Thrashers

By Tom

February 14, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this

Reposted from previous post

Frickin Ekland is clueless in Philadelphia.

Here is what he says. In Hossa’s case, the Thrashers would love to re-sign him. However, talking to people around that situation it feels like Hossa is too set on seeing what this summer could bring. So that puts Waddell into a real spot. First and foremost, Waddell needs to make the playoffs in Atlanta. The Tkachuk trade showed us that last year. Waddell said as much yesterday when he said he had no regrets and the Thrashers needed to make the playoffs. The Atlanta fans would rather keep Hossa and make the playoffs then lose him for less than value and miss the playoffs. That is the reality of this new market southern team.

Here is my reply…

Nope. Wrong. And Clueless.

If you pay attention to the Thrashers and the Thrashers fans you would know we want Hossa gone for something worthwhile. It is the GM/Coach who is fighting for his job and clinging to the pipe dream that Hossa will ever want to sign with him for market value.

By ToF

February 14, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

Tom I read that article as well and had the same thought. Why on earth would we rather keep Hossa, get knocked out in the first round and then lose him than trade him for something worthwhile? Why would any fan want that? What a ridiculous idea.

By JayBird

February 14, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this

It is obvious to me that Hossa isn’t going to ever sign another contract here. With that said, Waddell has to get his butt in gear and find the best deal possible. I would much rather miss the playoffs this year and trade Hossa for future help. It would truly devastate this franchise if Hossa was allowed to walk away without anything in return.

By Sara

February 14, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this

Tom not every fan wants Hossa gone. I’m still puzzled why so many people are insisting that we have to get something for Hossa and not let him walk for nothing this summer. But how many times ever have you seen a team with a viable play-off opportunity trade away one of it’s top players? You think Detroit’s going to put Zetterberg on the market? Think we could snag Gomez or Drury from the Rangers? Even factoring in impending UFA status, that’s not a move normally seen.

The bottom line goal has always been to keep Hossa here. Don’s best shot at that frankly may be to keep Hossa here, try to bring in a talented player or two that will be here for at least another year or so (not just rentals), and get this team into the play-offs with a modicum of success once they get there. Hossa is NOT replacable based on other players available this year in free agency. Whatever Don needs to do to keep him is what they need to do.

By R. Stroz

February 14, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this

Craig - By any chance did Hossa operationaly define what “the direction of the team means”, such as picking up one or two top tier centers, picking up one or two top tier defensemen, getting a full time coach, or spending closer to the payroll cap?

Hossa could actually really help Atlanta fans by forcing the owners to field a better team.

By Russ

February 14, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this

I wouldn’t feel comfortable signing Letonen for more than about $3 mil per season. I think 3-5 years at $3 mil per season is fair. I’m sure he would be more inclined to sign the shorter contract in hopes of getting the big payday on his next contract sooner. His play is still inconsistent, but over the course of the year I would say he is an above average #1 goalie. My main problem with spending too much on him is his injury history. I think you need to allocate enough money to ensure you have a solid back-up goalie until he proves he can get past the nagging groin injuries. Give him 9 or 10 mil. for 3 seasons and if he stays healthy and performs over that time, then lock him up for the rest of his career. If not, hopefully Pavelec is ready to take over as a #1 by then.

Re: Hossa - Get two you NHL’ers (one D and one forward) that are already second line players with some upside plus a top pick or prospect. If this can’t be done hold onto Hossa and hope for a playoff run before he’s gone in the summer.

Re: Kovalchuk - There is a good chance the Thrashers are losing Hossa down the stretch and Kovy might only be at 80% (or whatever percentage he is playing at) the rest of the season. To quote Rawhide… Un-good.

By Russ

February 14, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this

Craig - What do you think are the odds of Moose being back next season?

By fokov

February 14, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this

I agree, ship him out. It is the only way to make this team a contender for the next couple of years. That is what Hossa wants. The current team isn’t even a round 2 contender, we are fighting even to get in. One hit in round 1 will knock kovy out or at least off his game = loss.
However, DW’s job should be on the line, so he will keep hossa and screw the Thrashers up even more, then sign some more coasters or trade for more Zhitniks. Fire DW now!

Sign Kari, not too high because of his lack of focus and injury history, which is completely related to his off ice fitness and work ethic. Ensure Pav’s is still around. He is 100% insurance in case Kari goes south. I want them both playing because they are both potentially great netminders.

Sell Hossa for a good RW, top Defensive rookie/prospect, top rookie/prospect center, and #1 pick. Fill the hole with the RW, potentially fill the hole in #1 center and #1 defense (Toby is great, but we need a guy with size as well), and the first pick will give us depth in those areas as well, since the draft is deep.

Selling Hossa, and signing him in the offseason is the best way to fix this team.

By Craig Custance

February 14, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this

Tom: I agree that the assumption about Atlanta fans is inaccurate. I think a majority would be thrilled if Hossa signed but if Waddell makes the right trade, they’d be equally happy.

Russ: To be honest, I haven’t chatted much with Moose about the future. I know he likes it here and likes the area and I’m sure he’d welcome any overtures from the team. I think Pavelec is the key to that one.

Sara: Brian Burke essentially said the same thing yesterday. He said fans should get used to UFAs walking. Just because a guy is leaving, doesn’t mean you automatically have to trade him.

By ranallo10

February 14, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the info Custance, you’ve done a stellar job as usual.

Could you ask Waddell AT SOME POINT (i.e. not necessarily immediately, but eventually please) what his scouts are saying about Brunnstrom? Also there’s another name I’ve heard bandied about, Ville Leino (Jokerit), could you see if he knows anything about that guy?

By fokov

February 14, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this

Sara Zetterberg is already on a proven cup contender team. That is a different situation that the Thrashers that have never won a single playoff game. Also Gomez and Drury are signed for many years to come, so they won’t be available, and by the time their contracts are up, I’m sure the rangers will be even more powerful than this year when those players have chemistry together.

By Pucksdeep

February 14, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this

The end is near…

ASG needs to pony up, seriously. This is ridiculous. I wouldn’t want to be in DW shoes, but perhaps he screwed the pooch a long time ago with some of his decisions. There are a number of questions which we will never know the answer to such as, “Where would we have been with a real coach and would this team have been a more clear contender at this point in the season?”

What’s the real problem anyway? Is it that Hossa isn’t certain of the future of the franchise and whether or not he wants to play here or is it that ASG simply won’t pony up for whatever he’s asking? At this point I feel like Don is lying to everyone. There’s no way in he!! he hasn’t been in discussions with other teams, like he’s been saying for weeks now, is there?

So even if he isn’t signed by the 26th, he could still be signed by July 1st, correct? Which depending on how this season plays out, could make that all the more difficult. And at that point if it doesn’t happen, he walks and Le Thrash get nuttin’, right? Dang..

By GaVaHokie

February 14, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this

If Hossa walks this summer and we use that money to sign someone like Brian Campbell or two players like John Michael Liles and Antoine Vermette… is it really walking away for nothing?

My biggest fear is giving Hossa $8 million a year, Lehtonen signing for $5 million a year (Craig, yes I would sign him for 5 years $25 million)… then what happens when Kovalchuk negotiations come up next year? He’s easily looking at $9 million.

That’s $22 million wrapped up in 3 players! You still don’t have a powerhouse defenseman and Enstrom’s looking like an expensive player long-term.

Hossa’s that expensive car you had no business buying. You should have spent the money on a new dish washer.

By Stats

February 14, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this

MY POST FROM RAWHIDE BLOG. IMPORTANT ISSUE RE: HOSSA

If ATL is going to move Hossa, we better make sure we can replace the offense and not focus too much on defense. Sounds crazy…. but - Hossa is in the top 10 in the league in shots at 218. Kovy has 212. It drops off dramatically to Koz at 112, Dupuis at 104 and everyone else is < 100. Kovy is the only player who even registers in the top 50 for shot %. Which means we don’t exactly have a bunch of snipers either. I cannot find another playoff team that is so imbalanced. Even WASH has 5 guys over 100 shots. (AO has 318 – which is unbelievable).

By kracker

February 14, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this

Hossa’s words: “They could lose me for nothing. Obviously they’re aware of that,” Hossa said. “It’s a big decision on their part.”

