Ice Man

By Tom

October 28, 2007 10:44 AM | Link to this

First?

Well, listened to the second and third periods. Kamal sure is a homer… :0

By Jenn

October 28, 2007 10:45 AM | Link to this

I win?

By Manley

October 28, 2007 10:49 AM | Link to this

Do I win?

I have an unfair advantage on this one. I am in Baghdad, which is 7 hours ahead. If I am first, you can discount this one, Rawhide.

The ‘blogosphere’ is my only link to Thrashers hockey this season, so thanks to all of the regular contributers on this and CC’s blog for keeping me up-to-date with the on-ice happenings.

I was beginning to think that there was at least one bright spot to not being able to watch any games—they weren’t worth watching! Listened to last night’s game and it sounds like they may be turning that around. Anyone have any clarification on the Moose penalty on the Hawks’last goal? Even the radio team did not have replay, so I have no idea what happened.

Thanks and keep up the good work keeping me informed about the Thrash!

By Bob

October 28, 2007 10:53 AM | Link to this

‘The Thrashers are 3-2-0 after the horrific 0-6-0 start to the season.’

Ok, the standard 5 game bump after the coach firing is now complete, 3-2 is what I expected, now let’s see if they can continue this and go on a run here.

Anyone know how Popovic looked

By Jenn

October 28, 2007 10:54 AM | Link to this

:( I did not win. But the Thrasher did!

By Rawhide

October 28, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this

MANLEY - If you are serving our nation in Iraq, then your the winner regardless of posting order.

I’m sure I am not alone in thanking you for you call to duty and service!!

If you are indeed military, may I ask which branch?

By kracker

October 28, 2007 11:22 AM | Link to this

From Eklund:

John Anderson next Thrashers Coach? Interviewing with Waddell.

This is from rumor central but the text of the rumor article does not actually say there was or is to be a meeting between DW and Anderson. Could be just stirring the pot, but it’s good to get conversation started.

I’d favor the selection of Anderson to see if he can make the most of the offensive potential of the Thrashers, many of which he coached at Chicago. You still have to have the good defense to win championships but let’s first get the scoring right and see where we are. Hey, our D may improve just because we are in the other team’s zone more.

By Viking

October 28, 2007 11:23 AM | Link to this

If you wonder why Hedberg got a penalty at the end of the game;

After looking at the videoclip on Blackhawk’s web site and reading their report from the game, it seems like his animated protesting caused the unsportsmanlike conduct call.

Quote: Goaltender Johan Hedberg: “I got furious that they didn’t call goaltender interference. If I’m playing in the crease and they hit me and it’s a goal, it’s goaltender interference. I think being a referee in the NHL is probably the hardest job in the world. I’m just asking for some kind of respect.

By Tom

October 28, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this

I concede to Manley, that is a man working hard for his money and his country.

God Bless you, Manley

By Manley

October 28, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this

Thanks Rawhide. I am in the Army, stationed at Ft. Benning (when I am not in Mesopotamia), but we come to ATL often for my son’s hockey and Thrashers games. He is the Mite goalie that wears the Soviet Tretiak jersey at clinics, etc. (yes, I have a Miracle replica USA jersey so we can be the “Miracle on Ice” when we are on the ice together).

Just posted on a lark, but would like to know if anyone has clarification about Moose’s penalty. Heard he was furious at the officials, so wondering what it was about. Sounded like the officiating in the third got a little out of hand. Glad Thorburn was there to take care of business, though.

By Manley

October 28, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

Thanks for the info on Moose, Viking. The delay got me!

By kracker

October 28, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this

Maybe I should be looking on the other side of the ice. In games that the Thrashers score 3 or more goals they are 3-1.

And it would be 4-0, except for the collapse against the Devils at home on 10/13.

At this point, one could make a good argument that the Thrash are a bit better than their record indicates.

By Brian

October 28, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

Manley - thank you, and let me know the next game you go to so you can have a beer on me.

By Baldheaded Thrasher

October 28, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

SO MUCH FOR THAT LOGIC: My first post cited that I would be using the shot against stat to gauge how the team was doing, (over/under 30 SA/G). Well, so much for that. All three wins so far have us giving up more then 30 shots. (Sound of crinkling paper as I toss out that stat sheet). Maybe I should be looking on the other side of the ice. In games that the Thrashers score 3 or more goals they are 3-1.

Did some numbers today and found out that the Thrasher’s under BH were 23.5 SF and had 34.3 SA. DW is a little better with 25.2 SF and 33.4 SA. Now, what did surprise me is that we have ONE win when the team shot less than 25 and that was last night with just 22 shots.

DW has to get help at center or start filling out his resume!

Later.

