Thrashers

By Paul

March 7, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this

First?

Any idea what the lines will look like for tonights game?

By R. Stroz

March 7, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this

Craig - Thanks. Sounds like you are starting to get stone walled.

On a different subject, how is the wife doing and when is the due date?

By B. Thenet

March 7, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this

I was wondering if they would give you access to the STH meeting. Don’t worry, you will get all the nitty gritty 30 minutes after the game from somebody in this very blog at the very latest.

The Wild had a very tough nasty game vs. Carolina last night, should be interesting to see how they respond tonight.

By Tony H

March 7, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this

Craig - Thanks for trying asking about attending tonight’s meeting. I assume that it was DW that shot your request down. It doesn’t make sense that everything about the Thrashers is so hush-hush (i.e. contract discussions, contract lengths, Town Hall Meetings). If anything, I would think that the ASG would want to reach out to all fans openly to show their interest and try to build a larger base. Some of us can’t really afford full season tickets but would attend more games and be more amenable to ticket and concession prices if a better product was offered.

Anyway, thanks for trying. You are doing a great job and I appreciate your work.

By Ryan

March 7, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this

If anyone is interested in watching tonights game and does not have Center Ice, I noticed you can watch on Yahoo Sports. Just thought I would throw it out there.

By Jason

March 7, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

This article from Dan Pollard of TSN is pretty telling of what the Canadian media seem to think about some of the Thrashers issues and one reason Hossa wanted out. And if you watch NHL on the Fly when he hosts, many times through the season he has spoken positively for the Thrashers. He seems to want them to get it right.

http://www.tsn.ca/tsntalent/columnists/danpollard/

By NASCAR Dave

March 7, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this

NO BIG LOSS ON WHITE. ONE LESS WIMP TO WORRY ABOUT!

I posted this on Rawhide Blog but i’ll post it here too…..

ALL Y’ALL THAT GO THERE OUGHTA WEAR FIRE WADDELL! T-SHIRTS!

I WISH TO GOD I WAS THERE - I’D GIVE WADDELL A PIECE OF MY MIND! THAT SLIMY SERPENT HE IS!

YOU OUGHTA JEER AND SNICKER AT HIS A$$ WHEN HE STARTS TELLING YOU ABOUT HOW THINGS ARE GONNA CHANGE!!!

GUESS WHAT DWAD? TOO LATE FOR THAT! YOU’RE OUTTA HERE BROTHER!

AND GOOD F#&%ING RIDDANCE!!!

CRAIG - THAT’S JUST WRONG FOR DWAD TO LOCK YOU OUT OF THAT. THE FANS HAVE A RIGHT TO KNOW!!!

By LAC

March 7, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

Gee Craig… Ignored again, Guess Sage and I are off limits for questions THAT need answers !

By J(Z)

March 7, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this

Ryan - pretty sure it’ll be blacked out in the ATL viewing area. Not positive though.

I’m pretty sure the price for Center Ice gets cut in half tomorrow. So I’ll be making a call to finally sign up!

By Old School Al

March 7, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this

I’ve said it for years; looks like I’ll have the opportunity to say it for a few more: Waddell is one of the greatest spin doctors of all-time!

I can’t stomach the arrogance of this clown. His laughable quote - “Nobody wants to hear it but we’re still a young franchise.” - smacks of indifference and more to the point - acknowledges he clearly could care less about the fans for he unquestionably understands the ASG is clueless, too.

Put this bulls——— in any other NHL town - let alone with the vipers that comprise the press corps in cities like NY; Philly; Boston; and Detroit to name a few - and how long does this buffoon last?

Talk about job security…who is he, The Pope? l

By MB

March 7, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this

Jason, I saw that same article and was about to mention it when I saw your post.

Yet another strike on our oft-mentioned inability to develop “homegrown” talent.

By DaveM

March 7, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this

This team as it stands has some talented players, but most of them are being used wrong. Just like Craig said, Todd White isn’t a 1st line center and should be expected to be one (but DW, Bob H and therefore the rest of us expect it). Zhitnik is not a #1 or #2 defensemen (but we were all told he was one and he’s was being played like one). The list goes on and on. What we need to do is get a true honest to God #1 center, at least a #1 and #3 defenseman (if not a #1 and 2) and above all a COACH.

By Alan

March 7, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this

acknowledges he clearly could care less about the fans

Whenever someone could care less it means that they care. When someone couldn’t care less it means they don’t care.

So which is it? Does Waddell care, or doesn’t he? I’m asking because so many people forget 10th grade English these days, and I’m never sure what people mean.

By Jason

March 7, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this

MB-Yeah, I was aware the Wolves were an independent franchise, but did not know that developing our prospects for the NHL wasn’t one of their top priorities. That answers quite a few questions right there. So with that being said….

Craig, who makes the decision in the Thrashers organization to affiliate with an independent minor league team, over one that is tied to us and our best interest of player development? DW, or does it go higher than that? The Wolves have been with us long before the Spirit group can on board if I remember right. Lets me think DW. But maybe it’s a money issue. Cheaper to contract out an established minor league team over running one maybe.

By ranallo10

March 7, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

Can anybody explain to me why Ottawa has been wearing their home uniforms during their last two away games (tonight in Los Angeles, and the other night in San Jose)?

By Old School Al

March 7, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this

To David M: What’s with the semantics? Do you need an etch-a-sketch to figure out ANYTHING about Waddell?

WADDELL WILL SAY ANYTHING TO ANYBODY IN AN ATTEMPT TO STEER THE BLAME AWAY FROM THE GUY WHO SOLELY CREATED THIS MESS.

Is that statement and subsequent answer clear enough?

By Russ

March 7, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this

ranallo - I’m not sure what the deal is, but I noticed the Habs were wearing their home uniforms in Phoenix last night too.

By ranallo10

March 7, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this

East teams making a Western Conference trip…that’s the only link I can see.

