Thrashers

By Sara

January 31, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this

Now I know where that blast of wind at lunch came from - it was the collective exhalation of the entire Thrasher organization and fan base.

By EROCK

January 31, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this

Will the Thrashers respond positively during a crucial stretch of the season, without the services of their best player?..YES THEY CAN BUT DONT YOU WOULD THINK THIS GOALIE ROTATION HAS GOT TO STOP !! KEEP KARI IN THERE ALL THE TIME NOW TIL THE END OF THE SEASON SINCE WE KNOW HE IS 100 % HEALTHY TO SEE IF HE REALLY IS THE GOALIE OF THE FUTURE.IF NOT WE NEED TO TRADE HIM BY THE DEADLINE ! kARI GIVES US THE BEST CHANCE TO WIN. HEDBERG IS GONE AFTER THIS YEAR ANYWAY !!

By Brendan

January 31, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this

The responsibility to step up falls on players like White, Kozlov, Perrin, your aforementioned Brett Sterling, and especially, it falls on Marian Hossa. But more than that, it also begs 3rd line contributions from Holik and Dupuis. Maybe even Thorburn and Slater.

Who knows? Slates finally tallied a goal, maybe with that monkey off his back, he might pop in a few more?

By Hockey Fan

January 31, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this

Play Hedberg. Bring Pavelec up. Dump Lehtonen.
Get a coach.

By J(Z)

January 31, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this

Makes no sense to start Moose tomorrow!!!! Ughhhhhhh. Who cares about the last time we faced them at home. We ALL know what happened the last time he faced them PERIOD! Not good. And now we’ll be Kovy-less. This is Hossa’s time to shine. If he comes up lame, no one may even want him. I read on thepensblog that they don’t even want Hossa. I wonder how many others feel the same now?

Keep us posted on Kovy, hope everything is ok!!!!

By Hockey Fan

January 31, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this

Look for Hossa, White, and Kozlov to step up. They are the only other goal scorers. Don’t look for help from 3rd line defensive players, its not their job.

By Russ

January 31, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this

I’m going to have to give up on trying to figure out Waddell’s (and Hartley’s before him) goalie rotation. Whatever.

Anyway, I’m glad to hear Kovy might only miss two games. Not that the Thrashers are in positin to settle for .500 play, but I’ll take 2 pts. in the two games Kovy misses and hope the team catches fire upon his return.

GO THRASHERS!!!

By MB

January 31, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this

I’d love to see Kozzy pick it up for his countryman. He has a terrific shot that he uses far too rarely, and has been somewhat invisible this season. Now would be a good time for him to reappear.

But as Brendan alluded to, it’s Hossa who will have to do the heavy lifting. And some steady defense and strong goaltending wouldn’t hurt, either.

By Kozzie13

January 31, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

We have a back to back Friday and Saturday so logic would dictate that the goalies would split them as Kari definitely hasn’t shown that he can be a Nabokov type goalie and play every game. I have no problem w/ playing Moose against Buffalo if Donny has a feeling about it.

By Tom

January 31, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this

If you have been watching the telecasts of the Thrashers you may have noticed this.

Hossa has been amazing on the back check and any other situation where there is no contact.

But when going to the net or carrying the puck he is bailing out the minute he may face any contact.

That is why we are so annoyed at him playing out the string this season.

Opposing players know all they have to do to Hossa is say “BOO” and he will turtle up and head for the bench.

By Hockey Fan

January 31, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this

Who are Kovy and Kozzy? Reminds me of people yelling Weiner in Northlands Coliseum.

By Red Light

January 31, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this

They responded well in New York in the second game despite the shoot-out loss. It’s time for desperation and getting out to a quick lead seems a sure-fire recipe for success, and not just for the Thrashers. Teams that score first are 545-142-85 this season. That’s a 70.6 percent winning percentage. And, if you score first, you get at least one point 81.6 percent of the time.

Recipe: Come Out Flying in the First!

By Christy

January 31, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

That last game at Buffalo, I wouldn’t hang that one on just Moose - and Kari let in 3 of his own that game if I recall. The rest of the team pretty much left them out to dry. Given Moose’ personality and drive, and the back to back games, I can’t imagine a better game to put him in. May not be likely, and I may sound overly optimistic, but I wouldn’t follow over in shock if Moose was able to stonewall Buffalo completely this game, or limit them to a single goal.

By Jarndyce

January 31, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this

These are the first games Ilya’s missed due to injury since his rookie year, yeah? Man, that kid is going to be in a bad mood this weekend.

