Thrashers

By Fred

December 1, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

And they are still in Last Place. Dead last.

By Mike Knobler

December 1, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

Also, on one end of the ice they’re practicing the penalty kill with Nathan Oystrick in place of Ron Hainsey. In other words: Reasoner-Perrin-Exelby-Oystrick.

On the other end of the ice, the power play has the Kozlov-White-Little line with Hainsey and Kovalchuk at the point. Slater and Crabb were the penalty killers along with the Swedes, Enstrom and Havelid.

By NASCAR Dave

December 1, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this

Hmmm… So what did CHRISTENA do for us??? What about JENNY SLATER and ERICA PERRIN??? What did they contribute???

NUFF SAID.

By Martin

December 1, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

Sounds.like more Boo-Hoos down at Boo-Hoo Land?Boo-Hooing evrywhere at B00-Hoo Land..Boo HOO !

By Jenny

December 1, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this

NASCAR Dave - You know, generally I enjoy reading your opinion, but seriously? Do we really need to bring the criticism down to that insulting level? Oh! Let’s call them girls names because being a girl is embarrassing. Really? Come on now. It’s bad enough that we have crappy, lazy players. We don’t need to have ignorant, sexist fans too.

By Russian

December 1, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this

I could not say in English. You are not have a words like Russians, but this is move by JA - Полный Пиздец!!! (Polniy Pizdec) :-(

By Bob

December 1, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this

I think this is their way of addressing Kovy’s bout with the illness called Hossa Syndrome

This has been a bit of a bug that has been passed around the Thrashers’ room the past couple of years, it seems to manifest itself mostly in the star players and the malaise is indicated by a lack of effort or caring about the club, a basic playing out the string as it were.

Hoo boy.

By Smoothie

December 1, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this

I realize Kovy hasn’t been playing his best hockey most of the season, but what is the rationale for demoting your best player to the 4th line? Is JA trying to force other teams to risk playing their 4th lines against Kovalchuk so he can create mis-matches on other lines? Plus, what has Reasoner done so horribly to get bumped down a rung?

I guess we can’t look at this move as a demotion until we see how many minutes the Kovy - Reasoner - Thorby line play on Tuesday. At least JA has decided to put a more physical combo on the same line as Kovy so he won’t have to be the only one throwing his weight around in the corners. Then again, it’s not like Kovy is the best forechecker in the league. I’m sure JA is fed up with Williams and Perrin’s inability (in other words lack of size) to create space for Kovy.

By h

December 1, 2008 10:54 AM | Link to this

Give JA credit. He’s trying different things to help right this ship. I hope he figures out a way to make these guys give up their body and check someone….HAs enstrom hit anyone all year? How about Havs? We need to start making people pay for playing in their offensive end. If you stand in front of our net, you better be ready to get your head taken off……We just need to be tougher in our defensive end….and it would be nice to see Kovy join in on defense instead of sitting at the Blue Line trying to cherry pick……considering his breakaways lead to a goal about 1-15, I’d rather him join his teammates and play a little D….the PK has gone back to sitting around and watching instead of being agressive and attacking. When the PK atatcks, good things happen. I like Thorburn playing with Kovy…..he crashes the net and makes things happen….can someone explain to me why Boulton keeps playing? What is the point? His spot needs to go to someone else, anyone else. I say bring up Hoffman, let Valabik play a few games and give Ex, Schneider and Enstrom one night off each…..that makes our team alot tougher and stronger…..I want to see some heart, some real heart.

By Bob

December 1, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this

I don’t know a lick of Russian, but I would guess that translates roughly to “horse manure”

It’s a good move, they’re showing Kovy who’s boss (for the next 1 and 1/2 seasons anyway, until next year’s trade deadline).

They’re telling him “you want to mope, Marian, err, Ilya? Then mope on the 4th line, no goals for you! Back of line!”

By Russian

December 1, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this

I see three things for this move.

1. Punishment for Kovy. I do not think so. Kovy can play good or He could not move a finger.

2. Team want to keep Star healthy and trade him for other player very soon. Kari got sick and they could not move him to different team.

3. JA wants to mess with other teams, that they do not know to keep their first line or drop easy players against our 4-th line.

It will be very intersting game on Montreal. I am going to see it.

By GaVaHokie

December 1, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this

Interesting… before the season started, I said they should try Reasoner in the middle (Holik-esque) and Thorburn on the RW (played well in that role at the end of last season)… didn’t expect it to be in a Kovalchuk “demotion” fashion.

Most criticised that Reasoner is too slow to play Center for Kovy.

By MWC

December 1, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this

JA is going to be a great coach in the NHL.

By Brian

December 1, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this

Is Schneider on the ice? He left last game with an upper body injury.

By Tom

December 1, 2008 11:35 AM | Link to this

Well, lets reverse things.

Ilya seems to be the only player on the 1st line to use his body. This may put the pressure on the Penguin boys and Jason to step up or get the hell out the of the way.

Ilya has had no support this season with those bozos and you know Thorburn and Reasoner will go into the corners and mix things up.

It may be the 4th line is the new 2nd line and Christianson, Army, and Williams are given the title to help with trade value. They obviously are not playing to the caliber of a 2nd line in the NHL.

By Javeliner

December 1, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this

They just don’t have enough scoring and talent. That’s Waddell’s fault, not Anderson’s.

By Nikita

December 1, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this

Good for JA. Something tha irritates the hell out of me with regard to Kovy is the idea that he’s too big to be held accountable for his behavior. That’s horseshit, but it was the case last year and it was beginning to look like that earlier this season. You as a coach can’t let that go on — not only does it mean Kovalchuk isn’t producing, but it sets a bad example for the other players.

