Thrashers

By Jpuck

July 7, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this

Sure it is insulting especially when you consider Tampa finished 30th. It is also unfortunate in the way he expressed his displeasure in being forced to agree to a trade. remember Atlanta is a rival of Tampa and so there was no love lost in his comments.

Reality is that when given a choice any of us are going to chose a deal that pays us competitively and puts us on a proven winner. Overtime this balance shifts as the lower ranked teams make moves that cause the team to advance.

Of course there lies the rub - are the Thrash moving forward and just as important at what pace? I think by the majority of posts on previous blog subjects the answer is no in both counts. The rest of the offseason will be crucial in answering this question as for now it, the last week is too small of a window to judge.

By Mark

July 7, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this

Sounds pretty accurate to me. I wouldn’t want to come here if I was an NHL player. It’s a dead end with little chance to win consistantly and almost no chance to win the Stanley Cup.

By Hockey Biltong

July 7, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this

Shoot, Dan.Come to Atlanta and beat the tar out of the Lightning every time we play them.You know there is no defence, with you gone.You could have really turned the tables on them and helped your own cause!!!

By Smoothie

July 7, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this

F Dan Boyle and his stupid comments. I hope he has fun trying to pick up the slack for his new geriatric pairing partner Rob Blake!

Mike — what we really want to know is whether there is any rumour at all attached to the Thrashers and RW UFA Pavol Demitra. Despite his age, I think he’d be the perfect fit for the 1st line; added scoring punch to take the pressure off of Kovy to score 60 goals. If you ask me, we should be waving a 3-4 yr deal worth 16.5 - 20 million dollars at him.

By LAC

July 7, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this

Well this comment just goes to prove what all the bloggers know, Atlanta is an awful franchise with THE WORST owners in the NHL, and a GM who could not run a local street hockey team in an effective manner.

Word is out folks, Hossa made sure of that, Atlanta DONES NOT WANT TO WIN, they have absolutely NO intention of getting top line players and only care about getting attendence high enough to make a profit.

The fans are scum to asg and the players in this league know are too.

Remember opening night last season ?

That LIAR rutherford snydel, or whatever the HELL his name is, standing there telling EVERYONE they were doing everything to win the STANLEY CUP !

What an outright lie as we ALL know.

Now again this off season, promises of front office upgrades, NOTHING….

More promises of QUALITY pleayer during UFA period… so far almost NOTHING.

Trades in the NHL everywhere, what do we do NOTHING, NOTHING !!!!!!!!!

Kovy is gone folks, he wants to play for a WINNER, Atlanta is NOT a winner in any respect and will never be until a NEW OWNER is here as well as a GM who knows what he is doing and one that is respected in the NHL, unlike the total scumbag we are stuck with now.

We live in a great city, state and have a first-class arena, after 10 years we should have a first-class NHL team, one that is a winner and one that gives the fans their money’s worth night in and nioght out…

But what we have is a low level AHL team, that will again, this year, fall flat as not much has been done to improve the team, I guess Dan Boyle is correct, from a players view who wants to come here and play for a team not commited to the players, the fans, or WINNING !!!!!!!

Flatly put Mr.Potty Mouth levenson YOU SUCK you gutless little LIAR ! and so does your LIAR buddy snydel you make us SICK of your LIES !

By General

July 7, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this

From Scott Burnside’s article posted on ESPN.com:

The bottom line is, if you don’t know how to run your team — Atlanta, Florida, Toronto, come on down — then you reap what you sow. In most markets, except Atlanta, that means a changing of the guard; and the team, in theory, brings in smarter hockey people who make better decisions and the team gets better and makes more money and stops complaining about the salary cap going up.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/columns/story?columnist=burnside_scott&id=3475686

Does that answer your question???

By B. Thenet

July 7, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this

No question it is a slap in the face to the Thrashers organziation, from a guy who was really upset at the Lightning organization.

Of course it is entertaining that a guy whose team finished behind us two seasons in a row is getting all huffy about being moved here.

Boyle also said the Thrashers were 6 years away from winning, kind of shows you he isn’t exactly front office material down the line.

By Wintirwolf

July 7, 2008 12:19 PM | Link to this

It’s amazing how the players in the NHL are now-a-days. Yeah, you might show displeasure at a possible shift to a franchise that wasn’t doing so well. I can’t fault Boyle for airing his mind on the matter, but it shows a remarkable lack of tact to name a specific team. Especially in light of Tampa’s record for last year.(Think about how those players felt back in the 60s/70s going to play for the California Golden Seals - That was hockeys version of hell back then.) There’s also the backhanded comments about Atlanta brought out by Marian Hossa once he landed in Pittsburgh after the trade. With this sort of negative aura surrounding the Thrashers maybe we could see some unification of the team with a resolve to shove these comments back down the origin points. I realize it’s a bit overly optimistic, but I’ve seen 3 hockey teams in this town with varying degrees of success and this is not the worst I’ve ever seen. It’s just a matter of management of this current team getting their heads out of a BUSINESS model and attempt to run a SPORTS franchise in the most direct way possible.

By The Other J.B.

July 7, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this

Right on Smoothie. With Boyle, Recchi, and probably a bunch of other haters who’ve crapped all over the Thrashers in the media the past week, I’m getting pretty p*ssed off. All the more reason to prove everyone wrong this season, in my opinion…it’s not like we even finished last in the league or the division! What the hell?!?! Why is it socially acceptable to sign with Tampa and not Atlanta? (I know about 100 people are going to respond “DW and/or ASG” to that last one; saved you the time and effort there…)

I’ll take all the fair criticsm of the team’s performance and I’ll even look the other way from the ‘hockey doesn’t belong in the south’ mantra, even though it’s stupid and dripping with unjustified predjudice (see Canes & Bolts cross referenced with STANLEY CUP!!!), but the open insults are a bit much.

TO FREE AGENTS: You don’t want to sign with us? Fine. Go find another team and SHUT UP ABOUT IT. Dragging the thrashers through the mud only makes you look like a douche.

We may not have a team with a great history thus far, but with Zhithead and Frankenbobby gone and Bogo, Hainsey, Nikulin (please God, oh please!), and probably others to come as well, not too mention Coach Anderson behind the bench, I think we’re in much better shape than last season.

And, even if Kovy already has his bags packed, you know he’ll still play butt off this season. That man doesn’t know how to half-a* it, kinda like Marian did before the trade deadline. Anyone who’s seen Ilya play or heard an interview with him knows it. I’ll enjoy him while Ive got him ya know?

The only way to shut everyone in ‘hockeyworld’ up is to win, so have at it Thrash. I just don’t give a damn about any of this crap any more and no one is going to persuade me to start dumping on my own team.

Remaining a true blue Thrasher fan and still optimistic about the possibilities in 08-09,

J. f’n B., y’all!

By Big Bill

July 7, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this

These comments just prove something we should all examine.

While one person or others may be a sucess in business inone field, they may not be in another. Case in point Atlanta Thrashers. The owners of this team, and Hawks, are sucessful bussinessmen in their chosen field, they have proven that.

But while they have money, they chose to venture off into another field where they had no knowledge and it is now killing them.

