfield
November 12, 2007 10:38 AM | Link to this
Thanks for the link, ranallo10. I think, I feel a little better now.
By ranallo10
November 12, 2007 10:40 AM | Link to this
Ward won the game for the Hurricanes, it’s that simple. He stoned Hossa twice on ONE breakaway, then once again 5 minutes later.
Defensive lapses happen (2nd goal), desperation and bad luck happen (5th goal), but you cannot overcome a goalie with a hot glove hand and a superior defense.
I told my friend after the first goal that we were lucky to take advantage of Carolina so quickly, because the game would only get harder. To beat the superior teams you need to catch them when they’re at their worst, which Atlanta did at first. But a better team with a goalie standing on his head ultimately emerged victorious.
It’s a tough loss, but it’s not the end of the world for me. Forget it quickly, and on to the next one (Florida, tomorrow).
By Hockeyfan
November 12, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this
Craig was it your mistake or your editor’s mistake claiming we had Nick Lidstrom? Go look at the article on Waddell visiting double duty GM.
By Bob
November 12, 2007 12:06 PM | Link to this
Mr. McGoo is an abomination to profession of officiating hockey games. He was a buffoon, once again on Saturday.
I thought our guys played pretty well, and just ran of gas being the team that was playing the 2nd night a row. No shame in getting beat by the Canes, they are playing well this year.
What is up with Pavelec and the flopping? Did he play like that in all his starts? I saw him lunge with his noggin at one shot. It’s good for him to get some time in here, but when Kari is ready, I’d think it’s time for him to go down for more seasoning, no?
By Hockeyfan
November 12, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this
Speaking of McGoo…. Hey Craig how much was McGoo fined last year?
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November 22, 2007 10:57 PM | Link to this
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