AJC > Sports Thrashers > Blog > Archives > 2008 > February > 01 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USWith Or Without You
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Apparently there is a great deal of emotion and opinion out there regarding the hit on Ilya Kovalchuk Wednesday night by Jarkko Ruutu of the Pittsburgh Penguins. My thoughts, of course, have been made known and others had their say. Needless to say there were many comments posted by those who disagreed…some more cerebrally based than others.
I did notice a few saying something about karma catching up with Kovalchuk given his antics after scoring goals. OK…if you’re going to say that Kovy got what was coming to him because of “karma”…do you also say that Sidney Crosby’s injury was “karma” given his propensity to dive like Greg Louganis looking for penalties and displays to refs more whining than a Democratic National Convention when the calls don’t go his way?
Regardless, the play will be reviewed and a decision will be made about the incident. We’ll see what happens.
Moving along…
Kovalchuk, of course, will be out for the two games against the Sabres and Washington this weekend. Stating that these are four big, fat, hairy, important points hanging out there for the Thrashers would be quite the overstatement. So, the team is going to have to show the testicular fortitude needed to fill the void left by the team’s leading scorer and just go out and win those points.
If you think about it, the team is in the midst of playing five consecutive games in which Ilya has missed all or a great deal of those games. Starting with his ejection in the Rangers game last Tuesday, then his serving of a one game suspension the next, followed by missing half the game Wednesday after the hit on his knee and now losing two games due to the subsequent injury. Currently the team is 1-1-1 in that stretch.
Does it suck having him out of the line up? Sure, no one is going say differently. But that’s the hand that’s been dealt and the team needs to just cope with it.
The above-mentioned Crosby has been out due to an ankle injury incurred while playing Tampa Bay on the 18th and the Pens have had to deal with the loss, (going 2-3-1 without Sid the Kid including the Lightning game). So it isn’t like the Thrashers are trudging through with something foreign to other teams.
With or without Kovy, tonight’s game would be a gut-check. As Blueland will become infested with flying banana peel jerseys, Atlanta will take on a team that dropped ten on them two weeks ago. Putting aside the fact that Buffalo is tied with us in points, (but have played 3 less games), that last game alone should be incentive enough to come out strong. There is no excuse for a player to not be up for this. Otherwise, they don’t need to be picking up a paycheck.
The same is true for tomorrow night as the Thrashers fly off to Washington for a meeting with the hottest team in the Southeast Division in the past couple of weeks.
So, even if Kovy were in the line up, the next couple of games would not be easy. Without him…even more so. But that’s where others need to fill the gap and play up to, even above, the situation.
( .\/. ) Yes, I’m looking at you, Hossa, Holik, Recchi, Kozlov, White and Perrin.
Comments
Commenting is now closed for this entry.
By Thrasher Ryan
February 1, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this
Rawhide—So are we all in agreement that the Thrashers need to win 19 of the next 29, right? A good start would be to win these next 2 games.
By Russian
February 1, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this
As I said, that we can collect two points today. It will be ugly, but it is possible. We are probably winning on SO. Score will be 4:3 Atlanta SO win. But no way we will get at least one point at Saturday. I just did not see how can we beat Ovy???? If someone like Boulton injure him and his butt will be pounded by Bashir, that might give them a chanse to win. But otherwise we will get 0 point. I hope we will win today!
By Rawhide
February 1, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this
MRI confirms no damage to Kovy’s knee…good news indeed!
By timm
February 1, 2008 1:02 PM | Link to this
gut-check
I like it.
By puckjunque
February 1, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this
Allright People, Can I please have some AMENS??
Bow your heads, hands joined on your keyboards
Oh Heavenly Father, Thank you for listening to our prayers and for the many ways you have blessed the Thrashers. Please place your healing powers on Ilya Kovalchuk and inspire this team to rise up and play to the level of dedication that he has shown this team all season. Please lead the Thrashers tonight to play up their strengths, dominate and show no mercy in kicking the Sabres a$$! AMEN!!!
By FormerIslesFan
February 1, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this
You know, I would never wish what happened to Kovy to befall our team, but you have to admit, we’re really going to see over the next few games what this team (and Hossa in particular) are made of.
I will be there tonight rooting for our Boys in Blue aginst the Slugs!
By Rawhide
February 1, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this
A-FREAKIN’-MEN!!! Very well done, PJ!!!
Now, Let’s go PEEL THE BANANAS!!
GO THRASHERS!!
By timmythebrave
February 1, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this
Amen. I want REVENGE from that embarrassing game the other night. Go Thrashers!!
By Brett
February 1, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this
The Thrash may have a chance tonight. Tomorrow night is a different story. The Caps are on fire and Ovy has been nothing short of amazing. Kovy’s injury couldn’t have come at a worse time. Thankfully the injury is not major. Let’s go Thrashers!!!
