Thrashers

By Hockeyfan

March 14, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this

I dont care about southwest teams…. SouthEAST is a different story and yes there is a bias there

By True Thrashers Fan

March 14, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this

Craig, do you know who is in goal tonight?

By moo

March 14, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this

I have to agree that since we need to get bigger next season, I’d offer Holik a one-year deal at 2 mil. I always wondered why they didn’t try to make him into Kovy’s “Tkachuk” this season. Move White to the 3rd line wing and buy out Larsen for sure. Thorburn looked fantastic last night and if Holik finds better money elsewhere, Thorburn — Little — Kovy will be a nice line.

By GaVaHokie

March 14, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this

Craig… I was just pointing that out on Rawhide’s blog. Waddell went overboard with the smallish speedster, puck “danglers” this year. I don’t know if it was by accident or just too many available… White, Perrin, Dupuis, Kozlov, Little, Slater, Sterling… that’s too much.

Last night’s goal from Holik is a perfect example of how effective a big, lumbering Center gliding up the middle can be. It’s an easy target, to pass to someone like that opposed to figuring out what the hell Slater, Sterling, Dupuis and White are trying to do on any given play.

By Alan

March 14, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this

I would bring Holik back next season, for the right price. A 1-year, $2m-$2.5m contract would be exactly that. However, Holik would most certainly not wear the C on his sweater next season. He’s not the leader Hartley thought he was.

By Smoothie

March 14, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this

As well as Mr. Robert Holik played last night (and at other times during the year), I’m afraid I cannot endorse the idea of re-signing the big Czech unless he is willing to take a bigger paycut than what you’re suggesting Craig AND we somehow manage to trade Todd White.

If we somehow manage to do both, then Bobby can always spend some time playing 4th line minutes while the younger Slater and Perrin share minutes on the checking line. That way, Mr. Holik will be more than ready to “step up” his game for the playoff stretch run (riiiiight).

By Denny Lambert

March 14, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this

I was just glad to see every line play with heart and energy. Nice to see, I’m confused as to why we don’t see that effort every night?? I believe Calgary is more talented and they played hard, most Keanin teams do. Cujo was average at best. That said, if the Thrashers play a physical hard fought game every night they will be much more competitive and in every game, talent or not. It’s the first time I’ve been proud to be in the stands since the Buffalo game in January. Sorry DW, you still have to go, the team should be playing like that every game or at least 75 out of 82 games. Thorburn gave some energy and some chippyness. I’m not sure what got them going, Recchi chirping with Phenouf possibly?? Whatever it was, it’s needed every night.

By GaVaHokie

March 14, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this

On Holik… it’s so hard to say. If we can move White this summer (I’m surprised to hear myself say this) yes, I would resign him for $2 million.

Question is, would Holik want to stay? Maybe that’s your next article Craig… Holik seems frustrated with the lack of comradery. Plus, he came here specifically because of Bob Hartley. Making note of Hartley’s strict conditioning.

By ranallo10

March 14, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this

Custance — I think re-signing Holik creates more problems, both financially and roster wise, than it solves. His size and toughness will be missed, but his handcuffing due to his salary will not be missed. Even at $2.5M, his salary would impede the contracts for the more glaring needs like defense.

Without Holik this team will have 5 NHL caliber centers under contract (White, Perrin, Little, Christensen, Slater). Thorburn, Larsen, Kozlov and Recchi are also potential centers in dire situations. I think it would be counterproductive for the team to add (or retain) another lower line defensive-minded center to the mix.

I’d rather see that $2.5M spent towards a defender like Roszival or even Streit.

By MB

March 14, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this

I’m with you, CC, I didn’t see that one coming. I will give some props to Surly T, though, as one who did predict that line would click.

IF that line stays together and continues to produce at high levels the rest of this season, then I would have to consider bringing back Holik (though at $2M tops, preferably less).

Otherwise, thanks but no thanks. There have been a number of indications throughout this season that he’s been a polarizing force in the locker room. If that’s the case while he’s wearing the C, imagine what will happen if he’s stripped of the C (for Kovy) and forced to take a sizable pay cut.

By Bill Wirtz

March 14, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

Back at the beginning of Feb I e-mailed Waddell and talked to him about how Thorburn plays a lot like Al Secord who was a linemate with another great player named Denis Savard. The combination of scoring ability and the speed of Savard mixed with the size and physical play of Secord worked amazing. Too bad Waddell waited until March 13th to go with my idea.

By Nikita

March 14, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this

I like Bobby Holik as a player. He is the total package, and he’s insanely durable and fast for his age. As a captain, though, no. He’s too moody, and his style of self-criticism is probably not so good when it turns outward. I would pick Kovy or Recchi for captain, keeping whoever doesn’t get picked as an A, plus Havelid, Holik, and Perrin.

About size…6’0” and 200 pounds is average. Smaller than average = Perrin, Enstrom, Kozlov, Recchi, Little, Zhitnik. Average = Slater (skinny), Boulton (heavy), Kovy (heavy), Lehtonen, Christensen, Armstrong (tall, but skinny), Havelid, all of our remaining defense.

Large= Holik, Thorburn, Moose.

By Russian

March 14, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this

Holik played good now, but I am affraid to pay him $2 mln. He is veteran and has couple Rings on his belt. Kozlov is same story. Veterans did not want to play on our team. They got a contract and their skills disappears rigth after sign a Paper. I am agree that we need to get bigger and faster, but Thrashers has very many players still under contact. Expozito is 6’1”, but we got Perrin, White, Kozlov and etc. stay here with contract.

By rockdr99

March 14, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

Don’t want Holik back under any circumstance — If Holik could have centered Kovy on a consistent basis we would have already done it — Last night was a fluke — Holik takes way too many nights off —-

By Hockeyfan

March 14, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

Craig sorry for being a smart@$$ but I am just trying to live up to the role that Bruce Levenson thinks of current Season Ticket Holders…

I will have to admit that my first reaction of reading yesterday’s Kovy, Thor and Holik line was WTF? but they produced last night (even though some of that was because Calgary was giving Kovy way too much room). Dont think it is a long term solution.

I wouldnt mind Holik here at $2million or less and without the C. Do you think he would want to stay without the C? I believe that he will be with the Devils or Wild next year though.

By GaVaHokie

March 14, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this

If I’m spending in the $2-$3 million range, my wish list is Jason Williams (UFA), Brian Rolston (UFA) or Steve Bernier (RFA).

By Tony318

March 14, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this

Craig first thanks for all your work. Your blog has become my first stop for Thrashers info.

Regarding Holik, In my head I agree with ranallo10’s post although it doesn’t address Bobbys prowess in the face off circle. Will that be missed with the remaining crop of centers? who will become our go to guy?

In my heart I’d like to see Holik back at 1/3 his salary but only until Espo or Holzapfel are ready. I like the big lug except when he’s skating toward the penalty box with 3 or 4 minutes to go in the game!

By Bob

March 14, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

No, I don’t care the price, Holik has to go. I love his play as a checking center. Just love it. However…I think he is the biggest problem in the locker room. He was a divisive force in the Ranjerks’ room and they threw him under the bus when he left there to sign here. I think he needs to go.

This club needs to come together with around it’s young core. For years Waddell has brought in a Buchburger, Ferraro, McEachern, Mellanby, and now Holik as a savvy vet to lead the boys, but it’s time to give the C to Kovy and an A to Armstrong and let those guys take this club over. Bring Recchi-ball back to wear the other A and provide the vet presence on the 2nd line, but it’s time to move past this idea of having a savvy vet as a C, but give up a roster spot in the process. Holik’s our most effective player who was a captain, but he’s too divisive, he’s not a good leader and I’m afraid a lot of the guy’s have lost respect for him and that’s why there’s a split room.

Don’t know if you saw it last night, but Armstrong was jawing with 1/2 the Flames and was under everybody’s skin. I like that kid. Let Kovy and Armstrong run this club next year.

White can be the checking center, you don’t have to be physical to be effective in that role, just need to be able to skate and backcheck and have own zone awareness, White can do that. New real #1 center for the top line and Christiansen for the 2nd line, Slater can keep slogging up minutes on the 4th. Perrin can play a winger on the checking line.

By MB

March 14, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this

From the “way too much time on my hands” department, what a difference a year (+/-) makes:

Looking over some of the blogs from last year (see above), it’s interesting to note that the Zhitnik trade was roundly considered the best right here on CC’s blog, with many citing how great it was that he would be here 2 more years. Of course, at that time he had replaced Mandy and was playing top-line minutes for Havelid (who had improved his play once paired with the Zhit).

Kozlov and Belanger were considered the two most important FAs to re-sign, and as we went into the summer the re-signing of Kozzy was considered a no-brainer.

Though I can’t claim to have made an exhaustive search, I found nobody who advocated trading Hossa this past summer.

Oh, and quite a few folks were very excited about the improvement in X’s game and considered him a very strong player in our defensive future.

Tough game to predict, isn’t it?

By kat

March 14, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this

@ Nikita:

Large= Holik, Thorburn, Moose.

…what?

By MashaPlayer 7

March 14, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this

Is there anyone in the hockey world who doubts that Kovalchuk should be the captain of this team for the next 10-15 years??? He will be our Steve Yzerman..I only hope we can play like the Red Wings did (terrible start in Stevie Y’s career with some nice Stanley Cup runs at the end).

By ranallo10

March 14, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

Tony318 — Christensen is a very good faceoff winner, I think he was at 58% efficiency (compared to Holik’s 60%) when he came from Pittsburgh.

If you want to know his actual faceoff %, I can look that stat up for you.

By ranallo10

March 14, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this

kat — She’s not talking about in stature…

Nikita’s got a big crush on Hedberg.

By Bob

March 14, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this

Though I can’t claim to have made an exhaustive search, I found nobody who advocated trading Hossa this past summer

At the end of last summer, when it was obvious he wasn’t going to re-sign here I started calling for Waddell to trade him then as that would maximize our return (the return he got at the deadline was pretty decent, however). Moving in the summer probably would’ve made for a more competitive team this year as the distraction wouldn’t have been there and the roster players would have been here all year contributing.

However, I also remember liking the Coburn for Zhitnik trade at the time, as well as all the deadline deals Waddell made last year.

I thought Kozlov was a must re-sign, oops. I wonder what Kozlov’s deal is? Was he that distracted by Hoss’ situation? He and Hoss really clicked last year.

Or does he have his final contract before retirement and not really give a s**?

By Craig Custance

March 14, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this

True: I didn’t fly in until after the optional morning skate, so I don’t know.

Hockeyfan: I’m glad you’re on top of things. Thanks.

Nikita: I’m not sure I could consider Moose large. Kari maybe, but not Moose.

Tony318: I appreciate the comments and your loyalty.

Bob: I’d have no issue with Armstrong getting an A next season.

Masha: The answer to your question: Is there anybody in the hockey world who doubts Kovy should be captain…? is yes. There are people who doubt it.

By kracker

March 14, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this

Holik: Not at $2.5M, it’s some other team’s turn to overpay the ageing players. Maybe $1.5, and that is doubtful. Bobby was supposed to be the guy that lead by example every game. Earning the nickname ‘Captain Hook’ doesn’t do much for you in securing a new contract.

