AJC > Sports > Thrashers > Blog > Archives > 2007 > December > 07 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.US70 for Kovy?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Let’s start with a clarification. Dan Wood with the Orange County Register is on top of things in the Scott Niedermayer case and, in an e-mail, broke down the salary cap ramifications of Niedermayer’s return. There’s a a term called “tagging” that Dan attempted to explain, and it’s part of the new complex CBA. Quite honestly, I couldn’t make sense of it, but the bottom line is this: The Ducks are okay this season with the salary cap and would have to clear about $1 million from next year’s budget.
As Brian Burke told Dan, “We will have to move contractual obligations for next year.” That said, Wood also pointed out that the Ducks are interested in clearing more salary than that to re-sign Corey Perry to prevent somebody from signing Perry to an offer sheet. So moving a guy like Mathieu Schneider, like we talked about yesterday, could still be a possibility even though it’s not necessary.
But you guys seemed lukewarm to the idea, and that’s fair enough. He isn’t young, and if you couldn’t ship Alexei Zhitnik as part of the deal, that would leave the Thrashers with three older defensemen under contract for next season in Klee, Z and Schneider. The best point was made by Jarndyce, who said what the power play would lack under the scenario I presented is a true pivot. Good point.
We know the goalie rotation right now — Johan Hedberg tonight and Kari Lehtonen against the Caps in DC. So do you like it? I know a few of you shared your opinion yesterday, but you had to split up the back-to-back games anyways, so I have no issues with it. I would think the starting goalie would get the home start, but it’s looking like this is more of a 1 and 1a instead of a starter and backup.
As we sit here right now, Ilya Kovalchuk is on pace for 70 goals. It’s been quite awhile since that’s been done (since 92-93 season) but do you think he can do it? I asked around the Thrashers lockerroom this morning, if players thought it was going to happen. My new favorite corner is the Eric Boulton - Eric Perrin and Chris Thorburn corner of the room, so I presented it to them. I asked Perrin, and Boulton piped in, saying basically ‘good luck answering that. If you say yes you jinx him, if you say no, you’re saying no.’ So Perrin thought about it a moment and said “If anybody can do it, it’s Kovy.” Thorburn refused to talk about it altogether. So what would you put the odds at — How about this, I’ll set the over/under at 64 goals. You going over or under?
Word around the rink was that the Rangers are starting Steve Valiquette tonight, although I didn’t stick around for Tom Renney’s press conference to hear it from him. If Valiquette goes, he’s 1-0-1 with a 2.42 GAA this season in three games this year with the Rangers.
Comments
By AL
December 7, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this
First? Never in a million years!
By Alan
December 7, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this
I think Kovy will go over 55 goals this season. Not sure if he’ll hit 70, though.
BTW, Craig, I liked your piece in The Sporting News.
By AL
December 7, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this
Kovy can hit 80 if guys dish the puck to him often enough! There, I said it! as far as the o/u goes… I’ll take the over.
By Craig Custance
December 7, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this
Alan - Thanks
By Sara
December 7, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this
Actually the salary thing makes a lot of sense - I came across it when looking at contract extension stuff. Basically the assumption is that the cap will be the same amount for the next season. So if you sign a player to a contract this season - be it an FA pick-up, a trade, or a contract extension - it still has to be able to fit under the cap for the next year. If Neids had tried to come back to start the season, the Ducks would have gone over the cap paying his entire salary. Since he’s coming in at a pro-rated salary, it will work out. But starting next season will be the same problem based on the salary structure the team has, because his whole salary will count.
By d
December 7, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this
I like the rotation for three reasons:
a) Too much mental scar tissue for KL vs. the Rangers - although we must come to grip with this someday.
b) KL appears to injury prone - a Brodeur workload does not appear to be suitable.
c) Perhaps KL will focus better knowing that Moose is more than capable as a replacement.
By ranallo10
December 7, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this
Goalie Rotation — I think you’re right Craig, they had to be split up so why does it matter how?
Sara — That is how I understand it…if you bring in a person you are required to allow for cap space the following season. The interesting twist (in my opinion) is that Niedermayer has said he’s only back for this year, and Burke said he’s not doing the wait and see approach regarding retirement next season. So Burke is getting rid of salary space to clear this move for the “tagging” purposes, but unfortunately (for him) the salary he moves would likely fit into the cap once Niedermayer is off the books (officially retired).
This is why I love hockey, the complexities of allowing a player worth $7M return to the ice…in baseball he’d just get in shape and play. In basketball he’d be allowed on the court immediately. In football he’d be playing immediately too. But in hockey the team is held accountable beyond the current year, which is a benefit (in my mind) of the salary cap system.