Did Atlanta wear their blues during the West coast trip?

By ranallo10

March 7, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this

For some interesting stats about the NHL, peruse this list from TSN.

Interesting to note is the amount of Thrashers on the list of +/- at home, and who has the worst +/- on the Road.

See for yourself.

By DaveM

March 7, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this

note: above I left out the “not” in “should not” be expected.

I’m not sure what semantics you are speaking of. I am not a Koolaid drinker, I do believe there is talent, it’s just being used wrong. Don the coach uses the pieces wrong. Don the GM hasn’t gotten us the pieces we need.

By diegohall

March 7, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this

Why are the Thrashers playing so bad right now? I will give you a few numbers:

Last 10 games.

Thrashers - Shots on goal avg = 25.8 Hurricanes - Shots on goal avg = 35.1 Capitals - Shots on goal avg = 30.9

Thrashers - Shots against avg = 37.0 Hurricanes - Shots against avg = 28.2 Capitals - Shots against avg = 29.3

Kari’s confidence has to be wrecked. He knows when he comes out every night he is gonna face close to 40 shots and a lot of those are good scoring chances due to a weak D.

By diegohall

March 7, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this

Why are the Thrashers playing so bad right now? I will give you a few numbers:

Last 10 games.

Thrashers - Shots on goal avg = 25.8 Hurricanes - Shots on goal avg = 35.1 Capitals - Shots on goal avg = 30.9

Thrashers - Shots against avg = 37.0 Hurricanes - Shots against avg = 28.2 Capitals - Shots against avg = 29.3

Kari’s confidence has to be wrecked. He knows when he comes out every night he is gonna face close to 40 shots and a lot of those are good scoring chances due to a weak D.

By Smoothie

March 7, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this

Craig — thanks for calling me out and making me look like a harda$$ for wanting more out of White! Nah, I get what you’re saying and I agree that we never should’ve expected him to play like a #1 center, but then don’t sign him to play with Kovy. Sign him to play with Kozzie and Hossa and leave him there.

Everyone who cares about this team knows full well the ASG showed it’s ignorance for low-balling Mark Savard…the many earned the chance to stay here long-term as Kovy’s center. My biggest issue with White is simply the fact he does not finish plays that even Pascal Dupuis takes care of at the net or in the slot.

If you are making 2 mill / yr, you better damn well keep your stick on the ice for a centering pass or know how to find the open net on an incredible pass from your star winger. I’ve seen Mark Recchi, who is “slaving” for $500 K, score a goal with one hand on the stick and even Bobby Holik has scored from his belly for cripe’s sake…I thought hockey players were supposed to have good eye to hand coordination!!

By Alan

March 7, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this

To David M: What’s with the semantics? Do you need an etch-a-sketch to figure out ANYTHING about Waddell?

First, can you read? I’m the one who posted the “semantics” about could/couldn’t care less. Second, what’s with the hostility? If you are resorting to hostility to make a point, you will be disregarded. I have my opinion on Waddell, and I believe I’ve mentioned it on both Rawhide’s and Craig’s blogs before. If you failed to pick that up, that’s your fault. But I’m not about to rant at someone over the internet until my fingers have blisters on them and my caps lock key (which you seem to have grown accustomed to using) is worn out.

This might be “just the internet,” but education and good etiquette still apply here. Save your whining and yelling for the meeting with Waddell. You can’t expect people to know what the hell you’re saying if you can’t say it right.

By DaveM

March 7, 2008 5:41 PM | Link to this

Alan - I think you’re mixing me up with OldSchool. I typed one word in caps “coach”. I’m not a huge fan of waddell, if we keep him I would like to see him moved up to president of hockey operations. I’m just not a fire-dw person.

By Barry

March 7, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this

I agree Craig. You can’t come back with the same 5 or 6 dmen next year and expect different results you just can’t. I think Popovic should be given a full time starters role on this team. He’s done nothing but been solid…not flashy or out of the ordinary…but solid and dependable. I really think it’s time to let XLB go. He’s outlived his usefulness on this team which is what really? The occasional physical play and big hits? He really doesn’t bring much else positive anymore. He treats the puck like a hot potato or like he’s going to get called for a 3 second violation if he holds onto it too long. I’ve seen far too many whiffs and bad passes from him. Hopefully Zhitnik can rebound next year because honestly…who will take him at his salary in a trade? Zhitnik next year is Holik this year…not worth being overpaid.

By Alan

March 7, 2008 6:17 PM | Link to this

DaveM - Nope. I’m referencing his tirade, as follows:

WADDELL WILL SAY ANYTHING TO ANYBODY IN AN ATTEMPT TO STEER THE BLAME AWAY FROM THE GUY WHO SOLELY CREATED THIS MESS.

Seriously, flying off the handle like that doesn’t make you look good - even if we’re in agreement.

By Lanny McDonald

March 7, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this

Alan — Please quit trying to be a grammar cop.

Thanks.

By Vitamin Z

March 7, 2008 7:36 PM | Link to this

Watch Atlanta vs. Minnesota game Live Now on Yahoo. Great for people without Center Ice!

By Brendan

March 7, 2008 8:04 PM | Link to this

The Minnesota Wild announcers have stressed to their fans that the Wild isn’t treating this game as a “free lunch.” Then they talked about how Minnesota is 19-11-3 when it gets a PPG. So, they really wanted to get off the schneid there. When, thanks to a “delay of game” penalty by Exelby, when he flipped the puck up out over the glass and another penalty to Jim Slater, the Wild scored on a 5-on-3 PP, to take the lead, 1-0. Hedberg was miffed on the goal.

By Bob Gassoff

March 7, 2008 8:46 PM | Link to this

The most entertaining thing about this team is seeing how bad they get out shot in the first period. Oh, I forgot, this is a young franchise.

By B. Thenet

March 7, 2008 8:50 PM | Link to this

STH meeting update:

I hear Bruce Levenson needs to spend some time with a PR coach before he goes in front of his loyal customers next time around.