By Tony318

March 14, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this

Thanks ranallo10 no need for pencil sharp stats that’s good enough. I still like Holik, but not if we can replace his productivity and on-ice presence with younger players.

slight side note: I really like the way Little and EC play, but does their seemingly inability to approach point per game production worry anyone?

By Russ

March 14, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this

MB - I’ll be the first to admit I thought the Zhitnik trade was the best deadline trade DW made last season. And I think I was right…for about one month. Zhitnik played great at the end of the regular season, then he tanked along with the rest of the team during the playoffs. I never liked the Tkachuk trade and still don’t. Do the Thrashers make the playoffs without him last season?…probably not, but they were never a serious cup contender and with what they gave up for Tkachuk anything short of the cup was a bad deal IMO.

Don’t bring back Holik next season, Kovy has to be Captain next year and Holik doesn’t impress me as somebody who would be OK with being stripped of the C. He is still somewhat effective in his role, but who is to say he doesn’t pull a Kozlov if re-signed…he isn’t exactly getting any younger.

By lilibeter

March 14, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

My $0.02 worth on Holik? No, please don’t bring him back next year. he is big and he is presumably strong. He does not play that way though. Although he had some good hits last night, I have been confused all season as to why he won’t seem to follow through with a hit. he gets the opportunities, but he seems to pull his hits at the last moment the way an actor would pull a punch on camera. We need someone in his place who is big enough to play a physical game; not someone who is built to play a physical game but shies away from actually getting physical.

By Bob

March 14, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this

Hmmm, there’s some food for thought in this blog. I think Craig’s saying don’t count on Kovy with the C next year, Kovy is kind of shy, isn’t he, not the vocal guy you need in the room. Do they go with the same mode as every year then and bring back Recchi and slap the C on him? Let Kovy and Armstrong wear A’s?

By Rob

March 14, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this

Uh, Until Kovy learns how to consistantly backcheck and plays with the reckless abandon on both ends of the ice game in and game out, like say, Ovechkin, he shouldnt wear the C. Don’t get me wrong, I love Kovy, I do, but he has to become the complete player we need him to be. Let Armstrong wear it. You have to let Holik go. Put the 2 million somewhere else, dman. We could do with at least 4 new Dmen next year. Hats off to McCarthy, guy is talentless but he does play with heart and is one of the few on the team that stands up for his teammates.

By ranallo10

March 14, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this

MB — At the time, the Zhitnik trade was in the best interests of the team, and my thoughts were that the multiple years left under contract was a better incentive than a rental defender. Zhitnik’s production in 07 helped, but this season hurt. At the time I hated giving up on Coburn, but was to the point that I felt it didn’t matter since Hartley would never help develop the kid at this level (he seemed to give up on him way too soon). At the time I also would have been fine keeping Coburn, but felt Tkachuk was necessary even though we overpaid (Metropolit didn’t bother me, the quantity of quality draft picks did).

I was a proponent for re-signing Kozlov, and am still fine with the decision. I just hope he can wake up one day and at least resemble the Kozlov of the past few years.

Bob and a few others did support dumping Hossa before October, as they felt the return would have been greater. There’s no way to prove they were wrong, but that was their opinion at the time. To his credit, Bob was the most outspoken about that idea and often voiced it on these blogs.

But you’re right, it’s evidence of how we as fans can assume we know what’s best for the franchise, but once the games are played we show that the people being paid to run the franchise might no better (or worse) than us the fans.

How wrong we can be over the course of a season.

By Sigh

March 14, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this

I would definitely like to have Holik back next year. I think Nikita’s right about his playing and his manner. I don’t see him as moody as much as so straightforward it hurts. Some egos can’t take it. I do think every time he’s called for the boys to step up he’s been in there stepping up himself. The penalties are frustrating but I think that’s a function of #1 age #2 he’s known in the league as a strong player, a bumper, but not a fighter plus he’s so big refs can’t help but see what he’s doing. Watching him last night was like watching a pinball machine. He left some Flames going to the locker for some ice packs for sure.

Think of Andy Sutton. Andy was everyone’s whipping boy here for a lot of reasons, but his size alone kept a lot of pucks out of our net, not to mention the ones he purposely blocked—162 last year, 195 the year before. Despite the other parts of his game, his shot blocking was very, very valuable. It’s not that teams have learned how to shoot more against us this year, but that we don’t have the big guy to lower the SOG total.

I think losing Holik would be something like that. You don’t realize the importance of the faceoff wins until you don’t have them any more. And his intimidation factor is still really effective, he moves the puck, and he is a tank. Plus he uses a wooden stick, which I think is just cool. I’m not interested in keeping players who don’t contribute, but the veterans are SO important to developing character and general hockey smarts for our younger guys. However, I agree that he may not be the best guy for the C. I think it should be Rex.

By WW5

March 14, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

just because a new line produced last night, doesn’t mean it will be replicated. and good old letemin exceeded even his usual ineptness last night. is he at 4gpg yet?

By Buzilla Baby Blues

March 14, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

I’ll play Center for the league minimum

By Nikita

March 14, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this

My bad…Moose is average. Not in looks, though. (I’m working up crushes on others players too, though.)

Oh, forgot to say I like Holik, but at the right price. He’s currently more expensive than I think is really optimal. But he really can do 99% of the things we need done consistently and with reasonable skill. He plays like an enforcer when necessary, but also has decent hands and speed. And I like seeing him thoroughly humiliate opponents by sitting on them or stuffing their faces into the ice. Especially this year when too often other teams feel free to physically intimidate our guys.

By MB

March 14, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this

Apologies for being all over the place today, but was reading the comments of Flames fans beneath the game article on the TSN site.

Without team and personnel names, it could easily be the fan comments we see here…bad GM decision, coach must go, no defense, veterans not living up to their salaries.

Now before you go calling me an apologist or a sheep or some other barnyard creature, I’m in no way comparing our club (or situation) to that of the Flames. Just enjoying the universal occupation of fans that is kvetching.

TSN article

By Nikita

March 14, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this

Forgot to add…Bob, I think a good part of that game was won with the Thrashers’ big mouths. Did you see Recchi mixing it up? Holik was smack talking the guy he tied up face down, smack talking the other guy in the faceoff, and so on. Armstrong was really turning it on…even Klee, who apparently is good lockerroom presence but kinda mild-mannered, was jawing. And then of course there was Boulton. Nice fight, eh?

By Tony C.

March 14, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this

I would have to see how my guys that are under contract feel about re-signing any of the vet UFAs we have before I did anything. If nothing else, it’s been painfully obvious that chemistry in the room has been a huge issue all season this year.

As far as possible destinations for Holik’s salary: ah nevermind, I forgot Stoll was an RFA.

Really liked to see the guys hitting last night. That’s something I think we should go for in the off season. Like say, Sean Avery-seriously. He’s like $1.7-2M, and yes while Armstrong is a similar kind of player, Avery is this generation’s Claude Lemieux-chirpy @sshole guy who has a timely goal or two in his stick-especially when the stakes go up, maybe not as clutch as the other Lemieux, but timely for sure. They’re the type of player you need on a serious contender-Avery will drop ‘em stick up for teammates and we’ve all seen how effective he can be throwing off his opposition’s players’ mojo.

By ranallo10

March 14, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

Bob — I think he was just saying that there are people who don’t feel Kovalchuk is the type of player that should be a captain. I can point you to a website (hockeybuzz.com) where the majority of message board posters do not know much about him, and see him as a whiny Russian kid who is a puck-hog.

They might be wrong, but they don’t feel he’d be a captain.

That’s how I interpreted Craig’s response.

By Stats

March 14, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

Another interesting thing about last night’s game is the fact that Kari Lehtonen wasn’t sharp and the Thrashers still won. Honestly, when was the last time you heard that?

CC - Actually, on Rawhide’s blog a few weeks back (I cannot find the post), he and I asked the same question -

When was the last time they won a game (in regulation) with a 5-4 or 6-5 score?

The answer I found was something like January… of 2007.

By Surly T

March 14, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this

My first chance to say “I toldya so” since I was one of the few excited about Kovy-Holik-Thorburn. The best Thrasher games this year have been very physical, which is why I never understood DW’s small-guy approach to our defense. Seriously, Ex and Enstrom (love him) and even Zhitnik get “runned-over” for turnovers and scoring chances in our own end multiple times a game. Puny centers lose faceoffs. Wimpy wingers lose board battles. It’s like DW latched onto the idea that the league was so fast and fluid that size doesn’t matter. Not so! A superstar like Kovalchuk will always create crazy opportunities but sometimes you have to be strong and tough to help him create space and pounce on rebounds.

So I say keep Holik and pay him market but not a penny more. He’s a solid veteran with respect in the room and around the league. Unfortunately, he never seems to “lead” on the ice. Holik seems humble enough that he will do what he’s asked to do, even if he’s not captain anymore. Like many here, I think Kovy should be captain, but I’m very intrigued by Craig’s comment that there are doubts about Kovy’s worthiness. What’s the scoop behind the scenes? His talent, hard work and passion are inspiring from the stands, but maybe he’s a judgmental jerk off the ice.

Careful Buzilla Waddell might offer you the job.

By Alan

March 14, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this

*just because a new line produced last night, doesn’t mean it will be replicated. *

It doesn’t mean it won’t be, either.

is he at 4gpg yet?

Lehtonen’s GAA is 2.98. But thanks for playing.

By Russ

March 14, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this

I’ll admit I run hot and cold in my support of Kari, but if you look at his numbers I really don’t get the constant bashing he takes from some people. According to ESPN.com he currently has a .911 save percentage, good for 18th in the league. At first glance that is pretty average, but when you consider that he is unquestionably playing behing one of, if not, the worst defensive teams in the league, suddenly a .911 percentage looks pretty good. I’d be willing to bet that if the Thrashers can ever trim 3-5 shots against per game Kari would be in the top ten, possibly top five goalies in save percentage. As always with Kari, his problem isn’t his performance on the ice, it is his durability issue. He still has just one season that he didn’t miss a significant number of games due to injury.

By Bob

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

I’m very intrigued by Craig’s comment that there are doubts about Kovy’s worthiness. What’s the scoop behind the scenes?

Craig’s the beat reporter, he can’t come out and give his opinion on the behind the scenes stuff to us, as that will cut off his access the guy’s give him.

You have to read between the lines there with what he said up there (and didn’t say). We see Kovy’s effort on the ice, but we’ve also seen him be shy on camera (except for the All Star game). The captain on a hockey club needs to be a guy that can stand up in the room and command respect and rally the boys when needed, or tear them a new one when called for. Kovy may not fit that. Doesn’t make him a bad teammate, some guys just aren’t born leaders. He has an A already, right? Mabye that’s enough for him and we need a guy more vocal who is also a POSITIVE force in the room (not Holik’s scowling and complaining all the time).

By Bob

March 14, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

As always with Kari, his problem isn’t his performance on the ice, it is his durability issue.

Concur, and I think he made strides forward this year. He would also, in the past, break down mentally after 4 or 5 strong starts in a row and seemed to have a hard time staying focused. But I think he progressed there this year.

I’d like to see what he could do behind an average defense, or hopefully one day, a real defense. The current regime can’t be trusted to fix that, they’ve swapped out dmen so many times it makes me dizzy, and the results are always the same. But a new GM could come in and slap together a solid defense pretty quickly, I’d think. I’d like to see what Kari could do next year behind an improved D.