So, now that Niedermayer is back everyone is assuming Selanne is to follow. I wonder how that will affect the person(s) they decide to move to free space. Maybe moving Schneider makes MORE sense. Word on the street is that Burke has said any defenseman not named Pronger or Niedermayer is available…so I’ll continue to dream about Beauchemin.
By Jsmooth
December 7, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this
Craig — Any lineup changes for tonight such as a return to the 3rd line for Larsen? Not sure who you drop but I wouldn’t mind seeing Kozzy back on the 2nd line with Perrin / Little. I like Haydar but we’re going to need a little extra grit in the lineup against NY.
By Alan
December 7, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this
ranallo10 - Very interesting rumour regarding Burke and the defensemen availability. Who do you think Atlanta should get rid of (minors, waivers, etc)?
By Sara
December 7, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this
ranallo I’m a little surprised by the technicality as well. I mean, what’s it matter if technically you’ll be over next season. That’s the GMs job to get below the cap by the start of the next season. If he paints himself into a hole, well that’s his problem and the team will face the consequences. shrugs Not sure I really get the point of that stipulation.
By Alan
December 7, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this
Sorry, that unfinished question is what happens when you’re working and thinking hockey at the same time.
Should Anaheim and Atlanta strike a deal for someone (say, for instance, Beauchemin), who do you think Atlanta should get rid of? Also, for Beauchemin, who or what would you give Anaheim in return?
By Craig Custance
December 7, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this
Jsmooth — No lineup changes other than the goalie.
By ranallo10
December 7, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this
Sara — I guess it’s so that the teams don’t stock up on the Jeff O’Neill’s and Anson Carter’s out there who don’t have an NHL contract but could help any team come playoff time.
I don’t mind the added twist teams have to maneuver around, it seems to force them to exercise caution when using their entire salary cap. Burke painted himself into the current corner he’s in, so let’s see him wiggle out (anybody want to take a wager on Burke having an idea that doesn’t include “tagging”, to rectify his current situation for future instances?).
Alan — Besides the obvious young talent (Enstrom, Little, Pavelec) I think Sterling and Oysterik are the two names that jump out at me. I’d hate to lose Sterling (I have high hopes for him, similar to the career St. Louis has had), but could deal with losing Oysterik (unimpressive during training camp, is getting older for a prospect). I think both would be valuable commodities for any franchise, and could easily be moved in a deal bringing in a solid defenseman or center.
Honestly though, I don’t think we (Atlanta) have what it would take to get Beauchemin.
By Bob
December 7, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this
It’s great to see Waddell (or mabye it’s the real Coach, The Beast) making the smart decisions on the goalie rotation. If there’s one thing Lehtonen has proven, is that he needs to be kept mentally sharp and he breaks down, mentally and physically when overplayed. I hope they keep the rotation up all year, I’d like to see Moose start every 5th or 6th game or so.
I’ll take the under on 64 goals, but I’d like to double down and pick him for the Hart if this club makes the playoffs.
We need to beat the Blue Shirts this evening. Exorcise some demons and all that.
By Jsmooth
December 7, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this
Thanks Craig!
Francois Beauchemin (one of the better names in hockey) would be quite the acquisition IMHO. How about Stevie Mac and Pascal Dupuis for the Ducks defensemen.
Don’t get me wrong, I love Pascal “you, me and” Dupuis, but we’ve got to be realistic in our thinking. The Ducks will want at least ONE player with potential. His speed certainly makes him a better commodity than say Slater, Larsen, Boulton etc.
Or how about this: Stevie Mac, Dupuis and Kozlov to the Ducks for Beauchemin, Schneider and either a prospect or high round pick in this year’s draft?
Bolster that blueline with those two and you have this:
Enstrom / Havelid Beauchemin / Schneider Exelby / Klee & Z (alternating to rest weary, aged legs)
By Jsmooth
December 7, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this
W/r/t Kovy’s goal total, I’ll take the under (I would love to be wrong on this one), but pencil me in for 58 goals for young Ilya. Oh and two more hat-tricks at some point.
Hossa with 39 tallies and Charmin pots 21 as long as the line stays intact all year. I’d say 1.4 goals a game sounds about right for our line of prolific goal prowess.
By Jarndyce
December 7, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this
Under 64. Kovy won’t hit 70 this year, but put me down for him nearing 80 in the 2009-2010 season. Imagine this: Kovy isn’t anywhere near his athletic peak yet. Give the kid a couple of years for his experience and form to catch up to his skills and instincts. Holy cats!
By ranallo10
December 7, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this
Jsmooth — It wouldn’t happen.
Schneider and Beauchemin don’t both need to be moved, nor would they be moved for a crappy return. They could command much more from other teams out there (like Chicago) than a #7 defender, a checking line winger, and an aged veteran winger (who also has a no-trade clause).