By Hockey Fan

January 31, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

Tom; Can you blame someone for protecting his bread and butter? The fact is he needs to protect himself, but at the same time display his skills. Who wants to hire a turtle? But again, who wants to hire a nonproductive scorer? A balance to be sure. Don’t be annoyed. Pray that he stays healthy.

By Russ

January 31, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

Tom, you are exactly right. I noticed a couple times last night where Hossa was coming down the right wing even with the d-man and no one else between him and the goalie. Last season he would have lowered his shoulder and bull-rushed his way to the goal. This season he pulls up and hopes for a trailer to dish to or flips a wrister before any contact is initiated. This has been going on all season. If we are getting 75% from Marian Hossa, that is still better than most forwards in the NHL, but I can’t help but think this team would be 7 or 8 points higher in the standing if Hossa was playing this season with the same edge he did last season (playoffs excluded).

By David

January 31, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this

with all the talk about hoss underproducing, which i have even helped contribute to, i really over looked the biggest underproducer on the team this year. Slava Kozlov…what happened to you buddy?

This year he continually looks slow and out of shape. He’s always behind the play instead of in the rush and he continually appears absent from the play.

He’s on pace for 22 goals, 20 assists, and 42 points…compare that to last year 28 goals, 52 assists, and 80 points…38 point difference, WOW! That’s an entire another player difference.

By GaVaHokie

January 31, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

Kozlov had a pretty nice blast from the point in last nights game… I wouldn’t mind seeing him run the point on the PP.

That being said, I expect more from Kozlov while Kovy is out… he had some nice plays with Holik and Dupuis last night.

By Bob

January 31, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this

Good news on Kovy. They’re going to have a tough time on the PP without him, hope they worked that hard in practice today.

Great call starting Moose. Lehtonen plays so much better when he has plenty of rest. Moose tomorrow, Lehtonen the next night for the bigger division game against the Craps. Good call.

By Hockeyfan

January 31, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

I think I am going to have to change my name if people keep coming in here stealing it

By Brendan

January 31, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this

Ya know something, folks. A sudden “dawning” has come over me … that Hossa is not about to sign a 4-year deal, but rather, a seven to eight year, valued somewhere between $56 and $64 million.

Okay, it’s brutal honesty time. If you were looking at a job renewal for $55 or more million, but you could LOSE IT ALL by getting hurt before you sign, what would your approach be?

Well? Well?? Well??? C’mon now, folks. That’s an UNGODLY amount of money to be risking. Truthfully, one might “dog it” a bit in that contract year to secure that contract, then resume playing as normal, knowing that the money is “guaranteed.”

And if you’re Hossa, and you KNOW that you’re not going to stay in Atlanta anyway, and perhaps have even told your agent, make it happen in Detroit for next season, where’s the incentive to do your UTMOST for Atlanta? Answer truthfully, now. There isn’t one.

By R. Stroz

January 31, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this

Brendan - I’ve been saying Hossa is playing not to get injured for months.

By Tony C.

January 31, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this

I betcha we see Hoss the next game, not hossa (I’m with whoever’s on the anti-capitalizing tip-for now).

He seems to really take off when he isnt fighting for the limelight this year so to speak. Now, I don’t know but I’ve seen rumors that Cal-gary is looking for additional scoring-how likely is it we see a three-team trade to bring Hossa to the Red Mile???

Tidbit: Looks like after the NHLTV people actually came to ATL, they’re singing a slightly different tune eh? Some very nice words from the OTF guys last night.

I wonder how much Sterling will be helped by playing opposite of Recchinball? They’ve got similar steez, but maybe it allows Sterling to see the right way to go about that way? I hope so, but really, if we’ve got two guys that goto the net, how effective will Charminator be from the high-spot? I think it might work well-the opportunities there.

I’d look out for Buff-Miller was the difference for them last night against FLA, but if he’s rested enough to bring the same sort of game to The Flatscreen, we will really need to see some @sses in the crease-he looked really sharp. Although Vokun deserved the win-Miller held them off.

GO BLUE !!!

By Aaron

January 31, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this

I said it this summer, and I still think it now- we never should have re-signed Kozzy. He is taking up a spot that would be better filled by Sterling, and he costs us a ton more money. In the past at least he was a plus player, but this year his defense has been terrible (relatively speaking). He is too old. Age slows you, it is inevitable. Last year was the apparition, not the way he is playing now…

By Brendan

January 31, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this

I know, R.Stroz. I know. It’s the “acceptance” of it that I’ve struggled with.

