AJC > Sports > Thrashers > Blog > Archives > 2008 > July > 01 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USFree agent update (2:30 p.m.)
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
No Thrashers signings to report yet.
The Thrashers made qualified offers not just to Kari Lehtonen but also to Joey Crabb, Nathan Oystrick and Brett Sterling, the NHL announced.
Here is the official list of Thrashers unrestricted free agents: Milan Bartovic, Eric Boulton, Kevin Doell, Darren Haydar, Bobby Holik, Jason Krog, Joel Kwiatkowski, Steve McCarthy, Karel Pilar, Mark Recchi, Steve Rucchin, Mark Popovic, Jesse Schultz, Guillaume Desbiens*.
*Desbiens would have been a restricted free agent if the Thrashers had made a qualified offer.
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Comments
By THRASHYOU
July 1, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this
ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ…..ZZZZZZZZZZZZZ….. SOMETHING NEEDS TO BE DONE SOON! NO MOVES BY ATL.
By Bob
July 1, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this
I feel like Carroll O’Connor in Kelly’s Heroes when he tunes in Clint and the boys crossing the river.
Let’s get in the game, we’re sitting here on our asses and the games on out there, let’s go, boys!
By Russ
July 1, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the update Mike. Any news on who the Thrashers are talking to? Is anything close?
By Brendan
July 1, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this
Perhaps Waddell is busy “counter-offering?” I haven’t heard Hossa ruminations yet. The Hossa watch is still on, FULL FORCE!
By Tom
July 1, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this
By THRASHYOU
July 1, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this
Kolzig to T.B.
By ranallo10
July 1, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this
Thrashyou — I’m not sure where you’re seeing that, but TSN says Theodore to Washington.
By Tom
July 1, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this
Washington signs UFA G Jose Theodore to a 2 year deal (undisclosed) ugh…
By Brendan
July 1, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this
The Capitals now have Cristobal Huet, Olaf Kolzig, and Jose Theodore??
By Denny
July 1, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this
No - Huet did not like the Caps offer, so now he is an UFA - much to the dismay of my Fantasy team!
By Mojo
July 1, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this
Good to see them give a qualifying offer to Nathan Oystrick. Clearly he has proven himself at the AHL level with his play and leadership. I think he’d be a great call-up or regular on the Thrashers roster next season. I’m sure he’s hungry.
By Bob
July 1, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this
I also liked what I saw out of Oystrick in the Calder Cup Finals. Good move keeping him.
By T-Bone
July 1, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this
Wow, just saw where the Canucks offered Sundin 2-yr deal at $10mm per. Also heard Oilers offering Hossa $9mm per deal, not sure of the length. Nothing signed as yet, but that’s some serious coin!
By UpperDeck4Life
July 1, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this
Mojo from what I heard, a lot of people are surprised that Oystrick was qualified. He took a step back this past season and was getting 3rd pairing minutes down the stretch and in the playoffs for the wolves. Kulda, on his armature tryout contract was getting more minutes than Oystick was. Just what I heard, thought I would pass it along.
By T-Bone
July 1, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this
Huet signs with the Hawks, clearing some of the logjam in net for the Caps.
By Hockeybiltong
July 1, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this
Where is next great D-Man coming from?????
By Nikita
July 1, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this
Why are Kwiatkowski and Rucchin listed? Kiwi’s going to Russia, and Rucchin will never play again.
By Midfield
July 1, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this
I don’t see Hossa coming back here. ‘The bridges are burnt…’ or, perhaps, ‘the well is poisoned’ is a better headline.
By AHL
July 1, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this
Hello, Is Don W up for the day yet?
By Ron
July 1, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this
Tampa Bay signs UFA goaltender Olaf Kolzig to a 1 year deal worth $1.5-million (plus bonuses).
By T-Bone
July 1, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this
Meanwhile, busy as beavers down in Tampa Bay. Just signed Olie the Goalie: 1-yr, $1.5mm.
By Brett
July 1, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this
rumor on the minnesota wild reporters blog that a nhl player told him that the atlanta thrashers offer brian campbell 8 year $60 million contract, just a rumor but thought id throw that out their. a lot of players are getting signed, however none of them are guys i would think that the thrashers would have interest in so calm down everyone. also desbiens wanted out. he got no ice time in chicago.
By Brett
July 1, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this
rumor on the minnesota wild reporters blog that a nhl player told him that the atlanta thrashers offer brian campbell 8 year $60 million contract, just a rumor but thought id throw that out their. a lot of players are getting signed, however none of them are guys i would think that the thrashers would have interest in so calm down everyone. also desbiens wanted out. he got no ice time in chicago.
By Brett
July 1, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this
rumor on the minnesota wild reporters blog that a nhl player told him that the atlanta thrashers offer brian campbell 8 year $60 million contract, just a rumor but thought id throw that out their. a lot of players are getting signed, however none of them are guys i would think that the thrashers would have interest in so calm down everyone. also desbiens wanted out. he got no ice time in chicago.
By funcused
July 1, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this
well … every team in our division has done something with Tampa and Carolina making the biggest news. Caps have upgraded in goal, sorta. Florida is MIA . but who cares about them .. . come on Don . . lets get movin!
By atlthrash
July 1, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this
rumor on the minnesota wild reporters blog that a nhl player told him that the atlanta thrashers offer brian campbell 8 year $60 million contract, just a rumor but thought id throw that out their. a lot of players are getting signed, however none of them are guys i would think that the thrashers would have interest in so calm down everyone. i think desbiens wanted out. he got no ice time in chicago.
By AHL
July 1, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this
What ? calm down? Don W is full of himself. And is going to bury this team 6ft in the ground !!!
By Tony C.
July 1, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this
Ok so Campbell, Gainsey, Morrison, Redden, Hagman & Ryder re still available…I’d like for us to have two of those guys signed in the next few hours
By Yachtdawg
July 1, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this
oooh. I can’t wait to see what 3rd line player DW signs and tries to pass off as a viable 1st line player. ASG management of this team is a joke. Hopefully Kovy escapes this hellhole and gets on a team where he can actually play with a real live center!
By Tony C.
July 1, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this
Also, looks like they’re busy over in Raleigh
By Mike Hunt
July 1, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this
Don Waddell in typical fashion waits for the good players to go then he grabs any old big name available, thinking he will appease the Atlanta fan base. While Tampa loads up, we wait till the end for a few scraps. Don’t expect the Thrashers to spend anywhere above last season as they try to ride through another disapointing season so the Atlanta Spirit Owners can save a few pennies!
By Mike Hunt
July 1, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this
Don’s too busy shopping for mock turtlenecks in the summer instead of quality players.
By kracker
July 1, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this
Could signing in Russia be a fall back position for Kwiatkowski? It could also help in negotiating w/ Thrashers or another NHL team.
By Sara
July 1, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this
Holy cow some of you people are being ridiculous!! Almost ALL of the big names on the market this year are still not signed. Frankly, most of the signings have been the “3rd tier” players which should indicate Don’s still working on the big fish.
Tony C. don’t forget to add Orpik to that list - he’s still in play as well.
By Ron
July 1, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this
NO WAY, Brian Campbell 8 year $60 million. That’s crazy. He’s 29 years old.
By kracker
July 1, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this
Mwybe Waddell’s watch says it’s June 31st.
By Mike Hunt
July 1, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this
Doesn’t matter who Atlanta qualifies from the minors. They will eventually be packaged in a trade for some aging veteran (Coburn for Zhitnik)and another prospect will play for somebody else. What a joke.
By icedog
July 1, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this
With few exceptions our top targets (defense, center > Campbell, Ralston) are still out there. Letting others blow their wad first is not necessarily a bad thing.
By Geneen
July 1, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this
Don’s too busy shopping for mock turtlenecks in the summer instead of quality players. Best comment ever.
Go Thrashers! If you can’t be the best, be the best at being the worst! Yay!
By Michael Shapiro
July 1, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this
Whew, 16 of 30 teams [Anaheim, Boston, Chicago, Colorado (2), Detroit, Florida, Minnesota, Montreal, NY Rangers, Ottawa, Phoenix (2), Pittsburgh (2), Tampa Bay (3), Toronto (2), Vancouver (2), Washington] have already made deals and it’s barely 5:10. As for D-Wad, he’s friggin’ sleeping in the corner. What’s it gonna take for us to find a top tier D-man and a center for Kovy? JA says he’s on the sidelines while D-Wad makes the calls. D-Wad, are you there? Friggin’ get off the pot and DO SOMETHING! JEEEZ-US-H PLEEEZE WAKE UP. You are SO LAME.