By Universal Dawg

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

No. Do not bring back Holik. He is to old and slow and is always in the penalty box. We need more North Americans who are not afraid of contact in the corners or in front of the goal.

By Brendan

March 14, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this

Craig, with some luck, Holik won’t want to be back. Or a new GM will be hired who won’t bring Holik back at the salary he wants. Which I’m going to estimate at $2.75 million, or more. Personally, I think anyone paying over $1.5 million for Holik is paying too much. Especially for the “baggage” he brings.

I agree with Bob. I suspect that Holik is a very polarizing figure in that lockerroom. I believed he used the word “cancer.” I won’t disagree. And isn’t it a bit of slap in the face to bring the guy back, but not make him Captain? What it means is, “We didn’t think you did a very good job.”

Personally, I think it’s more than high time the Thrashers had a house cleaning and established a “new day” here at Blueland. And that means out with the old and in with the new. There’s a whole lot better ways to spend $4.25 million.

Ladies and Gentlemen, I beseech you, How hard is it to win a faceoff? If need be, the coach can make the players practice it every day, to the point where they can’t leave practice until they each win 10 of them. It’s what our coach used to make us do.

It’s also high time that the rightful leader of this franchise be recognized accordingly. Ilya Kovalchuk should be the Captain next year. It looks “bad” if he isn’t. He’s been here since 2001, with four 40 goal seasons, and is one of the team’s enforcers. Anyone “think” that Ilya isn’t the face of the franchise??

By ranallo10

March 14, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this

You have to read between the lines there with what he said up there (and didn’t say)

Or you just have to understand he was answering a question. Unless Craig clarifies his comments, we’ll have to keep inferring based on his reaction.

I know a Pittsburgh fan who thinks Kovalchuk would be a bad captain, so therefore I could say the same response that Custance did… “The answer to your question: Is there anybody in the hockey world who doubts Kovy should be captain…? is yes. There are people who doubt it.”

By MashaPlayer 7

March 14, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this

Back on the Kovy for C comment, a good captain doesn’t have to be vocal in the dressing room. He leads by example. Kovy does have selfish moments, but is becoming more complete and plays hard every night. Now Craig may have other “backroom” knowledge, but that is my view from the fan perch.

By MashaPlayer 7

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

Brendan - have you ever played Center? Winning face-offs are actually quite difficult..there’s a lot of strategy, knowing opponent’s tendencies, which side of the circle you are drawing from, physical strength, hand-eye coordination, quickness, etc. Look at the NHL stats - there is a very large minority of players who do it well every year. Guys like Holik are hard to find - I still woudn’t spend 2 mil on him though.

By Brendan

March 14, 2008 5:56 PM | Link to this

Knowing how to “cheat” a bit on a draw makes allll the difference in the world. I am a bit curious to see if any team’s statistician ever kept track of how many times a player had been thrown out of a draw. And is there a record for the number of times a player’s been booted out of the faceoff circle in the course of one game? Or for a whole season? If I had to guess, I’d say Roenick would lead the league in “tossed draws.” I don’t think it’s a stat that’s ever really been tracked.

By TrashSuckTonight

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

Blobby Holik can be retained but for alot less $. He can be a “great 4th line” center! (note non sequitor)

More importantly, if the owners don’t want to sell the team (please Rutherford? …dammit) you MUST fire Waddell if only for the fact he seems incapable of hiring a good coach. It is too bad because it seems the owners are tying his hands now, but just as well. You should let a new GM hire the coach. How many tries does DW get? Just because he makes decent trades does not mean he can develop talent. That is what the Trash need. And hang on to players for a change!

By Terry in Dahlonega

March 14, 2008 6:44 PM | Link to this

I would make Recchi the Captain next year - if he is resigned, which I think could be done for 1 Year/$1.25 Million.

Otherwise, Kovalchuk gets the “C”.

By R. Stroz

March 14, 2008 7:10 PM | Link to this

Newest Email to Season Ticket Holders

By Russian

March 14, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this

Same s** on ice today. Thrasher are not compete with any team on NHL. Terrible game. Kary is only one playing today. 1:3 after second. We got SG and Ovy out shoot us horrbly.

By truth

March 14, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this

TYPICAL LETEMIN. GOALS LESS THAN 2 MINUTES IN. BOTH 2ND AND 3RD PERIODS……

By joyaman

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

Craig:

Looks like it got pretty testy with BL when you asked the appropriate questions. Can’t beleive the whole “we’re a young team” routine, when Don has had a full decade to shape the team’s makeup and its destiny.

Please be aware that there is a grassroots effort of STHs now organizing as a block. We’ll let you know when we hold our next meeting.

-joyaman

By Get Real

March 14, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this

I just read the interview with a Thrasher owner…I was so appalled at what he said I’ve already forgotten which one…doesn’t matter ASG is a lame joke anyway. What has sickened me is that this guy was not in Blueland…he was in dream land.

He said he can’t evaluate Waddell on his whole tenure…only the three years he’s worked with him. WHAT?? When you hire someone, you evaluate them on their record. You evaluate their body of work. Why can’t you do that when you purchase a franchise? Even if you accept his flawed logic, then what success has Waddell had in the past three years? It was a fluke that the team made the playoffs as evidenced by the playoff sweep. As a coach Waddell is a loser as well.

What the ASG boneheads want to do is put a positive, unrealistic spin on Waddell’s performance for some reason. Last time I checked, in sports you are competing to win. You don’t win the Stanley Cup for coming in second. Almost making the playoffs is not a goal anyone strives for. Consistenly choosing first round draft picks who can’t make the starting lineup is hardly the player’s fault.

What does it take for ASG idiots to see that this franchise is not “heading in the right direction”?

By stendec

March 14, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this

Flushers continue to Falcon (tank) season! The CS can score six goals (count ‘em, six) against the Flames but only one against an inferior Capital ragtag group? Good old Letemin gave up his customary four goals including one to Achoo plus a shorthander. This untalented piece of crapola needs to be shipped back to Finland. As if Finland would have his sorry A++! Another mail-in effort. Atlanta sports followers can be D++N proud! Flushers laughingstock of NHL, Falcons ongoing NFL joke and Hawks eternally pathetic in NBA. Only Braves worth half a D++N at so-called professional level. Would like to see all new faces next season. That includes Ilya Kovalchuk who I finally realize is nothing more than an overrated Russian prima donna (no offense Russian, I like your posts). Like Falcons, NONE of these hopeless ball-less quitters are worth retaining! GO FLAMES!

By R. Stroz

March 14, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this

Craig - Great Interview!

You truely brought out the emptiness of the canned management answers.

Craig, for Pulitzer

By Brendan

March 14, 2008 10:12 PM | Link to this

Get Real, I would say … that the ASG is just trying to flip this franchise for a profit. As in, The whole acquisition of the team was based on money. Buy low. Sell high. If that’s your goal … shed payroll, don’t take on more, and keep whoever is still under contract. And folks, Waddell is under contract through 2009. That is, unless they’ve extended him.

You and I and others … we look at this sport as “fans.” We CARE about our team. We want to win. We’re passionate about hockey. These owners don’t. They want to make money. They want YOUR MONEY. The only thing they’ll understand, at this point, is cancellation and failure to further subsidize.

Once that message has been well and truly received, and completely understood by the ASG … Levenson will have to post a response that says, “We goofed. We’re sorry. And we want your business back. Don Waddell has been fired. Billy Knight has been fired. We’re going to try to win.” It’s that, or complete the sale of the teams and operating rights to Philips Arena … for a huge profit.

By LAC

March 14, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this

What a JOKE, this levenson needs professional help and NOW, he is about the only sober person I know who cannot see this MESS !

What was it tonight 12 SOG, 2 in the first period, a JOKE !!!!!

Then Mr.Potty Mouth says we are close… Hey Dumb A$$ close to what ??????? More LOSING ?

This liar cannot give a straight answer to save his life, just brutial to have someone like this in charge of a professional sports team and letting a TERRIBLE GM run wild with Bad draft picks, Awful UFA sigings, bot todd white is a great one !!!!

Then Marian Hossa tells it like it is, we SUX and this Sicko defends the GM ?????

What is he smokin or drinkin ????

This guy is a NUT an absolute NUT, Please somebody get levenson committed as soon as possible for the sake of the team.

Sorry Craig but YOU let this scum play you for a fool, damn shame some worthless turd like Mr.Potty Mouth controls the team… A man without a MIND !

By Tom

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

Craig

Excellent interview. I am sure that you are getting your resume ready as Mr. Levenson is not used to being put on the spot.

The level of hubris and lack of fundamental knowledge shown by his is impressive.

My impression is that he will maintain the status quo because he is afraid of looking stupid if Don’s successor does a worse job.

I sense a whithering of the franchise over the next couple of years as fan apathy sets in with the recognition that there is no motivation to put out a great product.

By Tom

March 14, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this

OMG

These owners sure do not have a friggin clue.

This year they offer huge discounts to those not buying season tickets and a price increase to boot.

So to make things right, instead of cutting a break on the burden of the loyal season tix holders, they came up with a new idea.

From the letter to the season tix holders:

Plus, you can be sure that we will raise the individual game ticket prices higher than the season ticket price increase of +4.3%. Thus, making your season ticket holder discount larger too.

Ah, so the feeling is this year we screwed you, and next year we are going to screw you even more. But that is okay because those new fans or occasional fans coming in, we are really going to screw them next year.

Do you wonder if the ownership of the Thrashers have worked for the government before? Because that convoluted thinking could only come out of a bureaucrats mouth.

These guys do not have a clue, do they. Remember when the Falcons were bought recently.

Ownership gave away the tickets to get a full house EVERY GAME. Then as the team improved and the crowd was solidly behind the team, they raised ticket prices.

If Vick had not imploded the concept would have worked. So the ASG has a great example 200 yards away and instead decide to screw all of their customers in a weak hockey market?

Maybe the Atlanta Spirit Group and Waddell deserve each other.

A Mutual Admiration Society That Worships Mediocrity.

By Brendan

March 14, 2008 11:08 PM | Link to this

Craig, I was astounded at Bruce Levenson’s answers to your thought-provoking questions. I have a question for you.

Ready? (Just say, “yes.”)

At any time during the interview, did you hit stop on the voice recorder and say, “No really, Bruce. The interview has started and I’m required, by journalistic integrity, to provide an ‘honest’ reply on your part for these questions. Do you really want to go on record with these kinds of responses? I mean, you’ll go out of business and never sell another ticket. This interview will be read by the league office and media outlets all across Canada. No Free Agent will sign here, if you can’t realize Don Waddell is the problem. These players won’t play for him, and neither will others. They’d first have to believe in his abilities before they’ll put forth effort for him. You have a genuine ‘crisis’ on your hands.”

And if so, was Bruce ‘offended’ that you’d stopped the interview to ask him if his incredulous answers were actually genuine?

The worst part of this blog entry is … that I’m deadly serious. Did you ever give Bruce the opportunity to amend his answers?

Because unless Bruce was auditioning to host “Saturday Night Live,” or something, he came off as something out of a “Fellini film.” Whoever posted that Bruce Levenson knows about hockey, due to his time with the Capitals, has just lost their credibility. Based on Bruce’s answers, I’m not sure this guy has a handle on being able to walk and chew gum at the same time.