Oh, he said the team will be better next year….start saving up the ticker tape Atlanta!!

By Alan

March 7, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this

Lanny - Then perhaps someone should say what he means, don’t you think? If I don’t understand what the person posting is getting at, I will ask the question.

By Archie

March 7, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this

Craig, could you please do some digging on the issue with the Chicago Wolves and their relationship with the Thrashers? It’s not the first time I’ve heard about that, and I’ve often thought it’s a major reason for the team’s lack of depth on the roster. There was an article in the AJC a while back comparing Bruce Boudreau’s clime to the Caps head coach with the Thrashers coaching search. I wonder how common it is with NHL and AHL clubs to have the the same kind of relationship the Thrashers have with the Wolves. No players climb the ranks through Chicago and make the big league team. All the draft picks we have are the ones who bypassed them entirely… Kovy, Enstrom, Heatley (though traded by now), Exelby, etc. The TSN article is only the tip of the iceberg, I’m sure. I know there’s a big story there, I just know it!

By Adam

March 7, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this

There’s a long, detailed recap of the Townhall meeting over on the Chicken.
DW was engaging and empathetic, while Levenson came across as a first-class jerk. His “we’re gonna raise prices every year, so suck it” attitude was the last straw for me.

By R. Stroz

March 7, 2008 11:44 PM | Link to this

Adam - Do you have the link to the Chicken?

By KC

March 7, 2008 11:47 PM | Link to this

Adam, what is the Chicken?

By Steven

March 8, 2008 12:56 AM | Link to this

The Chicken is a Thrashers message board. Here is the link to the Town Hall Meeting recap: http://forums.smirkinchicken.com/thread.php?threadid=66616&forumid=1

By JB

March 8, 2008 1:30 AM | Link to this

Hey Nascar Dave, is your caps lock key broken or did you just fall asleep on it and somehow miraculously come out with legible sentences?

Anyway, from the sound of the Town Hall meeting the problem isn’t with DW its with management, but I did read good things and some not so good things. DW has a list of solid #1 defensive talent that he is pursuing for this summer along with another solid scoring winger. Don Waddell is doing the best he can but we honestly don’t know how much management has been tying his hands recently; so lay off the man everyone.

By Sara

March 8, 2008 8:33 AM | Link to this

I don’t know if anyone else has picked up on this, but judging by what all was said by Waddell, I gather that signing Hossa is not part of the off-season plan.

However, as much as that bites and I wish we could have him back, I’d rather see them put that money into the blueline. The question for me is: Can they find anyone willing to come play here?

It’s going to be a busy off-season for the ASG and GM. Let’s hope they get it right this time.

By the way ~ someone should have pointed out to Levenson that it doesn’t really matter what he and the rest of the owners think about our ticket prices. They aren’t the ones paying for them.

By DaveM

March 8, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this

I’ll just try to remember to change my name in the future so as to not be confused with others.

I’m DaveM

There is also NASCAR Dave (the caps lock guy).

By David

March 8, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

Just some thoughts.

If we had known at the beginning of the year that we would be second to last in our conference at this point in the season, would we still have fired Hartley? Are we really any better without him than we were with him?

Hossa was a great player and all that, we all know this. However, my only thing with him was whether or not we were getting what we were paying for. I feel like that money can be spent better on two decent players. We need more depth, not one good player.

DW…I’ve always been a fan of Don, and still am. I think we should let him stick around through the draft and let him start the year as GM. If the season starts off poorly, though, he needs to go. That’s my deadline with him.

Kozlov…what happened to the guy?

By kracker

March 8, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this

ranallo Nice list…in the NOT HOT group: Tobias Enstrom, D, Atlanta (0-0-0, minus-7 in last 9 games)….he is probably wearing down.

By Brendan

March 8, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this

David, I was a “fan” of Don Waddell’s, too. Honestly, I can’t deny that. If I did, I’d be lying, because I posted as much on this blog, many years ago. In 1998, when I’d first heard that the Assistant GM of a Stanley Cup winning organization (Detroit) was coming to Atlanta. I was “thrilled.” And I was “onboard” with him from 1998-2002. Then I had an “epiphany.” The nuts and bolts of which were … This is not the guy to lead us to the Stanley Cup. And I haven’t seen anything to dissuade me from believing that, since then.

I am looking for “evidence” that would suggest that Don Waddell is the “Architect of Champions.” Thus far I’ve seen favorable draft position, and the players correspondingly selected, squandered as they are sold off or traded away. I’ve seen every Tier One FREE AGENT who can leave this organization pursue that very option. And today, I sit pondering Kovalchuk’s future, knowing full well that he represents Atlanta’s best chance at ever winning the Stanley Cup.

Then I read, “I’ve always been a fan of Don” and “Lay off the man everyone.” Okayyyyy. I get it. The ASG aren’t good owners. On this, there is no debate. But I’m looking for “positives” to support Waddell’s “good decision-making” as cause for optimism that he should stay. It’s a daunting challenge. Is it his tremendous drafting? Surely, the ASG has NOTHING to do with that. Perhaps the ASG has something to say about “lengths” of contracts and “dollar values” attached to them. Okay. Yes, of course. They finance Don’s decisions. Don is the person who, ABOVE ALL, should have his finger on the “pulse” of the team. The ASG ostensibly relies, EXCLUSIVELY, on Don’s judgement of such matters. One wonders if Hossa actually did tell Waddell, “Go GET ME a TIER ONE CENTER” in the offseason or I’m outta here. If he did, Waddell IGNORED him, and in so doing, forced Marian’s hand into the very direction he took—namely, to LEAVE the organization at season’s end or provoke an “asset salvaging mission” at the trade deadline. Under whose purview is it to have a handle on the “star” players? If not the GM, then at a minimum, it’s the GM in concert with the Coach.