By Hockey town
July 1, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this
What a hockey base we have here in Atlanta. What a lame attempt at hockey coverage. Do the rest of the league a favor and keep mailing it in Atlanta. Worst group of fans in sports today. Lame
By kracker
July 1, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this
You can kill time by reading nhl.com’s Southeast Review. It’s on panel #4 of the rolling picture stories on the home page.
By Mike Hunt
July 1, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this
Big Fish? Atlanta? How are we going to sign a “big fish” when all we do is let our own walk out the door!
By jen
July 1, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this
FWIW, ANdy Strickland says CHI matched our offer of 8.5…WHY ON EARTH ARE WE TRYING TO PAY CAMPBELL AS MUCH AS SIDNEY CROSBY ???
By ranallo10
July 1, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this
kracker — No, it can’t be a fall back. If he has a signed contract with an international league he’s not allowed to sign with an NHL team. Per the IIHF newest contract stalemate, the IIHF and NHL have a working agreement to not “poach” talent currently under contract. Russia, though they haven’t been part of the IIHF’s transfer agreement for the last four years, also have that standing agreement.
So, any player signed by Russia cannot go to the NHL, and any player signed by the NHL cannot bolt for Russia.
Knobler — Do you know if Nikulin is still under contract in Russia? If so, he cannot come to Atlanta unless there is a clause in that contract for an NHL callup. Since Russia doesn’t like losing young talent I doubt Nikulin has such a clause, but who knows? Is there any way for you to get clarification on Nikulin’s situation??
By jen
July 1, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this
FWIW, ANdy Strickland says CHI matched our offer of 8.5…WHY ON EARTH ARE WE TRYING TO PAY CAMPBELL AS MUCH AS SIDNEY CROSBY ??? Look, I like the guy, he’s a great puck moving dman, but come on…he’s not a franchise cornerstone.
By jen
July 1, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this
FWIW, ANdy Strickland says CHI matched our offer of 8.5…WHY ON EARTH ARE WE TRYING TO PAY CAMPBELL AS MUCH AS SIDNEY CROSBY ??? Look, I like the guy, he’s a great puck moving dman, but come on…he’s not a franchise cornerstone.
By Alan
July 1, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this
Sara - That’s why I stopped posting in Rawhide’s blog, and probably why I won’t post here until free agency is done with. The amount of ignorance by most of the posters here and there is petrifying, agonizing, and frustrating.
By kracker
July 1, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this
Campbell offer matched by Hawks according to Andy Strickland: “Atlanta’s Offer of 8.5 per yr for Campbell is being matched by Chicago”
By AHL
July 1, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this
Sara, You are correct! But 10 years, 1 playoff round, and no wins EVER in playoffs.
You have to agree the problem is DW and no one else. He is the cancer of the team.
By Tony C.
July 1, 2008 5:21 PM | Link to this
Hainsey, Rosival & Campbel are still out there… So are Morrisn, Hagman & Ryder…
By kracker
July 1, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this
ranallo Nikulin appears to have the NHL out clause
By Waffleboy
July 1, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this
$70 mil for Brian Campbell? I hope Waddell doesn’t do it. Get Roszival and Orpik instead for less money. I’m more concerned about a trade for a #1 center. There are no UFA’s worth signing.
By funcused
July 1, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this
I was wrong about Florida . . forgot about Jokinen trade with Phoneix … so that makes Atlanta the only team with no movement… tick tock tick tock tick tock
By Jane
July 1, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this
Don Honey, No more loving until you sign a free agent not over 35 and that can play! And no more mocks..they are not sexy!
By Sara
July 1, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this
ranallo there was an interview with Nikulin posted over on the Nasty Nest last week in which he specifically said his Russian contract has an out-clause to come to the NHL. He also said the Thrashers have pitched him an offer. He’s apparently going on vacation for a couple of weeks and will sort it out and make a decision when he comes back. But he indicated he wants to come to the NHL so this might finally be the year.
AHL I do not concede any such thing nor have I ever. While Don has certainly had some moments, he has often been handicapped by cheap as crap owners - that has been the same since day one as well. This is the first FA season I can recall where it was pretty much known Don has been given the green light to spend money.
By brian gura
July 1, 2008 5:38 PM | Link to this
no, dons doing the typical penny pinching move, hes gonna wait out all these expensive players while they sign for teams that are willing to spend big bucks (thanks alot ASG, you simpathy for thrashers fans is about as deep as your wallet) then he will see who is left and try to save money by signing them late. its to bad saving money in hockey only earns you two things, 1 overall draft picks :-(, and being the punching bad of the nhl again
By silverpork
July 1, 2008 5:40 PM | Link to this
If you believe anything written on Hockeybuzz, Campbell just went to the Hawks. If the reports of 8.5 per are true, I can’t say I’m too broken up over it.
By brian gura
July 1, 2008 5:41 PM | Link to this
don and ASG doing the typical penny pinching move, there gonna wait out all these expensive players while they sign for teams that are willing to spend big bucks (thanks alot ASG, you simpathy for thrashers fans is about as deep as your wallet) then he will see who is left and try to save money by signing them late. its to bad saving money in hockey only earns you two things, 1 overall draft picks :-(, and being the punching bad of the nhl again
By kracker
July 1, 2008 5:41 PM | Link to this
TSN: Unconfirmed: Campbell to Blackhawks. $60M+
By brian gura
July 1, 2008 5:42 PM | Link to this
campbells out he just agreed to sign for hawks, worth 7.1 mil
By Wintirwolf
July 1, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this
Looks like Campbell is Chicago bound!
By UpperDeck4Life
July 1, 2008 5:46 PM | Link to this
Campbell and his 60+ million go to the Blackhawks. I am actually relieved. I think that would have been a major waste of money and overpayment. Hainsey, Smith, and Redden are still available.
By MB
July 1, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this
According to TSN, looks like Campbell’s headed to Chicago.
By Michael Shapiro
July 1, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this
TSN just reported that Chicago signs UFA defenceman Brian Campbell to an 8 year deal worth $56.8-million
…and still we wait for D-Wad to wake up and do SOMEthing.
By Mike Hunt
July 1, 2008 5:50 PM | Link to this
There goes Campbell…Uwe Krup is still available Don..
By brian gura
July 1, 2008 5:51 PM | Link to this
yep its real, just was on NHL Home Ice
By Tony C.
July 1, 2008 5:52 PM | Link to this
Wel looks like we can stop worrying about overpaying Campbell
By B. Thenet
July 1, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this
Plan B, here we come.
By Mark
July 1, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this
Campbell gone!
Does anyone really think a top flight UFA is going to want to sign with Atlanta? I don’t.
By Denny
July 1, 2008 5:55 PM | Link to this
TSN = Campbell to Hawks for $7.5 Million means he passed on Thrashers for about $3.5 Million Windy City Discount.
CONGRADS to the Hawks for building a WINNER.
Its NOT EASY once you get that LOSER Tag.
By Darren
July 1, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this
I would much rather see Kevin Cheveldayoff be the GM of Atlanta than Waddell, but with that said, just because Waddell hasn’t signed anybody doesn’t mean he isn’t trying.
By brian gura
July 1, 2008 5:59 PM | Link to this
mark is right, no one wants to play in atlanta, the best part for the players that do is looking forward to the day they leave for a team that wants to win
By ThrashersFan
July 1, 2008 6:00 PM | Link to this
It’s really hard to keep supporting this team…
By English Teacher
July 1, 2008 6:02 PM | Link to this
I just heard that Waddell called asking for my father. My dad never played hockey, but Waddell had a hunch he’d help bolster the Thrasher’s defense. My mother told Don that my dad died three years ago, so Waddell said he’d wait for him to call back.
By Tony C.
July 1, 2008 6:02 PM | Link to this
I still think we’d do well to get Hainsey Morrison & Ryder or Hagma
Unless he’s cool with $6.75M/per I want nothing to do with Redden.
By Bob
July 1, 2008 6:08 PM | Link to this
If the rumor is true that Waddell offered him 8 years at $60m, then Campbell just thumbed his nose at him and took less to play for the Hawks.
And I really don’t blame him, if I was a player, I wouldn’t sign to play for Waddell for just 5% more money over 8 years. I’d want to win, and that ain’t happening here under Waddell, everyone knows it. Hossa, now Campbell, what’s it going to take for the Spirit to see the real problem here.
