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Saturday, May 10, 2008
Gearon: Support coming, not replacements
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Panama City Beach, FL — You know, you try to get away for a few days and naturally, that’s when rumors start flying. The weather has been great here in Florida, thanks for asking. What? You don’t care? You want to know about Don Waddell’s future?
Here’s the latest. I spoke with Atlanta Spirit Co-Owner Michael Gearon this morning from my lovely white plastic chair overlooking the ocean here at The Chateau (only two roaches so far, not bad. And no, I’m not kidding). Like I blogged before, I spoke to Gearon at the Billy Knight resignation presser earlier this week where Gearon talked about a possible expanded role for Don Waddell and more help for the Thrashers front office.
I gave you guys the heads up, and started prepping for a more in-depth story upon my return from Florida on Monday. That’s when I started getting calls from people wondering if Waddell was asked to step down as GM. I’ve already thanked friend, and respected colleague Scott Burnside for that.
Gearon said via cell this morning, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that Waddell has not been asked to step down from his post as general manager. He called any reports that say otherwise “completely false.”
What hasn’t changed is the possibility that Waddell’s role could expand into a different position with the Atlanta Spirit and that the Spirit plans on bringing help in the Thrashers front office. On Wednesday, Gearon said they weren’t yet at the point where they had specific titles in mind. Could I see a day where Waddell is Bernie Mullin’s replacement and another GM Is brought in? Absolutely. But Gearon said any additions to the front office is to make sure the franchise has “the right support mechanisms” in place for Waddell, not to replace him.
As for Don, he said he’s in scouting meetings all day today although I’m still hopeful of getting a couple minutes of his time. I’ll let you know if I do. Oh, and if you hear from Bruce Levenson, tell him to call me back. I’ll have my cell at the pool.