By five_hole
February 1, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this
I’m really starting to get annoyed with almost every post you make displays your anti-democratic anti-liberal reactionary conservative bias. It’s unnecessary and not germaine to a HOCKEY BLOG. Please stop or get yourself a conservative blog.
By Thrasher Ryan
February 1, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this
AMEN, PJ! I see a 3-2 Thrashers WIN tonight! The fights will come early, too.
By Thrashers27
February 1, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this
Ha!
Five hole,
Shut your pie hole. Whining like that is exactly what he’s talking about. Freakin’ hippie!
We’re all Thrashers here!
Preach on brother Rawhide.
By Bob
February 1, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this
…displays to refs more whining than a Democratic National Convention when the calls don’t go his way?
And five-hole comes back with:
I’m really starting to get annoyed with almost every post you make displays your anti-democratic anti-liberal reactionary conservative bias. It’s unnecessary and not germaine to a HOCKEY BLOG. Please stop or get yourself a conservative blog
So five-hole whines and calls Rawhide anti-democratic, yet tells Rawhide to stop
You gotta love the irony and further proof from five-hole of precisely why Libs have the whiny rap they do.
I feel good about Moose stepping up tonight against Buff-a-blow and about the boys playing well in front of him. Then we need Kari to step up and hold the Craps to 2 goals or less tomorrow.
What’s the best thing to come out of Buff-a-blow? shrugs, I dunno
By Rawhide
February 1, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this
(sigh)….
OK, Thrashers27 & Bob - let’s not allow half a dozen words from my post take away from the point of discussion.
I made an attempt at humor to try and lighten the mood and Five_Hole took exception to it. He is in his rights to say as much as this is OUR blog.
Five_Hole - Your remarks have been so noted and logged.
So, can we now focus our attention to the Sabres and Caps game…..
By Alan
February 1, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this
AMEN PJ!
As for tomorrow… Washington might be on fire, but I believe we have a chance against them. Unfortunately, our back-to-back record is less than stellar. I wonder if Kovalchuk practiced today?
By Carlos
February 1, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this
But he doesn’t have the right to NOT be offended. Carry on Rawhide! Nice line!
By JayBird
February 1, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this
Are you saying Sidney Crosby is gay and has HIV since you compared him to Louganis? Sorry, couldn’t pass that one up!
Hopefully the boys will play like they did against the Penguins. I do worry that they will be too jacked up to avenge the beatdown in Buffalo a few weeks back. If they keep their cool and play smartly, it should be a good game.
By ToF
February 1, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this
Five Hole I say this as a fellow hippie: let it go. We are in GA and completely outnumbered.
As for tonight’s game: should be a good one. I’ll be there rockin’ out (and rippin’ Buffalo cheering section that always shows near me a new one). 4-2 Tornado Birds with the W.
By The Other Bob
February 1, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this
What’s the best thing to come out of Buff-a-blow? An empty bus?
By R. Stroz
February 1, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this
five_hole - We live in a republic, not a democracy.
In a republic, individuals choose other individuals to represent them.
If YOU are going to make political comments, please represent our form of government correctly, whether you vote for an elephant or a donkey.
By Bob
February 1, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this
and rippin’ Buffalo cheering section that always shows near me a new one
Sweet, rock on brother. BTW, I used to be a hippie as well, then I started paying taxes. I kid! sort of…
If you need some new material to get on the Buff-a-blow fans with, Other Bob came up with a good one there, may have to steal that one myself if there’s any within earshot.
By Rawhide
February 1, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this
Alan , Unfortunately, our back-to-back record is less than stellar - Right you are. The Thrashers are, I think, 5-13-2 in all games back-to-back this season and 1-8-1 in the tail end games of such. Un-Good.
JayBird - Ugh!
ToF - They do come out in numbers, don’t they?…And rowdy as can be. There really is only one way to shut ‘em up..and a 4-2 win would be just the thing.
By five_hole
February 1, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this
Rawhide - Thanks.
Bob - When I said anti-Democratic, I meant against Democrats, as opposed to against Republicans. Rather than try to listen to what I was saying, you decided to generalize and demean.
To the others like Thrashers27 show their level of discourse; anyone who reads your diatribe can only shake their heads. It doesn’t belong here. Act like an adult.
Trying to move back to hockey, does anyone know who will be promoted to Kovy’s spot? Is Kari back in goal?
By Jethro
February 1, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this
The best thing to come outa Buffablow is a native American Indian.
By Jethro
February 1, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this
five_hole - Sterling gets Kovy’s spot and Mooose is in goal.
By Rawhide
February 1, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this
Five_Hole - Kovy’s spot will be filled by Sterling…not sure how the line-ups shake out. Starting tonight will be Moose with Kari tomorrow.
By Rawhide
February 1, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this
How in the world did Jethro beat me to that?
By Alan
February 1, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this
A 4-0 win would be the perfect way for Atlanta to celebrate Recchi’s 40th.
With Recchi scoring all four goals. That would be spectacular. And unlikely.
