Thrashers

By Russian

November 25, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this

Crabb will not play. It means all lines will be same as Columbus game. Does it? Not good. I hope he will change someone, nmove player around and find out perfect scoring combination. We have to shoot pauck more and put pucks into the net.

By Bob

November 25, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this

DirectTV shows the game on 770 tonight, but in standard def. I thought Tuesday night games were blacked out due to the VS national game, anyone know if we’ll get Toronto’s feed tonight?

By B. Thenet

November 25, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this

The Versus blackout is on US based telecasts, so the Leafs broadcast should be up and running.

By Barry

November 25, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this

Wasn’t there a report the other day where Perrin moves up to play with Kovy, Christensen moves down to 3rd line to play with Army and Reasoner, and Thornburn moves down to the 4th line?

By Franky Boy

November 25, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this

Mike: Please send me free tix to a home game. I really don’t want to pay to see crap-on-ice in blue pajamas, but I really am a huge hockey fan!

Say it: Winnipeg Thrashers! I’ll give it 18 months.

By Alan

November 25, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

Say it: Winnipeg Thrashers! I’ll give it 18 months.

What’s the wager? I’m going to enjoy taking your money.

By LAC

November 25, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this

I tend to agree with alan, This team is going to fold. There is NO hope for a winner here and that will be itfor the NHL in Atlanta… Sad to say it.

But the failure to replace waddell and HIS continued STUPID player moves, awful drafts, just lettingstar players walk away for little or nothing, well that says it all.

Then these worthless lying punk owners, The Worst in ALL of pro sports, it is a disaster match…

Le’t get ready for an AHL team in 4-5 years, just sad the way don waddell destroyed NHL hockey in Atlanta, a CAREER loser in every respect, Thanks don YOU $UCK !

By mj

November 25, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the update, Mike.

By Alan

November 25, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this

I don’t think the Thrashers will fold, either. I don’t think they’re solvent, financially, but I don’t think they’re in any position to fold. There are other teams in the league in worse financial shape than Atlanta. Florida is a good example of that. One could also make an argument for the NY Islanders being in a worse financial position, too.

There are major problems here. The cancer is spreading, but it’s not too late to make fixes to guarantee a franchise that will stick around for a good long time.

I’m sure the ASG has noted the crappy attendance figures and all those empty seats. It’s been mentioned on television several times, though none of the opposition’s announcers know enough about the situation here to figure it out.

Now… whether the ASG bothers to do anything about the lousy situation here is another matter entirely.

By Sam

November 25, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this

The Thrashers can help the situation by giving it their all for 60 minutes. No more excuses. Play their hearts out every game. There is talent there that shines through at times.

By Mike Knobler

November 25, 2008 6:29 PM | Link to this

Barry Yes. You’ve got it.

By Shannon

November 25, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this

Mike, how is Kari? We haven’t had an update in a while. Is he just resting or is he doing any kind of treatment? How are his spirits? I can only imagine he is a little concerned with the excellent play by Pavalec.

By NASCAR Dave

November 25, 2008 6:50 PM | Link to this

I’m glad to see so many of you now saying what I have been saying all season… The Dead Weight MUST GO. This includes SLATER/PERRIN/and CHRISTENA… LEHTS cannot be moved due to injury, so if you trade a Goalie, it’s Moose. He is a capable backup with another year left on his contract… I wouldn’t mind seeing BOULTON or THORBURN get traded either… Let’s see what HOFFMAN is all about…

By Sara

November 25, 2008 6:51 PM | Link to this

I think the League would step in before allowing the team to simply fold. Bettman really wants hockey to succeed in non-traditional markets and Atlanta is a HUGE market overall. The reality from a business standpoint needs to be figuring out if a hockey franchise is sustainable were it actually successful on the ice. If this team is play-off bound every season, with a Championship thrown in on occassion, ticket sales are going to be high. Now the sad reality could be that even if the team sold out every single game it might still not turn a profit. That is the point to me where a market in and of itself is truly unsustainable. However that is also supposed to be the benefit of having the Thrashers bundled with the Hawks and the arena. The arena should certainly be profitable in and of itself. The Hawks, if successful on the court, should also be very profitable. Atlanta is a good market for basketball and the TV revenues in the NBA are much higher than for the NHL. If both of those entities drew respectable profits, it should be enough to cover losses on the Thrashers side - especially if those losses are minimalized by high amounts of ticket revenue.

The caveat to all of that is of course to have winning franchises on both accounts and you have to invest money to make money. And investing money for one or two seasons isn’t enough. I personally don’t think Atlanta Spirit thought this through beyond one or two years. Perhaps they thought they could throw money at it the first two seasons and somehow turn both franchises 180 degrees. Whoops!! And now we have at least one owner testifying in court he can no longer sustain his capital contributions and one wonders at the fiscal health of the other 5 still in play (I have no idea if Belkin is still being asked to contribute capital to the teams at this point). Which means there will be no more funds to improve the roster.

Personally, if it were me and I owned both franchises, I’d invest most of my resources at this point into getting the Hawks turned around (which they may well be at this point). That’s the money maker. Then once that team generates excess cash flow, funnel it into the Thrashers.