I respect the fact that Don Waddell has his fans. He’s a nice man. He’s approachable. Sometimes, he even answers emails. Do these things, ALONE, justify him remaining the GM of this hockey team? And to argue, at this point, that no one could do better, seems too weak for even me to continue foisting on this blog. That was, perhaps, best illustrated to me when Sage of Bluesland offered that had HEEE been the GM of this team, the results wouldn’t be any better than what Don was achieved. (Light bulb goes on! As many of you seem to consider Sage to be a bumbling, blustering, obfuscating sheep-obsessed Buffoon!) And ladies and gentlemen, we are headed for the bottom third of the Eastern Conference for the seventh time in eight (7/8) years.

May I ask you, genuinely, from where does your “optimisim” come for this man? I’m not trying to provoke you. I’m not calling silly, juvenile names. I’m asking you to please articulate to me, and others like me, who cannot understand why Waddell hasn’t been fired, why you still believe Don Waddell is leading this organization towards the Stanley Cup? I promise that I won’t ATTACK you answer … I just want to “hear” it. It helps me to understand the “perspectives” of others, is all. I am asking you to do this GENUINELY.

By Tony C.

March 8, 2008 11:46 PM | Link to this

CC-

Also one other thing from my corner; in the poll that is currently on the page.. I’d like to see a choice “E” as in:

E: All of the above

Thanks.

Tough-luck loss tonight. Seriously.

GO BLUE !!!

OPERATION: Believe In Tankland IS GO!!!

By Sage of Bluesland

March 9, 2008 8:30 AM | Link to this

Brendan,

Thanks for the compliment…I think? (haha)

Good luck getting a satisfactory answer from the excuse-making set—because that is all they do: make excuses (and they’re pitiful ones at that!)…

Would this GM’s “performance” be acceptable in any ‘real’ hockey town? Of course not.

Then again, maybe I have yet another reason for why we are terrible…and I’m looking at the sheep whose heads were on a string and nod at every blustering word uttered by buffoonish Donny…Maybe THEREIN lies the REAL problem in the figurative joke otherwise known as “Blueland”?

Real fans demand accountability.

By Brendan

March 9, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this

This is very true, Sage. If the STH “invite” were replete with anger, hostility, and questions like, “Would Ken Holland or Lou Lamoriello have to work under these conditions?” Or, “Haven’t you SEEN ENOUGH of this GM to know you need to make a change?” Or, “Have you taken the pulse of your fanbase, lately?” Any of these questions would be GOOD ones to have asked. The Spirit Group, while rest assuredly shellshocked, would, finally, at long last, get the point. And the point is “We’re Pi$$ed off!”

Instead, apparently, Bruce Levensen acts like a politician whose Senior Advisor just screamed, with arms flailing, “Uhh, sir! Election in November! You can’t go calling your voter-base ‘morons’ or ‘idiots’ who don’t understand the dynamics of your office.” And the polician muses ALOUD, “What? Another election?? Again??? This ‘stupid country!’,” as he throws up his hands in disgust.

Well Bruce Levensen, I am really, really, really sorry … that you’re disappointed in the understandably angry response to your raising of ticket prices. Bruce, buddy, … I was just watching “Center Ice” last night, and two other teams outside the PLAYOFF PICTURE, the NY Islanders and Florida Panthers, just announced that THEIR SEASON TICKET PRICES will REMAIN THE SAME. And in the case of the Islanders, you can “lock that price in” for another two years!! Thaaaat’s right, Idiot Isles owner, Charles Wang, has figured out that the way you retain a fanbase is to treat them with respect, not scorn and condemnation for their failure to ‘sympathize’ with the challenges that occupy your good office, sir. And most of the difficulties you encounter are there of your own doing! You can’t even buy Belkin out properly. And that’s absurd, to be frank.

Welcome to reality, since you’re CLEARLY not participating in it. And when you’ve lost your shirt, and are forced to sell, you’ll have no one but yourselves to blame for it. It’s your decision-making, and inaction, especially at the GM position, that finds you where you are today. Namely, as popular as a cancre sore on Yearbook Picture Day. It’s a position … that well … YOU’VE EARNED. Good luck. Hope you grow a brain by the end of the season.

By stendec

March 9, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this

Good old Letemin. What a pile of Finnish crapola! Moose shows fire and grit to get two points. Letemin looks like prima donna with 2-0 lead then folds up like cheap toilet paper in overtime! What an oxygen waste. Want to see this loser allowing soft goals someplace else next season. Moose only Thrasher with inner fire fit to wear uniform. Perhaps Ilya Kolvachuk. Rest are completely expendable. Disposable better word! Send all the untalented quitters packing. Let good old Letemin lead the exodus! Bring in some players with heart, pride and toughness. GO FLAMES!

By dcw

March 9, 2008 12:20 PM | Link to this

Drop all europeans except for the Kovalchuck and the Swedes(havelid, moose, enstrom). We need North American heart and grit.

My 12 year old son watched part of the Blackhawks and Sharks and could not believe all the checking and hitting. This is because he is exposed to the peel off non-hitting Thrashers. Playoff caliber teams have forwards that forcheck and finish checks. Poor kid has never really seen quality hockey.

Forwards checking disrupts the other teams flow and makes the defenseman’s job easier. Thrasher forwards have no accountability and certainly don’t hit. Accountability also means family and friends not an ocean away to watch your every move and get on your case if your not playing hard. Europeans are often collecting a check and on our team that is very evident.

While our defense is not strong, they would be made better by better forwards with heart and grit, ala Armstrong.

By T-Bone

March 9, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this

Brendan, Good post as usual but I’m afraid good ole Bruce and Co., won’t lose their collective shirts. In the end, they’ll be able to sell the team for millions more than what they invested and will reap their rewards then. In the meantime, they’ll operate the team on proverbial shoestring while mouthing to the remaining faithful they are “committed to bringing a winner to Atlanta.” His attitude Friday only reinforced my decision to not renew season tickets. I’ll buy from scalpers before lining his pocket anymore. And did you notice on Friday, while the game was a sellout they still had some concessions closed? Bruce, some penny pinching is way too obvious even to the masses!