As for the line combos, in general — i’ve been suggesting Thorbs and Kovy share a line for a while, because Kovy is large but plays slightly soft. He needs a power forward or at least a big, reasonably competent body to free up ice for him. Reasoner I’m very happy with — I don’t think we’ve seen him at his best, but he is already doing well for us. If JA rolls the lines equally, that combo could do very well together. (Reasoner’s not that slow — and honestly, the only person on the roster who is truly as fast as Kovy is Slater.)

My question is: what did Colby Armstrong do to get stuck with Williams and Christensen? That line’s going to get manhandled, but good — let’s hope it’s matched with the most physical D line.

By stendec

December 1, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this

Bravo John Anderson, yes, ANDERSON! Change everything. Replace everyone. Do what Mike Smith did with the cancer-riddled Falcon corpse when he took command. Has worked thus far. When a team is in dead last in everything the last thing which should concern a coach is bruised egos! I have noted and stated in numerous posts the Maryann Hossa attitude of Ilya “Bags Are Packed” Kovalchuk all season. I do not expect him to score every game (would be nice) but I do expect him to put forth a little effort. TRY! **Earn his damn paycheck. He is not the only Thrasher that has quit but he is the highest salaried one to do so. Apologists cannot see the truth but apparently the coach can! Folks thought I was joshing when I suggested a straight-up personnel swap of Thrashers for Wolves. As long as What’s-His-Name has to stay out of Atlanta. I AM DEAD SERIOUS! The youngsters may lose but would play with fire and intensity. The veterans just lose. Just another damn day at the rink to them. How will IK take demotion? A true superstar would take it as a wakeup call. If he pouts, goes deeper into the tank or attempts to solicit sympathy then trade his as+! The last thing this group needs is another prima donna. Know why the coach has selected no captain? Not a damn one has stepped forward to display team leadership capabilities. Sad but true. Have at me apologists!

By Sage of Bluesland

December 1, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this

Kovy will be gone soon enough—he may as well get his house on the market (even if it’s in 1.5 years).

Coach Sunshine will be gone thereafter.

The bumbling idiot of a GM we have will continue to talk of ‘building the right way’…

Wake up, Atlanta. This is the most inept franchise in the city—which is saying something—and in the league.

Why in the world are you WASTING your money on this pitiful product? It’s really insulting, if you are HONEST with yourself and with the facts…

By GAThrash

December 1, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

Not sure what the demotion of Reasoner is, i think he has worked his butt off and done well all year long. He seems to make things happen, is in the right place, and is a solid player. Heck, he is plus 3. He might actually be the right guy for Kovy. He is always in the right position, wins faceoffs, and plays defense.

By docsbro

December 1, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

Give me a break!!! This is a High School coaching move. Kovy should have been Captain from day one and by not making him Captain the coach set the tone from the begining. The bottom line is since Heatly and Savard left they have not gotten anyone to play with Kovy. What a joke…. this team has one star and they have yet to compliment him. Letting Savard get away was a huge mistake that has never been rectified. Get him someone who will feed him the puck and let him go.

I was behind JA until now. Kovy has had streaks like this and it is ALWAYS because he is trying to DO TOO MUCH… This team is pitiful!! I wish they would play Boris…(Does anyone remember how bad Chara was when he came up?). Just let the guy play and learn and at least hit some people in the process.

By Robert

December 1, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this

Remember you let go all the good player.Heatly,Hossa,Savard.Now koby will be next to go.Philip arena will be a empty seat. ha ha ha. the problem is the G.M.fire him.

By stendec

December 1, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this

Hi Sage. Always enjoy your comments. I personally believe the hopeless Hawks are still the most inept franchise in Alanta. Talentless Thrashers overcome by history but are gaining (losing?) ground quickly! Happy holidays wise one.

By me me me

December 1, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this

Oh yeah that’ll get Kovy to stay…and the Thrashers back in the win column. Anderson really think this high school b.s. works in the pros? I agree that Waddell is the crux of the problem, this is no way to run a franchise, period.

By Nikita

December 1, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this

Not a damn one has stepped forward to display team leadership capabilities. Sad but true. Have at me apologists!

No thanks. But IMO John Anderson picked the wrong As.

As it is, we have: Armstrong, Schneider, Havelid, Kozlov, Kovalchuk. Obviously Havelid and Kozlov aren’t going to be captain, because they don’t have the promo skills and they’ve both said it would be wrong for them to have it. They make great As, though. Armstrong, well, I think he embodies sufficient leadership qualities to be an A — but he’s not put up the numbers or advanced sufficiently up the lines to be the C, and he’s too young. Kovalchuk is sufficiently talented, but sucks at promo and has been both sandbagging and pitching fits all season. No C for him. And Schneider’s not working out, plus isn’t obligated to be here for long.

I think Anderson needs to take the A from Schneider and give it to Hainsey. He should probably put Army’s A on Eric Perrin, too. Though I think if he’d simply put Perrin and Army together, Army would do much better.

By stendec

December 1, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this

I wish to ask two questions of Ilya Kovalchuk apologists:

**Has he put forth the on-ice effort of past seasons?

What has he done this season to earn honor of being named team captain.**

Please be honest.

By stendec

December 1, 2008 12:20 PM | Link to this

Sorry, just have to say this, too. I respect and admire Falcon Matthew Ryan. He is a fiery competitor who does not take losing graciously! He is not perfect and will misfire on passes from time to time. However, if he failed on the gridiron as consistently as Ilya Kovalchuk fails to bury shots into open nets then I would be in the forefront to bench him. No excuses. IK practices (or should) daily. True superstars do not miss by micrometers or clang iron on a consistent basis. Sorry, just had to say a bit more. Man, do I want Thrashers to win! With or without any players recognized outside of Atlanta area.

By Danny

December 1, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this

They need to package Kovy with Moose and get some picks to just start the whole thing over - AGAIN!

By Alan

December 1, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this

Not sure why everyone sees this as a demotion. Yeah, he’s wearing fourth line colors. But don’t for a second think that other teams will play the Kovalchuk line like they would play any other fourth line. The Kovalchuk-Reasoner-Thorburn line will be played like like last years Kovalchuk-Holik-Thorburn line. He might be on the “fourth line” as per the depth chart, but the line will be played against like any other first line.

