Thrashers

By Bob

March 10, 2008 5:04 PM | Link to this

Definitely put Zhitnik on waivers. No one will bite due to his $3.5m salary, but then try re-entry and see if someone will step up to paying 1/2 of it. That’ll be the last bad contract the new GM will have to deal with, from the Waddell era. I know lots have questions on White, but that’s because he’s in the wrong role, I’m ok with White under contract if he goes to our third line center for the next couple years.

Oh, this Schultz column could be an all time classic, I can’t wait to hear him turn the screws on Waddell. They have a hate-hate relationship going back years.

By NASCAR Dave

March 10, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this

Do you bring Zhitnik back?

A THOUSAND TIMES NO!!!

LET HIM SIT IN THE PRESSBOX THE REST OF THE YEAR FOR ALL I CARE!

YOU DON’T EVEN NOTICE HIM MISSING OUT THERE. IT’S GRRREAT!

By Tony C.

March 10, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this

CC-

Next time the two of yall goto practice together, let me know-I’ll get the first round at breakaway’s. Sounds like you had fun.

As far as bringing the player formerly known as Alexi Zhitnik back, …you’re joking right? I’d ship him out to whoever would take him (maybe Ak Bars?-If we sent them Zhitnik, some of those waxy yellow laces and a very large check, maybe we could finally get Nikulin over here? I dream big kid.)

If I’m another GM, and I have an opening on my 3rd pair and a need for some pop on my 2nd PP unit I’d take him off waivers-but only if I thought I didn’t have equivalent or slightly lesser talent on my team. Also, I’d have to believe my team had a legit shot at making the conference finals (That Dallas wouldn’t touch him even after loosing Zubov speaks volumes to me).

If we end up a lottery team, then “No” do not trade the pick. Otherwise, if that’s the cost for getting a REAL top-pairing D-man in here (and I’m not talking a Havelid/Sutton “pressed into top-pair service” type either) then I say go for it. DW hasn’t really shown a lot of acumen in drafting/developing Defenders.

Re: LaVallee; I’ve been clamoring for him since this time last year.

Re: Vabalik; I have heard horrible noises about his positioning and skating but a quick look at his penalty minutes don’t show me a lot of hooking, obstruction, tripping “I got beat” type of penalties- why not bring him up? At worst, he can knock the poop out of people-we don’t have a lot of guys like that.

By Guy Chouinard

March 10, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this

Schultz is the only AJC columnist with even half a clue about hockey … I think he’s generally fair and on target with his criticisms. The Zhitnik trade did not look like a disaster a year ago, but certainly does now, particularly given Coburn’s progress in Philly. I say waive him before next season.

By David

March 10, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this

I’d put Zhitnik on waivers…let somebody else deal with him. I’d rather have a younger player who really WANTS to play.

I’d trade one of the first round picks for a defenseman. I think it’s a good opportunity to pick up a solid top 4 guy.

By Nikita

March 10, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this

I’ve been saying for months that Zhitnik needs to get sent down. $3.5 mill is a lot of money, and he’s really played poorly this year. It would suck to be saddled with both his salary and his play next year.

Not sure how likely someone is to pick him up at his astronomical salary, particularly since he’s nowhere close to peak production. But what could it possibly hurt?

By Rone

March 10, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this

In hindsight, the Zhitnik trade was bad. Although he did help out with the playoff push last year. We gotta try to dump him.

In other news, Bob, Sage, Nascar Dave and Chickenhawk are now Schulz’ number one fans. This upcoming article may replace the Viagra they are currently using.

By MB

March 10, 2008 5:41 PM | Link to this

Including Zhit-head, we already have 5 returning D-men for next season, plus you have to figure we re-sign Pop. That leaves McCarthy and Kiwi as the odd men out, at this point.

I believe just about everyone here would love to see us bring in a legit top-2 d-man, if not two, and many would like to see Valabik get a shot.

Put Zhit on waivers to clear some space, and hopefully someone will at least take 1/2 his salary, and add that $1.7M into the kitty for FA pick-ups.

Tony C., I’ve read the same comments about Valabik, but then again, I remember reading them about Coburn. Maybe we could get Chara to mentor him in the off-season like Hatcher’s done for Coburn.

As for the picks, if we can move the Pittsburgh one for a young player already in the league who’s showing promise, definitely. Don’t mess with our first pick, though.

By NASCAR Dave

March 10, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this

JEFF SCHULTZ IS GOD!

GO GET DWAD SCHULTZ!

WE WANT ACCOUNTABILITY!!!

By NASCAR Dave

March 10, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this

WOW, LOOK AT RONE STICK UP FOR HIS BUDDY VAGAHOKIE!

THAT’S SO SWEET!

By ranallo10

March 10, 2008 5:52 PM | Link to this

Custance — I’d put Zhitnik on waivers (suck it up finally, he’s not serving this team any purpose at this point) and I’d bring up Valabik as his roster spot replacement.

Lavallee doesn’t fill an immediate need on this roster (note I said roster, not team), so without removing a current LW (Larsen, Boulton, Slater) from the bottom two lines, I don’t see the purpose of Lavallee’s role/development being served by calling him up. In my opinion it’s probably better for Lavallee to finish out the season in the AHL (get an extended playoff run), and come back to Atlanta in the offseason. I am looking forward to him though, as he’s the gritty player with offensive upside that we could use in Atlanta.

