AJC > Sports Thrashers > Blog > Archives > 2007 > March > 06 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USKa-ri’s bet-ter!
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
This is how playoff runs begin. The top line starts to generate points, the defense clears the zone effectively and the goaltender is the best player on the ice.
Let’s not mistake the Florida Panthers for a good team, but they’ve been playing like a good team. Four wins in a row coming in, Ed Belfour playing every night just like the old days. But we put a stop to that right quick. Two more points in the bank to temporarily jump back into the three-seed, pending Tampa’s game later tonight.
The difference between winning the division and not is huge, as we all know. It’s the difference between beginning a first-round series at home against a lower seed and beginning on the road — likely against a top-three. (Of course, if the playoffs began at this exact moment, we’d be home against Tampa Bay … and I don’t think any of us want to see Tampa Bay in the first round; although, we’d much rather it start at home.)
The difference tonight was palpable. Tkachuk and Kovalchuk have been building a little relationship in their first couple of games together, they almost connected a few times. And tonight, the dam broke. Three points for Ilya, two goals for Tkachuk. The breakout pass was a thing of beauty, and Tkachuk put a veteran move on Belfour. You can see positive chemistry with KT and IK … I wonder if Ilya reminds Tkachuk of when he played with Selanne when they were kids in Winnipeg.
A few minutes later, Florida had a breakaway of its own, and Lehtonen gloved that sonofagun and established himself. His reactions tonight were a whole level above where’s he’s been the past few weeks. He was a lot more fluid, he was able to anticipate shots like he used. He had been just reacting recently, and it was good to see him dictating the play again. The second goal against was unstoppable. Dude just wound up on a loose puck from eight feet away. No goalie is stopping that. Lehtonen stopped 38 of 40 shots. That’s a playoff performance. (We’ll give him a pass on botching that play behind the net which nearly led to a go-ahead goal at 2-2).
Of course Hossa checks in with his obligatory goal. He’s the master. If he doesn’t garner a bunch of Hart and/or Pearson votes, it’ll be a shame. Bobby Holik nearly scored his first goal since WWII, but Pascal Dupuis’ leg got in the way. I had a bad feeling after that bad-luck play, but the Thrashers never wilted.
There’s a definite spring in the step these days, something that was lacking in our prior losing streak. I can see this team coming together, new guys, old guys …
Last note of the day: Great blogging yesterday; a lot of interesting and varied opinions on kind of a weird subject. Let’s call this the bottom line: Don Waddell has guided this franchise with a steady hand through some seriously adverse situations, and though it hasn’t paid off with a playoff berth (yet) the team has been markedly improved every season. And he’s done it in a humane and professional manner, representing the team and the city well. IF this team indeed can put together a little playoff magic, it’ll be just desserts for one of the good guys in this league. And what’s more, if DW finds a little success at the end of the rainbow, he certainly won’t throw it in the faces of those of us who have critiqued his shortcomings. And even though guys like sodapants and jason could use a little brushup on their social graces, I do think it’s neat to be in a town where fans can love their GM and their team so unconditionally. I’m a natural cynic, as are many of our people on this board, and I kind of always see the yin and the yang of a situation. To those of you who see flowers blooming in the turds, I salute you.
Anyhoo …
Big game against playoff-wannabe Montreal on Thursday — desperate Habs. Then a crucial stretch against some teams with nothing to lose. Gotta win those. Thrashers have to bear down and get into the mind-set of a playoff run; winning the division is the goal now (baby’s first banner) … and we want to make that season-finale with T.B. a moot point.
Comments
By Daniel
March 6, 2007 11:12 PM | Link to this
This team is coming together. Everyone has their role, and right now everyone is playing that role well. I think defense is still an issue for this team, but right now what I think has made the difference is attitude. I don’t think anyone could have honestly predicted the surge of confidence and overall jump the team has gotten from Walt, Alexi, and Dooper and Belly. By the way, Dooper is quickly becoming one of my favorite Thrashers. He’s like Slates, but with a brain. I hope he keeps it up,and I hope we can sign him and Belanger in the offseason. To bring back a phrase often used in October from this blog, now is the time to gain ground and “bank” points on the weaker teams like we did against FLA tonite. As of right now its 1-1 TB and Van. Jeff Cowan scored for the ‘Nucks. Good to see alumni looking out for their former team :)
By JayBird
March 6, 2007 11:16 PM | Link to this
I’m very happy with the win but it was an ugly game. Our power play was horrible for most of the night. I was hoping they would realize they need to put the puck on net with Tkachuk in the middle and good things will happen. Kari looked great tonight, his vision was amazing. It was good to see Tkachuk get his first two goals and Ilya played really well. Hossa was his normal amazing self.
On a negative note, what the @!*& is up with people doing the wave at the game? Its hockey, not baseball. Please keep that redneck crap at the Ted and leave the Thrashers sanctuary alone. I guess that crap happens when people start jumping on the bandwagon. Overall, the crowd was pretty lame. 12,000 people? That’s an embarassment for a team that is closing in on its first playoff birth. Come on people, show up Thursday night and support the boys. And please, DO NOT DO THE WAVE!!!
By Ryan
March 6, 2007 11:49 PM | Link to this
2-1 Canucks going into the 3rd. I think the Thrash need to take notes on how the Canucks have handled the Bolts forecheck. Tampa has 8 shots on goal thru 2. Go Canucks!