By Buzilla Baby Blues
December 7, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this
VIDEO TONIGHT
Keep an eye out folks for Rone and I’s award winning FILM…It’s art really.
Most likely to be shown in between periods so try not to pee
Too bad Avery won’t be here to see his clamation likeness killed in front of a sell out crowd.
wanna know what the hell I am talking about?
http://thrashers.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NHLPage&id=18007
By BAF
December 7, 2007 4:18 PM | Link to this
Put me down for an under. I see somewhere between 55-60. If we get another playmaker that can feed him better opportunities, then I would say 70 is possible.
By Russ
December 7, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this
I don’t really have a guess for how many goals Kovy will get, but I would like to see him get enough to win the Richard Trophy. I know individual honors aren’t as important as team accomplishments, but it would be a nice reward since Kovy carried this team single-handedly early in the season and seemed to be the only one who gave a crap while Hartley was still coach. GO THRASHERS!!!!!
By Bob
December 7, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this
Yeah, but are they gonna bleep out the burp, inquiring minds wanna know? I haveta pee by the end of the period, you’re gonna have to fill me in on that one.
Rone, I’ll buy shots at Jocks and Jills if you call Hollweg a mouth breathin’ caveman on his way in the tunnel
By Waffleboy
December 7, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this
If Kovy stays healthy, he’ll approach 70, so I’m taking the over. He’s game has reached another level this year, and I don’t see him letting up, even when he does hit a slump. Plus, this team will probably need every goal he scores to make the playoffs this year, and that’s motivation enough for Kovy. Last year’s short playoff run had a huge impact on him and I know he wants to prove this team belongs in the playoffs consistently. There are thirty games after the All-Star break. I say he gets a goal a game over that span.
By Waffleboy
December 7, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this
Oh yeah… vote for Kovy!
By Tony C.
December 7, 2007 5:39 PM | Link to this
I’ll take the over if #17 misses 5 games or less this season.
I would’ve started KL against NYR, Moose against A-O and the Craps.
GO BLUE !!! #17 OWNS YOU
By kracker
December 7, 2007 6:17 PM | Link to this
70 for Kovy? Sure, why not? It will likely mean the team is playing pretty well for the year. If the 70 helps the team attain a nice playoff position, then great, go for it. If Ilya scores 75 goals and the team fails to make the playoffs or even squeaks in the last game or two (or we get swept again), well, I don’t think Ilya will be too happy with all the goals.
By Roswell Thrasherfan
December 7, 2007 7:26 PM | Link to this
Craig, great piece in the Sporting News. We sure are lucky to have Waddell take over as coach. He has done an excellent job. Although I was really pining for some coverage on Enstrom in the national publication. Hopefully Kovy will get some more votes out of it to, I think he passed Ovechkin in the totals
By Brendan
December 7, 2007 7:41 PM | Link to this
Under 64 for Kovalchuk. My guess is … “62.” And yes, enough to win the Rocket Richard Goals Scoring Trophy.
By LAC
December 7, 2007 8:21 PM | Link to this
We have only 6 shots on goal in period 1.
We HAVE to get some better forwards… This is happening every game…
By Alan
December 7, 2007 10:10 PM | Link to this
I didn’t see it, but I heard it on the radio. Sounded like ATL had a sweet win there at the end with the empty net goal.
By kracker
December 7, 2007 10:32 PM | Link to this
Wooohooo!!! We get 2 pts to move up in the conference…two spots? We stay ahead of the Panthers, we jump past the Bolts & Isles.
OK tomorrow, the Thrash break the 30 point level in DC and get 31 points by moving 2 games over .500…..you read it here first :)
By Tony C.
December 7, 2007 10:37 PM | Link to this
Nice win, couple of questionable calls, but where Le Thrash of October would’ve let those calls cast doom on them, this team found a way to win! Good news. Was nice to get the regulation win, and Slava-Matic’s game-winner was a truly sweet shot.
GO BLUE !!!
P.S. VOTE
By Brian
December 7, 2007 10:39 PM | Link to this
I think our forwards did great tonight. Sure, I’d love to see Kovy get a hat trick every night. But isn’t it nice that when he can’t find the back of the net, we get 2 goals from the 4th line and the game winner from the 3rd line? It’s amazing on a night like this people whine about the forwards.
By kracker
December 7, 2007 10:43 PM | Link to this
Sweet enough Alan. We played well enough to beat a team that played last night and traveled. Although Kovy flat had Valiquette beaten a couple of times and the shots find him…and Hossa had a goal flat taken away on that ridiculously quick whistle (I wanted to investigate that ref, like that NBA gambling & mafia connected referee) but we got it done with skating at the end. I think the guys got energized by the crowd booing about the disallowed goal at about 7+ minutes to go in the 3rd period.
