AJC > Sports Thrashers > Blog > Archives > 2007 > October > 11 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USCoulda-woulda-shoulda…
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
You could say that the Thrashers played much better against Ottawa then they did in their first two games. And you’d be right.
You could say that Kovalchuk played like a man possessed. That his goal was a great individual effort, truly highlight film material. Again, you would be correct.
You could say that, (minus Ken Klee looking Sutton-esque on Kelly’s goal less then 2 minutes in), the Thrashers almost resembled the team we saw push their way into the playoffs last year. At least for 2 whole periods, yes they did.
You could point to the fact that the Thrashers outshot Ottawa 24-23 in the last two periods. That they are showing signs of getting into equilibrium the “shots-for”/”shot against” line. And once more, “You are correct, sir”!
You could explain how the Kovy-White-Sterling line played exiting hockey throughout the game. Not too many would disagree.
You could also say that the Thrashers actually played with a lot of effort and energy Wednesday evening. Uh-huh, yes they did.
The problem is, after you said all that our team still has exactly as many points in the standings as chances that a Red Wings fan from Livonia, Michigan, could land a date with Charlize Theron.
ZERO.
Now you could, if you wanted to, also point out that the three teams that we have played are a collective 11-0-0, outscoring their opponents 33-14. It is so.
You could also remind us all that not only are the Senators undefeated this regular season but they were also went undefeated during pre-season. Yes, yes they did, not that it matters. But it does bolster the argument that they are the class of the East, the team to beat.
So now the defending Southeast Division champion Thrashers shuffle off to Buffalo to take on the defending Northeast Division champion Sabres who have …why… exactly as many points as we do. That’s right, a Goose egg. Then on Saturday night we get the defending Atlantic Division champ New Jersey Devils who are …what’s this?…1-2-0 on this young season.
Well, I guess now you could say that, finally, it’s about time the schedule affords us a chance to get better by playing some of the “weaker” teams of the conference.
Yep. That’s what you COULD say.
Comments
Commenting is now closed for this entry.
By j nes
October 11, 2007 11:03 AM | Link to this
“Could” I say that I like Thorburn’s size on this small team and he “should” get some more ice time?
By Mehoff
October 11, 2007 11:23 AM | Link to this
yeah, i loved the energy the 4th line brought..more ice time would have been nice. And still happy with Enstrom’s play so far, and Little looked like he kicked it up a notch last night.
But Klee, I know it’s hard to believe..looked worse than Sutton last night…
By Brendan
October 11, 2007 11:25 AM | Link to this
I could say that Thrashers “magic number” still stands at 95. ‘Cuz that’s what it is for making the playoffs this year.
By Thrashers27
October 11, 2007 11:30 AM | Link to this
Can I say that I really like what I’m seeing out of Enstrom. That kid and Little are tearing it up. I’m still waiting to see Sterling turn it up a notch.
For the most part the blueline boys looked like arse last night. This is nothing new. Although Klee did stand there like a goose frozen to a lake on that first goal I did notice a few nice plays from him later in the game. Mac needs to pick it up some and I agree that Thorburn provides for some beef, which is sorely needed.
Let’s hope that Hoss can get back and that these boys can cash in on two points tonight.
GO BLUE!!!
By silverpork
October 11, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this
I missed the first few minutes of the game so I didn’t witness Klee’s Suttonesque play. I have to say, despite that, I don’t think he looks nearly as bad as some others on the team (Nick and Zhit have been consistently terrible.)
There were some positives last night for sure, but that goose egg in the W column is starting to sting more and more. Even without Hoss, we generated more chances last night than either of the previous games, but we still need to find a way to spend more time in the offensive zone. Kovy’s goal was gorgeous, but if we have to rely on Kovy/Hoss to pick someone’s pocket and convert unassisted, we’re in trouble.
By sisu
October 11, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this
X was all over the place, he was using his body to hit guys non stop! It was a much better effort from the team and they looked good for 2/3 of the game. Season is young and this will get better!
By russian
October 11, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this
I will not be surprise if we will lost game in Buffalo. Why? 1. We are tired after home game 2. They were flying to Buffalo 3. Kovy got hurt. Yes he did, when he come back he did not play fast enough. 4. Hossa is out. 5. Our offensive play is horrible. We could not finish our shots. My result on Buffalo Game will be 4 : 1 Shots on Goal First period: 15 – 3 Second period: 13 – 4 Third Period: 12 – 5 I hope Moose will start tonight, but he can not save us. I hope my prediction WRONG, but I did not see how we can get 2 points
By JayBird
October 11, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this
Great blog once again, Rawhide. The headline sums up my life, coulda, woulda, shoulda!
Moral victories only go so far and they sure as hell don’t show up in the standings. Let’s just hope last night was a sign of the kind of play we will see in the future and not just a tease.
By Midfield
October 11, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this
I disagree on Kovy’s line: Sterling skates, but he cannot control the puck on this level at all.
By russian
October 11, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this
to Midfield Great Point. Kovy did not have support at all for whole game .
By Kozlov
October 11, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this
I thought our play was just too hasty. So much so that half of the team couldn’t handle the puck at those speeds. Again with too many passes. What’s up with all the movement in front of the goal? Just shoot the damn thing. If you don’t, nothing will happen. I liked the fact the Zhitnik played an offensive game. I think he took more shots than some of the offensive players. The two penalties were a minus, of course. X looked good but Havelid was still lagging behind. And that stupid penalty at the end..Urghh! Kovy showed some effort. He is really developing into a well rounded all around player. Kozy…I don’t even remember him doing anything other than messing things up. He wasn’t in the game, and that’s too bad. We really needed him. Overall, a definite improvement. At least it was interesting to watch the game, unlike the previous two. Let’s see if we can improve even more today.
By luckydog
October 11, 2007 12:41 PM | Link to this
To pick up a thought from your last blog…
You could also say that it’s getting very old watching Slater scramble around to almost no effect.
I wanna like the guy, he seems like a nice fella. He finished 05-06 looking like an emerging force. But since then? Jacksquat. 5 goals last year. If he doesn’t have a half-dozen by Christmas, and a dozen or so assists, I say his time’s up.
Between him and Dupuis and Perrin we’ve had too many undersized underachievers in the first three games….
By Sara
October 11, 2007 12:46 PM | Link to this
Could I say how much I think Hartley is “un-good?” I got to thinking some more about the game last night, and our 0-3 start, and how life as a Thrasher fan blows at the moment. And I remembered something that DE & Co. were talking about last night. They said that if you went and asked 23 different players/coaches why the team stunk so bad the first two games, you’d get 23 different answers. Now, correct me if I’m wrong here, but shouldn’t a coach know why his team is playing poorly and explain it to them in specific detail so they can quit doing whatever it is they are doing that makes them s*ck? So why is it, after two crappy games, no one seems to have a concensus of why they played like crap? Granted, there is more than one reason - but by now they should all know what those reasons are. Unless Hartley doesn’t have a clue himself. After watching more crappy PP last night, I’m inclined to think the latter. Although, we at least took shots - more than one even - so I suppose I “could” call that an improvement. But I don’t think I will - I’m REALLY annoyed by this PP - mainly because it has blown chunks since last December. And no one ever fixed it.
All I know is if the players don’t know why they played bad and lost, then one must infer the coach doesn’t know why either. And if coach can’t figure it out, we’re all screwed. But I got my invoice for All-Star tickets so I guess I’m at least assured of seeing one good game at Philips this year. I know - that’s harsh. But so is life.
One last thought - I really hate Dany Heatley. I do. For someone who said he couldn’t stay here to play, the memories would be too painful, he sure doesn’t seem to struggle everytime he comes to visit. He just whips up and down the ice making his pretty plays in that ugly white uniform. I really do hate him. (Although I do love Hoss.)
Ok, I’m gonna go take a Midol now, maybe a Xanax while I’m at it. If I stay this moody all day, I’ll be throwing something through my TV tonight the first time a player/ref ticks me off.
By Tony C.
October 11, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this
Well we know one thing for sure-we’ll just how much faster our team is this year if they plan to keep pace w/sabres
Midfield-excellent observation
By Midfield
October 11, 2007 1:06 PM | Link to this
Too hasty? I don’t think so. This team is dead in the water if it tries to play positional hockey (with the exception of Hossa line, may be) - it is too small and unexperienced for that. They have to skate fast and they have to skate fast all the time. Problem is, some of these guys can’t keep up mentally and/or can’t handle the puck at this speed.