I can respect only one of Bruce’s answers. When he said that players are responsible for their performance, and get paid a lot of money to play, he was right. But what he didn’t say … was what the ‘consequences’ would be, in terms of the punishing the ‘veteran’ players who sandbagged it. For example, will players with remaining years on their contracts, like Kozlov, Larsen, Havelid, Klee or Zhitnik be waived? If Bruce feels accountability rests with the underperforming players, what is their punishment? Did you ask him that?

By bob (other)

March 14, 2008 11:30 PM | Link to this

Bruce is a successful business person as are the other owners. They know what they are doing and so does DW. Many of the comments on these blogs show a high level of irrational, emotional thought. It is a business and it will get stronger based on the business plan that exists. Bruce’s answers are responsible and well thought out as will be the actions from the plan moving forward.

Bruce and Don are certainly much more qualified than anyone posting on these boards and are well respected within the league and the teams within the league.

Sorry if many of you cannot accept that.

By ranallo10

March 14, 2008 11:35 PM | Link to this

It’s a good thing Levenson compares this team’s ownership situation to that of Florida and Washington. I must say, those are two quality businesses to be compared to. Note I didn’t say “teams”.

Wow.

By Brendan

March 14, 2008 11:46 PM | Link to this

I wonder if Bruce Levenson thinks Keith Tkachuk is responsible for the Thrashers woes this year?, as an underperforming veteran player from last season. Or Eric Belanger. Or if Levenson thinks, perhaps, that the blame lies with Steve Rucchin?

I have to ask questions like these … because it’s truly hard to determine … what Bruce thinks he knows.

ASG, sell the teams and the rights to the Arena. You’ll make out like bandits. Pay out Belkin whatever “percentage” he initially invested at the TIME of purchase. Move on with your other business ventures and count your money from the sale. But do move on. While you still can. Fans aren’t going to pay to see your version of the NBA and NHL.

By bob (other)

March 14, 2008 11:50 PM | Link to this

He mentioned Fla and Wash as two teams in our division with similar ownership structure and cited there were MANY NHL franchises with this structure. He was not holding those as success models necessarily, but simply examples (2 of many) of similar ownership structures within the NHL.

By bob (other)

March 14, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this

Brenden, fans are not leaving in mass. I am a STH and everyone I know in my area since 1999 and shorter is renewing. The seats are $3 grand plus , ecah, so the ASG still has a strong core revenue stream, particulary with suite, club, sponsor and high end STH renewal. All season tix are of value but one seat very low is worth a few up above. That’s where the baseline dollars are.

By R. Stroz

March 15, 2008 12:02 AM | Link to this

bob (other) - Do you work for, or have you worked for, the ASG?

By bob (other)

March 15, 2008 12:11 AM | Link to this

R Stroz, Where I work is irrelevant to the facts. Frankly I am really sick of the fair weather negativity and feel compelled to try and serve as a voice of reason.But then again, everyone is entitled to an opinion. The opinion of our Fans is almost 16,000 average home attendance and renewal churn consistent with most other teams and most other years.

By enough

March 15, 2008 12:21 AM | Link to this

In nine drafts Waddell has produced a total of 4 nhl players that were drafted after the first round. I recently watched a Detroit game. They had 4 players on their team drafted in the 2005 draft alone that were drafted after the first round.

By enough

March 15, 2008 12:41 AM | Link to this

correction.

it was the 2002 draft.

By R. Stroz

March 15, 2008 1:30 AM | Link to this

bob (other) - It’s a yes or no question? The answer shows whether your opinion may be biased.

Your statements allude to internal ASG data, such as renewal churn. On a previous blog post, you stated renewal churn for the upcoming year is similar to prior years. What is the churn for this year compared to the last two years? Without the actual churn data, which would only be available to certain ASG employees, how can you factually make such an assertion?

By Brendan

March 15, 2008 1:40 AM | Link to this

Right now, I think there’s nothing short of a “P.R.” crisis going on. Fans are begging for change and accountability. Things may be about to change.

By Get Real

March 15, 2008 3:50 AM | Link to this

Brendan,

I would have to agree…this is a franchise gutting operation for profit that has gone badly wrong. Now I think they are just trying to do damage control. It is the only explanation, other than that these guys are complete idiots. Maybe we’re giving them too much credit here…

By Sage of Bluesland

March 15, 2008 5:37 AM | Link to this

Apparently, yet another letter was sent to the fans yesterday—one in which the owner who attended the THM (and exposed his rear end) “answers” commonly held questions by the fans.

Yeah, whoever can’t see this is in direct correlation to significantly slumping sales is truly bewieving in Bwuewand…

Good. This entire organization—from top-to-bottom—does not deserve any financial support whatsoever. To continue to buy tickets of ANY kind—with the belief that it is doing any ‘good’ beyond providing a mere evening’s worth of entertainment—is akin to simply throwing your money down one of Donny’s Port-a-Potties…

I, for one, am thrilled to see folks finally realize what this organization is all about and stop subsidizing the incompetence.

Keep it going, good people!

By Tom

March 15, 2008 7:11 AM | Link to this

Bob (other)

If you are a representative of the Thrashers posting on the board it is incumbent of you to let us know. The rest of us are true fans who care passionately about the team.

You on the other hand could be drawing a paycheck (or ownership share?) and that should be disclosed.

Or let me put it another way, if Brendan’s identity was revealed would that be newsworthy? If your identity was revealed, would that be newsworthy?

If there is a difference between the two then you should step forward as you are writing in a completely diffrent capacity.

By Buzzard

March 15, 2008 8:42 AM | Link to this

Bob (other)

Huh? You might be a fan, similar to the the occasional blue hair that has been a STH forever to some mediocre team and just needs something to pass the time.

Most paying sports fans want and expect competitive play, including reasonable numbers of trips to the post season.

If you buy into the fairy tales being told by the ASG and DW, I am sure Craig or Schultzie will do a nice article on you in 10 years about “I’ve been a STH forever and remember the wonderful 2006/2007 season”. Wake up.

By Sage of Bluesland

March 15, 2008 8:55 AM | Link to this

“R Stroz, Where I work is irrelevant to the facts. Frankly I am really sick of the fair weather negativity and feel compelled to try and serve as a voice of reason….”

Funny, but when I don’t answer the “irrelevant” sheeps’ questions about me, I’m labeled rather unfairly…How does it feel, sheep, with the shoe on the other foot?

Frankly, I’m really sick of this on-ice “product” we’ve been given. I’m really sick of the incompetent buffoon at GM who’s been here nearly a decade with zero playoff wins to show for it. I’m really sick of ownership that is indifferent to the well-being of the fans—the ones who directly subsidize this “product”.

It’s past time to boycott this “product”. It will be for the best-interests of the fans, long-term. Giving your hard-earned money to these clowns is doing nothing but throwing it away.

Buy Center-Ice and a new television—and you will be so far ahead it will be laughable…That is precisely what I did and I haven’t looked back…

My bank account also thought it was a good idea…You (all) will thank me later…

By Bob

March 15, 2008 9:53 AM | Link to this

bob (other) - Do you work for, or have you worked for, the ASG?

Stroz, that guy’s a plant. I suspected it all along since the first day he showed up earlier this year blogging using the exact same name as mine and posting the exact opposite opinions I had. At first I thought he’s just a maroon for using the same blog name, but it’s pretty obvious from his comments above that he’s inside the ASG. What a joke this management group is to resort to coming in and pulling that lame crap.

Custance, all I can say on that Levenson interview is thanks for asking the proper questions, good job. But as to his “answers”? Or should I say non-answers, did he even understand the questions? What a PR disaster this guy is. Wow. Just freakin’ wow. I am speechless, there’s nothing that needs to be said in response to that interview.

These cats don’t have the brains to see that Waddell is the problem. We are so screwed.

By Brendan

March 15, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this

Bob (real fan, longtime poster Bob), I think we are ‘screwed.’ Here’s what I think is going on. The ASG feels that the AJC has some “ax” to grind with them, and hates the team. Or something. We are posters at the “venomous” AJC blog, a product of the “hate-mongering” news outlet. So, in the ASG’s eyes, we are “poisoned” by a biased media outlet.

Therefore, the ASG doesn’t CARE what we, AJC bloggers, think. The ASG will run its business they way it sees fit. Namely, it has to move high-dollar inventory, in the form of suites and STH’s along the glass and lower bowl. If it gets its money, as Other Bob has suggested that it has, it will change … ABSOLUTELY NOTHING about the way it does business. Which means, Don Waddell won’t be getting fired. The ASG is “satisfied” with the implementation of its business plan.

I’m left wondering … who, if ANYONE, is ever ‘held accountable’ at the ASG? Let’s examine it. Bruce Levenson implies that accountability resides with the underachieving vets from last season. Or, “the players.” But, which players have been waived or traded? Well, Kiwi was put on waivers, but not as punishment, but rather to be reassigned to the AHL affiliate. And Hossa and Dupuis were traded, when the ASG’s hand was forced to salvage “assets.” If you want to argue that Hossa and Dupuis have been held ‘accountable,’ I won’t quibble with you. But I might just roll my eyes a bit.

Okay, some poster just screamed, Bob Hartley was held accountable? Hmmn. By the ASG?? Or by Don Waddell? In other words, did the ASG ever tell Don, “Fire that coach! And do it now!!” Shrugs. I don’t know. I doubt it, though. I think Don made the decision to fire Hartley. And the ownership group, which relies EXCLUSIVELY on Don’s judgement for all roster and personnel decisions, went along for the coffee and bagel ride. Perhaps they said, “Do whatever you feel is best.”

Then Levenson said something interesting. “We agreed that Don would remain on as Coach for a few games until a replacement could be found. But when things went so unbelievably well, going 11-4 in 15 games, and Don approached us to say, “Let’s call off the search,” Levenson agreed to Waddell’s judgement. Now, he says it was a “big mistake” to rely on Waddell’s judgement.

A-ha, grasshopper! Sadly, that’s only “mistake #1” in Bruce’s eyes, regarding Don Waddell’s acumen. Would YOU fire someone … over one mistake? Hmmn, probably not. And see, this is why we’re ‘screwed.’ This was HARDLY mistake #1 by Waddell, after 10 years, 8 seasons, 80 draft picks, one playoff berth, and no playoff wins. But for people like Bruce Levenson, he doesn’t see a need to review the “body of work” of Waddell beyond the last three years. Umm, because … now HOW did he phrase this part??? Ohhh yessss! Because he’s unsure how much Don’s hands may have been tied under previous ownership (!!!).

Laughing HYSTERICALLY!! BRUCE, buddy, if ANYONE’s handcuffing or binding Don’s hands, IT’S YOU!!!! We were $8 million ($50.3 million - $42.3 million = $8 million) under the cap on “Opening Night.” Please, do EXPLAIN it. And don’t tell me how you let him spend MAX CAP last year, because you only ARRIVED at that figure at the TRADE DEADLINE!!!!

Bruce, I beseech you, good sir. Sell the teams. Make a “boatload” of money. But do move on with non-sports related business ventures. Preferably, outside of the greater metropolitan Atlanta-area.

By NASCAR Dave

March 15, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this

WELL WHAT DO YOU KNOW???

TRASHERS are back. Are you surprised? I’M NOT.