As for the Spirit … either they need to obtain a new partner with available liquid resources or they need to step out of the picture and sell to someone else in a better position to handle it.

Anyone wanna chip in for some lottery tickets? :p

By Unleash the Fury

November 25, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this

Someone get Arthur Blank on the phone ;)

By Tom

November 25, 2008 7:55 PM | Link to this

Thrashers came out shooting tonight, every opportunity. I am happy.

Army just scored 1-0.

By Tom

November 25, 2008 8:16 PM | Link to this

X just did a moron move. Killing a penalty got stuck in no mans land and fell down. I wonder if Schnieder taught him that one.

An amazing save by Moose at the end of the first on the breakaway caused by X. Pure Top 10 plays of the week play. At the end of the first 1-0

By BG33Brown

November 25, 2008 8:25 PM | Link to this

Exelby just tripped over his own feet (he looked like Vishneski) Hedberg made the save of the season so far for the Thrashers on a 2-1.

I thought that made have been one of our best periods all year. Cujo robbed us a few times.

By BG33Brown

November 25, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this

Oh and Kovy took a break away and tried to break Cujo’s chest bone with the shot. No luck and no goal.

It looked like what I would expect Slater or Pascal Dupuis to do.

By Tom

November 25, 2008 8:36 PM | Link to this

Early 2nd period, we stopped shooting. Instead it looks like we are trying to stickhandle. Nothing good ever comes out of that.

By Tom

November 25, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this

White from a beautiful pass by Kozlov.

Thrashers up 2-0.

By Tom

November 25, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this

X Just got his best hit in for the year so far on Haggman. I like how the Leafs have lots of cameras and different angles.

By Mike Knobler

November 25, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this

Shannon Kari is not on this trip, and I haven’t had the opportunity to speak with him in a while. I’m told he is getting treatment.. The word I’ve been given is they never thought he’d be out this long, and that neither did he, but that instead of a slow but steady improvement he had improvement and then a setback. That setback was a while back. There have been no predictions on a return date since then.

By Tom

November 25, 2008 8:47 PM | Link to this

X gets butt kicked in a fight, but the Thrashers get a goal from in front of the net. Am I dreaming???

Thornburn from Slater. 3-0

Leafs answer right away. Andropov off Havlid skate. 3-1

By Tom

November 25, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this

Ilya quiets the crowd with a hustling power play goal. He was all over the ice that shift.

Thrashers 4-1

By Tom

November 25, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this

Ilya gets the Bobby Orr Hat Trick. Goal, Assist, and a Fight.

Refs jumped in a bit too quickly, Ilya wanted some back after being run before and then getting 2 minors with White.

2nd period over, Thrashers up 4-1

By Stevo

November 25, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this

Tom, Kovy still needs an assist for the Gordie Howe hat trick. Glad to see he is willing to stick up for himself if nobody else on the team will.

By Tom

November 25, 2008 9:31 PM | Link to this

Oops. 2 errors , it was a Gordie Howe hat trick, not Bobby Orr.. and he does not have the assist yet. Thought he had one early.

By Tom

November 25, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this

We forgot to play defense, as the Leaf annoucers said, there was a parting of the waves.

Thrashers 4-2

Little made a nice drive just before.

By Tom

November 25, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this

Boy we are hitting tonight.

Schnieder scores a softie on a 2-1 during a 4 on 4.

Thrashers 5-2

By Hotrod

November 25, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this

I hope this team shows up for the Caps.

Nice and fisty while scoring!

Keep it up Thrashers!

Send Bolts out to do mop up with 30 seconds to go.

By stendec

November 25, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this

Barring a collapse of monumental proportions it appears that the losing streak is over. Thank God! Ilya Kovalchuk played like, well, the vintage Ilya Kovalchuk of old. Moose was adequate in net but had an abundance of offensive support. The Loafs ARE the NHL equivalent of the NFL Detroit Lions but, hey, a win is a win is a win. Thrashers are not picky! Right? From a totally horrible performance to a passable one. Who are the REAL Thrashers? Will they PLEASE stand up? Squa tront! By the way, Pavs next. PLEASE!

By LAC

November 25, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this

Winning and a Commitment to Winning is all any professional sports team needs.

Look at the Falcons, what a turn around.

The Thrashers need a turn around, a positive outlook and Fresh Face.

This team is too up and too down too often.

The game tonight was Great, but the Columbus game was awful. Hard to figure…

A fresh outlook… aka NEW GM, would be a start.That issue really needs to be addressed ASAP, our mental outlook is that of an expansion team, we need the outlook of a Winner.

However with a career loser as GM, we will be a step behind until he is gone.

But solid game tonight, all around GOOD effort, I just hope we show up Wednesday night in DC…

By Sara

November 25, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this

Holy cow what a game!!! We got at least one goal from each line plus one from the D and man oh man the hitting! The last graphic I saw had the Thrash out-hitting the Leafs 25-13 and that was with about 5 or 6 minutes left. Anderson asked for greasy - I’d say he got it! Reminds me of the Calgary game from last year. Now if the team would just play like that for 82 games a season, they’d be playing more than just 82.