By jcwhitingjr
December 8, 2007 12:31 AM | Link to this
The General, Craig?
What’s up with that? :)
By Brendan
December 8, 2007 12:34 AM | Link to this
LAC, I think the Rangers outshot the Thrashers 32-22. But honestly, and someone look into this, we have a lot of wins where we got outshot. It’s not a good trend, really. But it’s hard to argue with results. Since Waddell took over, the Thrashers are 14-7-1, for a .659 clip. Folks, that’s almost two-thirds of the available points in 22 games.
I do wonder what Bob Hartley is thinking right about now. Up next? The Capitals! Ovechkin vs. Kovalchuk. Semin vs. Kozlov. Remember, Kovy especially likes to show up #8 for Washington whenever possible. Kari Lehtonen will start. I’m not sure if Kolzig will start for Washington. Truthfully, Brent Johnson plays very well against the Thrashers. Kolzig did play tonight vs. Brodeur. So, we may, indeed, see Johnson.
By Brendan
December 8, 2007 12:48 AM | Link to this
Craig, “On the Fly” analyst Dave Reid advanced the notion that Brian Burke (Anaheim’s GM) may have Shane Hnidy as the “odd man out” in Anaheim. Reid also reaffirmed the rumor that Burke may prefer to move Schneider and keep DiPenta and Hnidy, Beauchemin and Pronger, now that Niedermayer is back.
Shane Hnidy wound up playing 1st pairing minutes down the stretch of the season for Atlanta, after beginning the season in the Thrashers’ pressbox. From your dealings with him, Craig, do you think Hnidy would be averse to returning to Atlanta?
Mark Popovic is a former Anaheim draft pick. Perhaps they’d want him back? I don’t think any deal between Anaheim and Atlanta is cooking, but … you never know. I wouldn’t mind have Hnidy back. But I don’t want to lose young Popovic, even if Schneider were the return. In the longrun, we need to keep our young players and stop paying for yesteryear’s all-stars, at their over-inflated salaries.
If I were Burke, I’d look at Atlanta’s history of doing just that and think I could “dump” in this market. But Schneider is not only on the back 9, he’s putting on the 17th green. Short-term gain, long-term loss. It’s not easy to move $5 million type guys, in their late-30’s. Let’s see how Brian Burke does and make a note of it, if he pulls it off.
Who knows? He put Bryzgalov on waivers, with raised eyebrows. Maybe he’d do the same with Schneider?
By Bob
December 8, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this
TSN is reporting we picked up Recchi-ball off waivers
I’m kinda shocked and it reeks of desperation. Of course we are lacking for top line forwards.
By Chris
December 8, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this
Thrashers pick up Recchi off waivers. Whadya think? Does Haydar get sent down?
By Alan
December 8, 2007 12:54 PM | Link to this
I’m hoping Zhit gets put on waivers. McCarthy showed a little promise last night, but it’s too little too late, I think.
By stendec
December 8, 2007 1:08 PM | Link to this
Hi Craig. Did not witness game last night. RATS! Proud Thrashers got victory. Extremely proud Moose only surrendered two goals. Can KL equal or surpass tonight? Maybe. Needed two straight-up points. Only made sweeter by fact it came against Ranjerks! Oh well. Best to all Thrasher watchers. GO BLUE!
By Brendan
December 8, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this
It might be McCarthy who is put on waivers? Hopefully, no one claims him and he can play in Chicago. And if we have to recall him at some point, hopefully he’ll clear waivers again. McCarthy’s salary and Recchi’s, prorated at half-price, are about a “wash.”
By Thrashers27
December 8, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this
Good looking team effort last night boys! Keep it up against the Caps tonight.
I think Recchi is a good pick-up. Throw him on a line with Holik and Kozzie. I’m anxious to see what he can provide.
LET’S GO THRASHERS!!!!!
By Brendan
December 8, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this
I like the move to claim Recchi at half-price, prorated by 2/3’s. His salary is about a “wash” with McCarthy’s. Maybe it will be McCarthy who gets re-assigned to Chicago, assuming he clears waivers.
I think Recchi will try really for Atlanta. He wants to remain in the NHL. This team has as good a shot of making the playoffs as anyone between #5 and #13 in the Eastern Conference.
What line do you see Recchi on? I’m sure he’s want to play with either Kovalchuk or Hossa. But playing with Kozlov might not be too bad, either. Maybe Recchi could spark Bobby Holik’s line?
By Brendan
December 8, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this
Chris, I think Haydar will stay. But who knows? I think someone would claim Haydar if we left him unprotected. This guy was the AHL MVP and leading scorer, I think, a season ago.
My feeling is … McCarthy’s the odd-man out. Unless we’re all shocked by Slater re-assignment. But, I don’t think that’ll happen.