By Mark
July 1, 2008 6:09 PM | Link to this
The only way this team is going to acquire top flight talent not already on the roster or through the draft is through trade. Hossa showed everyone that was paying attention all that you needed to know. If you have a choice and you want to win, you’re not going to sign with Atlanta. The Thrashers are going to be stuck with the Todd White’s of the NHL or for overpaying for 2nd tier free agents.
Watch, we will way overpay for a Rosival type and Waddell will try to sell us on what a great deal it is for the Thrashers. Just like last summer with Todd White.
By brian gura
July 1, 2008 6:11 PM | Link to this
D man commodore goes to blue jackets for 5 year 18.75 million
By Michael Shapiro
July 1, 2008 6:11 PM | Link to this
27 deals in six plus hours and NONE of them the Thrashers. What gives? Are we asleep at the switch? We’ve been promised that we’d aggressively pursue free agents and that we had the money to spend. At this rate, we can just bring up guys from the Gladiators and save the cash. Maybe the ASG will give us some money back on our season tix? This sucks.
By 10yr plan
July 1, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this
Not true. A majority of players love playing in Atlanta. Unfortunately, they are the visiting team. Players bring their golf clubs, stay an extra day, go out for a nice dinner and have an opponent that will roll over for the most part.
By brian gura
July 1, 2008 6:18 PM | Link to this
i just realized that this caption on the article is thrashers shop for top d man… well… we are waiting
By Tony C.
July 1, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this
Nichael-successful or not, you’ve got to admit that $60M/8years is aggresive
By brian gura
July 1, 2008 6:22 PM | Link to this
dude, season tickets are the last thing on my mind right now
By kracker
July 1, 2008 6:22 PM | Link to this
We sure do have a lot of loser visitors here today to talk trash about the team.
By kracker
July 1, 2008 6:24 PM | Link to this
8 years was too long to sign Campbell. He could be Ken Klee by year 5 or 6 - experienced but with declining performance. And that’s assuming he is a 60 point guy and a + player the first 4 or 5 years. If Campbell demanded that many years, I’m glad he got it elsewhere.
By Toby
July 1, 2008 6:25 PM | Link to this
DW must be wetting himself…Doesn’t he need to spend $14 mil just to hit the minimum?
By Tony C.
July 1, 2008 6:25 PM | Link to this
Want to make your stomach turn? Listen to the Campbell interview … I have to give Campbell full marks for not naming names and throwing us under the bus.
By Toby
July 1, 2008 6:26 PM | Link to this
DW must be wetting himself…Doesn’t he need to spend $14 mil just to hit the minimum?
By Toby
July 1, 2008 6:26 PM | Link to this
DW must be wetting himself…Doesn’t he need to spend $14 mil just to hit the minimum?
By Tony C.
July 1, 2008 6:29 PM | Link to this
Also, Rolston goes back to where it all began….tsn’s FA tracker says its official now.
By Bob
July 1, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this
Unless he’s cool with $6.75M/per I want nothing to do with Redden
It shouldn’t take that to sign Redden, I would guys $5.5m should get him on a 4 or 5 year deal.
8 years is not too much for Campbell, kracker. And $7.1m per year is a good # for him, Chicago is much better off and a contender in the East now, we are much worse off not winning his services. Spin it whatever way you want, but he’s only 29 yrs old, 8 years is not too much for him. Great move by Chicago.
By Terry
July 1, 2008 6:33 PM | Link to this
Something just doesn’t seem right here. A LOT of blame is being put on Don, but I think this has more to do with the Spirit and their on going legal issues. Aren’t both teams limited to signing long term deals? Secondly, this was the first year since Don has been here that he hasn’t made a trade on draft day. Maybe he is being held back. I also understand they have some big contracts to sign on Hawks end. Just a thought
By Terry
July 1, 2008 6:34 PM | Link to this
Something just doesn’t seem right here. A LOT of blame is being put on Don, but I think this has more to do with the Spirit and their on going legal issues. Aren’t both teams limited to signing long term deals? Secondly, this was the first year since Don has been here that he hasn’t made a trade on draft day. Maybe he is being held back. I also understand they have some big contracts to sign on Hawks end. Just a thought
By Tony C.
July 1, 2008 6:37 PM | Link to this
Flyers signed Metro according to tsn
By Rob Ray
July 1, 2008 6:37 PM | Link to this
Glad Campbell is gone, too much for him. Keeping up the hope we get Orpik and a few other solid players. Sundin getting offered 10 mill a year is RIDICULOUS. The Canucks are desperate. I’m curious to see how much Huet got? They have Khabubilin (bad spelling, I know!) for 6.5 million for one more year. He will be tough to trade for that amount. That’s a lot of money for two goalies, even if it’s for one year. I love this day, watching for updates, my boss doesn’t like it too much though!!! ahhahaha. Hoping DW has something up his sleeve, please, please, please!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Darren
July 1, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this
Huet’s making $5.6 million, which is more than the $5.2 million that Brodeur is making this year.
It’s stupid money. I wonder when “The Morning After” will kick in.
By brian gura
July 1, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this
rangers resigned defenceman Michael Rozsival.
By ThrasherNY
July 1, 2008 6:47 PM | Link to this
Rangers sign Rozsival
By Tony C.
July 1, 2008 6:51 PM | Link to this
Terry not to open the door for a recitation of DW’s gaffes, but you’ve got to admit if he’d have drafted and retained drafted talent better, it wouldn’t be such a big deal what his UFA shopping budget is.
That being said, I’m not upset that we lost out on Campbell, he’s a talent but I don’t think he’s as good as the market showed-there was only one other “Top-tier” D-man going UFA today…Anyway, it hurts that allegedly he turned down almost a MILLION DOLLARS MORE a year to go play in Chicago.
Now if it’s something where DW told Campbell’s people “take it or leave it, I’ve got sh!t to do.”
Then good. Go do that GM sh!t DW.
By Tom
July 1, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this
DW must be wetting himself…Doesn’t he need to spend $14 mil just to hit the minimum?
Yep, the good money will be spent and then Waddell will be picking up the trash.
By Tony C.
July 1, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this
Hagman to TorontoMapleLeafs 4yeras/$12M according to tsn.
Also, Rozsival stays with NYR. $5M/per.
I’m still waiting on Hainsey….
By Rob Ray
July 1, 2008 6:56 PM | Link to this
WOW, Huet 5.6 million!! GEEZ. That’s crazy. 1 subpar playoff round for 5.6 million a year. The Hawks are really overpaying!! Thanks for the info Darren.
By Sunny
July 1, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this
Holik returns to NJ
http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/signings_2008/
By AHL
July 1, 2008 7:02 PM | Link to this
kracker you mention losers, Well what about the TEAM.
Many want the team to Win but can you prove to me we are making the RIGHT moves. I think alot of people are showing they care but they are mad because in over TEN YEARS we HAVE NOT won ONE playoff GAME. WHO IS TO BLAME? DO YOU HAVE THE ANSWERS?
By Sunny
July 1, 2008 7:03 PM | Link to this
Holik back to NJ
http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/signings_2008/
By kracker
July 1, 2008 7:28 PM | Link to this
Well, Bob you may be right, time will tell. But if Campbell turns out to be one of those players where their career year is also their contract year, this may be one of the best deals we never made.
I wanted Campbell, sure, but for more of a salary dictated by his career to date: Say, $6M for 5 years and that is pushing it based on his career numbers. 114 points (26 goals) in 244 games the last 3 years. And more than half of those, 62 points, came in his contract year last season (8 goals). For this contract to be worth it for the Hawks, IMO, Campbell has to stay at 60+ points until he is 35 or so. He is in his prime right now so which way does his level of play go? Up, down or stay the same?
By T-Bone
July 1, 2008 7:39 PM | Link to this
Got home to a voice mail recording from John Anderson, begging me (us) to renew season tickets. Well, after today it’s all the more apparent this management won’t (can’t) get it done. Everyone here is complaining about how much this or that player got. Well, that’s the nature of the beast right now. I guess we can all sit thru a 30th place finish but remind ourselves how fiscally responsible our GM/owners are. Three cheers for being fiscally responsible! Hip, hip horray!
By MB
July 1, 2008 7:40 PM | Link to this
Glad to hear that FrankenBobby is going back to the Devils. A little surprised they’re paying him $2.5, but good for him. That’s a nice way for him to go into retirement.
By Mike Knobler
July 1, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this
Redden is gone, too.