The PK was amazing - they almost O-fered one of the best PP units in the League. PP still needs some work though. A few too many penalties overall but some of them were justified, especially Kovy’s fighting major. I’d beat the tar out of a guy if he tried to take my head off too. I’m almost surprised the game didn’t get uglier, especially after Army darn near took off Blake’s head.

A few other random observations. This is the first time I can remember watching TO’s feed and it was awesome. I want those guys for every game I watch. They were by far the most knowledgable non-local announcers regarding our team that I’ve ever heard. They weren’t homers either or arrogant. And totally in touch with the bench as well - they knew what was going on almost instantly. Throw in a couple of dry yet very witty one-liners and it was a good time.

They also mentioned having a chat with Waddell regarding, among other things, Bogosian. Apparently he can be sent to Chicago for two weeks on a rehab stint so that’s where he’ll head when he gets back, which should also be in two weeks. Waddell also reaffirmed he has zero intentions of sending him back to the Pete’s this season. Wonder who is going to lose their roster spot…it sure shouldn’t be Oystrick cause he’s been great.

And stendec Pavs is supposed to get the start tomorrow night versus the Caps. All I can say is I hope the guys didn’t play so physically they are totally worn out tomorrow. As much as I LOVE whooping on the Leafs, we need the points more against Washington. Hopefully the win tonight will keep them fired up through tomorrow.

By Brendan

November 25, 2008 10:40 PM | Link to this

What a game in Toronto! I have not seen the Thrashers play this physical in quite some time. A Kovy fight! An Exelby fight! Colby Armstrong laying out Blake. Someone else tagged Grabovsky, or whatever his name is. Hedberg played well! The PP Unit had a goal tonight.

What is it about Toronto that brings out the beasts in us? The most stunning thing, Thorburn, from Boulton and Slater. Does that line even make $2 million, combined? Two goals from Todd White. Kovy got his 7th. Wow, he’s only on pace for about 30 goals right now. He’ll pick it up.

Toronto broadcasters said that Don Waddell informed them that Zach Bogosian would not be returning to his Peterboro Juniors team, but rather, would stay in the NHL all year long. They also indicated that, in a rare situation, an 18-year old is being allowed to play in Chicago (AHL) for two weeks to rehab his injury. Niiice.

By stendec is on crack

November 25, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this

Moose was adequate in net but had an abundance of offensive support.

Moose was AWESOME.

stendec you are an idiot of epic proportion.

By Brendan

November 25, 2008 10:51 PM | Link to this

The “On the Fly” boys, Craig Button and Dave Reid went on the offensive, saying Colby Armstrong should be suspended for the hit on Blake. Craig Button led the charge, while Reid basically stayed out of it, aside from nodding, that Colby Armstrong left his feet to make a high head hit on a player without the puck. Button went on to call Armstrong “A repeat offender, who targets weakened players.” Geez, whatever, Craig. Get over it. It was “bad loss” to a weak team in the Southeast Division, on home ice. Deal with it, Toronto media. For the record, I thought it was a pretty clean hit on a player who didn’t keep his head up. If it were Blake making that hit on Kovalchuk, or even Armstrong, they would have said, “In this league, you keep your head up or face the consequences.” And ya know it.

Dave Reid got a jab in against Atlanta, saying that Kovalchuk doesn’t feel like he’s being protected, so he had to take it upon himself to initiate a fight with Ian White. It was White’s 1st-ever fight, they said. It was more of a wrestling match than a fight.

By Steely Dan

November 25, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this

stenDICK, you are even an a*******wipe when the Thrashers win.

Moron!

Just because your mommy still makes you wear that hockey helmet when you go out doesn’t mean you know anything about the sport of hockey!

Now, SIT THE HELL DOWN AND SHUT THE HELL UP!!

By stendec is Dave Reid

November 25, 2008 11:06 PM | Link to this

That says it all

By Mike Knobler

November 25, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this

That’s the best game I’ve seen the Thrashers play this season, all-around, no bad period, scoring from all over the place, hitting from all over the place, energy from all over the place.

By Brendan

November 25, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this

Dave Reid has now backtracked on the Colby Armstrong hit, saying it was size differential, not a leap into the air, on the hit on Blake. It was his partner, Craig Button, who not 10 minutes earlier, was screaming for an Armstrong suspension. Wow, that turned fast. The replays show Armstrong did nothing wrong. He neither intentionally went after Blake’s head, nor left his feet, to make that hit. Armstrong went airborn because Blake tried to duck the hit and Armstrong went over him.

By Thrashy Thrashy

November 25, 2008 11:14 PM | Link to this

One gets the feeling that the boys didn’t want to embarrass Johnny Rotten in his coaching debut against his old team.

By Tom

November 25, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this

The morons at NHL on the Fly are calling for Armstrongs head on his hit on Blake.

Blake comes through the middle with his head down going for the puck and he gets whacked. Even the Leafs announcers said it was a stupid move by him.

Then the NHL on the Fly boys come in and say that Colin Campbell should have his head. If a Leaf is touched the hammer should fall in these guys minds, while anyone else can get hit all day. How about Whites hit on the head of Kolvachuk into the boards or the hit on Little.

Those do not even exist.