By Dave
October 11, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this
Oh oh. Schultz was right….
By GaVaHokie
October 11, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this
I think both teams will have about 40 shots on goal tonight… this will be a very speedy, back and forth, breakaway game… whoever can finish their shots wins.
By **Buzilla Baby Blues**
October 11, 2007 1:24 PM | Link to this
Rawhide = Bill Tiller?
By Brian
October 11, 2007 1:32 PM | Link to this
One thing folks here have pointed out that I want to add to is the number of passes that were mishandled. However, as Rawhide points out, we get a win vs. Buffalo and NJ, we are right back in it as if the first 3 games never happened.
One thing we know about this team over at least the last 3 years is that they are streaky. Let’s end the 3 game losing streak and rip off a 5 game winning steak. We have shown some signs of life that it can happen…
By R. Stroz
October 11, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this
Forsberg anyone
By Brian
October 11, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this
Buzilla - Now that you figured out Rawhide’s real name, did you also know that Col. Mustard was hit in the head with a candlestick in the study? Sorry man, I had to ask…
By Brendan
October 11, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this
Silverpork is right on the money. “Moral victories” only go so far. I liked that Rawhide pointed out that the Thrashers’ opposition, thus far, is a combined 11-0-0. That softens the blow a bit. But what counts are wins and points. If the Thrashers finish the month with two wins or six-points, expect Jeff Schultz to resurrect his famous quote, “If this ship takes on any more water, someone will be spitting up a flounder.”
By Bob
October 11, 2007 1:55 PM | Link to this
You could explain how the Kovy-White-Sterling line played exiting hockey throughout the game. Not too many would disagree
You wrote a good blog and I hate to nitpick it, but as a couple guys pointed out above, I don’t think this is accurate. And it’s a dis-service to Kovy to even list White and Sterling there. Kovy played a great game, even though he was obviously hurt and not the same in the 2nd and third. You could see he could not stick handle as well. Probably going to be sore tonight, but he’s a gamer, I think he’ll be there.
But White showed me just a little more last night, but nowhere near what we need. And Sterling shows me nothing. His game does not translate here, he looked lost all night.
Once again this year, Kovy is stuck with no linemates, man it must suck to be him. Actually not, I think I saw his wife at the game last night, good grief, he’s doing ok there.
You are absolutely right that we’ll see much better after our next two games, Buffablow is a good matchup to see how this smurf yet supposedly quick lineup stacks up and NJ is off to a rough start.
I also agree Thorburn brought some much needed beef. X tried to bring his hitting, but I’m afraid he’s lacking beyond that, he’s a third pairing guy really. I think that’s the thing with our d. We lack a true first pairing. You could push down Zhit and Havelid to 3/4 and play X and Enstrom at 5/6, we lack a true 1/2. That’s why everyone looks so out of place, they’re playing against lines they shouldn’t be out against.
Wouldn’t mind seeing Popovic get some ice tonight.
By R. Stroz
October 11, 2007 2:04 PM | Link to this
Bob - Wish and you shall receive! Craig just reported, Klee is out and Popovic is in.
By Ric
October 11, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this
The Thrashers management has taken a team that showed some promise last season and turned it into a complete disaster.
They replaced the size, strength and scoring touch of Tkachuck with a 5 foot 7 inch rookie. They kept the weakest link on their defense, Havelid, and did nothing to bolster this weak unit. Klee is a good roll player but not the answer.
The problems of last year, when they almost slid out of the playoffs, continue.
They can’t get the puck out of their own end because the defensemen are slow and small. The centers other than Holik are to small to help get the puck out of the zone. The other team just keeps “Cycling” the puck until they get an opportunity to score.
They employ a “one man in” forechecking strategy that allows the other team to break out easily too many times and they only have two Legitimate goal scorers.
This is going to be a long season.
By Brian
October 11, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this
Stroz - thx for the update, I will be happy to see if Pops can do anything. I have to think he is chomping at the bit to get in there and will prove himself…
By Ilya k
October 11, 2007 2:15 PM | Link to this
IS IT MANAGEMENT OR THIS OWNERSHIP ISSUE????????? I am amazed that St. Louis which was almost destroyed when the club was sold has a better team now than the Trashers. WELCOME TO SPORTS HELL…..ATL STYLE
By Bob
October 11, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this
good news, Popovic was my pick for the guy to have the biggest impact, this year anyway. Little looks to have the most future promise, Enstrom’s just too small to make a big impact in the NHL, but he could be a power play specialist for us and won’t hurt anybody on the 3rd pairing.
Here’s to Pops have a good game and sticking in our top 6.
By thrashersfan
October 11, 2007 2:30 PM | Link to this
Ric, I am no Havelid fan, but you are wrong about him being the weakest link from last yr. Anyone can tell you it was DeVries hands down. He cost us more goals, and games for that matter, the second half of the season than anyone. Sutton, however, was a close second, and you don’t see him here either.
We clearly need help on the blueline, but haven’t we always!? Seriously, from day one that is an area the Thrashers have been lacking.
By UpperDeck4Life
October 11, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this
Dave which Schultz? Sargent Schultz? Love that big luvable lug.
Sterling looked better last night. Your talking about a kid that has scored at every level and been successful. His first 3 games in the AHL, he had one point and was a minus 2 and promptly got benched for the 4th game. He still ended up 55 Goals on the season, besting the next guy by 13. Give the kid a chance.
Also, when Hossa gets back…why not put him with Kovy and get it over with. The Sens keep their big guns together and they are productive. Why can’t we put Hossa and Kovy together and see if can’t get one decent line going offensively. Keep Little with Kozlov and let whoever performs better during Hossa’s absence, Sterling or Perrin, take over that RW and see if they can’t provide a decent amount of scoring depth.
By Brendan
October 11, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this
Klee should be in the pressbox. That’s a good call. I welcome Popovic back.
I want to be fair to Klee for a moment. I’ve been “critical” of him. Perhaps he still doesn’t have his “sea legs” under him just yet. I will give him that benefit of the doubt, here in October. Some teams don’t really get “up to speed” until November, in that regard. But if Klee is still this slow in November ….
By UpperDeck4Life
October 11, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this
Hey Rawhide…maybe you should talk to the Thrashers about getting you a set up.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/writers/richard_deitsch/10/08/islanders.bloggers/index.html
By Rawhide (Tired, Grumpy and in Need of More Coffee)
October 11, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this
Couple quick hits here:
A few have disagreed with my assessment of the Kovy-White-Sterling line. That’s cool. All I can tell you is what I observe. Reasonable minds can agree to disagree sometimes and I take no umbrage to dissenting viewpoints.
Please, whoever is nearest to Sara, keep the sharp objects away from her. It’s gonna be OK kid,…it’s gonna be OOOOOoooooo-Kaaaay!
ZILLA – Nice of you to catch up.
As we know, Klee is out Pops in. OK, I’m going to go WAAaaay out on a limb here and say that this will be greeting with a heavy amount of rejoicing in these parts. I am really looking forward to seeing how this guy handles the big show tonight. As for Klee, well, he has been the subject of much wailing and gnashing of teeth, myself included. Maybe he just needs a sit down.
R STROZ – I would love to think that those in the Thrashers front office are at least considering Forsberg. I can’t think one one reason not to at least try to get him if the cap numbers allow it……of course I’m sure someone will give me one.
GaVaHokie - I think both teams will have about 40 shots on goal tonight, this will be a very speedy, back and forth, breakaway game whoever can finish their shots wins.
I think you are right. It sort of brings to mind that famous quote by John Madden, “It’s going to come down to whoever scores the most points will end up having the best chance to win”.
GO THRASHERS - WIN ONE ALREADY!!!
By Rawhide (Tired, Grumpy and in Need of More Coffee)
October 11, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this
UD4L - Great! that would come to my attention RIGHT after I finalized by contract negotiations!