By Waffleboy
July 1, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this
Rangers sign Redden
By Thrasher_Ed
July 1, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this
Ok, so let’s move to the trade market! Tampa can’t afford Dan Boyle, let’s trade for him. PP quarterback, good defensively! All that is really left is Streit, Hainsey, and Orpik.
By Waffleboy
July 1, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this
Bob-Chicago is much better off and a contender in the East now Chicago’s in the West, dude.
By David
July 1, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this
I’m sad nothing has been done today, BUT i’m not sad to miss out on campbell for that price. Again, I have to say..well done DW on that front at least. No reason throwing away money
By rimbaud
July 1, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this
Redden to Rangers. The list of d-men is getting much shorter. Do you think Mark Streit would like Atlanta? Nah, not a Swiss guy.
By John 43
July 1, 2008 7:56 PM | Link to this
I heard Waddell had a line on this guy who just made URFA his name is Zhitnik and he played for a sorry team last year that benched him and then started losing every game. Don thinks he can sign him to a 10 year 50 million dollar contract
By David
July 1, 2008 7:58 PM | Link to this
Orpik could actually be a great pick up
By j nes
July 1, 2008 8:01 PM | Link to this
I think it sucks we couldn’t land campbell, redden, or rozsival—but I do take some relief in knowing that DW got used by those players to drive up thier prices. I hope he feels as miserable as the rest of us do.
By Bob
July 1, 2008 8:06 PM | Link to this
I know Chicago’s in the West, I’m sitting here crying so hard my fingers slipped on the keyboard.
So now Redden is gone? Rolston is gone? goodness.
Get ready for Streit, fellas. Waddell is the only moron that’ll sign him to $5m per year, Steit is awful, just plain awful in his zone, should fit in great here!
By Bob
July 1, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this
*Again, I have to say..well done DW on that front at least. No reason throwing away money *
See, this is one of the reasons why Waddell still has a job, you have got to be kidding me with this nonsense?!?
First off, Waddell offered him more money than Chicago, Skippy. Second, Anderson’s offense needs puck moving dmen that can join the flow, Campbell fits that to a T and $7.1m is perfect value for him, Redden got $6.5m for goodness sakes, Campbell is a bargain at $7.1m
Watch, we’ll get stuck with Streit and Waddell will claim that’s the guy he targeted all along. Streit will make you guys pine for Yannick Tremblay when you see him try to play defense in his zone.
By Mistress Jane
July 1, 2008 8:20 PM | Link to this
You know if DW was the GM in Detroit, Montreal, etc..he would have been canned years ago. However, he has always been GM for southern expansion teams(San Diego, Orlando, Atlanta) and they are just so excited to have a new team and they hire this guy who’s selling point is the budget. Too bad that’s all the Spirit boys care about.He doesn’t know talent, can’t draft, can’t trade..etc..when is this guy gonna get exposed!
By MB
July 1, 2008 8:21 PM | Link to this
Well Bob, the good news is you don’t have to worry about Streit any more.
By Brian
July 1, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this
Stick a fork in the Thrashers, everyone else is getting better and well, we are not getting anything! I really was optimistic we would make some moves. Guess I was wrong. Waddell really wanted Campbell and went after him hard. I think he had no doubt he would sign in Atlanta
By rimbaud
July 1, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this
Streit signed with NYI (per TSN)-no mountains on Long Island either.
By Sharon
July 1, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this
Watch, we’ll get stuck with Streit and Waddell will claim that’s the guy he targeted all along.
No worries there, Streit just signed with NYI.
That dman list is getting smaller and smaller by the minute.
By Jane
July 1, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this
Streit to the Rangers…Uwe Krupp is still a bargain DW
By Michael Shapiro
July 1, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this
Twenty-two friggin’ teams make deals today (some even four deals like the Rangers), but we save our money and do NOTHING. This truly sucks the big one.
By B. Thenet
July 1, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this
This day is slowly turning into a Thrashers trainwreck.
What on earth are we going to do with this cap space?
By Wintirwolf
July 1, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this
So have many other teams stood pat with their current group of players? Does this mean that if we don’t meet the salary minimum that the NHL comes in and takes over? After todays lack of ANY impactive moves we really need something
By Hockeyfan
July 1, 2008 8:34 PM | Link to this
Streit to Islanders not Rangers
By LAC
July 1, 2008 8:35 PM | Link to this
No season tickets or tickets period until the team is sold to a person who is committed to winning.
No season tickets or tickets period under any condition until waddell is FIRED.
This day is another prime example as to why this franchise is going down the drain really fast.
If we finish above 30th next season it would be a unbelievable and as long as asg and waddell are calling the shots we are DOOMED to failure and no commitment to winning period.
By T-Bone
July 1, 2008 8:35 PM | Link to this
DW will have to throw money around like a drunken sailor on shore leave to the dregs that are left just to get us to the cap minimum. I hear the champagne being uncorked and backs being slapped for a job well done by DW in the Spirit offices tonight!
By joyaman
July 1, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this
Hmmmmm. Eight and one half hours have expired, and DW has squat to show for his efforts, while Redden, Campbell and even Streit are already gone. Good thing we have such deep pockets and such an adroit GM.
Tampa Bay upgrades at every postion, while nobody worth a crap wants to take a dip in the cesspool that Donny has dug out and filled in ATL. Don’t think that the assessment that Hoss and his agent made in February is lost on anyone in the league.
Wait ‘til the talent is gone, then load up your wagon with cheap retreads that define your “system.” Just don’t expect me to pay ASG another dime to see them play at Get-a-Clue-Land. -joyaman
By Bob
July 1, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this
Yea, we don’t get Streit!
So, only puck moving dman left is Hainsey? He’s played on the Blue Jackets the past couple years, nothing special, but at least he’d kind of fit into Anderson’s scheme.
Our top line would still be Enstrom-Havelid and Hainsey would be a #3 guy. Actually, whoever is left will not be a top guy for us, we are so screwed as we needed a true #1 guy. Ah well, Bogosian should be ready for that role in a few years.
Who’s the consensus #1 next year, is it Tavares? Time to talk about him yet?
Nice job, Donnie!
By zeke
July 1, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this
so as it currently stands the thrashers are below the minimum salary cap. Which means DW is forced to eventually sign a player or two and given his sterling personal record, at least we know that player(s) will be good…. oh wait, all the good players are already signed. Next year is going to be fun
By Wintirwolf
July 1, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this
Even the Stanley Cup Champions jumped in the water to shore up a need by signing Ty Conklin for tending goal for the Red Wings. So what excuse do the Thrashers have for the impotent showing today. UNLESS they are just transferring all the remaining Thrashers players from the Wolves up to the parent club and filling out the roster that way.
By T-Bone
July 1, 2008 8:46 PM | Link to this
Anybody wonder why they scheduled the select-a-seat event last Sunday and not say next Sunday? Those Spirit boys may be cheap but they’re not completely dumb.
By brian gura
July 1, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this
look at it this way… our goaltending is subpar with kari… who has continuly been listed in the scouting reports as needing to take the next step, hasnt done so and only shows breif brillance. we have no room for pavelec after signing moose. our defence is well, non existant, and our offense is powered by a single man, and when he doesnt score we lose, big suprise. but im still greatful to have the thrashers in atlanta, even if ASG drives them into the ground or waddell doesnt do his job. at the end of the day, theres still hockey in atlanta..
still theres not much to be excited about, but hockey by itself is still exciting
By Sharon
July 1, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this
Michael Shapiro - Atlanta is the only team that sat completely idle today (so far, at least).
Anaheim, Montreal and St. Louis didn’t sign any UFA’s yet either, but they did resign or make matching offers to their own players.
How sad for Thrashers fans.
By ranallo10
July 1, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this
Streit is now the top scorer from the 07/08 season on the Islanders roster, with 62 points. Comrie led the Islanders with 49 through the season.
At $4.1M annually and with no stay-at-home defenseman, I’m fine without Streit. But yeah, he’s no slouch defensively despite what God wants you to believe…the Islanders’ contract supports that point.
I guess the Islanders didn’t watch nearly as many Montreal games this past season as Bob did.
By MB
July 1, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this
Looks like I picked the wrong day to stop sniffing glue.
By KLS1
July 1, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this
Can’t we just give Hossa $10M a year…at least he made the games worth watching.
By Mike Knobler
July 1, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this
So, folks is it Orpik, Hainsey or bust?
By R. Stroz
July 1, 2008 9:15 PM | Link to this
Waddell Speak
Big Splash = Nothing
By jen
July 1, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this
Hainsey - he’s young…younger than everyone else, can score and put up Enstrom like numbers on a defense that was as bad as ours. He could work in the JA style.
