Ice Man

By Smoothie

February 12, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this

Great, thanks Rawhide, now I’m not going to book that cheap flight to Chicago on a small regional jet!!

By your everlovinbigsis

February 12, 2008 10:39 AM | Link to this

Well, I’m glad your didn’t dump the waste water over Brunswick as you blew over. vbg.

I finally was able to find a vid of the Zednik accident and it was worse than I thought it would be and am glad it wasn’t as bad as it should have been. Scary scary and yes, glad his wife was sent up quickly. So the big next question is - should ALL hockey players wear neck guards.

Interesting call and not one I want to make.

The more I read on Kari, the more impressed I get. Someday, I’ll actually plug up my tv and get cable and try to watch games if possible, rather than ransack the tabloids and my brother’s ramblings to keep up with my team. Durn this new car payment!!! At times, living on the beach isn’t what it’s cracked up to be!

By Smoothie

February 12, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this

RH — is that Larry Wayne pretending to be you sister??

By ranallo10

February 12, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this

bigsis — One accident should not dictate the protection standards of this league. This has only happened twice (to my knowledge), and is the epitome of the term “freak accident”.

If all players aren’t required to wear visors (we’ve had this debate before), then they shouldn’t be required to wear neck protectors.

By Rawhide

February 12, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this

Smoothie - LOL!!! I can neither confirm…nor deny that rumor.

By five_hole

February 12, 2008 11:14 AM | Link to this

Rawhide I fly a lot for my job, and this is what I think about; The airplane weighs about 20,000 lbs. There are around 120 people which adds roughly another 10,000 lbs. Add fuel & luggage and we’re probably talking about close to 40,000 lbs. When the plane lands, it’s dropping around 20 ft/second and when it touches down is probably moving at around 150-175 MPH. And all of this force is being absorbed by 3 sets of tires.

My feeling of Hossa being moved by the trade deadline is that it depends on if we’re “in the hunt”. If we’re 10 pts behind, then Hossa is gone, adios, see you later. If we’re ahead by 5, or even if we’re even, he stays. As you said, DW’s job depends on his making the playoffs, and he’s not going to get rid of a premier player if we’re competing for a playoff spot.

My personal opinion of DW is that he hasn’t done the best job (especially in drafting) but that it’s really easy to be critical and a lot harder to be in the position to have to make all the calls. Is he the best GM? Of course not. Is he the worst? I don’t think so.

By ranallo10

February 12, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this

Rawhide — If it makes you feel better, most air “incidents” occur due to a faulty $5 screw or rivet, and not due to pilot error.

By GaVaHokie

February 12, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

Waddell won’t trade Hossa for just anything… he’ll keep him rather than make a sub-par deal.

I expect us to add players as soon as this week… look for it to be guys with actual contracts, not just UFA’s. This will be the final nudge to get Hossa to sign a contract.

ie. draft picks or prospects to Chicago for Robert Lang (2 year contract) or possibly Ottawa for Antoine Vermette.

By your everlovinbigsis

February 12, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this

YOU TWIT! Neither confirm nor deny… my tookus.

Ranald… again, that’s not a call I want to make. Freak accident, yes. But one that still could have killed him. But then you have more of a chance getting in your car and dying in a freak car accident within a mile of your own home. Which is why we wear seatbelts.

By chickenhawk

February 12, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this

ie. draft picks or prospects to Chicago for Robert Lang (2 year contract) or possibly Ottawa for Antoine Vermette.

sorry, hokie we cannot do that. we cannot give away any more picks; in fact we should try to acquire picks.

samsonov sure looks good in carolina, huh hokie?

By ranallo10

February 12, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this

chickenhawk — As does Recchi in Atlanta, what’s your point? Recchi came at over half the price, with more playoff experience AND a track record for being a good teammate. Samsonov came with baggage and failed expectations, as well as a bloated contract.

Samsonov fits no immediate needs for this team’s roster, so why bring him up?

bigsis — I once stepped on my own shoelaces and hit my head on a table, cutting a gash in my head and scaring all the other children in the kindergarten class…because of that should all shoe makers be required to make their shoes Velcro-laced?

Hokie — I’d be fine with Vermette, but I don’t think Lang would be too helpful. Ruutu is definitely underperforming in Chicago (19pts in 53GP), maybe he could be had on the cheap?

By FormerIslesFan

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

I don’t think we’re going to see neck guards on players in the NHL anytime soon. Hell, not even all the goaltenders in the league wear neck shields on their masks and their the ones that have the frozen rubber things flying at them on average 30 times a night (or slightly higher if you play for the Thrashers).

RH, props to you for focusing on the shots against stat. I’ve seen a lot of sportswriters (MacKenzie, Burnside) lately talking about how the most useless stat in hockey lately is the goal differential (noting that the Ducks are currently at a -4). Simple math dictates that if the opponent is limited in their opportunities to put the puck in the net, the less they actually will.

Being the FIF, I would note that no one here is talking about the Isles being a potential trading partner; not necessarily for Hoss, but for other pieces. The Isles have two major UFAs in their midst (Comrie and Satan) neither of whom appear to be part of the Isles’ long term plans. Would either fill a need here?

Lastly (so I don’t get accused of blogging too long, right Brendan), it seems not so long ago that we were discussing what a great thing it was that the Thrashers got back to .500 prior to T’Giving. Well, here we are approaching Valentine’s Day and guess what, we’re still at .500. The playoffs that does NOT make.

By Bob

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

I’ve always wanted to see Comrie skate with Ilya, don’t know that the Isle would move him to us for cheap though.

Rawhide, yep, Kari is at the end of a run of 5 pretty good starts (the first two both had debacle soft goals let in my him, but let’s not focus on that, we’ll give him 5 solid starts here). The key here is that he’s done this before, multiple times. The key for him to breakthrough to being a real #1 goalie is to continue the play. In the past, he’d break down after 4 or 5 good starts. I expect another good game out of him tomorrow as he’s had a few days off, but then let’s see if he can keep the play up. You’re spot on, he’s the key to where we go now.