By Nathan

March 9, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this

Hello everyone,

Well unfortunately I was unable to make the town hall meeting or the Wild game because I had the MPRE Sat. morning which is essentially the Ethics portion of the Bar exam. Ha, Brendan I can already hear you now, “Ethics exam for lawyers, isn’t that an oxymoron?” Haha. Anyway my Dad and sis were there and they filled me in on some of the details so I figured I would share my thoughts and of course as always I’d love to hear all of your guys reactions.

First, I was told that there was an owner present in some kind of method to I guess support Waddell. However, my Dad told me that there was a weird vibe b/w the two of them and it gave you the feeling that they were definitely not on the same page, especially when it came to the issue of being close to 7 million under the salary cap. Don’t get me wrong I believe Brendan and I are in full agreement that we need to build through the draft and follow the Buffalo model of 2-3 seasons ago (and after losing all that talent to FA they are still only 4 pts out, amazing).

Point of fact is that I would like to take back my early comments of a year ago and state that ASG is probably the worst thing that has ever happened to this franchise. Should DW go? I don’t know, probably at this point, but I will say that after looking at the results over the past 3-4 years and having learned what I have about the organization, they are essentially the guys that have a beautiful car on the outside with a Ford Pinto engine on the inside. What do great football and basketball teams all have in common? Good ownership and good management. I am by no means a Pats fan, but they have one of the best owners in the game, great GM and a good coach (even though he is a horse’s arse.) Look at the Steelers, great ownership, great GM, good coach. Now look at hockey, Buffalo, great ownership, GM and coach. Look at SJ, same scenario. What do we have? 9 guys all trying to be Emeril in the kitchen.

What is the solution? I’m not sure. The question now becomes, do we want a new GM? I say that with a feeling in my heart that (1) DW has been hamstrung by the ownership, (2) even so we probably need new blood in here, and (3) that new blood should also be in the form of good ownership. Absent that I don’t know what the solution is aside from getting young and truly building this thing from the ground up. I’m sure that threw a lot of your guys hands in the air but lets not forget how bad Philly was just last year and even in their recent skid, what a tremendous turn-around they have had in the absence of solid goaltending and sans Simon Gagne. Turning it around in the new-NHL isn’t that hard any more because the parity has caused it to become more and more like the NFL. As a die-hard fan that has been there since day 1 and through all the 9-0 and 8-1 losses the first couple seasons (ha, you guys remember) I still believe in this can be a great organization, but only if ownership wants it to be. Sorry for the length of the post everyone. Hope you all had a great weekend, I’m back to hitting the books.

By MB

March 9, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this

Okay, so it would seem that the majority of posters feel it’s time to say goodbye to DW.

Now I have to ask, how much confidence do you have in the ASG’s ability to hire a presumably good GM and give that GM the resources to succeed?

Quite a little Gordian knot we have here, eh? Could Belkin, or Blank, or someone else be our Alexander?

By bob (other)

March 9, 2008 7:01 PM | Link to this

DW isn’t going anywhere. He is a solid GM. And although the franchise has been around for much longer, there have been 3 separate ownerships. This one is only in it’s 3rd year. Every business ownership creates it’s own strategy and plan. This ownership and GM has one and we will be fine. We are in a parity league and will have $17M in freed up contracts this summer, plus we just picked up great help in the trade with Pittsburg.That is a strong position compared to many other franchises.

Be patient people and support the team.

By TNT

March 9, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this

Brendan, regarding what you saw about Fla and NYI keeping season ticket prices the same next year, Bruce the Richard Cranium would just say you’re lying about it, and he knows who you are. What ever that means.

By Sage of Bluesland

March 9, 2008 9:34 PM | Link to this

“…That is a strong position compared to many other franchises….”

Look at the pitiful spin of this sheep! Are YOU Don Waddell??? Strong position??? Yep, being about 28th in a 30 team league is certainly dealing from “strength”…

“…Be patient people and support the team.”

We’ve BEEN patient and supported this team—and this has been our result…Eight years and one playoff appearance, and that was a complete debacle in and of itself…

It’s time for the Waddellites to wake up and stop their ridiculous spin.

It’s time for the real fans to demand accountability. Don must go for this franchise to move forward.

By T-Bone

March 9, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this

Maybe Bruce has one of those Bush Illegal Wiretap Sets on us STHers! That’s how he “knows who you are, and your lying!” What a freekin horses patoot! Know I know why DW was didn’t trade anyone else on deadline day. He was forced to play charades for Bruce & Co., that we were playoff worthy until ST renewal was over. And for Bill (other) do you really think they’re going to spend that money that they’re under the cap on? Come on, we’ll continue to buy 3rd line players and put them in 2nd line positions and buy 2nd line players and put them in 1st line spots hoping against hope that some of it will stick.

By bob (other)

March 9, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this

Sage, It would be more productive to take your misguided rants elsewhere.

By bob (other)

March 9, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this

http://www.forbes.com/lists/2007/31/biz07nhlNHL-Team-Valuations_Rank.html

The business of hockey…….just the financial facts.

By bob (other)

March 9, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this

http://www.forbes.com/2007/11/08/nhl-team-values-biz-07nhlcxmokb1108nhl_land.html

By Brendan

March 9, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this

I guess we’re all a bit confused by what the term “solid GM” means. If we had a good working definition of “solid,” it could open some debate. If “solid” means having two of 27 defensemen drafted, over nine years, making the starting lineup, with the fact that they were both 8th rounders taking on a heightened sense of priority, then we’d at least have some “model” from which to base. And then, we could start comparing Waddell to other GM’s who have drafted 27 defensemen … to see how many they landed, and if any were 8th rounders.