Of note, I am SHOCKED Hossa is not signed somewhere already. I also think Glen Sather really needs to put down the crack pipe. The Rags are right back where they started before the lockout.
By me
July 1, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this
brian gura if you want hockey in atlanta go to gwinnett and watch the gladiators play. at least they dont end up at the bottom of their league.
By kracker
July 1, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this
A little more food for thought about Brian Campbell.
Campbell - NHL .389 pts/gm 160/411
Zhitnik - NHL .434 pts/gm 471/1085
Zhit has a slight edge in g/g: .088 to .085. And Zhitnik is only 6 1/2 years older than Campbell.
The more I look at it, the more I’m OK with “losing out” on Campbell for 8 years/$57M.
By B. Thenet
July 1, 2008 9:23 PM | Link to this
Bust
I don’t see Orpik coming here, too many quality suitors for his services.
The problem with Hainsey is that after playing all those years in Columbus, you would figure he might want to take a bit less for a team with a better chance of winning right away.
Unless DW has an Ilya Nikulin up his sleeve, I suspect we are going to have to make trades with teams in cap difficulty(and give up picks or prospects) in order to improve the team.
Of course DW could also go the Kevin Lowe route and poach some RFA’s, to be honest there aren’t that many of those that intrigue me much either..unless he gives up our #1 for 2009 which would be a dreadful mistake.
By me
July 1, 2008 9:23 PM | Link to this
hossa doesnt want to play in atlanta. he wants to be on a team that has a chance to win a cup and thats not atlanta. sorry
By KLS1
July 1, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this
…did I mention that Hossa was also our best defenseman.
Get Orpik and lets move on. I’m ready to get the season started in the hopes that Anderson can inspire this group.
By brian gura
July 1, 2008 9:25 PM | Link to this
its looking like a better and better idea by the hour me
By Jpuck
July 1, 2008 9:25 PM | Link to this
With the excitement of “Canada Day” today, maybe Wadell forgot it was Free Agent signing day. Sure am glad I threw for season tickets for next year.
By JLH
July 1, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this
ranallo, while Streit might have worked well in Anderson’s system, Dandenault was the only Hab with a worse +/- than Streit last year.
By Bob
July 1, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this
So, folks is it Orpik, Hainsey or bust?
Orpik is a good dman and would be a good signing, but doesn’t exactly fill out need. Anderson’s scheme needs a puck moving dman and Hainsey fills that the best of the scraps that are left.
Waddell could still sign Hainsey, Morrison, and Ryder and get to the cap minimum. Fill in Straka for Morrison if you want and Demitra is still out there as well.
I really don’t think that Waddell sat on his hands all day. I think that the deal is that he worked his tail off trying to get Campbell, Redden, and on down the line, but the stark reality of it is they each blew him off, and can you blame them? This is why nothing meaningful will change here until meaningful changes are made and a real GM is brought in here to turn things around.
By Zeke
July 1, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this
I’m tempted to say bust, but come on, this DW the smartest man in Hockey. who else would have passed on phanuff to draft coburn and later trade coburn for Zhitty. who else would have been so sly as to let marc savard walk and replace him with Ruccin. who else would have realized it was foolish to pay tchachuk when we could get todd white. I’m sure he’ll pull this one out
By Sharon
July 1, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this
Maybe I should reword my comments (haha). Atlanta may have been in the mix, but could’t pull off any deals. Regardless, still no signings for us.
By Alan
July 1, 2008 9:33 PM | Link to this
MB - The only glue I have at work is hot glue. Not really all that huff-able. And after reading some of the grade-A garbage posted by obvious trolls, I think I’m about ready to start trying to see if it can be done.
Or maybe spray paint, just so long as I don’t end up like this guy.
By Bob
July 1, 2008 9:45 PM | Link to this
Knobler, are you working on a story for tomorrow with some juicy quotes from Waddell on what happened (of should I say, didn’t happen) today? This upcoming spin out of Teflon Don should be priceless!
By Stryker
July 1, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this
If I was Kovalchuk, I would demand a trade. This team will stink even worst then last year. Tampa Bay will destroy the division this year…
By Jameson
July 1, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this
T-bone- That was a great post… Finally something in Thrashers news to smile about.
By ranallo10
July 1, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this
Zeke — If Tkachuk was signed in Atlanta, Bogosian wouldn’t be here.
For the long term succes of this franchise, it’s better to have Bogosian under contract than it is to have Tkachuk.
JLH — You’re right regarding his +/-, but since Saku Koivu was a -4 I’m not really sure how to take that. He (Streit) scored 4 less points than Hossa. That’s got to say something. 3 less points than Gonchar, and 12 more than Whitney. His +/- was only two points worse than Whitney’s.
By joe
July 1, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this
AND WITH THE FIRST OVERALL PICK IN THE 2009 ENTRY DRAFT THE ATLANTA THRASHERS SELECT JOHN TAVARES
By jen
July 1, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this
Scratch off Ryder…Boston for 3 years/12 million per TSN
By Mike Knobler
July 1, 2008 10:11 PM | Link to this
Bob
I’m getting an interview with Don on Wednesday. I think you’ll have to interpret Tuesday’s events — or lack of events — for yourself, at least for now.
By Sara
July 1, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this
Forget Ryder Boston just signed him. Guess they gave up on Hossa and went to plan B.
I vote Orpik and we poach Bouwmeester and somebody’s RFA center. Screw being nice - this club has got to be DESPERATE!!!!!
Today sucked. :(
By R. Stroz
July 1, 2008 10:15 PM | Link to this
Lehtonen is praying for an offer sheet about right now.
By MB
July 1, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this
Careful with the hot glue, Alan. Goodness knows what that would do to you.
Thanks for the laugh with the pic…I needed it after today, and fear I might already look like that guy. Would love to know the story on that one.
By John 43
July 1, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this
AND WITH THE FIRST OVER ALL PICK IN THE 2009 DRAFT ATLANTA THRASHER GM DON WADDELL TAKE PATRICK STEFAN AGAIN
By John 43
July 1, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this
AND WITH THE FIRST OVER ALL PICK IN THE 2009 DRAFT ATLANTA THRASHER GM DON WADDELL TAKE PATRICK STEFAN AGAIN
By Jpuck
July 1, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this
Mike What’s how do you interpret today’s events?
By jen
July 1, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this
Whatever we do, we can NOT lose the first pick in the draft next year…looks like its going to be pretty valuable
By adios
July 1, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this
beginning of the end … we are witnessing the unstoppable but inevitable downward cycle when ownership is in over their heads financially and can’t afford to compete with the big boys … i was around to see the flames leave because of a recession … just a matter of time before the thrashers leave town too … just be grateful we have nhl hockey in town for a few more years …. i give the thrashers 3 years before leaving … kovy leaving will be the nail in the coffin … any other bets on how long this “franchise” can last?
By ThrasherNY
July 1, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this
At this point I think we can all but pencil in the departure of Kovalchuk at the end of his contract. What a truly sad day in Thrashers history.
By Brendan
July 1, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this
Sara, c’mon now. I’ll grant you that this wasn’t a banner day for Blueland, but surely you don’t want to give up John Tavares for some RFA “poaching?” Think about Ranallo’s post above, re: Tkachuk. Imagine if we’d re-signed KT? St. Louis would have had the #3 and #33 picks in the Draft this past June. (By the way, part of that trade included Center Glen Metropolit, who got signed by Philadelphia today.)
Okay … maybe with KT, the team doesn’t finish quite as bad as 28th. But listen to Ranallo’s LARGER POINT. Now apply it. Any RFA poaching Don might try will result in tremendous longterm damage to the club. It’s far better to finish 30th and get Tavares. Not only that, the low payroll and high-end draft picks will make the team very attractive for re-sale to owners who “might” care about hockey. When the sale happens, sometime between now and 2011, the team should be stocked skyhigh with Top 10 picks. The new ownership can install a big name GM, who will, in turn, hire a high-end Head Coach, and good scouts, and the team will finally, finally be out of the woods and on the road to a true 3-5 window of opportunity. Well, assuming there isn’t a lockout in 2011, when the CBA expires. In 2011, Waddell and Anderson’s contracts should be expiring. And hopefully, player retention will be a top priority of the next ownership group. That includes not “nickel and diming” Superstars, in whom the organization invested Top 10 draft picks. (Think Kovalchuk’s holdout in 2005, that caused him to miss all of training camp.)
