AJC > Sports > Thrashers > Blog > Archives > 2008 > May > 10 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USGearon: 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.
Comments
By Tony C.
May 10, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this
Sweet.
Don must be a really likeable guy.
BTW, CC nice quote in Burnside’s article-wait he didn’t attribute it to you
Anyway, I agree-you’ve got to do something
By Tony C.
May 10, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this
And just so everyone’s clear:
I’m kidding CC, I’m sure Burnside has his own sources
By LAC
May 10, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this
Hey Craig…STILL WAITING for you to ask either waddell or these owners what THEY think about the constant blasting they take in the blogs and how many people consider them a complete JOKE esp waddell who needs to be FIRED not promoted.
Please answer the question, it isa fair one considering all you have to do is read the blogs…OK?
To promote waddell is like making Bonnie & Clyde bank presidents, simply out of this world crazy.
What are these owners on ? They have to be on an out of touch with reality drug or something…
In sports who gives a damn about being nice… Wins count.
waddell well respected in the NHL… I know several in other cities with other teams and esp a guy in St.Louis and they all think waddell is no good and has really hurt the Thrashers to the point it will take years if ever to fix.
Our STAR players see the mess, the fans, for the most part, see ths mess, why in the HELL can these IDIOT owners see it.
Simply put don waddell, while a nice guy, has failed to produce in Atlanta and has had way too long to fix things, to promote him is simply something only a drunk would do… but with the the sprit boys…you are most likely right or WORSE.
By Gavs
May 10, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this
What has changed here is that Brandan, Tony C and the rest of these fellas have left us for HABS INSIDE OUT and their trivia show, with games, guests and prizes. Pretty boys up there too, all with their pearly white teeth..Gotts em all too. Well, dang done it, time to go back and see their show, Heeeee Haaaaw.
By Dixon Cox
May 10, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this
There should be more Atlasnta boys talking ups our sports teams here in this darn tootin city of ours. Lets see about all the good things going ons in Hotlanta, there,s ahh, well there,s ah, hmm, lets think on this, gotta be some th…
By Sage of Bluesland
May 10, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this
That bumbling, lisping idiot Waddell is getting a promotion?!
Yes, there is such a thing as the ‘Peter Principle’.
The fans don’t deserve this. Stop subsidizing the incompetence, if you want ‘real’ change—not mere window dressing.
How insulting and offensive. Stop enabling this disaster. You will if you are a ‘real’ fan of the Atlanta Thrashers…
By Sage of VD
May 10, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this
Girls and boys with hot asses, How do you get an I Talian into a legitamate business..THROUGH THE ROOF Whats the difference between an I Talian grandma and an elephant…50 POUNDS AND A BLACK DRESS. What do you call a mix of an Italian and a Negroid…An offer you cant understand.
By 12345
May 10, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this
What a bunch of sicko’s on the blog.
Take your BS elsewhere…toronto ot some other frozen lost area GO AWAY !
By Wondering Wanda
May 10, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this
Is it just me, or is Bruce Levenson NOT being allowed to speak on behalf of hockey operations anymore after alienating so many of the fans with his attitude and diction?
What does Gearon even know about hockey? He is supposed to be the BASKETBALL guy.
Micheal Gearon couldn’t tell the difference between a hockey puck and a thug felon convicted of dog fighting.
By Sam
May 10, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this
That was so freakin* unprofessional for Gearon to have that conversation with you in the first place. Does that make it a “scoop”….I don’t know. You ask, he answers. But along the way, both of you should have exercised some better judgement, IMO. Imagine how Don Waddell feels. How did he hear it first? Did he read it on ajc.com or espn.com? Did someone say to him, “Hey, sorry you got canned?”
How can an owernship group…OK, specifically Gearon…be so unprofessional? What a cluster-f*ck. Whether you like Waddell as GM or not…treat the guy with some respect and professionalism. How can the ASG be seen as anything short of incompetent when they don’t even talk amongst themselves before talking to the press? Yeah, I want THEM hiring an NHL coach and running my draft, all before it starts in 6 weeks. Then there’s Kari Lehtonen to re-sign. Wow, that’s an ownership group with planning and foresight…NOT. They need Waddell. Especially since their Hawks GM just resigned on them.
By truehockeyfan
May 10, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this
ONe of the hardest things to do is build a franchise from the bottom up. DW has had his share of bad luck .that is for sure. the death of dan snyder, goalies falling by the way side. three different ownerships. Give the man one more year to see what happens. No one is more passionate about hockey than DW. No one wants to win more that DW. I believe DW will get it right.DW ahs never shied away from a hard job in his life, he won’t shy away from this one.
By kracker
May 10, 2008 5:29 PM | Link to this
Like I said before, hopefully, Gearon’s comments are the classic “vote of confidence” given just before the firing or in this case the promotion clearing the way for a competent GM to be hired.