By Hockeyfan
October 11, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this
You could say that it is more better to play exciting hockey than *exiting hockey…
Does anybody edit this paper anymore? Other than editing out that link on the front page… ;)
By Buzilla Baby Blues
October 11, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this
Leave me alone….I am hung over
By Waffleboy
October 11, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this
Great comment from Ben over at Blueland about Kovvy. He gets way too much crap for not being a clutch player or dedicated. But this guy has been heads and shoulders above the rest of the team in the first three games and, personally, I’m sick of seeing nobody being able to play with him. As far as we are under the cap and we can’t find a center for our best player? This is ridiculous. As far as Forsberg goes, there’s no chance. First, he doesn’t want to play for a east coast team and second, I don’t think he wants to play for Hartley. He hasn’t come right out and said it, but Hartley is roundly despised by players throughout the league. If things continue down this road, Hartley will be gone before Christmas.
By Russ
October 11, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this
Forsberg is a shell of his former self due to injuries. I believe it was the Hockey News that recently had an article about Forsberg saying he has had the best doctors in the world trying to figure out the problem with his feet/ankles for the last two years and they still haven’t solved it. We don’t want him here.
By B. Thenet
October 11, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this
Lets hope that the Thrashers goalie makes a save before giving up the 1st goal tonight.
By Brian
October 11, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this
B. Thenet - I am just hoping that Pavelec gets a sh#tload of playing time in Chicago this year. There’s no way we move Kari now, but you almost have to root that he does better even if you want to trade him next spring.
By Russ
October 11, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this
I haven’t heard a whole lot said about Slava, but he needs to step up his game big time. It looked like we got the home town discount when he re-signed this summer, but so far he has been invisible except for setting up Richards perfectly for a shorthanded goal in the Lightning game…And, yes I know he has one of the five goals the Thrashers have scored, but that was just tapping the puck into an empty net after Enstrom’s great pass.
By Brian
October 11, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this
Russ - Kozzy had an opportunity or two near the net last night and missed. Those type of guys are streaky. I’m with you that I want him to get hot, but I think he will start connecting soon enough.
By Cal
October 11, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this
“Hope” is not a strategy. People are fooled thinking that “when” the Thrashers get more ice-time to meld they will beat the rest of the NHL - which is the big goal folks! Not going to happen. The players are not here. The talent is not here. The bodies are not here. It’s on most teams but with the exception of three or four of our players, the talent is just not here. “Midgets-on-Ice” don’t win Stanley Cups!
By Bob
October 11, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this
Also, when Hossa gets back…why not put him with Kovy and get it over with
Ditto, I was thinking the same thing last night watching Kovy having to go it alone once again. Get them both on the same line with Little, stick White with Kozlov and whoever, and see if Holik’s line can’t keep games close.
I would love to see Hoss and Kovy wheeling together, they both would have 100 pt seasons, methinks.
By GaVaHokie
October 11, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this
Rawhide… ouch, I always make fun of Madden for that same thing, and I just pretty much said it, didn’t I? “If the Thrashers want to win, they’re gonna have to score more goals.” :)
By GaVaHokie
October 11, 2007 4:44 PM | Link to this
It’s probably good we’re sitting Klee and Thorburn… tonights game is going to be about speed and capitalizing on turnovers.
By Waffleboy
October 11, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this
Looking forward to seeing Popovic crack the lineup.
By Chris
October 11, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this
At least that line about the Thrashers scoring more goals to win is true. We got the fictional tale from JP and Darren: “if they play like this, they’ll win most nights”. It made me think they had been beaming a faulty signal to me for the last 2 hours.
By Russ
October 11, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this
If tonight’s game ends up being as wide open as some people are predicting, Enstrom should really stand out.
By Brian
October 11, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this
Russ - nice point. I was thinking that it can be a breakout game for Little too.
By Matt H
October 11, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this
Don’t worry guys, in 3 months there won’t be enough water to drink in Atlanta, let alone make a big sheet of ice. Problems solved!
By JayBird
October 11, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this
JP and Darren are in a fantasy world if they thing they’ll win most nights if they played like last night. Yes, the boys played a lot better than the previous two games but the object of the game is to put the biscuit in the basket and we did that once. ONCE! We gave up THREE! I am a product of a bad local school system but I can figure out 3 is great than 1. Maybe I learned that at Georgia State.
By Eileen
October 11, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this
Rawhide, you are doing a great job with the blog while adding some much needed laughs (hide the sharp objects near Sara). My daughter and I enjoyed meeting you and Brendan in the lobby. Keep up the good work.
By Brian
October 11, 2007 5:07 PM | Link to this
Eileen - don’t get your Brendans & Brians confused. Fortunately there are no Bruces, Brunos, or Brads, but unfortunately there are the 45 Bobs
By ranallo10
October 11, 2007 5:14 PM | Link to this
JayBird, where did you sit at last nights game?
Biscuit in the basket was annoyingly yelled several times last night…want to discount you as being the culprit.
Hokie — You forgot that whichever team gives up less points, will probably be the team that wins. Or — if the Thrashers put more shots inside of the goal they’d score more often.
By Bob
October 11, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this
If tonight’s game ends up being as wide open as some people are predicting, Enstrom should really stand out
yep, keep an eye on that.
Don’t worry guys, in 3 months there won’t be enough water to drink in Atlanta, let alone make a big sheet of ice. Problems solved!
Sweet, do we get a mulligan on the season then?
By Bob
October 11, 2007 5:19 PM | Link to this
BTW, tip o’ the hat to Jameson, I seen where you outed yourself, even though the usual sharp knives still can’t figure it out.
Is Jameson for my favorite Irish Whiskey?
By Brian
October 11, 2007 5:25 PM | Link to this
ranollo & jaybird - not to get back to the national anthem debate, but who yelled HEATLEY after the singer sang the line about the land of the free?
By Brendan
October 11, 2007 5:36 PM | Link to this
Call me overly optimistic, but I think tonight’s game promises to be really exciting. And potentially high-scoring.
A “run and gun” game favors which team? Atlanta or Buffalo?
By Brendan
October 11, 2007 5:46 PM | Link to this
Reporter: “Coach, do you think you’ll have to outscore the opposition to win the game?”
Coach: (Takes off his head, scratches his head. Placed cap back on head and says,) “Yeah, well. That’s sort of the whole point. Ya know?”
I don’t know why it made me think of this, but I’m now picturing “Ralph Wiggum,” of the “Simpsons,” saying, “My doctor says I’d get a whole lot less nose bleeds if I’d just keep my finger outta there.”
By Brendan
October 11, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this
Sigh, make that, “Takes off his hat,” not “head.” D’oh!!
By LAC
October 11, 2007 7:00 PM | Link to this
Bob’s right, move Hossa to Kovy’s line and see what happens… Cannot hurt after THIS start.
Glad Klee is sitting, why was Hnidy so bad, he is a LOT better than Klee and at less $$$ but our GM could not wait to dump so many players.
I would MUCH rather have Belanger/Sim than this White/Perrin debacle it is AWFUL to watch.
I thought we were an EXPANSION tean 8 years ago… We are playing like we are again… is this the 10 year plan ?
I just want to see us get some BETTER UFA’s, players than MAKE A DIFFERENCE, not these retreads or one hit wonders…
For what is worth, I really think we need an entire new outlook on this team. Look what Garth Snow has done on Long Island,in his SECOND year !!!! The Isles are playing really good, They got the RIGHT UFA mix and spent some $$$$, while we remained as always cheap…
I really wonder if the owner on opening night saying They are doing EVERYTHING possible to bring the Stanley Cup to Atlanta… Yeah Right…Really meant it?
No chance there until management changes are made…
But you have to read into Andy Suttons comments about signing with NYI… “It was time for me to move on to a team that is committed to winning The Stanley Cup.”
What does THAT translate into about our team ? This year ?
Right now the Atlanta Thrashers have a GREAT chance to make their real mark on the Atlanta sports scene, but this start could doom Hossa signing again, why stay when the team is so poorly run, and you have no support on the ice, while other teams do ? Why ????????
Why ???? Can’t the ownership right the ship soon, it would help for sure !!!!!
By Rawhide a.k.a. New Ice Man
October 11, 2007 7:16 PM | Link to this
EILEEN - Nice that you decided to step out of the shadows :o) See, that was reletively painless, was it not?
Pleasure was all mine to meet you both!!!
Eileen called Brian “Brendan”, (snicker),….