But really, raise your hand if you want to “bother” doing that? For those of you with your hands in the air, let me just ask you. If you saw a yellow thing … moving towards you, near a pond. And the “yellow thing” moved in a way that could best be described as “waddling.” And you just happened to remark its “webbed feet.” You also happened to spy a bill on its face. Then the “yellow thing” started “quacking.” Were you “unsure” you had just encountered a duck? Well, perhaps that’s possible, until your friend started throwing bread crumbs in its direction. And you asked him or her, “What are you doing?” To which your friend replies, “Why, I’m feeding the ducks. What ELSE does it look like I’m doing? Trying to reinact “Hansel and Gretel?”

It’s going to be HARD ENOUGH to effect ‘real change’ here with the Bozo ASG in charge of the SS Thrashers. If you want to exacerbate that problem, why … by all means, keep Waddell as prime “decision-maker.” He has such an EXCELLENT track record that he boasts as many NHL Playoff wins to his credit, with the Thrashers organ-I-zation, as Sage of Bluesland. Has that “sunk in” yet?

Sage, I’m not making fun of you. I’m trying to emphasize a point. Please don’t take that personally, as that’s not where its meant. And for the record, (shrugging) I think you, or well ANYONE, could be GM of a hockey club that finishes in the bottom third of a Conference seven times in eight years.

I do wonder, however, if it’d be possible NOT to inexperience “incremental progress” along the way. Stop for a minute. If your team is among the “worst” in the league, you get favorable draft position—for each and every draft round. If your team is the “worst” in the league, you are among those teams who get “1st crack” at players like Bryzgalov and Recchi in a waiver claim situation. And if you just followed the model that says … draft who the “experts” say, with the assistance of the NHL’s “Central Scouting” report. And you paid Tier One players at a Tier One level, and Tier Two players, at a Tier Two level. So on and so forth. And you didn’t get utterly “fleeced” in trades along the way … wouldn’t it be something close to impossible to miss the playoffs for any extended period of time? Think about it. Your “crappy team” would, after several years of sucking, be filled with young, fast, skilled talent. Talent “capped” by rookie contract status, by the way. And, you’d have certain “waiver claim” players to help out. And presummably, once you’re a “good team,” UFAs will be attracted to your market. And presummably, you’d have some “cap room” with which to work … since you hadn’t EXACTLY been paying the Drurys, Gomezes, and Brieres of the league, who wouldn’t give your franchise the “time of day” in free agency discussions.

How come this didn’t happen for us? We sucked for years. We had two 1st overall picks. We had two 2nd overall picks. We had two 8th overall picks. We had a 10th overall pick, and a 12th overall pick. The Hockey News ought to be proclaiming that Atlanta has some of the best “Under 25” talent in the NHL. Did I “miss” it??

By Brendan

March 9, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this

Uhh, make that “experience,” not “inexperience.”

By Brendan

March 9, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this

Nathan, good luck on the exams. By the way, I remark, often, how some lawyers do actually do some “pro bono” work. So, 99 lawyers chained to the bottom of the sea … isn’t always characterized as a GOOD start. Just don’t forget, Nathan, that poor people need legal representation, too. I’m sure they’d like to have Manny Aurora as counsel. But, uhh … they just don’t have Heatley money. Hey Nathan, check out where the Redhawks are this year?. Craig’s Spartans are right behind them. And Brian’s Purple Eagles, of Niagara, are ranked 20th. Well, good for them!! Michigan appears to be the team to beat for hockey’s version of “March Madness.” I can’t wait for the “Frozen Four.” It’s going to be my March hockey highlight, as the Thrashers won’t be challenging for anything but a lottery pick. Which, I hope they win! Didn’t Chicago win the lottery, from a 4th from the bottom position, last year? So, you never know, right? Either Doughty or Stampkos would be fine with me. And yes, I definitely agree that building through the draft, especially with “gritty” Canadian players, or American ones, is the best way to advance towards contending with a “window of opportunity.” If Atlanta could roll four lines of “depth” it’d be a welcome change, but it has to firm up its blueline, first and foremost. The GA must come down!, or this team will never seriously contend. Whether Kari Lehtonen or Pavelec is the man in net, the team must play a more solid system and have intelligent, puck-moving defensemen, with grit.

By I really do want to believe

March 10, 2008 2:29 AM | Link to this

While Lehtenon has his moments. It is hard to place blame on his team’s failures on him or Hedburg. He is a fully capable young goalie. The problem is the team in front of him. You could put the best goalie in the world on this team and he would look weak too.

Must remember that defense doesn’t just mean defensemen. Forwards need to help keep the play in the other zone. Any goalie who sees over 40 shots every single game, will give up more than any goalie that sees the number of shots the Thrash offense produce.

I like the way Armstrong, Christiansen, Boulton, Thorborn, and even Brian Little have worked to establish more of a forecheck and cycle lately. Notice anything about those guys? Not Euros. Can have a few Euros but you need to build around the heart guys that you see more out of North America and North American rough, tough and fast hockey players.

If you look back at the Cup winners over the years you notice something about how they are constructed and who they are constructed around.

The Ducks last year were built around the Niedermayer brothers, Sean O’Donnell,Dustin Penner, Corey Perry, Chris Pronger.

In 2006, The Hurricanes, Rod Brind’Amour, Eric Cole, Mike Commadore, Matt Cullen,Doug Weight, Glen Wesley, Mark Recchi, Eric Staal, Cory Stilman.

In 2004, The Lightning were built around Vinny, St. Louis, RIchards, Boyle, Dave Andreychuk.

In 2003, The Devils were built around Scott Stevens, , Martin Brodeur, Sergei Brylin, Ken Daneyko, Patrik Elias, Jeff Friesen, Brian Gionta, Scott Gomez, Jamie Langenbrunner, John Madden, Scott Niedermayer, Joe Nieuwendyk, Jay Pandolfo, Brian Rafalski.