By 12345
May 10, 2008 5:50 PM | Link to this
My fav site is HABS INSIDE/OUT AND LIKE TO GO TO pEACH tREE sTREET AND LOOK AT THE HOTTIE bLACK BOYS. White boys are cute too, but those asses are so tight, oil you up, leave on that jock and turn..SLOWLY/ DO IT NOW, SLAVE ahhh. Niiiccceee. Thrashers suck too.
By truehockeyfan
May 10, 2008 6:08 PM | Link to this
Whatz upp 12345, why all the fancy smanchy bkkk lerned name/ yuu cum downn here an talk to uz like tat, we aint no norfernerz here, weuns jus like hee hawz an smok,nn weeds and weunz like ourz cuzzinz for a lovin time, boyz n girlz.
By 12345
May 10, 2008 7:31 PM | Link to this
Hey sicko, quit showing us ALL what a complete a* you are, go play on a blog where only SICK people are allowed, and let us talk hockey something a wimp like you knows NOTHING about…using the same name how cute !
By 37890
May 10, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this
You want a piece of me, b***, come to Habs inside/out just ask for The Teacher, and I will put you back on a plane, 910 sttyle/
By Hockeyfan
May 10, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this
Craig I thought one of the reasons Bernie was let go had to do with duplication of services. So why would they put Waddell in Bernie’s old spot? Unless they call it something different…
Oh, when are they going to start banning IP addresses?
By ranallo10
May 10, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this
Hockeyfan — Don’t expect something like IP banning to happen, or else the AJC comment boards will be barren of messages. Take a look at the Falcons blogs, the Terrence Moore respondents, or the Clayton County BOE stories…the amounts of profanity laden, racially and culturally insensitive posts far outweighs the less emotionally driven opines.
So for the time being, we’ll have to deal with the Habs fans. One day they’ll realize how childish they’re (or likely “he is”) being.
By Tony C.
May 10, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this
NAH, JUST PING-FLOOD HIM. OR SIGN HIM UP FOR BEASTIALITY ACCOUNTS…SOMETHING JUICY FOR HOMELAND SECURITY TO GET ALL EXCITED ABOUT.
By Think About It
May 10, 2008 10:16 PM | Link to this
Question: How would some of you losers like it if someone came to your place of employment and constantly tried to get you fired?
Answer: You Wouldn’t.
By Tony C.
May 10, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this
Think About It-uhm…what exactly are you talking about?
If it’s about my comments at the top Craig being “quoted”…I was joking. If it’s about Don Waddell, umm it kind of goes with the territory at his position. Trust me, if he were GM of the Flyers, and had the track record he does, waking up to complimentary U-Haul trucks on his lawn would be getting off light.
You don’t become the Vice President AND General Manager AND Head Coach of a major sports franchise in North America with the expectation that people will offer their opinion unasked, and often rudely. It’s part of the job, and a large part of why I’m willing to bet his current net worth has more commas than mine or most folks that (indirectly)pay his salary
By tHOUGHT ABOUT IT.
May 10, 2008 10:42 PM | Link to this
You morons should be honored to have the Massa here watching over your loser teams. So shut upand have relations with your relatives, as usual. When Massa speaks, peasnts listen. Vick is an abuser, Waddell is an abuser, Falcon fans are abused, and Braves are like all Southerners, over the Bunker Hill. Hee Haw.
By Brendan
May 10, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this
Sage, unless this is all “posturing” for the media, things won’t be getting better anytime soon. It’s a little unbelievable.
And every YEAR that we don’t remove Waddell, we take another step BACKWARDS in the chase for the Cup.
By Gavs
May 11, 2008 12:04 AM | Link to this
Brendan, wanna pinch t** with a guy.
By BigBill
May 11, 2008 12:25 AM | Link to this
This little artical is from an artical in the Ottawa Citizen…
Seems both #15 & #18 are better off not in Atlanta… Remember we ARE moving in the right direction !
It’s the ton-of-fun line. Hossa and Heatley are both having fun, with a change of uniform and a fresh image.
By Big Thrill
May 11, 2008 12:42 AM | Link to this
Hey Bill, up late, eh, what are you wearing? Lets see, put a jock on, turn around, real sloooow, thats right. Lets oil tou up a bit, lets see it shimmer and shake, nice and meaty. Off with yjr strap, smeels good, eh. Ahhh.
By Esmerelda
May 11, 2008 12:56 AM | Link to this
Hola Gringos, como estas to you. This is the hockey goddess, Esmeeeeerelda, she and her 36-24-36 of pire woman del tierre del fuegp, Land of Fire. I keep the boys hot and ready for the seezon, spice you up, and turn you out, cha cha ching Gringo. EsMEEEEEERELDA WILL MELT THE ICE FOR JOU. Cum see heeer and sistr Penelope at Habs inside/out. Rapido muchachos.
By Canada_Sucks
May 11, 2008 4:21 AM | Link to this
Can AJC block the IP address of this sick B******* it’s really nuts to allow a nutcase like this to continue this type conduct.