By The Other Bob
February 1, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this
What’s the best thing to come out of Buff-a-blow? - The sewage spewing out into Lake Erie, maybe? Well, at least it tends to smell better than the inhabitants.
By five_hole
February 1, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this
R. Stroz I don’t believe I made any political comments and didn’t comment on our form of government. I objected to political comments being made (consistantly) from one side of the spectrum, in a forum where it was inappropriate.
And to all, I don’t believe that objecting to hearing that one side should automatically classify me as a hippie, a pinko facist or any other label you’d want to throw on me. All I asked for is to hear hockey.
Can anyone explain to me why they sent Kwiatoski (sp?) down? I thought he was playing well. Frankly, I’d rather see him than Zhit or Klee in the lineup. I’d have included McCarthy, but he was the one who stood up for Kovy and that earns him the right to stay in the lineup for awhile.
By The Other Bob
February 1, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this
Five_Hole - Calm down….it was a funny line. Let it go…
Now, regarding Kiwi, I completely agree with you. Zhit should sit and Klee should be in the press box.
As for Mac, I think RH said it the other day….his actions the other night wipes his +/- slate clean, figuratively. Finally someone acted to defend a teammate after a nasty hit.
By Jethro
February 1, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this
Well, I’m just waitin on those bananer pealin slug fans to show up tonite.
Just put some new tires on my truck and wunderin how many of them yankee scum I can get in the tire tread before the game.
By Republican
February 1, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this
Five_hole - lighten up. That is precisely why he says that stuff. Because people that think like you do get all in a bother. We hear this kind of stuff all day long in the AJC and the majority of media. Invoking liberalism where it does not need to be. Examples would be how is golbal warming going to affect sports in 50 years, Katrina, etc.
You just need to lighten up.
Go Thrashers! I will be there tonight cheering them on.
By Jethro
February 1, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this
This is fer them Pittsburp fans that missed my last entry on yesturdays blog.
That Ruutu feller should be renamed Tutu cause he bends over quicker than a drunk Alabamer cheerleader.
Furst, that Tutu feller comes at Kovy trien to show him some leg. Well, Kovy aint that kinda guy, maybe Cindy likes that kinda stuff.
When Kovy moves, that Tutu feller shows him some more leg and jumps into the Thrasher bench. I think that Tutu feller needs to freqent Swingin Richards if he’s into boys.
Anyway, Mac comes up and the next thing you now, Tutu is bent over the bench, but I dont think Mac is into that kind of thing so Mac just hits the stupid wuss.
Well, there’s anuther Pittsburp game comin up soon, I hope that Ruutu feller buys his Tutu in time cause he’s gonna get taged all night long.
By thehig
February 1, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this
kovy is a whiner and a wimp. The player missed him and got a 5 for kneeing and 5 for fightinh. The pens got screwed! kovy should have been a soccer player the way he screams like a girl and lays on the ice, but usually comes back fine 10 minutes later. He hurt his knee getting out of the way of a normal check. Until Waddell is gone, I could care less about the Thrashers. See Team U.S.A
By thehig
February 1, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this
kovy is a whiner and a wimp. The player missed him and got a 5 for kneeing and 5 for fighting. The pens got screwed! kovy should have been a soccer player the way he screams like a girl and lays on the ice, but usually comes back fine 10 minutes later. He hurt his knee getting out of the way of a normal check. Until Waddell is gone, I could care less about the Thrashers. See Team U.S.A
By Jethro
February 1, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this
thehig - If you dont care about the Thrashers, what are doin on this blog?
You are just anuther one of them Pittsburp pinup gurls vistin a real mans blog.
Go put yur Tutu back on and call Ruutu over fer a good time.
By The Other Bob
February 1, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this
TheHOG, I could care less about the Thrashers - You cared enough to write all of that crap above. Why would someone take time out of their busy day to write anything about something they don’t care about???
Must be some mental issues going on there, hog boy.
By Alan
February 1, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this
Republican - That is precisely why he says that stuff. Because people that think like you do get all in a bother
What does that have to do with anything? The way you talk about Rawhide, you make him sound like Sean Avery. Un-good!
This politics s** is getting old. I’ve had to listen to primary talk and potential candidate talk since the last election. I come here for hockey, not to see someone wearing their politics on their sleeve and inaccurately berating someone for taking exception to something else that was said. Unless the Presidential Debates are going to be presented in the form of a hockey game, I really don’t want to hear anymore about it.
The Other Bob - Read what thehig said carefully: I could care less about the Thrashers
/GrammarNazi=ON
If one could care less about something, then there is some degree of caring in there. He may care a lot about the Thrashers. Thusly, it is possible to care less.
What he probably meant is “I couldn’t care less” … meaning, it is impossible to care any less than he already cares (not at all).