Come on, everybody. Hossa is plainly telling everybody he will not re-sign here for the contract he has been offered and probably he will not sign here for whatever is the maximun contract he can be offered.

DW has to make the trade. The one way I don’t renew my tickets is if there are no assets gotten for Marian’s services by the trade deadline.

By jen

February 14, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this

Best case scenario: DW trades Hossa for a ridiculous Tkachuk like trade. Get a quality center or Dman plus lots of picks including a conditional 1st rounder for next year if he’s resigned (next year is the Tavares sweepstakes, so it would be a pretty valuable pick) I think the spark of having the Hossa situation finally resolved will help with the chemistry, maybe even put a bigger chip on some shoulders. I’ve never always agreed wth everything DW has done, but Hossa is the best available player at the deadline, including Peter Foresberg (who, as apparently no one recalls did NOTHING for Nashville last year). DW should be able to get at least a pound and a half of flesh for him. Hossa, seeing the quality pieces added resigns Jul. 1.

Its a pipe dream, I know, but the reality is that the teams with the 7-8mil in free cap space to sign him this summer are NOT teams with a Stanley Cup in their immediate future. We all know you can’t buy good chemistry…see the Rangers this year.

I think he goes to Vancouver btw…for Kesler, one of Edler or Boudron or Bieksa and a 2nd plus conditional 1st if he resigns. That’s the deal I’d like to see. I like higgins, but would want Komisarik to keep him in the eastern conference.

By GaVaHokie

February 14, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this

And now that I’ve said that… here’s my rebuttal… if the ownership is ready to start spending that type of cash, then DO IT!! But no one wants to see the Kovy and Hossa “dog and pony” show for the next 5-6 years. If you’re going to fill out the rest of the roster with pocket change players than, please, don’t bother signing Hossa.

By Sage of Bluesland

February 14, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this

Not to damper the “enthusiasm” around here, but you do realize that it’s our bumbling Donny who has his fingers on the trigger(s) of any deals???

Truly scary thought.

Personally, the first thing I’d do is to fire Waddell before he can do further damage to the franchise.

Second: Trade Hossa to the highest bidder.

Third: Trade the glass-groined wunderkind to the highest bidder.

That would do nicely in getting rid of the stench of Don Waddell and his “Five-Year Plan”, which has been relegated to the infamous last-words bin of history…

Give the new GM all the tools to be successful and blow out the garbage employed by our Donny…

By thrashermanfromtoccoa

February 14, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this

what a roller coaster season…north georgia thrasher nation still behind our guys….birds rule!!

By ranallo10

February 14, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this

Sage — blow out the garbage employed by our Donny

Like Ilya Kovalchuk? Or Tobias Enstrom?? You’re right, we’re probably better off without all of those slouches Waddell drafted.

Four players can be singled out as being the reason this team has succeeded beyond expectations this season:

Ilya Kovalchuk

Tobias Enstrom

Marian Hossa

Kari Lehtonen

All of them were brought to the team by what GM?? So what you’re saying is get rid of two of those integral parts, and then clean house of all other “garbage employed by our Donny”.

What was it you said the other day about insanity?? “Constantly” is the thing that stuck in my mind. I find that interesting, because you always seem to come back…

By JayBird

February 14, 2008 5:26 PM | Link to this

It would be great if we can sign a big time free agent in the summer to replace Hossa but come on, what big free agent is going to come here? If given the option to go to a traditional hockey town for a little less money, don’t you think the majority would do that?

The worst case scenario for me is Hossa walks during the summer and Waddell spends his money on 3-4 fringe players. Is that going to help us? If we make the playoffs this year, do we really have much of a chance to make a serious run? NO! Last year’s team was better and look how the playoffs went. Yes, Kari, Hossa, and Ilya can carry a team but with out swiss cheese defense, there is only so much they can do.

By Thrasher 1

February 14, 2008 5:26 PM | Link to this

Well, this would tell us that the Heatly for Hossa trade ended up being a bust.

Heatly is still one of the great young stars in the leqague who signed a ‘long term’ deal this winter..

G-R-E-A-T…

Love the Thrashers - my family and I attend about 20 games a year - but this will hurt…

They need to get as much as they can for him now. He’s not coming back, with the team being owned by the disfunctional Spirit group.

By kracker

February 14, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this

CC You quoted Burke: “Just because a guy is leaving, doesn’t mean you automatically have to trade him.”

This isn’t just a guy leaving. An average guy you just replace. Marian represents too much value to let walk for nothing, especially this year where there are lots of buyers.

I feel DW will quite rightlty continue talking the ‘extend Marian’ talk until he gets an adequate offer from a hungry buyer.

By Red Light

February 14, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this

Hossa is a very good forward, but isn’t worth more than $7 million per year. If he doesn’t accept that amount, what about offering him a 6th year? I simply don’t think he wants to be here beyond this season, and that being the case, thanks for the 06-07 season Marian and good luck elsewhere.

This isn’t the first time, and won’t be the last that this team isn’t a top player’s first choice for free agency among the 30 NHL teams. I’m sure we can all come up with a list of 10 better opportunities for free agents than Atlanta. At this point in time, the cons outweigh the pros by a sound margin particularly in light of the ownership/management situation.

This isn’t a Hossa-specific problem. Just review the unrestricted free-agent signings since the lockout and see the kind of players the Thrashers attract. Todd White, Ken Klee, Bobby Holik, Eric Perrin, Joel Kwiatkowski, Karel Pillar, Scott Mellanby, Johan Hedberg, Steve Rucchin, Glen Metropolit, Mike Boulton, Mike Dunham and Jon Sim. Some very capable NHL playerson that list — but none are the caliber of Hossa.

By Seasontickets

February 14, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this

I agree with fokov, but there is no way Hossa signs with the Thrashers untill these owners are willing to spend all the money available under the cap.

By ranallo10

February 14, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this

It’s funny how so many issues with this franchise could be fixed by a few people making a tough (but likely profitable) decision of opening their wallet. unfortunately those people deciding to keep their wallet closed are subsequently driving the people away that line their pockets currently.

The ASG needs to learn this at some point in time, I hope they do soon.

By Tom

February 14, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this

Look, I have cheered Hossa-Hossa over the past few years, and think the world of the guy. Pure class.

But the history of the Thrashers has been weak up the middle and defensively.

Hossa has said on the record one of his criteria is a 1st line center. Lets face it, Waddell has a hard time finding a weak second line center willing to come to ATL.

I agree that Hossa is a shooting machine and his output will be hard to replace, but we also have to recognize the fact that if we were to have kept Hossa we had to have done it last summer with a 1st line center free agent signing. We failed and he made his decision.

It is not rocket science. Now Donny Waddell has a choice to make. Whether to put the interests of the Thrashers ahead of his future job prospects.

Last year Waddell put his job security ahead of the long term future of the team.

I would be surprised if he did differently this time.

Which leads me to believe that he will softly shop Hossa, fail to get a worthy offer, and use that as an excuse to keep him for the playoff drive.

Then if we make the playoffs, Waddell will keep his GM job and Hossa will sign with a top caliber team and make his 8.5 million while the Thrashers continue on as a mediocre team.

By LAC

February 14, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this

Craig… PLEASE ask DUMB waddell when HE plans to resign… I would like an answer from the MAN who has screwed NHL hockey in Atlanta to the point it may crumble.

These owners and waddell have ZERO interest in the FANS, THE TEAM and MOST OF ALL WINNING AND PUTTING A SOLID PRODUCT ON THE ICE !

waddell is a cheap idiot who who could not park a car correctly.

Then these WORTHLESS owners… Geez

If Hossa walks or get traded I believe my interest will wane in the Thrashers, at leastuntil we have a REAL GM and a REAL OWNER who has the GUTS to get a deal done like in Washington, guess Kovy will leave next, then who next ?

I really hope the FANS quit going for awhile and maybe… just maybe these owners will wake up.

BTW…. still waiting for that LIAR rutherford snydel to be a man, And HE said they were doing everything to win The Cup, yet again ANOTHER LIE by a group of LIARS who know nothing about professional sports, and at the very least waddell MUST BE FIRED !!!!

Come on Craig ask waddell when HE’s leaving town for good, he is awful !

By IYKWIM

February 14, 2008 5:52 PM | Link to this

Don Waddell will most likely deal Hossa for a ton of hot prospects and high draft picks. This whole “I’d rather make the playoffs” ploy is simply to extract more value for Hoss.