I’d love to see Desbiens though, just to see him fight Phaneuf Thursday. I’d pay extra to see that.

By Jim

March 10, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this

Sounds like Don wants to duck the obvious- he’s done a terrible job in the past year and knows that his neck is on the chopping block. The only two defensemen worth keeping from the current top 6 are Enstrom and Havelid although I’d break them up. While they may communicate well together, neither is physical enough. Put Enstrom with someone like Valabik and let him take even more of an offensive role. Put Havelid with other puck carrying defenseman- preferably a good FA. Ahitnik, Macarthy and Exelby are all too slow, timid, non-physical. Exelby is the real disappointment. The league has all wised up to his open ice hits and he hasn’t taken any sort of a physical role. He’s slow and a poor puck handler who can be expected to cough up the puck when pressured behind the net. Popovic, Oystrick, Denny and Grant Lewis would make a better quartet that X, Mac, Ahitnik and Klee (ugh- another one step slower vet). Package the 4 up with DW and send them all on their way.

By Alan

March 10, 2008 5:55 PM | Link to this

That trade is looking worse and worse with every game Zhitnik watches from the press box.

It looks even worse than that every time he suits up and goes on the ice.

Zhitnik should be waived or bought out.

No comments on the draft picks.. I think the others have summed up my opinion on that.

By Smoothie

March 10, 2008 6:04 PM | Link to this

Craiggers — how about an injury update on Charmin? Is he expected to play tomorrow and if so, did you ask him if he’d get moved to wing since Little is starting to show his potential on the first line?

I’m going to the game tomorrow and I hope I see # 10 out there on the ice between #s 17 and 8. I especially liked what I saw in the first period on the PP against the Kitty Kats.

By Sara

March 10, 2008 6:05 PM | Link to this

Reading between the lines of the STH event and his rear getting benched, Zhitnik is not going to be back next year. After Toby and Havelid and X and Klee, Pop will likely be the 7th guy, assuming they can in fact bring in two new guys for the top line. At that point, Zhitnik is likely going to get bought out of his contract. It’s the only sure way to get at least some of his salary off the books and move him off the roster.

As for the draft picks, I think that decision has to wait until we know where both ourselves and Pittsburgh finish the season. It’ll also depend on who’s available. If a trade could be made for a bonafide number one D that has a few years left on a contract, I’d move one pick. But not both and preferably not OUR pick since we can likely get something better in the long-term than what would come back in a trade.

By ranallo10

March 10, 2008 6:11 PM | Link to this

MB — Would you be opposed to Pittsburgh’s first round pick and Exelby for Vermette (he’s an RFA)? If I were in Waddell’s shoes, I’d be trying to pry someone like Vermette away from Ottawa while they’re still constrained with salary. Or, offer Exelby and that first rounder for Meszaros, maybe they’d bite at that instead?

Usually I’m not one for scenarios, but those two players would be on my radar due to their abilities, age, and upcoming RFA status. Rumor had it that during the trade deadline they wanted Exelby involved in any Hossa deal, so I’m curious what names were in the rumblings that would’ve come Atlanta’s way.

If Atlanta makes a miraculous run and finishes out of the draft lottery, I’d be fine with combining the two first round picks in a trade up to draft in the top 5.

By Nikita

March 10, 2008 6:16 PM | Link to this

Why Klee Kicks Zhit’s a*…

1. Klee is old and slow. But he’s also usually in position.

2. Klee is paid, what, 1/4th of what we pay Zhit? Klee is dirt cheap, and earning every penny.

3. Zhitnik does not have a Facebook group called “Don’t You Wish Your Boyfriend was Hot like Zhitnik?” Klee…well, look it up.

4. Klee knows how to clear a puck.

5. Klee also knows how to pass.

6. Klee almost never scores. But when he does, it’s usually the game-winning goal.

7. Klee plays good, consistent physical hockey.

8. Back to Facebook — Zhitnik does have a facebook group featuring his tiny-a* Daewoo Leganza. Puh-leeze.

9. Klee pulls very few penalties, but he draws plenty. Whereas Zhitnik is ref bait.

10. Klee is one of only two Americans on the roster, and looks just like a bigger, chinnier version of the other one (Slater).

11. Klee looks like Buzz Lightyear. A bruised, beaten Buzz Lightyear. If chins could kill, he’d be a felon.

By ranallo10

March 10, 2008 6:25 PM | Link to this

Nikita — I must say that’s the first time I’ve heard Facebook used as in support of a player. It might also be the first time the shape of a mandible was used to defend a player’s advantages over his/her counterpart…good stuff!

By Barry

March 10, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this

Klee reminds me a little bit of the Greatest American Dad cartoon character. I kinda do feel a little bad for Zhitnik. I don’t want to hate a person unless it is really really justified. Zhitnik apparently didn’t come into camp in good shape and has not been the defenseman he was last year. I’m just really disappointed in Zhitnik. Maybe he can come back next year in better shape and get his game back on track. This whole year has been a mess from the start. I’m just looking forward to a new season next year with, hopefully, a brand new head coach not named McCrimmon and start over with a clean slate. I just think this team needs a complete new direction style of play that’s going to work to the players strengths and help this team really succeed.