Hossa is gone, and it’ll be the right move for Waddell to trade him. Kind of a dichotomy here as the Waddell followers are hoping he can sign Hoss, but I fully realize the only move he can make is to move him. If he keeps him, he’s dumber than I think (and only doing it to try to save his job). I don’t think Don is dumb, I think he doesn’t have the skill set to be an NHL GM, but he’s not dumb enough to hold onto Hoss and let him walk for nada this summer. No one’s that dumb. I really feel like he’ll pull off a couple of decent moves (then again, I liked the Tkachuk and Zhitnik moves last deadline, oops).

By Bob

February 12, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this

Ok, who else has received their renewal package for next year’s season tix? They bumped prices up 10%, meanwhile, they continue to give 50% discounts and incentives to single game buyers.

Can anyone explain to me what the Spirit is thinking bumping prices up 10% for this product?

We’re not renewing now, no way, no how, until after July 1st, after we see if there’s a new GM and after we see what players are signed.

By set

February 12, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this

Fox sports reported that DW got a 3 year extension. Is that true. DW will do what is best for the team, he has won at every level. It takes time to build a winner. That’s why they have co-pilots.

By Bob

February 12, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this

Larry Babbling Brooks reported that Waddell extension on his blog last week, Custance immediately shot it down (Brook is a well known numbnut).

By R. Stroz

February 12, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this

Bob - Are you serious? They raised the prices 10% after this season? Somebody in the Atlanta Spirit Group needs to put down the crack pipe.

I’m not renewing until after July 1 as well. I’m telling my rep when the ASG ponies up and spends 10% more on the player payroll and quits selling seats at 50 cents on the dollar after I’ve bought the package, then I’ll consider renewing. Otherwise, I’m not subsidizing seats for someone else.

By Bob

February 12, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this

I’m not renewing until after July 1 as well. I’m telling my rep when the ASG ponies up and spends 10% more on the player payroll and quits selling seats at 50 cents on the dollar after I’ve bought the package, then I’ll consider renewing. Otherwise, I’m not subsidizing seats for someone else

Ditto. I’m adding the caveat on the GM, no more until they get a competent guy in here to right this ship. But the final straw for me is the discounting of tickets all year to Johnny Come Latelys and then having the gall to jack my price 10% for this product? Unreal.

By ranallo10

February 12, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this

Stroz — Dye that hair a little and you could probably pass for a student, thus getting yourself some nice discounts on individual game tickets. I still hold onto my ID just in case.

By R. Stroz

February 12, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this

ranallo10 - What hair?

My hair didn’t turn grey, it just turned loose.

By R. Stroz

February 12, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this

ranallo10 - Do you think a sales rep would fall for the old college ID if I wore the mullet from the last game?

By NASCAR Dave

February 12, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

TOMORROW NIGHT IS HOSSA’S LAST GAME IN ATLANTA AS A THRASHER!!! BETTER BRING YOUR CAMERAS!!!

By Bob

February 12, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this

didn’t think of that, tomorrow is the time to say goodbye, give him a star press, just so he can skate out and wave goodbye to the fans.

By ranallo10

February 12, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this

Stroz — The box office people (only place you are technically allowed to purchase student tickets) wouldn’t know any better. Hell, I’m sure you could get a phone number or two from those hotties.

By R. Stroz

February 12, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this

ranallo10 - The phone number days are long gone. Mrs. R. Stroz keeps me in line now.

Happy wife, happy life.

By PJ

February 12, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this

Hey Stroz I need to purchase some tickets for future games at the box office tmo. Bring you mullet and a sleeveless muscle-T and help out your ole buddy over here.

By Jethro

February 12, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this

This PJ soundz like the kinda person to hang out with atta game.

By Jim_Bob

February 12, 2008 6:18 PM | Link to this

Hey there Jethro and Rawhide! How you fellers doing today? See, I gots me a “real” mullet. I don’t need no fake one. I gots me some wife-beater tees too. I heard some fellers talkin on here about some discounts at that box office. Well, last time I tried to go there, I gots myself so twisted drunkie that I passed out in the truck and them other fellers I went to the game with stole all my money AND saw the whole game. Dangit, I got screwed!

So, Ima gonna try me this lil trick them fellers above was talkin about. But this time I might wanna not drink before the game, and just sneak that bottle of Mr. Jack Daniel’s into the game. Thats fer dam sure!

By R. Stroz

February 12, 2008 6:24 PM | Link to this

PJ - Looks like you are developing a fan club to party with at the games.

By Sara

February 12, 2008 6:48 PM | Link to this

Between RH Stroz and Ranallo I think I’ve about spewed a gallon of coke all over my computer reading through this.

The Zednick thing was truly awful but I don’t see them moving to neck guards. HOWEVER, it did get mentioned in one article that while neck guards are required in some of the Canadian junior leagues and such, they aren’t required at all of those levels. But they should be - as the guy in the article pointed out, in the NHL, top-notch medical treatment is hanging out in the building - not so for kids leagues and such. THAT’s a scary thought.

As for Hossa - he isn’t going anywhere this season. We aren’t going to be able to get anyone near his talent level in any kind of trade and we’re too close to playoff berth to give up.

As for ASG - they can all kiss our collective rears. Raising STH ticket prices when they aren’t even sure they’ll make the playoffs is about as retarded as it gets. Didn’t ANYONE in that organization take a business class ever?

By R. Stroz

February 12, 2008 7:17 PM | Link to this

Sara - The answer to your question is, for the most part, no. They just married into the Turner family or were left overs from previous Turner owned teams.

By LAC

February 12, 2008 8:06 PM | Link to this

Well five_hole… a 20,000 pound passsenger jet ??????????????

Heck a standard railroad locomotive like an SD-70ACe weighs in at 400,000 with fuel… Never mind the engineer & conductor, a 737 fully loaded tips the scales at about 200,000 just for the record…

waddell needs to read into the mind of Marian… He likes the city.