By puckjunque

October 28, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this

Rawhide You’re all that and a bag of Po-ta-toe chips It looks like I’ll be posting another prayer next game. Look at my post, did we get grit, teamwork, retaliation? Scary! Any suggestions for the next one? Manley Thank you for serving our country and may God watch over you too! If I have a fall from grace, I vote you for the next Thrashers Spiritual Leader. I think the higher power should have you on the radar.

By Brian

October 28, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

puckjunque - all that and a bag of potatoe chips? Where are you from, Buffalo or Louisiana (only 2 places I knew of that sold those things). Oh yeah, if you are going to be a spiritual leader for a group of right wingers on this hockey blog (even guys like me that played defense are right wingers, pun intended), thanking Manley is a good start, but you need to know that it is God with a capital G.

By kracker

October 28, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this

And also know that potato isn’t spelled with and “e”. Just ask Dan Quayle.

Dan Quayle and the ‘potatoe’ kid

By Brian

October 28, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this

kracker - I just did a cut & paste from above, but took out the dashes and uncapped the initial. I should’ve caught that one too…

By puckjunque

October 28, 2007 5:56 PM | Link to this

Brian

Who Does Number Two Work For??? Rawhide is quoting Dr. Evil so I quoted him back. I’ll be sure to capitalize my G from now on. And since when does spelling count on this blog? Mr. right-wing d-man, does my sensitivity make you uncomfortable? LOL You must be a native.

By Rawhide

October 28, 2007 6:36 PM | Link to this

If PuckJunque calls it “po-ta-toe” chips,…then it’s “po-ta-toe” chips! I don’t care what Brian, kracker or Dan Quail say, as much as I like all three.

PJ apparently has an “IN” with the Great Thundermaker in the Sky and I, for one, am not running afoul of him/her because if it.

By R. Stroz

October 28, 2007 6:51 PM | Link to this

Rawhide - I didn’t drop my coffee, it came out my nose.

By Brian

October 28, 2007 6:59 PM | Link to this

Actually, I am quoting the actual potato chip product that uses that slogan…

So who else here things I’m a native???

By Jenn

October 28, 2007 7:04 PM | Link to this

THE REVOLUTION WILL NOT BE TELEVISED!

By puckjunque

October 28, 2007 7:43 PM | Link to this

For the record, Brian said things not thinks so I’m not the only idiot that can’t spell.

Jenn, what revolution are you yelling about.

By kracker

October 28, 2007 7:56 PM | Link to this

Puck, I think that maybe is a saying in the vein of “The beatings will continue until morale improves.” It also is a lyric from a Public Enemy song, a film and probably other things, too.

By Rawhide

October 28, 2007 9:33 PM | Link to this

One of my favorite lines in that light came from Tampa Bay Buccaneers coach John McKay during their inagural season in 1976, (they went 0-14). When asked by a reporter how he felt about the execution of his team’s offense he relpied, “I’m all for it”!

By Tony C.

October 28, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this

Jenn yer funny.

“We changed things up a little bit; we put Bobby Holik in front of the net there and caused a lot of traffic,” Waddell said of the power play. “It opened up opportunities for other players.”

No foolin’ Donny? You mean you put the big guy in the crease and it was like, easier to score? Whoa! You may be on (to) something dude.

Manley - I believe you can d/l games via nhl.com Centre Ice. You used to be able to, at least. Also, YahooSports shows NHL games sometimes. Thanks for your service! -How much was the Tretiak sweater?

Rawhide-Telling point regarding McCarthy…can anybody report on how Popvic looked?

GO BLUE !!!

By Brian

October 28, 2007 10:13 PM | Link to this

Tony C - the game wasn’t even covered in Chicago from what others said, so I don’t think anyone outside of the United Center saw if Popovic was good or bad. Looking forward to Tues though.

By Brendan

October 28, 2007 11:12 PM | Link to this

90-points would be a “frustrating” finish, Rawhide. More often than not, 90 is not good enough for a playoff spot and it’s nowhere near favorable enough to command a high 1st round draft pick.

But, that’s why you can’t quit. One year the NY Isles made the postseason with only 83-points. It wasn’t decades ago either. It was just 2002-03. But answering truthfully, something tells me 93-points will be the cut-off this year. It’s just a hunch.

Rawhide, if it takes 3-goals to get a win, as our minimum, we do have to worry about having seven of our first 10 games resulting in two goals or less, including three (3) shutouts.

It’s a shame about McCarthy’s plus-minus. Maybe he should be limited to PP minutes? I really hope Popovic stays up and Klee sits. But if McCarthy is in the pressbox, I can certainly understand it.

By Brian

October 28, 2007 11:33 PM | Link to this

Brendan - I was just checking some scores and I looked at the standings & Thrashers again. I don’t know how I missed this (well, even CenterIce didn’t show the game, that’s how), but Sterling sat as well as McCarthy. DW had a 4th line of Thorburn, Slater & Boulton. They got 4th line minutes, but it seems like that may have given us a true punishing type line. I think I like that move as much as getting Popovic in the lineup.