By Brian
October 11, 2007 7:18 PM | Link to this
I’ll just guess and say Donald Audette for the last Sabre to get 2 SHGs in 1 game…
By JayBird
October 11, 2007 7:23 PM | Link to this
Ranallo, definitely not me last night, wasn’t at the game. I normally don’t use that phrase but I used it in my last post as a joke. You should have beaten the crap out of the guy yelling that last night. Nothing worse an annoying fan.
How about Kari? Great start tonight! I guess Hartley is trying not to hurt his delicate ego but Moose should be starting tonight.
By Brian
October 11, 2007 7:56 PM | Link to this
Rawhide - at least she didn’t call me a hockey goon…
By stendec
October 11, 2007 8:25 PM | Link to this
Sori Letemin in goal? What the Hell is Bob Hartley thinking? Team down 3-0 at this point. Typical KL! Bench the SOB. Another defeat. Thrashers going nowhere. Shown zero ability to overcome deficits. Last place finish obtainable with KL between pipes. Waited months for THIS crap? It is bad when someone makes even FALCONS look good. Completely disenchanted!
By Rawhide a.k.a. New Ice Man
October 11, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this
FINALLY, someone wearing a Thrasher logo on their chest seems to be getting mad!
Kovy was on that Sabre like stink on POOP!
Come on guys!!!! Get fired up!
By Brian
October 11, 2007 8:32 PM | Link to this
Why didn’t Stafford get an extra 2 min for not having his jersey tied down?!?!?! It is the Rob Ray rule after all… Not to mention 3rd man in, but that can even out if you give Kovy the instigator.
By stendec
October 11, 2007 8:37 PM | Link to this
Thrashers on power-less play. Guess what? Refuse to shoot damn puck. AS USUAL! Still 3-0 Buffaloes late in second period. Check that. FLASH! Piece of S++T KL allowed shortie. Now 4-0 Sabres. Ain’t life grand? KL still in. Way to go coach! You really ARE a total moron.
By Waffleboy
October 11, 2007 8:37 PM | Link to this
At least somebody’s scoring on our pp.
By JayBird
October 11, 2007 8:37 PM | Link to this
Rawhide, I just said the same thing on Craig’s blog. About time someone sacked up and showed some heart.
By Jameson
October 11, 2007 8:40 PM | Link to this
Jameson is for my first name, but just so we’re clear, Bob, I was only b0b, not Bob, bob, or BOB.
By stendec
October 11, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this
Be back in awhile. Switching to FSU-Wake football game. KL making me physically sick! Almost between periods anyway. When did Thrashers lose manhood and become female dog B+++++S? Sad to see. Truly so!
By Rawhide (Not a Happy Camper)
October 11, 2007 8:43 PM | Link to this
Well, there is a positive sign. We successfully made our way through a PP without giving up a goal.
Maybe that’s something to build upon.
By JayBird
October 11, 2007 8:45 PM | Link to this
Maybe to add incentive to the fans and possibly making the team better, to go long with the family night offer of 4 tickets, 4 cokes, and 4 hotdogs, they should offer a random fan 4 minutes at any position on the ice. Could it be any worse than it is right now?
By JayBird
October 11, 2007 8:48 PM | Link to this
Well boys, we need a 3rd period touchdown or 2 field goals to pull this one out!
By B. Thenet
October 11, 2007 8:49 PM | Link to this
Could we get some kind of clock running on the blog, how much time has elapsed since the Thrashers last W.
I wonder if Hartley is going to make suffer through the rest of the game as some kind of punishment for (in his mind) costing him his job.
By stendec
October 11, 2007 8:52 PM | Link to this
Turned it just in time to see Sori Letemin go bellyup and let another one in! Way to go S++THEAD. Now 5-0 Buffs. Hey KL fans. Please justify this debacle. I am waiting. If Hartley sends this bum back to the ice tonight HE should be fired or SHOT! I am up for either.
By dj
October 11, 2007 8:56 PM | Link to this
Well, I hate to say this but I think it’s time. Hartley got to go. I give him to the end of the road trip. If anyone blames tonight on Kari, you should leave your address on your blog so Kari can deliver a goalie stick swipe to your nuts for being that idiotic. He’s made some pretty nice saves and there is only so much one man can do. In fact, I bet Kari is wondering if once the puck gets past the red line if they only send Kovy back to get the puck. At least that way he can see it and probably stands a better chance then with our 6 million dollar top line.
By russian
October 11, 2007 8:58 PM | Link to this
This is just Horrible play. 20-8 shots. Everyone must go to Chicago and practice. First of all Hartley has to go. He’s done as a Coach. We do njot have anybody on ice today.
By B. Thenet
October 11, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this
So you thought Kari got the team off to a good start the last two games, with that softie vs. Ottawa and then the Delay of Game penalty which led to the first PP goal for Buffalo?
Kari is part of the problem.
By Kaladonis
October 11, 2007 9:05 PM | Link to this
I couldn’t help but notice but the Kohler advert on the AJC thrashers page shows a toilet flushing. It even has a little thrashers yellow thing in it getting flushed. How apropos
By stendec
October 11, 2007 9:12 PM | Link to this
See Hartley left Sori in! Shows he has given up. I am too, for awhile. FSU-Wake deadlocked. Both those teams trying. Only one making effort on Buff ice. Will check in later. Only poor pass just now kept KL from giving up ANOTHER shortie! Sad. Bye for a few!
By stendec
October 11, 2007 9:16 PM | Link to this
Thrashermaninmoon. Thanks for heads-up about Moose being in. Hope he does well over final 20 minutes. Talk to all of ya later.
By Matt H
October 11, 2007 9:20 PM | Link to this
Sheesh. This is like when I started watching the Lightning back in 95.
Only, Daren Puppa could steal a game or two.
What does it say when Kovalchuk, who was once considered the team’s most selfish player is now, well, the team? I mean, if I could put him in goal too, I would.
This is just not a team. Not a team at all.
By stendec
October 11, 2007 9:23 PM | Link to this
FSU up at half. See Moose has kept puck out of net for over half a period. KL averaged goal every eight minutes. How is THAT ratio?
By stendec
October 11, 2007 9:29 PM | Link to this
Less than six minutes left. Somebody in white PLEASE score. Do not allow being shuy out in a rout add insult to injury!
By stendec
October 11, 2007 9:33 PM | Link to this
Moose holding line! Final three plus minutes. Thrasher PP as good as Falcon offense. COMPLETELY WORTHLESS! Blank job looms closer. Go back overseas Sori Letemin and take rgar b******* Hartley with you!
By stendec
October 11, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this
Thrasher misses shortheaded breakaway! Embrace shutout. No excuses for this garbage! Moose big in final seconds. Hear that Sori?
By Matt H
October 11, 2007 9:40 PM | Link to this
Wow.
JP Dellacamera just said “Thanks for sticking with us…”
Just. Wow.
By stendec
October 11, 2007 9:41 PM | Link to this
Check that! Moose surrenders one in final 30 seconds. Perfect ending to debacle! Do not allow these losers to fly back to Atlanta. Send them north from New York! Total embarrassment! Nothing positive from winless start. GAG!
By JayBird
October 11, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this
I know the broadcasters are paid employees of the Thrashers but at what point will they actually criticize the effort and the team? Elliot caught himself from saying the team was off to an awful start and said slow start instead.
Completely embarrassing!
By stendec
October 11, 2007 9:48 PM | Link to this
Hey Thrashers! Shoot the puck. Shoot the puck. SHOOT THE DAMN PUCK! F++K PASSING. Passes may be pretty but they are not worth a damn thing! How many goals in 60 minutes? None you say? How many allowed? Six you say? How many by Sori Letemin? I rest my case KL apologists!
By Matt H
October 11, 2007 9:48 PM | Link to this
Strip the C from Holik. Kovy for Captain.
I mean, why delay the inevitable? Bobby will retire soon, Hossa will be gone by (hopefully) March in a trade.
More importantly, who’s looked more like a Captain out there? Kovalchuk or Holik?
By Brian
October 11, 2007 9:55 PM | Link to this
Matt H - couldn’t agree with you more, give the C to Kovy for the love of God.
I know that White & Perrin aren’t the best pickups, but how did we drop off so much from last year? This is not the same team and you can’t tell me that trading Klee for Sutton and then White for Rucchin, Zhitnik for Devo, this should be a better team. Outside of Kovy, they look like they don’t even care.