By Waffleboy

January 31, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

How said is this story? Arrest warrant issued for Guy Lafleur

By kracker

January 31, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this

Kovy or not, the guys have to step up this weekend. We need points from this homestand, that hasn’t changed. The road game is at Caps, we are fighting them for taking the division lead from the Canes. Winning the division may be the only ticket to the PO for the SE.

Frankly, a loser team will use the excuse of the best player being out to lose. A team wanting to make playoffs will somehow get it done.

By B. Thenet

January 31, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this

I think the PP unit may actually do a bit better. We might see more traffic in front of the net, since guys won’t be worried about getting hit by Ilya’s shot.

As long as our bottom line guys are on the forecheck and creating chances, they should be OK.

By Craig Custance

January 31, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this

Here’s something to cheer you up while Kovalchuk heals: Coburn a star pupil on defense

By David

January 31, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this

Okay, here’s my personal opinion on what I think we should do before the trade deadline.

->Trade Moose for a solid offensive or defensive player. Hedberg is on the last year of his contract so he’s an appealing rental.

->Trade Hossa for either another elite player, or at least 2 better then average players. I’m not concerned with drafts picks right now.

->Shop around and see what we could get for Zhitnik, Holik, and or Kozlov. All 3 players could prove valuable to other teams this year, but really haven’t done anything special for us. Sometimes a trade can help both teams in situations like that.

->I do NOT trade Recchi. He’s been a great fit with Kovy, leave him be.

->Spend some cash and get the right players. Everybody was dissapointed in the offseason with the moves. It’s time to makeup for that and make this a team that has a real shot at succeeding.

=> In a perfect world…I wish we could pull off a trade with Dallas. Send them hossa and moose for ribeiro and turco. Hedberg has been there before and i’m sure he’d be appealing to them and ribeiro is a highly underrated center with 56 points and a +14 and he’s only 27.

BUT…i don’t know if dallas would part with either of them haha. Oh well, I can dream!

By Hip Czech

January 31, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this

OK, so if we accept the Hossa playing not to get injured line of thinking (which I can accept), what happens if he gets traded to Detroit or Ottawa or Anaheim at the deadline. Does he turn it back on and risk an injury if he has a decent shot at winning a cup?

I’m thinking more and more he has to be moved at the deadline (or before).

Best case scenario is we trade him for a couple good youngsters/picks and then have a shot at re-signing Hossa over the summer. Worst case is we get some decent youngsters/picks and then go shopping in the UFA market for another scorer.

I really don’t care about winning the division this year…it would be nice, but ultimately I’d rather get a good young nucleus that could be cup contenders for a good run.

Kovalchuk, Lehtonen, and Enstrom are a start. Add a good young center (Kopitar, e.g.) and another D in a trade for Hossa and sign a first line winger this offseason. That sets us up for a good 4-5 year run assuming DW can find a coach and spend cap money wisely. Oh, and use the picks from a Hossa trade wisely (OK, I may be pushing it here).

By Christy

January 31, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this

Dang Craig,

didn’t think you had a sadist streak in you, posting that article. Yikes. depression sinking in….

By lordstan57

January 31, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this

Good Gawd!!! I didn’t need that link to Coburn. STILL just burns my bum!!!!!

By Craig Custance

January 31, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this

Christy and lordstan: Sorry, I just got done reading it and thought it was interesting. Didn’t mean to bring anyone down.

By FormerIslesFan

January 31, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this

David Just a quick note without any commentary on your suggestions: Doesn’t Kozlov have a No-Trade Clause? Isn’t that what tipped the scales in him signing with us rather than Detroit?

CC: Any update on what Kovy’s MRI revealed this afternoon?

By R. Stroz

January 31, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this

I was worried the Zhitnik for Coburn trade would turn out like the Doyle Alexander for John Smoltz trade did. In the short run, the trade looked good, in the long run, the trade will go down as one of the dumbest ever.

This time Atlanta was on the wrong end of the equation.

By Sara

January 31, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this

Hip Czech I still think it’s a pipe dream to hope we’ll get a good young anything back for Hossa. If it’s talented enough to fill a position open here, it’s talented enough to want to keep for a playoff run. We don’t need any more role players on this team - we have those in abundance. So that leaves upper echelon players - which no one is coughing up at the deadline if they are in buying mode - which a taker for Hoss has to be.

Personally, unless someone proposes a surprising blockbuster, I’d rather keep Hossa here, make a run for the playoffs, hope we get in, hope like heck we win some games once we get there, and find a way to convince Hossa to stay. Cause I don’t see where we can really replace him next season. Noone of his caliber is going to be available.