Yeah sicko I’ll stick my .45 in your face and watch it blow up…
By Brendan
May 11, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this
Relax. Eventually, they’ll find a new flavor of the month, Canad_Sucks. Or maybe not.
By Anonymous
May 11, 2008 12:20 PM | Link to this
Will someone go to Habs inside/out sign in, then simply post a message The teacher sucks. Tahts it, we will be gone for good.
By The Other Bob
May 11, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this
Anonymous - Sounds logical…but unfortunately, that is excactly what the little moron wants us to do…go to the web site and increase the “hits”. Don’t do them the favor.
Let the little punk have his run…then, like the panty waste he is, he’ll run away to something else.
By Canada Sucks
May 11, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this
Sorry I got so upset before. Just went to that site, and there IS someone named Teacher, he told me that a poster named Habguy was thrown off their site, and due in part to something Teach did, so he,s trying to cause trouble there. They really do have a trivia show, and winners get prizes, so off I go, me and my boyfriend Bruno.Hee Haw. Lets have another Hotlanta Olympics, and another war, A REAL YANK BLAST.
By ranallo10
May 11, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this
I bet they’re doing the same thing to Washington boards due to the Huet trade.
By ranallo and america sucks
May 11, 2008 6:25 PM | Link to this
And the hoooooomo of the braaave. HA HA HA, TALK ABOUT TRADES, where,s Tkachuk and Hossa, oops, did you give up all your prospects for a four game sweep by the Rangers, hhhhhhhhhaaaaaa. Broom tome, rebel f*. How about those Falcons, oops, PETA reps around. Go win a war and get back to your Massa Habs inside/out and Rangers Report. Peachtree Street bath houses are officially open. Look, a Plane.
By ranallo10
May 11, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this
Hahaha, for someone from another place, he/she sure knows a ton about this city.
You must yearn for a home that doesn’t speak a derivation of French…
And for the record, I’m from Los Angeles…I don’t even know what the hell “hee haw” is.
By NASCAR Dave
May 11, 2008 7:04 PM | Link to this
HEY YOU DUMB HABS LOSER… HEE HAW TOOK PLACE IN NASHVILLE… GO HECKLE THE PREDS BOARDS ABOUT IT YOU UGLY PIECE OF HORSESHIT!!!
By NASCAR Dave
May 11, 2008 7:07 PM | Link to this
SO, what’s the deal???
Has Don FRAUDell been FIRED yet???
Is he DONE Waddell yet???
Can we look forward to brighter days yet, or are we stuck with the jackass STILL???
NUFF SAID.
By NASCAR Dave
May 11, 2008 7:19 PM | Link to this
USA USA USA USA USA USA USA SMD Sucks my dildo. a plane and a colored and a carcrash Vrooooooooooooooooo.
By NASCAR GAY VE
May 11, 2008 7:23 PM | Link to this
Canada, oh Canada, my home and native land, I love Canada, hate America and all the colored fans la la. Going to a NASCAR, la la la , la la la gonna get a fastcar, la la la , la la la, gonna go to a gay bar, la la la , la la la moneys in a tin jar, la la la , la la la. Blind and just too far.
By NASCAR HOMO
May 11, 2008 8:13 PM | Link to this
Kiss My Grits.
By badhatharry
May 12, 2008 9:11 AM | Link to this
Frustrated with the Atlanta spirit? Don’t just post here e-mail them directly as well. We need to overwhelm them with e-mails until they start to listen to the fans. owners@atlantaspirit.com
By Bob
May 12, 2008 9:34 AM | Link to this
Nice backpedal by Gearon. I don’t know if the Spirit boys are worse sports owners or PR spinners, it’s a toss up there.
It’s obvious that they’re trying to get Waddell to stay and work through this extension they paid him, while relieving him of his GM duties and allowing all of them to save some face.
But in the process, they’re making themselves out to be more inept than we thought (which is pretty tough to do after we’ve seen the likes of the Belkin cluster and non-resolution, the Knight cluster, the Waddell cluster, Levenson insulting his season ticket holders at a Chalk Talk). These guys could displace Barnum and Bailey’s act with their 3 ring circus.
By GaVaHokie
May 12, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this
Did everyone see the Pens Flyers Game 2?
Dupuis still can’t finish a shot to save his life… as usual, beautiful move to the net, stone hands on the shot.
Coburn got “knocked the f*** out”.
By WW5
May 12, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this
give dw bernie’s old job and he could use letemin as his office boy
By NASCAR Dave
May 12, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this
Hey HABGUY…
I guess you must be lonely being the ONLY Hab fan here in Atlanta… because you ARE here in Atlanta.
No one here is fooled.
By NASCAR Dave
May 12, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this
Coburn got “knocked the f* out”.
HOKIE - That’s kinda mean spirited, don’t you think???
He took a damn puck to eye!!! NASCAR Dave thinks you should be praying for a quick recovery for Braydon… Injuries like that can blind you for life!!!
It is completely unnecessary to poke fun at the matter, don’t you think???