By LAC
October 11, 2007 9:58 PM | Link to this
Bravo to Matt H. and Brian, you guys are 110% CORRECT !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By stendec
October 11, 2007 9:59 PM | Link to this
Hey Moose. Had to let one in in final 30 seconds? Do not sink to KL level. Expect much more from you. Someone in net has to carry this sorry team. Daydreaming kid will not. Are you up to challenge? If not, cellar here we come. For good!
By Brian
October 11, 2007 10:01 PM | Link to this
LAC - (I just posted this on CC but will post here too) if this team has a self imposed cap (which is the common consensus around here), they will not pay for the extra players, right? Well, if they won’t pay for the extra players, why would they pay for 2 head coaches (which is what they would be doing if they fire BH). With that said, I don’t see them firing BH. It will take a good $500k to go out and get someone to replace him while they still have to pay out his contract for the rest of this year. Agree or no?
By JayBird
October 11, 2007 10:07 PM | Link to this
Brian, Is Curt Fraser still on the payroll? If so, we wouldn’t have to pay another coach. With Fraser, at least we knew he was clueless and he didn’t tease us.
By LAC
October 11, 2007 10:07 PM | Link to this
Brian, Yes Good point, but if the team keeps losing and fans stop attending, what DO you do, it is a fine line, but this has to stop and at least waddell should be canned, I doubt anyone has a say on players, only the GM, which he is a proven loser… Something has to be done and the GM has a BIG target on him right now, and HE SHOULD.
By woodie
October 11, 2007 10:14 PM | Link to this
Is that now 8 losses in a row going back to the playoffs last year ? Or did they lose a couple games before the playoffs began also
By Brian
October 11, 2007 10:15 PM | Link to this
JayBird - not sure if that is sarcasm or not, but BH did just get at least a 1 year extension. So he will get that money no matter what, whereas Fraser isn’t owed a dime (mea culpa if that was sarcasm)
LAC - DW is probably under a contract just as well. But I think a GM change has to come in the offseason, a coach can have an immediate impact because he can change the attitude right on the ice. What’s a GM going to do when he already has to deal with the contracts that are signed and can’t trade anyone? The coach can at least draw up some freakin’ plays to use when we are a man up for crying out loud.
By Eileen
October 11, 2007 10:25 PM | Link to this
Brian, I apologize for the name confusion.
By Brian
October 11, 2007 10:28 PM | Link to this
Eileen - I’m just happy you’re posting, no worries. At least you didn’t call me a hockey goon like the other guy did…
By Bob
October 11, 2007 10:28 PM | Link to this
Goodness. So is it going to be good old Fat Quinn? Actually Waddell won’t bring him in, he’d be afraid they’d fire him more quickly and make Fat the GM and Coach right away. Actually, that might be the best move to make quickly, probably is the ownership situation may preclude anyone competent from coming in here.
You have to jettison Waddell quickly. Hossa has to be moved for the right return, that’s our only real asset that can get us 2 NHLers and a good prospect in return, we need something like that.
This all was avoidable if they just would have ditched Don at the end of Year 5 when it was obvious he just cannot build an NHL club.
Now we have to suffer through a rebuilding, when the peak of our existence through 8 years is one playoff sweep. Brutal, simply brutal. I feel bad for Kovy.
By Sage of Bluesland
October 11, 2007 10:31 PM | Link to this
Enjoy Year Eight of brilliant Donny’s “Five Year Plan”…Soon, our bumbling Donny will come out and ‘guarantee’ us making the playoffs…
Funny, for all of the promises this guy makes—which turn out to be false—you would think he would be held accountable for a small percentage of them…
Well, I stopped subsidizing his incompetence. I hope that you do too…That’s the ONLY way things will change in the figurative joke otherwise known as ‘Blueland’…
(Maybe Donny will come up with a new slogan to rally the mindless ‘sheep’ with! Oh boy! The responses of the sheep around here are hilarious! Keep up the fine entertainment!)
By Rawhide (Not a Happy Camper)
October 11, 2007 10:39 PM | Link to this
EILEEN - I echo what Brian says. Glad to see ya posting!!!!! Please do so more.
By JayBird
October 11, 2007 10:39 PM | Link to this
Brian, that was definitely said tongue in cheek. They need a special font for sarcasm!
By Bob
October 11, 2007 10:45 PM | Link to this
Sage, I would think that even the sheep are going to finally see what the real problem here is, and has been all along.
By Brian
October 11, 2007 10:45 PM | Link to this
JayBird - yeah, I figured, I just thought I would say it with a disclaimer and that way I am covered either way…
The point is still valid though. Maybe if they get the Wolves coach on the cheap???
By JayBird
October 11, 2007 10:51 PM | Link to this
I say they do a 50/50 type drawing with two winners. $5 a ticket, proceeds to the Thrashers foundation. One winner becomes coach and one winner becomes GM.
They can get me to coach on the cheap. I am a poor college student and can be employed for a small price!
By Yep
October 11, 2007 11:10 PM | Link to this
Why would anyone even have a small hope of this team being successful? I’ve been saying it for almost 4 years now. BH is horrible. He stumbled on a good team that didn’t need his small minding coaching in Colorado.
This team will not improve enough throughout the season to become a playoff contender. I hate to say it, but season over! You’re living a pipe dream if you think we have chance. BH couldn’t motivate the Senators. I hate this team and its administration. I lost all loyalty based on offseason manuevers. Oh wait…there none…Zero.
Any move is a good move. Firing the coach and GM can do nothing but add fire to this squad. What a joke. Hence, this pitiful organization will not see my money this year. Another, and underseved, setback for professional hockey in Atlanta. Hooray for the All-Star game. It’s the only real hockey we’ll see this year.
By Brendan
October 11, 2007 11:21 PM | Link to this
I wouldn’t have thought the wheels had fallen off this badly. There was no mistaking that this was a “critical” game around which to start rebuilding the season. Buffalo is still a top team in the East, I believe. Maybe not a 112-point team anymore, but still certainly is capable enough to finish around the Century-mark on the season.
I’m not sure what firing the GM at this point would do. It’s a little early to try to hold a “firesale.” And let’s say they do bring in a new GM. The new GM will want to hire his own coach. Otherwise, he’d say, “I never hired this Coach. He was picked by Waddell.”
Now, if Waddell comes down behind the bench, that is a temporary solution. If Waddell as Coach/GM gets fired, then it would be a clean start. A new GM picks a new Coach. I’m reminded, however, that there’s still 78 more games to play. So, there’s either time enough for a new regime to salvage it … or enough time for this current tandem of Hartley/Waddell to turn it all around. What makes the most sense?
Did someone just say, “Brendan, try for the 1st overall pick, in the hands of a new GM? The time to restructure is the Summer of 2008.”
By Bob
October 11, 2007 11:35 PM | Link to this
Supposedly there’s some stud coming out in the draft this summer, go for it, we can do it!
By Brian
October 11, 2007 11:42 PM | Link to this
Bob - even if you are serious the only thing we guarantee is getting in the top 3 and I don’t want to mortgage the season on what might turn out to be another Stefan…
By R. Stroz
October 12, 2007 12:06 AM | Link to this
Fire Fartley!
By Russ
October 12, 2007 12:08 AM | Link to this
Bob - John Tavares is the next “can’t miss” prospect that I believe you are talking about. However, his birthday is 10 days after the cutoff to be eligible for the draft next year. The last I heard his agent was trying to get the NHL to waive the age limit for him so he could come out next year, but most NHL “insiders” didn’t think the league would do it. Has anyone heard anything new on this?
By R. Stroz
October 12, 2007 12:10 AM | Link to this
Tonight reminded me tooooo much of Game 3 vs. the Rangers.
By Brendan
October 12, 2007 12:57 AM | Link to this
Russ, the last I heard, (but didn’t check,) it was still off. Tavares is still ineligible. But that could change at any time.
There’s another angle to pursue. Yeah, what’s that? What would someone give you for the 1st overall pick? That’s another avenue for getting proven commodities to improve a club right away. Let’s say there is some club out there that has players they’d like jettison in favor of a youth movement? That’s something to at least consider. But chances are, those players are now getting up there in years, and command a hefty salary to boot. The results would be immediate, however.
But I think I’ve seen enough of yesteryear’s All-Stars, surviving more on reputation than actual skill, in their mid-30’s, while being overpaid. Think Holik, Rucchin, etc.