By Craig Custance

January 31, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this

Sterling officially gets the call.

By Tom

January 31, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this

after the stellar play we have been seeing by Zhitnik this season the Coburn trade looks downright smart.

The ability of Zhitnik to be in the right place at the right time and be constantly moving quickly to take away the angles has been downright amazing to watch.

His plus minus rating and the support he brings to his teamates are the glue that is keeping the team together.

I also know that the goalies are appreciative of his support and leadership on defense as they rarely are called upon to make a save or face a high amount of shots.

When I watch other games and defenses, I am always saying What Would Zhitnik do?

By GSU-Lee

January 31, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this

Craig, you feel like Waddell is letting Moose play against Buffalo mostly because of how the game went last time? Or do you feel he really just likes the matchup, or both?

By Thrasher Ryan

January 31, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this

GSU-Lee and Craig—I think Waddell is going with Moose tomorrow and KL on Saturday because the game against the Caps is a little more important for the Thrashers to win than the game tomorrow. This way, Moose still gets some action and KL will be fresh for a Divisional opponent. While at first I disagreed with it, it now makes a lot more sense to me.

Glad to see Brett Sterling back, too. This is his CHANCE. He has got to take advantage of it while he is down here.

By Thrasher Ryan

January 31, 2008 6:05 PM | Link to this

Bloggers, you have until Noon today to check out the “On the Fly: Final” segment on the NHL Channel. For Comcast Cable customers, that’s channel #296. And why? They’ve got a feature of the history of hockey in Atlanta, including the construction of the Omni, the naming of Cliff Fletcher as GM, and the installment of Bernie Geoffrion as Head Coach. Plus they discuss the Atlanta Flames draft picks and feature many video clips of the Flames. If you are the nostalgic type, this is “must-see” viewing. There are two interviews with Flames fans from the 1970’s. They talk about how well hockey caught on in Atlanta, as they admit they had allegiances to other sports until hockey came to town. The feature covers the move to Calgary and the Cup Finals appearances in 1986, 1989, and 2004. I had forgotten that Kent Nilsson was the last “original” Flame to retire, in 1995. The Flames made the playoffs six of their first eight years. But unfortunately, no Atlanta team has ever won an NHL playoff series. But, we’ll just have to “stay tuned” for that.

Check it out. You’ve got until 12:00 PM. It’s the “NHL Network.” Also called, “NHLTV” in the guide.

Tony C.—How can Comcast customers add this channel? I remember hearing about an upgrade package or something… Also, how much would it cost for the upgrade? Thanks.

By GSU-Lee

January 31, 2008 6:30 PM | Link to this

First of all that Alanta Flames segment was awesome, and ThrasherRyan, that makes sense and seems like a feasible logic. Honestly I don’t care but the Thrashers really need at least 3 points in these two games with Saturday being a must-win

By Brendan

January 31, 2008 8:10 PM | Link to this

Thrasher Ryan, you can get the “NHL Network” on Comcast Cable by requesting the “Digital Preferred” package. This package gives you all of the “200’s” channels. Included in that, is the “Sports and Entertainment package.” That includes soccer channels, Golf channel, College Hoops, NFL Access, etc. Now, while you’re at it, it only costs $4 more … to add Channel #118, the NFL Network. That’ll give you virtually all the NFL Preseason games and replays of many of the NFL games, all during the following week. It provides all sorts of indepth analysis, with Rich Eisen, and Deion Sanders, etc. It’ll run you … $5 a month. And a bigger “no brain” decision, I cannot imagine.

Be sure to mention that you want to “combine specials” at a discount. The whole thing might only run you $9, assuming you already have “digital basic.” But the surest way to save $$ is to email Tony C. He’ll find you the best deal, bases on what you’ve currently got. And if you’re NOT a Comcast customer, but want to switch over to Comcast, I’m sure they have “incentives” to achieve that. I’ll let Tony C. elaborate on that one. “Ditch the Dish” is probably what that special is called.

By David

January 31, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this

I think kozlov would wave the clause for the right trade, but i could be wrong.

By Russian

January 31, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this

Carolina and Washington won OT. Ovechik got Poker. Damn!!! He is good. I saw both games on ICE Center. I do not know what we are going to do with Buffalo tomorrow, I hope we can get two points. Because we never get one point at Saturday. It is just imposible. Capitals are HOT. I thnink we will win OT tomorrow and loose game at Saturday. :-) Sorry, but s** happens.