Also Brendan, I am keeping tally too (I have us mathematically finishing at 91.2 points and missing the postseason). However, that is mathematically only. Do you really want to count those first 6 games or even the first 10 games? If this team continues past the 5 game streak that Bob calculated them at, anything can happen. Right now I am going to put away the spreadsheet and sit back and enjoy the ride…

By Brian

October 28, 2007 11:37 PM | Link to this

Brendan - oh yeah, not only did Sterling sit for Thorburn, but Dupuis sat for Boulton…

By Brian

October 28, 2007 11:40 PM | Link to this

Looking at the D, Popovic was obviously on the 3rd line. But it looks like they had him with Zhitnik. The other 4 all played equally, gotta believe though that Enstrom was out there for key PPs.

By Manley

October 29, 2007 3:15 AM | Link to this

Brian—Won’t make a game this season, since I’ll be here until next summer (around the Cup Finals), so just say thanks to the next Soldier you see—that will be enough.

Tony C.—Not even close to enough bandwidth for Center Ice Online. Trying to watch video clips even on a 56K setting is jumpy! I do listen to the radio broadcasts when I am on base, though. Can’t remember how much I paid for the Tretiak sweater. Got it off eBay a couple years ago.

Brian—I liked the Thorburn-Slater-Boulton line when I read about it. Surprised Larsen played and Sterling sat, though. When the young guns are working this hard, I would hesitate to sit any of them. The more games they play, the better they will get—and they are definitely not the problem with this team.

Hope for the future—just looking at the results sheet is depressing, but look at last year’s. There are several stretches with more Ls and Os than Ws (remember Jan-Feb?). February was just as bad as this OCT (2-7-2 after 11 games). Maybe we just got the slump out of the way. Plus, we can always look forward to the game when Hossa shows up, and the kids are going to keep getting better.

By kracker

October 29, 2007 7:54 AM | Link to this

I like your optimism, Manley. I’m a realist but I have also seen plenty of sporting games where huge comebacks happen, so don’t give up until there is no time to tie a game or to get the 8 spot. We have 71 games to play.

By GaVaHokie

October 29, 2007 8:41 AM | Link to this

Great blog Rawhide! Well constructed!

I gotta think this has to be the week we land a coach. Starting this Saturday, we have 8 Southeast division games in a row.

You’d think this bodes well for John Anderson for bringing in someone who’s most familiar with the players and has the best offensive mindset for a smallish, speedy, elusive team.

By GaVaHokie

October 29, 2007 8:53 AM | Link to this

I’d like to point out that Kovy and Kozy combined for 2 goals and 2 assists playing on the same line… just as evidence for all of us calling for Kozlov to Center Kovalchuk’s line… granted one was on the Power Play, but Kozlov is great in front of the net and quick to pick up “trash”.

By Jenn

October 29, 2007 9:15 AM | Link to this

Puck - The Thrashers’ revolution will not be televised just doesn’t have the same ring to it. But that’s the one I’m referring to, what with the “stats” on their play when games aren’t televised (2-0-0).

By kracker

October 29, 2007 9:22 AM | Link to this

DW has had 5 games, it took him 10 last time to hire Hartley. By the end of the road trip would be pretty quick. Maybe after the Caps game? Even if it’s to be Anderson, I think DW still waits a few days to “consider” other people.

By GaVaHokie

October 29, 2007 9:41 AM | Link to this

I would imagine he met with John Anderson while they were in Chicago this weekend.

By Brian

October 29, 2007 10:40 AM | Link to this

GaVaHokie - When Kovy & Kozzy were on the same line together, they had either Little or White centering them, so Kozzy will not be an option for center. The other wingers for the 2nd line were Hossa & Perrin (again, with either Little or White). Haydar - Holik - Larsen was your 3rd line and I covered the 4th line above.

The other thing to consider is that Kovy could have just stayed on the ice a bit longer (which he does a lot), made a pass to Kozzy before he got off the ice, Kozzy then scored, and they weren’t even on a line together.

GaVaHokie - oh yeah, nice catch on the DW being in Chicago obsevation. Maybe they had talked Sat afternoon or on Sun?

Manley - maybe we can dream of you coming home to Philips Arena for the Cup Finals? Hey, it can still happen easily. I liked your comments on the slumps. Maybe we just got it out of the way and play .650 hockey from here. I was surprised that Dupuis sat instead of Larsen from the Holik line. Sterling is still young, but since they were going to breakup the Wolfpack line to bring in the enforcers, Sterling made some sense. He’ll see more time though.

kracker - I am with you that I too think we have at least a week before a new coach comes.

By Brendan

October 29, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this

Sitting Dupuis … hmmn. Sitting Sterling … hmmn. Well, it comes down to this. A player isn’t “entitled” to ice time. A player has to earn it. Sometimes sitting a guy helps him to focus. Let’s see what comes of this. I do like that we had a bit more “grit” out there with Thorburn and Boulton.