By Craig Custance

March 10, 2008 6:34 PM | Link to this

Smoothie: White didn’t practice today. If they can hold him out another game, they probably will.

By Smoothie

March 10, 2008 6:42 PM | Link to this

Thanks Craig. Would you mind asking Waddell if he would consider moving White to wing so Little can gain more experience playing with Kovy? Seems like now is the time to see if he is our 1st or 2nd line center for next year. Of course, Crusher could get moved to winger in favor of White / Little and Perrin (our 3rd line center for next year??).

By Lanny McDonald

March 10, 2008 6:42 PM | Link to this

Trade up both 1st rounders to try and grab Stamkos or Tavares(if they let him in).

This is where I feel Waddell failed on Trade Deadline Day. He could have picked up some 2nd or 3rd round picks for our UFA’s, but he chose not to.

If we had more later picks, we could easily trade up our 2 first rounders, knowing that we had plenty of picks left in a “deep draft”.

By MB

March 10, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this

ranallo, I’d definitely be tempted by a deal for Vermette, though I’d be concerned that I’d end up with three 2nd line guys in him, Little, and Christensen, with no real top line C. Of course, three 2nd line quality guys is better than what we’ve ever had, and either Little or Vermette (or even Esposito…10 pts. in last 3 games) could end up being a legitimate, if not spectacular, 1st liner.

Haven’t watched Meszaros closely enough to comment much, though his age, size, and stats certainly make him sound interesting.

Both were making around a million this year, +/-, so they wouldn’t break the bank, leaving some $$$ to pursue other needs. And I, too, wish we had made deals for later picks…goodness knows DW needs as many shots at it as possible…the blind squirrel theory of drafting.

Lanny, that’s another good potential option for our picks, depending upon where we end up. By all accounts, Stamkos is the no-brainer kind of pick that makes it easy on DW.

By PJ

March 10, 2008 7:37 PM | Link to this

Nikita You crack me up! There really is a facebook by that name, I had to check - Awesome.

By Jim

March 10, 2008 7:46 PM | Link to this

Valabik’s a +22 at Chicago and leads the team by a pretty large margin. How bad a skater can he be? I’ve come to believe that DW is a pretty good barometer for determining if someone is ready or not. If he says that they’re not, they certainly are. All we heard about Coburn was that he wasn’t ready. Now he’s Philly’s top D Man and a real NHL stud. DW gave up on Pothier, Staios, Hnidy and others. They’re all playing better than our over the hill gang.

By R. Stroz

March 10, 2008 7:46 PM | Link to this

This is too easy:

Do you bring Zhitnik back?

PUCK NO

By kracker

March 10, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this

I’ve read only a short way thru the responses but the horrible prospect occured to me that Zhitnik is but another manifestation of how a veteran player reacts after being traded to the Thrash - and then seeing how screwed up we are - he mostly shuts down….I’m sorry but that could be the case. If hockey is 9/10ths effort & hard work, then being traded to a screwed up team is quite a shock.

Don’t misunderstand: We have to can/trade the guy because he is getting big money to suit up and bring it, but I can see how skating for a messed up team can mess with a guy,s motivation.

By ranallo10

March 10, 2008 8:34 PM | Link to this

Jim — Correct me if I’m wrong, please, but I don’t believe many of the second tier defenders that have come through Atlanta were actually traded away by Waddell. The only exceptions I can think of would be: Brian Pothier (he didn’t blossom until four years later, 2005-2006 in Ottawa, and wasn’t re-signed by them) and Brett Clark (same blossoming effect applies). Just remembered Kurtis Foster was in the trade for Niclas Havelid, so maybe I’m totally wrong here.

Anybody right now would rather have Staios than McCarthy, or Kaberle than Zhitnik, but for all we know (a popular line of mine, but you should understand what I mean) those players did NOT want to play in Atlanta. Waddell could have attempted to keep them here, but instead got the shaft.

I don’t remember any quotes by Pothier regretting being traded to a perennial powerhouse. I don’t remember Kaberle having disdain for Waddell when he wasn’t re-signed. I don’t remember Staois leaving for Edmonton with regret at missing his chance in Atlanta. Does Brett Clark even remember he played in Atlanta?? Kurtis Foster only laced up for 5 games.

Looking back at the trades and seeing the types of players they are now, yeah they probably should’ve been re-signed. Is the Thrashers organization missing that top 2 defenseman because those players are gone? I’d say no (besides Coburn…based on how Zhitnik is NOW playing, that trade will sting for a while).

By Hockeyfan

March 10, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this

Craig at the season ticket holder event/debacle last week, Don said Zhitnik was a big part of our defense last year but this year he is just a piece…

Zhit is gone. Put him on waivers. If nobody claims him, buy out his contract and use the money saved later. Don also said Boris would definitely be up this season to see how he does.

Coburn’s lack of success here I blame on Hartley.

By Tony C.

March 10, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this

Ranallo-

You really think The Dion would drop ‘em against Desbiens???

But hell yah, I’d pay extra to see it.

I don’t like Phaneuf-after some interviews I’ve read, and some post game comments from him I saw-don’t like him-great player would’ve loved to see DW get him down here. Never gonna rock his sweater though.