PATHETIC, GUTLESS WIMPS! PATHETIC, LAUGHABLE COACHING. AND A GM WITHOUT A DAMN CLUE!

OUTSHOT! OUTHIT! OUTSKATED! OUTHUSSLED! OUTCOACHED! OUTCONDITIONED! EVERY DAMN NIGHT!!!!!!

And then the pathetic owners say “WE ARE MAKING PROGRESS”?????????

WTF!!! Have they been smoking crack? Or better yet, HAVE THEY EVEN WATCHED A DAMN GAME ALL SEASON??? WE SUCK A$$!!! AND IT’S WADDELL’S DAMN FAULT!

So what is the excuse this time? Too tired from a damn plane ride to Maryland? HOW FRICKIN PATHETIC!

EVERY PROBLEM = WADDELL’S FAULT.

WAY IN OVER HIS HEAD. TIME TO PULL THE PLUG ON HIS PATHETIC ATTEMPT AS AN NHL GM.

ASG ARE COMPLETE DOUCHEBAGS, BUT WE ALREADY KNEW THAT!

ASG MUST Fire Waddell! Enough is enough! WE CANNOT AND WILL NOT WAIT AROUND FOR ANOTHER 5 YEAR PLAN!

After 9 years, instead of moving forward, this franchise is moving backwards! ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!

Clean the damn house already!

TRUE FANS WILL BOYCOTT THE TEAM UNTIL THE PROPER CHANGES ARE MADE.

Absoulutely no excuse for this! You are an embarrassment to the City of Atlanta AND the NHL!

Was the tornado at Philips a SIGN???

By NASCAR Dave

March 15, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this

WELL WHAT DO YOU KNOW???

TRASHERS are back. Are you surprised? I’M NOT.

PATHETIC, GUTLESS WIMPS! PATHETIC, LAUGHABLE COACHING. AND A GM WITHOUT A DAMN CLUE!

OUTSHOT! OUTHIT! OUTSKATED! OUTHUSSLED! OUTCOACHED! OUTCONDITIONED! EVERY DAMN NIGHT!!!!!!

And then the pathetic owners say “WE ARE MAKING PROGRESS”?????????

WTF!!! Have they been smoking crack? Or better yet, HAVE THEY EVEN WATCHED A DAMN GAME ALL SEASON??? WE SUCK A$$!!! AND IT’S WADDELL’S DAMN FAULT!

So what is the excuse this time? Too tired from a damn plane ride to Maryland? HOW FRICKIN PATHETIC!

EVERY PROBLEM = WADDELL’S FAULT.

WAY IN OVER HIS HEAD. TIME TO PULL THE PLUG ON HIS PATHETIC ATTEMPT AS AN NHL GM.

ASG ARE COMPLETE DOUCHEBAGS, BUT WE ALREADY KNEW THAT!

ASG MUST Fire Waddell! Enough is enough! WE CANNOT AND WILL NOT WAIT AROUND FOR ANOTHER 5 YEAR PLAN!

After 9 years, instead of moving forward, this franchise is moving backwards! ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!

Clean the damn house already!

TRUE FANS WILL BOYCOTT THE TEAM UNTIL THE PROPER CHANGES ARE MADE.

Absoulutely no excuse for this! You are an embarrassment to the City of Atlanta AND the NHL!

Was the tornado at Philips a SIGN???

By NASCAR Dave

March 15, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this

WELL WHAT DO YOU KNOW???

TRASHERS are back. Are you surprised? I’M NOT.

PATHETIC, GUTLESS WIMPS! PATHETIC, LAUGHABLE COACHING. AND A GM WITHOUT A DAMN CLUE!

OUTSHOT! OUTHIT! OUTSKATED! OUTHUSSLED! OUTCOACHED! OUTCONDITIONED! EVERY DAMN NIGHT!!!!!!

And then the pathetic owners say “WE ARE MAKING PROGRESS”?????????

WTF!!! Have they been smoking crack? Or better yet, HAVE THEY EVEN WATCHED A DAMN GAME ALL SEASON??? WE SUCK A$$!!! AND IT’S WADDELL’S FAULT!

So what is the excuse this time? Too tired from a damn plane ride to Maryland? HOW FRICKIN PATHETIC!

EVERY PROBLEM = WADDELL’S FAULT.

WAY IN OVER HIS HEAD. TIME TO PULL THE PLUG ON HIS PATHETIC ATTEMPT AS AN NHL GM.

ASG ARE COMPLETE DOUCHEBAGS, BUT WE ALREADY KNEW THAT!

ASG MUST Fire Waddell! Enough is enough! WE CANNOT AND WILL NOT WAIT AROUND FOR ANOTHER 5 YEAR PLAN!

After 9 years, instead of moving forward, this franchise is moving backwards! ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!

Clean the damn house already!

TRUE FANS WILL BOYCOTT THE TEAM UNTIL THE PROPER CHANGES ARE MADE.

Absoulutely no excuse for this! You are an embarrassment to the City of Atlanta AND the NHL!

Was the tornado at Philips a SIGN???

By bob (other)

March 15, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

I am a STH, spend about $16K annually. Friends and fellow STH’s in our area control approximately 60+ seats as individuals, not corporations. Every one of them have renewed, representing about $300K. That equals approximately 10,000 seats in the 300 level, or 250 STH packages. Bottom line is between the core lower level STH renewals, club seat renewals and suite renewals, which are primarily corporate, there is no mass defection of renewals. Renewals were increased last year with All Star Game aspect. So for approximately every three upper level non renewals, one lower level seat offsets. I realize most of the blogs in the ajc site and the Thrasher site are in the upper levels, although there are some in the lower who have expressed intent not to renew.

Ticket prices will and should continue to go up, just like most everything else. Bruce is telling it staright.

If you negative people who can certainly express your opinions, do not want to support the team, that’s your prerogative, but the connection to a mass revolt is just simply unfounded.

If you choose not to support, your loss in my view.

Since each of you must certainly be qualified, it would seem your names will be on the short lists of any NHL franchise looking for Executive Management assistance.

By kat

March 15, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this

@ Bob (other): Bruce is telling it staright.

Quote from Bruce today: “I think that this franchise is moving in the right direction.”

If you - ANY of you - agree that going from SE division champs to 2nd worst team in the league is “telling it straight” and “moving in the right direction”, then ROTFLMAO!!! and I have a bridge to sell you.

By SAM211247

March 15, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this

Sad fact is that most AHL teams could beat Vice President/General Manager/Head Coach Don Waddell’s version of an NHL team.

When they fire Waddell, they should fire all the scouts too.

By Josh

March 15, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this

Friends and fellow STH’s in our area control approximately 60+ seats as individuals, not corporations. Every one of them have renewed, representing about $300K.

What section are you in? Some of us would like verification of your statement.

By bob (other)

March 15, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this

To clarify, I do not work for the ASG and am not a plant as referenced above through inaccurate speculative comments by “Bob”.

Although any business should respect and be receptive to any customer comments, the vast majority of comments and actions are overwhelmingly positive in terms of renewal and sustained support. The 30 or so regular posters on the boards are a small minority of highly negative opinion. Many fans, including me are disappointed in this season’s results, but also understand that the NHL is a parity league right now and we are not far from making moves to pull our results up toward the top of the league. Spending to the cap max also doesn’t equate to success. I cite the NYR, 1 cup in 67 years.

Folks, real support, is buying tickets, merchandising and cheering on the team, players and organization. Face it, like it or not, ownership will determine management and management will operate the business.Our ownership and GM are qualified professionals and will build a solid ,successful franchise over the long term. A sustainable model is much preferred to a couple year aberration, taht has occurred with some other franchises. How many cups has Ottawa won? Toronto? San Jose? Philly, NYR, Boston? Get a grip people…

By Josh

March 15, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

Are you gonna answer my question bob (other)?

What section are you in?

By bob (other)

March 15, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this

Josh, you can do the math on STH seat costs in the loer bowl…say sections 114, 115, 116 for example. About $4K per seat for STH. Get out your calculator.

All customers are valuable, but any organization will give preference to its best customers. Best customers would be defined as those which spend the most, require least maintenance and repeat annually.That loyalty is rewarded in different ways, but in the NHL is generally handled via added value STH benefits and ASG is moving to further differentiate that process as they should.

By bob (other)

March 15, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this

116.

By GSU-Lee

March 15, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this

Hope everyone is staying safe out there. Craig, you get back alright?…we all know writers can get caught in DC…

By Brendan

March 15, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

You know what the difference is between the Thrashers and the NY Rangers, in terms of hockey results?

Answer: We haven’t been around to fail to win Cups for 67 years. But give it time. Don Waddell’s a young man, still. He might be live to be 92! He’s got a 40-year plan. And by the way, the Rangers swept us in 2007.

Just think, you 300-400 level Thrasher fans, if you just had more disposable income, YOU could be enabling Don Waddell, too!

Just out of curiosity, if any of you saw an alcholic, would you offer him a beer? Or six-pack? Or a 12-pack? Why not be his best, most important client and give him a CASE of beer? A “boozehound” is a qualified, professional alcholic, after all, who knows BEST how to handle a case of beer. You or I would “mismanage” that case of beer. Perhaps spilling it. Squandering it in some way. Maybe giving too much of it away to passerbys, or fellow drunks. We’d get “fleeced” in trades for blankets, cans of soup, or cab fare to the City Mission.

Have you not seen the results of the Waddell Administration? Have you not witnessed the draft history? The player development? The plethora of coaches? I have no doubt that the business plan is being advanced flawlessly. They should make lots of money when they flip this team for a cool $50 million. Which is what’s coming.

Good for them. They saw a business opportunity, and will “cha-ching” … cash-in on it. That’s just SUPER for them, really. Hope you guys in 116 are the loudest around. The upper mezzanine will be mighty quiet and empty. Not that a “blessed soul” cares about it at the “Elitest” ASG. And why should they? They’ve got all that “lower bowl” money subsidizing their every move. And decision. Like retaining Waddell, after 10 years. And however many years Billy Knight has been here.

They’ll be happiest when every last “blue collar” fan has been priced out of the arena. Nice job. That’s only the “pulse” of the fanbase. That TV viewership will surely be on the rise! They’re well on their way. What a great “business plan.” Blueland will be rockin’. Don’t underestimate the bombast of the latte-sippin’, tennis-playing, country club-membership crowd. What the NHL needs now … is white gloves, polite clapping … and doilies.

I’ll take the DEAD LAST finishes that translate into Stanley Cups every time. That’s how you “reload.” I see no reason to champion our ability to hover around the middle of the pack, playing “meaningful games in March,” and sliding into the postseason at the #7 or #8 spot, only to be eliminated year-after-year, and never really be in a POWER position come draft day, to fix anything. Let’s watch all the FREE AGENTS banging down Don’s door to sign to play in Atlanta this Summer. There should be a TON of them!

Guess how I know that, for sure? It’s because Bruce Levenson told me so, in Craig Custance’s Interview. “I think we know how to sign Free Agents.” That’s a paraphrashed a bit, but does capture the gist of it.

By Alan

March 15, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this

There’s been almost nothing here in Jonesboro, stormwise. I’m thankful for that. I hope everyone who are in other areas are safe and sound, though, and I hope your families are also safe.