/GrammarNazi=OFF
By Thrashers27
February 1, 2008 7:17 PM | Link to this
Five hole, you do have a point this is a “hockey blog” for and about the Thrashers, but the fact of the matter is that Rawhide’s duty keeping fans engaged on this blog with his creativity. No matter how he goes about that it’s HIS blog. Don’t read it, if you don’t like it. I enjoy listening to the music on Dave FM at noon, but can’t stand listening to Mara Davis blab on and on and on. Do I complain about it? No, I turn it off.
We may not agree when it comes to politics, but I think we can all agree that hockey is awesome and that THRASHERS HOCKEY RULES!!!
GO BLUE! HANG TEN ON BUFFALO!!!
By five_hole
February 1, 2008 7:17 PM | Link to this
Alan Thank you. That is precisely my point.
Now, can we kick some Sabre A$$?
By Brendan
February 1, 2008 7:51 PM | Link to this
Amen, PJ!!
Goal!!!! Mark Recchi!!!!!!! 1-0, Atlanta!!!
By Thrasher Ryan
February 1, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this
It’s 3-2 Buffablow after 2. It was 2-0 Thrashers going into the 2nd, but the fact of the matter is the Thrash just got FLAT OUT-HUSSLED in the 2nd! Un-good!
Recchi nets a goal on his 40th birthday. Nice… Holik got one too.
The funniest part of this game was in the 1st period when they showed the graphics about the Mullet night promotion and there was a lady wearing a Buffalo jersey with a HUGE MULLET! Freakin’ Hilarious!!! MAD props to Sportsouth on that one!!!
Moose was doin fine in the 1st; Now he kinda seems a little too antsy. He needs to calm down a tad for the 3rd and focus on NOT getting caught out of position. Gotta fault a couple of those on him.
I hope some Thrasher offense shows up in the 3rd!
GO BLUE!!!
By Michael Shapiro
February 1, 2008 10:09 PM | Link to this
Once again Charmin fails to put his stick on the ice for the tying goal. Sigh.
By Thrasher Ryan
February 1, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this
Whoa… RH I thought I put that post in @ 9:15!
Shootout time!
Waddell better use Sterling!!!
By Thrasher Ryan
February 1, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this
Thrashers WIN 5-4, SO!!!
Perrin with the GW!
Way to go BLUE!!!
Go beat some Crap-ital A$$ tomorrow night!
Gotta win 18 out of next 28!
By five_hole
February 1, 2008 10:47 PM | Link to this
The Good - What a wild 3rd period! Enstrom needs to shoot more; no 2 ways about it. And who would have guessed that Perrin would be the hero?
The Bad - How useless was Todd White; missing a redirect into an open net. And can someone please tell the Moose to stay in the net? He seems to rack up an embarrassing number of “cheap” goals like that.
The Funny - “You can’t stop Slater, you can only hope to contain him” - Darrin Elliot after Slater scored his second goal of the season (consecutive games) Do what you want with the rest of the team but this management has to sign Mr. Elliot to a long term deal. That was absolutely priceless.
And finally - I debated whether to reply to Thrashers27; I should take the high road, but … I can’t leave well enough alone. Here’s the deal; apparently you’re a “it’s my blog, love it or leave it” kind of guy. There are inclusive people and exclusive people. I think you’re an exclusive kind of guy, and that makes you an a*******hole. It’s easy to turn off a radio station. How many hockey avenues are there in Atlanta? All I want is a place to talk/read about hockey. Rawhide apparently understood my point (that makes him an inclusive kind of guy). That’s all I’m asking.
By Russian
February 1, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this
Finally we got two points. Why did we play so nervios. My brother and me finished whole bottle of vodka. I almost put emty bottle to TV. We just got lucky. Thanks Toby to made us live.
By stendec
February 1, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this
Thrashers pulled one (extra point) out. WOW! What a shootout goal. Goalie had to go back after score to retrieve jock strap. Doubted outcome after fourth Sabre marker. Glad to see Thrasher blast go in during closing seconds (it is FAR better on this side). Moose was not stellar but steady. Except, of course, on one brain-dead stroll away from net. Home guys prevailed but did nothing with quick 2-0 lead. Marian Hossa came to play. Not so much with other Thrasher veterans. Hated to give point to Niagara Falls buffaloes but things could have been worse. Not scoring on power play in overtime did not prove costly. THIS TIME! Thrasher power play is like Falcon offense. Bottom of the barrel! Can anything be done? PK squad deserves no praise tonight. Well, maybe a little. Thrashers need to be skating when they depart from plane in Washington, DC. Every point is critical. Good night all. GO BLUE!
By Rawhide
February 1, 2008 11:38 PM | Link to this
In the past day and a half, I’ve been called “civil” by the Ruutu-apologist TheCousin…and now called “inclusive” by my friend Five_Hole.
@&$#….I AM getting old! Pass me my Geritole…I’ve lost my edge!
LOL!!!