Ok don, try this, a one year deal, show him this group of owners IS serious andwill make solid moves for next season, then back it up, if not he isfree to leave if don and Atlnta Stupid Group do their usual lying…

Look for a strong game from KL wed. night, just feel it.

By NASCAR Dave

February 12, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this

As for Hossa - he isn’t going anywhere this season.

SARA DON’T FOOL YOURSELF!!! WADDELL IS ON RECORD AS SAYING IF HOSSA DOES NOT SIGN BEFORE THE DEADLINE, HE WILL BE TRADED. SARA (AND NUMEROUS OTHERS) NEED TO LEARN TO ACCEPT REALITY AND QUIT LIVING IN DREAMLAND! THE MAN IS GONE LIKE THE WIND… DON’T TRICK YOURSELF INTO THINKING OTHERWISE!

I’M SURE WADDELL WILL GET SOME GOOD VALUE OUT OF THIS TRADE. THIS IS THE BEST PLAYER HE’S EVER EVEN BEEN ABLE TO TRADE (BESIDES HEATER). WE WILL BE BOTH BUYERS AND SELLERS!

By Tony C.

February 12, 2008 8:15 PM | Link to this

Who all is going tomorrow?

By The great thunder maker in the sky

February 12, 2008 8:25 PM | Link to this

Rawhide,

For the safe flight, You are welcome.

By five_hole

February 12, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this

Thanks LAC that will make me feel even better, the next time I fly. Not.

While I was as horrified as I’m sure everyone else was, I don’t think that the league should mandate the neck guards. This has happened twice in almost 100 years of the NHL. It’s a freak accident. I doubt if the players want neck guards. I remember when the league mandated helmets, and no one complained (I also remember when goalies started wearing face masks). If the players don’t want to wear neck guards, the league should not force them.

By kracker

February 12, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this

Dave Please don’t yell in caps, it hurts my ears.

Waddell is down in Tampa at the Habs-Bolts game as I type this.

By Sara

February 12, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this

“NASCARDave Waddell is also on record, as of the past week and before, as stating that if the team is in the hunt for the play-offs and division title, he won’t move Hossa. It’s been mentioned in Craig’s blog before even - like three days ago.

Overall in this market, making the play-offs again this season is going to look better than “getting something rather than nothing” for an impending UFA that most of the city couldn’t name anyway. While on here, among more “knowledgeable fans,” the reverse argument could be made, I think the ASG is more concerned with general public opinion (see: ticket pricing strategies).

Additionally, as I said a few days ago, plenty of teams go through situations this time of year where key players are heading into free agency and may very well move on. But when those clubs are headed for the play-offs, they hang on to those top players anyway. Plenty of precedent.

By PJ

February 12, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this

Sara Welcome back… I think. I didn’t see you post for a while and was wondering where you went. I always appreciate your oppinion and the perceptive visual you add to the recap of events. Remember oppinions are like a$$%&*%s, everyones got one. I may respectfully disagree with you about Hossa but we’ll all see soon enough.

Rstroz Look forward to running into you and the Mrs. tomorrow. I really do have business at the box office so I don’t know if I’ll make it to Gorins before the game. We will be in 210, come say hi.

By Brendan

February 12, 2008 9:18 PM | Link to this

Tampa Bay scored late in the 3rd period to grab a 3-2 lead. I’m watching these final seconds tick down. Habs are on a PP. Koivu just had a glorious chance to tie it!! Not good enough. Bolts win. More bad news: The Bruins are losing, 3-0, to the Carolina Hurricanes. There’s about 6:30 left in the 3rd period. D’oh!

By Brendan

February 12, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this

Well, Thornton hadn’t scored a goal all year for Boston (Not Joe!!, he plays for San Jose!), Shawn just popped in two in 0:27. It’s 3-2, Hurricanes. And now we’ve got a finish in Boston. It’s on channel #773, if you have Center Ice on Comcast. There’s just over 3:00 left in regulation time.

By Alan

February 12, 2008 9:25 PM | Link to this

Sara - To be quite honest, I don’t believe what Don said for Craig’s blog a few days ago. I’m not sure Don’s run-in with Bob Gainey was coincidental. The fact that Don is at another Habs game - this time in Tampa - sort of lends credence to my suspicions.

However:

I don’t believe Don will deal Hossa. I believe Don will either have him signed, or Don will let Hossa walk at the end of the season. Sure, the price of rental players this season is sky high, and I’m sure it has a lot to do with deals made last year coupled with how there are so many contenders this year. Hossa, however, will likely not be dealt at or before the deadline.

Rewinding, Don is scouting the Habs. Hossa is off the table. Who, exactly, is Don interested in, and who will he deal out to the Habs?

By Brendan

February 12, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this

The Bruins have given a pretty good effort here down the stretch. But there’s only 0:33 left. Bruins have taken a timeout, with their net empty. Chara is in the penalty box, for Boston, however. They’re skating 5-on-5.

Time has expired. Carolina wins, 3-2. Dang.

By NASCAR Dave

February 12, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this

OK SARA, WE CAN AGREE TO DISAGREE ON HOSSA. CLEARLY YOU DON’T WANT TO ACCEPT ALL OPTIONS. THAT’S FINE. BUT, IT WILL ONLY MAKE IT WORSE FOR YOU WHEN IT HAPPENS.

I SEE WE HAVE 3 “MAJOR” RENTALS IN HOSSA, HOLIK, HEDBERG.

WADDELL WOULD BE AN IDIOT NOT TO EXPLORE “ALL OPTIONS”.

BUT I KNOW SOME ON HERE WOULD DISAGREE….. WADDELL CAN’T DO ANYTHING RIGHT. I’M NOT ONE OF THOSE.

I HAVE SOME FAITH IN THE GUY IN REGARDS TO TRADES. HE WILL PULL SOMETHING OFF.