Partisan morons. If they are going to do a national show they need to leave their Molson jackets off the set.

By Smitty

November 25, 2008 11:33 PM | Link to this

The guys on the NHL Network did change their tune on the Blake hit. The announcers on the game said Blake had his head down. Funny how nobody mentioned the elbow to Little’s head or White boarding Kovy before their fight. I tthought the officials should have let White and Kovy duke it out a little longer.

By Brendan

November 25, 2008 11:40 PM | Link to this

Mike Knobler, regarding your 11:07PM post, I completely agree. This was a great game to watch. So much passion. So much fight. Lots of goal scoring. I loved it!

Now, admittedly, I really liked “Opening Night” against Washington, when the T-birds scored something like seven goals in a route. I’m sure the Capitals haven’t forgotten that. When do we face the Caps next?

By Chris

November 26, 2008 12:03 AM | Link to this

We have the Caps tomorrow night. Should be a good one if we come out with the energy and effort we had tonight!

Out of all the games NOT to be televised locally…this was EASILY the best all-around effort I’ve seen from the Thrashers all season (including opening night)

By shaker

November 26, 2008 12:10 AM | Link to this

The Thrashers played a complete game tonight buy one thing that is disturbing is Kovy having to fight. Kovy should not have to fight He should not have to protect himself or anyone else. Where was Boulton, getting a happy meal at McDonalds? When guys like Kovalchuk and Exelby have to fight that tells me that this team lacks the muscle to protect its top scorers. What if Kovalchuk gets hurt fighting? Is the fight worth losing him? It was Exelby’s second fight in the past few games. Are they now the Thrashers enforcers? The physical style of play from all the guys is great and it does show that when they play an agressive style of play the are a better team but leave the punches to someone who is there for that purpose. Let Kovalchuk skate and do the scoring and let someone else do the fighting. Get someone who can get the job done when it comes to protecting our better players. Boulton is not the answer. The Thrashers need someone who can throw his weight (and punches) around with authority. Can any remember the last time Boulton was successful challenging a true heavyweight? Tonight’s game showed what the Thrashers can do when they are physical the problem is it’s the wrong guys dishing out the punishment.

By Brendan

November 26, 2008 12:15 AM | Link to this

Chris, both those games have some commonality in that they were games that had purpose for John Anderson, personally. In tonight’s game, it was JA’s return to Toronto, where he played. On “Opening Night,” he was facing his friend, Bruce Boudreau, and it was his NHL-debut. So, there was some added incentive to win those games.

Like you, I hope the intensity will continue.

By Jason

November 26, 2008 12:20 AM | Link to this

Glad to hear Button and Dave Reid retracted their assessment of the Armstrong hit. I said on Rawhide’s blog that maybe it was a little questionable, based on what the league has been doing to “grey area” style hits this year. I could see them fine him or sit him down for a game, if they want to base the hit over Armstrong’s career incidents. Just on this game alone, I don’t see anything happening.

On another note- The Leafs broadcast team said Armstrong was mentioning how much fun it was to be in an electric atmosphere for a change, and how he really missed that feeling in Pittsburg. That stings a little because that’s about the fourth or fifth time he has said something along those lines. I don’t blame him for feeling that way, but F* him for constantly saying that in the media, instead of being part of the solution here to change the perception. When/IF this team and organization ever start to figure out how to win and become a consistant and legit contender, THIS CITY WILL CONSISTANLY SUPPORT THEM!!!!! Armstrong you Awipe!!!!!!!

How the hell can Armstrong make a recurring statement like that to the Toronto media after the minor league effort YOU and your teammates put out in front of a pretty good home crowd this past Saturday night against Columbus? When Armstrong starts stepping up his own game and putting in full effort every game, he can start talking that crap.

I’ve bought four pricy seats to the Columbus and Minnesota games so far this year, and all my group witnessed was high priced crap. And its’ the fans fault for not wanting to bring an “atmosphere” to home games? This team needs some serious mental direction, and new ownership for Christmas!

By Mike Knobler

November 26, 2008 12:26 AM | Link to this

Brendan and Chris You might conclude from the way the Thrashers played in the most important games for their coach that he has inspired a lot of loyalty in the room. They’ve had three three-goal victories, and two of them have come in those games. I’d say this was a better performance than the opener, which included some soft goals allowed by Jose Theodore, some good breaks for the Thrashers and some defensive issues. The team looked much more consistent tonight.

By Mike Knobler

November 26, 2008 12:35 AM | Link to this

Jason I didn’t hear what Colby said to the Toronto media, but it probably wasn’t meant the way you took it. The players love coming to Toronto — and Canada, in general — because they love it when their sport is the big news. That’s simply not the case in most of the U.S. markets, maybe any of the U.S. markets outside of Detroit and Buffalo and maybe Pittsburgh once the Steelers are done. In Atlanta, at practice or a skate, they might see one TV camera in a week, none in some weeks. Here, I counted five in the room this morning. I spoke with Erik Christensen about it, and his eyes lit up as he told me something to the effect of, “Hockey is a great game and this is how it should be treated.”