By thrashersfan
October 12, 2007 7:01 AM | Link to this
I am not a Bob Harley fan. Disagreed how he handled the goalies last yr, hated how he never swayed from using DeVries, who was clearly hurting the team, etc, etc, etc, BUT, BH didn’t put this team together, the GM did. Hartley will eventually bear some responsibility if there’s no improvement, but at this juncture, this is Waddell’s team. He let Belanger go, he signed Klee, White & Perrin, he drafted 5’8 190lb defensemen. Have we ever had a top defenseman!!!? Ever!?
Now, with all that said, and the expectations this is going to be a long season, it is early. With 10+ new players, isn’t it reasonable to give the team a little more time to mesh? They’ve only played “four” games! Grant it, four very ugly games, but let’s give ‘em a few more, say until the 15th game. I just hope they’re not 0-15!
By Fred
October 12, 2007 7:05 AM | Link to this
i refuse to watch anymore of these “games” at phillips until they make some changes. The coach and GM are both lost, which is reflected in the way the team plays. It is sad to say, but if my last name was Hossa, i would be leaving after this year unless i had a new coach and GM who were committed to building a team that can be good long term. The offseason “moves” that were made were AWFUL. We dont have one single center on this team i would Consider to be even decent. Holik is a third line center. These guys they picked up in the offseason are AWFUL. the one bright spot is the young guys. they all look pretty good, but they are not going to transmogrify into all stars this year
By PuckedUP
October 12, 2007 8:02 AM | Link to this
Transmogrify. Nice job Fred! You just sent the majority of lurkers and bloggers to the dictionary. Not sure I’ve heard that word since the one Philosophy class I had to take in college. How about this …
The transmogrification of this team from the previous year’s team is cataclysmal!
By The Villages, FL
October 12, 2007 8:14 AM | Link to this
This is painful. My son and I talked about DW’s moves in the off season. We couldn’t understand them then and still can’t. We don’t have a center that can play on the first two lines. While other teams added, we seemed to take away, not that I was thrilled with our centers last year. The only guy that I was excited about is back in St Louis.
This dismal power play is really gettting my goat. Living in Florida I got the Buffalo feed last night. The announcers were commenting on the fact that our PP is a joke. They were really impressed with our 8 shots in the first two periods, 6 by defensemen and two by White.
As I told my son last night DW and BH have to go. This is DW’s team but BH has had four years to put a PP in place and has failed MISERABLY.
I coached kids hockey in Ontario many years ago and we used to spend at least 10 minutes of every practice on how to get out of our own end. My philosphy was simple; you can’t score if you don’t get out of your own end and into the opposition’s zone. We looked like a Junior A hockey team last night; we were running around trying to catch a rabbit.
DW, your case for speed is great but I don’t see anyone willing to mix it up in front of the net. I don’t see anyone willing to go in the corner. If I was 5’ 8” I don’t think I would either. We don’t have a defenseman that can knock anyone down or at least is willing to knock anyone down except X and he is undersized.
By the way, does anyone know of another team that doesn’t have a least one enforcer? What are you thinking DW? Why didn’t someone beat the crap out of that guy that nailed Moose behind the net in the last minute last night? I was embarrassed for Moose that no one came to his defense.
DW may have his hands tied with the ownership situation but someone better untie them or get some one in the GM position that knows how to add instead of taking away.
Disgusted in Florida.
By wh
October 12, 2007 8:25 AM | Link to this
Tavares ruling is expected before the end of the year. My gut tells me he will be in the ‘08 draft.
By Brian
October 12, 2007 8:42 AM | Link to this
So whose up for trading Hossa straight up for some big name center?
By wh
October 12, 2007 8:47 AM | Link to this
Gomez, Straka and Paul Mara?
By wh
October 12, 2007 8:52 AM | Link to this
Did anyone see this game on HDNet? - OMG the play by play guy had to be the worst in the history of TV broadcasting
By Bob
October 12, 2007 8:54 AM | Link to this
Have we ever had a top defenseman!!!? Ever!?
Nope. The Coach’s don’t sign the dmen, fellas. Oh wait, it’s Fraser’s, I mean, Hartley’s fault.
We don’t have a center that can play on the first two lines
No, we don’t. And we’ve only really had one in 8 years, Savard. Coach’s don’t sign the centers, fellas. Oh wait, it’s Fraser’s, I mean, Hartley’s fault.
DW, your case for speed is great but I don’t see anyone willing to mix it up in front of the net. I don’t see anyone willing to go in the corner. If I was 5’ 8” I don’t think I would either. We don’t have a defenseman that can knock anyone down or at least is willing to knock anyone down except X and he is undersized.
Bingo. Next time you guys are at the game, get their early for warmups and look at our squad. Then look down at the other end of the ice. Then look back. Then try to not just turn around and leave right then. Coach’s can’t make midgets grow, fellas. Oh wait, it’s Fraser’s, I mean Hartley’s fault.
Tavares ruling is expected before the end of the year. My gut tells me he will be in the ‘08 draft.
There’s at least one light at the end of this tunnel.
I finally have hope. The light has come on in Blueland and the faithful are finally seeing what I’ve known for years. The problem is at the top, always has been. It’s been obvious to a few of us for years, but now that everyone else can see it, the owners will hear it from everyone (and see the empty seats) and finally fix the real problem.
I think I’ve typed this phrase on this blog for 5 years now hoping that it would sink in, but here it goes again:
Nothing meaningful will change here until we get an experienced, successful GM in here to build this club.
By Brian
October 12, 2007 9:00 AM | Link to this
wh - I want nothing to do with Straka, but if we let Hossa walk away for nothing just to use the cap room to sign Gomez or Drury, would you have done it?
By Fred
October 12, 2007 9:03 AM | Link to this
When your “pure goal scorer” is playing enforcer, there is a problem. Lehtonen has no confidence at all. I can’t figure out if he has what it takes to be an elite goaltender or not, as he seems to let in some flops. Every team needs balance! We don’t have a REAL enforcer, and we dont have a real solid center, or d man…..
By wh
October 12, 2007 9:17 AM | Link to this
I think my feelings on Hossa’s quality are well known. There are only 20 players in the world where you get equal value and none of these are going to be available. Moving Hossa will require multiple players in return. Letting Hossa walk to get the premier UFA for ‘08 nets …. Hossa. Would it be ideal to get 3 “sure thing” young talent/picks in return? Absolutely. The problem is the odds of this occurring are pretty slim as teams need young inexpensive talent to balance the cap and young guys are more of a crap shoot than NBA or NFL. I cringe thinking the Thrashers jettison Waddell and this leaves him more time to “manage” USA hockey. Side Note - Waddell interview down 5-0 and he is talking about the financial benefits to early season on the road due to competition from UGA football. Hey no big deal starting 4-11 when EBITDA improves 5% for 30 days.
Note to ownership - You are already exceedingly wealthy. You bought this team as a “toy”. If you don’t want to play to win find a new buyer.
By robo
October 12, 2007 9:20 AM | Link to this
Our glorified GM traded away the farm to make the playoffs last year. We did accomplish that, but look at us now. I know it is very early in the season, but this almost feels like the innaugural season- we haven’t even had a lead through four games and for two of 12 periods played we have been tied. This team has been poorly prepared and at this rate, both the GM and coach will be gone by mid season unless the titanic can be raised!
By Buzilla Baby Blues
October 12, 2007 9:50 AM | Link to this
We should change our name from Thrashers to Chinese Fire Drill. That may be a bit too long and not fit into the whole Blueland experience but they crap has got to stop. My @ss is still sore from last.
I am a big Holik supporter. I know he is VERY overpaid, but he does a lot of good things on the ice…normally. He is great on faceoffs, great checker, defensive minded, etc. He is not the point getter he is getting paid for but I can live with that.
Now that he has the “c” on his chest he has to do something he hasn’t done in many, many years.
DROP THE F*#&ING GLOVES…
You are the Captain. You are 6’4 (like 6’9 on skates) you are like 250lbs. Your face looks like its been through a wood chipper. FIGHT! Your team needs to know that SOMEONE (other than Kovy) gives a sh*t.
Holik things the Rat was the best Captain he has ever seen. That is because he earned it. Washington last year, you guys remember that? Vish got WAXED by Brashear, among others. It was bedlam. What does our Captain do? Next faceoff he shows that we are not a bunch of push over’s and at 40 threw down with a guy half his age.