In 2002, the Wings built around Steve Yzerman, Chris Chelios, Mathieu Dandenault, Kris Draper, Sergi Federov , Dominik Hasek, Brett Hull, Niklas Lidstrom, Kirk Maltby, Darren McCarty, Luc Robitaille, Brendan Shanahan.

2001, the Avs Joe Sakic, Rob Blake, Ray Bourque, Chris Drury, Adam Foote, Peter Forsberg, Milan Hejduk, Patrick Roy.

You can’t flat out say that Euros don’t contribute, there are some quality Europeons as key components on some of those teams but you can’t help but notice every single captain is Canadian and the core guys are mostly north american players. They also have a true #1 stud defenseman or 2.

Bottom line to all the Lehtonen bashers out there. Its not his fault, the poor kid needs help from his teammates and unfortunately, his team is just not built properly.

By GaVaHokie

March 10, 2008 8:48 AM | Link to this

Sage… in a real hockey town, Don Waddell would get whatever he desired. His biggest problem, and I’ve said it all along, is players don’t want to come to Atlanta.

Nascar Dave… take the caps lock off and try and act normal. Otherwise, people will start glancing over your comments… like Sage.

So, I’m guessing Waddell was looking at Brian Campbell at the deadline (an East player who went to the West)… if we’re going to get a #1 defenseman this summer, we’ll probably have to over spend and make the offer on Day 1 of free agency… much like Todd White and Bobby Holik.

If there’s one thing I like about Waddell, it’s that he knows who is willing to play in Atlanta and what it’s going to take. It’s not always WHO you want, but it’s enough to make us competitive in a city that otherwise no players have any interest in playing for.

I mean seriously, do you REALLY think Waddell wants Bobby Holik over a Peter Forsberg or a Todd White over a Michael Nylander or Robert Lang? He knows what he can get and what it’s going to cost people. If he was the GM of Boston, Ottawa or Toronto he’d have any of those players he wanted.

By Nikita

March 10, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this

On the team…

I’ll say it for the 90s time — Bobby Holik is pricey, but effective. But until we can replace him with someone who is at least as large, physical, and strategic, then his salary is immaterial. Because we MUST have that piece.

As for the team and its build…amen. Portions of the D suck, but they’re not being helped by forwards who don’t play defensively or toughly.

By NASCAR Dave

March 10, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this

Nascar Dave… take the caps lock off and try and act normal. Otherwise, people will start glancing over your comments… like Sage.

HOKIE WHY WOULD PEOPLE GLANCE OVER SAGE’S COMMENTS???

SAGE AND BRENDAN ARE THE ONLY ONES HERE THAT SEEM TO HAVE A CLUE!

WADDELL IS A LAME DUCK GM. HE WILL BE OUT AT THE END OF THE SEASON.

AND WHAT HAPPENED TO THE HOKIES YESTERDAY? LMAO!!! LOSER.

By GaVaHokie

March 10, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this

Nascar… I’m sorry, did you say something?

By MB

March 10, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this

Nikita, there’s no doubt that Bobby’s been playing better since the AS break, but that’s part of the problem…for $4.2M a year you get a 37-year-old who holds back until the last third of the season (by his own admission), takes penalties at the most inopportune times, and, apparently, is divisive in the locker room.

And I kinda like the guy, even though he’s maddening…like a few games ago when he takes a stupid penalty, so you’re cursing him, then we kill it, and as he comes out of the box, he absolutely levels the opposition d-man at the point, springing Perrin (?) for a break and a goal.

Unfortunately, it’s just as likely that he’ll take that bad penalty and come out of the box early with his head bowed as the other team celebrates a PP goal.

Anyway, we currently have 6 centers on our roster, and most of us are hoping we’ll add another one this off-season. $4.2M goes a long way towards making that happen. Plus, it’s time to make this Kovy’s team and award him the C, both because he’s earned it and because we need to strengthen his bond to the team any way we can as we look ahead to his free agency.

Hopefully we can find a much younger, much cheaper version of Holik out there this summer, because you’re right that we do need that toughness.

Speaking of, others have mentioned that we need to make sure we bring in North American grit, possibly alluding to the Thrashers having too many Europeans. By my count, we’re about 72% North American with our skaters, and the grittiest of our players is a Czech, Holik, while arguably the softest, Todd White, is from Ontario.

By GaVaHokie

March 10, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this

Oh, and Nascar… I’m having a hard time finding Georgia on here, can you tell me where it is?

By GaVaHokie

March 10, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this

See Sage… a guy named NASCAR DAVE supports your point of view… I rest my case.

By NASCAR Dave

March 10, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this

GAVASHEEP - I DON’T CARE ABOUT BASKETBALL.

YOUR FOOTBALL TEAM LOSES TO THOSE NERDS ON NORTH AVENUE EVERY YEAR! NUFF SAID!

ARE YOU REALLY DWAD’S DAUGHTER???

LOSER.

By Brendan

March 10, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this

Gentlemen, some decorum. You know better than that. I always say, “We’re all Thrasher fans.” I would like to think, sitting next to one another, we’d all slap high-fives after a Thrashers goal.

We may disagree on whether Don Waddell remaining at the helm is what is BEST for the franchise. But, it’s been my experience that I can’t find a room full of ten (10) people who would agree that water is wet. “How so?” “In what way?” “Well, how do YOU define “moisture?” And so forth. Ad nauseum.

Waddell has his fans. He’s a nice man. He’s an approachable GM who, on occasion, even answers emails. Waddell is trying the best he can. But there it is. The best he CAN is not good enough. Not to many Thrashers fans’ satisfaction, anyway. I don’t think he’s the worst GM in hockey. Now, or ever. But I am convinced, and have been since 2002, that Don Waddell is not the man who will be GM whenever it is that the Thrashers hoist the Cup. And because of that belief, I welcome a “fresh, new perspective” from one of the Assistant GM’s out there, just waiting for his chance at a full-time gig. If Waddell gets canned, I’ll thank him for his efforts in trying his level-best to build a winner. There is no doubt in my mind that he had his chance. I’m just sorry it didn’t work out better for him. A nice guy like that deserves to have some real success to call his own. Bygones.