By Brendan

November 26, 2008 1:41 AM | Link to this

I think that’s exactly right, Mike Knobler. John Anderson has inspired some loyalty in the room. Tonight’s game probably was the best, most well-rounded performance by the T-birds all season long. Jose Theodore had a terrible debut back on Opening Night.

Although … and I’m hesitant to mention it, but John Anderson’s NATIONWIDE TV DEBUT was a horrendous outing versus the Flyers, on VERSUS. John Anderson was interviewed in that game by Christine Simpson, and it was clear that he was very proud to be behind an NHL bench, being interviewed during a pause in the live action. From just about that moment on, it all went south. And quickly. By the game’s conclusion, the Versus crew, consisting of Bill Clement, Keith Jones, and Brian Engblom, opined and advanced that “no coach can probably make this roster win.” And they continued, “That’s rough, on a 1st-time NHL coach, finally getting his big break.”

I’m sure the Thrasher players felt badly about that game. There was plenty of blame to spread around from that debacle. Let’s not forget that 2-3 Flyer goals went in off skates, and other “fluky” type situations. And when that happens, a game can quickly spiral out of control.

But still, this is a “consistency” issue, which Terence Moore just wrote about in his article, “Thrashers have no identity.” Of course, Jeff Schultz has been saying the Thrashers have no identity and no consistency since 2002. And if you ask Jeff Schultz about it, he’s probably “tired” of talking about it, possibly in fear of sounding like a broken record.

By Jason

November 26, 2008 2:00 AM | Link to this

I hear ya, I’m just venting some frustration as a long time fan Mike. My wife and I were both born and raised here in Atlanta, and we have a lot of friends and family that follow the Thrashers passionatly. We all love the game and love the Thrash! I do my part by going to a good number of games, subscribing to Center Ice every year, and traveling to see away games when we can.

I agree with the facts around what nontraditional cities can’t offer versus markets like Detroit and others in the world of hockey. It was just with Armstrong, that was amoung a handful of simmilar comments he’s made in the media since being traded here. I don’t blame the guy for wanting to play for a team in a euphoric enviroment, I would too. But I also would want to feel like I left nothing on the table for the team I represented if I chose to leave for greener pastures. I want all these guys to take it personal about the negative comments the media outside Atlanta make regarding the team and the city, and do everything they can to change it.

It’s more frustration on my part of almost ten years of supporting an organization that has never really done anything to squash the constant criticism of the media and fans around the league that Atlanta doesn’t deserve a team. The last thing I want to hear or read about, as a former season ticket holder and big NHL fan, is someone on the team making comments that do more harm than good in the perception of the Thrashers and their fans.

As for tonight, great game to watch! One of the best over the past two seasons.

By Thrashy Thrashy

November 26, 2008 2:49 AM | Link to this

shaker,

I seem to recall Boults going toe-to-toe with Colton Orr earlier this year. One of the best fights of the year to date.

Boulton vs. Orr

By dhj_1962

November 26, 2008 6:45 AM | Link to this

they looked good, but Kovy needs to stay out of the box, but then again, if it takes a fight to get him to play inspired hockey, then let em have at it!! as far as Armstrongs statements, the thruth hurts.

By EA

November 26, 2008 7:37 AM | Link to this

Some of the entries on this blog do not help the perception of hockey to Atlanta fans or its players. In the beginning of the comments, the team was goind to fold. In the end, nothing but praise. Kovalchuk should fight. He showed some passion. He was smiling and moving around during the national anthems. You could tell he was excited. If the Thrashers help their own cause by giving it their best for 60 minutes, the fans will be on board. When they play well, Don Waddell isn’t a part of the comments.

By ranallo10 (in AT)

November 26, 2008 7:58 AM | Link to this

$20 says Franky Boy is a Maple Leafs fan.

By Keith

November 26, 2008 8:03 AM | Link to this

Jason, I could not agree with you more. I have been thinking and making similar comments for a long time. It is such a slap in the face to the Thrashers loyal fans. We need a captain who promotes this team on and off the ice. We need to see the enthusiam the team brought to Toronto in Atlanta. There is a negative to that kind of hockey hype. Intense media scrutiny. I don’t know if the Thrashers would welcome that with some of the bombs they have played this year. The Columbus game was an embarassment.

Colby Armstrong’s heart is probably still with the Pens. If you follow them, their team is always in the community with their fans. Case and point. My daughter and I went to watch the Pens warm up during the recent Thrashers and Pens game. Hall Gill and Max Talbot both acknowledged the group we were standing with. A thanks for following the team on the road (most of the surrounding people had on Pens sweaters). We were just there to see Sidney Crosby up close. We may not be a hockey town, but there is and has been a loyal following for 10 years despite the frustration the Thrashers have brought to their fans.

By ranallo10 (in AT)

November 26, 2008 8:14 AM | Link to this

There is a benefit to beating Toronto in Toronto…the Thrashers make the front page on TSN!

Really, how often does that happen when the team wins? It rarely happens in Atlanta media outlets, and if it does happen elsewhere it’s usually due to bad news.