Just a case of a bunch of little rich boys who want something they never had, likely they never were into sports growing up, from their appearence I really assume that, and can only live their dream by owning a team and directing it.

In that regard they are a complete failure as we all know and see, it is really now time for them to sell the teams to someone who will bring a winner to this town, we have had more than enough or little rich boys running the team into the ground, like many have said… we are the laughing stock of the entire league.

By Mark

July 7, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

“Why is it socially acceptable to sign with Tampa and not Atlanta?”

Maybe because Tampa has new owners that have made A LOT of moves to actually improve the roster by making trades and spending money. Not to mention that prior to last season Tampa actually had a very competitive franchise that won a Stanley Cup.

By Brendan

July 7, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this

Down the road, the team will be better. The key is … don’t give away any lottery draft picks. Rent players at the deadline, and try to stockpile even more picks. The draft picks are the key to returning this team to the playoffs, and to going deep into the playoffs.

Also, don’t throw John Anderson under the bus, if things don’t work out splendidly this season. We’re rebuilding. Probably with a youth movement. We must give the prospect players a chance to actually develop. It takes time.

By Smoothie

July 7, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

J.B. — preach on brotha! Your post got me pumped up just reading about it. As a fan of the Thrashers and hockey, I have nothing but disdain for brain-dead idiots like Boyle who make a distasteful comment like that. Other than the fact there are no state taxes in Fla and some pretty white sand, there is nothing better about Tampa than Atlanta.

The main difference, and the inherent problem, is the fact that the Bolts have owners, right or wrong in their treatment of Boyle, who actually give a damn about hockey and winning. The Thrashers were nothing but an added bonus or throw-in for these bumbling idiots that own and run the ASG.

They thought they could resurrenct basketball in a city that rightfully should embrace hoops because of not only it’s demographic make-up but because of it’s history of past success (I realize it wasn’t a great run of success but the 80’s weren’t all that bad for the Hawks) as an NBA franchise.

Well, as Big Bill just pointed out, they can’t even do that right because they don’t know anything about sports and the business of winning. I hate the fact that sports has become such big business because it does not fit into any traditional business model I’ve learned about in school. Most businesses are more open to competition and the labor unions are not nearly as powerful in terms of CBA’s and inflated salaries. But that’s a whole different topic of discussion.

The fact of the matter is that these owners need to start owning up to the fact they’ve made some serious mistakes and errors of judgment if they hope to win back the faith and trust of their unfulfilled hockey fan base.

Winning IS success in this business and success earns more attention and fans at the turnstiles. If they don’t start spending a little more $$ to make money, then these fans aren’t going to wait patiently another 5 years for fear of a botched rebuilding job by a GM who has arlready screwed up the initial development of an expansion franchise.

By Bob

July 7, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

Knobler, it’s both an insult and reality. And it just plain stinks. This club has been run into the ground in 10 short years, it really never got off the ground.

Also, don’t throw John Anderson under the bus, if things don’t work out splendidly this season

I had that same thought/fear this a.m., Brendan. I thought “what are they going to do when the Thrashers’ start out 2-8 this year?”. They better not throw Anderson under the bus. Goodness, what a mess.

By J(Z)

July 7, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

We’ll have to be sure to remember this if San Jose comes to Blueland this year. I’m all for booing him every time he touches the puck.

By Alan

July 7, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this

Maybe because Tampa has new owners that have made A LOT of moves to actually improve the roster by making trades and spending money.

They’ve made a lot of moves. Did it really improve the roster? Debatable at best.

By LuckyLarry

July 7, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this

They call me lucky because things always work like this for me. I buy season tickets to hockey and the team is a joke. How can they keep this GM? They should fire themselves when they finally kick out Don, what a complete embarrassment this team has become.

By Wintirwolf

July 7, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this

Just because you throw huge piles of money at players to come to a team doesn’t make it for a winning combination. Just ask the later 90’s/early 2000s New York Rangers.

By Joe

July 7, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this

Everyone in the NHL and NBA knows that the Atlanta Spirit is an absolute joke!

If you are too poor to own a franchise by yourself, do not invest in one. These idiots need to be broken up by Bettman and Stern for the good of Atlanta, the Thrashers, the Hawks, the NBA and the NHL.

The Atlanta Spirit is an abomination.

By Thrashy Thrashy

July 7, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this

Boyle can shove it up his a*.

WE (and the columnists/journalists who don’t resort to the discussion of the “market” when pointing out Atlanta’s woes) ARE the only ones allowed to criticize this organ-I-zation, by God!

Most of us have wanted Waddell’s job for years. We’ve seen the poor drafting, the poor free agent signings, the poor trades. We know very well what’s wrong with this team, especially after ASG arrived to screw things up even more.

Damn you, Boyle! You will pay!

BWA-HA-HA-HA!

By Sara

July 7, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

The irony with Boyle is that he’s waived his NTC and been traded to a team that can’t get past the second round of the playoffs. Play-off regulars the Sharks may be, but I don’t see them as Cup contenders because they have yet to get the job done. So I’m not sure Boyle really did himself any favors there.

I also think the owners were bluffing and Boyle fell for it. No way would they have let him land in Atlanta. Of course, who says these guys are all playing with a full deck anyway - I’ve never seen a team re-tool AND get rid of their best defenseman in the same off-season. 8-/

By hockeyfan

July 7, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this

Mike congrats on your time Friday…

I’m not mad at Boyle but the Tampa staff is a different story. What Boyle should have said was go ahead and waive me and you get nothing in return.

By kracker

July 7, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this

Fans need villians almost as much as they need heros, so Boyle does that nicely for me.

By Sunny

July 7, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this

The irony with Boyle is that he’s waived his NTC and been traded to a team that can’t get past the second round of the playoffs. Play-off regulars the Sharks may be, but I don’t see them as Cup contenders because they have yet to get the job done.

San Jose acquired Boyle (and others) to try & help them get over that hump. Will they now win the Stanley Cup? I don’t know. But you don’t need to be in Boyle’s position to understand the odds of winning are much better in San Jose than Atalnta. If you are going to be moved, better to have some input.

The Thrashers can only dream of being stuck with 2nd round playoff losses.

Give the guy a break. The management team in Tampa is a circus & he didn’t want to come to another one.

By Andy S

July 7, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this

Hockey players are people too, so hopefully he’s just been drinking the Bolts’ kool-aid regarding the Thrashers and isn’t voicing a widely held concern.

By Marty

July 7, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this

So when does the season start? I’m amazed that all the Vegas experts on this site already know how we are going to do this year when we haven’t even rounded out the roster yet. Are we or are we not going to get Nikulin? Shouldn’t we find that out first before we throw in the towel and start the “don’t blame Anderson, it’s a rebuilding year” routine? What if Little does this year what Enstrom did last year? How do the 2 guys from Pit do for us when they start from day 1 with us? Oh forget I asked, I hate Waddell, I hate the ASG, let me be part of your club!