We should call somebody up for thursday though. Somebody that can scrap a good bit. It’d be nice.

By ranallo10

March 10, 2008 9:15 PM | Link to this

Hockeyfan — I can’t argue with your statement about Coburn, I felt he looked good when paired with Popovic, but he barely got a shot under Hartley’s “system”.

Tony C. — Nah, Phaneuf would deny the fight but hit him between the numbers when he was standing still. Phaneuf’s a punk. He’s like Sutton (cheap shots) with more skill and a harder shot.

Valabik would scrap…probably far less after his last training camp game got cut short by a game misconduct.

By Tony C.

March 10, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this

I dunno ranallo, I’ve always thought not retaining the other Kaberle was a bad move.

He’s not the bomb, but he’s better than some of the guys I’ve seen on the ice for us since he left town.

But really, I think that many of those names mentioned could have produced a valuable commodity that we can’t really quantify(and my lil OCD what is the matrix type question): Continuity-a sense of what it is to play “Thrashers Hockey”. It takes a long damn time to grow your team-see OTT, NSH etc. . What those trades have ended up as a Lump Sum Total effect is that this team has little to no identity, and the going-for-broke out of the lockout combined with prospects dealt or not re-signing has left it bleeding in the farm and hamstrung by the cap.

By ranallo10

March 10, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this

I did a breakdown on Rawhide’s blog of those lost defenders compared to today’s, if you’re interested.

Of course there’s the Who Knows element towards those players, but personally I didn’t mind seeing Kaberle leave. Now that the rules have changed to favor his style of play, it looks like a bad decision, but at the time I wasn’t too upset. Same goes for Modry (who statistically led the team, but wasn’t nearly the best DEFENDER on the blue line).

By Midfield

March 10, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this

I hate to disturb the echo chamber here, but, although Zhitnik has been totally out of shape, not ready to compete and careless from the get go, he is certainly more capable than Klee. He was actually GOOD here and there - a handful of games. Klee is just SLOW. Always slow. you can count on him to be slow. I guess, it’s a plus, if you want somebody predictable - I mean, coachable. Of course, he’s cheaper and that - I give you - is a big edge, when you have a bloke like Levenson pulling the strings. So, imagine, we put Zhitnik on wavers and some schmuck picks him up, and next year shaped up and p** off Zhitnik shows up at Philips and kills us. What would you say? Waddell f*cked it up again. And here you go citing the ever long list: Kaberle, Staios, bla-bla-bla…. From where I stand, Waddel never should have fired Hartley because a few prima-donnas mailed it in - out. He should have told Hartley to draw blood if he needed to and that he - Waddell - stood behind him all the way. Instead, he made Hartley the sacrificial goat and became the “players’ coach.” So, when Zhitnik is gone, it will be another scape-goat, I guarantee it. This team - just like any other team in this town - LACKS ACCOUNTABILITY. There must be something in the water here.

PS Special apology to Brendan for the excessively lengthy rant.

By Russ

March 10, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this

Ranallo - I was looking at RFA and UFA d-men last week, and Meszaros was at the top of the list of RFA’s I would be willing to put out an offer sheet for. If Ottawa doesn’t re-sign him before that time, I would think a 6 yr./$18 mil. contract would be tough for him to turn down considering he is making a little less than $1 mil this season. Ottawa may match it, but as you said they don’t have a whole lot of wiggle room for next season, so it might be worth a shot. Another possibility would be Daley from Dallas, although I think he would only command about a $2.5 mil per year offer.

Also, I would trade the Thrashers pick to try to get another established young defenseman. I’m thinking if the Thrashers swap picks with someone that would keep them in the top ten they could throw in one of their crappy d-men (preferabally Zhitnik to get rid of the salary, but probably Ex because he seems to still have some value) and pick up another solid young D like Bieksa from Vancouver. Vancouver’s pick may end up well outside of the top ten, I was just using them as an example. This is supposed to be a deep draft, if you can stay around 10, I believe that is where the Thrashers got Little in what was also a deep draft, so I think you can still get a player that can contribute for a long time, plus adding someone to help the defense immediately.

No matter what, the Thrashers need to overhaul the defense this offseason as much as possible. Of course I said this a few years ago, and they went into the following season with almost an identical blueline. If they could add two players as I suggested above, you would have a top four of the two newly acquired players plus Havelid and Enstrom. I think that would be a significant upgrade and at least be somewhere near the top half of the league as far as your roster d-men go. Then you would have whoever is leftover out of Klee/Zhitnik/Ex/Popovic/rookies from Chicago to battle for the final two spots.

By Bob

March 10, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this

I’ve always thought not retaining the other Kaberle was a bad move

Oh, definitely. And the most damning part for Waddell in that list of dmen I posted who Waddell deemed not good enough to be here? Waddell just let most of those guys walk for nothing in return. Waddell said Kaberle wanted too much and let him walk. Waddell said Staios wanted too much and wasn’t part of our plans, and let him walk. Staios was shocked, he was our captain and in the interviews after he wasn’t re-signed, he said he thought he was going to be here a long time. I remember the Oil’s GM thanking his lucky stars in an interview that Waddell didn’t want Staios and publically questioned Waddell’s judgement for not keeping him, something like “no idea why they didn’t want him, but it’s our gain!”