By Brendan

January 31, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this

Russian, Ovechkin netted four (4) goals tonight. Montreal scored “late” to force the OT. But the Habs couldn’t help us out. In Toronto vs. Carolina, Sundin scored in the final seconds … but it wasn’t enough. The ‘Canes won in the overtime. These games where multiple points are awarded are just adding to the confusion of the playoff field. With that “meaningless goal” Sundin, Toronto actually gains a point on Atlanta.

By Alan

February 1, 2008 12:22 AM | Link to this

With that “meaningless goal” Sundin, Toronto actually gains a point on Atlanta.

And with an Atlanta victory tomight, Atlanta will gain two points on Carolina. Atlanta still has a shot at winning the division. It’s pretty much anyone’s race here in the southeast division.

By Sabres Fan

February 1, 2008 9:14 AM | Link to this

LETS GO SABRES

By Sabres Fan

February 1, 2008 9:19 AM | Link to this

Kovalchuk secretly puts chicken wings up his BUTT

By Bob

February 1, 2008 9:25 AM | Link to this

Those Canes and Caps games last night both were terrible results, our divisional rivals both get 2pts and the Buds and Habs both get a pt for losing. Ovechkin pots 4, guess he ready Ilya was out.

This is setting up just like last year, every game is a must win, starting with tonight. Then, a huge 2 pts tomorrow night vs. the Caps. That’s why it’s a good move that Kari is being rested tonight, we need him to hold the Caps to 2 goals or less tomorrow to have a chance. I feel good about Moose stepping up tonight as well.

By Zach

February 1, 2008 9:32 AM | Link to this

And some days I wondered why Sabres fans got a bad rap. Then I looked above me.

By Russian

February 1, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this

I will say that we can get two points today if we are going to play same game as Pitts game. Buffalo is very good and speedy team. They lost players, but they still compete with other NHL teams. They have a solid Goalie (Miller) and good Offence and they never give up. Everyone saw what happend on last game between those two teams. What do we have?

1. Moose wants to take appoligy and he will play his best game.

2. Sterling, Stuard and Slater must play extremly well to get spot on the team for next year. It should be Showw OFF for them.

3. Our D must be more agressive.

We will see if they can do anything today. Tomorrow, we are going to loose a game with out questions. Ovy will just kill us. :-(

By Red Light

February 1, 2008 9:57 AM | Link to this

I just had to do it. I had to compare the rosters of the two teams facing off at Bluesland tonight. Guess which is the expansion team?

The Sabres have four players on the roster 30 years or older. The Sabres have 18, count ‘em, 18 players on the roster that are 29 years old or younger that have never played one NHL game for another team, and 10 of those are 25 yrs. old or younger.

Here’s the sad news: the Sabres have the same number of points as the Thrashers (with three games in hand) after losing their top two centers (Briere and Drury) to free agency over the summer and Numminen hasn’t played one game yet this season either. Imagine if they were to add a veteran or two before the deadline?

Oh, and they went to the Conference Finals in 2006 and 2007. Lost in the second round in 2001, lost in the first round in 2000, and went to the Finals in 1999. They missed the playoffs in 02, 03 and 04 but have been able to persevere while the kids developed.

Something to be said for having a plan and sticking to it!

By Turd Furgeson

February 1, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this

I dont know how the ‘bres will fare down there this time, but outscoring the Trashers 16-1 in buffalo this year is good enough for me.

By Brendan

February 1, 2008 10:13 AM | Link to this

Kovalchuk usually plays quite well against the Sabres. Bygones.

Shifting gears, Ray Emery rumors have been circulating. The buzz is that he wants out of Ottawa. And while the Sens just might accommodate him, I’m not sure Gerber is the guy to carry them back to the Finals. I still think Ottawa is “the team to beat” in the East. But teams like the Rangers, Flyers, and Devils, maybe even Montreal, could win the Prince of Wales Trophy this year. This “trade deadline” is going to change a lot.

If we’re sellers, I wouldn’t be entirely stunned to hear Montreal or Philly placed a call to Waddell’s office to attempt to re-acquire Mark Recchi. Folks, I like Mark Recchi. I want to keep him. But once we start selling assets, it’s all about rebuilding for the longrange future. And if the Habs, for example, were willing to part with a 2nd round draft pick, in this DEEP DRAFT this Summer, I’d say we’d have to consider it. Recchi is 40 years old. He’s not the guy to build around for the coming years. Recchi said he’d give Atlanta special consideration in the offseason. I believe him. If we picked up a 2nd rounder, or even a 3rd rounder, for Recchi and got to re-sign him, how would be a “bad” thing?