Holik needs to fight.
That is the bottom line.
DW and BH won’t see November.
Hossa is going to leave…
F*CK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Matt H
October 12, 2007 9:52 AM | Link to this
robo Yeah, we gave up a lot last year; but are any of those young players even in the NHL this season and/or worth much of a damn? Sure, I’d love to have Metro back, but the Derian-Hatcher-in-training over in Philly isn’t close to the answer to our problems.
Keeping KT would’ve been good, but it would’ve hobbled the club for a good 3 years. At least DW wasn’t that stupid. Plus, he makes about $5,000 a goal more than he should.
The Thrashers need to make a commitment to the A-list players they have, starting with their highest A, Ilya. Show him you care. Don’t tempt him to follow in Hossa’s inevitable footsteps. Let them take over on the ice, and the ship will begin to right itself. It will be painful, with a lot of losing, but it will produce a champion. Lots of teams have gone from suck to glow in just a season or two, and Atlanta can be one of them (with the right management, of course).
Domo Origato, btw, for doing the job nobody wants to…
By Buzilla Baby Blues
October 12, 2007 9:54 AM | Link to this
please excuse the missing words in the post above.
I am angry and was typing fast
By R. Stroz
October 12, 2007 9:59 AM | Link to this
The Thrasher problem is threefold:
1) Cheap owners that don’t understand that better teams translate into higher seat sales, higher merchandise sales, and higher concession sales. If you win, financial problems are solved. But, in order to win, you need horses, not donkeys that are called horses.
2) General Manager that stops bringing in donkeys and telling the fans that horses have been procured.
3) Head Coach that uses more than one strategy for each situation. If I were a scout, I would love scouting the Thrashers. I could watch five minutes of regular play, one power play, and one penalty kill and call it a night.
By Matt H
October 12, 2007 9:59 AM | Link to this
Buzilla Those were the days :) What a great game. I’ll never forget Larsen standing there, taking it on the chin and not retaliating, like an adult with a petulant child. Then, after a few more, going after the guy.
I miss Mell. One of my all-time favorites from the NHL.
By Disgruntled
October 12, 2007 10:02 AM | Link to this
In my profession there always is a need for a leader. The person who is willing to go out and sacrifice when necessary and lead by example. The only one I see doing that is Kovy.
Who decided that Holik should be the Captain? He hasn’t taken the reigns and led. He sure hasn’t stepped up as the Center for Hossa’s line. He isn’t doing the job as a 3rd line center.
Where is the support and backup needed for each other? It is a down right shame when our #1 offensive player has to step into the role of enforcer. Is that Kovy’s job also? He can’t score from in the box.
We here nothing from DW or BH about the dismal start other than excuses. It is time that they step and take accountablility. We don’t hear much from the “C” about the poor start. It appears that Kovy has decided to shoulder the team and will them to victory. He can’t do this by himself. This is a team or should be!!
It is time to clean house. Fire DW, BH and strip the “C” from Holik. Give to Kovy where it belongs. Bring in some fresh blood from the Wolves and see what they can do. What have we got to lose? Let’s sit KL and try our new prospect and compare. Or let Moose carry the load at least he cares about the team.
The season isn’t over but we need to face facts and start over with players, coaches, and gm’s who give a d—-#!! and give 100% before it does become too late. I liked the taste from last year’s title and playoffs, we need to continue. By the way what was the owner on when he announced that the team was built to continue on its past success? What ever it is I need some.
GO THRASHERS!!
By Bob
October 12, 2007 10:14 AM | Link to this
By the way what was the owner on when he announced that the team was built to continue on its past success? What ever it is I need some.
These owners don’t know hockey, they were relying and eating up the dribble that Waddell was feeding them.
I bet the owners are even more p** than we are for sticking with Waddell and buying his into his vision, or lack thereof.
By Ilya K
October 12, 2007 10:20 AM | Link to this
WHAT WE NEED 1. A top tier player to play with Kovy 2.A top tier defensmen to split the time with Zednik. One of them on ice at all times. 3. Put Hoss with Holik and leave them together. 4. Keep playing Lehtonen. He has the skills so let him develop.
OR we can continue on the short term results path and trade away our draft picks for a short term bang that will fill a few seats!
WELCOME TO SPORTS HELL it is all about the chicken bones!
By Ilya K
October 12, 2007 10:21 AM | Link to this
WHAT WE NEED 1. A top tier player to play with Kovy 2.A top tier defensmen to split the time with Zednik. One of them on ice at all times. 3. Put Hoss with Holik and leave them together. 4. Keep playing Lehtonen. He has the skills so let him develop.
OR we can continue on the short term results path and trade away our draft picks for a short term bang that will fill a few seats!
WELCOME TO SPORTS HELL it is all about the chicken bones!
By Ilya K
October 12, 2007 10:22 AM | Link to this
WHAT WE NEED 1. A top tier player to play with Kovy 2.A top tier defensmen to split the time with Zednik. One of them on ice at all times. 3. Put Hoss with Holik and leave them together. 4. Keep playing Lehtonen. He has the skills so let him develop.
OR we can continue on the short term results path and trade away our draft picks for a short term bang that will fill a few seats!
WELCOME TO SPORTS HELL it is all about the chicken bones!
By Brian
October 12, 2007 10:46 AM | Link to this
Ilya K - Zhitnik plays here, I think Zednik is in Fla or Dallas now.
Buzilla - I think we all are calling for the C to be put on Kovy now.
Matt H - nice line about Coburn, I think most of us agree with you there.
Stroz - unless we have access to the books, it’s hard to say what the return on investment really would be, but I understand your point.
By yellowjax
October 12, 2007 10:58 AM | Link to this
We can into the season with some big question marks up front (and it is still early to to pass judgement on some of the new guys) but one area I though we had covered was between the pipes. Kari and Moose have looked dismal so far. Last night was just pitiful. I have supported BH since his arrival but man it’s getting hard. Same formations, same pass-pass-pass mentality with no quality shots and the same lack of an effective power play and penalty kill. Folks this IS NOT a matter of chemistry with new players, this IS a matter of strategy. And that rest directly on the coach. Where’s the shots? Where’s the toughness? Where’s the heart?
By Buzilla Baby Blues
October 12, 2007 11:01 AM | Link to this
I am not calling for Kovy to get the “C”. Kovy should concentrate on what he is doing now. He is playing excellent and I don’t want that to change with added responsibility. I just want Holik to step up to the plate and lean his chin in. He is the third line checking center that doesn’t fight when the team needs it.
I want 4.2 million worth in fights!!!!
By Bob
October 12, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this
It is time to clean house. Fire DW, BH and strip the “C” from Holik. Give to Kovy where it belongs
You’re right on, except wait until next year to give the C to Kovy.
It would be completely shortsighted and completely unfair to Ilya to also dump the C on him now. This mess of a lineup is what Waddell put together, and Kovy is our one bright spot (I’m discounting Hoss now since it’s obvious to even the most blind that he’s gone to greener pastures next summer, or hopefully sooner when we trade him).
Kovy already is going to have to shoulder the load this year, Waddell hasn’t even given him any linemates for years. To also dump the C on him now in midstream of this quagmire would be completely unfair and shortsided.
Let this year’s mess settle out, get a new GM and Coach in here, slap the C on Kovy and get on with building a franchise, finally.
By Bob
October 12, 2007 11:07 AM | Link to this
I am not calling for Kovy to get the “C”. Kovy should concentrate on what he is doing now. He is playing excellent and I don’t want that to change with added responsibility.
Great minds think alike, eh? It sure is nice to have you and some of the other guys that blog here that really know hockey, we can get each other through this mess.
I have to also agree with you that Holik is the one that needs to man up, just like Mel did last year.
By ranallo10
October 12, 2007 11:16 AM | Link to this
Bob, Russ, Brendan, etc — Where would Tavares rank in 2008 draft?.
Most believe Tavares, if drafted last month, would be the number two pick behind Stamkos.
Also, TSN’s Top 10 Prospects for 2008 Draft.
A few interesting reads for those looking forward to the ‘08 draft. (Not to be nit-picky, but the first article says Tavares is 5 days from the cut-off.)
JayBird — Glad to know it wasn’t you, I’ll look for the culprit next home game.