By NASCAR Dave
May 12, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this
CUSTANCE - Don FRAUDell is similar to Hillary Clinton…
They both need to do the “noble” thing, and step down… however, both of them are being stubborn and letting their pride get in the way.
Some people just can’t see when they have FAILED, huh???
By Alan
May 12, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this
HOKIE - That’s kinda mean spirited, don’t you think???
No. The truth hurts. And his comment is the truth in its most raw form, is it not? Did Coburn not get knocked the f*** out? He did.
Do I hope for a recovery? Sure I do! But he still got knocked the f*** out.
By NASCAR Daves Mom
May 12, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this
Yes, my pretty little muchachos, Dave is queer and here, loves the Peach Tree Gay bars, he had a wife, but said he plays with himself too much. Dav,esfather spanked him, (which he liked), and then turned around and said, “Now do me”.We are very disfunctional here, Hee Haw is cancelled, all the good colords are taken, and Dave is back on that ledge, meds you know, Daaaaaave, Daaaave, Oops.
By Alan
May 12, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this
Hey GAVS, I was watching Hee Haw when I saw Rannallo stick his finger up your bum. I missed what happened then. Also, I couldn’t hear because GAVS was laughing and moaning too loud, saying he liked it.
By GaVaHokie
May 12, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this
*HOKIE - That’s kinda mean spirited, don’t you think??? *
Since when are you the sensitive one? :)
By Teacher
May 12, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this
HabsInside/Out blames Don Wadell for our playoff failures.
Mr. Boone would like to speak with Don Wadell about this matter.
By GAVAHokie
May 12, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this
Alan, Rannallo is posting as you at Habfans.com - No more Hee Haw for him and his loverboy Anonymous,,,
By NASCAR Dave
May 12, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this
Yes, my pretty little muchachos,……
Allright dude, now you’re starting to p** NASCAR Dave off!!!
NASCAR Dave thinks you are a 12 year old immigrant from Canada living in your mother’s basement here in Atlanta.
Would this be an accurate depiction of your pathetic excuse of a life???
Yeah, I thought so loser.
NUFF SAID.
By Mike Boone Habs Inside Out
May 12, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this
AJC, To Whom iy May Concern, We have a problem on our site, there is a fan named NASCAR Dave who is posting slanderous and illicit language on our site. Please, if there are moderators at this site, please let him know that we are taking this up with our reps. To this person, Habs inside/out is a truly friendly hockey site for Montreal fans to enjoy, and we allowconversation with anyone. YOU, are no longer welcome.
By Pierre CHampoux
May 12, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this
Mrss GaVaHokie and NASCAR, PLEASE be informed that both of your memberships with the Le Fountaineau Bath House on Peachtree Steet have expired, if you would like to reregister, please see me in my offices Mon, Wed and Thurs from 1pm-5pm. We are having a two for one sale, and are currently washing the men for you.
By The Teacher
May 12, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this
The person you are looking for that is writing these nasty messages is called Habsguy at our site HIO, I was informed someone was using my name here, hope this helps. It shouldnt happen again, sorry.
By Tony C.
May 12, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this
Heehee.
gay jokes
heeeheeehee
By Mike Boone
May 12, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this
I’m gay and Pierre Champoux is my lover. Teacher likes to watch with a ruler in hand.
By GaVaHokie
May 12, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this
I have to say, the AJC moderators are doing a phenomenal job… kudos! Thanks for looking out for us! (sarcasm)
By The Joker
May 12, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this
Are all these idiot Habs fans actually Belkin, Gearon Jr., Levenson, and Seydel?
By NASCAR CANADA
May 12, 2008 5:21 PM | Link to this
NOW WE,RE COOKING, Hominy Grits and Kittles and Bits, (dont wanna forget my good friend Vick), Pecan Pie and Shoefly, Oh My,.. Butter me up with some yams and some greens, Nascar YOURE THE HUNKIEST MAN WEZ EVER SEENS.
By Alan
May 12, 2008 5:40 PM | Link to this
Hokie - You mean these comments are moderated?? Who knew?!
By The Joker
May 12, 2008 5:45 PM | Link to this
I will gladly purchase our Habs fan a half season ticket package in section 319 or 320 as long as he agrees to wearing his Habs jersey to every game, brings a Habs flag with him, and waves his flag whenever the team playing the Thrashers scores.
By Nascar Dave
May 12, 2008 6:09 PM | Link to this
Joker, great one, maybe we should put that flag up his you know where, like I did to your Moms last night, she screamed Atlantaaaaaa. Just make mine with a Swsztika.
By Gary
May 12, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this
Hi Brendan. Maybe now you can view me as a more reliable source than bob (other). Would you agree?
By The Joker
May 12, 2008 6:41 PM | Link to this
So Habs fan, who signs in as everyone elses’ name, are you going to take me up on the ticket offer or are you to much of a pu$$y to show up?