By Nix
February 1, 2008 11:44 PM | Link to this
Wow. We gave that game away in the 2nd and stole it back at the very end. While that 2nd period was all kinds of ugly, I have to give the boys in blue credit for staying in the game and making plays that mattered at the end. And kudos to all the Thrashers fans in Philips tonight. That was some awesome energy there at the end. I’m not sure if I’m going to have a voice tomorrow :-)
By Alan
February 1, 2008 11:55 PM | Link to this
five_hole - Enström definitely needs to shoot more! He’s racked up the assists, but he should have more goals this season with the way he shoots. He could easily win the Calder if he continues lighting it up.
I’d also call Enström a hero along with Perrin. If it weren’t for his goal in the closing seconds, we would have walked away with zero points tonight.
I’d also like to thank Clarke MacArthur and Toni Lydman for taking those penalties so late in the game and giving us a 6-on-3 opportunity. Stellar work!
By Jethro
February 2, 2008 12:16 AM | Link to this
Well, I guess them Pittsburp and Buffablow pinup gurls will crawl back into the hole they came from. You should have seen them stupid yankees crawl outa Philips with their tail between their legs. Those obnoxius twerps shure get alot quiter when they lose.
There just aint nothin better than a yankee with his mouth closed.
By R. Stroz
February 2, 2008 12:27 AM | Link to this
I’ve been harping on Hossa most of the season for not playing up to his capacity, well tonight, he deserves praise for his performance.
Tonight, I watched the real Hossa. He checked players into the boards, dropped his shoulders and drove to the net, and skated full speed. The fans at Philips really responded well with numerous Hossa chants.
By Alan
February 2, 2008 12:46 AM | Link to this
Stroz - The fans love Hossa and really want him to stay. If he would become more consistent and play like that all the time, it would be worth keeping him. He’s a valuable asset to this team, but only if he’s being consistent.
By Rawhide
February 2, 2008 12:53 AM | Link to this
I put the eyeballs on Hossa, Recchi, Kozlov, Perrin, Holik and White…. ( .\/. ) … to let ‘em know I was lookin’s at ‘em to step it up in Kovy’s absence.
I would say they came through tonight.
If I have to call one of ‘em out it would be Todd White for not having his stick on the ice when that puck slid past the goal mouth.
DW needs to tape 6 pucks to the back of his blade…..
By Brendan
February 2, 2008 1:07 AM | Link to this
Tonight, Hossa played like a guy who didn’t care if he ever signed another contract. It was good to see.
By Alan
February 2, 2008 4:58 AM | Link to this
Joy of joys. From the ESPN Thrash at Caps preview:
Lehtonen is 0-3-0 with a 4.06 GAA in his last three starts against the Capitals.
I certainly hope Lehtonen and the rest of the Thrashers can help improve that number considerably by winning over the Caps.
By Midfield
February 2, 2008 9:08 AM | Link to this
The lesson from yesterday night is this. Enstrom, shoot the f-ing puck. Just shoot it. Then, once in a while, fake a shot and slide it over for an empty-net one-timer. We have but a lone shooter on the blue line who took - what - 5 or 6 shots so far (half of them last night)? Come on.
By Rawhide
February 2, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this
( .|. ) - Looking at Kari to play like he did Wednesday night! I seems that a rested Kari is a good Kari. Also looking at Enstrom to play well like last night!
( .\/. ) - Scolding, watchfull eye on the likes of Hossa, Recchi, Holik, Kozlov, White and Perrin again….escpecially YOU White…keep your stick on the ice and Holik, NO stupid penalties.
They must play up again to make up for Kovi being out!
( | ) - MOONING all the Sabres fans as they leave Blueland… SEE YA!! I got another one here for Philly next week!
By Bob
February 2, 2008 11:12 AM | Link to this
Nice to see Hoss finally give his all, that’s the Hoss we know and love. Kudos to him for stepping it up in Kovy’s absence and helping the club. Perrin, nice move.
Kari plays well when rested, need a big game out of him tonight.
By thrasherbob
February 2, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this
Toby Enstrom 4 goals, 28 assists….. One thing became very clear to me last night after the game and the more I thought about it the more p-offed I got. And then I remembered the Young Stars game and how Toby kept passing and not taking shots and it just enflamed me more. Who told Toby Enstrom that he is only good for setting up goals and not making them? This person needs to get his head examined! I don’t even want to think about where the Thrashers might be right now if Toby was encouraged to take the shot instead of pass the puck from the beginning of the season. Every team we go up against is on Kovy like white on rice, it’s clear to me we need to get goals elsewhere. I hope we capitalize on this boys talent this season and not squander it away. Go Thrashers!!!
By Jethro
February 2, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this
I’ve been wunderin all seasun if this Hossa feller had been takin it eazy or was just gettin older and slower. Well, after watchin the game last night in person with my crew (yes, good ole Jethro can afford to buy tickets), Hossa still has all his gears left.
I’ma beggin to think this Hossa feller is just pushin these bunch of girlie men owners to spend some money and get sum top rate players instead of thurd rate retreads.