By Brendan

February 1, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

Red Light, I have to credit the Sabres’ scouting and drafting. Not to mention their excellent Coaches and assistant coaches down in Rochester (AHL). I think it was just last season the Bruins raided two of the Rochester Americans coaches. Plus, Lindy Ruff has been Buffalo’s coach for the past … what?, 13 years? Maybe longer. So, he’s a fixture. The players aren’t going to get him fired. And the GM is Darcy Regier. Who I think is a very capable GM.

Now, I don’t actually know all that much about the Sabres. But my fan in Tyrone, GA does! And he’s forever telling me that someone named Larry Quinn (???) is what’s messing things up in Buffalo, not the owner Tom Golisano or the GM Regier. I have to be honest. I have no idea who Larry Quinn is. Or how exactly he’s messing things up. What I do know is this: They could have, and should have, locked Chris Drury and let Danny Briere hit the Open Market. The other thing I know is … the Sabres were backed against the wall when they were forced to match an excessive RFA offer sheet for Thomas Vanek. Had someone done that to us in 2005 for Kovalchuk, Waddell would have had to match it, too.

By Smoothie

February 1, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

Brendan — not a bad thing at all. If we could “sell” Recchi at the deadline for a 2nd rounder AND still receive “special” consideration from Mark in the offseason for a return to Blueland, that, in my estimation, would be a very good thing. Recchi is the consummate pro and the influence he may wield in the lockeroom for guys like Slater, Stuart, Sterling etc could prove invaluable. In every game I’ve watched this season, Recchi always stands out to me as someone who is busting his tail and fighting for every inch of ice and space he gets on offense. I’m sure he could do a better job on the defensive end of the ice, but is there any forward (even Hossa this year) about whom we can’t say that same thing this year??

By David Duke

February 1, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this

Are there any ice puckey players with regular names, like Smith or Jefferson or Washington? From what I see, it appears the immigration laws need to be enforced a bit more stringently. Yeah ice puckey!

By GaVaHokie

February 1, 2008 10:57 AM | Link to this

Are there any ice puckey players with regular names, like Smith or Jefferson or Washington? From what I see, it appears the immigration laws need to be enforced a bit more stringently. Yeah ice puckey!

Again, that was weak… be funny or don’t bother.

By Thrasher Ryan

February 1, 2008 10:59 AM | Link to this

Brendan—Thanks for the info! Sounds like it’s worth it to me. I guess i gotta get in touch with Tony C. At least I know what to ask for when I call them. Thanks again.

By himthatknows

February 1, 2008 11:07 AM | Link to this

Boulton need to drop gloves and throw hands on anyone as soon as the puck drops. That’s how you deal with a team that just b*** slapped you the way Buffalo did last time they played.

By SABRES FAN

February 1, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this

ZACH SMOKES CRACK WITH HOSSA!!!!

LETS GO SABRES!!!!!

By GaVaHokie

February 1, 2008 11:13 AM | Link to this

Screw Buffalo, stop looking at their “player development”… who cares?

I think we’re most comparable to Calgary as far as Roster goes… they have only four of their own draft picks on the ice (Phaneuf is the only 1st rounder)Boyd, Lombardi and Moss (hardly worth mentioning)… they have old retreads like Conroy and Nolan… no depth at Center, and no #1 Center. They have shakey goaltending this year from Kiprusoff, but they still manage to win.

By himthatknows

February 1, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this

David Duke

Your screen name says it all. Please do all of us that actually understand hockey the pleasure of you remaining on the douche bag vent where you belong.

By GaVaHokie

February 1, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this

Until the Sabres win a Cup, I’m not giving anybody in that organziation “kudos” for anything.

Back to my Calgary argument… the difference between the Flames and Thrashers? Most of their guys are over 200lbs and about 80-90% of the roster is North American… no offense to Russia and our European friends, but North American hockey players fight harder and play more consistent hockey.

Who’s Calgary’s most inconsistent player this year?… Kiprusoff (Finland)

By MB

February 1, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this

Admittedly way off topic here, but CC, seeing the article on Mike Hampton “ready” for his comeback, and based upon Bradley’s recent “Who’s Worse” article, maybe an article on all-time Atlanta sports busts is in order. Probably more in line with Bradley’s temperament than yours.

Of course Hampton comes to mind with the Braves, along with the immortal Nick Esasky. Chris Washburn and Isaiah Rider for the Hawks. Aundray Bruce, Peerless Price, Bobby Petrino, and maybe even Michael Vick for the Falcons. And on the hockey side, I’d have to go with Steve Rucchin, Patrick Stefan, and going back to the Flames, Jim Craig.