By NASCAR Dave
May 12, 2008 6:51 PM | Link to this
HAB TROLL - NASCAR Dave sez come on down and visit me out back in the woodshed. I’ll give you an a$$-whoopin’ you’ll never forget. Keep it up, tough guy. You’re a real class act.
Maybe you’re an ILLEGAL immigrant, too??? Wouldn’t surprise me…
Loser.
By MARIAN HOSSA
May 12, 2008 6:54 PM | Link to this
F++K THE HABS — THEY SUCK A$$!
LOST TO THE MEASLEY FLYERS… HOW PATHETIC…
By Robert E Pee
May 12, 2008 7:12 PM | Link to this
Thats my men, get em riled up, now attack attack, we havent lost the battle, put those kettles on, ladies, and get thems mens off to War. I wish I was in Dixie Land, Dixie Land, Dixie Land, I, …wait a darm pickin minute…We Lost, Its Over. Well, Darn tootins. Where,s my boy Nascar Dave. Gave him that name as the tot DROVE mE CRAZY. Wez A little kinky here, I smaked his bottoms, turned and said, “Now do Me”. Loved it. Atlanta in the Playoffs since I left, Darn tootin.
By uLYSSES gRANT
May 12, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this
I wish I was in Dicks E lAND, dICKS e Land, Dicks E lAND, Wish I was in Dicks E Land, and with Gavs and Nascar the Homo all day, all day.Horray. Where would I rather be than Hotlanta, Well, North Korea, Bunker Hill as a Southerner. An Atlanta school house. An Atlanta arean in May and June..EMPTY.
By Tony C.
May 12, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this
This is what a San Jose columnist had to say-I believe it applies to a certain executive with the ASG’s hockey operations.
“Keep in mind, too, that Wilson has won all of those games with a team payroll that resides in the bottom third of the league. That’s not mentioned much in hockey, because the NHL has had a salary cap since 2006. But the Sharks’ front office has never spent up to the cap limit. Dallas’ payroll is about $8 million larger than the Sharks’ estimated $41.7 million. Might the coach want to go looking for a team with a bigger wallet? Might it not be better for all parties to part ways? Just thinking out loud here”
Full article to be found here.
Now that Ronnie got canned, what do you honestly think our chances of (A) signing him, and (B) getting deep into playoffs with Wilson as bench-boss?
Just curious-I’m not entirely sold on R. Wilson being the best answer to our woes (I was hoping for Dougie Wilson).
By ranallo10
May 12, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this
Tony C. — As I said on the other board, I don’t think Atlanta will be the final candidate for Wilson’s next employer.
If you were Ron Wilson (a proven successful coach), would you come to all the crap here? Bad owners, GM with not much to show for his 8 years in charge, a team built of 3rd liners (and a few standout players, one superstar), a LOWER salary commitment than his previous team…what’s there to offer?
By Ron Wilson
May 12, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this
Dear Gaylanta fans, per the request by your fans for my services, that wont happen, as I plan on directing a team that has some kind of plan and stability, and has an owner with a foucs. I also dont want to bring my family into a ghetto city that can really use a total cleanup. Thanks for the invite, but as far as Atlanta and me goes, HEE hAW, no.
By Brendan
May 12, 2008 11:55 PM | Link to this
Gary, I’ve lost the reference to your previous post. But as a general comment, I like to read all sorts of opinions. “Different thoughts” are good for me. It’s a discussion blog. I hope to find ideas that hadn’t otherwise occurred to me.
Don Waddell has his ardent fans. Believe it or not, “Menudo” has hardcore fans. Don’t ask me to explain it. But as a “free speech” advocate, I think people have the right to feel the way they do about things. Some people love Waddell. Some wish he’d get hit by a bus. Which is a little extreme. I’d encourage such people to seek out therapy for their anger management issues.
One of the biggest buzzwords on this blog over the past three to four years has been “accountability.” Today, a very good coach, with over 500 NHL victories to his credit, got canned because of this very word.
Tony C., I won’t blame San Jose for their decision. To whom much is given, much is expected. Wilson never moved his team past the Conference Finals in San Jose, despite an impressive roster. I often call him the “Marty Schottenheimer” of hockey. But I do it with an underlying hope that he’ll win and silence me. I posted, last offseason, that the longer the Sharks wait to fire him the worse it will be, in terms of “lost time.” Admittedly, those remarks were colored from a media spat between Wilson and Patrick Marleau, who subsequently “made nice” with each other. But the truth is … Ron Wilson is an excellent coach. He’s got a proven track record. But he just can’t seem to turn the corner in the playoffs. And right now, elevating the Thrashers to being a playoff team is probably not even on his radar. He’s already been there and done that in his career. He doesn’t need to prove he’s capable of taking a “mediocre” team to the next level. What he needs to prove … is that he’s capable of winning that elusive Stanley Cup. Wilson will be looking, in my opinion only, for a club that’s close. And the Thrashers aren’t close.