HE HAS TO.

By Bob

February 12, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this

Ok, let’s lay some bets.

I know he’ll be traded. If he’s not, I will not write one bad word on this blog about Waddell the rest of the year.

Those that think Hoss won’t be traded, place your wager, please. All windows open, please step up and place your bets. Put your money where you mouth is.

By Rawhide

February 12, 2008 10:38 PM | Link to this

Augh…what’s with all the SCREAMING in here, Dave….my head, it hurts!

LAC - Where else can a person go to get hockey stats, updates and opinion AND specs on a locomotive??? Good stuff.

BTW, I was flying on a Boeing 757…300 series, I believe. I prefer the 767s that fly the ATL - MIA route, but I wasn’t being picky.

PJ - Looks like you’re getting quite the following….a fan club, even.

ranallo - If it makes you feel better, most air “incidents” occur due to a faulty $5 screw or rivet, and not due to pilot error - Yes, that makes me feel oh, so much better….thanks a pant-load! LOL!

FIF - Your point about SA/G are spot on my friend…in my very first-est blog way back in October I mentioned that I would be keeping track of how many times we hold teams under 30 shots on goal and what our record would be in those games. I threw that out the window come November. We HAVE to keep that number in the upper 20s more times than not…

Bob - They RAISED ticket prices?? God, I go away for 2 days and this crap happens?

SHEEZE!!! OK, has anyone there at ASG taken a basic economics class??? They cannot sell out the place on a regular basis at current prices…so someone get’s the brilliant idea to RAISE prices? THIS is going to get more fans through the door??? THIS will KEEP current STHs as loyal customers????

Normally, teams jack up prices when MORE people flop their butts into the seats, (that old “supply and demand” thing, you know)….

OK, maybe I’m all wrong here…there are TONS more fans filling seats on weekends and weeknights…it’s just that most games are “come disguised as an empty seat” night…and THAT’S why we don’t see them!

They raised prices?

Brilliant!

By PJ

February 12, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this

Rawhide I just pray, people join in, ta nada.

Refresh my memory, but didn’t Kovi get a hat trick against Tampa Bay earlier this season? And was that the same game Tortillahead got fined for his temper tantrum?? Just curious.

By Rawhide

February 12, 2008 11:15 PM | Link to this

PJ - Yes,…Saturday night November 3rd….in a 6-4 come-from-behind win in Tampa, Kovi did score a hat trick…his second in as many games.

I do know if that was the game Turd-orella threw his little hissie-fit, but it could be…

By Tony C.

February 12, 2008 11:42 PM | Link to this

I don’t know if anybody else watched the NYI-phlyers game…

Was watching Comrie, as he’s a potential pick up as the Isles are holding on by fingernails…but this game shows there’s fight left in them. but They still might be selling-who would you deal for Comrie as a potential 1/2 pivot?

He and Guerin had some good sequences, but I don’t know that he’s the answer for #17…but I think a Slava/Comrie/Hoss (not hossa) line would be pretty effective.

Any way it is a legit thought. We have well enough cap space to take on the price tag, but what’s the word on him as a teammate? You’ll notice some large egos in the Thrasher’s room… maybe not all loud-but big. I just worry about what DW would pay.

GO BLUE !!!

P.S.-I know Holland’s saying all the right things, but boy that sure was some show Hoss put on huh?

By R. Stroz

February 12, 2008 11:48 PM | Link to this

After attempting to ascertain why the Atlanta Spirit Group is raising prices despite the number of empty, I have figured out their math.

They have decided to raise prices in order to cut them in half later to procure the original price that they thought people would be willing to pay. Even better from the ASG point of view, they think the general public will be thrilled to get a great deal on the half price ticket.

So here’s the example of the ASG strategy at work:

1) Price a season ticket seat at say $65.00 instead of the old price of $58.00.

2) Then after the corporate morons pay $65.00 per seat for the entire season, they offer tickets at $32.50 to the general public on a game by game basis.

3) The general public thinks they are getting a deal and the corporations get screwed.

4) The ASG thinks they are smart businessmen.

Unfortunately, the ASG didn’t consider these results of their actions:

1) The non corporate ticket package buyer balks at the new price.

2) The former ticket package holder waits for the ticket fire sale after the season starts.

3) The fixed revenue portion of ASG Thrasher sales decreases with the increase in ticket prices. The increased season ticket price doesn’t make up for the lost sales revenue.

4) The ASG lowers team payroll before July 1 due to the lower fixed revenue portion of sales.

5) The idiots at ASG take this as a sign that Atlantans are losing interest in hockey.

6) So they put an even cheaper team on the ice each successive season.

Does anyone have connections with Goldman Sachs for a corporate takeover? The ASG is a prime candidate.

By Dwight Gooden

February 13, 2008 4:25 AM | Link to this

Uhh, could someone let me in on the big secret (or lack thereof) where I can get Thrashers tickets at 50% off? Apparently I am the last to know of this.

By Bob

February 13, 2008 8:57 AM | Link to this

Uhh, could someone let me in on the big secret (or lack thereof) where I can get Thrashers tickets at 50% off?

ebay, stubhub, scalpers outside, fans outside giving them away, the Thrashers own box office…but hey, that’s just off the top of my head.

Does anyone have connections with Goldman Sachs for a corporate takeover? The ASG is a prime candidate

These guys are completely clueless. These are the same numbnuts that still employ Billy Knight and Don Waddell as GMs of their clubs, and scratch their heads as to the results.

For goodness sakes, they can’t even settle their own infighting over the ownership squabble, how long has that been going on now, 2 years with no end in sight? This group is the epitomy of mismanagement.

I think I’m going to start rooting for Belkin in that lawsuit, mabye he can at least force them to sell the Thrashers to one owner with some hockey sense and business acumen.