By bob (other)

March 15, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this

Brendan, another rant that convolutes any reasonable facts. How old are you? 12?

By Brendan

March 15, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this

I just checked, the Ottawa Senators have made the playoffs for the past 10 seasons, and are headed there again, for an 11th-straight time. They’ve been a “100-point” team for six of the past eight (6/8) seasons. It must have been hard, trying times, filled with despair and misery, for fans of that club, since 1997.

How DO they go on??? Let’s all say a prayer for them. PJ, are you in the house? Can you craft a prayer for the Senators fans? To keep them strong. To fill them with hope, for the future. They’re going to have to be strong soldiers now. I mean, they have no Cups in their history. And they’re so very far away …. Weren’t they swept out of the playoffs last year, in the first round?

(Psst! Hey Brendan?) What, I’m in the middle of a post. “Uh huh. Uh huh. No kidding, all the way to the Finals. Did they win? They didn’t?! Good! How badly did they lose? Five games, huh. Yeah, I guess they do “suck.” Laughing. I’ll tell you, as a Thrasher fan, I’m very reassured by that news. And it’s good to know that we’re not like the Ottawa Senators. Unlike the Senators, we’re on the right path. Bruce Levenson told me so.

By bob (other)

March 15, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this

Brendan, please answer as “some of us would like verification”, or perhaps Josh can advise.

You guys are unbelievable.

By Brendan

March 15, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this

If you’re “intolerant” to my position on Thrashers matters, that’s rather unfortunate for you. I have every right to hold my opinions and to express them. In fact, I just did.

By Brendan

March 15, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this

1. Question answered.

By bob (other)

March 15, 2008 5:46 PM | Link to this

Brendan, again you are wrong. I am not intolerant of your position, just disagree with it. Your rants are emotionally based. And you did not answer the question if you are 12.

Most fans are disappointed, but I’d argue fans are most committed when they invest in the team, otherwise it’s idle chatter…kind of like your points.

By bob (other)

March 15, 2008 6:00 PM | Link to this

Brendan and the other dissenters… It analagous politicaly to being in the Green Party. You guys are passionate, but in the minority and basically irrelevant in the operations of the National Hockey League.

But the freedom of expression is most welcome.

By Stewie

March 15, 2008 6:24 PM | Link to this

Soooo, what you guys talkin’ about, hockey?

By Get Real

March 15, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this

bob (other), Please! All dissenters are not operating out of emotion. Frankly, I’d like to know how you make your living. If you manage a business in Atlanta, I sure want to work with you. You must be the biggest pushover of a boss that ever lived. You obviously don’t care about performance. The bottom line of operating a sports franchise is winning. Success feeds off that. Revenue feeds off that. The longer your franchise is a mess, the greater the level of dissatisfaction in the fan base. Over time, people lose interest in losers who generate negativity all the time.

Yes, you are correct, in the world of corporations, patients, television views, and sports fans are marginalized…irrelevant, I think you said. But that works only in the short term. Eventually, eroding support and negative perceptions will kill profits. Only winning matters to fans. Do that or in the end, ASG will discover how “relevant” the fans really are.

By Get Real

March 15, 2008 6:44 PM | Link to this

Bob (other),

One other thing. What do you think “investing” in the Thrashers will get you? If your only investment is as a STH, then it gets you a night in an arena with ice on the floor. So far, it has not gotten you much hope for a winning team. With Waddell and ASG at the helm, it doesn’t look as though your “investment” is going to pay off in wins any time soon.

Fans want a winner. We don’t want to hobnob with corporate accounts we don’t know or care anything about. We want to root for a team that is competitive at least. I doubt you are really a true fan.

By Josh

March 15, 2008 6:54 PM | Link to this

Thanks, bob (other). So, who is with me taking a survey in 116 next game, to see if the poster above is legit?

After all, he said “Every one of them have renewed,”

I call a bluff on that.

By ROBO2779

March 15, 2008 7:09 PM | Link to this

Our ownership and GM are qualified professionals and will build a solid ,successful franchise over the long term.

ROFLMAO!!! THIS GUY IS DUMB AS HELL!!!

By Ray

March 15, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this

Bob(other) is probably legit. I’m in 107 and will be renewing along with several others who sit around us. It’s great to be passionate, but it’s better to take a few deep breaths before posting.

By MB

March 15, 2008 8:02 PM | Link to this

If you’d like to take a brief break from the squabbling, check out this article from TSN about the relative return on investment for players throughout the pay scale.

I didn’t have time to thoroughly digest it, but it’s some good info to have in mind as you consider the relative value of individual players.

You may now return to your sniping.

By Tony C.

March 15, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this

The point of the matter is that Management continues to ask the fan base for patience-yet the fan base has endured upwards of seven years of loosing and ridicule.

Granted ASG has only had a hand in 3 of those years. But asking an already weary fan base to continue to show patience is, in fact, insulting and more than a little wishful. Especially considering the promises made to said fanbase from ASG

By bob(other)

March 15, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this

way to go Ray, let’s turn these boards into something positive and combat the negativity. What’s important is we support our team and make good moves going forward. Sounds like that intention is certainly the plan.

Although a disappointing season, there have been positives we can build on.

By Smoothie

March 15, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this

Hey boob (other) — it’s not really HYPER-negativity when the majority of the bloggers here are actually speaking in terms of the reality that is the ASG. I get so riled by pollyannas like you who dismiss any comments that are even moderately negative because true fans would never question more powerful and knowledgeable people. It’s a good think our Founding Fathers never questioned English Imperialism…oh wait.

I guess it’s more important to have the luxury of more disposable income than the masses of dedicated fans in the upper deck. Well, all that disposable income will get you is a cold, leather seat closer to the ice where a supposedly NHL team fails to put forth even 40 minutes of consistent and determined effort on a regular basis.

If you do not realize the reality that is staring you in the face (the second oldest team in the league, spotty inconsistent goaltending, pussified defense and not even a modicum of effective offensive strategy), then your deep-pocketed naivete will get you nothing but fleeced by “(an) ownership and GM (who) are qualified professionals and (who) will build a solid ,successful franchise over the long term.”

By the way, what is your definition of long-term? Most fledgling businesses who take such a long-term approach to getting off the ground usually cease to exist in 4 or 5 years. Keep drinkin’ the kool-aid, but it will take at least 3-4 more years of blind dedication to even sniff the playoffs again.

By WW5

March 16, 2008 12:16 AM | Link to this

HEY BRUCE - IS LETEMIN MOVING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION - LAST WEEK 2.98GA, THIS WEEK 3.01GA!!

By LAC

March 16, 2008 12:48 AM | Link to this

“other” bob… Do you have blinders on or what ?

I want to be talking about WINS, GOAL, SHUTOUTS and US Kicking the Crap out of the rest of the NHL…

But due to the FACTS, now “other”bob, remember THAT word…. FACTS, we are OLD, SLOW, NO DEFENSE, POOR GOALTENDING, and 12 SOG in a game, come on who are YOU kidding.

We are ALL discussing what we have here, FACT near LAST in NHL, 2nd most GA in NHL and so on…

Yet you see a bright side to this ?

I suppose the Tornado last night was a natural urban renewal project too ?

Why do you not face FACTS, that word again “other” bob, don waddell is the WORST GM in All Professional sports, bar none, the owners of this team are a bunch of panty wastes who most likely have to have someone change their diapers everyday for them.

What the FACTS are this team SUXS because of one man DUMB don waddell, and the “owners” are just as stupid.

To not fire waddell is THE Biggest mistake this team could ever make, he has all but killed NHL hockey here, and Idiot thinking people like YOU “other” bob, need to open your eyes and suck it up and admit waddell is a failure and move on.

Serious fans Like Brenden, who knows more about NHL hockey than most here, Sage, NASCARDAVE and myself see the problem. But narrow minded whiners like YOU “other” bob, are happy with the status quo and tolorate failure and lack of effort every game. Do you work for a living, because if you do… I’d like to know how mank McDonald’s you have graced during your lackluster career, while REAL winners want results !!! We want a Winner Here, but as long as waddell and Atlanta STUPID GOOFS led by Mr.Potty Mouth levenson, there is NO hope for a winner here on Philips Arena Ice…

Still waiting levenson, my 6 companies against YOUR ownership spot, an I Quit match, no time limit, no DQ, Brenden & Sage ref Craig reports, got the guts levenson ??? I DO !

By NASCAR Dave

March 16, 2008 1:15 AM | Link to this

People, please don’t misunderstand my posts. I love the Thrashers. I WANT THEM TO WIN. I DO NOT CONDONE TANKING. I only want what is best for the team in the present and in the future. It is time to cut ties with Don Waddell and move our franchise forward. Waddell has had plenty of time, and in the end, the results are just not acceptable enough to the majority of the fanbase. These owners may not realize it YET, because they have only been around for 3 years. But the true fans realize it, because we have patiently waited around for 9 years for things to change, BUT THEY ONLY GET WORSE EVERY YEAR! Don Waddell has shown a clear lack of ability at running an NHL team. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!

Thrashers website reports after game last night Thrashers flew down to South FLA and checked into hotel. Practice was today at 1:00. Nothing but rest from end of practice to gametime 5:00 tomorrow.

Who wants to bet the LAZY WIMPS look crappy as hell again tonight and get Outshot, Outhit, Outskated, and Outhussled? I DO!!!

WHAT WILL THE EXCUSE BE THIS TIME? South FLA hookers kept them up too late??? WE’LL SEE…

This is the LACK OF CONDITIONING and LACK OF COACHING SKILLS i’ve been telling you about all season!

AND I’LL SAY IT A THOUSAND TIMES AGAIN, BECAUSE IT IS TRUE…. EVERYTHING WRONG WITH THE TEAM CAN BE DIRECTLY BLAMED ON DON WADDELL!

His GM incompetence set the team up for failure prior to start of the season.

He fired Bob Hartley only to deflect the blame from his DIRECT RESPONSIBLITY for the team’s failures.

You fools can sit here all day and night and try to spin it the other way, but the TRUE Thrasher fans are NOT stupid! WE SEE THE PROBLEM. DON WADDELL.

NUFF SAID.

By volgrad1985

March 16, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

I’ve been somewhat of a lurker on this and other Thrasher blogs most of the past couple of seasons. But it’s time to speak out. My apologies to the group of negatively frustrated fans here, but I’m gonna have to side with (other)Bob and Ray on this one.

I am as disappointed and ticked off as all of you. But a fan, or STH, revolt is not the answer. If you want the Thrashers to be considered a strong organization, you have to treat them like one and commit to support the team, through thick and thin.

To head you all off at the path, I will answer all of the requisite “qualification” questions: No, I do not work for ASG. Yes, I am a STH that has renewed for next year. No, I am not 12 years old (I’m 44, in fact). No, I’m not a fan of the ASG, but I do think that re-starting with a new coach, FA players signings, the draft, and a new GM would be too much in one off season, so I support holding on to Waddell right now. Yes, I understand the concept of our raising ticket prices, and I do not think they are too expensive compared to the rest of the league after talking to some of my business associates who live in other NHL cities. Yes, I think the new STH benefits package outlined in the letter from Levenson is more than adequate compared to others around the league (which I have done some research on).