Drastic times call for drastic measures, and Anderson is none too happy with losing. Good for him. It’s about time someone lit a fire under their asses. It’s probably high time the reins of the team were handed off to a new GM.

By Gregg49

December 1, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this

They just don’t have enough scoring and talent. That’s Waddell’s fault, not Anderson’s.

I told Alan and the others about that months ago, and they scoffed at me. Now I’m laughing at the ones who laughed at me!

By Dagger

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

Just think about how much worse we would be with Letemin out there

By The Joker

December 1, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this

Can we demote Waddell from GM to panhandler?

That’s moving in the right direction.

By R. Stroz

December 1, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this

Although some you would see this as supporting the ASG, I think it is time for a FIRE WADDELL NIGHT.

We should purchase a block of tickets at a discounted rate, bring BULLHORNS and signs, and yell FI-UR WAD-DEll incessantly.

Is anyone up for a vocal protest?

By BN

December 1, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

Atlanta Statistics: 07-08: 23gp 11-12-0 22pts 08-09: 23gp 8-12-3 19pts

Kovalchuk Statistics: 07-08: 23g 19-14-33 08-09: 23g 8-13-21

By truehockeyfan

December 1, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

It’s about time a fire was lit under this team’s AAAAASSSSSSSSSSSSS. How can they look so good at times and look so terrible most of the time. Kudo’s for JA. Kovy acts like a spoiled brat too much of the time. He should watch his countryman Ovecheken, who makes the players around him better. Kovey has a hard shot but often misses the net. He is also the biggest defensive liability on this team. I hope theis wakes kovy up.

By Alan

December 1, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this

You know it, Stroz. Like I said above, drastic times call for drastic measures. It doesn’t just apply to the coaching decisions.

Now, I wonder who we can get to show up? I’ll be there, even if I end up having to walk home from Philips.

By JAMES_ATL

December 1, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this

Maybe it’s a good thing none of these games are on TV?

By Mike Knobler

December 1, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this

Some answers: Mathieu Schneider did not practice today and won’t travel to Montreal and Ottawa but might make the trip to Long Island for Saturday’s game. He has a shoulder injury.

I’ve removed the “fourth line” reference. The Thrashers insist the practice sweater colors don’t mean anything, despite what I’ve seen in the past two months. No offense meant to any player, but clearly the fourth line continues to be the one centered by Jim Slater with Joey Crabb and Eric Boulton as wings, along with Eric Perrin. (I would guess Tuesday night’s scratch comes from this trio, either Boulton or Crabb.) That Perrin is now back on that line doesn’t change the fact that it’s the fourth line, which is too bad for Perrin, who has been playing well if not seeing huge results.

By B. Thenet

December 1, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this

Kovlachuk-Holik-Thorburn was a decent line down the stretch for the Thrashers.

I don’t see why Kovalchuk-Reasoner-Thorburn can’t be. Especially since a big part of the offense appears to be based upon springing wingers…as long as Reasoner and Thorburn can get the puck to Ilya their lack of speed shouldn’t be that big of a deal.

I also like Ilya being on the ice with a guy like Thorburn who can throw his weight around and perhaps create space for Ilya.

By Sage of Bluesland

December 1, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this

The Hawks have passed the Thrashers—by a light year now.

Didn’t they actually make the playoffs last year and WIN A GAME (actually, they won three)…They pushed the eventual Champ to a full seven games and scared them like NO other playoff opposition.

Additionally, the Hawks—despite injuries—have gotten off to a very good start this year.

What have the Thrashers EVER done under Don Waddell? That bumbling, blustering little fraud of a GM has run this team into the ground, literally and figuratively.

The Atlanta Thrashers are undoubtedly the worst franchise in this city—and I would state in the entire NHL. How sad and pathetic! Look in the mirror for half of the CAUSE of this—as for anyone who CONTINUES to subsidize the incompetence…

Please think about that…The owners only hear certain messages. An empty arena is the LOUDEST signal you can send.

By Bob

December 1, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this

The Thrashers insist the practice sweater colors don’t mean anything, despite what I’ve seen in the past two months

Okie Dokie. Question to me is, based on the lines you saw today, who is our checking line (the shutdown line we send out against the other club’s top line)?

I guess since we have 3 road games, the other clubs have last change, so mabye coach is just going to try to roll 4 lines and see what happens, what the heck. But to say the obvious colors they’ve worn don’t mean anything? Yeah, right.

By Mike Knobler

December 1, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

Something to think about: Marty Reasoner spends a lot of time on the penalty kill. For a Kovalchuk-Reasoner-Thorburn line to be effective, the Thrashers have to stay out of the penalty box, or Reasoner will be too winded to have the quality evenhanded minutes needed.

By ranallo10 (in AT)

December 1, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this

It’s probably high time the reins of the team were handed off to a new GM.

(cough cough Steve Yzerman cough)

Re: Kovalchuk/Reasoner/Thorburn — Unless there are three superstars on the roster and Kovalchuk isn’t lined up with a single one of them, he’s the first line by default. He’s going to get plenty of ice time, as he should since he’s hands down the best player on the team. If anything, this is a “wakeup” call to Kovalchuk but a PROMOTION for Reasoner and Thorburn.

Sage — I’m going to ask you a civil question here, I hope you can take the opportunity to give an answer to this question without getting into the usual debate we fall into.

IF you were in charge, and were the person hiring the next Atlanta Thrashers GM, who would qualify for your short list of the GM candidates currently available?

I’m curious the type of GM that is available that you feel would do well, especially in light of the current situation of the franchise as a business, and the franchise as a hockey team.

I give you my word, this will not turn into a “you said so-and-so three years ago” if this person fails…it’s an honest to doG question to see where your opinion lies compared to my own.