By off the post

February 13, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this

Before you call someone else clueless in business, realize that those tickets that are at 50% off from eBay, stubhub and scalpers had to be purchased at full price from the Thrashers. So they are still earning top dollar. It is the seller on eBay who had to take a 50% loss because that was their top bid. The Thrashers 50% discounts are only for select games, not anywhere close to all of them.

By Thrasher Ryan

February 13, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this

Whattup Rawhide and PJ. This is a CRITICAL must-win game!

I think the boys show some pride tonight in a 6-5 win!

PJ I just make the predictions. I leave the prayers for you. Thundermaker gave me some talent, just not that much. Plus, sometimes my mouth gets a little too dirty to be a preacher.

So, let’s get that prayer in early today, ok?

GO BLUE!!!

By R. Stroz

February 13, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this

off the post - Many weekend game tickets can be purchased from the ASG directly for .75 on the dollar via the Shane Rib Shack special. The weeknight game tickets can be purchased directly from the ASG for .50 on the dollar via 2 for 1 Thursdays, the televised deal of the game, and direct marketing to corporations (my wife received an email from an ASG with every weeknight game ticket for half price in the month of February).

So, yes the ASG does sell tickets directly for far less than face value, after they have fleeced the ticket package purchasers.

Therefore, the ASG isn’t earning top dollar.

By off the post

February 13, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this

rstroz, my comments on the Thrashers earning top dollar were on the eBay, Stubhub, etc. not Shane’s Rib Shack or AJC. Also, my figure was 50%, so to quote something that is .75 on the dollar is irrelevant because that does not fall in the 50% number that I quoted as it is 75%. As for the 2-1 Thursdays, I stated that there are select games that do have 50%, but it certainly is all of them. I also find it comical that on this blog you were all calling for Sabres like pricing with more discounts, I forget what you guys were calling it. Now you are complaining that we have it. At least we have a general manager who picked Kovalchuk though so let’s be thankful for that.

By R. Stroz

February 13, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this

off the post

First, find one post where I discussed tiered pricing. The majority of that discussion was between Rawhide and Brian.

Second, your quote:

Before you call someone else clueless in business, realize that those tickets that are at 50% off from eBay, stubhub and scalpers had to be purchased at full price from the Thrashers. So they are still earning top dollar. It is the seller on eBay who had to take a 50% loss because that was their top bid. The Thrashers 50% discounts are only for select games, not anywhere close to all of them.

What days of the week do you think the majority of games are played?

Have you ever typed the GUIDE into the promotions code section on Ticketmaster?

The ASG is not getting dollar for the majority of the tickets, that is your premise and your premise is inaccurate.

By the way, are you a fan or an ASG rep?

By Rawhide

February 13, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this

OTP & RStroz - The conversation was about tiered ticket pricing, (like what they have in Buffalo and Montreal). Brian, myself and others had this discussion underneath of my Jan. 17th Blog entry

There are Gold, Silver and Bronze games…Gold being games on the weekend and/or vs. top clubs like Ottawa, Detroit, etc….Bronze would be weeknight games that the front office feels would not attract a high demand on the box office.

From what I understand of it, these games are sheduled and announced as to their levels prior to tickets going on sale and the prices are reflected in the season ticket holder’s fees.

Personally, I find the system is worth looking at as a way to even out attendance numbers as well as bringing in new fans who would take advantage of a Wednesday night game against, say, Tampa or Florida…at the lower price than a Saturday game against a team like Pittsburgh with Crosby & Co.

Are draw-backs or pit-falls in such a stucture? I’m sure people can point some out…but I just think anything should be tried to get new fans in the building. They would be paying for parking, buy snacks and drinks, maybe a puck hat for the kids, and…most importantly…coming back again once they see for themselves what Blueland is all about

Now….on a completely different note, CC is reporting that Hossa did not skate this morning in the optional practice. As he said, read into that what you will.

By Bob

February 13, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this

By the way, are you a fan or an ASG rep?

stroz, I suspect you already named who that is in your post above, which is absolutely fall down funny as this is the guy that always accused everyone else of posting under fake names…wonder why he remembers Brian’s argument so well? lol.

By Bob

February 13, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this

Now….on a completely different note, CC is reporting that Hossa did not skate this morning in the optional practice. As he said, read into that what you will

I’m still waiting for those few bloggers left that don’t believe Hoss is gone because he’s already told Atlanta he doesn’t Believe in Blueland and Waddell’s direction here, to post their bets and what they’ll do if Hoss stays. I laid my bets above and I will stick to it. Any takers? Windows open, anyone?

I’ll go with my best Larry Babbling Brooks impression and throw a WAG out there that Montreal’s GM flew into Atlanta this a.m. after the Tampa game and had a sit down with Hoss and his agent to work out a contract extension, that’s the way we can max value in this trade. The good ol’ sign and trade (or trade and sign), that just never happens, ain’t that right, off the post?

By R. Stroz

February 13, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this

Bob - I know you will find this hard to believe; but, I know its not Brian.

Brian, despite his somewhat in your face demeanor in blogland, is a very good person. Brian and I have a tendency to agree to disagree though; however, the discussions are very civil. In fact on numerous occassions, Brian has gone to games with me and my son when the wife was unable to make the game.

Now, clean the coffee you just spewed all over your desk.

By off the post

February 13, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this

ok, go to my post at 11:31am and I made one slight reference to another blog, now you are calling me Brian because of that? That makes me know his argument so well? bob, you are the one who has the rants here, why can’t you just come up with something besides your hatred of anyone who points out your lies or false quotes? If I post more then 3 lines, does that make me Brendan? If I offer a prayer, does that make me the PJ the prayer guy? I’ve spent too much time on this today, I am going to watch a great game tonight coached by the general manager that picked Kovalchuk in the draft.

By Nix

February 13, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this

Anyone know of any places in Midtown where I can catch tonight’s game?

By puckjunque

February 13, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this

Oh we need the Amens today!!