By btr
December 8, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this
Well, Mark Recchi, We need this guy like another 6 month’s of NO RAIN.
Why does this team almost always make the STUPID move ?
This guy is one of the OLDEST players in the NHL, he is NOT the answer… I would have Sterling back long before this STUPID move.
Just ANOTHER example of waddell’s inability to do his GM job correctly He seems to be a good coach, let’s strip him of GM duties once and for all !
This was just TOO Dumb to believe !!!!!
By Kaladonis
December 8, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this
I really have to agree that this is a low risk gamble. As an old (not now) Flyers fan, I would love to see him do well again, but if he doesn’t work out, we can just put him on waivers again.
By Thrashers27
December 8, 2007 3:47 PM | Link to this
What are you talking about btr?
We got the Recchi on the cheap.$850,000…Big whoop! The guy scored 68 points last year. Nothing to sneeze at. This guy will improve the team. “Believe in Recchi!”
Go Blue!!!
By thrashfan
December 8, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this
seems like a relatively low risk gamble to me…sure he is old but he has averaged 26 goals the last two seasons in the ‘new’ nhl, basically the same as kozy…maybe he can help get the pp going if nothing else….how many times can you grab an nhl roster player without giving up an asset in return and pay him just over a half mill….if it doesn’t work out the only thing the team has lost is some money
By Alan
December 8, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this
I like the idea of more veteran leadership in the locker room. Might be something this team needs. Sure, we have a few other players on this team that certainly isn’t a spring chicken by any means, but I don’t see any of them even trying to provide leadership.
Recchi will prove to be an asset to this team. and at the little more than $600k we’ll be paying him, it’s a very low risk deal. I’d love to see our power play come together a whole lot better than it was on Wednesday. 0 for 9 is unacceptable. We should have put the puck in the net at least three times vs the Islanders.
By Brian
December 8, 2007 6:00 PM | Link to this
Other than moaning about Don Waddell which is what btr and some others would do no matter what, how can you find anything wrong with this? We gave up ZERO draft picks, ZERO prospects, and it wasn’t a trade. We may not even put the guy on the team, maybe this is a wakeup call to the 2nd line that the Coach/GM is looking over their should and will replace them if they don’t produce.
By GSU-Lee
December 8, 2007 6:08 PM | Link to this
jcwhitingjr, Bob Hartley dubbed Craig “the general” last season. He thought Custance an Custer, as in General Custer, were close enough so he just started calling Craig that.
By Brendan
December 8, 2007 8:40 PM | Link to this
This Recchi acquisition is not an albatross. He’s going to get a prorated, half-price contract, which will total in the viscinity of $586,000. We lose … nothing. If the guy can’t cut it in our “speed first, carry the puck in” strategy, we put him on waivers. Someone ELSE will claim him and his salary, as well. What’s the harm??
Recchi wants to stay in the NHL. He doesn’t want to play in the minors and he doesn’t want to retire. So, he’ll be properly motivated to succeed here. He’ll do better than Slater, Boulton, Larsen, Haydar, Thorburn … without breaking the bank. No lost draft picks. No lost prospects, other than whomever is subject to a waiver claim on their way to Chicago (AHL). I like this move.
But I’d agree that people shouldn’t expect this move to result in a Stanley Cup victory. No one has offered Recchi some 3-year, $9 million deal. That’s when you utter the words, “Waddell has lost his mind.”
By Brian
December 8, 2007 8:49 PM | Link to this
Switching channels during intermission and one of the insiders that I usually watch just said that the Thrashers and Hossa have agreed on terms. They are just waiting for Hossa to feel comfortable and he will sign
Maybe this game sucks but that is great news to ease the pain…
By Alan
December 8, 2007 8:54 PM | Link to this
Brian - Wonderful news! I just hope the Thrashers can do something throughout this season to make him feel comfortable.
By Big_Bill
December 8, 2007 9:26 PM | Link to this
Gee Brian… Do you dislike ANYONE who says Waddell is a BAD GM ?
If he were in control we would have a much better team than this…
So QUIT your whining at others and look at what we have… after this debacle tonight I really wonder !!!!
By Brendan
December 8, 2007 9:41 PM | Link to this
The Bolts just tied it up with the Islanders, 1-1. C’mon Islanders, break out of your funk!! Beat the Lightning for us!!
By Brian
December 8, 2007 9:47 PM | Link to this
Big_Bill - do you only complain after losses too?
By Brendan
December 8, 2007 10:12 PM | Link to this
Bolts and Isles are in overtime, 2-2. Isles hit the post in OT. The Islanders have blown two leads tonight.
By John
December 8, 2007 10:25 PM | Link to this
Thanks GSU!