And honestly, that question isn’t simply directed towards Sage, I’d like to know anybody’s opinion on who would make a good candidate (feel free to name multiple) for replacing Waddell. The rules are they have to be available or soon will be available, and they have to be people currently in the business (no Stroz, you can’t pick yourself).

Nikita — Christensen and Armstrong have had good chemistry in the past, and have been reported to prefer to play with eachother. Why not try them together? Williams seems to be a square peg thus far (surprisingly so), so perhaps two struggling players and a big body who is on a relative scoring streak could fire them all up. If that fails (give it 2-3 games minimum to click), then I’d replace Williams with Perrin and let the old Perrin-Penguins go at it again.

Right now Little and Kozlov are the most consistent players on the ice, and Kovalchuk is the best talent. I don’t see why we insist on keeping them off the ice at the same time. Send Kovalchuk in with a few grinders, then do a quick/early shift change and let Kozlov and Little come out to join him. I could not honestly care less if they give up goals, because they’re the only three players that have shown they can score consistently on this roster. White has been performing admirably, but thus far I’d say that’s a product of Little and Kozlov excelling, more so than his own doing.

By Brendan

December 1, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

The only name, as a replacement GM, I can think of for where we are as a franchise right now is Kevin Chevaldayoff.

Why?

I’m sure Chevaldayoff understands what the Thrashers finances are. I’m sure he understands John Anderson’s system. And I’m sure he understands that a slowwww build is what is in store for the team until such time as the lawsuit is finally resolved.

I can’t and won’t promise anyone that Chevladayoff is light years ahead of Don Waddell, but he is a candidate who would eagerly accept a GM position in the NHL. Chevaldayoff and Anderson worked together in the AHL with a lot of success. They did so … with Thrasher draft picks. For the most part, anyway.

Discuss.

By GaVaHokie

December 1, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

Had a feeling that might be the case… colors don’t mean anything… thanks for clarifying.

Don’t jump the gun next time. ;-)

By Sage of Bluesland

December 1, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this

I’m NOT going to answer that, as it’s a completely moot question (and prone to the precise thing you state you won’t do).

I’ve responded to this question—which I think is an asinine one—before with my same answer:

I’m NOT the owner of the team. If I were the owner of the franchise, I can assure you I WOULD hire a GM after doing the appropriate research.

I’m not directing any venom at you—some other person keeps asking that question and jumps up on their high-horse when an answer not sufficient to their liking is given. I think the question is a cop-out and an attempt to divert from the main point at hand.

I CAN give you my initial research methods, though. I would hire a panel of hockey ‘experts’ and institute an evaluation process that is consistent and as comprehensive as possible. I would interview all interested candidates at least twice (i.e. not all would be interested in this mess, I’m sure)…and, lo and behold, ‘I’ would make a decision based on the cumulative evidence.

(and, yes, a bit of instinct too…)

The bottom-line: I can’t give a ‘name’ right now because it’s not in my capacity of my current job, which takes up all of my energies as it is. Put me in charge of the Thrashers and the first thing I would do is fire Don Waddell and clear him and his stench out of Thrashersland.

I would then get to the process of replacing him and getting this franchise to where it should be…

Who is it that usually gets their panties in a wad with this question? I think I know—but I’ll let him come forth…if he has the guts…I doubt it, of course…

By Nikita

December 1, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this

Christensen and Armstrong have had good chemistry in the past, and have been reported to prefer to play with eachother. Why not try them together?

Ok with me — but, honestly, I’m starting to think that their previous good play was due to someone who isn’t playing with them in this configuration. Army’s doing o.k. without wondermidget, but EC hasn’t been good in a long time.

Williams seems to be a square peg thus far (surprisingly so), so perhaps two struggling players and a big body who is on a relative scoring streak could fire them all up.

Maybe. I guess it’s worth a try. IMO, Williams does have the talent. I could see him doing well with solid linemates. The problem, though, is that there are two people on that line who aren’t solid right now. Which I’m afraid will just drag Army down.

If that fails (give it 2-3 games minimum to click), then I’d replace Williams with Perrin and let the old Perrin-Penguins go at it again.

Now, this is where I have issues. I want JA to put Perrin where he can excel, and wherever JA is having a problem is not it. I would love to see him back with the Pens. If. if. if. the line will not change two games later when Kovy struggles or the checking line looks wonky. IMO, the line should do well — why wouldn’t it? Even in the darkest days of last year those three did great things together.

And if Williams and EC fail together, what are we going to do with them? Perrin keeps ending up in these wierd slots because of his toughness and versatility — he can take abuse and he plays hard wherever he is. Other than a few mediocre games early on, whatever line he’s on does pretty well. But we have several supposedly more talented players that can’t grind and aren’t producing, and that leave us with no choice but to try to make them work on the 2nd or 3rd while taking the players who CAN grind (Thorburn, Slater, Perrin) and stuffing them down the the 4th. We’ve got to change that — we could pick up more durable upper-mid talent or we could pick up more grinders and sit or trade the weakest of our mid-range. But I’d hate to see the team continually shifting Perrin throughout all lines and duties. And the longer we keep Slater and Thorbs on the 4th playing 6 minutes a game, the less likely they are to mature into solid roster players.

White has been performing admirably, but thus far I’d say that’s a product of Little and Kozlov excelling, more so than his own doing.

I think White remains underrated. he is small and old, and had a bad season last year. But he’s a good two-way player, is reasonably chunky for his age and condition, is very smart, has a generally good work ethic, and has produced very well for most of his career. I’d like to see that line stay as is. Especially since Kovy and Koz don’t play fantastically together. If anything, if I were breaking up the Little White Russian line, I’d put White with Kovy (because Kovy likes White. a lot.) and move someone like Perrin or Reasoner in with Koz/Little. But Koz likes White, and White likes Little, and in general that’s a happy and productive line. Among other things, White and Koz have basically the same temperament and solve problems well together. If it ain’t broke, why fix it?