By Tony C.
March 7, 2007 12:22 AM | Link to this
Big Ups to whoever pointed out the ‘Nucks-vs.-Tampa game is streaming on yahoo sports. Right now it’s 4-1 ‘Nucks like 8min left. I trust Luongo (spl?) with that kind of lead….I liked the energy of the game, again our PP is a challenge area, but it is improving. I am wondering if we will ever see McCarthy again?
Man I tell you what-the pacific division or whatever they call it….that’s some bad-a* hockey goin down out there. The pace is awesome-Tampa doesn’t seem like such a fire-on-ice type team..although the ‘Nooks aren’t exactly known as a ethargic team. I like the fact that the refs “let the boys play”, and that just because you’re a “star” player, you won’t neccessarily get the call. Ok, Bulis just flopped and got a very questionable call…..I take it back. Anyway, wow that’s some good hockey out there…I will be interested to see how the SE does against them for the season series.
Anyone else want to sponsor the Lehtonens for citizenship???
LET’S GO BLUE !!!
By Cowboy
March 7, 2007 12:24 AM | Link to this
Cowan! Cowan!
By Tony C.
March 7, 2007 12:26 AM | Link to this
Ok also on Cowan’s 2nd goal of the night, beauty razzle-dazzle play by Bulis to set him up….Fans chanting “Cow-Wan, Cow-Wan” after the goal, TB felt that they were being showed up-somebody went after Cowan-little fracas both got the gate-but Jeff kind of took his time, soaking in the Cow-Wan chant….love it.
By Pucks n Snot
March 7, 2007 12:33 AM | Link to this
12,000 people. Your team is white hot after a long anticipated infusion of new blood and is playing great hockey - heading for its first playoffs ever……and now they are drawing crowds smaller than before the trades went down when the team was spiraling in the toilet bowl. Yeah, Atlanta - you really deserve the NHL! That Thrashers spirit is really in high gear! Oh, I forgot how you guys do it down there, you know, with the Braves and all….the more empty seats the bigger the game? Sorry bout that (as Ontario, KC, Seattle watch and wait……..)
By Tony C.
March 7, 2007 12:38 AM | Link to this
wow.
pucks do you need a hug?
Or did you miss your ‘zac today.
And what’s wrong with the Saginaw Spirit?
Or any of the other 19 minor league teams that ring the lake???
Seattle or Portland is probably a good spot for the NHL to give the next go-round with a franchise. But Blueland is for real. Bet it’s gonna really upset ya when Le Thrash finish higher than the deadwings
Good talk Rusty (kudos to iceman on that one)
LET’S GO BLUE !!!
By Tom
March 7, 2007 12:39 AM | Link to this
God bless the Canucks.
We are in 3rd place.
By Brendan
March 7, 2007 12:51 AM | Link to this
The announcers kept referring to him as the “red hot” Jeff Cowan. If I’m not mistaken, I kept hearing the name Tommi Santala bandied about. I didn’t know he made it to the NHL. Good for him. I think he was part of the McCarthy trade. Kudos to Waddell for getting our 4th round pick back from the Canucks by shipping Santala to them.
Tampa is going to find this Western road trip very trying and taxing. I hope the Thrashers can put enough points up during this homestand to create a nice buffer. Did I hear right? Atlanta has won all six games vs. Florida this year? If that’s true, it’s amazing. But what are the odds that Atlanta would win all eight (8) matchups? Has any team done that to a divisional rival since the lockout? If not, I’d love for Atlanta to be the first.
By Pucks n Snot
March 7, 2007 12:53 AM | Link to this
Screw that, man - the CCHA playoffs are underway…you wanna see desire back in the face of a hockey player? Check that shyt out homeboy! Notre Dame, Miami of Ohio, Michigan, Michigan State, Lake Superior, OSU and more……do you guys even know there’s such a thing as college hockey down there? The road to the Joe is as spirited and hard fought a tourney as any ever held! Blueland….dude, I’m sorry - that slogan is totally gay, just like the jersey color. Almost as bad as 12,000 people (probably more like 9,000 as the team no doubt is puffing its gate totals) showing up after that team finally starts to take off with some hungry new additions. Other towns would be going apeshyt over that team right now if they had it - and yet here we go again having to watch the city of Atlanta YAWN and ho-hum along with what looks like another contender at the moment……Hey, its a nice city OK? It just doesnt need to have PRO SPORTS IN IT! NOT YOUR THING, GUYS! LEAVE IT FOR THE TOWNS THAT KNOW WHAT TO DO WITH IT, WILL YA?
By Ice Man
March 7, 2007 12:56 AM | Link to this
Yep, recent Alberta-B.C. swing really knocked the life out of the Thrashers. Hopefully, T.B. will take a similar beating. ….
BTW, excellent moment on Buck-Kincaide show today, when they were talking hockey. Out of nowhere, Buck goes, “That Tortorella dude down there in Tampa … I just want to punch that guy in the face.”
By BlueLand Billy
March 7, 2007 1:51 AM | Link to this
Wife and I were right in front of the 680 table when they made the Tortorella comments. Also mentioned that Tortorella had the “Napoleon Syndrome”. Was pretty funny.