So give them owners hell Hossa and get us sum good dmen and top tier centers anda full time coach. Maybe Hosser is really helpin us but we gotta go thru sum pain to get to the promised land, no not that promised land, that big silver cup named after Stanley Tools.
By Midfield
February 2, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this
I don’t think anyone here told Enstrom to pass. I think that this is the way he’s taught to play in Sweden. With larger rinks and mostly smaller players, European style of play is more of a tape-to-tape puck movement in search of a clear look on goal. He needs to snap out of this mindset.
By Thrashers27
February 2, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this
What a whiner you are, corn-hole! Try being a man and learn to deal with circumstances as they are…you know, like how you learned to lift up your skirt so you don’t dribble on it when you squat to pee. Fricken girl!
And now I’m done.
GO THRASHERS!!!
By thrasherbob
February 2, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this
Midfield I think you’re right. Toby…..snap out of it!
By Thrasher Fan
February 2, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this
Okay, too good to pass up, Washington is giving away Ovechkin Potatoheads tonight, the resemblance is frightening…..
http://dccheapseats.blogspot.com/
By scott
February 2, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this
I agree with previous posters about Hossa’s play last night. Very nice effort. Something got him mad in the 1st and he got and stayed very physical for the rest of the game. I looked at his slide into the end boards several times when I got home. It wasn’t a dirty play, but the defenders stick was right under his skates when he tried to stop. Nice Hossa chant from the crowd when he got up. He will be missed in this town. I hope we get good value for him.
Echoes also on Toby shooting the puck much more - it could generate rebounds, open things up more for Kovy (maybe the guys down low too), or even go in the net all good things.
Let’s kick some butt against those Washington liberals - oops I mean hockey players, I’m all for keeping this blog focused on Hockey.
By J(Z)
February 2, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this
After the game when Hossa was named the #2 star and didn’t come out…that said it all to me. He may have played well, but he’s gone. Trade him. The sooner the better.
Eric Perrin’s shootout move was unbelievable!!!!! Kozlov has now missed 4 or 5 straight shootout attempts. He used to be money in the shootout!!!
By puckjunque
February 2, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this
Let?s have some AMENS!
Bow your heads, hands joined on the keyboards
Oh Heavenly Father, Thank you for listening to our prayers and for the many ways you have helped this team. Tonight we need to see every Thrasher give their all for the entire game, no excuses. Please empower the Thrashers to be driven, relentless and merciless in their pursuit of victory tonight and kick the capitals a$$! AMEN!!!
By Rawhide
February 2, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this
A-FREAKIN’-MEN!!! Thanks PJ!
Now, let’s go WHIP WASHINGTON!!
GO THRASHERS!!
By Tony H
February 2, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this
AMEN PJ
By Alan
February 2, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this
Amen, PJ!
Let’s kick some Capital a*!
By Nix
February 2, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this
Amen, PJ!
By Manley
February 2, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this
Amen, PJ!
Sounded like a great two periods last night(separated by an extended intermission known as the second period) and I am very glad they didn’t fold in the third after giving up the lead. Of course, the Grand Kamalian makes even a snoozer sound pretty exciting so it is always hard to tell on the radio.
It did sound like Hossa was more like his old self and that is a very good thing.
As for Enstrom not shooting, I have been to some European games (quite recently, actually) and they did seem to make three or four passes where a North American would have shot it and expected the guy at the crease to clean it up. And the only defensemen I saw taking shots were either on the powerplay or a North American transplant. This was a limited sampling, of course, but it reinforced what I have heard elsewhere. When you combine the fact that Enstrom played a few more years there than the average European NHLer and he is on the ice a LOT more than the average rookie defenseman, then maybe the European tendencies stick out a little more. If he starts shooting more often (and makes modest gains in his +/-), then there is a good chance the Calder will be coming to ATL!
Anyway, here is another Amen for a strong finish to this back-to-back series!
LET”S GO THRASHERS!!!
By Manley
February 2, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this
Speaking of European hockey, my wife’s cousin coaches a team in the Italian pro league and I went to a couple of those games last month. The atmosphere was terrific! Remember the scene from Norway in “Miracle”? (You know you have the movie memorized.) The rink was just like that: a slight fog over the ice, kinda dark, small but very passionate crowd. It is a far cry from Blueland and our beloved Thrashers, but it was definitely a good time and it is the only live hockey I will see this season.
Warning: Shameless Bragging Follows My 8-year-old superstar goalie is playing in the Italian Under-10 travel league and is undefeated with two shutouts and a GAA of 0.78 through 7 games in a league where scores are usually like 12-9. I know you didn’t ask, but I couldn’t help bragging. If any of you saw the Mite goalie with a Soviet Tretiak jersey around the rinks last year, that was him. I got to see a couple of his games while on leave and couldn’t be prouder.
Now, if Kari tries really hard tonight, he can be as good as my boy!
LET’S GO THRASHERS!!!
By five_hole
February 2, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this
AMEN PJ.