By Eileen

November 26, 2008 8:32 AM | Link to this

Mike, I agree Colby Armstrong was not insulting the Atlanta fans. He was commenting on the perception of hockey in most of the U.S. However, that perception could be changed some what in Atlanta if the Thrashers play more games like last night. Wow, I am so glad I was able to watch it on Comcast. It just proves the Thrashers are capabale of great play. Personally, I get so tired of hearing about football in the south. I wish we had more coverage of the team and hockey in general. In my humble opinion, it is the best spectator sport. Thanks Mike for all you do to cover the Thrashers.

By ranallo10 (in AT)

November 26, 2008 8:34 AM | Link to this

Armstrong had his left skate off of the ice, but otherwise it was a clean hit from the three replays I’ve seen. He didn’t vault his body, as Wilson made it sound, he simply followed through on his check. Blake wasn’t paying attention, the puck was relatively loose and next to him (due to a drop pass if I’m not mistaken), so it’s he’s fair game and it’s his own fault.

Also, what type of checks is Wilson referring to when he says it’s not the first time seeing this from Armstrong? In the Columbus game I saw Armstrong go shoulder high and follow through on a Columbus player, but he’s not head hunting or anything like that from what I’ve seen. White’s first check was no more legal than Armstrong’s.

However, the Out Plus idea would mean Armstrong is fined and sitting if Blake misses any games. I don’t like that idea.

As for Kovalchuk vs. White, I liked this quote:

“We have three games against them, so if he has something against me (shrugs), I’m always ready to answer” — Kovalchuk, post game interview.

By Bob

November 26, 2008 8:38 AM | Link to this

Should be a good one if we come out with the energy and effort we had tonight!

Our boys certainly did will one for Coach last night, didn’t they? The problem is that they can win a game here and there just by outwilling the other club, but you can’t keep that pace up over an 82 game season. It’s over the long haul of the season that brings the more talented teams to the top. But it’s sure fun to watch it happen when it does. Bring some more talent to this club and watch what happens.

I found it interesting to hear the Toronto announcers talk about how Coach had to modify his system and rein in the dmen a little from jumping into the play too much. They said that’s what burned the Thrashers early and coach learned to keep the dmen back a bit more, good adjustment by him as that system worked in the AHL, but the NHL has too much talent to expose your d like that.

I too was disappointed to hear Colby’s comments, but really, can you blame him? Think about all of what we’ve heard, if it’s not Hossa ditching us it’s Campbell avoiding us like the plague, or it’s a Tampa player being threatened with banishment to Atlanta if he doesn’t release his no trade. It is what it is.

By dhj_1962

November 26, 2008 8:45 AM | Link to this

what about the elbow to the face TE took, that was intent to injure, 5 games for the clown that did it. Armstrongs hit on blake? was clean, he hit ‘em with his shoulder. Question for Mike Knobler, why don’t the ASG do some promotions featuring the Hawks and the Thrashers together? Has a Hawk ever been to a Thrasher game and visa/versa?

By ranallo10 (in AT)

November 26, 2008 9:07 AM | Link to this

dhj — I think some of the Thrashers players were in Philips Arena during the playoffs last season.

By Jeremy

November 26, 2008 9:15 AM | Link to this

Hey Colby, if you happen to read any comments on this blog, throw us a bone. We are excited to have you in Atlanta. It is obvious why you were a fan favorite in Pittsburgh. You are funny, engaging and goals like last night (along with your hits) really energize this team. The living is good in Atlanta. If we could get an effort like last night out of the Thrashers every game, we might be able to recruit a few new and bring back some old fans to the game.

By B. Thenet

November 26, 2008 9:25 AM | Link to this

Heck of a win against a scrappy Leafs squad. Hopefully they can carry some of that spirit into tonights game.

I know Knobler wants to put a nice spin on it, but I am also getting tired of Armstrong’s obsession with knocking the Atlanta market whenever he gets the chance in other cities. I mean he does understand that we have TVs, Radios, and the internet in Atlanta right?

Sure he has a point, but the few people in this city that are diehard Thrashers fans don’t need to hear one of our own kicking the fans and the town whenever some anti-Southeast hockey goober from the NE and Canada throws a mike in his face.

By Sara

November 26, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this

dhj there were some Hawks players at a Thrasher game a season or two ago (I believe two), they were shown on the JumboTron, and promptly got booed. Course, they still stunk badly that season so the reaction would likely be more pleasant now.

ranallo I have yet to see even a one-line headline on the side bar or under the Sports heading on the home page for ajc.com regarding the Thrashers. How truly pathetic is that? I can understand no big headlines, but not even small by-lines? The one thing I will give them credit for though is good beat coverage. They pony up to send Mike, and his predecessors, to the away games instead of just relying on AP feeds. We get solid reporting from our writers and they have been of solid calibre. I know that ought to be standard newspaper protocol (and most teams get more than just one guy), but it would be awfully easy for them to leave us Thrasher fans totally out in the cold for coverage.

It should pick up here soon though as the college and pro football seasons wind down.

By ranallo10 (in AT)

November 26, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this

B. Thenet — Perhaps it’s because I’m not from Atlanta, but those types of comments from Thrashers players neither surprise me nor overly bother me. I’m not surprised people don’t enjoy their time in Atlanta compared to the other places they could be playing. I’m not surprised that they would enjoy playing for a more passionate fan base (quantity wise) and more dedicated media outlets.