Not to mention the litany of UFA dmen Waddell signed to “improve” over letting these guys walk. That would be something to look at, who’d they bring in as UFA to replace Staios? Adam Burt? Smehlik?

That is the one unforgiveable thing to me, the complete inability to build a defense after all these years which has led to year after year of letting in the most goals in the league, and most shots on goal. Yet he’s going to sign and bring in two new dmen this summer to fix things. Okie Dokie. It’s the same thing every year.

I just hope they clean out the scouting department and let the new GM bring in his own guys, who the heck is doing our pro scouting to recommend some of these guys that get brought in here?

By Russ

March 10, 2008 10:15 PM | Link to this

Two other points I left out on my previous post. 1) Any d-men that are brought in this offseason through trade of free agency need to be YOUNG, established NHL’ers, not the mid-30 players the Thrashers are famous for acquiring. 2) I don’t think the Thrashers should get involved in the Brian Campbell sweepstakes. I think Campbell is a very good defensemen, and I certainly don’t want the Thrashers to be cheap, but Campbell to me is very good but not great. He is probably the best d-man going on the market this summer, so I personally think he will end up being over-valued. He’ll probably end up getting around $6 mil per season, which he is not worth IMO. I think you can get a young, established player with room to grow for about half the price as I stated in my previous post.

By ranallo10

March 10, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this

Russ — I agree that Campbell will likely be overpriced this offseason, but that seems to be the only way this team can attract a freeagent (overpaying). I’d say Redden is the best available in the upcoming UFA crop, but I would be fine with either.

With between $14M (my number) and $17M (Levenson’s number) to spend, a $6M defender and a $3M defender would greatly improve this team. I don’t think we’ll see anything important happen on the UFA front regarding a center, so the remaining $5-8M could be spent on complimentary parts or scoring depth (Ryder would be nice, Huselius expensive but nice).

Enstrom - Havelid UFA (Redden quality) - UFA (Roszival quality) Exelby/Popovic - Klee

That would be a massive improvement. But, if things go the way they have, we’ll be seeing:

Enstrom - Havelid UFA (Foote/Blake quality) - Klee/Zhitnik Exelby - Popovic

By moo

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

If Waddell dumps a top 6 pick this year to move down for another “Bourret” type late first rounder, a Majeski and more later-round picks, then I’M ASKING TO BE TRADED!

NICE GUYS FINISH LAST AND WE SUCK

By Tony C.

March 10, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this

But hey, let’s look on the bright side-DW is making noise like he understands that he’s got to switch it up this year.

Ok.

Let’s go sunny day scenario (yeah, that sunny):

DW gets decent return for Zhit & picks… I dunno-somebody who will hustle. We get Stampkos and he’s as good or better than advertised.

We sign Sean Avery. trust me

We hire Larianov to coach He likes to golf right? Or maybe go with Anderson-He’s on the record as wanting the gig.

I think it’d be a fun squad to watch.

Slava, Stamkos,Recchi/Perrin

LaVallee,White,Perrin/Recchi

Greeks

Notice Larsen, Holik are not listed. Holik-man I was psyched when we signed him, but it’s been overal dissappointment.

By MB

March 10, 2008 10:49 PM | Link to this

Bob brings up a very good point, and one that’s frequently ignored because it’s just such darned fun to rag on the D-Wadd…and that’s the (presumably) poor performance of our scouts. I say presumably because unless D-Wadd has totally ignored all of their suggestions, then they’re not exactly bringing in the hidden gems of the hockey world.

It’s more like they were fans in the late 90s and are inexorably drawn to the names they remember as being good at the turn of the century.

Additional culpability, in the case of players dealt away who are now successful, with the coaching staff(s). I highly doubt that D-Wadd acted alone in who was dealt or let go. I have a hard time imagining Curt Fraser or Bob Hartley pleading the Wadd to keep a guy, and Donny Boy turning a steely eye and cold shoulder on their requests, simply out of spite.

Simply put, we have done a poor job of identifying and developing talent at the NHL level, and that has cost us dearly on a number of occasions.

That is why I like the idea of this team either “earning” a top 3 draft pick or using their two picks to obtain one (Stamkos, Doughty, Pietrangelo in that order), and then paying, even overpaying a bit, for strong young defensive help.

That is also why I do not want McCrimmon as coach and remain skeptical of Anderson.

By Nikita

March 10, 2008 11:37 PM | Link to this

Can someone explain to me why Ex won’t get tossed?

By Brendan

March 11, 2008 12:17 AM | Link to this

Midfield, loved the passion in your post. Make ‘em long as you want. If it were possible to trade Zhitnik, I think we would have seen that at the deadline. Even at a “pro-rated” salary for the remainder of year, nobody would toss us anything worth having. Even if some team thought, “Okay, I’ll give you a 7th round pick for Zhitnik,” they’ve had to waive him and eat half his salary for next season. Assumming, of course, nobody claimed him outright on intial waivers.

Buying Zhitnik out only saves a little over $1 million. While every little bit helps, it’s still too much to be paying a player to play elsewhere. There is something “else” to consider, thus far not yet mentioned. (Everyone leans in to listen.)