By Bob

July 7, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this

The Thrashers can only dream of being stuck with 2nd round playoff losses

San Jose was my pick to win the Cup the past two years in a row, they have a hell of a club and just got a lot more dangerous, to paint them as somehow lacking, is disingenious, at best.

so hopefully he’s just been drinking the Bolts’ kool-aid regarding the Thrashers and isn’t voicing a widely held concern

We’ve heard our former Captain Mellanby’s comments last year (remember those), we’ve heard Heatley the day he got to Ottawa, we saw what Hoss did to get out of here, we went hard after Campbell and Rolston and both dissed us, we’ve heard from Recchi (who I figured as our future captain) last week, we’ve heard from Boyle now.

I’d say the view is most certainly widely held.

By Sara

July 7, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this

Sunny SJ couldn’t get over that hump with Campbell in the fold last season, so I’m not banking on the addition of Boyle to make them any better. I’m not trying to just trash SJ (see my post on this topic in Rawhide’s blog several hours ago). But the facts are, SJ is a play-off flop annually and until they prove otherwise, they are not true contenders (kinda like until ATL proves otherwise, we aren’t winners).

And I’m not giving anyone a break - why should I for one thing? That takes all the fun out of it (see Kracker’s 3:49 PM comment). Plus, I don’t think there is any reason for a player to name names/teams when they are being derogatory. That’s just bad PR for the League in general. Take the higher ground kind of thing.

By Sara

July 7, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this

San Jose was my pick to win the Cup the past two years in a row, they have a hell of a club and just got a lot more dangerous, to paint them as somehow lacking, is disingenious, at best.

No, it’s not disingenuous. Welcome to the ultimate hockey accountability - if you don’t win the Cup, your season was a failure. Period. Facts are facts - in 16 years, the Sharks have been to the Conference finals once. That doesn’t mean they are a bad team, but it doesn’t make them an automatic contender either.

It’s all a relative viewpoint. From a Thrashers viewpoint, SJ is an awesome club to be emulated I suppose. From a Wings viewpoint, SJ is an annoying gnat you swat and smush. :D

By kracker

July 7, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this

Marty You are being reasonable, logical and fair-minded and I want you to stop that right now ;)

By BG33Brown

July 7, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this

What did Recchi say. I obviously missed something here. Damn sunburn from the beach.

By Bob

July 7, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this

if you don’t win the Cup, your season was a failure. Period

Harumph. Easy to say when you’re a Wings fan.

I hear ya, though. Sharks are confounding, they should go further than they do, must be those dang Wings that scare them off.

By Marty

July 7, 2008 6:34 PM | Link to this

Must be those dang Wings that scare them off? In the last 10 years the Sharks went to the playoffs 9 times, meaning they lost 9 times. The Red Wings beat them 1, the other 8 times were by other Western Conference teams. Given you are making a reference to a Wings fan I hope that was sarcasm. Given your other posts being so slanted, I can’t tell. Besides, the Sharks just lost Rivet too, not just Campbell, so Blake & Boyle is a step back from Rivet & Campbell. As for Recchi, he reminds me of the kid that lost the student body election. He really wanted it, but then when he loses, he says “oh, I didn’t want to be president anyway.” He just bad mouthed Atlanta when he wasn’t offered to stay here and after he told the locals he loves being over in the VA Highlands. Then he doesn’t get an offer and suddenly it’s a bad place to be. Same goes for Mellanby. Nothing like taking a shot at the old girlfriend when she already dumped you.

By Mike Knobler

July 7, 2008 7:01 PM | Link to this

hockeyfan Thanks for noticing. That change to the end of the course was nasty, as was the humidity. I say, bring back the Piedmont Park finish for Peachtree.

It should be a lot cooler at the IceForum this week and in Philips this fall.

By Sara

July 7, 2008 7:50 PM | Link to this

Bob yeah, those are just the differences in hockey markets as well. When it comes to the Wings, all the regular season wins and President’s Trophies don’t really matter if the Cup didn’t get brought back to Hockeytown. The Canadian markets are likely the same way. Whereas for the Thrashers, success at this point could just be measured in winning some play-off games. It’s all in stages really: Stage 1 is to be competitive (which the Thrashers managed to get to, briefly); Stage 2 is to be perennial contenders (where the Sharks now languish); Stage 3 is to win the Cup. I’d prefer the Thrashers to be in Stage 2 by now, unfortunately we’re back working on Stage 1. Stage 3 is where the Sharks want to be. In all fairness, I think bringing in McLellan more than anything else they did will help them. But, technically he’s an unproven HC so they still have to prove themselves on the ice and when it matters most.

There are a lot of weird situations like that in hockey (sports period). How is TO so bad when it’s supposed to be hockey mecca? How can the Rangers spend so much money and still suck?? How can a talented and well-rounded team like SJ never even sniff the pinnacle? It’s the unexplainable (or in the case of the Rangers and Leafs kharma at work).

Marty I wonder how much of Recchi’s displeasure stems from the events befalling McCrimmon. Recchi was really pushing for him as HC, which obviously didn’t work out. It also apparently was a bit scandalous the way it played out, which likely didn’t impress Recchi much either. Not sure what happened with Mellanby to get his panties in such a wad. I know there was a bit of a flap over him being offered a front-office job but that was really his fault anyway, so boohoo.

By kracker

July 7, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this

alert, alert Make mine a large!

cafepress t-shirt

By David

July 7, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this

so recchi to tampa, dmitra to vancouver and morrison to the ducks….sigh…i’d like to sign anybody at this point

By Alan

July 7, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this

Harumph. Easy to say when you’re a Wings fan.

It’s all relative. As a Wings fan, I expect them to go deep - no less than the conference finals. And a successful season would be winning the cup. That’s how they roll.

As a Thrashers fan as well, I expect the Thrashers to finish above .500. If this team manages to make it to the playoffs this season, I will count it a success only if they at least win a game.

Maybe those expectations seem high to some, but they look good to me.

By kracker

July 7, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this

HI Mike Isn’t it time to get a new pic of a Thrashers player to replace Hossa? He’s been there for days now. Maybe put Hainsey there instead? Hossa is no longer a Thrasher or a Pen. Ok, I be quiet now…

By Hockeyfan

July 7, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this

Mike my spies are everywhere…

I heard we were working on signing some guy named Patrick Stefan = 0

By Tony C.

July 7, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this

Morrison signed with Anaheim… You have to wonder what’s wrong in Vancouver? Morrison was a huge part of that franchise-Remember “The Big Line” (Naslund/Morrison/Bertuzzi)? But then it seems as if he was Vancouver’s “plan C” if Sundin or Hossa didn’t sign

I would’ve really liked to see him here, but I gues he’s re-united with Burke & Nonis in Duckville.

By Alan

July 7, 2008 11:43 PM | Link to this

You have to wonder through all this, if Waddell is trying to land Sundin. No new signings since Day Two, still way under the cap, and Kovalchuk needs a top center. We can certainly afford his services. Question is whether he signs here, anywhere else, or retirement.

Well, maybe you all aren’t wondering, but I sure am.