By Thrashin'

February 1, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this

I just wish everyone would stop griping about who goes where and who needs to be traded and support the thrashers. Hossa’s as good as anyone at the trade deadline and i think as thrashers fans we should support him. I’m gonna cheer’em and yaw’ll can b*** all you want. GO THRASHERS!!!!

By himthatknows

February 1, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this

It’s not about who’s as good as who Thrashin’. It’s about the fact that if Hossa really wanted to be here like he says he does, he would have signed already. He’s playing games and trying to act like he isn’t involved. RICOLA RIDICULOUS! If Hossa brings in a roster player (preferably a young star on the rise like Jordan Staal), a prospect, and a 1st rounder, TRADE HIM TOMORROW!

By SABRES FAN

February 1, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this

You’re gonna need to draft the Ghost of Gretzky in order to get past the second round

LETS GO SABRES

By Tom

February 1, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this

Hey Sabres Fan

Stop stealing wifi from the pink house as you are cruisin Elmwood trying to pick up someone to fill your crack habit and go somewhere warm.

And you know why there are so many Sabres fan’s at Atlanta games? It is because all of the smart ones left Buffalo for a chance to succeed.

By **SABRE TOOTH**

February 1, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this

Gonna be another sorry night for you sorry thrasher fans, y’alls!

By Ani DiFranco

February 1, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this

Not true, Tom. There are so many Sabres fans at Atlanta games because THE THRASHERS SUCK!

By The Goo Goo Dolls

February 1, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this

We love you, Sabre Tooth!

By Thorburn's Thugs

February 1, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this

This is great! First we get the LOSER Pitt fans, now we get the LOSER BUFFY fans!

SABRE TOOTH Are you a Nashville fan? Because that is their mascot… yours is A SWORD! Oooooh so scary… A Sword!

Which one of your pathetic players would you like Boults and Thor to throw down on tonight?

By Rancid Rufus

February 1, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this

How come the Buffalo fans that show up in Atlanta are always FAT A++ES??? Just curious…

By Mighty Whitey

February 1, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

Isnt there a basketball game everyone can go to in Atlanta tonight? I just ask cause everyone is black I assume, and rides to the games in their Chrysler 300’s with big rims? Am I in the ballpark?

Gary

By SABRE TOOTH

February 1, 2008 1:06 PM | Link to this

Rancid Rufus, that’s because we stuff ourselves with Genny Pounders, Pizza, and wings and we don’t exercise or ever look in the mirror. YOU’RE AN IDIOT!

MINI SABES = 10 THRASHERS = 0

By RufusIsADouche.com

February 1, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this

Rufus…thats cause of the high calorie count of all the pu$$y we eat.

By ThornburnsPubeSalad

February 1, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this

Maybe Boults And Thor can throw down each others man rods…that’d be more entertaining then Atlanta trying to catch 8th place and get fanny f’d by Ottawa in 4 games. Just saying…..

By Rancid Rufus

February 1, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this

You are right guys, I am a pillow biting tool bag with a miniscule package.

By GaVaHokie

February 1, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this

J.P. Dumont just re-uped with Nashville for 4-years $16 million. That should keep Hossa’s dollar figure “in-check”.

By GaVaHokie

February 1, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this

Don’t worry about the Sabres fans everybody, they’ll be back in their Thrasher jerseys tomorrow… posers.

By Barack OBlog-A

February 1, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this

Look! the directions told me this would bold the text and it did!

yayyyyyyyyy!

By Brettster

February 1, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this

I would like to see Thor take on the Luchador Brotherhood in Peidmont Park. Weapons choices are machete’s and salsa.

By GaVaHokie

February 1, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this

thats cause of the high calorie count of all the pu$$y we eat.

I thought Buffalo pu$$y was supposed to be less calories.

By Rancid Rufus

February 1, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this

Hehehe… what a little puke! I mean FAT A++!!! HAHAHAHA!!!