Another ironic thing about the broadcast is that one of the 680 staffers delivered Dunkin Donuts to the table and I immediately thought of the incident a long time ago when Jim Schoenfeld made the infamous “Have Another Doughnut” comments to Don Koharski. Guess who was the referee for tonight’s game. You got it: Don Koharski.
By Darren
March 7, 2007 5:31 AM | Link to this
“When you tell these stories, here’s an idea…have a point! It makes it so much more interesting for the listener!”
Or in this case, the reader.
Guess what, Boston, St. Louis and Chicago didn’t draw either tonight.
Guess they shouldn’t have sports teams either.
Not only that, but there were a lot of fans disguised as empty seats when I was watching the game at Detroit. (Yes, I’m sure it was sold out, but they didn’t all make it there)
It’s a TUESDAY NIGHT game against the PANTHERS. That’s not a high-drawing combination.
But you knew that already.
The only two Tuesday games this year where the Thrashers drew substantially more were against Buffalo (understandable) and Tampa Bay (also understandable).
But you knew that already too, didn’t you.
And Kennesaw State, which just so happens to be in Metro Atlanta, just won the ACHA Div. III championships.
But I’m sure you knew that as well.
Actually, chances are you didn’t.
I also don’t believe anybody left it up to you to decide who should and shouldn’t have pro sports teams and how fans should or shouldn’t support them.
And I’m also sure that in the long and storied history of professional sports, Atlanta would be the ONLY city to ever artificially inflate its attendance numbers.
Well, not so much.
You apparently believe the city of Atlanta should behave differently.
Fine. Whatever. You made your point.
But beyond that, you’re just a bitter, angry whiner who surfaces every so often to take a potshot at the Thrashers, then scurries back underneath whatever rock you crawled out from.
Go away, dipweed.
By Sara
March 7, 2007 6:46 AM | Link to this
Oh what a game! The team looked great five on five, mostly great on the PK, the PP…well, coach knows what to work on in practice this week. Obviously Lehts looked sharp but methinks he needs to work on his puck-handling skills this week as well. That is not a strong area for him given he likes to handle it often. Last night’s incident wasn’t the first time I’ve seen him bobble it in his own end - he’s just been lucky it hasn’t cost him yet.
Nice to see the Thrash get back on top of the division. They screwed up earlier but have redeemed themselves - now just need to keep it that way. Hopefully the Northwest division can help the team out some, but mostly they just have to keep helping themselves. Work on the PP (particularly that 5 on 3 we seem to have trouble with) and get more aggressive on loose pucks - saw a little bit too much laziness last night and before with the Thrash either standing around staring at an opponent chasing a loose puck, or just skating lethargically over to one.
Some side comments:
I really like the marketing campaign from the League right now. I mean REALLY like it - a good ad campaign has been long overdue. Only thing is I don’t watch enough TV to know if those ads ever air at any time besides during a hockey game. That certainly has been a major weakspot for the League. They need to sink some money into primetime advertising.
As for pucks - there’s a valid point about there only being 12,000 fans at a game, even one on a Tuesday against a non-playoff team. Atlanta is a fair-weathered sports town - always has been, always will be. In this market, people are discerning with their money and if a team isn’t winning, generally they aren’t shelling out the money for it. The fact that a hockey game is super expensive to attend doesn’t help, nor does it help that the sport is still growing in the south. And weeknights will also likely never be wonderful since most Atlantans live outside of downtown, sometimes well outside, making it difficult to get to games before they start and awfully late nights getting home. However, these are issues that lots of markets share and it doesn’t necessarily mean the team will be relocated either. And in the spirit of keeping things fair, how was attendance in the 80s, pucks? Don’t think the “deadwings” as they were affectionately called (in their hometown I might add) were doing so hot then. It’s the nature of the beast.
By Russ
March 7, 2007 6:46 AM | Link to this
The last time I heard anything from Pucks N Snot was when he was telling me there was no way Edmonton would ever trade Ryan Smyth. He really seemed to have his finger right on the pulse of the NHL on that one.
By Brick
March 7, 2007 7:55 AM | Link to this
Cam Neely would be proud of the performance of number 8 over the past few games; 2 goals, assist, that big keester is constantly in front of the net causing havoc AND he won 65% of his draws last night. Can we ship STL another 6th or 7th round pick just as an extra thank you?
And what a difference with the speed and energy of Dupuis and Belanger in the lineup.
Hey Snots, who the Wings going to cave to in the first round this year? Oh, we do know college hockey down here and the KSU team that won the ACHA D3 crown, they beat your beloved Hope and Calvin Colleges on the way to the title.
By Bob
March 7, 2007 8:27 AM | Link to this
Don’t blame the fans, blame the marketing genius with the Spirit that thought 7pm weekday games in Atlanta traffic were a good idea. I would have loved to have gone last night, but there’s no way I can get home from work and back down to the game in time for a 7pm start. In fact, I barely made it to my TV for the 7:10pm drop of the puck.
Dupuis and Belanger have brought us a better PK and much needed speed. Zhitnik and Tkachuk have fit in well.
These are excellent moves Waddell made at the deadline and it turned the club around. Now you see why I was b*** all year to get moves done, this club can make a nice run now.