How ‘bout this Patrick Kane kid, 1st overall pick by Chicago this Summer. He’s on the NHL leaderboard with 14-points in his rookie season. He’s all of what?, 175-pounds? And I think something like 5’9”? With Toews and a few others, I think Blackhawk fans may enjoy the coming years.

In years previous, they let all sorts of “big” names come and go. There’s a laundry list of them somewhere in a previous blog. When you view the list of names that passed through the Blackhawks organization between 1993-2005, under the Wirtz Administration, it’ll make your head spin and think about what might have been for that once proud franchise. Chicago issss a major hockey hotbed. It’s only mismanagement that has kept the fans away. When the Blackhawks become a contender, watch that city sellout every game. They are an “Original Six” market.

By GaVaHokie

October 29, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this

Brian and kracker… I don’t know… it seems foolish to me to bring in a new coach in the middle of an eight game string of division games.

I’d think if you don’t bring in a coach this week, Waddell should coach until the end of November.

Just my opinion.

By Brian

October 29, 2007 11:07 AM | Link to this

GaVaHokie - I just told that to Rawhide that seeing the way the team is playing now under DW, if they continue why not keep him at the bench? I had some other points too, so I am starting to buy into Brendan’s plan of having him coach it out.

Brendan - if you want to bring in the enforcers that many on this blog were calling for, someone has to sit. I wasn’t as surprised at Sterling going down for a game since the Wolfpack was going to be broken up for this game. But I would’ve sat Larsen instead of Dupuis…

By Brendan

October 29, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this

I think it’s got to be a “game-by-game” decision. When we’re going up against a very physical team, maybe Boulton and Thorburn are the way to go. Other nights, against less physical opponents, where we might need a bit more speed, we go with Dupuis and Sterling and sit Larsen and Boulton.

By Jenn

October 29, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this

Just thinking about it now, I’m surprised that DW sat one of the WolfPack for a game in Chicago. Echoing Brendan, I know players aren’t entitled to ice time, but it was a sort of homecoming for the rooks. Oh well. There’s no room for fluff and bunnies in hockey.

By kracker

October 29, 2007 11:56 AM | Link to this

If DW wants to target a date to change coaches, the Thrash have Nov. 25-28 (4 days) off. DW can make the hire, have the new coach begin during those days off. Perhaps better yet, have him start Friday the 23rd at home against the Devils or the next night at Pittsburgh to get a game or two look at the team and then have the four days off to get in two long practices with his new team.

This only works for me if DW can coach the team to get 11-15 points from the next 10-12 games. That’s a bare minumum number of points needed to just tread water until a new coach gets here, then we have to win big during Jan thru the first half of Feb.

Can DW do it? Can the current Thrashers keep us in it until a new coach arrives? Will DW make any trades as all this happens?

By Brian

October 29, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this

kracker - the only thing I would say for sure is that no trades will be made. Not only is it too early to push the panic button, but it takes 2 teams to make a trade. Who else is looking to trade right now?

By Rawhide

October 29, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this

Just wanted to say that Rstoz is doing better. There were only minor burns to his nostrils after reading that Todd White was the second leading scorer on the team and promptly snarfing his coffee through his nose. Mrs. Stroz is actually grateful as the much-needed nose hair trimming was taken care of via the singeing.

Thank you Jenn for clarifying the “Revolution” remark. I have called off the N.S.A.’s surveillance of your every move and conversation. If you see any black helicopters hovering above, pay them no attention.

Manley - My 9th grader, in JROTC, asks me to send you out a giant, “MOTIVATED, MOTIVATED - DOWN RIGHT DEDICATED - OOOOOOOOOO-RAH!!

Now…

If I may make a few comments about the “poll” regarding the coaching vacancy the Thrashers are dealing with. These on-line polls are normally inane and the only ones silly enough to think they hold any scientific value live in Livonia, Michigan. But for fun let’s run with it. To me, there are really only two options, not the four listed.

1. As to Bob Hartley not deserving to be fired. I actually fall into that camp, however, it’s irrelevant to the situation at hand. He was fired and Don Waddell isn’t going to call him up saying it was all a big misunderstanding, please come back. It’s water under the bridge now and we must move on.

2. I would even say it would be appropriate to allow DW to remain behind the bench and coach the rest of the way. I mean, he is 3-2 after taking control and he is the one would put this squad together. But here is the flaw to that logic: If he does, and the Thrashers fail to make the playoffs, then who’s going to take the fall? Now, I don’t mean that in a condescending fashion, but let’s be honest, no matter what you think of the man he isn’t stupid. Why would he hang his neck out there only be the only target for the axe if it needs to swing in April?

So, that leaves me with this, John Anderson or someone who has NHL coaching experience, Like a Pat Quinn or Pat Burns or (insert name here). I’m not saying I am in the camp of either scenarios, but at least those are logical ways to go IMHO.