By Marty

July 8, 2008 12:00 AM | Link to this

Alan I don’t think we are as far under the salary cap as everyone thinks. How much is Leht’s new contract going to be? What if we sign Nikulin? If Nikulin gets a 4 million dollar deal and Lehts gets a 3 millioin dollar deal, that is 7 million on top of the 31 million that is already committed. That’s 38 million dollars. I know the common theme here is to scream conspiracy theory about how we are not even going to reach the floor of 40 million, but that is only 2 million shy and we are still going to sign Bogo to something and maybe bring in a RW. I think the plan is to get that RW and put Little in the middle. If he struggles to flip him and Perrin on the spot. I forgot, we also have to throw in 800 thousand or so for Boulton who is going to get resigned. So even if Lehts only gets 2 million those numbers still get us to 38 million + Bogo when you figure in Boulton. We are easily going to be at 40 million. Now Waddell has room to go and get that RW that Kovy needs for the top line, that’s all this means right now. I don’t see us spending 10 million for Sundin and getting to 48-52 million though.

By ATL Fan

July 8, 2008 2:26 AM | Link to this

Just read the yahoo sports power rankings. Guess where we stand? Thats right the Thrashers are located in the most prestigious 30th place. This is what it says: Atlanta Thrashers – Does anyone else wonder if the team John Anderson used to coach – the AHL champion Chicago Wolves – could beat the one he coaches now? Or are you more excited about the signing of defenseman Ron Hainsey and the retention of backup goalie Johan Hedberg? Is that all the Thrashers have done this summer? That would be affirmative. Wow.

By Big Bill

July 8, 2008 2:32 AM | Link to this

Where is Don Waddell ? On an extended vacation to the North Pole ?

Why are we not signing players ? Why are we not trading for players ?

Just what the hell is going on with the Thrashers anyhow ?

This Waddell seems more and more out of touch with reality every day that passes, Just what is this guys problem in not wanting to make this team better ?

Were the Boyle comments directed at him ? You would have to think so since he simply cannot put a solid team on the ice and has had ten years to do so.

It has to be Don Waddell who is the root of the players issues with this team, but why in GOD’s name is he sitting on his hands and not doing one damn thing to improve this shabby team ?

Two moves, one buyout of Zit and one unknown UFA… That’s it folks as Porky Pig used to say !!!!

Just what is the GM of this team doing ??

The more he waits the less chance to sign or trade for a solid center and more scoring… Gee we could almost make an All-Star team with the players he has let go !!!!

Waddell just What In The HELL is YOUR problem Please tell us so we will know the rest of the story !!!!

By B. Thenet

July 8, 2008 6:57 AM | Link to this

Mike I have a question for DW

Why is it that this organization takes so long to announce signings?

The Hedberg signing took over a week to announce, we aparently have signed Eric Boulton to a 2 year deal, and we have supposedly signed borderline NHLer Junior Lessard the other day.

Look, it is pretty clear that nobody is happy about how this offseason has gone so far, but isn’t it insulting to your own players when you seemingly refuse to announce their signings publicly?

By kracker

July 8, 2008 7:13 AM | Link to this

I’m reaching here, speculating: Could a deal be in the works to include a Thrashers prospect, perhaps Holzapfel or Machacek or Espo, and they want to see them in prospect camp? Is there any rule against scouting another team’s prospects? I have the usual aversion to trading maturing prospects but you have to give up something to get something.

By five_hole

July 8, 2008 7:56 AM | Link to this

Fans need villians almost as much as they need heros, so Boyle does that nicely for me. - kracker Excellent point.

Why is it that this organization takes so long to announce signings? B. Thenet (great name, BTW). Sadly, things never move at the pace I’d like to see them, either. Frankly, the announcement of resigning Eric Boulton isn’t going to make me jump out of my seat to renew my tickets. I like Eric and I think he has value for the club, but there were players I’d much rather have seen us sign first (sigh).

By Steve

July 8, 2008 8:52 AM | Link to this

Alan, Are really a a hockey fan? Your previous post about the Lightning having a better roster is debatable??? Did you watch that last place club last year or are you still remembering the ‘04 Cup season? Smith and Kolzig in net isn’t better than Holmqvist and Ramo? Other than Richards, name the superb Tampa Bay 2nd line players last year. Tough isn’t it because they were that miserable. They have Malone, Vrbata, and the #1 pick plus all kinds of offensive help this year. Boyle was out last year and he played hurt when he was in the lineup. Believe it or net the club was .500 or very close to it without Boyle and his -27 rating. Reconsider your previous post so we can take you seriously in the future.

By Dick Cheney

July 8, 2008 9:03 AM | Link to this

The problem in Atlanta is one man - BRUCE LEVENSON. He is the NHL poster child for present-day owners who execute the “Peter Principle” day in and day out. It is he who keeps and believes in Waddell, (who by the way is the GM that best exemplifies the “Peter Principle”).

By Sara

July 8, 2008 9:06 AM | Link to this

Steve the Bolts have their own message board - why don’t you go play there? Or perhaps in traffic?? Either way…your D still blows as much as it did last season and neither Smith nor Kolzig is a proven savior in net (well, Kolzig waassss, before he got old). Loading up on offense is all well and good but you have to keep pucks out of the net too - that’s how hockey works - or did you miss that part of the 101 class?

It’s your basement to climb out of - have fun.

By Former season ticket holder

July 8, 2008 9:21 AM | Link to this

My brother rode the terminal train at Hartsfield last week standing next to Don Waddell. Probably shocked that anyone recognized him, Wadddell proceded - get this - to ask him about his thoughts on R.J. Umberger, the Flyers’ free-agent who recently signed with some other team (Columbus?) Now, THAT’s leadership: asking a guy passing through Atlanta about a player-personnel decision! FIRE THIS CLOWN!

By Mark

July 8, 2008 9:34 AM | Link to this

You know, I am actually starting to warm up to this offseason. Let me tell you why … two words, John Tavares. If this off season continues we should struggle again and maybe finish in the lottery and have a really good shot at John Tavares. This kid is the real deal. He broke Gretzky’s record for goals by a 16 year old. Anyway, maybe we really stink it up this year, finally get rid of Waddell, and then grab Tavares. That would make the past couple of years of torture under Waddell’s leadership worthwhile. Of course, we could lose the lottery. That would be somewhat fitting for this franchise.

By Bob

July 8, 2008 9:34 AM | Link to this

Now, THAT’s leadership: asking a guy passing through Atlanta about a player-personnel decision! FIRE THIS CLOWN!

Hey, this is glorious news. Lord knows that the advice he’s been getting from his scouting department stinks to high heaven, your brother surely knows as much if not more than them, so Waddell is getting better advice!

The first step to recovery is admitting you have a problem, the Wing fans just may be right, Waddell is learning!

By Sunny

July 8, 2008 9:57 AM | Link to this

Sara I understand the point you are making & agree it’s not the best PR move to name a specific team you don’t want to go to (although I interpreted the Boyle quote as something TB management said to him - seems like he was repeating management’s opinion of the Thrashers). But at any rate I just feel it doesn’t serve any purpose to be mad at a player who was obviously in an emotional state when he made these comments. Being upset with Boyle is akin to shooting the messenger. I would direct my unhapiness with those responsible for making Atlanta a team someone would say those things about.

I do not mean to single you out b/c I think you along with several others are very reasonable posters here. I read but don’t often post! Anyway my 2 cents & will go back to reading :-)

By Sara

July 8, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this

Sunny I hear ya - but I don’t think Boyle’s opinion can be dismissed - obviously he waived his NTC to avoid the “fate” of being picked up by ATL - he thinks no more highly of this club than TB mgmt does (pot meet kettle but I digress). And believe me, I’m frustrated with the mess here.