I’d like to Hartley learn from his mistakes earlier this year when he started Kari 14, 15 games in a row and wore him down. He needs to work in Moose a couple of times between now and the end of the season to keep Kari fresh when he will have to play every game in the playoffs.
By Rawhide
March 7, 2007 8:54 AM | Link to this
Looks like Snot-boys mommy reconnected his dial up. What a moron…..whats-a-matter snotty, Detroit area not technologically advanced enough to have a newspaper/team internet blog site? Must be why your in here.
although I love college hockey and the Frozen Four, it does not match up to the magic happening at Blueland. If you don’t like it snot-face then go shovel some yellow snow.
Anyway, another wonderful outing last night. Kari was great and we found a way to lose a game we would not have 3 weks ago. Just a solid game.
4-0 since DW’s moves,…..6-1-1 in the last 8. Getting hot when we have to.
Magic number is now 21 to make playoffs, a win tomorrow would bring it to 17 since we are playing the 9th place Canandiens.
GO THRASHERS - MAUL MONTREAL!!!!!
By Paul Hamilton
March 7, 2007 9:14 AM | Link to this
Wow Pucks is quite angry about something. What all american sports city do you live in? It’s funny people get jealous of Atlanta and the most inventive thing they come up with is the fans stink, which we’ve all heard only 10 billion times. I was born here and there are so many transplants that are from up north down here now, it’s amazing we have any fans at all. Tell you what Pucks, you exert your authority on the mass of northerners down here. Tell them they can no longer support their old teams and must support only Atlanta teams, and we will sell out every single sports game there is, except maybe the hawks. If I had a dollar for every Yankees, Red Wings, Mets, Steelers, Giants, and Red Sox fan I run into on a daily basis, I would be as wealthy as Ted Turner. When you can come up with something better than the fans suck and do you guys know about college hockey, come back and join us.
By Nikki
March 7, 2007 9:28 AM | Link to this
I’ve been a closet hockey fan since the Thrashers arrived in Atlanta. As an African-American, it’s very easy to stay a closet hockey fan since no one discusses it. Today, however, I think I’ll go out and buy a “Believe in Blueland” T-shirt in honor of the Thrashers’ great run. I’m sure it’ll be a conversation piece. Who cares!!;)
By Bob
March 7, 2007 9:42 AM | Link to this
Atta a girl, Nikki. Time to come out of the closet.
You’ve been a fan, Nikki, but you watch. You’ll have people in your office all of a sudden asking you how to get tickets and about the team. As we get nearer to the playoffs, this town will get behind the Thrashers. It’s one of the main reasons Waddell made the moves he did, to light a fire and get new fans out to the game.
Let’s encourage the new fans, as the more we get, the more stable the franchise will be going forward.
By LAC
March 7, 2007 9:43 AM | Link to this
Darren is 100% correct about this snot thing and his second grade comments.
Hell, in New Jersey you could sneeze and blow SNOT all over the next ten rows in front of you and not hit a single person with a bugger, but snot… you could be a REAL man and swollow and all will be well… How bout it ? Leave our blog alone with your WORTHLESS comments !
TB in EDM tonight still reeling from Ryan Smith trade…could they be primed tonight to stuff TB ????
We still have 8 home 6 road. Home - Mtl/Wash(2)/NYR/Buff/Tor/SJ TB. ROAD - FL(2)/Pitt/Bost/Car/Phila.
14 left, 80 pts, 8 spot is 73 points 7 points away. So we have a 3 1/2 game lead so to speak.
If we will 12 we are in… Let rip MTL !
By Ilya k
March 7, 2007 9:45 AM | Link to this
Kovy and Walt = 5pts. WOW. PP is still winging it but there is so much skill they will come together well. Hey……can we have an inteligent blog about how this team would stack up in the playoff???? COMENTS! Too much time is wasted on idiots like Snot. At the end of the day he lives in detriot so I feel sorry for him.
By bryan lewis
March 7, 2007 9:47 AM | Link to this
A key reason for this winning streak is the overall team depth that we now have. We have waves of good players coming at the opponent on every line. This is apparent in our 3rd period performance over our last few games. Lets hope the team does not start getting over confident and go into a slide. Our next 5 games are crucial to put a buffer between us and TB. Go Thrashers!!!
By Rawhide
March 7, 2007 9:59 AM | Link to this
Another reason for the winning ways is that Sutton is only getting 7-8 minutes ice time per game. Zhitnik, Devo, XLB and Havalid taking the bulk on the blueline is very solid.
Proof,….over the past 4 games, 2 goals against, 2 goals against, 1 goal against, 2 goals against……
Then you add that the special teams are greatly improved. Thank you TK. He takes SO much pressure off Kovy. Teams were just denying him that slappper from the point and we were not trying anything else. PP looks good and the PK is holding it’s own now.
Also, since Kovy isn’t taking double shift on the PP, he is fresher for the 5-5.
By sweetlew
March 7, 2007 10:03 AM | Link to this
Great trades Waddell. Thanks for making the moves for us. Lets try to get Tkachuk resigned for next year. Our team is stacked!!!
By BrandonC
March 7, 2007 10:03 AM | Link to this
Hossa was the best player on the ice, again. Phenomenal, that guy. Give everyone else the credit, per usual, but it’s always Big Hoss carrying the mail.