Trixie will be passing around a Get Well Soon card for RStroz, please be sure to sign it.

By Thrasher Ryan

October 29, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this

It seems to me that DW MIGHT finally be starting to “get it”. It’s way past the time for Thorburn to play. Glad he finally cracks the lineup. We need him and Boulton in there most nights. Also glad to see Popovic get a shot. I know McCarthy is -12 or whatever, but maybe DW could sit Klee or Zhitnik, even Havelid, instead. Scratching Sterling makes no sense to me. Sure, it’s taken him a little longer to get going compared to some of the other “rooks”, but he’s done a lot more for the team than Slater or Larsen. I would keep things as they are and scratch Slater, Larsen, and Klee. Why does Jim Slater always seem to be getting a “free pass”?

By Brian

October 29, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this

Rawhide - when you say Why would he hang his neck out there only be the only target for the axe if it needs to swing in April?, what makes you think it is DW’s choice? It is possible that the owner’s are the ones that told DW to go behind the bench or pack his bags. IF that is the case, why wouldn’t DW want to go behind the bench for the whole year?

Also, when you state “But here is the flaw to that logic: If he does, and the Thrashers fail to make the playoffs, then who’s going to take the fall?” If a new coach comes in next week and doesn’t get the team to the playoffs, DW is gone anyway, so it’s not like someone else will take the fall and DW stays. Regardless if there is a new coach or just DW behind the bench, if the Thrashers don’t make the playoffs, DW is gone, new coach or not.

By Brian

October 29, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this

Thrasher Ryan - It seems to me that DW MIGHT finally be starting to “get it”. He did that in his 5th game as head coach. You make it sound like we are 40 games into the season of benching the enforcers. The guy only coached 4 games (of which he won 2) before he made the changes. Let’s see what he does going forward.

By GaVaHokie

October 29, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

I think the month of November is way too important to throw just anybody behind the bench… I want someone familiar with the team.

If Pat Quinn is serious about coaching this team, I hope he’s watching a lot of tape. Otherwise, it has to be either Don Waddell or John Anderson behind the bench.

By Jenn

October 29, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

I think GaVaHokie is on to something, but at the same time, while we’ve won 3 games now with DW, the other 2 have still been awful (from the game summaries I’ve read, as I’ve been working nights and have missed a few games this month). They’re either there and making headway, winning a game or two, but still not acting like contenders, or they’re just completely phoning it in. I want to Believe in Blueland and I want to see the guys Unleash some Fury, but I don’t think DW is the man guide them to it. They’re still not really playing with passion or force.

I don’t know a lot about the applicants for Coach, so I don’t know if Anderson’s history with the WolfPack, Lehts, Exelby, etc, is enough, but it really seems evident that Don’s not the man to lead these guys through the playoffs, or even through the crucial months of November and December. I mean, way to go, getting those 3 wins in, but the way they played in those games probably won’t cut it against division rivals. And I’m not saying that with any preconceived notion about how the other teams play, or where they rank. I’m mostly going on the Thrashers’ history against these teams, and if we’re lacking passion, we’ll get stomped. Can a man like DW really inspire? Because that’s what these guys need right now.

By Thrasher Ryan

October 29, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

Brian—I am not defending DW in any way. All I was saying was that I was glad he (DW) finally put Thorburn back in. I disagreed with his (DW) decision to scratch Dupuis and Sterling. DW should be scratching Larsen and Slater; and in the meantime be looking for a place to ship them via trade/cut/waivers, etc. That’s all.

By Tony C.

October 29, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this

I do have to admit that I’m kind of looking forward to seeing DW blow a gasket after a bad call. So far he’s been kind of fun to watch behind the bench.

GO BLUE !!!

By Brian

October 29, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this

Thrasher Ryan - why do you continue to use the word finally? He finally put him back in? It’s been 4 games since he started behind the bench, it’s not like he FINALLY did something after months of nothing. You are exagerating his player lineups.

Again, stop thinking of trades. It is too early to push the panic button in Oct and as well, it takes 2 teams to complete a trade. What other team wants to trade now?

Did you guys see that game where Holik’s line took the face off and after 15 seconds coach FINALLY put Kovy on the ice?!?!?!?!

By Thrasher Ryan

October 29, 2007 5:29 PM | Link to this

Again, stop thinking of trades. It is too early to push the panic button in Oct and as well, it takes 2 teams to complete a trade. What other team wants to trade now? Brian—This team is 3-8-0. If you have a better idea, i’d sure like to hear it.

By Brian

October 29, 2007 5:55 PM | Link to this

Thrasher Ryan - I could just say go get Sidney Crosby, but let’s deal in reality. And realistically speaking, a trade is out of the question right now just like thinking that Sidney Crosby will be our solution. We are just going to have to rely on better lineups & more motivated play from our vets when you start out 0-6.