The problem with Atlanta isn’t just the about the management. I mean what really needs to happen is for Atlanta to become a more “touristy” place. I mean the city doesn’t even have SIDEWALKS. Take a look at other large cities and you’ll see that they invest a lot of time and effort to provide beautiful active-living outdoor venues to go to. Nice parks, seawalls, etc… Invest a little time in these things and suddenly the standard of living becomes so much more attractive to UFA’s.

By R. Stroz

February 14, 2008 5:55 PM | Link to this

ranallo10 - Well done.

The owners want the Thrasher fans to invest in each year’s team before they do in the form of ticket packages.

This scenario presents no business risk to the owners and subsequently has presented a poor return on investment.

The only risk in the current business model is to the ticket package holders. When Thrashers management starts selling the tickets for .50 to .75 cents on the dollar after the season starts, the ticket package holders instantly lose 50% of their investment in the team. So what incentive does the ticket package holder have to purchase tickets before the season at full price.

NONE

By GSU-Lee

February 14, 2008 5:59 PM | Link to this

I’m so over Hossa. “I do want to stay…i don’t want to stay” whatever. Screw him. Get him out of here for someone who actually wants to be here. Bye-bye Hossa, thanks for being the biggest fan letdown in Atlanta sports. Who’s the next big name to leave atlanta sports for more money? mark Teixiera.

By Andy S

February 14, 2008 6:04 PM | Link to this

I’m with Sara; if we keep Hossa for the rest of the year and make the playoffs with his help, then we did “get something out of him.” First off, we already have years of excellent and entertaining play out of him (remembering chanting “Hoss-a Hoss-a” at the first Ottawa game in Atlanta after the trade gives me shivers). Secondly, we won our division and made the playoffs for the first time in team history. If we make the playoffs again this year, I’d say we definitely got something from him.

What would you even trade him for that would be worth another Hossa? Prospects? Hell no. He is the top UFA on the market this deadline; if no one else out there is worth a Hossa, then you keep him. It’s that simple. The only difference between picking up Tkachuk last year and keeping Hossa this year is how the price is defined. Last year we paid for Tkachuk by giving up prospects, this year we will pay for Hossa by not picking up any prospects.

By Craig Custance

February 14, 2008 6:09 PM | Link to this

Tom: You bring up a great point. Marian has handled this whole situation with class. He’s dealt with prying media members like myself, who won’t leave him alone, with class. And he’s also been considerate of the fans and the organization throughout all of this. I think, that’s why most fans respect the tough decision he has to make.

By Seasontickets

February 14, 2008 6:10 PM | Link to this

It’s funny to me when Hossa was being wined & dinned by the ASG and sitting front row at the Hawks game his first remark was “it’s nice talking to powerful people”.If these owners were powerful people they would spend enough in areas on this team (defense)to make this product better than .500…. happy v-day

By R. Stroz

February 14, 2008 6:17 PM | Link to this

Here’s is my greatest concern on keeping Hossa.

**After February 26, do we get to watch Hossa (the way he has played the last ten games or so) or Hossa lite (the way he played the first part of the season)?

My guess is we watch Hossa lite. Why? Because he has already shown that he has the capacity to play at a higher level than he has done most of the season, will no longer be showing his goods because he knows he isn’t going anywhere, and will be playing not to get injured.

So the next question is can the team with Kovy at less than 100% due to his knee and Hossa showing up as Hossa lite get this team into the playoffs?

Probably not.

By GSU-Lee

February 14, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this

Yeah i hear you Craig, with class and all. If the guy doesn’t want to be here then he should leave. I just wish he did want to be here because everyone on this blog likes him. He is a fan favorite and even if the team isn’t perfect this year I don’t think they are far off. If he doesn’t want to be here though he should just say it, and then everyone can move on and that will be that. At the same time, I wish Arthur Blank would be the team. Does he know anything about hockey? no. BUt does he spen as much as possible to put the best team he can out there? Yes.

By NASCAR Dave

February 14, 2008 6:22 PM | Link to this

HOSS WON’T RESIGN?

WORST KEPT SECRET EVER!!!

WE KNEW THAT MONTHS AGO!

MAYBE NOW THE NAIVE FANS WILL SNAP OUT OF DREAMLAND AND QUIT FOOLING THEMSELVES INTO THINKING HE WILL STAY HERE.

CAN WE AT LEAST STOP TALKING ABOUT HIM UNTIL HE IS FINALLY TRADED?

I’M HONESTLY GETTING TIRED OF HEARING ABOUT IT.

GO THRASHERS!

By Andy S

February 14, 2008 6:28 PM | Link to this

Ugh, “we didn’t get anything for Heatley in the long run” is such a stupid argument. We got Hossa who has shown himself to be truly an all-star while he was here. Heatley signed his long-term contract, sure. But had Atlanta kept him, he could sign anywhere besides Atlanta just like Hossa can now.

Stroz: If we keep Hoss after the 26th, he knows that his value to other teams after July 1 is partially tied to how well he performs until then. Do you think he can go to another GM and say “Oh, that? I was taking it easy” and keep his high price? I don’t think so. Professional athletes aren’t like us; they always play to win. That’s a big part of the mindset that makes them who they are.

By ToF

February 14, 2008 6:32 PM | Link to this

Hokie If we used the money freed up by Hossa walking to sign some righteous free agentry, I would be stoked. Problem with that is our history with luring free agents. Sorry to say, but when Bobby Holik and Steve Rucchin are as big of free agents as your franchise has landed, the prospect of Campbell and Vermette is, well, bleak. That is why I want to trade Hossa. Think of it this way, we could potentially land a first round pick in this years draft (a possible straight to the NHL player too). Then, we still have the money that was Hossa’s contract to sign free agents with. Also, with Holik and Ruccin’s contracts are coming off at the end of the year. That will free up some cash too.

By sisu

February 14, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this

This is a sad day indeed, but I think Hossa has been waiting to see if any moves would be made. SO now the team will lose one of it’s top two players. The only thing left is what will they “replace” Hossa with? The money is there but will they actually spend it?

As to season tickets, I think many will wait and see what happens, you can always buy a season ticket at the beginning of the season!

By R. Stroz

February 14, 2008 6:49 PM | Link to this

Andy S - Looks like we will agree to disagree on this issue. I’m ok with that; however, please ponder these questions?

If you have 7+ million per year for 5+ years riding on your ability to get thru the season without getting hurt, might you be somewhat careful in your style of play?

You will probably depend on that 35+ million to get you thru the rest of your life. Are you going to chance that on a franchise that refused to give you a chance to win the Cup?

By UOIG

February 14, 2008 7:04 PM | Link to this

HOSER MIGHT NOT RESIGN - THERE IS A NEWS FLASH. HIS LAID BACK UNDER ACHIEVIVING EFFORT WILL COST HIM THE EXTRA $$ HE THINKS HE WILL GET ELSEWHERE. JUST THINK - HE WOULD HAVE TROUBLE LIVING ON WHAT $35M WOULD BRING IF HE WERE TO GET HURT MAKING AN EFFORT WITH HIS CURRENT PLAY.

By Christy

February 14, 2008 7:05 PM | Link to this

everyone realizes that this is all a Catch-22, right? Tom makes a good point, Sara counters with another, R. Stroz hits the nail on the head, Andy S. makes a master observation…

Trade Hossa to a team with a good chance to make a push for the Cup and they are not going to give us a top-pair d-man or a 2nd-line center or forward because they need THEM for the stretch run. Is Hossa worth less than that? prospects - no thank you. unproven commodities - been there, done that. Maybe a rookie that his played unbelievable - but who’s going to give that up?

Keep Hossa, lose him to free-agency and rely on DW to use the money for another quality UFA, but that UFA will not want to come to a city where there is Kovy, Ensrom and Kari and that’s it…

I don’t think there’s a solution that will please everyone, or even a majority. I’d just as soon keep him and see how far we can go.

By R. Stroz

February 14, 2008 7:12 PM | Link to this

UOIG - I’m not saying that is the right way for Hossa to look at the situation, I’m saying that is the lower risk scenario for Hossa to land the last huge contract of his career.