OK, now that’s out of the way. My personal opinion (and face it, anyone blogging here is no expert, but is only offering their own opinion), is that, in a league of parity such as the NHL, the Thrashers really are not that far away. To me, their greatest needs are to identify the type or style of team we want to be, get the right head coach for whatever type of team we will be, install a true system that we can execute on ice, and acquire the right 4 to 6 FA signees and call ups.

Again, I concur with the more “positive” thinking fans on this blog. Take a deep breath, think about what it means to be a “true fan” of a team, whether it is struggling to gain its identity or not, and support your team with some class.

By MOTT647

March 16, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

WITH LETEMIN’S TYPICAL 3-4 GOALS LET IN PER GAME, THRASHERS MUST SCORE 6 TO BALANCE THE DAMAGE. TOUGH TO WIN THAT WAY…

By Sage of Bluesland

March 16, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this

Brendan—OUTSTANDING post 3/15; 4:57pm…OtherSheep is attempting to spin with the best of them, but it’s pitiful.

I’d like to agree with someone else who remarked what a good job Custance did with the Levenson interview. It WAS outstanding.

It also showed the thoughts of the “braintrust” of this organization. If anyone was on the fence when it comes to deciding whether to renew (or buy) season tickets, THIS should be information enough to stop the purchase, which will be nothing more than a mistake.

Take the money and buy a new TV and CenterIce—and enjoy real NHL-level hockey by organizations/teams that truly CARE about winning.

The propagandizing sheep are running scared—as with the Spirit boys…I can assure you of that. I can most definitely assure you of that.

STOP SUBSIDIZING THE INCOMPETENCE. The ‘real’ fans are making their presence felt in a very positive way—now keep it going!

By Craig Custance

March 16, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this

volgrad: Thanks for posting, it’s good to have new voices in the mix.

I’ll blog more on the Q and A after practice Monday, but the comments I’m getting are interesting. Some thought it was too harsh/opinionated while others thought I should have pressed the issue more on some of the answers. Either way, I appreciate the feedback and e-mails I’ve been getting.

By PJ

March 16, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

Craig

Great reporting! I don’t tell you often enough how much I enjoy reading your work. Thanks for asking the hard questions. I can’t imagine the Levenson you interviewed looked all smiley and jovial as the picture in the paper. Care to share?

Do you know what the lines will look like today (Sunday)?

And may I ask when the baby is due?

By Josh

March 16, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this

So bob (other) and Ray must be the same person…

By Serge45

March 16, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this

Reading the Q and A makes me sick. Sure you can stick with Don, and people like him, but the bottom line is he’s not gtting it done. ASG doesn’t want to fire DW cause they don’t have somebody with the hockey knowledge to go out and get a good GM. DW is their most trusted hockey lieutenant, their hands are tied, and it’s a shame.

By TRON

March 16, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this

HEY BRUCE……..IS 16 WINS IN REGULATION “MOVING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION???”

OR MAYBE THE 34 LOSSES (20 OF THEM LETEMIN’S)…… IS THAT A BETTER EXAMPLE OF “MOVING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION???”

By Get Real

March 16, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this

One thing I resent is when people dismiss you as overly negative when your opinion is the exact opposite of theirs. All most of us are doing is stating the facts about a team that ranks near the bottom in most of the competitive categories in the league. They are a team in disarray-from ownership all the way down through the organization. For the past three years it has been this way. Even when we made the playoffs, you could see how fragile an organization and team we have after being swept in an ugly fashion and then couldn’t carry a little of that success forward into this season. So even the one bright light we’ve had in 10 years has become a negative.

The pollyannas here can argue of course that this is a matter of perspective. But being an Atlanta native, I’ve grown quite accustomed to hearing professional sports managment say year after year, “wait ‘til next year” or “We really had some great things to build on this year”…blah, blah, blah…while they keep losing year after year. Frankly, after 45 years of that, it gets quite old.

The Thrashers have been with DW since the beginning. Seems to me the fans have been extremely patient and supportive over this span. I for one am tired of watching the train wreck that is ASG continue to “thrash” about like a dying animal while our best players leave with nothing comparable in return.

How many more years will we have to wait? Or are we to just accept mediocrity forever? I would like to know where you, Other Bob, would draw the line? Where will the pollyannas draw the line and say “enough is enough”?

By bob (other)

March 16, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this

volgrad, pretty well summed up. Thanks

By bob (other)

March 16, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

Josh, bob (other) and ray are not the same person. Where do you guys get this stuff…what idiotic speculation. Go support (or tear down)something else if you don’t want to support the Thrashers.

By Midfield

March 16, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this

Consider this: Levenson lost it at the THM. This one, I’m sure, he was doing his home work for to control the damage. Anybody has an idea about how much of what he said is true? Craig, when you looked in Levenson’s eyes, what did you see?

By Lew318

March 16, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this

I am watching the Fla Debacle. These players should be ashamed of themselves. Other than Kovy, Enstrom and som e of the new kids, none of them look like they are trying.

How do you say no pride, no heart, don’t give a damn….BUT THEY’LL STILL BE PICKING UP THE PAYCHECK!!

This is unexcusable. Why even show up. Even now for the first time (yes, I am slow) I am beginning to believe none of us should show for the final home games. What a message that would send!!!

I hope levenson is watching this stellar performance

By LAC

March 16, 2008 6:02 PM | Link to this

I am wondering if the “other” bob is not Craig Custance… Seems Craig is siding with the people who support asg… Sad, I really wish Craig would ask The TOUGH questions ?

Ask Mr. Potty Mouth if he’ll take me on Craig my 6 companies for his owners spot, Sage & Brendan refs and YOU report… I doubt it.

Yet ANOTHER WHO CARES Game effort by the LOSERS waddell has assembled this team could hardly beat ECHL teams,but thisis PROGRESS, levenson come on you panty waste show some GUTS you LOSER !

By LAC

March 16, 2008 6:02 PM | Link to this

I am wondering if the “other” bob is not Craig Custance… Seems Craig is siding with the people who support asg… Sad, I really wish Craig would ask The TOUGH questions ?

Ask Mr. Potty Mouth if he’ll take me on Craig my 6 companies for his owners spot, Sage & Brendan refs and YOU report… I doubt it.

Yet ANOTHER WHO CARES Game effort by the LOSERS waddell has assembled this team could hardly beat ECHL teams,but thisis PROGRESS, levenson come on you panty waste show some GUTS you LOSER !

By TRON

March 16, 2008 6:33 PM | Link to this

CRAIG CUSTANCE, WHEN YOU ASK LEVENSON LAC’S QUESTION, ALSO ASK HIM WHAT HAPPENED TO ALL THE PROMOTIONAL GIVEAWAYS………. I SEEM TO REMEMBER PLENTY MORE IN PREVIOUS YEARS………

By Sage of Bluesland

March 16, 2008 6:33 PM | Link to this

HaHa, LAC! I’d be honored to ‘ref’ the rear-kicking performance you would deliver the silver-spoon-in-mouth buffoon!

As for the game today, actually the Thrashers have nearly perfected the “lull-to-sleep” method, whereby the opponent gets to such an early and easy lead—and then they stop taking us seriously…They lose complete focus and we start to climb back in and gain some momentum.

If the opponent took us even three-quarters seriously (estimated) all game long, the finals would be in the neighborhood of 6 or 7 (them) to 2 (us)…Of course, those are estimates as well…

Yet the buffoonish owner, GM, and sheepish fans like the “direction” we’re going! Yeah, with Don Waddell’s track record at, umm, “building” a legitimate team, why would anyone question the decisions being made?!

It really is a shame—the fans deserve so much better than what we’ve been given. Spin it any way you want; however, this is the truth.

WAKE UP, ATLANTA—STOP SUBSIDIZING THE INCOMPETENCE.

By LAC

March 16, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this

Thanks Sage, one supporter… Something needs to happen, this mess is NOT going to get one bit better.

Everyone should be fed up with the BS waddell has put togather, I got a laugh out levenson saying he knows only of three years of waddell, what an IDIOT, shows he is NO Hockey fan…

Did everyone see the rush in the 3rd period ? Where if slave gave a damn he could have shot the rebound in over the goalie… But, he coasted in when the puck was heading back up ice… This guy has turtled this season in every respect !

Come on Craig I am waiting ask Mr.Potty Mouth if he has the GUTS !!!

By TRON

March 16, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this

HEY BRUCE…….. 12TH LOSS IN 14 GAMES. THAT’S MOVING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION, RIGHT???

By TRON

March 16, 2008 9:12 PM | Link to this

HEY BRUCE………. IS THE 9TH ROAD LOSS IN A ROW CONSIDERED TO BE “MOVING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION???………. JUST WONDERING…………..

By MB

March 16, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this

LAC, you had your chance to attend the THM and ask Levenson your questions directly, but chose not to attend. Now, however, you’re full of bluster, asking CC to issue ridiculous schoolyard challenges to Levenson on your behalf.

Behind the weight of your 6 companies, why don’t YOU schedule a meeting with Levenson for yourself and issue your challenge in person?

If your issue is with Levenson, why not deal with him directly? Custance is a journalist, not an amateur Don King.

By stendec

March 16, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this

Another Falcon (tank) job by Flushers! Fumigation not enough. Send all these untalented quitters packing. ALL OF THEM! Moose gave up three goals. Not as pathetic as Letemin but far from acceptable! Ilya Kovalchuk popped in a goal. BFD! Hard to get excited when other team posts three. To the Panthers to boot! Not many more mail-ins left but enough to aggravate true Flusher watchers. Truly Falcons on ice! That, unfortunately, says it all. GO FLAMES!

By TRON

March 16, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this

BRUCE…….ONE OF THE TOP 10 FORWARDS IN THE LEAGUE REFUSED TO SIGN WITH YOUR TEAM BECAUSE HE “DID NOT LIKE THE DIRECTION THE TEAM WAS HEADED.”………..WOULD THAT BE CONSIDERED “MOVING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION???”

WHAT ABOUT GOING FROM 3RD IN THE EASTERN CONFERENCE TO 2ND FROM LAST IN THE EASTERN CONFERENCE, ALL IN LESS THAN 365 DAYS???…………………. IS THAT “MOVING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION???”

By stendec

March 16, 2008 11:28 PM | Link to this

I agree with one of above posts. With the Letemin-Moose duo this team must score four to six goals per game to be competitive! Flushers average about a goal per outing! Not gonna happen. Ever. GO FLAMES!

By R. Stroz

March 17, 2008 2:28 AM | Link to this

bob(other) - Based on the numbers you provided, I feel it’s safe to say you have four season ticket strips in 116 at a cost of $90.00/seat.

This helps to account for the difference in season ticket renewals in your section versus other sections. The ticket prices in your section(116) were not discounted as in many other sections. Hence, the season ticket holders in your section don’t feel that the ASG devalued your seats by selling your ticket stratum for .50 cents on the dollar.

The ticket prices in sections 112- 118 and sections 107-101 were not discounted by 50% as in sections 108-111, 119-122, 201-222, and 301-320. As you can see, the seats in the majority of the arena have been discounted.

Therefore, I would anticipate that ticket package holders in the discounted sections are considerably more upset than ticket package holders in the non-discounted sections.

Consequently, your sampling may be flawed based on your seat location.

If you had the opportunity to ask customers who were in sections of the arena where the seats were discounted, you may find a considerably lower renewal rate.