Bob and FSTH what, pray tell, is wrong with DW talking hockey with a fan? Why is it any different than us talking about what transactions other teams have been involved in? What - is he supposed to monologue to some guy about all his off-season plans? Boy - you guys are really reaching at this point.

By Bob

July 8, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this

the Bolts have their own message board - why don’t you go play there?

Hypocrit much? Wasn’t that you and the other Wing Ding fans we had to endure this past playoffs on these blogs?

Being upset with Boyle is akin to shooting the messenger. I would direct my unhapiness with those responsible for making Atlanta a team someone would say those things about

Bingo.

By Alan

July 8, 2008 10:19 AM | Link to this

Your previous post about the Lightning having a better roster is debatable???

Everyone here is making a big f*** deal out of the Lightning acquiring so many free agents in the off season. Have you been paying attention, or are you one of those fly-by-night idiots that sometimes comes to post here? Maybe you’re even a person of questionable intelligence, since you can’t seem to read.

I am a hockey fan, and I have been since the day I was born, one sunny day in the Detroit suburb of Wyandotte, Michigan. And like I said, whether or not the Lightning’s roster has got better is debatable. I’m glad you could understand that part. However, I believe their roster has got worse. They went on a shopping spree and picked up everything they thought they might need. Except, you know, defense. They had one of the worst defense corps in the league last year, and they’ve done nothing to fix that this year. Offense doesn’t mean s** if you can’t keep the puck out of your own zone. Anyone with any sort of intelligence would know that.

Oh, and by the way, if you’re some sort of alternate name of one of The Usual Suspects, I would say it shows exactly how much of a coward you are to hide behind alternate names instead of giving your opinion to me, straight up. If you are a hockey fan, you are exactly the type of fan that makes people sick. As Sara said, perhaps you should go play in traffic. 285 could use another source of amusement, since ladders in the roadway have worn out their welcome.

By jason

July 8, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this

I think if the thrashers had better players, they would be a winning franchise.

By Bob

July 8, 2008 10:25 AM | Link to this

Why is it any different than us talking about what transactions other teams have been involved in?

Why nothing, nothing at all! As I said above, you’re right, he’s learning and getting better, he’s showing that he now understands he and his scouting staff don’t know more than we fans, he’s reaching out to us. Sara, please send Don a link to these boards so he can continue his learning curve! This is great, a pivotal moment in Thrashers’ history.

Boy - you guys are really reaching at this point

Let me try to go 2 for 2 with you today, Sara, sarcasm gets lost on ya a little, eh?

By Sara

July 8, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

Hypocrit much? Wasn’t that you and the other Wing Ding fans we had to endure this past playoffs on these blogs?

I’m sorry - I guess I didn’t get the memo that said we could not discuss play-off hockey on these boards since that meant we would not be talking about the Thrashers. Unfortunately I don’t think anyone got that memo.

You know what - if I came on these boards and acted like PNS, then you could call me a hypocrite. And in fact - the only person bringing up the Wings on a regular basis is you.

By Bob

July 8, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this

the only person bringing up the Wings on a regular basis is you

What? Now you’re just making goofy stuff up.

Word to the wise: people that live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones

By Steve

July 8, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this

Alan, a need to cuss to get your message across is intelligent I guess to juveniles. Pretty sad that you can’t make a valid argument. Bye bye!

By Alan

July 8, 2008 11:42 AM | Link to this

Bye bye, Steve! Have fun playing in 285! Will you be in rush hour traffic, or are you going to go play out there now?

By Marty

July 8, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

he’s showing that he now understands he and his scouting staff don’t know more than we fans, he’s reaching out to us.

Bob, can you tell us what position you held in the NHL? Why is it you feel you’re smarter than people who get paid to do this for a living? I’m not saying you’re right or wrong, I just want to hear your reasons for making that comment. Have you ever submitted your resume to the ASG or any other hockey club?

By Marty

July 8, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this

Alan, someone on Rawhide’s blog just posted a link to the cap space and salary committed for the Thrashers right now. It is under the name Roswell Thrasherfan which I think is NASCAR Dave because he just posted something about that guy and that guy or Brian haven’t been on the site since last year. Either way, the more important thing is that the link had the updated salary figure. I forgot to include at least a million for Zhitnik’s buyout in my above numbers. So we are at 33 million, they don’t have Valabik’s or Pavelec’s salary on there which takes us to 35 million. Then throw on Bogo’s salary, then whatever Kari Lehts ends up getting, say 800 thou and 2.5 to 3 million. You’re now at roughly 39 million almost and not even looking at guys like Nikulin, a RW which could be 4 million each. If that is true, meaning we get each of them at 4 million, that takes us to 47 million. No way do you spend 10 million on Sundin because believe it or not, that would actually put us over the cap. I can’t believe I just typed that. Someone look at my math and tell me what you think, not that I believe we would get Sundin, but we should be able to pay that guy 12 million and still be way under.

By Marty's Mom

July 8, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

Marty is stoopid

By Bob

July 8, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this

I just want to hear your reasons for making that comment

I see sarcasm is lost on you as well, Marty

Have you ever submitted your resume to the ASG or any other hockey club?

We have the perfect storm of inane responses today. This has to be the most inane thing I hear fans say “if you’ve never been a GM, then how can you question him”.

Marty, have you ever booed a player in any sport or questioned his or her ability? Well then if you have, and you don’t want to be a hypocrite, I suggest you look in the mirror and please stop doing that, unless of course you’ve skated for the Rangers, played cornerback for the Cowboys, dunked a ball for the Celtics, or hit a home run for the Yankees.

Or, you could continue to boo that player, as is your right, and understand that saying Have you ever submitted your resume to the ASG or any other hockey club is a pretty ridiculous statement, eh?

By Mark

July 8, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this

What are you people smoking? Whatever it is, I want some? Do you seriously think Sundin would want to sign with the Thrashers? He wants to win a Cup and he reportedly has offers on the table from Montreal, Vancouver and Toronto. Why would he chose to come here when he would have a much better chance at a Cup in Montreal or could play in Toronto where he has played his whole career? No matter what money we offer Sundin, he is not coming here.

By TNT

July 8, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this

It’s pretty sad that all the Thrashers have done since July 1st is sign ONE D-man and lose two of the veteran forewards. Now granted, Captain Hook and Recchi were old, and not the players they were 10 years ago, but they had experience that will be hard to replace with a rookie. Hook was the best we had in the face-off circle, and we have nobody to replace that. Recchi put up more points than 2/3 of the team. I was an optimist last year on opening night that we didn’t lose anything that didn’t get replaced. That feeling went away quick as the season went on. This year I’m a realist. And reality is, if some rookies/prospects don’t step up this Summer, it’s going to be a LONG season. I really hope Bogo can do the job, but reality is, he’s not even 18 yet. Very few D-men make a huge impact their rookie year. Would it even be wise to throw this guy into the NHL with no experience? I guess we’ll at least see some news from Prospect Camp this afternoon, but my outlook for this season isn’t all peaches and cream.