Bow your heads, hands joined on the keyboards

Oh Heavenly Father, Thank you for listening to our prayers and for keeping the Thrashers healthy and blessed. Please lead the Thrashers to dominate the ice tonight with a ruthless display of superiority and skill. Please fire up the Thrashers tonight, lead them to defend our net, score goals and kick the capitals a$$! AMEN!!

By Thrasher Ryan

February 13, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this

AMEN PJ! Time to kick some CRAP-ITALs A$$!!!

By Roswell Thrasherfan

February 13, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

i think bob and brian are the same guy. brian isn’t even on the blog anymore, it is only bob that refers to him. rstroz is probably in on the joke, he never referred to him before yet all of a sudden they are drinking buddies that go to games together? brian probably doesn’t even exist otherwise we would’ve heard about him earlier. my money is that we suddenly get a post from brian and he somehow refers to bob, but they never blog at the sametime.

By Alan

February 13, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this

AMEN PJ!!

By PJ

February 13, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this

Off the post BTW, I haven’t been mistaken for a dude since I was 5 and my mom gave me a horrible pixie cut. I hope that doesn’t keep you from giving me a “Amen.”

GO THRASHERS!!!

By Rawhide

February 13, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this

A-FREAKIN’-MEN!!! Nicely done, PJ!!! Thank you, ma’am!

Now let’s go WIPE WASHINGTON all over the FREAKIN’ ICE!!

Nix - Maybe the Jocks-n-Jills on Peachtree and 10th???

By Bob

February 13, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

You guys have me so confuzzled, I think I’m voting for Hitlary now.

Now, clean the coffee you just spewed all over your desk

lol, you owe me a new keyboard.

By Nikita

February 13, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

Speaking as someone who lives a distance away, but flirts with season ticket ownership every year and originally went on corporate tickets…Atlanta’s tickets should be substantially cheaper.

1. Look at the competition. Pro sports, college sports, etc. — someone who likes sports and wants to try a team out can try out almost any other team in the region for substantially less money.

2. Demand should drive price, and every time I go to a Thrashers game I look down upon hundreds of empty high-dollar seats. This is not a hockey town like most of our competitor NHL towns are — we have to build the fan base. And you will not do that on empty arenas with poor morale.

3. The Thrashers should more aggressively pursue the kind of programs that have paid off for other teams — selective corporate buybacks, group sales, and such. And small group deals should be available.

If the Thrashers were successful in building a fan base, they’d get more money for tickets…because demand would drive it. Meanwhile the seats sit empty, people aren’t trying hockey or are trying inferior hockey (Gwinnett Glads, anyone?) or other sports.

By Nikita

February 13, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

P.S. Even though there are college programs, they’re poorly advertised.

By R. Stroz

February 13, 2008 2:52 PM | Link to this

Roswell Thrasherfan - Would like to place a wager on Bob & Brian being the same guy? Or whether Brian exists?

The loser buys season tickets for the winner in the lower bowl of the arena. Put your money on the table or shut up.

Also, I don’t drink.

By R. Stroz

February 13, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this

Bob - Any chance you’re going to the game tonight?

So far this season, I’ve met Rone, Buzilla, ranallo10, GaVaHokie, Brian, PJ, and Rawhide.

By R. Stroz

February 13, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this

Oops, I left out J(Z) and Jethro.

By Nix

February 13, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this

Amen, PJ!

By R. Stroz

February 13, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this

Bob - I bet that is the first time in your life that anyone on the Thrasher blogs has thought that you and Brian are the same person.

By Roswell Thrasherfan

February 13, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this

pj, i am sorry but you come off as the preacher type and i just saw that. we clearly have not met and i have nothing else to go on. rstroz, sorry for the drinking comment, put it up there with calling pj a man as i don’t know you people. while i don’t doubt you met those other people, you are conveniently mentioning it now as if you almost need an alibi. this only adds to my belief that bob and brian are one in the same and you are in on it. now you are making plans to be with bob tonight. bob = brian and rstroz is in on it.

By R. Stroz

February 13, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this

Roswell Thrasherfan - Place your bet?

Are you going to the game tonight?

By off the post

February 13, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this

Just when I said I was done posting for the day, I have to make this comment. Roswellthrasherfan, you couldn’t be more wrong. Brian is in no way Bob, he is a cross between Brendan and Ranollo10 in that he has those bizarre statistics and he fights with Bob. Bob goes after Brian like he goes after Ranollo10 or anyone else who doesn’t hate the general manager who scouted and drafted Ilya Kovalchuk.

By Roswell Thrasherfan

February 13, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this

rstroz, i have not attended any games this year but even if i do you can easily pull any two clowns out of the crowd to pose as brian and bob. i don’t want to play these games but it does seem a little too coincidental with bob brian and now you.

By five_hole

February 13, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this

off the post I don’t think anyone here disses the drafting of Kovalchuk. I think we diss the drafting of Stephan, Valabik and all the draft picks that turned into wasted picks.

PJ a belated Amen, and I would never have mistaken you for a man. We’ve never met, but you have a very feminine, um, er, font.

By Roswell Thrasherfan

February 13, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

off the post can you change your name to off your rocker? who wouldn’t draft Kovalchuk back then?

By Brendan

February 13, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this

I don’t know what I’m putting up, Bob, but I really do think Waddell is going to hang on to Hossa. I’m basing that on what I think that Waddell thinks. And not, sayy, what some other GM would do.

Waddell says “we’ll be buyers at the trade deadline.” But he also says things like, “We have to look out for the long range interests of the team,” when referring to the Hossa contract situation. Now, I do think there is some possibility that Waddell could move Hossa and in SEPARATE DEALS, bring in players to compensate for the loss of Hossa.

I’m not sure how I’d feel about that. On one hand, Hossa tends to disappear in the playoffs, so if Waddell brings in “Hossa substitute players,” it just might work out. But, another thing to consider, is the “team chemistry.” If we’re going to have 3-5 new players on our team, as we lose Hossa, draft picks and prospects, this “new team” will have very little time to gel before the playoffs start.