By Sara
July 1, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this
Stroz Waddell is probably praying for an offer sheet too in order to get our salary up to the floor. They are going to have to overpay the heck out of somebody.
By adios
July 1, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this
those of you looking forward to the #1 pick … remember the nhl has a lottery and we all the know the thrash is just as good losing there too
By A Really Disgusted Fan
July 1, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this
Black Monday, July 1, 2008. It’s pretty apparent that hockey in this city is well on its way to dying unless some significant changes take place in team ownership and management, and that is not looking very likely. I came to Atlanta the year after the Flames left, hoped like hell for an NHL team, and this is what we have. This is beyond sad. A total rebuke of the team from every free agent possessing a minimum amount of talent. What’s coming next year will resemble a mediocre AHL team. Hire a competent GM now and then do the decent thing and trade Kovy to a team where he has a chance in this lifetime to win a cup or a league goal scoring title, and get the best picks and prospects we can. Don’t sign an RFA and give up that first round pick because it ought to be number one next year. Sad, very sad.
By Jpuck
July 1, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this
Mike it would be interesting if you could report on current season ticket sales and compare the number and the number that have chosen not to reup vs. previous years.
This team needs to be pressured and as the new guy on the hockey block, it is perfect timing.
By Zeke
July 1, 2008 10:42 PM | Link to this
ranollo 10
thats a fair point that i agree with, assuming of course that Bogosian is as good as advertized. however, after today (and this past season), my cynicism prevents me from admitting DW did something right.
By Russ
July 1, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this
No way the Thrashers win the Tavares lottery. The NHL wouldn’t allow it. They’d rig the ping pong balls before they’d let the next savior go to the armpit of the NHL.
By Alan
July 1, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this
MB - Ask, and ye shall receive.
And with the hot glue, if something …happens… maybe it would be like waxing my nose hairs? That has to be less painful than reading some of the things that have been posted today.
By John 43
July 1, 2008 10:51 PM | Link to this
I just think Atlanta deserves some thing other than sorry old Don Waddell brand Hockey If we don’t go they leave town if we do they keep Don how do we win.
By Sam
July 1, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this
What about our new head coach?? What must he be thinking and feeling?
By Jpuck
July 1, 2008 11:04 PM | Link to this
If Kovi is gone do we trade him now and get a bucket of players and picks?
By Bob
July 1, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this
I think you’ll have to interpret Tuesday’s events — or lack of events — for yourself, at least for now.
Well, I think it’s quite clear to us all what machinations are at work here. He’s obviously bringing Hoss back into the fold.
Hey, we can bring Recchi-ball back!
By LAC
July 1, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this
Hey Mike… Ask waddell what he thinks of the fans call for his FIRING.
I want to hear from the SOB who is destroying NHL Hockey in Atlanta tell us when he is resigning.
I REALLY want you to ask about the FANS call for him to GO.
That is a fair question to ask as we support YOUR blog.
By polskidawg
July 1, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this
This won’t happen, but there’s one way to salvage the summer, and possibly the season:
1) Sign Hainsey - for too much, but do it
2) Sign Orpik (or Kalinin as a cheaper option) - for too much, but do it
3) Trade Pavs and a #3 for Filppula and Howard
4) Sign Filppula for 6/3.5+mil
5) Sign Bertuzzi for 2/2.5mil
Or, Joe DiPenta could return!!
By Tom
July 1, 2008 11:33 PM | Link to this
It looks like the price for a 2nd line defenseman is 4 million a year and a top defender is 6-8 million.
That tells me that we have been priced out of the market.
By Sage of Bluesland
July 1, 2008 11:55 PM | Link to this
Poor sheep—when will they learn?!
Looking forward to more of your pathetic excuses for Donny’s nonperformance next year!
Keep ‘em coming! Pitiful sheep…
By Sean
July 1, 2008 11:57 PM | Link to this
Hey Mike,
Ask Levenson to explain why they decided to purchase two sports teams if Belkin was the only one with any money. It looks like they can’t re-sign both the Joshes and field a hockey team too. They don’t care about hockey anyway. Someone please, buy these idiots out. It’s a good thing they hired a coach from the AHL because aside from Kovy, this is an AHL team.
Actually Mike, could you just ask Levenson to suck one for all of us?
By Sean
July 2, 2008 12:03 AM | Link to this
Hey ASG, suck one.
By marion
July 2, 2008 12:08 AM | Link to this
suckers
By BLevenson
July 2, 2008 12:17 AM | Link to this
I don’t believe in BlueLand.
By R. Stroz
July 2, 2008 12:27 AM | Link to this
Mike - Please ask Waddell if he thinks we are moving in the right direction, whether he expects incremental progress next season, and if he is willing to make any playoff guarantees.
I triple dog dare you(think A Christmas Story). I really want to hear DW stick his tongue on the flag pole.
By Brendan
July 2, 2008 12:31 AM | Link to this
From the Craig Custance Interview, months ago, “I think we know how to sign free agents.” — Bruce Levenson
By Michael Guillemette
July 2, 2008 12:49 AM | Link to this
Seeing is NOT Believing
By Michael Guillemette
July 2, 2008 1:04 AM | Link to this
This should be DWs game plan today. Sign Hainsey or Orpik, Kristian Huselius, trade Lehtonen or Pavlec for a center, and then finally sign Nikulin.
By John 43
July 2, 2008 1:34 AM | Link to this
The owners must want to drive this team into the ground so that they don’t have to pay Belkin the full value. But when that law suit is over they have another waitig to go for ownership. This will take years to fix and they still will not put any money into the team Why else keep Don the only thing he dose well is run a team in to the ground
By NASCAR Dave
July 2, 2008 2:07 AM | Link to this
So, does everyone GET it??? Do you SEE??? Does it all make sense now??? I told you CAMPBELL would NEVER come here… I admit, I got my hopes up today, but I hark back to my consistent comments previously where I stated that CAMPBELL would NEVER come here because of WHO’S IN CHARGE here… Proven today…
Let’s Look At This Week’s “Key” Phrases:
“Big Splash” = Nothing happens
“Never Been Talked About” = It was OBVIOUSLY talked about
Waddell Denies Reports (re:Anderson) = It must really be true
Got THAT??? OK, follow along…
SIGN The Following TOMORROW:
ORPIK
MONTADOR
SUNDIN (Or) HOSSA - But remember what NASCAR Dave said: “HOSSA will NEVER be back HERE, EVER” - So, that would truly shock me if he came back… Not entirely sold on MORRISON, he might be ok - I’d ask KOVY who HE wants…
STILL need 2 D-MEN
STILL need TOP-LINE CENTER
STILL need (1 or 2) RW’s
We better be the BIG SPENDERS tomorrow, or Thrasher fans will be spending their money elsewhere this season…
What’s the deal with NIKULIN??? Is he coming or WHAT??? If he comes, we only need ORPIK, but NASCAR Dave would still sign MONTADOR on the cheap just in case…
Is KLEE a “Big Part”??? What about EXELBY??? SLATER??? WHITE???
Are you going to do YOUR DAMN JOB on WED, DONNIE??? Because you FAILED at it again today…
And for all you silly fools trying to blame the SPIRIT… They offered CAMPBELL 60 Million, and he DECLINED to come here… WHY is THAT??? WHO’s Fault is THAT???
If you wanna blame the SPIRIT for something, blame them for being STUPID as S+++ for keeping this STUPID A$$ Idiot, Donnie FRAUDell around… HE’s the DAMN PROBLEM here!!!
NUFF SAID.
By Tony C.
July 2, 2008 4:39 AM | Link to this
Ww. that was a total let-down.
By Andy
July 2, 2008 6:00 AM | Link to this
Wow, this has become a blog full of children.
By Section119
July 2, 2008 6:34 AM | Link to this
Fractious ownership and a GM who has lost credibility. Hossa saw it and ran, Campbell took less money to avoid it and not one money hungry UFA agreed to come to Atlanta on a day where DW had to make a deal.
Fire the owners!
By Sage of Bluesland
July 2, 2008 7:27 AM | Link to this
Silly sheep, when will you learn?!
“Big Splash” is nothing more than the ASG and Don Waddell urinating in your pocket, all the while telling you “It’s raining!”.
The best part: YOU actually believed it! YOU have actually subsidized this utter and embarrassing incompetence.
For those who whine that I repeat myself, well, at least I’m correct—and have been ALL ALONG. I know how it must hurt to hear that. You’ve been wrong about all of your defenses of Donny and the ownership and your ‘thoughts’ are nothing but mere PIPE DREAMS…Go to the ‘Nasty Nest’ where all of the other hopeless dreamers exist in Bwuewand!