By Marty

July 8, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this

I suggest you look in the mirror and please stop doing that, unless of course you’ve skated for the Rangers, played cornerback for the Cowboys, dunked a ball for the Celtics, or hit a home run for the Yankees.

See Bob, I never said I can skate better than Brian Leetch, cover better than Deion Sanders, dunk higher than Paul Pierce or hit farther than A-Rod. So if I boo or make an observation, it is with the understanding that I am not better than those athletes. You on the other hand said you were smarter than Waddell, I just want to know why you think that. You know what, forget it, you hate Waddell, I’ll hate Waddell and we can both get along then.

Mark, although I do think you are on to something when considering the other offers for Sundin, I was answering Alan’s statement that even if we wanted to pay that 10 to 12 million dollars that we couldn’t. I think even though we only have about 33 million dollars in actual contracts, we are closer to 39 million dollars in committments (if that is a term to use here). Then if you figure in the RW and Nikulin, we couldn’t even afford Sundin if ASG miraculously gave the greenlight to go get him. No crackpipe here, just running the numbers, that’s all. What do you think on the team budget so far?

TNT, if this is all we get, I agree with you 100%. From what I read we may or may not have Nikulin, there are still other guys out there not signed, some RFAs didn’t get offers yet, so I am going to wait and see before going off. To judge the offseason right now is like judging a draft by only looking at the first round. Let’s wait until all the other rounds are done, or in this case, until the roster is completed. Then we can tar and feather. I think too many people are hungry for hockey (good for the market) that they want everything done yesterday. At the very minimum, let’s see on Nikulin. What if Demitra signs tomorrow, he’s actually the guy I liked for the RW from the beginning (yes, better than Rolston, he’s 3 1/2 years younger, I don’t want a 38 year old Rolston 2 years from now being that year’s version of Holik/Zhitnik).

By Brendan

July 8, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this

I thought Nikulin was essentially a done deal? The only holdup was a clause that says something like “Ilya can’t spend more than two weeks in the AHL,” and it was over. How hard would that be to complete? Dollars and cents-wise, I thought I read something in the paper that said that part was resolved. The issue was Nikulin not spending the balance of next season playing for the Chicago Wolves.

By Mark

July 8, 2008 5:51 PM | Link to this

Marty, I am with you on the money. If you plug in Lehtonen ($3.5M?), Bogosian ($850K?), Nikulin ($1.5M?) and anyone else that is left we are probably over $36M which would mean we only have about $5M to get to the Floor … but we still need to get to that Floor and the only way that is happening is through a trade, at this point, for someone’s overpaid leftovers. It’s very sad.

By Marty

July 8, 2008 6:35 PM | Link to this

Mark, we are at 33 million dollars right now. By your numbers, Lehts’ 3.5 takes us to 36.5. Bogo’s 850 thou takes us to 37.4. Nikulin’s 1.5 takes us to 38.9. Don’t forget Boulton. He can be at about 800 thou, but let’s say it is 1.1 million so we are at round numbers. 38.9 plus that 1.1 is our new total. So you are at 40 million right there, and that is the floor. SARAH made a good point about Nikulin being a rookie or regular status. If a rookie, he can get that 1.5 that you put him at which I think is the max. I don’t want to even get into a CBA debate, but I thought he would get 3-4 million, if for no other reason that’s what he is getting in Russia so we would give him equal money here. Some have said he is a stay at home guy and thus not worth that much money, they called it “Hainsey money”. But given our top guys are going to be Enstrom, Hainsey, then maybe Bogo, those are all “Campbell type” players as BRENDAN called them, you know, puck movers. I think a stay at home guy is exactly what the defensive corps needs right now, so in a way I like giving him that money. As long as he is not an Andy Sutton type stay at home guy, I like it. Anyway, the main point of this was that we are already at the 40 million dollar floor as we speak. If my math is off, let me know.

By Tony C.

July 8, 2008 6:41 PM | Link to this

cHRISTENSEN’S NUMBERS ON THE DRAW ARE ACTUALLY BETTER THAN bIG bOB’S IF YOU LOOK AT THE PAST THREE SEASONS ON AVG.

By Tony C.

July 8, 2008 6:44 PM | Link to this

Apologies for the capslok…@ work

By Tony C.

July 8, 2008 6:52 PM | Link to this

Oh and now that the age of the offer sheet is officially “on”…why not just go ahead and make some offers? I mean why not? The available pool of talented RFA centers is waaaay more enticing than the (nearly non-existent) pool of UFA/attractive greybeard list.

By Marty

July 8, 2008 6:52 PM | Link to this

I hate to have an actual hockey conversation here rather than just the normal spew of hating Waddell or name calling. But, I was wondering if they put Christensen as the new 3rd line center to replace Holik or is it Todd White? Thanks TONY C, that stat makes me think it will be Christensen. I am shaky on Little being a #1 guy this year (future years he can be). But if you have him as #1, White as #2, then if Little stumbles, put Perrin there, I think I would rather get a stud RW (which our roster says we need given our glut of centers and only 1 RW). Although I was hoping for Demitra but he is gone now. Just trying to see what can be done rather than argue.

By Tony C.

July 8, 2008 6:57 PM | Link to this

Also Demitra says he wants Vancouver.

By ranallo10

July 8, 2008 7:09 PM | Link to this

As long as he is not an Andy Sutton type stay at home guy, I like it.

Mark — That’s exactly the reason I would be hesitant to offer him more money than Havelid is currently making. Nikulin has never played a game in the NHL. I would think it’s unwise to earmark so much money for a player who could be one of several things: he could either excel, be a serviceable 4th/5th defender, or could possibly underwhelm and go back to Russia. We just don’t know about him, beyond his international experience…which is why I feel it’s risky to put a ton of money ($3M) towards a relatively unknown.

By ranallo10

July 8, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this

Mark — My apologies, I meant to give that response to Marty.

By Marty

July 8, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this

Ranallo10, maybe that 1.5 million dollar is all it is going to be anyway. It’s nice to see that you are making a logical statement before the guy is signed versus complaining about it 2 years later after you have the benefit of seeing his results. I know we look down on the other leagues that are not NHL, but there is plenty to tell in those games. I am going to see if the guy is even signed before I speculate on whether the deal was too much, sort of putting the cart before the horse there. I will buy into the 3 million is too much argument though, but only a little bit.

By Sage of Bluesland

July 8, 2008 7:24 PM | Link to this

I go out of town for a couple of days and I come back to find the pitiful little sheep revolting and have gotten out of their pen!

Oh well, like the old man says, “you can lead sheep to water, but you cannot make them drink”…They’re stubborn that way—and let emotion rule their decisions.

Let them continue to subsidize the incompetence. Their number will dwindle as long as Don Waddell is in charge—I have full faith in that.

By Marty

July 8, 2008 7:31 PM | Link to this

We just signed Stevenson for the prospect camp. This is not training camp, this is the prospect camp, so please don’t cry that this is Kovy’s center. What I think this means is that since he is a minor league player, he will be in Chicago. We need him in Chicago because they need another center. They need another center because Atlanta has serious plans to call up Little full time. Oh yeah, no big deal confusing Marty with Mark.