“Well, isn’t 2009 Zhitty’s ‘contract year?’” “Yeah, so?,” you might be thinking. So, he might ‘try’ to report to camp in shape and to do something which warrants getting another team to sign him for one last, final contract. While it’s true that Zhitnik never chose to play here, he might just be motivated enough, so badly, to get OUT of town that he elevates his game to the point where some other team would want to have him at the trade deadline next year.

By Brendan

March 11, 2008 12:38 AM | Link to this

Tony C., I’d love to have Sean Avery. Boy, would he change the “dynamic” of our lockerroom. Russ and Ranallo, interesting points about Meszaros and Vermette. Either would be great! Ottawa has to find a way to re-sign them. RFA offersheets will cost us draft picks, however. Someone who wouldn’t cost us picks is Kristian Huselius. I know, to put him on Kovy’s line he’d have to play RW, not LW. But still, it’s worth it to have him. That is, if Calgary doesn’t re-sign him. It’s going to be close to “maxed cap” for the Flames, if they do. I love Huselius. He scores big goals, and timely goals. Calgary has to find a way to keep him. Let’s all scout him Thursday! Flames won tonight, 7-3, over the Blues.

Oh yeah, we were talking about D-men. Sorry. I hold out some hope for finding a Mark Streit or a Michal Roszival in the offseason. There’s even some shot for UFA Steve Montador from Florida. Wait, did the Habs re-sign Streit? They might have. If they did, “Mea Culpa.”

By GSU-Lee

March 11, 2008 12:58 AM | Link to this

I’d bring Zhitnik back before I brought Waddell back.

By Alan

March 11, 2008 1:44 AM | Link to this

If Ottawa doesn’t re-sign him before that time, I would think a 6 yr./$18 mil. contract would be tough for him to turn down

It would be even tougher for the ASG to send that sort of contract anyone’s way though, since the ASG agreed to not sign anyone to a contract more than four years in length due to the ensuing lawsuit.

By ranallo10

March 11, 2008 2:02 AM | Link to this

Alan — Belkin has to sign off on any contracts longer than 4 years, if I remember correctly. SO it’s POSSIBLE, but not probable. I’m sure Kovalchuk’s next contract will be one of the only exceptions to that 4 year limit (yes, I expect the dispute to last until 2010).

Brendan — Streit is still set to be unrestricted at the end of the season, and would qualify (in my mind) as the Tier II defender needed for this team. If Streit were signed the team would have two PP able defenders, and still have enough money for that Tier I UFA many of us want signed. Streit AND Roszival would be a steal in my opinion, but I hope we shoot for something bigger (like a Redden or a Campbell, though not likely to happen).

Also, my point about Meszaros and Vermette is that each could possibly be had BEFORE re-negotiation, likely for that late first round pick and a sweetener (Popovic wouldn’t fit since he too is a RFA, but Exelby would due to his contract status). The acquiring team would still have RFA rights over those players, and be free to negotiate an extension (or file for arbitration) at their leisure. It’s a much more “civil” exchange than the dreaded RFA offer sheet.

By LAC

March 11, 2008 4:04 AM | Link to this

Boy O Boy… waddell again makes a STUPID comment !!!!!

Telling us The OWNERS are SMART ?????

That’s like saying if anyone owns an airplane thye can fly it…

What an IDIOT, come on waddell, now you are even acting like one of them.

Zit/Klee/Larsen/Slater/White/Holik Boulton should ALL be placed on waivers, None has contributed to the team in a positive manner at all this season, GET RID of the dead weight once and for all.

For this waddell cannot see his own MESS ????? I wonder if waddell can go to the bathroom by himself, he need help in every area.

Now he’s calling Mr.Potty Mouth levenson smart ?????????????????

What a disaster for NHL Hockey here in Atlanta, so damn sad too!!!!!!

By Hockeyfan

March 11, 2008 7:22 AM | Link to this

Actually under the latest court decision (if I remember correctly), Belkin doesnt have to sign off anymore. It is back to a majority of the ownership.

Craig the reason I am not a Schultz fan is 1) the lack of attendance by him at Thrashers games and practices and 2) when was the last time he wrote something positive? Oh that’s right he doesnt do that…

By stendec

March 11, 2008 8:40 AM | Link to this

Getting primed for another game. I am a diehard Thrasher supporter but…If Moose is in goal I will storm the ice rooting against Calgary (my beloved local Flames once removed). If daydreaming Letemin is between pipes I will hope for multi-goal effort from Iggy plus a shutout from Kipper. That is how much this untalented Finn has irritated me this dismal campaign. Score Thrashers. At least once! A strong run to end the season would be nice. I do not condone Falconing (tanking) for higher draft picks. It is unAmerican (and unCanadian). Enjoy the contest fellow Thrasher watchers. GO BLUE!

By Russian

March 11, 2008 8:44 AM | Link to this

We should waiver half of team already. Half of team palyed terrible and just pick up a check every month. It is not problem about Zhit or Klee, whole team is going to down this season. Owners should did changes immidiatly after Rangers swipted Atlanta on PO. They lost time and money. Now they have to make right call and need to prepear today, because tomorrow will be late. We need new Organization: Coaches (all of them), New GM with smart moves. And after that GM and Coaches will build a team. Rigth now we do not have a TEAM and Organization.