Detroit’s Head Coaching hasn’t been finalized for next season. If, for whatever reason, Mike Babcock leaves Detroit, Wilson would probably first look to them for his next job. Again, Wilson would look to the Red Wings because they are a team that is very close to winning the Cup. In fact, they may win it THIS YEAR. I would think if they do, Babcock would return. But stranger things have happened. Even in hockeytown. In 1994, Mike Keenan was under contract for 4 more years after the Rangers won the Cup, but he didn’t return for the next season.
By Canada Rules
May 13, 2008 12:14 AM | Link to this
My silly American Southern hockey fans, I was sent to correct a few misconceptions you folks have about certain teams and players in the NHL. Hossa is not a leader or a great player, you wouldnt have been that stupid to trade a Star, would you?/ Hmmm, works both ways, eh. Second, Wilson CAN coach, Thornton and Marleau are playoff ghosts and losers. If your captains are soft, as is NASCAR Dave, so is your loser team. YOUGAYS KNOW ALL ABOUT SOFT HERE, Civil War, eh.
By Tony C.
May 13, 2008 9:02 AM | Link to this
Unfortunately douchebag is right.
My main thing about posting that quote is that the SJ ownership has been able to create a winning environment on a budget not significantly larger than what DW has been assigned by ASG in years past.
Clearly, between Waddell and D. Wilson there seems to be a WIDE gulf in results (I assume in ability as well).
No I don’t think Ron will be on his way here, but I’d hoped that after not getting Stamkos, the Hockey Gods might reward us with Doug. I dunno some sort of short-term psychosis-that lifted only after he’d signed. like I said, hoped.
By robo
May 13, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this
whoever the joker is that signs on to coach this team, the focus needs to be on defense, defense, defense-get some guys in here who are not afraid to hit and block shots. I guarantee if we can outshoot the other team consistently, we have a good chance of winning more games, but the pathetic efforts last year of our defensive crew wont cut it. you dont have to have the best offense cause Pittsburgh and Detroit will make the finals due to their defense and goaltending.
By TRON
May 13, 2008 10:12 AM | Link to this
TRADE THE PRE-TEEN LETEMIN AND SLATER TO LA KINGS FOR #2 PICK……….. TRADE UP FOR #1, OR KEEP PICKS 2&3 AND GET D-MEN……….. WITH PIT PICK GRAB THE STAAL KID…………
By Lanny McDonald
May 13, 2008 10:23 AM | Link to this
You know it’s been said that Trolls are usually found under bridges.
In this case, however, I believe Dave is right. This troll probably lives in mommy’s basement in Alpharetta. Lots of French Canucks in that area.
By Buzilla Baby Blues
May 13, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this
Sorry I haven’t posted in awhile. I have been reading but not posting. Way too much BS on these blogs nowadays.
I think Canadians hate the US because even on a bad day our Salvation Army could take the country over in a matter of hours. The inferiority complex of our northern neighbors is laughable. When all you can hang your hat on in life is maple syrup, crappy Molsen beer, and Michael J Fox you know that things aren’t going right.
At least they have hockey. The only reason ever to even think about Canada. Everything else sucks and is meaningless…oh, but I do like there national anthem. (And there are no “nights” in the words)
By ranallo10
May 13, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this
I’m making an assumption here, but is David Toews the younger brother of Jonathan (Chicago)?
I’d say take little Toews with the late first round pick, then Staal with the pick 4 spots later (yes, I’m assuming Pittsburgh loses to Detroit in the finals). And obviously the two picks can be flip-flopped to better maximize your chance of getting both players with those picks.
I’d say going with lineage is no worse of a strategy than what the current scouts use…
By ranallo10
May 13, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this
Ahhhh…life isn’t the same without the Buzilla perspective.
Welcome back bud.
By Alan
May 13, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this
ranallo - St. Louis has our second round pick this year.
By NASCAR Dave
May 13, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this
Take us over, LMAO, You couldnt even fight four planes during Sept 11, AND guess who took your sorry a* planes and citizens in, sheltered them, gave them everything. THATS why you are the most hated nation in the WORLD. You forget too fast. Viva Le Francias, Vive Le Quebec Livre. Vive Iran . Vive Montreal. Vive Nascar Dave,s Gay Membership. Vive Buzilla and his Queer father and disfigured mother.
By ranallo10
May 13, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this
Remnants of the Tkachuk trade?? Dammit, I thought we were clear of that fuster cluck.
By Buzilla Baby Blues
May 13, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this
man he is sad
By Boulton's Bruisers
May 13, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this
I think the best part of the Hab Troll dripped down his daddy’s leg!
By Waddell
May 13, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this
Fellas, sorry to disappoint you, but you asked for a playoff team last year, so I sold our souls..grits and all as well as the future to get veteran players like Tkachuk, thats what you asked for, dont cey about it now. No prospects, boy, that Colbrun sure looks good in Philly. By the way, how,s my friend Mike Vick doing, (Tee Hee), and how ,bout them Hawks, we almost had a winner. Well, goot run, a REAL team has made me an offer, HeeeeeeHaaaaaaaaaaaw.