By Fred
March 7, 2007 10:25 AM | Link to this
I too was disappointed in the attempt to get a wave started.
But hard to be surprised when it’s the same group of “fans” that scream “Knights” during the National Anthem and think it’s cool.
The 12,500 attendence was a bummer too, no energy at all, but I’m NEVER going to complain about the lack of real FANS to come out when you glance over at the premium seats, that are practically sold out to season ticket buyers, and see half of them empty. Now that’s just a damn shame.
Anyway, 2 points is 2 points, ugly game or not. In fact, that’s one of the things that we need to reach the next level - win games when you aren’t playing your best!
By Peyton Holland
March 7, 2007 10:31 AM | Link to this
It’s fantastic to see the Thrashers coming together. In an effort to save his job, it seems like Don Waddell’s trading escapades have paid off.. and hopefully will continue to do so. The addition of Zhitnik and especially Tkachuk to the team will pay off come playoff time.. I think that Atlanta fans are really going to see a change in this team over the final stretch of the season. I’m excited to see how Atlanta fans respond to this chase into the final stretch towards the most exciting playoffs in all of sports.
By Ryan
March 7, 2007 10:44 AM | Link to this
It was great to watch the bolts canucks game on stream. Van. took it to the Bolts and we’re back in third. Gotta root for the Oilers tonight.
By Pucks n Snot
March 7, 2007 11:07 AM | Link to this
Yeah, I was the only one saying Ryan Smyth was staying in Edmonton. You ignorant quacks have no idea of the damage to the league a trade like that causes. Ryan Smyth WAS the Edmonton Oilers. Taking that guy out of that city is like moving the franchise itself. The NHL says they are all about promoting stability….what a joke. Captain Canada goes to Long Island, the Penguins are a hair away from loading up for Kansas City…now I hear Igilna & Kiprusoff are going to be tough signs for Calgary - I’m sure they’ll bolt across the border for big $$ too. I have news for all of you - if the NHL thinks it can survive by abandoning its tradition and anchor bases it is sorely mistaken. Well, maybe they would survive, but the game will slowly die….. I am red white & blue all the way, but I gotta tell you - if I was Canadian I would be thinking about starting a petition for the formation of a new Canadian professional hockey league. I am sick and tired of seeing shyt like the Ryan Smyth trade & Winnipeg to Phoenix just because of money. What’s next, does the Montreal brass wake up one day and say “hey, ya know - we can make a hell of a lot more dough if we pack up & head for Houston - LETS DO IT! THE HOUSTON HABS!” Yeah, great for the game. And keep taking pot shots at Detroit….you feel sorry for me? What for? I don’t have the longest average commute to work in the U.S. because of an unmanageable traffic nightmare they way you do. I don’t have to look at sections of my city being taken over by illegal immigrants the way you do. When I go to the lake, I actually get a lake, not a dredged hole filled with sewage & construction runoff the way you do. I can go for a drive in the country without having to see all my favortie spots filled with generic townhouses, bulldozers and stripmalls the way you do. You think Atlanta is such hot shyt. The quality of life down there will suffocate under the population increase before long. I know many people who went down there and came back because of how overcrowded and chaotic that place is becoming. I read where by 2030 two thirds of the U.S. population will live in the south and the west. GOOD! More space for me up here! I for one am committed to sticking it out and doing what I can to help turn things around in my home state. Some people have no choice but to leave, but others are cowards who have no sense of loyalty, just like the cowards running the NHL right now. In 10 or 15 years Atlanta will probably have 10 million or more people in that metro area…..approaching the populations of New York & Chicago - how great will your city be THEN - when you can even get out of your subdivision without sitting in bumper to bumper traffic? As usual its all about the here & now for you people, though!
By pucksatwat
March 7, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this
Dude, chill out. Detroit is great? Really? I have been there, it is pretty much a s-ithole. You have such beautiful weather and I love driving by burned buildings still standing from riots 40 years ago. That definitely sounds like heaven to me! Yes, Atlanta is overpopulated and overgrown but at least it’s not Detroit. Oh yeah, nice arena up there. I love a concourse seperated by a curtain. Yes, you have a great hockey history but the city blows and Joe Louis Arena is a joke.
By George
March 7, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this
Pucks n Snot has to be a lesbien, hooker who married her brother.
By Brian
March 7, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this
Tony C. & Matt H - I referred this to Matt H earlier, but here is the schedule to Hockey Live on the internet
Here is tonight’s lineup, just click and watch
Last year it was nice because as someone pointed out (Tom, Brendan, can’t remember) not all games were covered by CenterIce in the playoffs. Comcast had a ton of them from what I remember, but I’m not sure as I wasn’t paying attention to their schedule in the opening round.
I am not sure if you can use this without being a customer though, or in my case a former customer with a password & username.
Thanks Bob for pointing out that this was a weeknight game and our marketing dept wanted a 7pm start in Atlanta traffic. Talk to them for the stupid Blueland thing as well.