In Canada, Pittsburgh, Detroit, etc…they are rockstars. In Atlanta they are relatively unknowns.

I don’t hold it against them that they’d rather be somewhere else, especially when this particular player didn’t make the decision to play here, but was instead forced to come here via trade.

However, from all accounts Armstrong is a respectable guy who would not toss someone or someplace under the bus at every opportunity. I’m willing to give him the benefit of the doubt that he’s speaking more abstractly about the hockey fans, and more about the people who aren’t attending the games, and the media who isn’t given exposure to the team and the sport.

But if he is complaining about Atlanta, can you really blame him? If I didn’t live in Atlanta, or have any familial history with the city, I wouldn’t desire to play there over many of the current NHL cities. I’m guessing many players feel the same way.

By Sam

November 26, 2008 9:53 AM | Link to this

To add feul to the Colby Armstrong fire … I was sitting among many Penguins fans at the Pens vs. Thrashers game. One of them commented that his Dad (who lives in Pittsburgh) told him Colby still has his house there because he hopes to come back. I have no idea if it is true. I agree that Colby Armstrong and the like need to use the opportunity in the media to promote hockey in Atlanta and it’s loyal Thrasher fans to the media. Perhaps he could make a comment along the lines that if we (the players) gave them a reason to attend the games every night, they would.

By Eileen

November 26, 2008 10:04 AM | Link to this

B Thenet, I have heard comments to the contrary. Slava Kozlov likes it hear because he says you can go to the restaurants and shops without being bothered. That media scrunity in some cities is annyoing at times. I always remember what Andy Sutton said about the weather. He loved it here because he was tired of living with cold weather. I guess it depends on what you want. Also, let’s not forget what a beautiful city we live in. The players have families who certainly appreciate the benefits of living in such a great place.

By dhj_1962

November 26, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this

thanks for the replys, i only wish i lived closer to ATL. i am a sports fanatic. if only the AJC would do their part and support the Thrashers now, not jump on board when/if they start winning, but, i guess with only a few of us on the bandwagon, we got plenty of room.

By B. Thenet

November 26, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this

If Pittsburgh had a team as “successful” as the Thrashers, their attendance would be worse than ours, the one year that they had a really bad team they had a lower yearly attendance than the Thrashers have EVER had.

You want fired up and stadium filled crowds in Atlanta, win more than you lose on a regular basis. Don’t whine about it, do something about it.

By NASCAR Dave

November 26, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this

Good game, but what did PERRIN/SLATER/CHRISTENA contribute??? It’s time to make moves, folks… Sometimes the truth just hurts…

By dhj_1962

November 26, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this

move perrin,slater and ec…mmmmm…..where?

By ranallo10 (in AT)

November 26, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this

dhj — My predicted answer the person in question will give:

“Anywhere! They bring nothing to this team and we should trade them for used practice uniforms if any team would give them up. LOL. Nuff said.”

I haven’t perfected the random capitalization and bold letters yet, maybe that’ll help my future predictions.

By NASCAR Dave

November 26, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this

RANALDO, call me crazy, but I’d rather have LAVALLEE/STUART/HOFFMAN filling those spots… CHRISTENA just flat out SUCKS! Send her elsewhere, her NON-TALENT is NOT Needed here!!!The same applies to “SLATES” SLATER and ERICA PERRIN… Put UP, or get the hell outta here!!!

By ranallo10 (in AT)

November 26, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this

DaAve — I don’t disagree with you regarding bringing up young talent, but in this instance you’re getting rid of slightly more talented players for people that are on the same level or worse than the players you’re replacing.

Stuart is 26, older than Christensen and Slater. He doesn’t have much left to learn and give to this team, beyond what we’ve already seen of him. He’s a third line player at best.

Hoffman is 28, and is only skilled at fighting. He doesn’t HELP this team win games, and his services are less than helpful when the fighting isn’t going on.

Lavallee also has his limits, but is younger than all of the players you mentioned. However, his career potential is that of another 3rd or 4th line winger, possibly second line powerforward type of player if the right line was put together.

I’m personally fine with Slater on the fourth line, Christensen and Perrin on the third or second. None of the players you mentioned can win a faceoff with consistency, yet the three you don’t want all play center, and two are very proficient faceoff takers (Slater and Christensen, Perrin’s not too shabby).

Finally, you’re basing this all on your dislikes for them. You’re not focusing on what they bring to the team, and the players they are possibly blocking with the position on the roster they currently employ.

Slater is a fine low line center, at a fine age (25), and with a very good contract. Christensen is 24, a skill player, and a shootout specialist. In a 2nd or 3rd line capacity, he’s a serviceable player. He’s not an ideal person, but he’s more skilled than Stuart Hoffman and Lavallee. Perrin is the most versatile of the three you mentioned, the most seasoned, and is coming off a ~45 point season. To discard his offensive ability simply because he’s been playing a defensive role is a bad move.

I’m fine with bringing in youth, but not three players on the lines that typically are expected to shut down the opponents top scoring lines. One at a time, maybe, but not all three at once.

Finally, who would take your s** players? If they’re crap in your opinion, why in your opinion would anyone else want them?