By Brendan

February 14, 2008 7:24 PM | Link to this

I like the “trade scenario” presented by Russ and echoed by Jen for Hossa, with Vancouver. But, I am also on record as saying “I’d settle for a slew of ‘quality’ draft picks.” Truly, in the hands of a capable GM, two mid-1st rounders and two 3rd rounders could eventually turn into four (4) players in our starting lineup, with drafts as DEEP as these next two (2008 & 2009) appear to be.

I will echo Hokie’s sentiment that … $8 million is a lot to pay a player (Hossa) who disappears in the playoffs, especially when a 12-year / $121.2M contract is something Kovalchuk can command AND GET from many GM’s in this league.

Folks, Kovalchuk has to be re-signed. Period, the end. If the Thrashers re-sign Hossa, at $8 million, how will they re-ink Kovy? Think about it. THINK HARDER.

As for Lehtonen, Craig, I’m comfortable only with a 2-3 year deal, at $2.5M per season. This way, if he turns out to be the “backup” goalie, we’re not drastically OVERPAYING for that.

Folks, that fact is … Lehtonen has not done enough to command some 5-year deal, at anything more than $3.0M per year. He’s played one (1) healthy season. He’s played two (2) playoff games, with a 5.59 GAA. Until he puts this team up on his shoulders and CARRIES IT, without “mental lapses,” CONSISTENTLY, I suspect I shall always think this way about #32.

I hope that he will, EVENTUALLY, live up the “expectations” of a 2nd overall pick. But he’s got to be the one who does it. Now, it’d be “nice” if Don Waddell brought in some defensive help on the blueline. Kari shouldn’t have to face 40 shots a night. He’s not “Helen Keller.” He shouldn’t have to be a “miracle worker.”

By Tom

February 14, 2008 7:35 PM | Link to this

Craig

Thanks for the kind words and I agree that Hossa has been a classy guy. What concerns me is the disconnect between the ownership, management, and the fans what is best for the long term interest of the team and the city.

I think that Waddell did the right thing last season spending the farm getting us to the playoffs.

I also think that doing the same thing for the team this year will hurt the team in the long run.

For a baseball analogy, we are a small market team that through good drafting and smart development can be a contender every 3-4 years. We are not in a position to pay Yankee or Red Sox type salaries to the players, or be such an appetizing place to come play.

Lets face it, the ATL is not an endorsement paradise for players to supplement their salaries or create a mystique about their persona to bring them in for anything less than top dollar.

So our GM has to be brutally honest with the fan base and the ownership to be effective. I do not think that over the years Donny has been forthright about our position in the marketplace.

And that is why barely making the playoffs is his goal every year and why we will not be a much better team.

By Brendan

February 14, 2008 8:05 PM | Link to this

Tom, Russ, Sage and Bob, let me ask you guys something. Would you “agree” that, PERHAPS, the only person in the ENTIRE THRASHERS ORGANIZATION to ‘challenge’ Don Waddell’s vision, scope, and authority … has been Marian Hossa?

Stop. Doesn’t everyone ELSE endlessly blow ‘sunshine’ up his posterior? Or at least remain as silent as a Christmas mouse? (As in, “not a creature was stirring.”)

Have you EV-VER heard a Thrashers owner, in the past two and a half years, ‘threaten’ Don Waddell’s job? Have you ever heard an assistant coach or associate coach reject or rebut any notion that Don Waddell sets forth? Had you EV-VER heard Bernie Mullin (now no longer with the Atlanta Spirit Group,) say, “We’re really keeping DW on a short-leash. He’s going to be held ‘accountable?’”

Welllllll. Isn’t the answer to all those questions, “No.” But Marian Hossa challenges him. Hossa publicly says, on 680TheFan, “For me, it’s no longer about the money. The reason I haven’t signed yet is because of the direction of the team. I only get to be a free agent once in my career. I have to make sure I choose the right team.”

Well, that sure sounds like he doesn’t believe in Blueland or Don Waddell. It ALSO sounds like 5-years/$35 million is hardly on the table. Try 8-years/$64 million on for size. And trust me when I tell you … Hossa’s agent is looking out for his commission!! It’s his job to get the maximum amount of salary and years for his client. There are teams who will spend $64 million over 8 years for Hossa.

By R. Stroz

February 14, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this

Brendan - Part of my post earlier today touched on the same issue:

Hossa could actually really help Atlanta fans by forcing the owners to field a better team.

I think Hossa is covertly telling Thrasher fans that they are getting screwed by the owners and DW, and Hossa for one, is no longer willing to be part and parcel.

A .500 team, higher season ticket prices, and premiere players heading out of town: Let the Revolution Begin!

By Gsu-Lee

February 14, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this

Andy S, “If we keep Hoss after the 26th, he knows that his value to other teams after July 1 is partially tied to how well he performs until then. Do you think he can go to another GM and say “Oh, that? I was taking it easy” and keep his high price? I don’t think so. Professional athletes aren’t like us; they always play to win. That’s a big part of the mindset that makes them who they are.”

• That is agreat point, and my original prediction was that they would keep him. I think the team’s chances of making the playoffs are better if he stays, therefore DW’s job would be safer.

By Bob

February 14, 2008 9:32 PM | Link to this

Tom, Russ, Sage and Bob, let me ask you guys something. Would you “agree” that, PERHAPS, the only person in the ENTIRE THRASHERS ORGANIZATION to ‘challenge’ Don Waddell’s vision, scope, and authority … has been Marian Hossa?

yepper. it’s been plainly clear to anyone paying attention since last summer, that hoss wanted out of here. i can’t believe there’s a few of you left up there that don’t get it, he will be traded, you’re going to be severely disappointed if you don’t understand that. goodness, he waited until after his last home game to finally come clean and tell the fans what’s up, he is not signing here. he hedged his bet a little in the small chance that waddell keeps him, which he won’t waddell will trade him, and rightly so.

By Brendan

February 14, 2008 9:34 PM | Link to this

R.Stroz, I didn’t mean to overlook that. Thank you for pointing that out.

Gang, I just finished reading the “Q&A with MArian Hossa,” and two things struck me from that article. One is … it sounds like Hossa’s agent has been telling Don Waddell what he wants, but Don hasn’t been willing to agree to the terms.

Ummn, at this point, it’s very, very difficult to ascertain who’s telling the TRUTH about what, here. If Hossa’s Agent, Ritch Winter, told DW, “We’ll re-sign, but only for 8-years/$64 million,” I would think Don Waddell would have gone to the ASG by now to tell them, “This is the ‘stumbling block.’ Give me the money. Or, “This is the stumbling block, I think we should hold out for the trade deadline and accept the highest bid for Hossa, with the idea that a longterm contract for Kovalchuk is the TOP PRIORITY for the coming years, not Hossa. Especially at this price and length of contract.”

If it’s the latter, then Hossa is just asking for his “fair market value” for his FINAL CONTRACT. Why all this couldn’t have been hashed out last Summer, I don’t have any answers. Waddell maybe could have gotten more ‘value’ for Hossa then. Perhaps, even enough value that the Southeast Division might be all but sewn up by now. Bygones.

IT is what it is. The time for making ‘offseason moves’ ended in September. We’re living with the consequences of those actions, and inaction. Now, before you accuse me of being negative. With Hossa, we’re tied for 1st place. With Hossa, we’re going to compete right down to the end. We might only wind up 3-4 games over .500, but that might just be ‘enough’ to win this division. I would think that most Thrashers fans want that.

However, I don’t blame the Thrasher fans who DON’T WANT THAT. I don’t call them “bad fans.” Such fans are dissatisfied with merely making the playoffs or winning a ‘weak division.’ They want to SELL for the longterm benefit of the team. They want to stockpile draft picks and start over to build a team that might challenge for the Cup, instead of merely challenging for a division title in a weak division, in hopes of procuring the 1st-ever playoff win in franchise history, in YEAR EIGHT.

I understand both positions. I think everyone is permitted to sit in any of these two camps, and still be “good fans.” But I’m “tolerant” like that.

By jen

February 14, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this

The other thing to consider here is regardless of freed up cap space, as other s have pointed out, its also about who is willing to come here. Only one other team in the league has a coach/gm in place, and its pretty obvious they are as mediocre as we are.