By Marty

July 8, 2008 7:39 PM | Link to this

Wow, SAGE really added something to this forum that I never read before. I would like to take this opportunity to thank MARK, RANALLO10 and TONY C for actually contributing to a real conversation about Thrashers hockey that was interesting and informative.

By MB

July 8, 2008 8:00 PM | Link to this

You’re right, Sage.

Maybe if you go on another vacation it’ll change by the time you get back.

Make it a long one, just in case.

By Sage of Bluesland

July 8, 2008 8:10 PM | Link to this

Oh, and to answer your question Mike, this current fiasco is BOTH an insult and reality.

What makes me laugh is that the self-annointed ‘real’ fans can’t see something so obvious. But, if you watch closely, many are inserting that they aren’t Waddell fans, either…I didn’t know sheep could flip-flop like that!

Pride comes before the fall…and arrogance and ignorance going hand-in-hand…

By John R.

July 8, 2008 8:20 PM | Link to this

The Thrashers will not be contenders until Waddell is gone. When Kovy leaves, the team will once again be the laughing stock of the NHL. The franchise has been crippled by DW’s acquisitions. Let’s face it, other than ‘06-07, we have been one of the worst teams in the league.

By Marty

July 8, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this

Wow JOHN R. I never heard that before. What? Germany invaded Poland?!?!?!

By -'Cos

July 8, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this

The following excerpt was just released by Scott Burnside of ESPN : “Atlanta Thrashers: A team that figures to be in the John Tavares sweepstakes next summer did little to suggest it won’t be among the worst teams in the NHL. The Thrashers, woefully thin along the blue line (they tied for last in goals allowed per game and were 27th on the penalty kill), added emerging free-agent defenseman Ron Hainsey, although he will be more valuable on the offensive side than in the Thrashers’ own zone. Gone are veterans Holik and Recchi, and the Thrashers bought out the contract of defenseman Alexei Zhitnik, even though GM Don Waddell insisted to the local paper just days before the draft he thought Zhitnik would be an important part of the Thrashers’ future. Although Waddell was reportedly in talks with a number of top free agents, including defenseman Brian Campbell, he couldn’t coax any to buy into the team’s rebuilding plans. Rookie coach John Anderson will have his hands full trying to plug the many holes in this lineup. Trending: Down”

GOD HELP US…

By Tony C.

July 8, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this

HEHEHEHEHEEHEHEH

By Cuz

July 8, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this

This is great that someone posted that Burnside excerpt because I had no idea that we signed Hainsey, cut Zhitnik and didn’t resign Holik and Recchi. I know the coverage in this town is bad, but thank God someone is out there to bring us these important updates. Now tell us who is this John Anderson that they talked about.

By David

July 8, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this

well at least we resigned eric boulton for two years…yippee

By devildog728

July 9, 2008 1:40 AM | Link to this

It’s amazing how posters can cry about how Dan Boyle and others are hating on the Thrashers, while those same posters will make the most disparaging remarks about players like Holik and Zhitnik, who may have sucked while here, but have had long and generally pretty good careers.

The comparison between Atlanta and Tampa holds no water for one simple reason: Tampa has won a Cup in recent history, while Atlanta hasn’t so much as won a playoff game in its existence.

Comments?

By J

July 9, 2008 2:12 AM | Link to this

Atlanta is not the ideal choice. Len Barrie is an a*, and going to Atlanta won’t solve anything. Atlanta might as well have been bought by Oren Koules, and run by Len Barrie. What a joke. Can’t afford to keep Boyle, but are willing to sign about 6 mil in “Veteran Leadership” this year. Len BArrie is Mike Keanes buddy, Melrose is Keane and Barries buddy, Recchi is Barries buddy, Roberts is Barries buddy, Melrose is Koulas’ buddy, so on and so forth. This “Clique” is going to come back to bite them in the a*.

By Tony C.

July 9, 2008 6:06 AM | Link to this

Yeah they are loading up on Western Canookian types.

By Hockeyman3944

July 9, 2008 8:52 AM | Link to this

Hey, the Thrashers haven’t done one thing…oops…they did one thing, signing a defenseman…pretty big time name…um, what’s his name again? C’mon folks, Dum Fraudell hasn’t made any attempt to get anyone in here. Why? Like Boyle said, who would want to come here, with this bunch of losers he has assembled. Kovy is all but gone and Donny boy is wringing his hands, if he can find them, about signing Eric Boulton! I get so P.O.’d when I watch the signings of other teams, hoping that I might see a glimmer of hope, but Dum and the gang sit back and collect their paychecks. Hear this Thrashers front office? It’s the sound of me ripping up the ticket invoice for this year. You’ve made NO F’n attempt at putting even a semblance of a winner together, you don’t care, so why in the hell should I? ASG/Fraudell, you make me puke! You had this city eating out of your hand, now there’s just crumbs left…sorry sorry state of affairs….

By Hockeyman3944

July 9, 2008 8:57 AM | Link to this

Oh yeah..one more thing…let’s do something really brilliant Dum, and trade Bogosian to the Flyers like we did with Coburn for an over the hill player and a used puck bag. Hmm lets see, Coburn played over 20 minutes a game IN THE PLAYOFFS and we all watched it from our sofas. Another astounding move by Fraudell..what a complete idiot!!

By Denny

July 9, 2008 9:22 AM | Link to this

There is one viable free agent that could still be a high risk-high reward FA signing - to quote the Hodkey News Ladislav Nagy, C – A couple years ago, it looked like he was on the verge of stardom in Phoenix. He’s only 28 and might be the most skilled forward available. The down side? Questions about his desire and a frustrating propensity for injury. COMMENTS?

By Alan

July 9, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this

Denny - I say go for it. What have we got to lose, at this point?

By MB

July 9, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this

So, say D-Wadd isn’t able to pull off any other moves of note this off-season, other than the re-signing of a Boulton or bringing aboard a Junior Lessard.

Do you think that would be the final straw?

Though I like the Hainsey signing and would be very happy to see Nikulin here, not even the ASG could claim that those moves equate to the major moves promised.

Would they be forced to send the Wadd packing?

Just looking for a silver lining here.

By Alan

July 9, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this

I think it would take a major fan uprising to force the hands of the owners, MB, not failed promises. As we can see, there have been years of failed promises with no accountability from the front office.

For change to occur, it must be forced. Therefore, we as fans must cause change to occur.

By Ga Hockey

July 9, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this

I’ve got the perfect way to make this a winning season. I’ll get myself deployed with the US Navy to Kuwait. I was deployed the one season the Thrashers made it to the playoffs and they were knocked out 1 day after I got back. This time I won’t be back till July, so that should be enough time for them to win The Cup and shut up all the haters.

By MB

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

While I don’t know if it would be considered a major fan uprising, Alan, if the reports of a 40% decrease in season ticket renewals is close to accurate, and if a large number of those customers told their ticket reps they weren’t re-signing unless major moves were made, and if those same former STHs say they’re not re-upping because of DW and the broken promises when their reps call back in the coming weeks, then might that prompt action?

Sounds like a lot of ifs, but it’s a fairly logical sequence of events. The biggest if, and the greatest unknown, is the number of customers we’re talking about.

The scenario I forgot about, though, is the one where DW has already signed a 3-year extension and the possibility of him being “pushed” upstairs while a new GM or hockey operations guy is brought in.