Oh yeah, wasn’t Edmonton the team that couldn’t hold on to the greatest player in history when he was in his prime? Heh heh heh, Kitchener…
Wasn’t the reason that the Winnipeg Jets moved to Phoenix because they couldn’t afford the new contract of their star player - Keith Tkachuk? Gee, I wonder if a city like Atlanta would have a problem obtaining a player like him…
By Rawhide
March 7, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this
“You ignorant quacks have no idea of the damage to the league a trade like that causes. Ryan Smyth WAS the Edmonton Oilers. Taking that guy out of that city is like moving the franchise itself”……
Hey snot-boy,…..if Wayne Gretzki can be traded from Edmonton and the league did not collapse, then ANYONE can be traded. It’s the nature of sports in the modern day era that ANY player can be traded.
george,…I rather think of P&S as that midget from “benchwarmers”….you know, the one still living in mommies basement, playing with dragons and a castle made from boxes……sad, pathetic, miserable, little creton that he is.
Snot boy, unfortunatley, has eaten too much yellow snow.
By Rawhide
March 7, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this
Oh,……let us not forget that ‘ol Snotz is the one telling us that the Thrashers are a few short months from relocating to Kitchener, Ontario to become the Ontario Owls.
HA!
Funny, I didn’t realize the National Enquirere had a sports page………
By Pucks n Snot
March 7, 2007 12:07 PM | Link to this
I never said Detroit was “great”, you pryck. Interior Detroit has serious issues, always has. But it was once a great city and can be again. Unlike Atlanta, the city is almost totally segregated. Detroit itself is 80 percent black and most of the suburbs are over 90 percent white. That kind of enviornment is not condusive to economic growth in this day & age. Now, I know its not “hip” in todays far left, media driven society to be loyal and work hard for change rather than just run away, but I for one am committed to just that. The weather sucks…..well, says you. There are people left in the world who appreciate all 4 seasons, rather than sunny and 75 on Christmas Day. The Joe? Yeah, we could use a new arena, and we’ll get one. But as a hockey fan I’d rather be at the Joe, curtains & all, in the middle od traditional hockey paradise than in hicktown Atlanta looking at empty seats in my shiny new digs during the playoff chase. Oh, and btw, Comerica Park and Ford Field are far superior to your baseball & football setups respectively. Not to mention Michigan Stadium, which seats (and fills) twice what Georgia Tech does and about 15,000 more than Georgia. You aint all that Atlanta, but go ahead and keep thinking you are if it makes you feel good…
By Jamie Fehr
March 7, 2007 12:07 PM | Link to this
Hey George your on the right track but you don’t quite got it, she is a prostitute that doesn’t get any regular business so her brother comes to her for some “Fun”. Also Pucks n Snot your a headcase and you definitely have a future in a (Prostitute) Insane Asylum
By Jamie Fehr
March 7, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this
The truth hurts doesn’t it Pucks n Snot ??
By Syl
March 7, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this
Did anyone else see the interview with Zhitnik last night? It seems to me that when asked how he liked playing with Havelid he said something to the effect that the defensemen need to worry about defense more than offense. And did he say something about Havelid making a lot of mistakes? I like the fact that the new guys seem to realize that this team is young and needs vocal leadership from the veterans. It’s nice to go from a team with a few superstars and a lot of rookies to a gritty veteran team.
By Bob
March 7, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this
Brian, I’m going to try to get you back on track here, again.
CenterIce shows every playoff game that is NOT shown on the broadcast channel (which used to be ESPN, now is VS and NBC? for the playoffs).
So, if you want to watch every playoff game, you have to get CenterIce. Otherwise, you’ll only get the game shown in your area.
In the past, when the 3rd round started, every game would be shown on the broadcast channel (ESPN) and then CenterIce would shut down as there was no need for it. Not sure what VS will do this year, but I’d guess the NHL will schedule the Conference Finals on off nights so VS and NBC? will be able to show every game.
By Brendan
March 7, 2007 1:00 PM | Link to this
I love Center Ice. Truthfully, it’s what I mostly watch. I got to see all of Tampa Bay vs. Vancouver last night. And tonight, it’s “Let’s go OI-LERS!!” Go Edmonton!
Plus, ya know. We get to see all the “intermission babes” from across the league. Ummn, just forget I said anything.
By Midfield
March 7, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this
South East Division has just gotten to another mentally weak one up north. Just when the idiot from Toronto got lost in the wilderness.
By Brian
March 7, 2007 1:08 PM | Link to this
Bob - you’re just an idiot. I said “not all games were covered by CenterIce in the playoffs” You then said “CenterIce shows every playoff game that is NOT shown on the broadcast channel”
Ergo, if you only have CenterIce and not the additional packages which I believe it was Tom or Ratio who pointed this out, you didn’t see every game. How am I off track?
One more time Bob, YOU said that if a game was on a broadcast channel then CenterIce would not have it. Thus, CenterIce does not have every playoff game. Please, do tell how I am off track. You are making Pucks n Snot look rational.
By Brian
March 7, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this
Pucks n Snot - if you are so loyal to your Detroit roots, why are you supporting a Sun Belt hockey blog? Are you running away because you have no good chat rooms in your prosperous city? Thank you for your patronage, Craig & IceMan are glad that you are increasing the number of hits their blogs are getting. Support the South!
By DWTOO
March 7, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this
Pucks - Wht do you keep coming back here? You have nothing positive to contribute, aren’t a Thrasher fan, and don’t live in Atlanta. Those of us who read these posts want to generate a serious discussion on our team (for the most part - there’s a bit too much personal criticism here). But, you’re too much. Do you thrive on abuse. Assuredly there’s got to be a Dead Wing board somewhere that would welcome you.