Plus this year’s UFA crop is pretty thin on what our most pressing needs are. There isn’t really anyonce coming up at center who is the game breaker we need. There are some good dmen (Campbell, Vermette, Liles) set to become free agents, but if you could choose between playing for DW and playing for the Great One, come one or Denis Savard, I think that’s a pretty easy decision.

I’m not knocking the ‘Heatly Value’ principle…full kudos to DW for making chicken salad out of that, but I want to see return for value, and as much as I love Hossa (and has has been great as a Thrasher), I don’t think its worth the future of the franchise to keep him around when he is worth a heck of a lot on the open market. If it comes back to bite us in the playoffs, to be honest, I’d be happy that we were there to begin with.

By 12345

February 14, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this

Well I agree Mr.Snydel has to be called out by Atlanta fans.

LAC is right, he Lied to everyone opening night and has hid like a coward since. He DOES need his a* whipped in front of the entire arena.

I think we should chant “NEW OWNERSHIP” at the next game, them we would for sure get a real NHL GM who is set on building this team rather than totally F—-ing it up since the start !

By Brendan

February 14, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this

Carolina and TB both won in regulation time tonight. So, we’re no longer tied for 1st place.

By ToF

February 14, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this

What if we were to give Kari a short term deal at a (slightly) higher price. Say 2 years at 3.25, or something of the like. It would be a statement from management saying “we like ya kid, but we don’t quite trust ya yet. Would you mind proving us wrong.” If he keeps playing the way he has been lately for the rest of the season and into next season, we can then extend him to a big boy deal

By Tom

February 14, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this

Brendan

Excellent post. I am a passionate fan. I watch a minimum of 70 games a year, last year I missed only 3.

And your point of Hossa being the bellwether is right. So quickly we forget Mellanby earlier this year saying the same thing.

I am so passionate that I created firewaddell.com just to light a fire under the team thinking that a site such as that might, just might, wake up the team.

But here is the ugly side of the truth, I gave up my tickets last year. Inaugural seat tickets. Have not been to a game live this year.

It is killing me, but I know in my heart that the team needs to wake up and recognize who they are and what they are.

The ugly truth is Heatly, Hossa, and Kolvachuk did not ask to come to Atlanta. They were drafted or traded for.

We have never signed a top level free agent in our history.

We do not have the compelling story to bring in the best.

There is 2 ways to bring in the best.

1. Pay for it. Pay through the nose and be absolutely honest about it. Like the bald and overwieght middle age man with a ravishing 25 year old on his arm, you know he is either a hell of a salesman or is paying for it.

or

1. Create a compelling environment that players want to come. That typically is a hell of a coach who will develop the skills of a player to a new level, think Leo Mazzone as pitching coach of the Braves. Or a cast of players that will have a history of success at such a level that a player is willing to come for the chance of winning the Stanley Cup.

Right now the present ownership and management is doing neither. They are picking up the bargains, or worse perceived bargains, while accepting mediocrity.

So if Hossa comes in and says I want 6 years at 8 million to sign, either cowboy up or trade him while you have some worth. You will not get him for 5 years and 35 million. Ain’t gonna happen.

I am rambling tonight only because I care. Atlanta will support and pay for a winner. When I moved here in 1991 I watched the Braves play to an empty stadium in June and a packed house in September. They will pay through the nose to be with a winner.

The hockey junkies will pay irregardless. So hike up the ticket prices and gouge them. Some will leave, others will give it a go, and the corporate types will buy empty seats.

But to have a winner in a non traditional market you have to pay. Pay the top 5 players 50 percent of the salary. They will attract others who want to win. Do not let guys like Metro walk or be traded. Get the heart and soul guys to come and play for a place in the NHL. Have the talent to support young guys from the minors to make mistakes.

But you have to pay for the stars more than they will make in Detroit and New York. You have to, no if, ands, or buts.

God I am a fan of the Thrashers as a team, but management and ownership has to understand their role to create a winner.

By The Other Jim_Bob

February 14, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this

Turn out the lights,

The parties over,

All good Hossers must leave in the end,

Thank you for the good times,

Best of luck our Slovakian friend.

By ToF

February 14, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this

Brindamore’s out for 4-6 months That really sucks if you are a ‘Canes fans, but is good for us (and the rest of the division). Carolina lost one of the games BEST face off men and and major leader. It’d be like losing Holik if he could still skate.

By ToF

February 14, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this

edit: if Holik could play. Brindamore also leads the canes in scoring (thank god i’m not a cane fan)

By R. Stroz

February 14, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this

I am so passionate that I created firewaddell.com just to light a fire under the team thinking that a site such as that might, just might, wake up the team.

Tom - You’re the man!

Hopefully, my quote in the ajc about season ticket prices will resonate.

There are some heavy hitters on the same boat concerning the season ticket fiasco, for example The Falconer and Stan Hauseman.

The natives are getting restless.

By Big_Bill

February 14, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this

I have to say Marian has handled this with CLASS and has been a fine example of what a professional player should be.

With that being said, I cannot say the same for Waddell or ASG, They have NO class, they have NO idea of how to operate a professional franchise and could care less about the paying customer, us Fans !

Don Waddell has been here how long now ? Too Long, he has us no better than several years ago, we are old, slow and sign the most worthless UFA’s I have ever seen.

So what now ? More Waddell S—T ? More 5 year plans ? More screwed draft picks ? More retread UFA’s nobody else wants ? More of the same worthless product we see game after game. I say that, because The Atlanta Thrashers should be ten times better than they are currently are.

Will we see more 40+ players just playing out their careers or more Todd White’s who to be honest have been a bust.

Why did we give Holik and Rucchin so much and let Savard walk ? We could have kept a guy who is near the top of the league in assists rather than a very, very AVERAGE PLAYER AND ONE WHO DID NOTHING EXCEPT COLLECT A BIG FAT PAYCHECK…

So what does this say to the fans… ASD simply does not care, about the fans, the team, or winning… To the winners go the spoils, I guess these little boys do not understand this.

Under these very cheap owners and Don Waddell’s inability to be a good GM, this team will be nothing more than point fodder for the GOOD teams of the NHL… Why because the owners do not give a damn about the team or the fans who pay the bills… Would be nice to have an OWNER for a change !

By Brendan

February 14, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this

Tom & R.Stroz, I just hope … that just because the ‘natives are getting restless’ that it doesn’t send Don Waddell to the prospect-sacrificing, draft pick-surrendering, future-squandering table. Someone has to look out for the future of this team.

It’s pretty clear that the ownership doesn’t have a handle on the GM position. It’s that, or they just don’t care. Or, said another way, they care only about maintaining ‘the value’ of their franchises.

Folks, I can’t prove it. And never will be able to. But I suspect the ASG gets somewhere between $10-12 million in revenue-sharing. So, if their budget, for 3/4ths of the season, is $42.5 million, and they make about $39.5 million, then they lost $3 million, roughly. But they got compensated by $10 million. So, they actually made $7 million. If they gamble at the trade deadline and max out the cap, they took on another $4-5 million, in an attempt to garner “FREE MONEY” in the form of playoff revenue.

So? So things are never going to change with this kind of mentality driving the ship. We’ll be teased all year long, flirting with playoffs. All in hopes of winning a game or two in the postseason. Is that, “Doing whatever it takes to win the Stanley Cup?”

By R. Stroz

February 14, 2008 11:57 PM | Link to this

After reading comments on the Nasty Nest site, they aren’t pleased with the price increase either.

I have a solution for the ticket package holders and the ASG:

Rebate the ticket package holders the difference between the price we paid and the discounted game prices in the form of a reduction off our new ticket package plans. If we paid $55.00/ticket and the ASG later sold that ticket stratum at $27.50/ticket, the ticket package holder would receive a credit of 27.50 for each $55.00 ticket purchased. This credit would be applied toward the upcoming year ticket package amount. Therefore if we had 40 tickets at $55.00/ticket which the ASG later reduced to $27.50/ticket, we would receive a credit of $1100.00 toward the upcoming year ticket package amount.

This same formula would also be applied to other discounted ticket amounts.

Seems fair to me.

By R. Stroz

February 15, 2008 12:06 AM | Link to this

Sara & Billsen - Please forward my solution concerning the ticket packages to the Nasty Nesters and see what they think of the idea.