By Thrashy Thrashy

December 1, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this

If the bums in management would have acquired a big body with good offensive skill to put on the top line with Kovy, I think this team would be in a lot better shape. The Kahlua line is fine, but it should be the #2 scoring line. Kovy needs a bigger guy who can beat people up in front of the net and along the boards. Since this kind of player was not acquired, Kovy either needs his slapshots to find the back of the net or, with a little luck, those shots to bounce off a defender.

This team just doesn’t have the balls to stick their nose in and fight for loose pucks. Waddell is to blame, of course. Anderson’s got to do the best he can with the talent on the roster (“dealt a hand,” indeed). Thorburn will try. That’s the only reason to put him with Kovy. In a perfect world, you’d pair Kovy with a young John LeClair type to fight down low. It sickens me to watch this team stink it up by not playing a manly version of hockey. I know Anderson’s tired of it.

By Christy

December 1, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

Not quite sure why some of you are so upset with the line change.

As noted by a few Thorburn was actually quite good on the RW last year on the Kovy line. Part of the reason, I think was size. That was the biggest line, all three were 6’1” or taller, and all around 220 or so pounds. Same deal with this line. In fact, if they are on the ice at the same time as Hainsey and Exelby I think that would be the first time I would look on the ice and see a Thrasher’s “team” or line combination that would cause worry to opposing teams JUST because of the size factor…

By Nikita

December 1, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this

Christy, you do know that Valabik is skating in Schneider’s place, right? Could be a VERY big line.

By GaVaHokie

December 1, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

I consider Kovalchuk a big guy who is more than capable of standing in front of the net… wanna score more goals? Stop taking low percentage shots! How about Kovy stand in front of the net for a change while White puts the shots on net?

Enough with the perimeter passing and long distance slappers, any goalie worth his weight in salt can stop a 15 foot slap shot… especially from a wide angle… and especially when he knows it’s coming.

Wanna win more games?… stop being so predictable.

By Steely Dan

December 1, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this

This team needs to be shaken up and woken up. Good for JA.

As for you stenDICK, don’t really know if who you’re calling an “apologist”.

Simply because someone calls you out because you mindlessly blame EVERY loss on the goalie like an IDIOT does not make them an “apologist”.

Idiot!

By GaVaHokie

December 1, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this

Wingers are supposed to play around the net, while the playmaking Center finds a way to get it to them… it’s not that hard.

Kovy and Thorburn down low… Reasoner wins face-offs and finds ways to put the puck infront of the net… the Wingers hack away at it… if the puck springs loose, the defensemen and Center dish it back in… the Wingers hack away at it, again.

We have too many “danglers” trying to make the pretty play.

By Sage of Bluesland

December 1, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this

I just listened to Coach Sunshine’s press conference after the Blues loss—and his body language says more than his words ever will.

Funny, this guy was talking about shooting for Stanley Cups prior to the big-boy games—he’s not looking so good now!!!

As with everything related to this organization, a complete and utter joke.

Stop subsidizing the incompetence…

By Christy

December 1, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this

Nikita - yes I know, but honestly, I keep thinking of Valabik as a placeholder until Bogosian gets back, which is still a huge line with him at what, 6’4”

I really want to see that line play and to be honest I was surprised Thorburn wasn’t on a line with Kovy to start the season to at least see how it work out.

By Mo

December 1, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this

How in the world can a hockey fan tell if you have a good goaltender or one of the best forwards in the league if management surrounds two stars with minor league talent? Might as well make Kovalchuk captain, they do not intend to keep him. You tell me what would a line of Kovie Savard and Hossa would play like? If you keep giving up the most goals and take the fewest shots who needs hockey.

By Brendan

December 1, 2008 5:26 PM | Link to this

Sage of Bluesland, does this look familiar:

It’s always easy to tell who the new guy is. He hasn’t lost a game yet. He hasn’t heard a fan lampoon him for his power play. He hasn’t walked through the locker room during a 3-11 January, or had a film session with a fat and overpaid $3 million defenseman, or been lectured by a Teflon-coated general manager who believes the coach is ruining wonderful prospects (who actually aren’t so wonderful). John Anderson is the new guy. He’s easy to pick out of the crowd. He’s happy. He’s excited. He said, “I want the players thinking, ‘We’re gonna go out and freaking win!’”

Recognize it yet? It’s Jeff Schultz, from September 20, 2008, Anderson’s First Obstacle

By Hotrod

December 1, 2008 6:08 PM | Link to this

Good chance for Reasoner and Thornburn to step up.

By jen

December 1, 2008 6:42 PM | Link to this

Rawhide wrote about it in a recent blog regarding the game against the Caps, and I have a vivid memory of literally running Hnalon out of the building. I am in total agreement with R Stotz on the Fire Waddell night. This is not JA, you can’t pin this on a new coach who has been successful at every level, paid his dues and obviously has a system that works. Message needs to be sent and DW’s time is up. I have never called for his head before, and have tried to make sense of this ownership debacle, but its gone on long enough and its time for some fresh blood in the GM seat before every scrap of talent we have bolts for the exits.

By Tony C.

December 1, 2008 6:59 PM | Link to this

He [Coach] started playing Thorburn with #17 on Sunday’s game.

Saw Hainsey leave the ice clutching his hand at the end of the game… anything serious with that Knobes?

I like Thorburn w/#17. I agree with whomever stated that he (#17) should go to the net more.

Team is entirely too passive and for whatever reason, seems content to let the other guys dictacte play and pace.

If they can ever get past that, they might win some gamnes (yes, even with the current roster). I’d like to see some changes made on the roster just to shake the cage a little, but really the one trade that seems inevitable DW won’t do.

But I betcha Rick Nash would be killing it down here.

I think abother reason for the tentativeness in our boys’ game is them waiting on Kovalchuk.

Too many times the puck is slid around the zone while they try to set-up #17 for the shot.