What I think is … that Waddell views Hossa as “essential” to the playoff-run, and will risk losing him in the offseason to retain him for the playoff push. I very well could be wrong. I don’t think Waddell wants to be remembered as the guy who traded Hossa away. But honestly, in his shoes, who can blame him for trading Hossa? Unless the trade is disastrous.

By R. Stroz

February 13, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

Rawhide or PJ - Would you intervene and please let Roswell Thrasherfan know that Bob and Brian aren’t the same person.

By Bob

February 13, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this

Bob - Any chance you’re going to the game tonight

I don’t have tix for a while, we do the 1/2 season weekend dealie.

I bet that is the first time in your life that anyone on the Thrasher blogs has thought that you and Brian are the same person

That would be an affirmative.

bob = brian and rstroz is in on it

I think The Butler did it.

Bob goes after Brian like he goes after Ranollo10 or anyone else who doesn’t hate the general manager who scouted and drafted Ilya Kovalchuk

Ok, now I’m convinced, you would have known I just ignore you and the other one now, if you were really Brian.

All is well with the world again, phew.

i don’t want to play these games but it does seem a little too coincidental with bob brian and now you

Bob’s your Uncle!

Stroz, no one’s in the betting mood lately, what up with that? Alright, how bout this, I bet you that we win tonight’s game 4-3, and Hoss gets the first star and comes out and waves farethewell to Blueland. You post a score and a winner and whoever comes closer wins, loser has to dress up like Bozo and take Roswell to a game later this year?

By off the post

February 13, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this

Five_hole and Roswell Thrasherfan, that is sort of my point. If you are going to blame the general manager when he makes a pick that everyone in the league says he should make (Stefan or Coburn), then glorify him when he makes a pick that everyone in the league says he should make (Kovalchuk or Heatley). Don’t pick and choose and highlight one but ignore the other. What if we all ignored Stefan but talked about his incredible scouting ability for drafting Kovalchuk? It wouldn’t make sense, so stop doing the same thing the other way. I will stop writing now otherwise Bob will say that I am really Brendan.

By Rawhide

February 13, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this

RStroz - Uh,…it would go against the ethics of defending a posters “Right to Anonymity” to divulge such information without proper consent from both parties.

Besides, why would I want to put an end to this?

Good, wholesome, quality, free entertainment…munching on popcorn…sipping coke

By PJ

February 13, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this

Thanks, five-hole, i think…

By Alan

February 13, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this

i have not attended any games this year but even if i do you can easily pull any two clowns out of the crowd to pose as brian and bob.

Read as: I won’t be around for your proof that what you say is true, but even if I were, you’re a liar anyway.

Geez. Drama drama. Get over it. Isn’t there a Hossa trade proposal to debate about or something?

By R. Stroz

February 13, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

Roswell Thrasherfan - Are you the guy that had hernia surgery several months ago?

If I remember correctly, we had to agree to disagree way back then and either GaVaHokie or ranallo10 had to help negotiate a truce.

By Bob

February 13, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

I will stop writing now otherwise Bob will say that I am really Brendan

No, no, no, keep up please. Brendan is Custance, Custance is Rawhide, Rawhide is stroz, stroz is me, I’m Brian, Brian is you, you’re off your rocker. Got it? Good.

By Roswell Thrasherfan

February 13, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this

rstroz i will go to a game with you as long as i don’t have to sit next to bob.

By Rawhide

February 13, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this

No, Bob,

I am the Eggman

RStroz is the Walrus

I am he as you are he as you are me and we are all together.

g’goo-Tkachuk!

By Russ

February 13, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this

Pucks N Snot = Old Toothless Hockey Player

He couldn’t really continue to come to this blog as a Leafs fan after the last few seasons, so he re-invented himself as a Wings fan.

By R. Stroz

February 13, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this

If anyone wants to visit the R.Stroz family tonight, we will be in Section 207, Row E, Seats 5,6,7.

By Roswell Thrasherfan

February 13, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this

sorry rawhide but bob + rstroz = thompson twins

By Bob

February 13, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this

rstroz i will go to a game with you as long as i don’t have to sit next to bob

Aw, c’mon. Don’t go away mad. I could buy you a popcorn and explain the game to ya, it’d be a swell time.

g’goo-Tkachuk indeed!

By Roswell Thrasherfan

February 13, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this

bob you can explain to me everything you know about hockey once the game starts but what would you talk about for the other 59 minutes?

By Dunwoody_Kevin

February 13, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this

I think off the post is Brian. Very similar posts…

By off the post

February 13, 2008 5:04 PM | Link to this

Roswell Thrasherfan, I just spit out a mouthfull of coke all over my keyboard a la R. Stroz after reading your comment. Best one of the day.

By Roswell Thrasherfan

February 13, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this

dunwoody kevin we have already had this conversation all day and no one is buying into it. stroz seems to have some sort of proof that it is not true and will be shown at the game tonight if you are going.

By Marty B

February 13, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this

I think Dunwoody Kevin is Brian. They both bold names the same way and both end their paragraphs with the 3 dots. Of course, why would Brian sign on as someone else saying that he is a 3rd person? This just created a circular reference. I need a beer.

Or as Dunwoody_Kevin/Brian would say, I need a beer…

By Dunwoody_Kevin

February 13, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this

Seriosly though, where the hell is Brian? He is AWOL. I really miss him attacking other bloggers and calling them names. Not.

By Roswell Thrasherfan

February 13, 2008 5:45 PM | Link to this

dunwoody_kevin i don’t know where brian is but i will bet top dollar that stroz has knowledge to his whereabouts and activities if not his current gps coordinates. stroz? rawhide? someone tell us. should pj offer up a prayer for him?