By Nix

February 15, 2008 12:13 AM | Link to this

This is off topic, but I’ve just been catching up on the posts tonight and saw that Brendan said his catchphrase - it is what it is - again earlier tonight. It caught my notice b/c on NPR’s Morning Edition this morning, they actually had a segment on the phrase and what it means, thanks to the steroid hearings on Capitol Hill. It’s a good [read/listen] (http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=18974664) if ya’ll want a break from hockey talk.

By Brendan

February 15, 2008 2:24 AM | Link to this

Nix, I always thought the origins of it (“It is what it is.”) stemmed from the Clinton-Lewinsky hearings, when the former President said, “That depends on what the definition of ‘is’ is.” There is a rather aggressive theory of linguistics, advanced by French philosopher/sociologist Jacques Derida, called “deconstructionism.” Without getting too complicated about it, it basically advances this notion: “All reality is wholly dependent on language as the medium to experience it. But … language is unstable, constantly in flux, and re-defining itself, such that, technically, there is and can be no meaning. Every word must be defined by other words, which have other possible meanings.” So on, and so forth. Just uhh, think of policians … in an election year. Shouldn’t be too hard.

Now, wasn’t that exciting to learn? So, in a nutshell, all reality depends on language, then this guy makes language DESTROY ITSELF, incrementally. Which reminds me of another popular sentiment on this blog: “The incremental progress” of this team since its inaugural season.

At this rate, we’re “guaranteed” to win a Stanley Cup in 16 years. It starts with one (1) playoff win this year. Then two (2) next year. Then … well. You get the picture.

Nix, I thought my catch-phrase was sign-n-trade and sweetener. I guess, I, too, am constantly “in flux and redefining myself.” That Jacques Derida! What a heck of a guy!

By Brendan

February 15, 2008 2:36 AM | Link to this

Err, make that “politicians.” I’m not sure what “policians” are, even in an advanced linguistical sense.

By LPF

February 15, 2008 2:48 AM | Link to this

All I can say hockey here is a mess.

The owners are screwballs without brains, a GM who only three times a week can even tie his shoes and a team that should, should be better by far and running away in the SE.

Many have said it in the blogs, these owners do not care one bit about the fans or winning. They are cheap to the core and have no guts to dump a poor at best GM in favor of one who will put the pieces back togather, not that they were ever in one piece anyhow under these bozo’s.

My season tickets will not be renewed, and that is sad. But when the ownership lies to the fans and does not even attempt to put a good product on the ice.

Plain and simple these simpletons who run this operation need to get a life away from pro sports, because boys till you drink at the bar and play with the big boys, you wil be losers forever and with these punks we will be as cheap as cheap can be… I just hope more empty seats get your attention, because common sense sure is not one of your guys strong points !

By ]effadams#2

February 15, 2008 5:22 AM | Link to this

I hope somebody reads this and posts it in a more appropriate place.

I feel the passion of the fans in Atlanta, and it is to you who I write this.

I have been a rabid NHL hockey fan for many moons and sit here now in Vancouver BC. I do not publish my opinions often but I must take the time to say this to you now because. I truly care for every hockey fan and player, at any age or skill level, and I fear what may specifically happen to the game of hockey in your area.

History is repeating. NHL team relocation is coming soon. Your hometown team is in the cross-hairs.

If you do not act soon the Atlanta Thrashers franchise will be relocted to a perceived better market. If you, the passionate hockey fan in Atlanta, do not support your team with a form of directed positive creative energy, you will soon be left without the NHL in your city. You must proactively strengthen the connection between the game and the region at all levels.

At this point your main concern is not with who owns the local team - or who the management consits of, but how you collectively can focus the outcome of your city’s NHL existance. You! are the consumer and do influence the outcome of your purchase. To lose the Thrashers is to lose any hope of the game you love being widely accessible in your market.

NHL teams that have relocated in the last 30 years [that includes Atlanta’s first NHL go around] do so when there is turmoil, empty seats, little enthusiasm and greener pastures elsewear. At present the Atlanta Thrashers fit all four criteria.

You must change that now or your city will be without NHL hockey for, at minimum, the next generation. The power of those who read this can directly influence the business and the culture your team and the sport of hockey in Georgia. Sadly, if you do not do that right now, you will act too late to save what you have.

Goodluck to all hockey fans. Jeff Adams. Vancouver BC.

By Fred

February 15, 2008 7:27 AM | Link to this

I think, Sadly, Jeff Adams is probably correct. Look at Nashville, who seems to have Narrowly averted relocation. And as it pains me to admit, the Preds have year in and year out, been a much better team than the thrashers

By B. Thenet

February 15, 2008 8:23 AM | Link to this

The Preds have been a better team, but Atlanta has had better attendance.

Imagine how much better the Thrashers attendance would be if we had a team as successful as the Preds over the past 4 years.

Look, the only thing that is changed since last week is one of the parties involved has said in public what we already knew. Hossa is not going to sign here, so we had better trade him for as many players that can helps us right now and 2-4 years from now as possible.

By GaVaHokie

February 15, 2008 8:27 AM | Link to this

Ugh… I’m tired of talking in circles over this. Let’s have more fun. Who can come up with the best trade scenario? I’ll start… and one that I’ve never mentioned before.

Hossa to Anaheim for Bertuzzi and the Edmonton first round draft pick (that Anaheim got from the Dustin Penner train robbery).

By Jim

February 15, 2008 8:36 AM | Link to this

Looks like DW is once again in a very weak negotiating position. Not sure if he puts himself there with “brinksmanship” negotiating style or the reluctance of owners to commit to deals early on. But this is Audette all over again. Now we’ll get a little bit in a “rent a player” deal for Hoss. DW better get working on a long term deal for Kari. Once again, when the playoffs near, teams tighten up on defense and goalies start to stand out as the key to winning. Kari Lehtonen is the key component to long term success for this team. Wrap him up. See ya Hoss. You were classy and fun to watch but you didn’t give us 100% every night out.

By Jeff

February 15, 2008 8:43 AM | Link to this

From everything I hear on XM Home Ice Hosaa and his agent have yet to make a counter offer to the Thrashers. You can not negotiate with yourself. With no counter off I would say Hossa does not plan on being here so trade him and get the best possible deal you can. The in the summer use Hossa’s money to sign a free agent.

By Red Light

February 15, 2008 9:02 AM | Link to this

Hokie: A 32-year-old winger with back problems and a No. 1 for Hossa? Not enough, his last really good year was 02-03. You must insist upon young (under 25), current NHL players and a draft pick or two.

By Russian

February 15, 2008 9:13 AM | Link to this

I am thinking that Don will keep Hossa to end of season and let him go after that. Why???!!!

Let see my points. 1. We are still running to first place on SE division and actually we can get it. Hossa, Kozlov and Perrin had very good chemistry already and Don did not want to break it.

1. Hossa wants to play with PO games. Well good point! Don will tell him that Hoss play your best hockey and we will be in PO. Any way he is under contract here.

I am just filling that happend here. We have to win today.

By Alan

February 15, 2008 10:04 AM | Link to this

Hey Jeff, welcome to the blog.

I don’t think you’re right, in the sense that the Thrashers face relocation.

First and foremost, (last time I heard, anyway) Atlanta is the 9th largest sports market in the NHL. The Flames relocation was different, in that the team was owned by a real estate mogul and the real estate market took a dump back in those days, while this team is owned by a conglomerate clusterfuck, similar to that of Toronto’s Leafs. The only difference, is there isn’t pending litigation regarding Toronto’s ownership. Which is the second reason Atlanta won’t relocate in the near future. The pending litigation also explains why we’re not signing players to very lengthy contracts, and probably why we can’t attract any top tier free agents. Waddell is almost forced to “build through the draft” for that reason. And for that reason, I believe that’s why Atlanta almost appears to be in a constant state of rebuilding, despite a playoff berth last year.

Lastly, I believe the NHL won’t let an Atlanta relocation happen. Remember, the board of governors has the final thumbs up/thumbs down say on whether any team is bought and sold, any plans for relocation, etc. That’s also why Basillie will never own a current NHL franchise. Hamilton, Ont may one day see a franchise, and I would be more than happy to see more NHL clubs in Canada. But that franchise will come from expansion, not from moving Nashville or Florida or Tampa… or whatever team is currently rumored to move.