By atldave

February 1, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this

Time to blow it up and rebuild. The Thrashers are the 2nd oldest team in the NHL. They have the third fewest draft picks playing for them. They are ranked by Hockeyfutues as having the 23rd best pool of young players and only 2 out the top 50 players are in the Thrasher’s organization. Clearly this reflects on Don Waddell and his scouting system. Nothing has changed there so rebuilding thought the draft is not a very encouraging prospect given the teams history of drafting early round players. The best option is to unload the older veteran players for “blue chip prospects” and “young rising prospects” that are just starting to make their mark. For example I would trade Hossa for Patrick Marleau and Ty Wishart, or to the Canucks for Ryan Kessler and Luc Bourdon. Both trades give us a starting center and a top blue chip defenseman prospect. Marleau is under performing in San Jose and needs a change of scenery. He can be the number one center of Ilya. Kessler is emerging as a strong center. Both of the defensive prospects have a good chance of being top 2 defenseman. What ever trades the Thrashers make need to include “BLUE CHIP” defenseman “prospects”. We can not afford both Ilya and Hossa. The Lightening have proven you can not tie your money up in forwards. One “superstar” forward with a “star” center and a top 10 league defensive pairings wins hockey. Kari with solid puck moving defenseman would be able to go a long way in the play offs in this scenario. The way the team is built now, old, small, weak down the middle will never win anything. Let the rebuilding start now. Making the playoffs this year will set this team back further than they are now, because the changes that need to be made will not happen. Free agency or RFA is not the answer for the Thrashers. Good trades for up coming stars and blue chip prospects is. Don does have a good history of these types of trades, he just has not been able to do it with star veteran players, and the trade deadline deals last year were not based on the future but the present. They HAD to make the playoffs last year. Bringing in young players with contracts in place will also allows us to slot our player compensation to set up for future free agents when the time is right.

By Thorburn

February 1, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

Hey Boults, who’a a++ should I kick tonite? I think I wanna go after that Campbell guy that’s about to leave their sad-sack team…

By Boulton

February 1, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this

Right on, Thor! I’m gonna try to injure that pantie-wearing goalie of theirs… Ya know, the one that wore a stocking cap over his mask in the outdoor game because it was too cold…

What a Pu$$y!!!

By Mr. Kovulchuk

February 1, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this

I’ll be @ Blake’s on the Park, drinking a salty drink through a fleshy straw!

By Rob Ray

February 1, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this

I don’t even play anymore and I could still kick the a* of every Thrasher there ever was or is….ya friggin dummies.

By Big Stupid Bird

February 1, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

HI! I hang over Philips’s Arena and shoot fire out my mouth when the Thrashers score a goal. Do you know why? Because the Thrashers are a bunch of FLAMERS

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

By GaVaHokie

February 1, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this

Yawn, the Buffalo fans are boring. Not a funny one among them.

By GaVaHokie

February 1, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this

Don’t be affraid of all these idiots from Buffalo folks…we’ve got protection

By GaVaHokie

February 1, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this

Nope, not a funny one….but honestly I lost my sense of humor when my grand pappy rubbed my special no-no place…..he never finished the job!

By David

February 1, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

i always thought the sabres should be the buffalos…somehow the buffalo buffalos has a nice ring to it…or maybe the buffalo wings…hm

By VagaHokie

February 1, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this

Clarke MacArthur scores a natural hat trick tonight….three goals with his bare dude piston.

By David

February 1, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this

Duh duh duh duh duh duh duh duh…hm…Buffalo Buffalo?….duh duh duh duh….hm

By Teamer Taylor

February 1, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

David, if you want to suggest names why dont you combine the football team with the hockey one and have the Flashers?

Then there can be 50 black guys to carry the equipment, sell drugs, and teach the rest of the players to shoot dice?

Racial harmony.

By ThrashersGurl420

February 1, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this

gosh if all this tension keeps building, this game and my freshman year are going to have alot in common….

…a very bloody first period.

By B. Thenet

February 1, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this

I see we have decided to slink down to the level of people from Buffalo with the discussion so far.

Hey I can’t blame them for coming down here, Briere and Drury also got out of there as fast as they could.

By Brendan

February 1, 2008 8:36 PM | Link to this

Welcome, atldave. That sentiment is growing … the sentiment of looking at the “big picture” as opposed to the here and now. If Hossa’s contract situation has done ANYTHING positive, it’s forced discussions to surface about the “direction of the team,” for the coming years.

I really don’t think we can sit back and support this team with blinders on anymore. I realize, it’s a popular sentiment to do just that. I mean, isn’t the simplest answer, “Root for the Thrashers to win every game?” Well, yes. But if this team is not on the right path, what will make it suddenly and instantly right itself? Nothing. It takes “vision” and “strategy” to do that. Well, when you’re constantly addressing immediate playoff needs it can be pretty challenging to be mindful of your “long range, strategic thinking.” Think “Zhitnik for Coburn.” Or “Five draft picks for Tkachuk.” That’s called, the EFFECT of short-term thinking.

By Brendan

February 1, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this

Who knows? Slates finally tallied a goal, maybe with that monkey off his back, he might pop in a few more?

Don’t look now, but Slater’s got goals in “back-to-back” games. :)