By ranallo10
May 13, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this
Alan — You’re right, I forgot about the second rounder from 2008. Damn, that hurts even more today than it did back then…which is definitely a sign of a bad trade.
So, I’d probably take the more highly touted player of the two, and that’s likely Toews. Staal might be too much of a reach for a late first rounder, especially considering that from what I’ve read he’s been less productive than his elder brothers in the minors, and is less impressive to scouts (again, comparative to his brothers, not compared to other late first/early second round projections).
By Alan
May 13, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this
I’m going to drift off-topic here…
You know, that Hab troll had a point early on in his post pretending to be Dave. I know plenty of Canadians who took in a lot of people from the US who were on planes that were diverted and grounded at Canadian airports. The kindness of those Canadians will never be forgotten, even though I never personally had to deal with that sort of thing.
Politics aside, one doesn’t have to look far to see anti-American sentiment throughout the world, but primarily in Europe. A Norsk rap group called Gatas Parlament even wrote a song called “Antiamerikansk Dans” (Anti-American Dance). The news of this was covered in most major foreign media outlets. CNN? Nope. Not one word of it here.
Now to drag this thing back on-topic …
What this person claiming to be from Habs Inside/Out is doing to us on this forum, however, isn’t right. Masquerading as other users just so he can pretend to insinuate that we are homosexuals looking to score with each other in a so-called “Peach Tree Street bath house” is reprehensible. And you know something? The way the AJC comments section is set up fosters this sort of behavior. It’s generally unmoderated as we can see here, users are not required to register a name to comment with - a name we can call our own. I’ve seen several people post as “Alan” on here, that haven’t been me. Sure, my name is common, I suppose. My bad for that. But if we had a “login name” for the comments section, this wouldn’t be as big of an issue. Whoever is trolling us would have to create his or her own “comments section” account, and then accuse us of being homosexuals instead of masquerading as us and insinuating homosexual behavior. This is just illustrating an abuse of the system, and I hope the powers that be here both address that abuse and fix it.
Throwing insults back and forth isn’t helping us as a community of hockey fans. And that - regardless of what team you support and root for - is really what brings us together here on this blog. We are hockey fans. Whether we are white or black, Democrat or Republican (or Libertarian), American or Canadian (or even Mexican - yes, I know quite a few hockey fans from south of the border)… the one thing that brings us together is 60 minutes of riveting play on a nice sheet of ice. And that is how it should be.
By Brians Random
May 13, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this
Gents, we are having a GMHL gAY MENS Hockey tournament next month, and are looking for PLAYERS to check us out. Will take place at Spring Road facility,and benefit the AIDS Founadtion here in greater Atlanta. Our site, Brians Random.com will sponsor the event, all interested, please leave your mail address and name here, and we will RSVP.
By Lanny McDonald
May 13, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this
Alan, Now I think you see the dangers of “feeding the trolls” that I tried to warn you about. You know what I mean?
By Buzilla Baby Blues
May 13, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this
Hossa comes back after his cup?
By Alan
May 13, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this
Lanny - The above troll couldn’t possibly have seen my previous post before he hit submit. It takes the site a few minutes to even process a post, and then another two to five minutes to actually apply it to the page. After all, right below this very text box is a statement stating the delay is present and you will experience one.
Even if the troll disregards my post, I hope I’ve at least touched some of the people here.
There’s a difference between poking at someone like Dave and someone like the alleged Habs Inside/Out user. Poking Dave is fun sometimes, and in the end, we always come out with a better understanding of each other. Poking the Habs Inside/Out guy, on the other hand, is fruitless. Like punching a tarbaby.
If that’s what you meant by your post, then I think we can agree on that. If you were slyly insinuating that I am, have, and/or continue to engage in “feeding the trolls” then you, my friend, remain mistaken.
By Adriano
May 13, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this
Alan, whoever is the person posting as a Canadiens fan, is also coming to our site, Habs inside/out and doing the same thing here. First, we have thousands of fans from around the WORLD here, we dont need any Atlanta “Hits”, secondly, seems your person is familiar with your city, doubt its one of us. Please look within for your trouble maker. As for Sept 11th, a tragedy of insensible proportions, we were glad to help.
By Lanny
May 13, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this
Alan is a traitor, and should be banned as an American.
By Donald
May 13, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this
Just a thought, but before the Hab troll paid us a visit, werent we bashing the Thrashers management, and asking someone to explain the moves we have made recently? The wham, this nut appears. Anyone else suspicious or is it just me? How does this person kow so much about our city and teams? Why would a fan from THERE chose us to annoy, Atlanta, what threat are we? Just wondering.
By Lanny McDonald
May 13, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this
Alan, No I wasn’t saying YOU did it. Just talking about our conversation a few weeks back. If you feed the trolls, it gives them energy to continue on.
If you notice this particular troll’s patterns, he waits for a response from someone and then attacks them (or poses as them). If you ignore them completely, they tend to get bored and will go away. However, this one doesn’t care about that, hence his ability to create conversations with himself, as other bloggers.