Tonight’s game is going to be tough; We’re on the back side of back-to-back games and the Thrash (with their old legs) don’t seem to play particularly well in those games. And Washington with AO and Backstrom on the same line are red hot.
PJ seeing as how you’re connected, can you put through a message to have Waddell sit Klee or Zhit and put Pops back in the lineup? Appreciate it.
By PJ
February 2, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this
Manley, you must be so proud. I’m glad you enjoyed your leave.
A Big Woo-Hoo to Mini-Manley!! Way to go!!
Everyone Thanks for the AMENs!
By Alan
February 2, 2008 5:21 PM | Link to this
I remember a piece from the AJC earlier in the year where Waddell said he learned the Swedish word for shoot (skjuta if I recall correctly) in an effort to get Enström to shoot the puck more often. Did he go lax on that, just forgot to tell Enström to shoot more often, or what? Enström doesn’t take many SOG, but I think last night was the first time I’ve heard the announcers on the radio say “Enström shoots” in a very long time. And judging by their reactions, Enström must have a pretty accurate shot. Comparatively, Zhitnik always seemed to “go wide” or “miss the net.”
By PJ
February 2, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this
Okay, so if I’m getting this right….
Zhit - Sits, Pops - starts, Kari - Focus!, Enstrom - Shoot, Slater - scores! Hossa - Show up, Recchi - Who’s old?, Holik - No stupid penalties, Mac - Klobber em’, Perrin - do it again!
What I miss?
By In midst of Idiots
February 2, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this
Tonite could get ugly. Thrash must play a strong defensive game (is that possible, lol) and Kari will have to play like Ken Dryden. If we win it will be like 2-1 with Kari stopping 45 shots. Not likely, but hey thats why they play the games. And five-hole clamp ur pie-hole.
By ranallo10
February 2, 2008 6:16 PM | Link to this
Manley — I have to agree that the European fans are quite intense despite the lack of size compared to NHL games. I’ve attended several games in Austria, seen a Swedish and Swiss team, and nothing compares to those types of fans. Chants, drums, incessant noise making…it’s hard not to enjoy a hockey game in Europe!
As for Enstrom’s style, I too think it’s his way of being taught while playing in the Elitserien…most defender pass the puck, moving it around trying to find the perfect lane. With all that room I’m sure it’s ingrained into every defender to take the pass only if your life depended on it. He’ll get more accustomed to shooting once he gets more confident with his shot.
By five_hole
February 2, 2008 6:35 PM | Link to this
I’m not sure exactly why I’m surprised by the comments of some people in this blog, who want me to shut up “five-hole clamp ur pie-hole.” - In midst of Idiots simply for asking to be able to talk hockey in a hockey blog.
To the people who can’t understand that, let me put it in terms I think you’ll understand. Kiss my a$$. Anyone who wants to be civil (and especially talk hockey), I’m fine with you.
By Thrasher Ryan
February 2, 2008 7:50 PM | Link to this
0-0 after 1. Thrash are playing Thrasher hockey, but no goals to show for it yet. Brashear appears to be fishing for trouble…
KL looks good so far. Enstrom had to save his a++ on one though. Toby looked like Rafael Furcal sliding into 2nd base after a steal!
GO BLUE!!!
By Thrasher Ryan
February 2, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this
8:00 left in the 2nd. Caps are playing the “press”. Thrash look timid. I wanna start calling Todd White Timid Todd.
Thrash need to MAN UP and activate that offense!
Zhitnik made a save for KL that looked like some 1980’s breakdancing move. Pretty nice!
GO BLUE!!!
By five_hole
February 2, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this
We had a gift in the 1st - AO missed a wide open net. Other than that, Kari has stood on his head (so far).
Who is out there wearing #77? It kinda looks like Zhitnik, but this guy (whoever it is) is playing defense. It can’t be the same guy.
And what a hit by X to take the puck away from a Cap & start the rush. He looked like a 5th grader taking lunch money from a 3rd grader.
By Thrasher Ryan
February 2, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this
It’s still 0-0 after 2! Thrashers need to SHOOT DA D* PUCK! How many shots do we have? **Not Much.
I wanna see a fight to start the 3rd and some THRASHER FIREPOWER!!!
GO BLUE!!!
By Rawhide
February 2, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this
Manley - Brag on, brother!!! Brag on!! There is nothing like watching the little tax-exemptions getting it done on the ice. Thanks for clueing us in on Mini-Manley!! Now, when he is starting for the Thrashers in 12 years or so…I can come to you for tickets, right?
PJ - You forgot, “Rawhide Rocks”!
Five_Hole - So far the “old legs” are hanging in there…with much help from the young-un ‘tween the pipes!!!
Alan - Enstrom should shoot more and last night was exhibit ‘A’ as to why…the goal he scored was absolutely Kovalchuk-esque. Same with the one that hit the pipe moments prior. If he does, and connects on a few more, then think how that could help our PP with he and Kovy on the point…
By Thrasher Ryan
February 2, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this
Zhitty came to PLAY, No Doubt. He’s has definitely out-played Klee tonight AND the past few games.