Brian — Someone in section 102 yelled “HEATLEY” during the good old Spangled. What a douche.
Bob — What sucks the most is that no matter what happens with this team over the next umpteen years, you will eventually be right about this whole GM situation. Waddell, believe it or not, will not be here forever. So now I have to worry every offseason that THIS will be the year Bob is allowed to yell “I TOLD YOU SO” because he’s been calling for Waddell’s head since (insert number of years here) seasons! You’re destined to be correct, and it irks me so.
Seriously though…paint me the ever optimist, but despite last night’s game I still have hope that this team can turn it around. I’m not blind, I know most of the stuff that is broken is due to two people directly, but that doesn’t mean this team can’t come back. My sky is falling moment will come if this team continues this poor play for the next month, but not after a miserable 3 games!
Give the team a chance before you pack it all in and start looking forward to 2008.
And if it makes anyone feel better, Belanger is the number 2 center in Minnesota, and the fans seem to like him a lot. He’s playing between Bouchard and Rolston. (I’m just adding some fuel to this already burning fire)
By Brian
October 12, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this
Bob - I don’t think anyone realistically thinks there will be a press release today that announces the Thrashers are going to strip Holik of the captaincy and give it to Kovy, 4 games into the season. It is our way of saying he is the only one of the vets that looks like he is putting out effort…
By Boulton's Bruisers
October 12, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this
Moose should start every game until further notice. Can we send Holik to Chicago and call up Pavelec?
By russian
October 12, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this
I was browisng Internet and found this news. “RETIREMENT Former No. 1 pick for the Atlanta Thrashers in the 1999 National Hockey League’s Entry draft Patrik Štefan announced he plans to retire from professional hockey. The 27-year-old, who tallied 455 NHL games and played in Bern, Switzerland, last season, is set to undergo hip surgery later this fall. He said he would not be able to return to professional hockey after surgery.” I know it is really matter right now for our Team, but he was a Thrasher since 1999. I think we need to make new Blog and name it as “Looking for New Coach” :-)
By Buzilla Baby Blues
October 12, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this
We already know how to suck. He don’t need Stephan to teach us
By Bob
October 12, 2007 12:41 PM | Link to this
A few interesting reads for those looking forward to the ‘08 draft. (Not to be nit-picky, but the first article says Tavares is 5 days from the cut-off.)
No prob, Tavares, Stamkos, Tomato, Tomatoe, whoever is the best player will definitely help us rebuild.
You’re destined to be correct, and it irks me so.
I know what you’re saying, but that’s not true, I would not be correct in your scenario. Let’s pop some shrooms and take a trip down fantasy lane and assume that Waddell can turn this around and get us in the playoffs, or rebuild it next year, the following year, or heck even 5 years from now and wins us a Conference, or dare we dream, The Cup! Then I would be wrong Dead wrong. Even if he then proceeded to later stink after getting it done and got fired later on. He would’ve succeeded, he would have done his job, and I would have been wrong all along. Dead wrong.
Back to reality, I think even the blindest of the Waddell loyalists are starting to see that just ain’t gonna happen, and that’s what I’ve been telling you all along (I know you just dig it when I do that). He just plain cannot get it done. Time to get a guy in here that can, it’s as simple as that, and long past due.
By ranallo10
October 12, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this
Don’t worry, I’m positive that in 5 years if Waddell has brought postseason success to this team there will STILL be people out there who are calling for his head. If it’s not you, I’ll be relieved, but I’m sure we’ll still have the Pucks n Sages out there who will complain no matter what happens.
By Bob
October 12, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this
Don’t worry, I’m positive that in 5 years if Waddell has brought postseason success to this team there will STILL be people out there who are calling for his head.
I would be absolutely shocked if he’s still here in 5 months (well, 6 months, seeing how the season ends in April), much less 5 years.
On Weds. night you could see how few season tix holders we have, the place was about 1/3rd full. There must be about 7 or 8,000 of us tops, the owners won’t let that continue. They can’t.
By Brendan
October 12, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this
Ranallo, I’d go with Tavares. I think Russ will disagree with me, and take Doughty, the defenseman. All three of them would be good. But for my $0.02, we need a Center most of all. Tavares is a little bit bigger than Stamkos, but an inch in height and five pounds. The difference is negligible. But my feeling is that Tavares has a very special edge to him. But, I haven’t seen him play, aside from “packaged” video clips. I’ve seen him play a game. Same goes for Stampkos and Doughty. But my “hunch” tells me … go with Tavares, if the Thrashers get any kind of choice in the matter.
Let’s say, WTH, we finish DEAD LAST. But we don’t pick until #3, due to draft lottery misfortune. Well, knowing that one of Tavares, Doughty and Stampkos will be there for us at #3 … is a bit of a comfort. It’s not like we don’t need “blue chip” defensemen, either.
By Brendan
October 12, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this
Make that, “I haven’t seen him (them) play a game.” So, it’s hard to make decisions off of video clips.
Moving right along … I want to say this again. If Marian Hossa would just TELL Don Waddell where he wants to play, as having the choice seems to be important to him, I’d bet that Waddell could pull off a “sign-n-trade.” Anyone want to hazard a guess those discussions are ongoing?
A re-signed Hossa to a 4-year deal might interest Chicago or the L.A. Kings. Those clubs have young, speedy talent that could help us right away and in the longrange future. The Kings need goaltending. What if DW packaged a re-signed Lehtonen and a re-signed Hossa to the Kings for Kopitar, Camalleri, Frolov, and J. Jackson? Or swap out a player for the Kings 1st and 2nd round draft picks this Summer.
A terrible idea? We’d still have Moose, Pavelec, and Braithwaite as goalies. Plus Free Agency to go shopping this Summer for yet another goalie.
Imagine Jack Johnson, the top D-man of his draft year, paired with Zhitnik or Enstrom. Or X. Or McCarthy. Imagine Cammalleri centering Kovalchuk. There’s no way that could fail. Imagine Frolov with Kozlov. I’m jus’ sayin’.
Now, I like Hossa. He’s one of the best players in the world. But he’s gonna cost a lot to keep. Sometimes, a windfall of previous year’s PREMIUM draft picks don’t seem so unpalatable.
By Dawggy Style
October 12, 2007 5:16 PM | Link to this
Can this team really be as bad and as totally unmotivated as they look? For conspiracy theorists, maybe we are witnessing a mutiny so Hartley and possibly Waddell will be shown the door? Something is definitely amiss in Blueland!
By stendec
October 13, 2007 7:35 PM | Link to this
Is Hartley sleeping with Sori Letemin? Switched over from UGA-Vandy then noticed it was 1-1. Thought Moose had let one in. Went into rage when I saw good old Sori back between pipes! Hartley HAS lost his F+++++G mind! Have not seen first goal of game. Let in by that no-talent SOB piece of trash. Do not need to see. KNOW it was softee! If Hartley continues to feed fans crap they deserve to lose. Will watch until second half kickoff. Sori makes me physically ill. What a F+++++G loser! To Hell with him!
By stendec
October 13, 2007 7:45 PM | Link to this
Still halftime. Another whiff job by gold old Sori. What F+++++G garbage! No-score Blue dildos now in 2-1 hole yjanks to daydreamer in net. Game over. So F+++++G sad. Forget review! Goal is goal.
By stendec
October 13, 2007 7:53 PM | Link to this
Forgive spelling. No replay reprieve for good old Sori! Back to sorry Dawgs. This game F+++++G over anyway! Even if this bunch scores a half dozen through some divine intervention then Sori would ole his way to seven whiffs! Am I the only one who can see this human trash has no NHL talent? Heartless losers. From first to worst reality not conjecture. Truly Falcons on ice!
By stendec
October 13, 2007 9:08 PM | Link to this
Well, at least the Dawgs are a field goal better than Vandy! But on to hockey. Oh my God! Thrashers had an offensive explosion. FOUR GOALS! See Sori let two-goal edge dwindle to one before second intermission. Figures. WORTHLESS TRASH! Look for Sori to allow two or more in third period! Hope I am off base. DOUBT IT!
By stendec
October 13, 2007 9:14 PM | Link to this
B+++++D in Thrasher goal could not even wait till I tuned back in from Dawgs to whiff in tying goal. Sori Letemin a true waste! What a non-talented piece of crap. Maybe the CS SOB can take over as Falcon QB!