By GSU-Lee

March 11, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this

when was the last time he wrote something positive? Oh that’s right he doesnt do that…

That is kind of his job, he is a critical writer. All he has to do is write his opinion on something and support it with stats and quotes. And by the way, what positive things could you write about any Atlanta sports team right now?

By Nikita

March 11, 2008 9:53 AM | Link to this

“Well, isn’t 2009 Zhitty’s ‘contract year?’”

Yep, I agree…he might play well next year. But I think waiving Zhit now might be the right thing to do for symbolic reasons, as well as economic reasons. As it is, Atlanta’s developing a reputation for two things: serving as a rest home for mediocre, aged players and tolerating poor production. I think we are getting away from #1, but #2 needs work. And Zhitnik’s poor play is so egregious that he’d make a great example.

Also, folks, I’m tired of hearing about Klee as someone we need to toss. He’s technically our third-best defenseman, and that’s despite being purely defensive, playing in an inappropriate position with a rotating cast of worse D-men, old, slow, and dirt cheap. We’re getting every penny we paid for Klee and then some — ‘cause we didn’t pay much. We don’t gain much from tossing him, and unless we’re going to sign an entirely new D squad we’re going to need him for at least another year. I suspect we’ll need to replace both Klee and Havelid soon (because they’re old and relatively easily injured — I doubt either has more than a few seasons left)…but not now.

As to tonight…I’m psyched. The Thrashers play up or down to the opposition, and the opposition is relatively good. So it should be a great game.

By Alan

March 11, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this

As it is, Atlanta’s developing a reputation for two things: serving as a rest home for mediocre, aged players and tolerating poor production.

Instead of All-Star patches, maybe they should wear AARP patches on their sweaters instead.

By GaVaHokie

March 11, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this

I think it’s better for Waddell to call in a favor from another GM (the benefits of having an established GM with good connections)… trade Zhitnik and the late 1st round pick (from the Penguins) for a young defenseman.

I would target the Stars, Sharks and Panthers (all three do not have a 1st round pick this year).

However, my dream for the draft is trading both first round picks with LA for the #1 pick and get Stamkos… not too far-fetched since Stamkos is a Center and they already have Cammalleri, O’Sullivan and Kopitar. I could see LA moving down to #3 or #4 and getting Doughty or Pietrangelo for Defense. Then the Kings can use that late 1st round pick in a trade for a goalie.

By NASCAR Dave

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

By GSU-Lee
March 11, 2008 12:58 AM | Link to this
I’d bring Zhitnik back before I brought Waddell back.

LMAO!!! BEST POST OF THE DAY BROTHER!

HELL YEAH!

By moo

March 11, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this

The saddest part is that it’s true. Zhitnik has more worth than Waddell right now. At least Zhitnik knows the game of hockey.

By GSU-Lee

March 11, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this

NASCARdave, you go to the race last weekend? and yes, it was a statement of truth. I would almost bring stefan back before I brought DW back….I said almost

By NASCAR Dave

March 11, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this

LEE - YES, I DID. IT WAS FUNNY TO LOOK AT 200,000 FANS THERE IN ONE DAY AND REALIZE THAT THAT IS MORE PEOPLE THAN HAVE ATTENDED THRASHERS GAMES IN THE PAST 2 SEASONS COMBINED!

IT’S LIKE THEY SAY LEE, IF YOU MAKE A WINNER, THE FANS WILL COME. SO FAR, WE HAVE ALL SEEN THAT DWAD DOES NOT KNOW HOW TO BUILD A “WINNER”, AND THAT IS WHY THE NUMBER OF FANS ARE GETTING SMALLER AND SMALLER EACH SEASON.

AND THAT IS ALSO WHY THE FANS WILL STOP GOING ANYMORE. WADDELL IS HOLDING THIS FRANCHISE DOWN DUE TO HIS COMPLETE INCOMPETENCE!

By FRENZY

March 11, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this

DON WILL NOT BE FIRED ACCORDING TO OWNERS!!!! See new article on AJC by Craig…

By LAC

March 11, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

Here is a Great artical on TSN by Dan Pollard and says a LOT about what a CRAP franchise this really is.

Just read where Potty Mouth levenson is keeping don waddell, well you keep him Potty Mouth and I WILL keep my money and NOT attend until MASSIVE changes are made… Quick Flash, don waddell trades down in draft sends two first-round picks to Pittsburgh for their 3-4-5 picks, A TYPICAL waddell move !

Say what you will about Marian Hossa forcing the Thrashers hand when he refused to re-sign in Atlanta. You can’t accuse him of not being realistic.

Hossa didn’t see Atlanta as a team that offered to be a serious threat in the playoffs even if they could reach the extra season in the near future. Problems ran deeper than just the NHL roster. The entire development structure had cracks.

It’s not that Bryan Little and Brett Sterling aren’t talented prospects in Atlanta’s system. It’s just that if they are the best of the young crop to come up its more of a ripple than a wave of optimism at this point.

The Thrashers are to blame. Like many NHL teams Atlanta allows its AHL affiliate team to sign its own players. What’s unique is the number of players the Thrashers allow to be signed. Those players belong to the Wolves, not the Thrashers.