I say put it on net, and let the thoroughbred shows his colors in maiking it go in. As the Great One says:

100% of the shots you DON’T take, DON’T go in.

I’d like to see us come out of Ottowa with a new forward and a win.

GO BLUE !!!

By Sage of Bluesland

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

Yep Brendan, that sure does look familiar…Coach Sunshine…I don’t bother with his name because he won’t be here for the long-term…

I also remember the Spirit ownership stating that they had different expectations for the Thrashers when they first bought the team as compared to the Hawks (i.e. the Thrashers have had more consistency and were ‘further along’ than the Hawks at that point).

My, how things have changed! The Thrashers make the playoffs, lose every single game, and it’s been downhill from that moment.

The Hawks made the playoffs, won a few games, pushed the eventual champs to the limit, made the city proud, and now start the next season where they left off…doing good.

The Thrashers are at the bottom of the conference…again…

When will you stop subsidizing the incompetence? That’s the most important question here. Are you, finally, listening now?

By Justin

December 1, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this

Stendec JA’s system employs a modified left-wing lock. That calls for more defensive responsibility from Ilya Kovalchuk. Obviously, if he has more defensive responsibility, his roaming will be kept to a minimum. He is progressing in his role and, for one of the few times in his career, he has more assists than goals. The simple fact is that the Thrashers need Ilya to be a goal-scoring machine if they hope to compete at any level. That’s why the move to a line with Reasoner and Thorburn makes sense to me. Reasoner and Thorburn are much more defensively responsible than Christensen and Williams, taking a bit off of Kovy, which allows him to be more creative and pick his spots. If anything, this is a demotion of Christensen and Williams, not Kovalchuk.

By stendec

December 2, 2008 12:01 AM | Link to this

WHATEVER THE HELL WORKS! My favorite Atlanta professional team coach is Mike Smith of Falcons for obvious reasons. Bobby Cox of Braves is next. John Anderson of Thrashers is a solid third. Do not know nor do I care who is at helm of hapless Hawks! If Ilya Kovalchuk produces then play him. If he fails to produce then bench him! Treat him like any other player. Keep Pavs in net. Play Moose sparingly. Send What’s-His-Name packing! Too many damn issues! Coach does not need any more to worry about. Has all the problems he can handle right now! KEEP SHAKING THINGS UP COACH. Weed out the quitters. May get down to a half dozen players but so be it!

By Brendan

December 2, 2008 12:19 AM | Link to this

Justin, Christensen and Williams, not to mention Reasoner, are all players who don’t have a contract for next season. On the one hand, that might be a bit demoralizing for them. But on the other, they ought to be playing hard to earn the maximum they can for their next contract.

This organization just has this malaise about it, entirely too reminiscent of the Jimmy Carter Administration, with no offense intended to the Democrats. But if you were alive in the late 1970’s, you perhaps remember gas lines, the “energy crisis,” (turn off that light switch!,) record unemployment, double-digit inflation, 13% mortgages, SNL skits about Gerald Ford falling down the steps, Watergate still being entirely too fresh in your psyche, and the United States being bullied on the International stage, especially by Iran. Think 444 days of Hostages held captive.

Stick with me … I’m going somewhere with this. But then, Miracle on Ice happened. Hockey segue. (And here you thought I was about to start on Reagan tribute!) And hope and faith were somewhat restored to the country. That’s what needs to happen to this franchise. Maybe few people think firing Waddell and hiring Kevin Chevaldayoff is any kind of real solution. Admittedly, I think that’s a bandaid maneuver, but is WORTH TRYING! What if it worked?

Did anyone EXPECT Team USA to defeat the Soviets at Lake Placid, in 1980? Put … your hand … down. They were wiped, 10-3, in the prior meeting. And if Team USA had to play the USSR in a best-of-seven, there’s a decent-enough chance the Soviets would take the series, 4-1. The point is … there has to be a Herb Brooks-like infusion into this organization. That is, someone who ends the malaise and rights the ship. If that’s Chevaldayoff, fine! If it’s someone ELSE, fine! As Jeff Schultz says, and I quote him from last April, “What you don’t do … is NOTHING.”

But that’s precisely what the ownership did, vis-a-vis the GM position. And LAC, I want you to hear this loud and clear. There is never a WRONG TIME to fire Don Waddell. Today. Tomorrow. Next week. Next month. 3AM. Noon. Whenever. Waddell is a GM who more than had his shot. And to fire John Anderson transcends ridiculous, no matter what pittance the AS, LLC is paying him.

But if history is any guide … they’ll retain Waddell, at least through the end of the season. I think the ownership wants to land a “franchise player” in the lottery draft, for what they see as insurance against a Kovalchuk departure in 2010. Horrible, if true. Folks, how, exactly, does one sugarcoat what the ownership has done on the hockey side of operations?

By Thrashy Thrashy

December 2, 2008 1:15 AM | Link to this

stendec,

Bobby Cox played Jeff Francoeur in 155 games this year. I think that knocks him down a peg. Hell, I hate Hawks coach Mike Woodson. However, his team looks like it will make the playoffs again this season. Whether it is in spite of him or because of him is pretty obvious (in spite of), but success is better than failure.

You understand that better than anyone else here, don’t you? O, ye of “it’s the goalie’s fault every time the Thrashers lose” fame.

By Thrashy Thrashy

December 2, 2008 1:19 AM | Link to this

Brendan,

You missed one important aspect about the Miracle on Ice

No way do we beat the Soviets if Waddell makes Team USA that year. No freakin’ way.

By ranallo10 (in AT)

December 2, 2008 5:37 AM | Link to this

Sage — Okay, fair enough. Then what if you simply outline the type of GM you feel would be successful here, and would build the team the way you hope it would be built?

For example, Brendan and I (among others I’m sure) feel that it’s imperative that whatever GM comes into the fray in Atlanta must be adept at scouting talent, drafting wisely with their own picks, developing the talent they’ve drafted, and building from within with less emphasis on Free Agent acquisitions or trades to fill out the bulk of the roster.