In regards to the Thrashers management placing a higher value on their customers who shell out more money, I would agree with you up to a point. Your 60 friends which spend 300,000 on seats do bring in a disproportionate share of the revenue.

However, the NHL has addressed the issue “of playing up to a certain fan base” in how team revenue sharing is calculated. In order to procure revenue sharing, the NHL mandates certain attendence numbers. In order to meet those numbers this year, the Thrashers have incessantly discounted tickets throughout most of the arena. This discounting, along with the team’s poor performance, has caused the fan base to become disgruntled.

I’m glad you support the team. I support the team as well, especially in the stands. You can ask nearly anyone who has sat within four section of me, I’m very loud and proud of it. I enjoy annoying fans who come to support the opposing team.

My issue is two fold:

1) I want a low price guarantee when I purchase my ticket package. You may feel differently next year if your seats are discounted thoughout the season due to poor attendence numbers and league mandated attendence requirements.

2) I want a team, which by a variety of metrics, is not consistently in the bottom 25% of the league and is not making changes to remove itself from the bottom 25%. Would you continue to keep a company in your equity portfolio which continued to underperform the other equity positions in your portfolio over a nine year period?

Although, we will probably still agree to disagree; hopefully, the aforementioned points will help you understand the view of the disgruntled fans.

By the way, if Thrashers management keeps the promises made in their emails, I’ll be back in my seats. However, I’ll have to wait until around July 15th to see if that happens. In the meantime, I’m sitting on my wallet.

By Ray

March 17, 2008 8:54 AM | Link to this

R. Stroz,

Good note. You brought up excellent points, in a reasoned manner without resorting to ALL CAP YELLING and sophmoric rhetoric. The fact that Bob(other), I and others in our sections are purchasing season tickets next year does not change the problem that deeply discounting seats in sections where other STH sit is an issue.

If teams are required, per BL, to sell a certain number of seats per game, they should price season tickets at such a level that they sell at least 10k season ticket packages. The fact they aren’t selling this many indicates prices are too high, regardless of where Thrashers prices are relative to other teams. Doing this would obviate the need to offer discounts during the season.

By NASCAR Dave

March 17, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this

SEE, I tried to TELL YOU! Who showed up in South Florida last night? The GUTLESS QUITTERS! This team is SO predictable! LOL!

They had 26 hours of rest before the game, and they come out and score 1 DAMN GOAL? Absolutely PATHETIC!

And again, who’s fault is that? Who is in charge of having the team conditioned and ready to play an NHL game at the scheduled time? Well, that is the coaches, McCrimmon and Waddell. And clearly neither one of them have NHL coaching abilities. AHL calibre at best.

Looks to me like DWAD is telling the boys to intentionally TANK IT, which is something I do not condone. In fact, that is an offense that should get people fired IMO.

Ok people, time to take off your blinders, wipe your tired eyes, and accept the reality in front of you….

Don Waddell created this PATHETIC PILE OF DOGGIE POO and Don Waddell is the one that is going to have to answer for the results on the ice.

If you think this team is “headed in the right direction” with that COMPLETE MORON Don Waddell at the helm, then I have some beautiful ocean front property in North Georgia i’d like to sell you!!!

Wait a minute, I thought at the trade deadline Waddell said he was not going to trade our UFA’s because he thought we “had a legitimate chance at the playoffs.” Well, based on the trade he made, he is once again “building for the future.”

So, to summarize, he is trying to build for the future, but at the same time he is saying the exact opposite!!! SO WHICH ONE IS IT, DWAD??? You are talking out of both sides of your mouth now! I think maybe you should worry a little more about getting YOUR GUTLESS, SORRY, PATHETIC TEAM READY TO PLAY A DAMN GAME WITH SOME PRIDE!

It is ABSOLUTELY DISGUSTING to me that people think Waddell is doing a good job! You people are NUTS!!!

I think I would rather watch a Lifetime Special Movie Presentation with my woman than watch these GUTLESS COWARDS go out there and TANK THE REST OF THE SEASON.

WAKE UP ATLANTA FANS…. STOP FUELING THE FIRE!!!

STOP SUBSIDIZING THE INCOMPETENCE!!!

SPEAK TO THE OWNERS WITH YOUR WALLETS!!!

BOYCOTT THE TRASHERS UNTIL THE NECESSARY CHANGES ARE MADE…. STARTING WITH FIRING DON WADDELL AND BRAD MCCRIMMON!!!

Just please, all I ask is that you LOOK AT THE FACTS! After 9 years, this franchise is at the same place we were 9 years ago………. WHAT IS THE ONE CONSTANT? Don Waddell.

NUFF SAID.

GO DAWGS!

By NASCAR Dave

March 17, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this

GAVAHOKIE CAN YOU HELP ME OUT? I’M TRYING TO FILL OUT MY BRACKETS. I SEE THE DAWGS, BUT WHERE ARE THE HOKIES? OH YEAH, THAT’S RIGHT….. THEY’RE NOT THERE BECAUSE THEY AREN’T GOOD ENOUGH!!!!

HAHAHAHAHAHA!!!

GO DAWGS!

NUFF SAID.

By R. Stroz

March 17, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this

Craig - Have you heard of any call ups from Chicago(crossing my fingers for Valabik)?

By J.O.S.H. 733

March 17, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

HEY BRUCE………… WOULD THE TEAMS COMBINED +/- OF -48 BE CONSIDERED, IN YOUR OPINION, “MOVING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION”?……………….. OR WHAT ABOUT THE FACT IT’S BEEN IN THE NEGATIVES ALL SEASON LONG…………….. IS THAT A BETTER EXAMPLE OF “MOVING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION”?……………………. PLEASE, ENLIGHTEN ME……………..

By MOTT647

March 17, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this

BRUCE…….. YESTERDAY THEY OUTSHOT THEIR OPPONENT FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE JANAURY 2, 2008………… IS THAT A BETTER EXAMPLE OF “MOVING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION”?……………

By TRON

March 17, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this

HEY BRUCE……….. IN YOUR HONEST OPINION, WHICH OF THE FOLLOWING WOULD BETTER CLASSIFY AS “MOVING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION”?…………… BEING OUTSHOT BY OUR OPPONENTS BY 568 SHOTS (SEASON TOTALS THUS FAR)………… 1ST PERIOD GOALS FOR OF 52 TO 67 AGAINST……….. 2ND PERIOD GOALS FOR OF 62 TO 88 AGAINST………… OR 3RD PERIOD GOALS FOR OF 67 TO 83 AGAINST…………. WHICH WOULD BE A BETTER EXAMPLE OF “MOVING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION”???……………………. JUST WONDERING……………..

By Bob

March 17, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this

So, now the plant is trying to say that all the highest paying customers down low are happy (of which I’m one) and that only those up in the cheap seats are unhappy? Yeah, that makes a lot of sense, lol.

The least happy, I would think, would be the ones shelling out the most for this debacle over the past 8 years. I know that’s how the guys in my section feel.

Levenson knows that the guy he called a “smart a*” at the THM is a guy from The Nasty Next. I know that the guys who’ve started up the 2nd Fire Waddell site sit up in Section 319. So, now we’ve got the angle of the Spirit saying these are just the guys up in the rafters and who cares about you as our high paying customers down low are the ones that are all re-newing? Uh huh, sure they are.

By the way, Spirit boys, the guys and gals in The Nasty Nest are some of your most fervant supporters and backers. You better believe if they’re p**, a lot of us down low are as well. Try a different angle than this “us vs. them”, that makes you look more idiotic than, uh, never mind, you can’t make yourself look more idiotic than the “answers” you gave Custance.

By Josh

March 17, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this

Hey Bob, this Ray and Bob (Other) are one in the same person. This is a panic move by the Spirit (or someone with very close ties to the organization) to try to positively spin and reverse the damage Levenson provided in his “interview”.

Did you notice how Bob/Ray just showed up right after the interview came out….. hmmmmmm.

By Josh (other)

March 17, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

Heh, heh…yeah…or maybe Nascar Dave and J.O.S.H. 733 and MOTT647 and TRON are all the same person.

Yeah, heh, heh…that would be cool.

By NASCAR Dave

March 17, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

Hokie - Haven’t you learned from Michael Vick? You shouldn’t smoke marijuana. It’s clearly making you paranoid, Sparky.

I speak the truth, and I don’t have time to moonlight as Rogue posts.

I think your just a bit upset about your CHOKIES!

NUFF SAID.

By Rone

March 17, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this

Nascar Dave,

I just knew you would open your trap about the Dawgs this morning. What a fairweather piece of work you are. Don’t make me copy and paste your statements from a couple of weeks ago where you stated that you did not care about Basketball. If I look around on other blogs, I’ll bet I can find a rant from you calling for the coach’s head before their wins this weekend.

Nuff said.

By Brendan

March 17, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this

I want to thank Bob for being someone in the lower bowl who is using his influence to try to effect changes in Thrasher management/philosophy.

If you give a case of beer, every single week, to a boozehound, he’ll never get clean and sober. He’ll never change. Why would he? He’s found himself an “enabler.” The “boozehound” in this example is the ASG. And the beer supplier is the STH shelling out the most money to support a product that isn’t trying to be better itself beyond middle of the pack. That STH deserves BETTER than that. They’re the ones forking over the money. It’s the ASG’s job to improve the product. They’ll say they’re “trying to do that.” “Give us your STH money, and we’ll invest in free agents this summer.”

Well, this is an election year. So we’re all a bit more acutely aware of empty promises when we hear them. When the free agents turn out to be Tier II guys, or less, just happy to have a new multi-year contract SOMEWHERE, ANYWHERE in the league, it’ll be too late to get your money back. Want more mid-30 year olds, at “bargain barrel” prices? If you do, then by all means, Re-up! If you are satisfied with the results (zero playoff wins, one berth) you’ve seen thus far, through eight seasons, by all means … pony up the dough and renew. But if you’re dissatisfied, vote with your wallet. And tell them, “don’t tell me what you’re going to do, show me, and I’ll be happy to renew.” They’ll all be back, in droves, after that.

It’s not like fans like to be doing this to their team. It’s just that, out of options, they’ve reached the “very last resort.” Imagine what the announcement of a new GM over the Summer would do for improved sales? And re-energized belief in the direction of the team.

Now, some of you will claim, “That’s a minority opinion.” As in, “every year, you’re bound to have some segment of the fan base displeased. But generally-speaking, the vast majority is not upset.” I’d like to see some polling data on that.

I can hear it now, “you’re polling the non-STHs who aren’t in the lower bowl. The poll must be conducted with the lower bowl STHs.” Fine. Let’s poll the lower bowl. If 80% of them are “thrilled” and renewing, the boozehounds will get their case of beer, and the “Green Party” has just be shutout of yet another election. And the ASG shrugs, while thinking, “Oh well. Mama always said ‘you can’t please everyone.’ Or more realistically, the ASG is thinking, “Ohh, those are just ‘disgruntled people’ anyway, who will NEVER be happy. So who CARES??” Wonderful, isn’t it?

By Get Real

March 18, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this

STH’s in the lower bowl are often business people who buy tickets to entertain clients. I’ve gone to Thrashers games many times on corporate accounts. Naturally, if the game is too exciting, how in the world can goods or services be sold? The client will actually WANT to watch.