The Chicago Wolves hockey team is an independently owned organization. It doesn’t have to worry about playing Atlanta systems. It’s not Thrasher development first. They play Wolves hockey. They don’t have to be on the same page.

Just win baby. Make some money. There’s nothing on the back of the jersey that says “prospect”. The Steve Martins of the world are being paid by the Wolves who want their monies worth.

Head coach John Anderson isn’t an employee of the Thrashers. That too is unique. His agenda is different. He’s got to win for his bosses who aren’t a parent NHL club. It’s not that he looks to derail Atlanta’s development plans. It’s just that the best guy gets the ice time and the Wolves won’t eat their own. That’s the structure.

Washington showed this year what can be done in a successful structure when they reached into the minors to slide Bruce Boudreau into Glen Hanlon’s spot behind the Caps bench. Boudreau’s work behind the bench and the development of prospects he coached in Hershey have Washington aiming for a playoff spot. It’s something the Thrashers (if they had any mind to do it) could never have done. Even if they wanted Anderson to replace Bob Hartley they had to deal with the fact that Anderson is a Wolves employee. Atlanta would have had to compensate the Wolves and then add him to their payroll to replace Bob Hartley.

It’s a situation that has to be dealt with if Atlanta

By GaVaHokie

March 11, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this

Frenzy… how fitting that your name matches what’s about to happen. :)

Gentleman, start your engines… FREAK OUT!!

By Thrash1

March 11, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this

My thoughts on Zhitty - He’s just another retired player still lacing up the skates for the Thrashers. He is only one of many mailing it in on a daily basis.

With no real coach to work this team, what else can we expect but poor play and no heart.

I feel so bad for Kovy, Moose, and Toby.

By Boulton's Bruisers

March 11, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the tip Craig. Just called my ST rep and told her my family would not be re-newing. She asked why, and I said because you have chosen to retain Waddell, and that shows complete lack of accoutability, from the Owners on down. I then told her I would be puchasing Falcons season tickets instead. They may suck, but not as bad as Le Trash.

By NASCAR Dave

March 11, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

HOKIE - NO NEED TO FREAK OUT, WE ARE JUST NOT GONNA GO ANYMORE. HURT EM IN THE POCKETS, YA KNOW?

BY THE WAY HOKIE, AREN’T YOU LATE FOR A DOGFIGHT OR SOMETHING?

By atldave

March 11, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this

Craig, it didn’t take long for Levenson to respond to Schultz’s editorial. Maybe this is the dreaded owner “vote of confidence” but I doubt it. What is your take?

By jksteacher

March 11, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this

AJC quotes “Atlanta Spirit co-owner Bruce Levenson said Tuesday that the Thrashers have no plans to replace current general manager and interim head coach.”

I believe there is a typo here. Shouldn’t it read, “Atlanta Spirit co-owner Bruce Levenson said Tuesday that the Thrashers have no plans to make the playoffs next year, either”?

By jksteacher

March 11, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this

AJC quotes “Atlanta Spirit co-owner Bruce Levenson said Tuesday that the Thrashers have no plans to replace current general manager and interim head coach.”

I believe there is a typo here. Shouldn’t it read, “Atlanta Spirit co-owner Bruce Levenson said Tuesday that the Thrashers have no plans to make the playoffs next year, either”?

By Nikita

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

Back to Hossa…

I think the whole Hossa thing was ridiculous. You have a marquee player who doesn’t want to play for you. Not least of which because the marquee player looks around and sees how slack his teammates are. He knows such an undisciplined group isn’t going anywhere anytime soon, and he knows his peak production years are immediately before him. So he sandbags all season till he gets traded. Great.

The problem here is that management should have traded him earlier, and sat or traded everyone who wasn’t bothering to put forth an effort. The message internally needs to be “we want a cup, and if you aren’t willing to play cup-level hockey, then you won’t play here.”

The trade was a good move, especially since it involved throwing in Pascal “God’s gift to scoring chances” Dupuis. But I would like to have seen nearly every member of the team sitting from time to time, and not just the guys we pay peanuts to back up our stars.

Starting with the power play team that doesn’t score, the forwards who can’t finish a pass, captain bobby when he’s clock-watching, Recchi when he drops 10 passes in a row, Ex when he’s Ex, Kozlov when he isn’t feeling it, and whoever takes the most SOG when the overall number is over 30. Anyone who appears to be drunk, exhausted, or just plain out of shape. This is major league, and we won’t take anything less. And ideally you want to eventually have healthy scratches with whom nothing is wrong and who you are not punishing — the way to get there is by having an entire team that’s well-disiplined, well-prepared, and capable, so you can select the best rather than just who you have to have to fill out your positions.

By Rone

March 11, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this

Like I said NASCAR, good riddens. One less tool screaming “SHOOT” all the time. Notice my proper use of capital letters when posting.

Nuff said.

By NASCAR Dave

March 11, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

RONE WHO ARE YOU? WHY DO YOU CARE ABOUT ME? I WAS TALKING TO THE SHEEP HOKIE AND YOU BUTTED YOUR SHEEP A$$ IN. SO SHUT UP AND GO AWAY.

OR JUST DON’T INVITE YOURSELF INTO CONVERSATIONS YOU ARE NOT A PART OF.

By Rone

March 11, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this

You talk about sheep way to much. Something you want to get off your chest?