However, I also feel that the next GM must be a person that brings instant credibility to the team to players and agents league wide. My choices would be Yzerman based on his legacy, Nonis based on his experience, or Cheveldayoff based on his ties to the current system in place (in that order). Previously, I liked the prospect of DeBoers due to his success in juniors, but he is no longer available.

I don’t believe that any “proven” GM can come in and right the ship. This isn’t a situation where the team is one or two free agent signings or trades away from being consistently competitive, and with the current ownership group I don’t believe the team can ever become such a force in the free agent and trade markets (except for on the losing end, as they’ve been since coming into existence). Thus, any new GM coming in must be adept at identifying and developing talent, managing a limited budget with owners focused on the bottom line (not success), but still finding a way to field a competitive franchise year in and year out. Roster turnover will be inevitable, but the GM must be able to retain a core of players integral to the success of the team.

Basically, I feel this team requires a Poille-esque GM in order to succeed. Otherwise, this team is doomed to fail.

That’s my opinion towards building this team into something to be somewhat respected league wide…what’s yours?

By ranallo10 (in AT)

December 2, 2008 6:47 AM | Link to this

Burke is much more likely on this West Coast swing to get an agreement with Dave Nonis to be his right-hand man in the Leafs’ front office.

Burke has already requested - and received - permission from the Anaheim Ducks to talk to Nonis and there appears to be no obstacle to getting a deal done in short order. — Bob McKenzie, TSN.

…

Dammit. I guess I should scratch him off my short list.

By dhj_1962

December 2, 2008 7:17 AM | Link to this

good GOD, i see the lengths of yalls blogs, and wonder if yall have a life. they are too long for a bunch of amateurs. Kovy will not be on a forth line, he will get his 20 or more minutes.

By ranallo10 (in AT)

December 2, 2008 7:55 AM | Link to this

The length of the blog doesn’t directly correspond to the possession, or lack thereof, of a personal life. It’s an opinion being shared via a public forum.

Those of us who post more than three sentences have absolutely no life. We sit here staring at the screen waiting for the next post so that we can finally have a conversation with another individual. Hell, you made my day just noticing I exist!

Thank you.

By Bob

December 2, 2008 9:11 AM | Link to this

No way do we beat the Soviets if Waddell makes Team USA that year. No freakin’ way

Now that’s funny. And thanks for the mammaries, Brendan, I remember those days well, and we all felt like kicking some proverbial and literal a* after we won that game. And then Reagan came along and showed us all how to do it. I fear we’ll look back one day and realize those years were the peak of this society, whatever happened to that great American ideal of picking yourself up and working hard and winning something, against all odds. It’s like our current players’ malaise is typical of what is going on in our society today, everyone sitting around waiting on on someone else to do the work, waiting on their bailout. Very sad.

By stendec

December 2, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this

(NO BOLD DUE TO NATURE OF COMMENTS) - This is a lengthy post so those who do not like them can scram now. The accomplishment of the 1980 USA Olympic hockey team is deeply personal to me. I lost my father to lung cancer a quarter century ago. Still only yesterday. Dad rarely watched sports contests (he had much more pressing matters to attend to in the form of a wife plus three children). I was the sports fanatic of the household (I know Steely Dan). My brother likes sports but can take them or leave them. My family watched the gold medal team together. From the pre-recorded last second draw to the gold-clinching victory. Had never seen sports events keep my parents riveted to television screen. Two special goals left me jumping up and down with joy. The tying goal against Sweden in closing seconds of opener which kept Team USA in medal hunt. Marker in closing seconds of first period against USSR which forged a 2-2 deadlock. That goal led to yanking of Soviet netminder. Emotionally, that was the goal which submarined the USSR not the fourth goal in third period. Team USA is the reason I appreciate and respect the great sport of ice hockey. Teams with lesser talent can achieve greatness with grit and determination. Wayne Gretzkys are rarely available. The Thrashers are not done unless they believe they are done. Team USA had no business winning a gold (or any color) medal almost 30 years ago. Any medal would have meant success but these underachievers decided not to settle for anything but gold. Still the crowning moment in USA sports. Period. Sorry for rambling. Have a great week everyone. Even my buddy Steely.

By Rob

December 2, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this

All the folks criticizing Kovy. I have to ask, do you go to the games? He was all over the place this weekend. I do not think he played poorly or lazy. He gives everything he has. Don Waddell and the owners are a joke trying to use a revolving door each year for 10 new players. What a joke. Atlanta fans get screwed again by owners who can’t afford to fund the team. Instead they sue each other in court. Nice. Sorry, I can’t blame Kovy. Way too easy. Look at his support. This team will be gone in two years. I’d like to kick each owners a* personally. Totally unprepared for the job at hand.

By Tony C.

December 2, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this

Wow. Stendec, that was cohesive and stayed focused on the subject. Nice post.

No disrespect to your the loss of your father (It will crush me when mine goes), but it’s nice to see a post from you without the bold.

Keep it up.

In other thoughts, what about a #17/Williams/Thorburn line?

By Steely Dan

December 2, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this

stendec, that was actually a wonderful post and I’m glad you shared that story. The 1980 Olympic Gold medal Hockey team came along at the right time for this nation and I’m glad your dad was able to enjoy it before his passing.

We’ll do battle at another time I’m sure, but for now I join you in the memory of that special team and the memory of your father.

Salute.

By dhj_1962

December 2, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this

wow, the human side of stendec, i too lost my father to cancer, april 15, 1992, he was a sports fan too. we were big Philadelphia fans. not a day goes by that i don’t think of him. if the Thrashers had 1/2 the heart my father did, they’d be battling Washington for the top spot, Heart and a case of the wants would serve the Thrashers well. Some of them have it, its obvious, some of them don’t. i hope the crowd in Montreal can fire them up enough to play hard for 60 minutes or more, if they need too. Lack of talent might cause another loss, but lets hope its not from lack of effort.