By Jason

November 26, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this

Now the guys on NHL Live are promoting us negatively(no suprise mind you). Clement(a former Atl Flame I believe) and Lagreica are saying how sorry they feel for Atlanta fans because it’s a foregone conclusion Kovy will leave this team. Based on what? Just their gut telling them the team is going nowhere. That’s their jab at the ownership and Waddell more than the team I believe.

By pierre chalifoux

November 26, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this

EA, c’est parce que tous les Hillbillies stupide dans les pays du Sud ne savent rien de ce sport de hockey sur glace. C’est la raison pour laquelle la Ligue étape et de saisir leur équipe. Cette équipe sera de passer à Winnipeg. Comment fonctionne le Winnipeg Thrashers son? L’incompétence de Don Waddell a ruiné l’ensemble de l’entreprise sous forme début tout le chemin jusqu’au fond. Ils n’ont aucune compréhension de la pratique du sport ou sur la façon de bien gérer une franchise, il n’a de sens que pour Gary Bettman à l’étape de bande et l’équipe de Atlanta, et à juste titre et à juste titre. Winnipeg Thrashers, il sera, et c’est un fait.

By dhj_1962

November 26, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this

i’ll agree that they aint done much, but i cant see the 3 you mention doing much better. although, i would like to see hoffman up soon, need someone to watch out for Kovy, Little and TE. I seen Bolts fight Orr, what, 3 weeks ago, that is what Atl needs, every single game, Bolts might not hold up. as far as clement and most of the hockey “media” they are not high on Atl. because of the talent level..who is at fault there??? Don “the dud” Wadell, Cant blame the owners, they know nothing about hockey, aint that obvious??? wadell is still employed. so what can the players and coach do? play like they played last nite every nite. if they showed some consistency, i’d make the 250 mile drive up to Atl. to help support them.

By dhj_1962

November 26, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this

pierre, shut the f**k up, you retard.

By ranallo10 (in AT)

November 26, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this

dhj — That’s just French. I know it can be confusing at times.

Pierre’s just a little p** off over the whole Ryan O’Byrne incident, so he’s venting on the Southern teams. I wouldn’t be surprised if he copy and pasted the same Winnipeg drivel on the Predators and Panthers fan blogs. After 100 years of existence and still being considered the second or third best team from Canada, people tend to get a little angry. I guess they then vent their frustrations towards the fans of the teams they can rightfully say they are better than.

For what it’s worth, when did Montreal last win a Stanley Cup? How many teams from the US, or the Southeast in particular have won a Cup since Montreal last had one? Or better yet, since a Canadian team in general has won one?

By Bob

November 26, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this

You want fired up and stadium filled crowds in Atlanta, win more than you lose on a regular basis

B. I. N. G. O.

are saying how sorry they feel for Atlanta fans because it’s a foregone conclusion Kovy will leave this team. Based on what? Just their gut telling them the team is going nowhere

Can you blame them? If you look at it objectively, is there a reason to believe that Kovy will re-sign here? When asked about it, he said he was going to play out his contract and then see what’s up. If he wanted to re-sign here, he could do it as early as July 1, 2009. That quote from Kovy didn’t sound too promising to me, and his attitude this year didn’t change it. Sure, he looked great last night in Toronto, but he seems to have an awful lot of that going through the motions like Hoss had last year. Hoss played pretty well last year in his audition for De-Toilet, eh?

By dhj_1962

November 26, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this

he’s still a retard

By Brendan

November 26, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this

Bob, there’s nothing preventing Kovalchuk from grabbing a microphone and saying, “My intent is to re-sign here. But I’m not the GM. Don Waddell is. He, and the organ-I-zation, have to OFFER me a contract for me to evaluate it and sign it. If/When they do, I’ll let you know what I think of their offer.”

I, uhhh, haven’t yet seen that quote from Kovalchuk, however. If I did, I’d be feeling very good about things.

But, in the “arena of ideas,” people are free to both speculate why it’s a foregone conclusion that Kovalchuk is gone … and why they think Kovalchuk will stay, citing … perhaps, that Kovy values his personal privacy and the nice weather and low cost of living that Georgia provides.

Hey, I’ve always said … I’m a FREE SPEECH advocate. People can believe whatever they choose to believe. I think the best posts are the ones that can offer something to back up the opinions or claims that are being presented. I neither laugh at those think Kovy will return nor chide those who think Kovy represents the biggest exodus since Scripture.

At this point, I just root for improvement. But much more than that, I pray for someone to come forth and buy the Thrashers from the Atlanta Spirit, LLC. I do not, for one split second, believe the team will either (1) relocate or (2) fold. That, to me, is crazy talk, stemming from fan frustration over the lack of success and overall direction of the team, since inception. I don’t blame them for voicing that displeasure. But I don’t put any stock in it … AT ALL. The Atlanta market is too lucrative to ignore, if run properly.

If the NHL were step in and run the team, I believe it would improve. I am confident that it would become a playoff team. And that it would be an annual threat to win its division. But it’d take the financial backing of the league and someone “competent” to make the important decisions regarding player personnel, including trades, contracts, draft picks, and waiver claims. And there it is. Discuss.