Starting to make my head hurt.

By Ga Hockey

July 9, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this

And just let me add a few things. I’ve been a fan since day 1. I literally had Thrashers stuff within a week of the primary logo being introduced, which was a interesting considering I was stationed in Southern Georgia at the time, and even the local georgians thought the Thrashers were a new Minor League team. I’ve been more true blue to the team than the ASG or Waddell. And if you go to the “Fans on the Road” section of the Thrashers Homepage you’ll find a picture of me in a Thrashers jersey in my desert camouflage uniform. While I am away, if you guys can do me the favor of chanting “Fire Waddell” till it happens, I would be very appreciative.

By Ga Hockey

July 9, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this

And just let me add a few things. I’ve been a fan since day 1. I literally had Thrashers stuff within a week of the primary logo being introduced, which was a interesting considering I was stationed in Southern Georgia at the time, and even the local georgians thought the Thrashers were a new Minor League team. I’ve been more true blue to the team than the ASG or Waddell. And if you go to the “Fans on the Road” section of the Thrashers Homepage you’ll find a picture of me in a Thrashers jersey in my desert camouflage uniform. While I am away, if you guys can do me the favor of chanting “Fire Waddell” till it happens, I would be very appreciative.

By Alan

July 9, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this

MB - It might, sure. If not, there’s those orange shirts being made. I forgot the details on them, but I think Tony C. is the one making them.

I want one, by the way. If Waddell isn’t fired, and If enough of us make a big enough stink at the games about Waddell, perhaps that could assist in the “forward momentum of change”.

By Bob

July 9, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this

Sounds like a lot of ifs, but it’s a fairly logical sequence of events. The biggest if, and the greatest unknown, is the number of customers we’re talking about

Word I’ve heard is that 40% non-renewals is where they’re at. I think they hear us loud and clear, let’s see what they do but like you said, the rumor also is that they signed him to an extension after he fired Hartley and club went 11-4 or something like that. Doh.

Nagy? Why not.

I saw some film on Bogosian on the Channel 2 news last night, he looks real smooth and polished. Anyone see him in person?

By Bob

July 9, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

And if you go to the “Fans on the Road” section of the Thrashers Homepage you’ll find a picture of me in a Thrashers jersey in my desert camouflage uniform

I’ve seen that, ooh rah to you my good man and thank you very much from myself and my family for your service. Seriously, thanks!

By Russ

July 9, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this

Ga Hockey - Thanks for your service.

By Your Mom

July 9, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this

This franchise has gone to Sht since the new owners took over and it has continued to stnk like @$$ year after year. Bettman needs to do something to save a franchise when P*SS POOR ownership does NOTHING but tank the team just to save to make a buck.

By Marty

July 9, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this

MB & ALAN: I don’t think that scenario will pan out. Reason being is that we know Waddell is at least signed on for this year. Now if they didn’t pay for a coach for last year, why would they pay for an extra GM for this year? Now if they aren’t going to pay for a new GM, what’s the point of firing Waddell? The other thing to look at is what if those are the only signings, but the team takes off? Even last year they were fighting for 1st place in Feb before they took the dive, I think it started with a game against the Hurricanes. But what if we only get Hainsey (I’m not counting Boulton, he RESIGNED, not a new addition) and the team gets the 8th spot? Not exactly a down year considering this franchise. I know people don’t want to hear that here, but I am trying to be objective and truthful without letting my own feelings direct my words.

As for the 40% drop in season ticket holders, I wouldn’t believe that. Look, I hate to burst everyone’s bubbles, but we are a tiny majority of Thrashers fans. I have only started posting here recently, but there are only 2 dozen regular posters, of which I bet only half go to games on a regular basis. That’s a drop in the bucket to the 10,000 STHs. Granted 75% of the posters here are disgruntled, they don’t represent the majority. And it is them who are posting this 40% number. Do you honestly think the ASG is giving them that info? It’s sad but it is almost part of a propaganda campaign by 10 guys who have nothing better to do but post the same stuff over and over again. I’ll join a hockey conversation anyday, but this is getting old.

MB & ALAN: as for Waddell getting fired for only getting Hainsey, that is a legit question but let’s stick to facts. I say no way does the ASG fire a GM once the year has started. Given free agency already started, we have already begun.

By NASCAR Dave

July 9, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

Well I guess I was right…

NIKULIN is NOT coming here…

Looks like another LIE they told KNOBLER…

NUFF SAID.

By Bob

July 9, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this

As for the 40% drop in season ticket holders, I wouldn’t believe that

that # came from a source, inside the Spirit. In addition, they had Select a Seat and word is from the fans that went, that there were large sections of seats available, in formerly full sections. Including Section 115 which is the most diehard.

Granted 75% of the posters here are disgruntled, they don’t represent the majority

Uh, yes we do. The vast majority of Thrashers’ fans are disgruntled, you’re simply not in touch if you don’t know that. There are various degrees of how disgruntled we are, but we’e mostly all disgruntled, 40% of season tix holders are disgruntled enough to have given up their season tickets in protest. Others will continue to go to games but bring signs to get the owners to rid themselves of Waddell. Still others are disgruntled and simply blame the owners but give Waddell a pass.

To say that the vast majority of Thrashers’ fans aren’t disgruntled, makes me wonder who you are?

By Marty works for ASG?

July 9, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this

You tell me

By Mistress Jane

July 9, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this

Well, I see DW pulled the trigger..Eric Boulton signed..the NHL just shook with fear. I wonder also if DW will coach the X game against Detroit instead of JA just to feed his ego one more time. You’re a joke!

By Marty

July 9, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this

HAHAHA. The infamous secret “source” that gives Bob all his secret information to spread on the blog here. Yes, 100% of STH are disgruntled a tiny wee bit at least if a Stanley Cup parade is not held on Peachtree. But to say that 40% are not coming back, I would need to here something more than “my secret source told me so”. And no, I don’t work for ASG, but it’s funny how if someone talks hockey without saying they hate Waddell is “the enemy” around here.

By Ray

July 9, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this

GA Hockey: Thank you for your service!

By Marty

July 9, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this

NASCAR Dave: Where did you see that Nikulin is not coming here?

By Sage of Bluesland

July 9, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this

I can’t believe anyone is questioning big Marty’s “facts”…Oh wait, he didn’t provide any…He must believe his silly opinion qualifies as “fact”.

Marty-the-fact-finding-TOOL has entered the building, ladies and gentlemen…

(How old are you, big Marty? Ten is my guess)

By sick of bad hockey

July 9, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this

ASG must be on drugs, first to think Waddell deserves to keep his job then to think that the roster moves will make this team a winner. Everything they say about commitment to winning is bull. As much as we love hockey, we need to vote with our feet—STAY AWAY, don’t buy tickets unless you want more of the same awful product on the ice.

By Wadell's Cousin

July 10, 2008 8:19 AM | Link to this

I know all Thrasher Fans are upset at Dan Boyle’s Comments but come on he was speaking with some emotion something this team doesnt seem to have. This team has done nothing to improve this off season, sigining Hainesy does exactly what? Enstrom will run the power play so at best Hainesy plays beside him on the point and most likely will be a liability at even strength.