By Logan

October 29, 2007 7:01 PM | Link to this

For the record Chris Thorburn isn’t a rookie. He played 39 games in the NHL last season.

By R. Stroz

October 29, 2007 7:12 PM | Link to this

Brian - Apparently, according to Craig (other blog), DW is talking about doing something. Let’s hope he doesn’t pull the “panic button” and get fleeced. In other words, I hope he puts the future of the team before his immediate job security.

By Brian

October 29, 2007 7:14 PM | Link to this

Logan - Who said Thorburn was a rookie?

By Rawhide

October 29, 2007 7:34 PM | Link to this

One of the big knocks against BH was that he was too stubborn. He would stick with a PP or a line or a player regardless of the outcome, right???

Well, hearing that DW is at least keeping the communication lines open is a very, very good thing. It means at least that he isn’t sticking his head in…the ground…and refusing to at least allow the possibility that the current roster isn’t 100% there yet.

He isn’t sitting in his Blueland Bunker and hoping the current roster will do.

Maybe he makes a deal, maybe he doesn’t,….I dunno,….but to cover his eyes and ears would be un-good. For him to be afraid to make a deal because it might not work is un-gooder still.

By Brendan

October 30, 2007 12:59 AM | Link to this

Rawhide, I’ve got to say that … I won’t rule out a trade. But I’m inclined to think that, at this early juncture of the season, the only trades we’ll see are disgruntled players who want “out” of their various camps.

“Okay!! Let’s do it, then!!”, I hear some say. But, it’s necessary to be prudent about accepting some other team’s “problem child.” Even if it’s Marc Savard??!, I hear some “snicker.” Yes, that’s essentially how Savard got here, lo those many years ago. But those situations are the “exception that prove the rule.” And just to SQUASH any misinterpretations … Nooo!! Marc Savard is not coming back here. Even if he were having lockerroom problems with the Bruins. I couldn’t rightly tell you if he is or isn’t.

Okay, so … I want you all to search your memory banks. Go wayyyy back. Through the years, the Wadster has dropped a few names that he’d like to have here. And he has made roster decisions with TEAM USA that have led to raised eyebrows, because of some of his personal preferences in players.

Is there any name on that “Waddell list” … that is available … and would come here? I’m kind of at a loss to come up with one. I would have said, “Klee,” but he’s already here. Okay, there’s one name that keeps popping into my brain.

BUT IT WON’T HAPPEN!!! No, it’s not Forsberg. And it’s not Bondra. And it’s not Niedermayer. Or Jason Allison. But right after the lockout ended in 2005, there was another player on Waddell’s “wish list” besides Bondra. He had unfruitful talks with this player’s agent. That player’s name was … (drumroll please) … Teemu Selanne.

Fah-geddah-bout it. It won’t happen. Ifffff Selanne comes out of hiatus, (he’s not officially retired,) it will probably be to play for the Ducks. And right now, Anaheim is truly feeling the losses of Selanne, Niedermayer, and to an extent, Dustin Penner. They just blew a game to Edmonton when they took a lead in with about eight minutes left in regulation. They couldn’t hold it and lost in the shootout. That’s the way their early returns have gone as the “hunted” Stanley Cup Champions. Selanne is not young. And he’d only come back for the chance to repeat as a Stanley Cup Champion. As optimistic as I like to be about the Thrashers, I simply cannot think that Selanne thinks the Thrashers are the “pony to bet on” in that regard. So, anyone else got any ideas on who Waddell might be targeting, if he’s targeting anyone?

By Rawhide

October 30, 2007 8:31 AM | Link to this

BRENDAN - Your points are valid and well worded, as per ususal. My only contention is that I think it is good thing that DW is open to the discussion, regardless of whether or not a deal is done.

To be honest, the Thrashers are in less dire straits then 10 days ago and I think we need to try and address our issues from within the system, (i.e. The Wolves),…..but if there is a deal to be made to address our center concerns, then I want him to at least consider it.

That’s why he makes the big bucks, you know.

By GaVaHokie

October 30, 2007 9:54 AM | Link to this

There won’t be any moves from the Wolves… there is a roster limit, and you can’t bring guys up without sending other guys down, and most of those players have to clear waivers first.

Any changes will come via trade.

By GaVaHokie

October 30, 2007 9:58 AM | Link to this

I just don’t think Waddell is dumb enough to try and sneak Popovic and Thorburn through waivers just to take a peak at Valabik.

By Buzilla Baby Blues

October 30, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

Great deal…

$15 for upper bowl $30 for lower bowl

password to use is “FRIEND”

http://www.ticketmaster.com/promo/crgss6?camefrom=CFCATLTHRASHERSE_T102907

By Buzilla Baby Blues

October 30, 2007 1:23 PM | Link to this

Oh,

This is a one day sale for the Washington and Carolina game. So if you are thinking about getting tickets do it now.