What has all of your collective ‘wisdom’ and ‘knowledge’ gotten you? First off, whoever couldn’t see Donny and his sheer bluster coming from a mile away isn’t too sharp—or has an agenda that is self-serving…
Typical sheep! Enjoy your tix! Donny and the ASG thank you from their hearts! How funny.
By Alan
July 2, 2008 7:28 AM | Link to this
Why sign Sundin, Dave? He’s old, and we don’t need to get any older!
By hockeyman3944
July 2, 2008 8:10 AM | Link to this
Hey, Dum…when are you going to do ANYTHING? I read the signings and you’ve yet to do anything! I’m sure you understand you azz is on th eline and the fans are waiting for yo to pull the trigger on something. Hey sign a used puck bag and a new goalie stick…but sign someone who can help this miserable bunch before the big fish are gone…oops this IS the Thrashers…my bad! Second rate team led by third rate management and fourth rate owners. My season tix are gone if something measureable doesn’t happen.
By Toby
July 2, 2008 8:15 AM | Link to this
Check back with Mike Knobler as he monitors the first day of NHL free agency.
I’ve been checking. Is Mike working for the ASG? Where is the articles ripping ownership and DW for this mess???
By Bob
July 2, 2008 9:03 AM | Link to this
And for all you silly fools trying to blame the SPIRIT… They offered CAMPBELL 60 Million, and he DECLINED to come here… WHY is THAT??? WHO’s Fault is THAT???
Bingo. I pray that it is finally clear as day to the owners and to those few misguided fans that have been supporting Waddell, where the real problem lies.
It is not with the ownership. The ownership green lighted $60m for Campbell, that was the highest offer he received. The owners can’t do any more than that, but Campbell turned it down. Why? Because he knows what the others players know and what most of us know. That Waddell is incompetent and incapable of building a hockey club.
Free agents are exactly that, they get to pick and choose where they want to play. Campbell, and the others, finally have their freedom and would choose to play for a club they feel can win, and turn down our money to do so.
a GM who has lost credibility
When has he had any? I’ve known for years that he’s incompetent, he lost credibility with me after about Year 3 with his brain dead decisions of letting good players walk away for nothing and with his ridiculous free agent signings.
The only good that will come out of yesterday’s complete embarrassment, is that every last one of us and our owners will finally wake up and see where the true problem has laid all along.
Nothing meaningful will change here until meaningful changes are made and a real GM is brought in to build this club
By Denny
July 2, 2008 9:22 AM | Link to this
By Bod…Nothing meaningful will change here until meaningful changes are made and a real GM is brought in to build this club.
AND that will NOT happen until we have NEW OWNERS. SORRY, but Attorney’s make for lousy owners in ALL SPORTS FRANCHISES!
By T-Bone
July 2, 2008 9:32 AM | Link to this
Mike, I understand you’ve got an interview planned with DW. After his previous half-truths, misstatements and outright lies not only is his competence shot in my eyes, but his credibility as well. I trust nothing that comes from his mouth. It’s obvious word is out to any decent UFA and their agent that this organization is a black hole. Our only hope at this point is to get players via trades from teams looking to clear some cap space. Hey, Levenson! If all we get to watch is an AHL-caliber team, how about AHL-caliber ticket prices? Seems only fair to me.
By jared
July 2, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this
well by 10 o’clock half of the NHL has been included in rumors regarding free agent signings, however there is one team that still has not had a single rumor attached to it. THE GOTDANG THRASHERS! If anyone would like to start a poster campaign asking for DW’s head on a stick ive got like 7 or more printers on hand. just let me know
By B. Thenet
July 2, 2008 10:25 AM | Link to this
I know nobody is happy about how things are going right now, but why on earth are we taking shots at Knobler for it.
His job is to report things, not pass along gripes and whining about what has not been done.
By Rusty
July 2, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this
If you went to Sunday’s “Pick-A-Seat” event at Phillips, you’ll see a chunk of seats formerly filled by long-time fans were available in Aisle 115. That’s the heart of the base. DW can’t make deals just to make deals, but if something isn’t done to boost morale among the fans and give us hope for a competitive season, hockey may be finished in the Big A. If a camel is a horse designed by committee, then the Thrashers are a team designed by ASG. In other words, I’m not sure what it is. However, on the surface, it sure looks ugly. I don’t know who in this town could or would buy this team, but Gary Bettman needs to force this group to resolve their problems now … or sell.
By Tom
July 2, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this
Think of Waddell as the guy in the polyester suit at the end of the bar with a wad of cash in his pocket trying to meet a lady for the evening.
The attractive and desirable woman know him for what he is, a guy who may be fun for a night but has no long term prospects.
The average looking woman who is solid avoids him because they know that once things go sour he will ditch them and leave them hanging, look what he did to his last partner (coach).
Only the truly desperate or those that are money hungry look at Waddell with a gleam in their eyes. They will go with him even though they know it is not good for the long term because they are not concerned with the long term, they just want to get theirs now.
The top level free agents know that as long as Waddell is here there is no chance that they will get to play with great players. They run for the exits as soon as they can. Did Hossa ask to come here? Heatley? Kolvachuk?
Nope, those that sign with the Thrashers know that they have no better prospects and getting paid is more important than winning.
That is why Waddell may have a big bank roll today, but no one in their right mind would consider taking the money, it can only lead to heartache and misery.
It is also why my old seats in section 122 are sitting empty.
By Bob
July 2, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this
It is also why my old seats in section 122 are sitting empty.
And mine as well.
Great analogy, Tom, and spot on.
By HairyHeckler
July 2, 2008 11:12 AM | Link to this
As much as it pained me, I also let my 122 seats go this year
By Rebound
July 2, 2008 11:13 AM | Link to this
NO ONE RENEW SEASON TICKETS UNTIL WADDELL IS CANNED!
By Junkyard Hockey
July 2, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this
LEVENSON IS ACTUALLY RETURNING EMAILS. WRITE HIM AT OWNERS@ATLANTASPIRIT.COM.
By Brendan
July 2, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this
If it’s really true that the Spirit Group “greenlighted” 8-years/$60 million for Brian Campbell, then we can’t call them “cheap.” We can call them, (Bruce Levenson in particular,) many OTHER things, but we can’t call them cheap, at least insofaras ATTEMPTING to acquire Tier One free agents goes. That “alleged” contract offer reflected a $7.5 million cap hit for Brian Campbell. Campbell finally agreed to a $7.1 million cap hit deal with Chicago. Maybe it’s just meeee, but I’d say the ASG actually stepped up to the plate and swung for the fences. They identified Campbell as their TARGET, and they were hard-chargers.
Stop. That tells me something. Something I didn’t know YESTERDAY. Namely, that they are at LEAST TRYING to give every OUTWARD APPEARANCE that they do actually CARE about this team.
Okay, that was probably a bit overboard. Let me revise it. It shows me that they’re CONCERNED about ticket sales for next season. The fact that they didn’t even come away with Redden, Roszival, Streit or Commodore also tells me something else. (Wanna know what it is?)
It tells me that even the ASG CANNOT IGNORE that their franchise has an IMAGE PROBLEM. Ohh, they’ll deny that it’s “serious,” but they do, now, know it exists. And statements like, “Don Waddell is well respected in NHL circles” won’t be forthcoming from this ownership, lest they be in complete and total need of serious couch time with a qualified therapist.
But here’s the other troubling thing …. (Deep breaths) “Denial” isn’t just a river in Egypt. The ASG woke up this morning either (1) blaming Don Waddell or (2) finally admitting that THEY, themselves, are also to blame. Step One to any RECOVERY PROJECT is admitting that there is a problem. Until this happens, the problem will fester, and will continue to have far-reaching consequences, up to and including the loss of its premier player Ilya Kovalchuk. And folks, don’t you DARE blame that man (Kovalchuk) for walking away from the life equivalent of “an abusive alcoholic” who won’t get help or seek therapy. And there it is. With no sugar-coating.
You guys at the Spirit Group, Levenson, Peskowicz, Gearon, and Seydell could “man up” this afternoon to hold a press conference announcing that which you find unpalatable, but necessary for the advancement of your franchise.
By AHL
July 2, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this
DW
The Best move you will ever make for the Thrashers is when YOU decide that it is time to move on from ATL. You already have showed your management and coaching cannot win. Make the most important transaction,Leave for yourself, the team, and most of all the fans of the Thrashers.