By Marty B

February 13, 2008 5:52 PM | Link to this

So you guys have been blogging all day about which one of you is Brian and now you say he is AWOL and doesn’t even blog anymore? I don’t know if I should laugh or cry. Is this what happens when it takes too long to make a trade for Hossa? I hear that Bob being Brian is now upgraded to (E3)

By Roswell Thrasherfan

February 13, 2008 5:57 PM | Link to this

brian hasn’t been on the blog since 1/17/08 on an unrelated note buzillas fiance has not been seen since the montreal game at philips arena that same night on 1/18/08 a couple with bad french speaking skills were seen deboarding from the canadiens team plane in quebec

By Bob

February 13, 2008 6:30 PM | Link to this

*brian hasn’t been on the blog since 1/17/08 *

sure he has…

bob you can explain to me everything you know about hockey once the game starts but what would you talk about for the other 59 minutes?

Zing! He Shoots, He, oh, he’s off the post…

By Dunwoody_Kevin

February 13, 2008 6:37 PM | Link to this

Bob, we could go on all day about this, but really, Brian is just not worth wasting all this bandwidth talking about him.

Roswell Thrasherfan = Brian
Marty B. = Brian
off the post = Brian

Why else would 3 different people waste their time talking about Brian? Hmmmm…..

By The Other Bob

February 13, 2008 6:59 PM | Link to this

Dunwoody_Kevin - You’re talking about Brian now…so are YOU Brian????

Just sayin’….

By Roswell Thrasherfan

February 13, 2008 7:09 PM | Link to this

bob i just picked that day because stroz referred to it as brian talking that day. clearly i was just making a joke about him and buzillas fiance but i don’t believe they took off together

By Roswell Thrasherfan

February 13, 2008 7:14 PM | Link to this

i think other bob makes a great point since dunwoody kevin says that anyone who talks about brian is brian and he was talking about brian.

dunwoody kevin = brian

By Brendan

February 13, 2008 7:40 PM | Link to this

I hope we’re eall enjoying the game on Center Ice, unless you’re at this game. It’s 0-0, with 2:00 left in the 1st period.

In other news, Richard Zednik’s condition has been upgraded to “good.” Well, “good.”

By Brendan

February 13, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this

Eric Perrin’s first goal was called back. His second one counted. Credit Kari Lehtonen for making a stellar pass to Hossa, with just 0:57 left in the 2nd, to spring him for a break-a-way goal.

By Thrasher Ryan

February 13, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this

It’s 2-1 Thrashers after 2! Amazing, since we were outshot 18-3 in the 1st!

Perrin and Hossa with the goals. As Brendan stated, another goal by Perrin was recalled after Toronto viewed it. If i’m not mistaken, that’s the 2nd time in a week a Thrasher goal has been called back. And how was that goal different from the Andrew Ladd goal last night in Carolina?

KL has come ready to play, but 1 goal lead is NOT ENOUGH!

GO BLUE!!!

By In case you're wondering

February 13, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this

R. Stroz = Bruce Boudreau

By Thrasher Ryan

February 13, 2008 9:23 PM | Link to this

5:50 left in the 3rd! Still 2-1 Thrashers!

We CANNOT give out ANYMORE damn BONUS POINTS!

Put them away NOW!

GO BLUE!!!

By Thrasher Ryan

February 13, 2008 9:32 PM | Link to this

F%$^#G Klee and Zhitnik!!!

KL can thank the bums for the 2-2 game-tier!!!

Going to OT with some bonus points at stake! Damn!

GO BLUE!!!

By Brendan

February 13, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this

With the game on the line, Alex Ovechkin is left completely unmarked from the center ice red line all the way our our defensive zone faceoff circle, with 1:21 left on the clock.

How “badly” did someone miss THAT assignment? I think this is what Hossa has been talking about when he says, “I’m concerned about the direction of the team.”

This could have been a “4-point swing.” It’s now looking like with going to roll the dice in a shootout. And if we lose, when we were 1:21 away from a win, I think the “guilty party” or parties should skate after the game. That Ovechkin goal was inexcuseable from a “strategic” viewpoint.

By Brendan

February 13, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this

Eric Perrin has used this “pattented” move twice now for shootout goals. And Kozlov added another. Thrashers win the shootout, 2-0, and the game, 3-2. But a costly point was surrendered, quite unnecessarily, to the Capitals tonight. If the Capitals win this division by one-point, we’ll look back at this game.

By Brendan

February 13, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this

Caps and Cats (Florida) are in overtime, 1-1. Stay tuned.

By Brendan

February 13, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this

Montreal, top PP unit in the NHL, got a man power advantage in the overtime, and Kovalev connected for the Habs. Montreal wins, 2-1. But the Panthers did get a point for their effort. Still, I’ll take it. It beats a Panthers win.

By Brendan

February 13, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this

I meant to write, “Habs and Cats” above. I guess I still had the Capitals on the brain.

By Thrasher Ryan

February 13, 2008 10:06 PM | Link to this

Thrashers win 3-2 in the SO! Perrin and Kozlov with the goals!

Brendan—Perrin is 2 for 6 in the SO in his career.

And, I agree, the Klee—Zhit fiasco pi$$ed me off. This is why I have been saying since the 1st part of the season we have to move Zhitty. It’s just not gonna work out here. Now I see why he’s moved from Buffalo to NY Islanders to Philadelphia to Thrashers…. Klee is not much better, but for payroll purposes, he is cheaper.

Exelby—McCarthy MUST NOT be split-up! The Swedes are fine too.

The rest of the Defense MUST BE ADDRESSED before the deadline!

I thought KL shoulda got the 1st star, too. KL won this game for us, no doubt. Mad props to the kid!

By Nikita

February 14, 2008 12:09 AM | Link to this

(Yeah, and Zhitnik doesn’t even look like Buzz Lightyear. Klee can stop pucks and huge offensive lines with his chin alone.)

Good to see Kozlov playing better. Guess he got sick of sharing a line with Dupuis and Holik.

Speaking of Holik…if we’re not trading him, has anyone considered having him play out of position as a D Man? He’s big, and he likes hitting…but he’s getting a bit slow to be a forward or center.