By puckjunque

October 30, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this

Well here goes……..

It won’t be easy, but the greatest victories never are. It will take hard work, determination and teamwork down to the very last second, but it will be worth it.

Bow your heads, hands joined on keyboards

Oh Heavenly Father, Please guide the Thrashers to greatness tonight, empower them with unrelenting energy, confidence and boldness to kick some Habs a$$! AMEN!

By Brendan

October 30, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

I agree with you, RAWHIDE. I hope Waddell keeps those lines of trade communications open. He does get the big bucks to manage this team. And he holds a “big card” in Marian Hossa, as well.

By Rawhide

October 30, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

A-FREAKIN’-MEN, P.J.

Aller Thrashers. Battre les Habitants de Montréal !

By Brendan

October 30, 2007 6:14 PM | Link to this

A-men, Puckjunque.

Allez-y, Thrashers!! ConquErez les Habitants!!

Buzzila a ajoutE: “Enseignez bien ces grenouilles!!! Ils sont des singes vaincus qui mangent du fromage! Instruisez-les-bien!!”

(What Buzzilla was saying there is … Teach these frogs a lesson. They are cheese-eating surrender monkeys! School ‘em well!”

By Rawhide

October 30, 2007 7:50 PM | Link to this

Hey Zilla….Warum sind die Straßen von Paris mit Bäumen liniert?

Deshalb kann die deutsche Armee in den Schatten marschieren.

By Brian

October 30, 2007 8:23 PM | Link to this

Ok, I really like the chemistry between Kovy & Haydar out there tonight. They had some nice passes to each other. I think you can tell these are not regular Thrasher commentators when they say “Kovy has been a totally different player since the coaching change. Well, Hartley did bench him last year, does that mean something?” Everyone on this blog knows that Kovy was giving 110% from the start of Game 1.

By Rawhide

October 30, 2007 8:34 PM | Link to this

Ja sind Brian, Sie richtig. Ich denke… oh,…sorry,…uh,…Yes, Brian, you are correct. I think it’s fair to say Kovalchuk has been a driving force from the start.

The other comment I heard that got my attention was that they lay the blame to the Thrashers situation at the feet of the ownership, not DW. He was given an ultimative to make the post-season, “or else”.

Well, they said, he made the deals needed to do that, but look where that leaves ‘em now…..

By Brian

October 30, 2007 8:37 PM | Link to this

Rawhide - who have we lost from those trades that would help us now? Vishnewski, Bouret & Coburn? That still puts us at 0-6.

However, gotta love the shots totals from the 1st, eh?

By Rawhide

October 30, 2007 8:41 PM | Link to this

I’m just saying what I heard…

13-2,….oooh, boy!

By Brian

October 30, 2007 9:15 PM | Link to this

Hossa is about a move or two away from having a breakout game. Gotta love the Perrin goal, but could that be an assist that might get added for White on that Perrin goal? IF so, Stroz will have smoke coming out of his ears…

By Rawhide

October 30, 2007 9:19 PM | Link to this

If White keeps playing this way, RStroz will have to find another use for that package of Charmin.

By Brendan

October 30, 2007 9:21 PM | Link to this

I came here AFTER the CC blog. But I posted my anger over the Kovalchuk comments and the ownership comments there.

During the 2nd period intermission, they asked Holik, “After an 0-6 start, how realistic is making the playoffs for you guys?” What a “loaded” question.

Holik answered, “We can’t think about April. We’ve got to think about tonight. And maybe next game vs. Ottawa. We’re playing more disciplined now.”

By Rawhide

October 30, 2007 9:24 PM | Link to this

EEEEEEEEEEEEE-GREEEEEEEEEEEEE-GEOUS

By Brendan

October 30, 2007 9:27 PM | Link to this

I’m actually thinking about emailing TSN to correct them on the Kovalchuk “efforts” since Day One of the season. There are some players that fans might want to accuse of lackluster efforts to get the coach canned. That’s a bit misplaced. But no one can name Kovalchuk in that category.

He’s deserved the “C” since the season began.

By Brendan

October 30, 2007 9:55 PM | Link to this

Tob-ee-as Enstrom??? They’ve mispronounced his name all night. Right now, folks, Moose Hedberg has been the story in the 3rd period. This 5-on-3 PP, which never should have been, has results in several nice saves by Hedberg. The goaltender has to be our best penalty killer.

Klee is back on the ice!!! Penalty over!!! It was a “horrible” call to begin with.

By Brendan

October 30, 2007 10:01 PM | Link to this

Habs on the PP again. And now the Habs score to tie it, 2-2. Todd White was in the box for tackling Kovalev.

Well, give the Habs enough opportunities and they will cash in. They’re one of the top PP units in the NHL. Higgins got the goal.

By Brendan

October 30, 2007 10:05 PM | Link to this

Carey Price has played well for the Habs. Hossa had a chance to win it with 0:04 left in the 3rd. When will he break out???

