AJC > Sports Thrashers > Blog > Archives > 2008 > February > 15 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USJersey, The Island & Waddell’s Gamble
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
(Sniff) Smells Like A Swamp And A Septic Tank
The Thrashers begin their five game road trip tonight in New Jersey and tomorrow night they play on Lon-GILSLAND. In fact, six of the next seven games will be played on hostile ice. They start the journey tied with Washington at 60 points, two points behind Carolina who beat Pittsburgh last night. To date, Atlanta is 0-2-1 against the Devils and 2-0-0 vs. the team with the big orange turd on their shirts.
Numbers Revision
When we began this season, I had projected that the Thrashers would need to gain roughly 96 points to make the playoffs again. Last year the number 8 seed in the east, the New York Islanders, snuck in with 92. However, as the season has unfolded, it looks more and more like somewhere around 90 or 91 could do the trick.
First of all, the Carolina Hurricanes and the Washington Capitals are on pace to earn about 84 or 85 or so points. I actually think as things progress, it’ll wind up being somewhere in the high 80s for both of them. Thus, as we have discussed prior, 90 points or so could secure the Southeast Crown.
Secondly, if you look at the 8th seed in the Eastern Conference now, the Boston Bruins, they are on pace for 90 points. So again, if Atlanta does well enough down the stretch to crest the 90-point mark themselves it could mean a playoff birth even without winning the SE.
Of course this is still all wild speculation, but hey…what else is a blog for anyway?
Now, what would it take for the Thrashers to get to 90 points? Well simple math puts it at earning 30 points in the last 23 games. Say, 15-8.
Yeah…I know.
Waddell’s Big Gamble
When discussing the Marian Hossa dilemma, there have been two main trains of thought. One is that the Thrasher re-signs the crafty winger, (sha-RIGHT)…or two, trade him prior to 3:00 pm on February 26th for a top-flight defender and/or center and maybe some futures.
May I propose a third alternative?
What if Don Waddell, who knows that failing to make the playoffs would prelude his exit from the Thrashers organ-I-zation, rolls the dice and goes for broke.
What I mean is…he keeps Hossa on the team, he puts on the trading blocks some futures & maybe a young-un or two in an attempt to land a couple of players to address our main areas of concern, (defense and center).
Basically, he adds to the team as is…makes as good a run as he can to not only get in the playoffs but actually advance a round or two in hopes that Marian Hossa sees the potential in the Thrashers future and opts to stay in Atlanta after all…even as a free agent.
Big gamble? Yup, sure is. But Donny is in a disparate situation right now. After firing Hartley he pretty much was given the team he built to run with…win or lose. So, this is all on him.
Besides, what does he have to lose? If the gamble doesn’t pay off… the team fails to make the playoffs and sees Hossa leave with nothing in return…he won’t be around to deal with the aftermath anyway.
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Comments
Commenting is now closed for this entry.
By d
February 15, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this
Hopefully the wise owners of the ASG would be able to see through such a ploy. Do you truly believe such a world class organization would allow its GM to jeopardize the future of its franchise by trading away its best prospects for a S/T gain?
By J(Z)
February 15, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this
Is it true or false that Waddell got an extension? I’ve heard rumors, mainly here. I think.
Canes lost Brind-A-Mour to an ACL last night. I really can’t see them staying in it. And I still can’t see the Washington Ovechkins running away with anything with Oldie the Goalie still around.
By B. Thenet
February 15, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this
In a perfect world we could hold on to Hossa and let him go as a UFA.
However, this team is so old, with so many holes to fill this offseason, you have to move Hossa for younger players that can help the team now and next year as well.
By Russian
February 15, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this
to Rawhide Good point. I said same thing. Don will keep Hossa until Season is over no matter what. If we make PO, Hossa will play in PO games. If we do not make PO, Hossa will take Vacation and play in Hockey World Cup in Canada for Slovakia team and than hit a market. Remember Savard’s situation. It was same scenario. Don kept him and than Savy went to Boston. I preferd to keep Hossa until season is over. Hossa - Perrin - Kozlov played much better lately.
By SabresFan
February 15, 2008 9:51 AM | Link to this
How ‘bout them SABRES! losing Hossa….you’re screwed!
By R. Stroz
February 15, 2008 9:57 AM | Link to this
WWDD - What Will Donny Do
Yes, there is triple meaning in WWDD.
More than likely, DW will do anything to save his backside and claim “incremental progress.”
That being the case, he keeps Hossa trades away the future and hopes to make the playoffs and win one game.
What should he do, trade Hossa to the highest bidder. Unfortunately, this scenario will not provide incremental progress and sends the statement that DW failed as a GM and coach.
Isn’t it obvious at this point that Hossa sees DW as the wrong direction for the team. In which case, the only way Hossa re-signs is after DW is removed from the organization.
By DBH 1
February 15, 2008 10:25 AM | Link to this
Interesting third option, but R Stroz is right. And I fear that gainging 30 points out of 23 games is wishful thinking, given that .500 is the apparent ceiling.
By Alan
February 15, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this
Well, we have a chance tonight to make it TWO games over .500! Can we do it?! With a 0-2-1 record against Jersey this year, all signs point to no. But let’s not forget being Ottawa in our last game of the season against them, down 0-3 in that season series. Then, being the only Southeast Division team to beat the Red Wings this season.