I still wanna see the Popo-Kowski D-PAIR! I thought they looked ok out there.
GO BLUE!!!
By Rawhide
February 2, 2008 9:15 PM | Link to this
My ( .\/. ) scowel for White just turned into a ( 0|0 ) wide-eyed OH HELL YES!!
By five_hole
February 2, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this
What a huge win! Kari was absolutely a wall tonight. I’ve said this before about him; when he’s “on”, he’s as good as there is in the game. It seems like he used to lose concentration in games and make mental mistakes. Not anymore. I don’t think I’ve seen a mental mistake from him all year.
And I’m guessing that someone must have said something to McCarthy; he never used to play as physical a game has he has lately. He has absolutely stepped up his play of late. Same with (geez this hurts to say) Zhitnik. He’s still not the fastest guy on the ice, but he played well positionally; he blocked a bunch of shots and got physical when he had to. He also let off several good shots (which was always his forte).
Did anyone else notice on White’s goal, how Recchi flattened the puck before the pass? Those are hands!
By Bob
February 2, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this
Isn’t it amazing how well Kari plays when he’s mentally fresh? Excellent job by Waddell managing the goalie rotation this weekend. Please, please, please learn from it and play 1a and 1b
Canes go down to the burgh, good night for the good guys.
By Jethro
February 2, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this
Bob - Maybe DWur finely came too his senses and is listenen to the bloggers fer advice.
Now, if he wuld ownly get some top talent in here during the off season.
DWur needs to start playin the dollar slots for free agents instead of them nickel slots.
By Jethro
February 2, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this
Hey Rawhide, how come you welcume everyone else new to the blog but you dont recognize a good ole boy?
By Midaz
February 2, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this
Hi all,
Never posted here before but I read this blog all the time.
Guess who is now tied for first in the SE? That’s right, our boys from blueland!
GO THRASHERS!!
By Russian
February 2, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this
Another winning Game, that is 3 in road, Baby! BUt it was f*** nerviuos again. 0:0 until 3-d period, was ugly. Damn! Carolina lost. We got same points as First place!
By Thrashy Thrashy
February 2, 2008 11:20 PM | Link to this
The Thrashers need to be more liberal with puck shooting. They were far too conservative tonight. While independent thinking on the ice isn’t always the best thing, I believe that a more bipartisan gameplan on offense is in order. Too much immigration into the Thrashers’ offensive zone should be a capital offense, shouldn’t it? Holik should have Czeched Ovechkin’s…papers …at the border…er, blue line.
Okay. I give up. Good win for ze Trasher tonight. Can the Thrashers finally start to build on an above-.500 record? Tuesday night awaits.
By Thrasher Ryan
February 2, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this
Thrash win 2-0!
Exelby—McCarthy D-PAIR is here to stay. Pops, Kiwi, Klee, and Zhitty can fight for the other spots.
We can thank KL for this win! Thrashers can’t get too high on themselves, though. Their shot count was PATHETIC!
Did everyone hear the “cling” of Todd White’s deflection off the post into the net? Rawhide and Myself called Timid Todd out… AND he came through! Holy S%&#!!!
Hoss got an empty-netter. #23 on the year.
RAWHIDE—We have Super Bowl parties to go to, but a new mission starts next week. 4 games in a row at home!
We gotta win 3 out of the 4, Rawhide. No exceptions. At the very least, POINTS in 3 out of the next 4. We HAVE to DOMINATE IN OUR HOUSE. Losing at home at this point in the season is unacceptable.
After next week, we go on the road for 5 straight…
It’s time to play with some CONSISTENCY. Winning 3 in a row as we have is a d* good start!
By Rawhide
February 3, 2008 12:12 AM | Link to this
Thrashy Thrash - Brilliant!!
Jethro - Howz you-uns been a-doin’? Howz yer maw and them? You Be welcum to da blog and all. You a-gonna get on out to the Home-Depot…er, Trailer-Depot… tomorree???
Thrasher Ryan - Minimum 6 of the 8 points…OK, Mission ON!
Bob - A rested Kari is a focused Kari…and a focused Kari is a very good Kari.
By Jethro
February 3, 2008 12:54 AM | Link to this
Now Rawhide, youz-ins know I dont be livin in no trailur.
The Home Depot don’t like to see me witha handfulla them $1 dollar cardz from the Thrasher games. Last time I got $97 dollars worth of them cards at that Panturds game.
Anyway, I plan ona watchin that pigskin game tomorrow, even though itza pair of yankee teams playin.
Speakin of Home Depot, I bet a dollar that that Home Depot feller wished he had bought a different Atlanta team.
By Jethro
February 3, 2008 1:01 AM | Link to this
stendec - You may halfta rename that goalie from Letemin to somethin else.