By Brian

October 30, 2007 10:19 PM | Link to this

GOOOO MOOOOOOOOSSSSEE

GGOOO KKKOOOOOOOOVVVY

GGOOO LLLLIIIIIIITTLE

By Christy

October 30, 2007 10:22 PM | Link to this

Gotta tell y’all, I can’t wait to read the “Your call” postings on TSN web site after this one.

I’m going to be enjoying my cup of coffee in the morning.

By Brian

October 30, 2007 10:24 PM | Link to this

Brendan - I am furious at TSN too, I posted my comments about the commentators above, but the camera angles drove me nuts. I cannot stand that behind the net view on the PP, it’s not like when you are at the game and you can see the whole ice. You can’t see where the puck is and what is going on at the blueline.

Then, the camera angle on the Kozzy shootout attempt was another horrible angle and the ref end up in the way, so you couldn’t even see a thing.

GREAT WIN THOUGH!

By puckjunque

October 30, 2007 10:26 PM | Link to this

Brendan, Thanks for the updates, NHL.com still has us 2-2 in the third period.

By Brendan

October 30, 2007 10:28 PM | Link to this

Party’s on at the Starbucks stand inside CNN Center tomorrow morning, Christy!

Woo-hoo!! No Hossa in the 2nd spot. Little slid in. And Boy HOWDY!!! He “undressed” young Carey Price. Kozlov made a nice move, but didn’t score. And Kovalchuk won it with a snap shot in the 3rd spot!

All in all, not a “bad” road trip so far with wins in Toronto and Montreal and Chicago. Waddell is 4-2 since taking over for Hartley. That’s 8-7-1 overall, liftime, for the Wadster. TSN commentators are joking about Bobby Holik calling him, “The Don” during a 2nd period intermission.

By Christy

October 30, 2007 10:33 PM | Link to this

Brendan, will be in that line early, picking up a pumpkin spice latte to enjoy as I read the am postings and see the highlights since I haven’t picked up Center Ice yet.

Goodnight all.

By Rawhide

October 30, 2007 10:33 PM | Link to this

PJ - Your prayers are 3-0-0. You definately have an “IN” with the Great Thundermaker in the Sky!

By Brendan

October 30, 2007 10:41 PM | Link to this

Absolutely, Brian. When Kozlov was dekeing in the shootout … and then all of a sudden, the ref’s butt obscures the whole screen … and then all you see Carey Price’s toe sticking out with the puck in front … I was mad. No, not just because Kozlov was stopped. But because the view was inexcuseable. Was this even a real Canadian TV crew? They looked like “rank amateurs.” This is their national sport, for cripessakes.

By Brian

October 30, 2007 10:45 PM | Link to this

Brendan - what was worse is that from that angle, the puck looked like it was going in. Then when they went pack to the replay from the center ice angle (the only angle they should use for the whole game, except on replays), you can tell it wasn’t going in…

By puckjunque

October 30, 2007 10:54 PM | Link to this

Thanks for your support, I could use a few more amens for the next one.

By Viking

October 30, 2007 11:21 PM | Link to this

Brendan, if they pronounced Tobias Enström’s first name “Tob-ee-as”, they actually sounded like what he is used to from home. In Swedish, the letter “I” is pronounced as an English “E”. And his last name, is not pronounced Enstrom. It is supposed to sound something like “Enstruhm”. But he will get used to it. Believe me.

By the way, do you notice how many minutes he is on the ice? Tonight it was 27:33.

By Brendan

October 30, 2007 11:54 PM | Link to this

Viking, thanks for the Swedish pronounciation guide! And you’re right, it’s impossible not to notice that Toby Enstrom has taken over the blueline duties. Even more amazing about it, he’s not that big. Klee did play and McCarthy sat. Popovic played.

TSN commentators seem to think Niclas Havelid is the world’s best 5-on-3 defender in the NHL, with all the glowing “praise” they heaped on him. But truthfully, he was in the sin bin for a “pick play” when the Habs scored. And if you saw that play, it was a totally unnecessary “pick.” Havelid just wanted to step into that guy.

Now, I’m not saying Havelid had a horrendous game. But he wasn’t our best defenseman on the night, either. And, despite one “catty” comment, the TSN announcers had nice things to say about Exelby. They mentioned that both blueliners were 8th round picks.

By R. Stroz

October 30, 2007 11:57 PM | Link to this

Rawhide & Brian - After Todd “Charmin” White’s penalty which led to the tying goal, I don’t think he’ll be losing the “Charmin” nickname anytime soon.

After watching the tying goal, I wonder if any of Rawhide’s tax exemptions will be available to TP Mr. White’s house tomorrow evening.

By R. Stroz

October 31, 2007 12:01 AM | Link to this

punkjunque - You really know how to grow a congregation!