By Fred

February 15, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

Hoss to the Avs for Paul Stastny and John Michael Liles. It isn’t going to help a whole lot, with Stastny on IR, but Liles is a very good young d man, and it will help ALOT in years to come. Plus its a western conference team

By Alan

February 15, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this

I’m sick today and mixed up my first and last points. Hopefully you all will get the connection I was trying to make with all of that.

By Bob

February 15, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this

wow Tom, great post, every single word of it.

The few left around here that just don’t ‘get it’, should read and re-read that post until you do. that is the reality of this club and the hoss situation, folks.

the best thing we can do now is to hold this management accountable and not reup for tix until they get a new GM and start bringing players in.

Do not believe for 1 second that this club is in any fear of relocating. it ain’t gonna happen. This is one of the largest markets in the country, and growing. The NHL would not allow them to move. The owners own the team, Hawks, and the arena, you think they’re going to let a club that fills 42 dates a year in concession sales just leave, no way Jose.

By AL

February 15, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this

By GaVaHokie

February 14, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this

And now that I’ve said that… here’s my rebuttal… if the ownership is ready to start spending that type of cash, then DO IT!! But no one wants to see the Kovy and Hossa “dog and pony” show for the next 5-6 years. If you’re going to fill out the rest of the roster with pocket change players than, please, don’t bother signing Hossa.

MY SENTIMENTS EXACTLY!

By NASCAR Dave

February 15, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this

The few left around here that just don’t ‘get it’, should read and re-read that post until you do. that is the reality of this club and the hoss situation, folks.

WELL SAID, BROTHER BOB! THESE TYPES OF FANS ARE BEING SELFISH AND THEY ARE NOT LOOKING AT THE LONG TERM BEST INTERESTS OF THE TEAM.

IT IS WHAT IS. HOSSA HOLDS ALL THE CARDS. WADDELL HAS NO OTHER CHOICE THAN TO LET THE MAN GO FOR AN EQUAL RETURN. THAT IS OUR ONLY CHANCE TO MAKE THE PLAYOFFS!!!

THE SOONER YOU PEOPLE ACCEPT IT, THE LESS IT WILL HURT YOU WHEN IT HAPPENS! REMEMBER, THIS IS A BUSINESS….

GO THRASHERS!

By Hip Czech

February 15, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this

Hossa to Dallas for Niklas Hagman and Matt Niskanen, maybe a 2nd or 3rd round choice thrown in too…that would be my first choice.

A trade for Marleau would be second (can’t come up with specifics on that one) and a trade for Jarrett Stoll would be a 3rd choice (again, no specifics on that one).

By Davlin from Boston

February 15, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this

All i can hope is that he goes to the bruins cause im a bruins fan and we are just missing the scoring and him and marc savard together again would be awesome GO BRUINS

By Davlin from Boston

February 15, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this

All i can hope is that he goes to the bruins cause im a bruins fan and we are just missing the scoring and him and marc savard together again would be awesome GO BRUINS

By davlin from Boston

February 15, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this

All i can hope is that he goes to the bruins cause im a bruins fan and we are just missing the scoring and him and marc savard together again would be awesome GO BRUINS

By Thorburn's Thugs

February 15, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this

If I am Waddell, I am shopping:
Hossa
Holik
Zhitnik
Klee
Larsen
Slater
Doell
Sterling
Todd White
Moose Hedberg

I hope to god Waddell doesn’t give away any of our picks, either.

By Hip Czech

February 15, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

As far as relocation talks about Atlanta - check out the attendance figures for the ‘06-‘07 season:

http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/attendance?year=2007

Based on attendance alone I don’t think the Thrashers have to worry too much (yet…the ASG can mess that up if they keep increasing prices). ATL drew better than such ‘traditional’ markets as NY, NJ, Boston, Chicago, and St. Louis.

Also, I agree that the NHL WANTS a franchise here due to the size of the Atlanta market.

By GaVaHokie

February 15, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this

Red Light… problem is Anaheim is against the cap, so you have to take on some of their money for them to make room for Hossa. Bertuzzi, a young prospect and a 1st round pick (possibly top 5) is giving up too much on the Anaheim side.

By Alan

February 15, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this

I still believe the standard going rate for a player like Hossa at the deadline is a player, a prospect, and a pick. Hossa will undoubtedly pull in a first round pick. The prospect will probably be someone on the brink of making it into the NHL. and if I’m Waddell, the player will have to be one that can fix one of our glaring problems.

So for those of you keeping score at home, a trade with Montreal for Higgins, Emelin, and a first would fit the standard going rate for a man of Hossa’s caliber.

By Craig L

February 15, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this

Trade Hoss for a true #1 D-man and a second line scorer/centerman. Keep Kari until the July 1 and see what you can get compansation wise or match any offer. Trade the Moose for more scoring help and bring up the young guy and get him in the net for some games.

By GaVaHokie

February 15, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this

Fred… J.M. Liles is going to be UFA this summer as well. Stastny is great, but can’t help us in the stretch run since he’s on IR (like you said).

Hip Czech… I like the Dallas idea, I’d even take Halpern, Niskanen and a 2nd. I like Stoll also, but don’t think we’ll deal with Edmonton because they have no draft picks to offer… they lost this years 1st, 2nd, and 3rd round picks to Anaheim in the Dustin Penner deal.

I’d like to see a trade for RFA status players, that way we can’t lose them. Phil Kessel, Niskanen, Alex Edler, Dubinsky and Vermette being among my favorites.

By Hip Czech

February 15, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this

How about the irony of the Thrashers being in Montreal on the 26th with all the Montreal rumors?

That would make it easy…just switch locker rooms.

By Fred

February 15, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this

How bout Hoss for Kessel, Tuuka Rask, and a first? Then trade or let one of our top 2 goalies walk

By Hip Czech

February 15, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this

I think a deal for Vermette would have been a possibility. I wonder if it came down to Ottawa first trying to deal for Hossa and nothing worked out so instead they got Stillman?

I don’t like Liles all that much, good offensive player, but we already have one of those (Enstrom). We need a bruiser D man who can move the puck. Stastny would be great but I doubt Colorado is going to let him go (now, maybe Tyler Arnason or TJ Hensick might be a possibility).

I would have said Hossa for Brett Clark and Arnason or Hensick except Clark separated his shoulder against Anaheim the other night.

By Brendan

February 15, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this

From what I understand, there’s an “Iron-clad” 20 year lease on the Philips Arena. It is a successful revenue-generator. This is an ever-increasing market (4.25 million people). There’s ABSOLUTELY NO REASON to relocate this team … when the ONLY PROBLEM is inept decision-making by those in charge.

Folks, it’s an absolute fact that in 1999, the Atlanta Thrashers sold out 38 of 41 home games. Think there isn’t “hockey interest” here? THINK AGAIN!! What’s needed is higher competency from the top of the organization.

Once you fix ownership, then the GM position and Head Coaching positions get fixed along with it.

Imagine if Scotty Bowman had been running this team since inception, to amplify this point. Stop. Let’s not go there. I don’t need to utter another word. I think you all understand where I was headed.

Would anyone even remotely be thinking about “concerns” over relocation? Bueller? Bueller?? Bueller??? Obviously NOT!!!!! So, ummmn … how do I put this delicately? I’m not going to buy season tickets, or any ticket package, out of some “misplaced fear” that hockey might leave Atlanta. No, quite the contrary. My diminished attendance this season for Thrashers games is in hopes that the ownership receives the message.

Here’s the message: “You’re mismanaging your resources and underperforming—and there are consequences for that. Not REWARDS!!, in form of ticket renewals.”

Trust me, when this team is built well-enough to scare people with a “3-5 year window of opportunity” for winning a Stanley Cup, Philips Arena will be soldout, 38 times a year. And uhhh, I’m PRETTTTTTY SUUUURE the owners will make money. LOL! Not only from the regular season sellouts, but also from the 20-25 or so soldout playoff games they’ll host during those 3-5 years.

But, like Bob, Russ, Red Light, Sage, R.Stroz and many, many other posters have said, “It’s got to start from the top. Nothing meaningful will change until meaningul changes are made.”

PJ, can I get an “A-men” for that one? Surely, we can agree that this organization can and ought to be doing better than it is.