By ranallo10 (in AT)

December 2, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this

Tony C. — I wouldn’t be against such a line simply because it still leaves someone on the ice that supposedly can finish any dishes sent their way from Kovalchuk.

Williams isn’t exactly a sniper, but he’s able to occasionally finish off those wicked wrist passes that Kovalchuk pulls out of nowhere. Thorburn meanwhile would be the size needed to do the banging along the boards and in front of the net.

I don’t think Reasoner and Thorburn have the requisite skills to properly finish a Kovalchuk pass…but I’m sure they’ll find a way to appear on the score sheet every so often if they’re lined up with Kovalchuk.

By Brendan

December 2, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this

Thrashy Thrashy, you are correct, sir, yes! No Gold for USA with the Wadster in the lineup. I shall not contest it.

Stendec, now there was a post of yours I can support! I think Miracle did far more for hockey in the United States than any Cup won by any American team. It got American kids much more into hockey. And we’re seeing it today. I forgot which year it was, maybe 2006 or 2007, where the Top 3 picks in the draft were Americans. And something like five of the top 10 were U.S.-born players. Is that directly traceable to the 1980 Olympic team? I’m not sure, but I think that it is.

1980 was a very important year for the United States of America. And it wasn’t because MTV was about to hit the airwaves for the first time in history. By the way, MTV stopped being good within a few years. SNL started to suck about the same time.

Bob, excellent post above. The term Societal evolution comes to mind. It reminds me of an episode of The Simpsons where Homer runs for Sanitation Commissioner on a platform of “Can’t someone ELSE do it?” One day, I wonder if people will meander into a public restroom and think, “You can’t possibly expect me to wipe my own bottom, can you?” Hey, we’re halfway there. Toilets autoflush now, so we don’t have to.

Ranallo, I completely agree with you that GM’s and teams must take care of their OWN business, first and foremost. If the team just drafts well and cultivates what the draft provides, then re-signs it responsibly, and PROACTIVELY, it should be just fine. Here’s a case in point. Bryan Little. I think the Thrashers got him at #12. Or thereabouts. Well, at #12, that’s precisely who they should have selected. They didn’t trade it. They didn’t go off the board to select some unknown kid still in high school, somewhere in the upper midwest. In short, they took what the draft provided for them at their draft position. Now, compare that to the NY Islanders who, last year, owned the #5 overall pick in the draft. There sat Luc Schenn, a future mainstay on the Isles blueline. Did the Islanders accept this blessed offering from the Hockey Gods? Nope. They traded down to #7, for two throw away 2nd and 3rd round picks. But, stupid is as stupid does. Not only that, GM David Poile, of the Nashville Predators, saw an idiot out on the loose and approached Charles Wang, aka Garth Snow, about swapping #7 for #9, for the 40th overall pick in the draft. And in so doing, passed up Filatov, Boedker, Colin Wilson, etc. At pick #9 in the draft, the logical choice is Josh Bailey, Center. And that’s what the Isles took. But pick #9 wasn’t where the Islanders draft position was. If it had been, FINE!! You take the best of what’s still available at #9.

Do you see it, now? Had the Isles just made their pick at #5, they’d have a quality defenseman for the next eight years. And as for 2nd and 3rd rounders, well … if Wang/Snow had to have them so badly, they could have taken a long hard look at their roster and moved some players not likely to remain within the organization anyway … to obtain those. Stupid is … as stupid does.

Which brings me to the point poster Rob mentions above. Namely, that the ownership needs someone to thump them over the head and awaken them from a long, dark, hiberating slumber. And Rob, have at it, buddy. And kick them once for me! But I don’t think NHL hockey should be gone from Atlanta. This market, (Atlanta, GA) soldout 38 of 41 home games back in 1999, before anyone could know what misery lay ahead for the coming decade. Get competent ownership in here to install competent management, and watch how our market flourishes!! And really, that’s all it takes. Just … BETTER JUDGEMENT. On the part of the owners. On the part of the GM. On the part of the scouting department. ETC. The wounds of the Atlanta Thrashers Hockey Club are all self-inflicted.

Digest that one? It’s the honest-to-God truth. No hurricane ripped through Atlanta, destroying Philips Arena. No great flood wiped out the practice facility. No bolt of lightning struck Philips Arena, igniting a fire through the Thrashers lockeroom. No external force … has hampered this club. The only thing hindering this club is poor decision-making and a lack of proper vision for the future. That’s the truth, folks. It’s the truth.

By Nikita

December 2, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this

I don’t think Reasoner and Thorburn have the requisite skills to properly finish a Kovalchuk pass…but I’m sure they’ll find a way to appear on the score sheet every so often if they’re lined up with Kovalchuk.

Disagree. a) Thorburn did it previously, b) Reasoner is skilled in general, and he plays greasy. Unless Kovalchuk is hitting him in the chest with the puck (which is possible) he’ll do his best to slip and slide it into goal.

By ranallo10 (in AT)

December 3, 2008 4:45 AM | Link to this

I said “properly” finish a Kovalchuk pass…and I also said they’d “find a way to appear on the score sheet”.

Greasy goals are not what I consider “proper” goals…I’m talking about one timers, redirections, shoving it in from the back post because the passer (in this instance Kovalchuk) did the required work to get the puck to his tape.

Reasoner and Thorburn are by no means scorers to be feared. They are size and grit and defensive responsibility (at least Reasoner is). Expecting them to score in troves is misguided in my opinion, and is akin to expecting Exelby to score goals simply because he’s placed on the PP.

(Obviously this is written after last night’s game where Thorburn did in fact score. I have no idea how he scored, so I’m sure it’s quite possible he made the prettiest goal of the night with some highlight reel snipage…but my money is on a rebound goal or shoot-and-hope type goal.)