One point to consider when comparing Atlanta to Detroit. NO ONE MOVES FROM HERE TO THERE!!
Move on.
By Brian
March 7, 2007 1:24 PM | Link to this
Bob - sorry, it was actually Russ who said that he needed to upgrade to get all playoff games
Point still being that CenterIce alone will not give you every playoff game as Russ contests to.
By Chris
March 7, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this
I love the following line of thinking:
Atlanta is so lame. You can’t even sell out (insert event here)
As a sports fan, I love it. I can get tickets whenever I want - pretty much day of game. Including Thrashers tickets. There’s no reason Atlanta fans should ever apologize for poor attendance. It in no way makes Atlanta a lesser city. Is it our fault that pro sports isn’t the only thing going on in our town?
Vintage Tkachuk goal in the 3rd last night. One foot in the crease, planted firmly, would have been able to knock home even a feed that was slightly off. A nice addition new component to the offensive attack.
By Rawhide
March 7, 2007 1:58 PM | Link to this
Kari’s mom and dad are still in town…Momma Lehtonen, what are you feeding your boy???
Whatever it is, freeze-dry it and pack Kari’s fridge full of it before you leave!!!
Better yet, stay a while. The weather sure is turning nice and, hey,….it ain’t like your having to stay in,…oh,…Detroit.
By Ilya k
March 7, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this
SNOT…….on behalf of all the people in Atlanta and for that matter anyone that does not live in Detriot. We would like to personally thank you for STAYING in Detriot. Thanks So Much!!
By vlad
March 7, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this
here is an email address at sportsouth. this person is in the PR dept.
khart@foxsports.net.
let her have it.
By LAC
March 7, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this
AJC… Please BAND snot from anymore posts, they are simply NUTS and not worth even looking at, if you cannot be a fan and support the team, just because you have the Canada complex…
Well, what can I say…
PLEASE BAND SNOT THING ASAP …PLEASE
By ranallo10
March 7, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this
Wow Pucks, I haven’t seen anybody get railed on THIS much in these blogs until you started posting.
I hate to say it, but behind all of your BS trash talk you occasionally inject a bit of logic onto this board. The problem is that you’re not thinking your logic out before posting it (to everybody’s chagrin).
For instance, your Ryan Smyth wont be traded idea…it’s not illogical to believe that the cornerstone player for the past 10 years will stay on his hometown team. It’s quite logical to believe that Edmonton would keep said player, attempt to bolster the roster for a playoff run, and lock that cornerstone player up for years to come. Your problem came when you started trashing other people for thinking it was possible he was traded…and that’s now come back to bite you. Edmonton surprised THE ENTIRE LEAGUE by trading Smyth, and the Islanders were quick enough to swoop in and get him. Is this a long term change for Edmonton? Maybe not, as it’s rumored Smyth will simply re-sign as a free agent in the offseason. So if that’s the case, why NOT trade him for prospects? Philadelphia did the same thing with a better player, and you don’t hear anybody screaming “the sky is falling!”
And as for your statements about our football or baseball stadiums…Turner Field is template for NEW MLB stadiums. Many teams, during the process of building a new stadium, ask Atlanta for advice on building similar stadiums. The drainage system under the field was revolutionary technology, and has been the guideline for most new stadiums since Turner Field’s inception. The Georgia Dome IS old, yes, and it too is currently under development to be upgraded drastically (Blank threw a ton of money at the project after being shot down on a new stadium proposal for 2010—I believe).
Philips Arena is one of the top arena’s in the country in the NHL. Minnesota has a shiny new arena that topples every arena. Joe Louis has it’s luster, but it’s just old. The greatness of a stadium is completely subjective. I personally would much rather a nice new ballpark that needs some infused tradition than an old arena/stadium in desperate need of repair or replacement. Wrigley Field nearly killed people last year, do you think Chicago is proud of that? Yankee Stadium is being replaced. Boston and the NY Mets are soon to follow. If tradition is your thing, so be it, but tradition one day HAS to go by the wayside, because it becomes outdated.
Anyways, I don’t want to spark anything with you, I’m just trying to give you other opinions that differ from your own, without resorting to knocking Detroit.
By ranallo10
March 7, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this
Actually, since you’re from Detroit could you tell me something? What’s the word on Jiri Fischer? Since his recuperation article on ESPN.com, I haven’t heard anything about him. He mentioned his whole new look on life, and on hockey, and that he’s been told he’ll never play at a high level again. Has there been any change since then (I think that was early this season when the article came out, but I can’t recall).
Seriously, I’m interested in Fischer, got anything for me?
By Bob
March 7, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this
Brian, you have got the dullest wit of anyone I’ve ever seen willing to show their a* on the internet. Once again you completely miss the point, here I’ll type slowly:
The point is that CenterIce shows all games that are not on the broadcast channels (VS and NBC? not sure if NBC has the broadcast rights again this year). So, CenterIce fills in when VS only shows you one game in your area, and there’s 3 others on, get it?
I understood what Russ meant, Russ needed VS in his package to get all the games. CenterIce shows everything else?