I heard the interview that he did on 680 during the Rangers game and got a kick out of it so I thought I’d ask.
By Brendan
December 8, 2007 10:27 PM | Link to this
Isles got a PPG in OT for the win. So, at least something went well tonight.
By Big_Bill
December 8, 2007 11:44 PM | Link to this
Gee Whiz brian Just WHAT is YOUR problem ?
By Dunwoody/Kevin
December 8, 2007 11:47 PM | Link to this
I agree…
Brian needs to check facts not bashing others on the blog…
You seem to be a very insecure person… Always jumping on people who do not like Don Waddell…
Less attacking others and deal with the FACTS Brian !
By Roswell Thrasherfan
December 9, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this
the only facts I notice is that every time there is a loss there are people on this blog who you never hear from any other time. why do you people only post when there is a loss? big-bill and dunwoody kevin haven’t been here all year, yet we have to listen to their whining after a loss all of a sudden.
By GSU-Lee
December 9, 2007 5:00 PM | Link to this
I like how Brin said “one of the insiders usually watch” like he has special access to some great insiders. whatever dude, get over yourself.
By Brian
December 9, 2007 5:35 PM | Link to this
GSU-LEE - no special access, I just coughed up the money for Center Ice unlike you. Anyone can have it, contact Tony C at hispeedtest@hotmail.com if you have Comcast and he can help you out. Then you will have access to other programming and shows that have “inseiders” that folks like myself, Brendan, Rawhide etc. watch. Then you too can find out what’s going on in the NHL…
I find that Stan Fischler used to give the most dirt up, but he is terribly slanted at times. Apparantley some of the other Center Ice subscribers feel that Deb Kaufman is the best studio girl.
My favorite announcer is still Rick Jeanerette, but I used to like the guy from Fox Sports Pitt as a #2. See, no ego trip here, just someone who watches a lot of hockey. I’m sure Brendan will weigh in with his favorites…
By Brendan
December 9, 2007 11:53 PM | Link to this
There are a lot of great broadcast crews out there around the league. Believe it or not, I really like Denis Potvin with the Florida Panthers, as sometimes I wonder if he even “thinks” about censoring some of his comments. He just lets it all hang out! The man says what’s on his mind. Not quite as much Don Cherry, but enough.
Best “play-by-play” guy … has to be Rick Jeanerette, in Buffalo. But I like the Penguins guy whose trademark is “He shhoots-n-scores.” The guy who works for the Avalanche is a hoot … he’s the one who always yells, “Suuuuper Joe!!!” whenever Sakic scores. He does it with such zest and enthusiasm, that I wonder if a career in adult films can’t be far behind. It sounds like he’s having … well … let’s just a “very good time.”
Now, for Buzzilla’s benefit, I will now launch into the Intermission babes around the league, on Center Ice. On NESN, from Boston, during the week, there’s Hazel Mae. On Weekends, you get the delicious Kathryn Tappen. On Hockey Night in Canada, you get Cassie Campbell. On the Long Island, there’s Deb Kaufman. Also, you get Commercials featuring a totally rejuvenated Christie Brinkley. Some people tell me that Christine Simpson, of Versus, is a hottie. And there’s someone out in L.A. Uggh. What is her name? This is gonna “bug” me. She works for “LAKingVision.com.” She was on the apprentice for a while. Dang. Heidi Androl! That’s her name. I think she’s an actress, really. But she appears every so often on the L.A. Kings broadcasts. I encourage you to check her out.
“Center Ice” will change your life, if you’re a serious hockey fan. But make sure you’ve got space in your Tivo, DVR, and/or that you have an ample supply of recordable DVD’s and/or VHS tapes. There are so many games worth keeping, at least for a while. Dallas led the Kings 4-0, and lost 5-4. That’s a keeper. It’s not everyday that a team overcomes a four goal deficit in the 3rd period. And every so often, someone has a four goal night, or even five. If you recorded nothing but shootout attempts from Center Ice, you’d fill your DVR in about 8 weeks. Let’s say your Sid Crosby fanatic. Well, you can catch just about every Penguins game all year, between Versus, NBC, Center Ice, the NHL Channel, and the FOX SportsSouth matchups against Atlanta.
By GSU-Lee
December 10, 2007 12:09 AM | Link to this
Brian, don’t need center ice, have a full access press pass. So kiss my @$$, (threw in the ryhme cause I thought I would let you know I don’t take myself nearly as seriously as you do)
By GaVaHokie
December 10, 2007 8:40 AM | Link to this
Recchi comes at the same price as Slater with three times the point production and the leadership of Mellanby… enough said.
btr… think before you speak. I’ll take a 38 year old Recchi scoring 60+ points a season over a a Slater or Haydar anyday.