By Toby
July 2, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this
I will say this…I would much rather have the problem of having too much money rather than huge cap problems Re: Boston
By AHL
July 2, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this
Brendan hit the nail on the Head. Choice 1 or 2, no coach to blame!
By Former Thrasher Fan
July 2, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this
I know the Blackhawk’s most likely overpaid for Campbell, but ownership there also had an image problem (no TV home games, alienating it’s greatest players like Hull, Esposito, Mikita). Notice after Bill Wirtz died, his son put the games back on local TV, brought back Hull, Mikita and Tony O, and now will fill the building by adding to Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews. They have added a top goalie and defenseman.
When will the Thrasher PR machine realize they have work to do?
By Cheech
July 2, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this
My only thought is that through the grace of God - and my parents - I grew up in Detroit. A team that continues to lock up key players, deal for more when necessary, and develop more on the farm. The Wings seemingly began to improve about 10 years ago when a guy named Don, moved south…
By AHL
July 2, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this
Cheech
I think you found something the OWNERS can look at!
By Michael Guillemette
July 2, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this
Toby, Jeff Schultz must be on vacation. When he returns, the ball will start rolling again in terms of throwing Waddell and the ASG under the bus. Don’t worry. Second, I would much rather be Boston than Atlanta. A relatively young team on the rise vs a team that has never won a playoff game and isn’t getting better (at least not yet). Who cares if you don’t have much cap space if you are winning?
By wh
July 2, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this
Tavares will be there for the taking at #1 - There is a lottery though and this sorry ownership group will deserve the bad karma of missing out. Time to move Kovy and Lehtonen and create a new 5 year plan. The mismanagement from this org is unreal. Need a Dman - Coburn would be looking pretty good. Way to “go for it” with a deeply flawed team and set the franchise back to square 1.
By English Teacher
July 2, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this
Waddell called for my dad again. My mom said very plainly that my father has been dead for almost three years. She repeated it. Slowly. Waddell left another message.
By English Teacher
July 2, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this
Waddell called for my dad again. My mom said very plainly that my father has been dead for almost three years. She repeated it. Slowly. Waddell left another message.
By English Teacher
July 2, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this
Waddell called for my dad again. My mom said very plainly that my father has been dead for almost three years. She repeated it. Slowly. Waddell left another message.
By Tom
July 2, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this
The Wings seemingly began to improve about 10 years ago when a guy named Don, moved south…
Amen brother, Amen…
By KW
July 2, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this
Has Don Waddell been active out there?! I hope the no-news “line” just means he doesn’t want to tip his hand or let other teams know what he’s doing! If this type of operating continues, Atlantans will be calling for both Waddell’s head AND that of the Atlanta Spirit Group’s members!! Since Atlanta is not considered a traditional hockey market, our team’s management needs to be creative with their approach! Look how aggressive Tampa’s management has been since the ownership took over! In our own division, our nemeses have been operating with vigor - our team … what’s going on here?!
By hockeyhoseky
July 2, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this
Someone on TSN said the Thrashers were rebuilding. I never knew they were ever ‘built’.
By Tom
July 2, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this
12:35PM Detroit Red Wings sign UFA forward Marian Hossa to a one-year contract worth $7.4 million.
By Hmmm...
July 2, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this
Hossa to the Red Wings per TSN
By Jpuck
July 2, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this
Former Thrasher Fan
The Thrashers have a PR machine? Wow, I didn’t know.
By Cheech
July 2, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this
Again, by the grace of God - Hossa to the Red Wings…
By Former Thrasher Fan
July 2, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this
just over the wire …. Don Waddell to the NHL front office for a GM to be named later……
By Wintirwolf
July 2, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this
Hossa for a YEAR. Gee….Do you think Marian believes Detroit is gonna repeat next year!
By JR-3
July 2, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this
Say what you want but we should give it up to Bruins mngmt.They are truly trying to bring in young,big,and promissing players.They have seemed to be a little bit better at drafting these days and have picked up some nice young forwards to work with.Being a true Bruins fan iam glad to see a salary cap take the ownership blame out of the equation and put it on the players and coaches.
By J.C. Thompson
July 2, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this
Hopefully the NHL steps in soon and forces the The Atlanta Spiriit (dumbest name ever) to sell the Thrashers.
By AHL
July 2, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this
WE ARE DOING NOTHING! THAT IS AS and WAS DW’s PLAN ALWAYS!
EVERYONE ON THIS BLOG CAN MAKE BETTER DEALS!
HE IS A _ ” Fill in the Blank”
By Mark
July 2, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this
So Hossa takes a one year deal for $7.4M? I find it hard to believe that Waddell didn’t offer similar money for many more years. Yet another example that illistrates perfectly that top flight players are not going to want to play for the Thrashers under the current leadership.
By yzerman414
July 2, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this
The Wings are taking him for a test drive before committing to a fat several year contract. I think it’s pretty safe to say that the one year deal was Detroit’s doing. Who wouldn’t want to play for them??
By Sara
July 2, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this
Mark Hossa turned down more money from several teams to sign that deal with Detroit. That’s probably why he rejected the offer from the Pens…he was hoping to get one from the Wings.
By ThrashersFan
July 2, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this
He wants to win a Cup remember……
By AHL
July 2, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this
DO NOTHING DON !!!!
HE NEEDS TO LEAVE ATLANTA NOW! TODAY AT 5:00PM IS NOT SOON ENOUGH.
By Sara
July 2, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this
yzerman414 the Wings aren’t taking Hossa for a test drive. Z’s contract is up after next season and he’ll be getting a big raise. Coupled with the contracts to Lidstrom and Rafalski, they can’t afford to keep Hossa past this season for big money, hence the one-year deal.
By TNT
July 2, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this
The best game he had as a Thrasher was against the Wings last year. I said then he was trying to impress them for when he became a UFA.
By AHL
July 2, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this
IF YOU WANT THE THRASHERS TO HAVE A CHANCE OF STAYING IN ATLANTA. WE NEED TO START THE “DUMP DON ” MOVEMENT AND NOT STOP TILL HE 1) GETS FIRED 2)RESIGNED 3) GETS PROMOTED
By Brett
July 2, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this
It looks like DW has made the splash he promised!!!! There arn’t any game chagers left out there. It looks like he will have to make any changes through trades. There is a rumor that he is about to annouce the signing of Dick Tarnstrom to a 5 yr 30 million contract to bolster our blueline!!!! I’m glad I kept my money this season and didn’t re up my seats!
By Former Thrasher Fan
July 2, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this
Hurricanes sign defenceman Joni Pitkanen to US$12-million, three-year contract
Hurricanes sign defenceman Josef Melichar to one-year deal
Why can’t WE sign a defenseman?
By jared
July 2, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this
why can’t we sign a defenseman
Why cant we sign a single player while offering to overpay them
Fan fight vs Dw and Asg anyone? or can we do some voodoo in their front yard to scare them out of town?
By T-Bone
July 2, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this
We got one: Hainsey five years for $22.5mm. Joy in Mudville at last.
By A$G
July 2, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this
We won’t spend our money!!!!!!!!
Fools! Please spend yours and BUY TICKETS!
By joyaman
July 2, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this
Wow, we really upgraded by signing the 14th defenseman since yesterday at noon. Guess we finally found the level of talent where being overpayed and getting long-term security becomes more attractive than playing for a winner.
If anyone out there starts comparing Hainsey to Campbell, Striet, Redden, etc…, I think I’ll have to barf right on the spot. Spare me your “good value” arguments. This signing, and all D-men that signed before Hainsey, are obvious indications of how far this franchise has fallen - or should I say - failed to ever rise.
RRAAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLLLLFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF,
burp……- Sorry, I just couldn’t hold it any longer.
-joyaman
By brian gura
July 2, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this
hey T-bone where is that listed can i get the link? thanks
By Sunny
July 2, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this
“why can’t we sign a defenseman?”
here you go: Ron Hainsey 5 yrs, 22.5 mil
By joyaman
July 2, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this
Nice post from Hockey Buzz by a Columbus Blue Jackets blogger:
Hainsey signs in ATL
July 2, 2008, 4:01 PM ET [5 Comments]
5 years and $22.5 million. I am sure the Jackets had last chance to sign him but at $4.5 a year is just insane for Hainsey. Nice player for $2 million/yr but now will be a boat anchor of a contract with the Thrashers.
Good Luck Ron
Fire The Cannon!
Eric Smith JacketsBuzz@yahoo.com
By Doccat
July 2, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this
Who will be the Thrashers captain. Make it Kovy