For the record, I think Don Waddell is a really nice and classy man, who I hope gets another chance in the NHL. I just hope that his next team will allow him to more vigorously pursue the salary cap, instead of hamstringing him with “self-imposed” budgets. As much as many bloggers wish him “good riddance!, while advising him not to let the door whack him on the posterior on the way out,” let me remind you that Don Waddell actually did a lot of good for the growth of hockey in Atlanta. He organized all sorts of charity campaigns, youth hockey camps and workshops, he did “promotions” and came up with the whole “Blueland” concept, etc. Don Waddell, I’m sure, did the best he could. And without complaint.

By JayBird

February 15, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this

Here is my trade idea:

Hossa, Kovalchuk, and Lehtonin to Edmonton for Gretzky, Messier, and Fuhr! HAHA

I’m not as well schooled as a lot of you about players on other teams, so I won’t suggest what players we should get. The type of players is a different story. We have to get younger and faster. If I’m not mistaken, we have one of the older teams in the league and it shows.

As far as Thornburn’s Thugs list, I agree except for Sterling. From the little I have seen of him, he looks like a player. Everyone else you mentioned can go as far as I’m concerned.

By NASCAR Dave

February 15, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

BRANDAN - WADDELL DID GOOD FOR THE START, BUT NOW WE SOMEONE ELSE TO CLEAN UP HIS MESS. CLEAN HOUSE.

HE’S IN OVER HIS HEAD.

By Alan

February 15, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

For the record, I think Don Waddell is a really nice and classy man, who I hope gets another chance in the NHL. I just hope that his next team will allow him to more vigorously pursue the salary cap, instead of hamstringing him with “self-imposed” budgets.

BINGO! THIS is why I’m not on the “Fire Waddell” bandwagon. Fix ownership, and the GM position is already repaired. He’s doing as best as he can with a team over five million dollars below the salary cap. He needs (or needed to, should he be canned this offseason) to pressure ownership to let him spend more in the offseason to get a stronger and more well built team on the ice.

By aaron

February 15, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this

Hossa to Anaheim for Bertuzzi and the Edmonton first round draft pick (that Anaheim got from the Dustin Penner train robbery).

GaVa, that sounds like a good scenario to me. I just suggested that on another board.

By R. Stroz

February 15, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

Alan - He needs to publicly pressure ownership to let him spend more in the offseason to get a stronger and more well built team on the ice.

By Brendan

February 15, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this

Alan, when you look at it in the aggregate, hasn’t Don Waddell had his chance? I agree that Don Waddell could potentially be doing better with more money, but he drafted 27 defensemen and only two have cracked the startling lineup. He’s made over 80 draft picks for Atlanta. Outside of the “consensus” type Top 3-5 picks, his latter round drafting is nothing to write home about. And he knew this going in, right from the ‘get go.’” He was comdemned to succeed, “draft-wise.” He knew he wasn’t getting some $70 million budget, back in 2000. It wasn’t a “mystery” to him that he’d have to build through the Draft. In fact, he stated as much! “We’ll build through the Draft. I have a 5-year plan.”

Now, I’ve always said, vis-a-vis the FREE AGENTS WALKING, that I’d very much like to hear Don Waddell’s side of the story. If ownership said, “Don’t re-sign Audette or Brunette or Staios … or Savard … or Hossa, go get someone to replace them,” that’s different. His hands were “tied.” He was just “following orders.”

By aaron

February 15, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this

What about Marleau from SJ? Maybe a change of scenery (out of a Jumbo shadow) could jumpstart his game?

By bob(other)

February 15, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

while I undewrstand the basic role of the forums in order to express opinions, have any of you looked at the standings in BOTH conferences and see how tight things are? The only team really out of it out of 30 is LA. Thus 20-25 BUYERS.This is the new reality of the NHL, salary cap, parity and it will still settle over the next few years. No team can absorb more than two or three large contracts and have any significant funds available. We might miss the playoffs, might win the Division and might even win a cup…who knows. Ottawa might not even win their division, and they have been generally regarded as the Eastern Entry from week one…the media frenzy is out of hand and frankly we are not in bad shape right now.Play the games and see what happens. When we play well, we can beat any other team.

As for Hossa, if he stays or goes it really doesn’t matter,I just don’t want to overpay and anything over $7M annually will do that. At the end of the day, it is a business.

By Boulton's Bruisers

February 15, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this

aaron — If we are dealing with San Jose, I’d rather have Big Joe Thornton. But I agree, Marleau will be the one moved from there.

Hell, i’d rather have the Hanson Bros. over some of the tools on this roster!

Sheesh!

By NASCAR Dave

February 15, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this

ALAN DON’T FORGET THIS IS NOT THE ONLY OWNERSHIP GROUP WADDELL HAS WORKED UNDER HERE.

SAME STORY, DIFFERENT OWNERS…..

GM CAN’T DRAFT RIGHT, OVERPAYS PLAYERS, AND SIGNS PLAYERS NO OTHER TEAMS WANT.

IT’S ACTUALLY QUITE AMUSING TO ME THAT HE HAS LASTED THIS LONG!!!!

By Lanny McDonald

February 15, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this

but he drafted 27 defensemen and only two have cracked the starting lineup.

LMAO! The media guide says Waddell was an excellent Defenceman in his day. Then why can’t he spot Defensive talent?

Mind-boggling to say the least.

By Nix

February 15, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this

Brendan, first off, thanks for the flashbacks to freshman philosophy. Was that payback for making you realize that you’re “in flux”?

Seriously, though, for those of you saying that we need to “fix” ownership in order to get the Thrashers on track… what does that mean for you guys? Just - not getting season tickets again next year? Even if 1/2 of current STH did that, how much of an impact will it really have? Especially given that they’re already not willing to shell out up to cap for their roster? I’m not a business and finance whiz, so I’m honestly asking.

I’m also kind of curious how fan would react to this type of situation in a hockey market that’s been around longer. If the Red Wing ownership suddenly decided not to spend up to cap and hired Waddell and he made the same type of decisions there based on the contraints put on him by ownership… what would fans do after 5 years of a mediocre product?

By GaVaHokie

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

aaron… Hossa for Marleau has always been my favorite likely scenario. I just have a feeling if Marleau goes, he’ll be going to Toronto for either Kubina, McCabe or Kaberle. San Jose is dying for defense… Ottawa already tried to move Redden to San Jose, buy he refused to waive his NTC.

How about Hossa to San Jose for Cheechoo and Pavelski?

By Fred

February 15, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this

THEY WOULD STAY HOME

By Alan

February 15, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this

NASCAR Dave - Don’t forget, in Detroit he was assistant GM. Here, he’s the head honcho. He might have worked with ownership in Detroit, but hell, that’s in Detroit. Let’s evaluate the two different owners before trying to say he’s a dismal failure and he’s the reason why the Thrashers haven’t really taken off to become the dominating force the Southeast division really needs.

By ranallo10

February 15, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this

Hokie — San Jose would be losing too much, Pavelski is their saving grace for the underperforming Cheechoo and Marleau. I think the Marleau idea would have more legs because it fits needs for both teams. Throw in Zhitnik to fill a role of 5/6 defender for SJ, and you probably could get a prospect out of them (likely not though, Atlanta would probably have to take on a contract to offset the dollars).

Based on scenarios, I still think the Kesler + defensive prospect (Bourdon probably, hopefully Edler or Bieksa) is the most fitting for Hossa, for both teams.

By aaron

February 15, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this

GaVa… That sounds like a good deal. Cheechoo looks like he’s beginning to hit his stride after his surgery; he’d be a great swap for Hoss on the wing. Pavelski looks like a good two-way center, maybe still a little green. I’d do that deal.

By aaron

February 15, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this

Ooooo… I know who we should make a play for…

Mats Sundin!

Wait a minute…

By ScottBravesfan

February 16, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this

Atlanta is actually now the 8th largest TV market and within five years they will be the 5th largest TV market. That’s right only New York, LA, Chicago, and Dallas will be bigger markets than Atlanta. Atlanta has already passed the 5 million mark and is on it’s way to 6. It is the fastest growing metro area in the United States and in a few years will be only the fifth metro area with at least 6 million people.

The Thrashers aren’t going anywhere because no way are you a major league and not have a team in this big of a market. The NHL has been wanting to get into the Houston market for years as well because it’s the second fastest growing city and in five years will be the 6th largest metro area.