And while we’re on age… for all you Jeremy Roenick doubters over the summer, he leads the league in GWG’s… 5 so far. He has 14 points and only cost SJ $500,000.
If you want to compare… Todd White has 18 points at $2 million.
By GaVaHokie
December 10, 2007 9:13 AM | Link to this
According to Satellite Hot Stove on TSN Saturday night… Hossa has a contract written up with the agreed upon term and dollars. He won’t sign until he’s happy with the direction of the team, so we have to wait a little while for the signature.
Here’s to Recchi waking up the youngsters.
By Brian
December 10, 2007 9:52 AM | Link to this
don’t need center ice, have a full access press pass
Wow, so who’s full of themself now?
By R. Stroz
December 10, 2007 10:08 AM | Link to this
I can hit the two foot marker on the wall, does that count for anything?
By Off the post
December 10, 2007 10:16 AM | Link to this
hey, don’t mock GSU-LEE. not only does he have a full press pass, but with his student ID he can get $1 off any matinee at general cinema!
By Brian
December 10, 2007 10:27 AM | Link to this
Off the post - don’t forget the Atlanta Zoo gives student discounts too. All the lady Panthers on campus dig that…
By R. Stroz
December 10, 2007 10:29 AM | Link to this
Not trying to mock anyone, just trying to lighten the mood a little.
By Alan
December 10, 2007 10:38 AM | Link to this
I love the write up on Hedberg, Craig. Great stuff, as usual!
By Off the post
December 10, 2007 10:42 AM | Link to this
uh, rstroz, i thought i was lightening the mood with the student ID comment, i guess it wasn’t as funny as your 2 foot marker comment.
*disclaimer - that was not intended to mock you rstroz.
By R. Stroz
December 10, 2007 10:44 AM | Link to this
Back to hockey, while Hossa is waiting to decide whether he wants to stay in Atlanta, I’m waiting to see if Hossa can:
1) Find 5th gear again. Has anyone seen Hossa really take off once this year? Last year, Hossa had a higher gear he would kick into in the open ice.
2) Use his body to protect the puck and barrel toward the goal. I haven’t seen Hossa lower the shoulder and force his way to the other team’s goal all season.
By GaVaHokie
December 10, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this
I concur… great Hedberg article Craig.
By R. Stroz
December 10, 2007 10:54 AM | Link to this
Off the Post** - Thought your comment was great, but sometimes people around here don’t take a joke real well.
By Brian
December 10, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this
Back to mocking Stroz, I will offer a free Thrashers hockey puck to anyone who can fabricate a picture of Stroz standing with Todd White. I will throw in a magnetic schedule if you can somehow get Andy Sutton in the photo.
By R. Stroz
December 10, 2007 11:06 AM | Link to this
Brian - Please include Holik and Zhitnik if possible, I need to scare off some rats.
By Roswell Thrasherfan
December 10, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this
I can craft a photo of rstroz with the ice girls. But that wouldn’t be mocking him, that would be more along the lines of taunting him. How about just a photo of GSU-Lee with his studly all access super duper press credentials?
By R. Stroz
December 10, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this
RoswellThrasherfan - Make sure Briana from the Blue Crew is in the picture, if we’re going to tick off Mrs. Stroz, lets make it worth while.
By Bob
December 10, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this
He won’t sign until he’s happy with the direction of the team, so we have to wait a little while for the signature.
Is anyone suprised by this? It’s pretty obvious that Hoss isn’t excited about the direction of the team. Reason #287 why it would have been a benefit to have Waddell gone long ago, we’ve got star players biding their time here waiting to get out. Is that the reason Waddell felt pressured to get Recchi-ball?
By Jsmooth
December 10, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this
R. Stroz — I’ve been wondering the same thing about Hoss and his conspicuous absence of “jump”. Perhaps that groin injury from earlier in the year was worse than we thought. He doesn’t seem to be the same player we saw last year. He’s still better than most even at 80-90 % but I’d like to see what the first line could do with Hossa in “full gear”.
Also, it was a pleasure getting to meet you Fri night in front of Gorin’s. Look forward to buying a round before the Leafs game!
By GaVaHokie
December 10, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this
Bob… actually, Hoss has been pretty happy here lately. He’s the one that gave his agent approval to go ahead and negotiate the deal… I’m not surprised if he wants to bide his time a little longer. I’m guessing until midway (Jan. 4th)
AND, if Recchi comes in and lights a fire under the team (on the ice and in the locker room) then I don’t see why Hossa wouldn’t put pen to paper.
Waddell grabbing Recchi is a smart move at just the right time… especially since he can come in and play HIS game and not be forced into the Hartley “system”.