Mommy must be real proud of her “gem”.
By ranallo10
May 13, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this
Donald — That’s one helluva stretch. Was Puck-n-Snot a plant too??
All he/she had to do was Wikipedia Atlanta and watch SportsCentre, they can learn plenty about Atlanta franchises and newsworthy topics to mention.
For instance, Google “Montreal Canadians Suck” and see what you find (the first hit has a non-work friendly photo, so you might not want to visit it right now).
A lot can be “learned” with a few clicks of the mouse/keyboard.
By Lanny McDonald
May 13, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this
Donald This troll, and the others like him, are upset at us because they did not get Hossa.
I have visited some of their boards, and some of them are blaming Don Waddell for this. They actually think Waddell is the reason they BLEW IT in the playoffs.
It’s actually quite amusing!
By Donald
May 13, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this
LMAO, h AH AH AHA
By Donald
May 13, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this
tHE aTLANTA tHRASHERS ARE AMONG THE THREE WORST ORGANIZATIONS IN SPORTS ACCORDING TO espn.COM. tHEIR SEASON TICKET HOLDERS ARE DWINDLING, AS ARE THEIR PROSPECTS DUE TO UNIMAGINABLE TRADES. tHEY ARE AMONG THE WORST AT DRAFTING AND DEVEOPING THEIR OWN PLAYERS. tHE FUTURE FOR THIS ORGANIZATION LOOKS BLEAK. aNY qUESTIONS, BIG MOUTHS.
By Donald S
May 13, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this
Just a quick comment about Hossa, Montreal is building from within, currently ranked by Hockeys Futures site as #2 for prospects, Atlanta is 28th. Second, we didnt want to give up Higgins, as we plan on making an offer to Lecavallier after NEXT season, we were,nt that interested as he becomes an UFA this summer, we can get him without giving up ANY players, like you DIDNT do last year, sorry cuttie.
By Donald Gavs
May 13, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this
How does Ranallo10 know all theses ways to create and gather information, hmmm. As they say, a thief trusts noone.
By Alan
May 13, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this
Lanny - That’s cool then. I can never tell. The internet has a funny way of allowing us to communicate, but still not allow us to convey what we mean or how communication was intended, so it’s all left up to interpretation. I didn’t want to misinterpret your remarks, is all.
I have to wonder the intent of this troll, honestly. Whether this person really is from Habs Inside/Out or not.
Does this person somehow want a rivalry to develop between Atlanta and Montreal? (Fun fact: The first international flight out of what was then known as Atlanta Municipal Airport was a flight to Montreal, QC) Personally, I’m not sure we would make good rivals. It’s hard to think of Montreal as a rival, at least for right now.
You’re right about this troll and the pattern, though, as I’ve noticed it too. It’s why I don’t directly comment to the troll. It has tried to draw me in by using my name, but I have resisted. I’m quite comfortable with who I am, and whether I am gay or not has no relevance to the core of what this blog is about. It seems to rattle the cages of some folks though, and that’s unfortunate.
Ignoring this troll won’t make it go away, but ignoring the troll will definitely take the wind out of its sails. The sort of comments it makes aren’t appropriate, but the responses to it only spawn more immaturity.
I wouldn’t call Mommy’s little troll a “gem,” though. More like a briquette of charcoal, for no matter how hard you try to shine it, you only end up getting yourself dirty.
By Daniel Briere
May 13, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this
What? What’s that, Hab Troll? I can’t hear you. It’s too loud in here because we are celebrating your elimination.
By Tony C.
May 13, 2008 5:42 PM | Link to this
‘zilla
Hossa ain’t coming back. Ask anyone remotely close to the organization and they start laughing. hard.
That bridge is burnt.
By Donald
May 13, 2008 5:56 PM | Link to this
Please refer to ESPN hockey assessment of the Atlanta Thrashers.. are the worst organization for drafting and developing their own players. With a dwindling season ticket holder status, there may be a time soon when a move is imminent. As for laughing at teams eliminated from the playoffs, 24 CHampionships, and a renewed building program led by Bob Gainey has the Canadiens on the right track. Eliminated from something you didnt MAKE, AmeriKKKant.
By Donald
May 13, 2008 6:04 PM | Link to this
Daniel Brazeere, went to Peachtree to see your Moms, do da do da, told me to take a left at the Waffle House, Oh, do da day. Tooke het to the Georgia 400, turned off at the construction, had my way with her, and called me “Honey”, then asked for all my Money.Your Mammy,s like an elephante, except 50 pounds less and wears a black cape. Boo.
By Danald
May 13, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this
According to many historians, during the Civil WAR, the one you fought with each other to fre the people YOUenslaved, there was a preponderance for Homosexualactivity amongst the Confederate soldiers,many believeRobert Lee was a regular in many privates tents on a cold winters night.The moral because of this was one of the least talked about reasons the South lost the War. Watch your backs , them thar boys mayt be lookin at more thans ya thinks.