Get it? Probably not, but I’ll keep trying with you, because seriously though, Brian. Please try to stop and think before posting or at least try to educate yourself. I do not want opposing fans to show up here in a month and think we’re all idiots because of one guy who can’t get through one day without stepping on his schwantz. Really. This isn’t rocket science, it’s hockey. First ever playoff run, opposing fans are going to show up and think we’re all inbred hicks who think they race the puck around in left turn circles till that there ref takes off that there checkered striped shirt and waves it at the winner.
By Brian
March 7, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this
ranollo10 - as for our stadiums, I think Philips had a stroke of genius when they put all the suites on one side. Granted they did it for other reasons too (i.e. access levels on one side for just the club suite ticket holders) it was great because our upper bowl is closer to the ice/court than any other in the league. A first row seat in the upper deck at Philips is parallel to a 200 level in other arenas.
By ranallo10
March 7, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this
You’re a typing conundrum Bob. I absolutely love your incessant degradation geared towards those who disagree with you. It’s almost as if it’s your personal vendetta to show anybody who thinks differently than you how they are “idiots”. You go out of your way to criticize.
You and Brian are saying the same thing, let it go.
For what it’s worth, I liked your NASCAR/NHL analogy…it’s just too bad you used it towards the wrong person. Focus your rants on the deserving…Pucks n Snot seems to be the whipping boy around here, so maybe him.
By Roswell Thrasherfan
March 7, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this
I can’t figure out what bob & brian are saying differently? I had an easier time figuring out what icing was.
By stay in detroit
March 7, 2007 5:29 PM | Link to this
Snot.. please do us just one favor and stay in your beloved town. Please. I have only one thing to say about your precious Wings and how cool they are.. Their logo is a tire with wings. How lame is that? It always makes me think of that old ad campaign for maxi pads where the lady says “The darn thing’s got wings!” Enough said. Go Thrash.
By Pucks n Snot
March 7, 2007 5:58 PM | Link to this
ranallo, Fischer suffers from a type of tachycardia, or rapid heartbeat, and is still occasionally skating with the team while he continues to undergo tests out at U of M. He’s kept on a very short leash when he does skate obviously….It is very unlikely he’ll ever play professionally again. No one wants to see a repeat of what happened to him.
By Pucks n Snot
March 7, 2007 6:35 PM | Link to this
Thing is, when it comes to athelets and heart problems, no doctor in his right mind is ever going to give a complete green light to a guy looking to get back into his game. It’s always gonna be a “proceed at your own risk” type of thing. The heart is a tricky thing to diagnose….that’s why the testing takes so long - they gotta see how it does over a period of time, and try to determine if it’s congenital, and if it’s acute rather than chronic. I feel bad for Jiri, but he shouldn’t risk his health any further. Fortunately we are chock full of talented defenseman such as Lilja, Kronwall, Lebda, Chelios and of course Lidstrom - and continue to rank near the top of the league in (least) goals allowed.
By Bob
March 7, 2007 8:24 PM | Link to this
ranallo, are you still smarting from getting it back, you’re used to just giving, eh? Come on, I’d think you were in a better mood now that JPVJ is sitting. How do you like Dupuis? Not perfect, but better wheels and has some jump the other way, I know you have to like that.
I love to hear opposing views, that’s how you learn, although I do enjoy a good, informed, intelligent debate. I only got on you and Brian since you both would post such nonsense and then get belligerent about it when you got it back.
Now I have to admit, you’ve at least got a good bit of hockey sense after you get by your irrational dislike of all things JP, so I shouldn’t lump you in on the short bus.
Pucks n Snot, he’s just a troll. It’s best to just ignore him, no?
By Lango
March 7, 2007 8:40 PM | Link to this
Note to Coach: Please give Moose a start every fifth game or so. It is good for the team, good for Kari and good for Moose.
By sodapants
March 7, 2007 9:59 PM | Link to this
hey.. look at that. I’m a celeb now. The Iceman named me in public. No big deal there, but it’s actually the first time on this site that it’s been done by someone not banning me! Thanks, Ice!
I do owe you an appology though for being a bit harsh and reactionary. I actually like you and your blog. But hey.. politics isn’t for the timid, as hockey talk isn’t for girls. You automatically understand this… I just with more did.
The team looks good… we’re on a roll…. Kill the Habs. After all, since the invention of the ice maker, Canadians have become pretty much useless.
Anyway.. shalom.
-pants
By Peyton Holland
March 8, 2007 8:20 AM | Link to this
I didn’t know the Red Wings hired folks to come talk about how supposedly amazing their hockey team is.. especially in locations as irrelevant as our great city. Kind of reminds me of the SS from WW2. Good to know, I’ll keep that in mind. And I agree with everyone that’s said nobody moves from Atlanta to Detroit. That’s for obvious reasons. What’s the last best thing to come out of Detroit? Oh yeah, Kid Rock and Eminem. Uh.. what’s their talent again? And did anyone even SEE 8-mile? Everyone that I’ve ever talked to that lived in Detroit, upon moving here, immediately forsook all prior allegiance to that open landfill scab of a city.
Go Thrashers.
By Matt H
March 8, 2007 11:31 AM | Link to this
Comcast owns the Flyers, or at least the arena in Philly, yes? (or both? Don’t they also own VS?) Thanks for the link, Brian. My folks over in Mai-retta have the Comcast, so I can probably steal their password to watch the games over the Net, once we get that set up.