By GaVaHokie
December 10, 2007 1:15 PM | Link to this
Craig… I was just reading Ben Wright’s update on Recchi at practice. He was mentioning how you guys thought Recchi looked like Sterling… I was just thinking this morning how good it would have been to have Sterling around to learn a few things from Recchi about working in front of the net.
By Off the post
December 10, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this
so what do death, taxes, and BOB coming up with some half @ss reason to bash our latest player acquisition all have in common?
By Thrasher Ryan
December 10, 2007 1:31 PM | Link to this
I Would like to see lines like this:
Kovalchuk-White-Hossa
Kozlov-Holik-Thorburn
Boulton-Little-Haydar
Perrin-Slater-Dupuis
I have a feeling Boulton could mesh very well with the youngsters. Just a suggestion for Coach Waddell
By GaVaHokie
December 10, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this
Stroz and Jsmooth… are we really going to give Hossa grief when he’s on pace for 80 points? That’s if he continues his current point production, which I believe will improve.
It’s easy to criticize when Kovy is on pace for 130 points… which begs the question, are we looking at a potential lull period from Kovy soon? Can he keep up the pace?
By Brian
December 10, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this
Thrasher Ryan - I like Slater & Dupuis playing together, but if you put Perrin with them, don’t they really become the 3rd line, taking minutes away from Little & Haydar? Not that it’s a bad thing, play the guys who are producing. Thorburn was even getting time on the PP last game.
By R. Stroz
December 10, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this
GaVaHokie - As Jsmooth said earlier, Hossa is better than “80-90% of the players in the league; however, he hasn’t shown fifth gear all season. Those are accurate obsevations, not grief.
Don’t you miss some of the pep in his step and drive to the net? I’m not saying he is slow; but I’m concerned he may have lost a step or two right before the Thrashers tie up a lot of salary cap money for the next few years.
By R. Stroz
December 10, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this
Brian & Thrasher Ryan - Since the energy line has been altered.
I would like to see
Thorburn-Little-Haydar on a line together. Thorburn would give that line some beef.
And then
Boulton-Slater-Dupuis stay together.
And move Perrin to the Kozlov-Holik line.
By GaVaHokie
December 10, 2007 2:24 PM | Link to this
Stroz… I suppose I agree, he doesn’t bring the puck up ice as much as he used to (making guys miss), but he still gets himself in position to score points… compensating perhaps? He’s smart enough to find other ways to score.
Brian and Ryan… my God, how annoying would that line be. Slater, Perrin and Dupuis? Three guys who make amazing moves to the net but can’t finish a shot to save their life.
Although Dupuis has been doing better since I called him out last week for not finishing his shots.
By GaVaHokie
December 10, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this
Little will Center the second line with Kozlov and Recchi I would imagine… I’m guessing the checking line will be Perrin-Holik-Dupuis.
The fourth line will be Boulton-Slater-Thorburn, I’m guessing.
By Brian
December 10, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this
Hokie - call him out again, last week he couldn’t hit the water if he fell out of a boat…
By Jsmooth
December 10, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this
GVH — as * R Stroz * was kind enough to point out, I was in no way belittling Hossa for his lack of production…I am more concerned that he doesn’t seem to have that extra gear we are so accustomed to seeing from him. He has seemed to play much better over the last few weeks and I expect more good things from him and our revamped first line. However, I do have some misgivings about paying him $8 million / year to produce 70-80 points a year. For that kind of money, I think he SHOULD produce 100-120 points per year. I don’t think that’s grief as he is making a lot of money to enjoy the privilege of hearing his name chanted by thousands of people at Blueland.
By GaVaHokie
December 10, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this
Jsmooth… I concur.
According to this blog Recchi got a lot of work on the 3rd and 4th lines with Perrin, Slater, Boulton and Larsen. I’m not liking that.
By Brian
December 10, 2007 3:35 PM | Link to this
Hokie - I hear ya, but our first line is set in stone, so what else could we get. I think Larsen is on the way out the door, don’t you???
By Jsmooth
December 10, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this
I hear ya Hokie, I don’t want Recchi on the 3rd line either unless he is teamed up with Holik and Kozzie. He could, emphasis on could, be the physical finisher that is needed on that line. If Recchi still has a nose for the net, Kozzie can set him up for some hard-earned goals. Perhaps they can duplicate the spark Lars / Holik / Dupuis gave us on the 3rd line at the end of the year.
Personally though, I would like to see Recchi as the RW with Little and Thorburn (I believe he is fine on either wing). I like the forechecking presence Thorburn brings to the table, but just don’t see Haydar as the answer on that line because no one is over 5’ 9”. Hayds is a playmaker on a line that needs a finisher. I like Perrin a lot too but think he may be better suited on the 4th line with Slates & Dupuis. That line could give other teams fits…as well as our fans by not finishing their chances!