By Midfield

March 10, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this

Yeah, there’s plenty of grit in the Kostitsyn brothers, for example. Just ask Enstrom, if he remembers anything from the home game against Montreal…

By Bob

March 10, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this

If there’s one thing I like about Waddell, it’s that he knows who is willing to play in Atlanta and what it’s going to take. It’s not always WHO you want, but it’s enough to make us competitive in a city that otherwise no players have any interest in playing for

Do you really believe this? That explains alot about you, if you do.

You’re incredibly wrong, but again, that explains alot about where you’re coming from.

There is nothing wrong with Atlanta that a new GM cannot fix. Players don’t respect Waddell, that’s why they don’t want to stay (in Hossa’s case) or sign here. There is nothing wrong with Atlanta on it’s own. New respected GM comes in here and watch him turn it around.

By GaVaHokie

March 10, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this

AND WHAT HAPPENED TO THE HOKIES YESTERDAY? LMAO!!! LOSER.

Umm, you’re the one that brought it up nimrod. You’re so predictable… I was waiting for that reply.

And try not to slit your wrist when the Bulldogs finish 3rd in the SEC this year behind Bama and Florida… National Championship?! LOL.

Rather be a sheep than sheep s**… that will be your nickname from now on. If I choose to stick around and talk to you.

By Nikita

March 10, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this

Everybody please note — I’m ok with losing Holik when it’s time, but meanwhile I’m glad we have him. His inconsistent play is a cause for irritation, but when he’s on he’s magic — and he’s still on more than most of our other players. But he’s pricey, and I imagine if we can replace him with someone who has the same general attributes, but is less moody and younger, then that’d be great.

As to our centers…we don’t have quite the backlog there that we have in forwards, but we also have a ton of 2nd- or 3rd-line types. I’d like to see us shake Holik and anyone else we can ditch with the exception of Eric Perrin, and a) invest in a top line center and b) fill out the remainder of the C slots with dependable, moderate talents.

Geography…the Americas win hands down. Thorburn, Boulton, Slater, McCarthy, Recchi, Klee, and Exelby (N. American) vs. Havelid (Swedish), Kovalchuk (Russian), Holik (Czech)…and, um, that’s it.

Biggest wusses…Todd White (N. American) vs. Slava Kozlov (Russian).

Which reminds me, one of the reasons the criticism of Bobby Holik keeps bothering me is that Bobby Holik is demonstrably less contractually burdensome to the Thrashers as a whole than are most of the other vets — Bobby Holik, for example, didn’t sucker the Thrash into a multi-year no-trade clause (Kozlov) and then completely fail to show up for months at a time. Or quit entirely (Zhitnik) with two entire seasons remaining. Which is the #1 reason why I don’t want to see Mark Recchi on a multi-year contract when he goes back out to bid. I like him, but I don’t want to be married to him, especially since he’s already taken a powder once in his career and could do it again and he’s got some sloppy tendencies.

By NASCAR Dave

March 10, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this

HOKIE See, Bob has a clue too! You just don’t get it, do you?

You are only fooling yourself. Really Hokie, that’s very noble of you. But I do feel for you. One day you will understand.

It must be getting lonely being one of the last sheep in the flock that still will vouch for DWAD. Again, that is very noble. Your other fellow sheep have either gotten a clue already, or they are hiding in the closet, afraid to come and just ADMIT THEY WERE WRONG!

But I must warn you, when Waddell is released at the end of the season, WHICH WILL HAPPEN, it’s just gonna make it that much harder for you, Hokie. I really don’t want you to slit your wrists when that happens either. I would really miss your baseless claims on how Waddell is a Good GM and this is all the ASG’s fault.

I mean, did you read the THM reports? Owners never refused Waddell anything. That’s the problem. Waddell did nothing. How you can come out here and say Waddell has done a good job is beyond me.

But then again, seeing the thug school you come from, it all makes perfect sense.

NUFF SAID.

GO DAWGS!

By Rone

March 10, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

Hey NASCAR Dave,

You have to be the biggest tool who posts on this blog. Do us all a favor, and post on some UGA blog. You’ll find alot more people like yourself, tools who can’t let go of college because of the rad times they had eating “ookie cookies” to get into that frat.

By GaVaHokie

March 10, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

Yes, I read it, and apparently better than you… I get the sense that people who once doubted Waddell are realizing it’s ownership.

And yes it will all make sense one day when Waddell produces a contender for some other city with good ownership and a town that appreciates hockey that players want to play for.

Thanks for getting rid of the Caps lock and saying something intelligble… sorta.

What’s your alma mater again? I’ve yet to hear you say you actually WENT to Georgia.

By NASCAR Dave

March 10, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this

I get the sense that people who once doubted Waddell are realizing it’s ownership.

Nope. Again, you are only fooling yourself. I don’t know why you continue to use that sheepish excuse, when it has been proven that THIS IS NOT OWNERSHIP’S FAULT!!!

it will all make sense one day when Waddell produces a contender for some other city with good ownership

Fine with me. As long as he’s outta here, i’m fine. I don’t have the patience for another of his 10 year plans.

a town that appreciates hockey that players want to play for.

Brother, you just don’t get it! ATL will have PLENTY of hockey fans once you produce a WINNER! DWAD DOES NOT KNOW HOW TO “BUILD” A WINNER! Why can you not see this??? And really, if you were an NHL player, would you want to come play for DWAD??? I THINK NOT!

I really think Hokie, that someday you just might “get it.” I really hope you do, for your own good. DWAD is the problem, and UNTIL HE IS GONE, there will be NO progress with these LOSERS.

By Rone

March 10, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this

Wow. I pegged you all wrong Nascar. You didn’t even go to UGA?

By NASCAR Dave