This team is capable of far better than it has played this year. We’re certainly due to go on a tear. So, let’s start that tear with Jersey.
As for Waddell’s gamble, so to speak, that’s what I think he will inevitably do. Keep Hossa while selling some of the farm. Do I think that’s the right move? I’m sort of torn on that one. On the one hand, Hossa is one hell of an asset for this organization. If Waddell and the ASG can show Hossa this team is committed to winning by acquiring some good people at (or before) the deadline, he very well may be willing to stay here on the long term.
On the other hand, if we keep Hossa, completely blow making any potential moves (for whatever reasons), and miss the playoffs (or get eliminated in round one again), Hossa is gone for good.
Waddell and the ASG had a chance to show Hossa in the summer of 2007 that this team was committed to winning by acquiring some good players to help this team dominate. They failed. We could be running away with this division, akin to how Detroit is running away with the Central division (and Western conference). The team screwed themselves in the beginning of the season, with six straight dismal losses.
Luckily, Atlanta hasn’t repeated a six straight losses again this entire season, but we haven’t exactly gone on a tear here either. A tear is exactly what we need to go on. Stop going braindead with the opponent’s top scorer wide open with less than two minutes in the game and a one goal lead, and definitely stop giving the puck away. Reducing SOG is another big thing we MUST do.
SabresFan - Nice of you to stop in, but it appears to me you all have some free agent crisis of your own, stemming from as far back as last year. So hey, how ‘bout them?
By Bob
February 15, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this
‘he keeps Hossa on the team, he puts on the trading blocks some futures & maybe a young-un or two in an attempt to land a couple of players to address our main areas of concern, (defense and center).’
no way he does that, i think the owners have him on a short leash and would block him from such an idiotic move.
there is only one option and it will happen, hoss will be traded and we’ll get a decent return and they’ll still have a shot to get in, but for the good of the organ-i-zation, hopefully we won’t and waddell will finally be let go.
then, as stroz pointed out, if they finally get rid of waddell and get a real gm who starts making good moves, hoss may want to re-sign here next summer. there are some around here that just don’t want to deal with reality, but i would hope they will finally see the light and realize when a star player like hoss leaves because of waddell, you can no longer look away from the one main problem we’ve had here since day 1, waddell is just plain in over his head and not capable of building an nhl club.
By hckyfnatik
February 15, 2008 10:50 AM | Link to this
I’ve been a season ticket holder since 1999. Waddell always does this (wait ‘til the last second to sign someone important to the team).I know he as a fuduciary duty to the owners, but he has one to the fans as well (we pay him, the players and help with the owners profits as well. I’m tired of waiting for results from Waddell’s antics. Hossa may not be scoring much, but he plays well CONSISTENTLY which is more than you can say for but one or two others. It’s HIS puck control skating and stick handling which, if it doesn’t set him up for a score sure lets others put it in the net. I’ve said it from the beginning of this year. If Hossa goes, so MUST WAddell also. I know I’m gone. Center Ice will take care of the games I want to see.
By ThrasherNY
February 15, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this
My two cents on the reality of being a Thrashers fan:
ASG does not care about winning a Stanley Cup; they only care about the bottom line on there P&L statement. I support this with the 5MM short of cap budget we are running when we all know we could be stealing the SE with that money invested in upgrades on defense and at the center position.
DW knows they are focused on the bottom line so he does the same. He will keep Hossa as we have a legit chance of making the playoffs and need Hossa to make this happen. DW will go for Rawhides gamble and likely buy some help before the deadline. Making the playoffs even to get swept (again) is a huge money factor to the club.
DW doesnt get fired even if the playoffs dont materialize. He is still here after the “guarantee” and the ‘sweep’. This pains me deeply but think about ASG’s goal, make money, Forbes and ever other source will tell you that DW runs an economically friendly ship. Now I would love to dig into this further as I dont see how Rucchin like deals make this possible but the reality is we could take the SE title two years in a row with a trimmed down budget.
My greatest fear is that Ilya pulls a Hossa when his contact is up. He will also have little to worry about financially and will likely want to take a run at the cup. Under our ownership this is not the goal and will not be any closer on the horizon. ASG will not sacrafice a season to retool the mix properly around Kovy.
By Thrasher Ryan
February 15, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this
Rawhide—Need 1 out the 2 this weekend. Really should push for a weekend sweep. Carolina is in trouble. Washington is about to be “buyers”. They have tons of cap room. Waddell must act fast and trade Mary Hossa.
New Mission next week, after the trade is made.
Thrash win tonight, 4-3.
By Nikita
February 15, 2008 11:12 AM | Link to this
So…keep Hossa and buy some talent? Maybe trade some journeymen and throw in some change to upgrade? It’s a great idea — and one that could put us in contention. Good thing D-Men are relatively cheap.
So, how much money do we really have available to us? And who’s available to trade?
I’d like to see the Thrashers maintain the lines that are working. That means keeping 1 and 2 (minus White). But we could trade Holik, and his salary would be a nice piece in getting another marquee player or a top-notch defenseman. Lose either Thorburn or Boulton (I vote Boulton — Thorburn’s smarter and takes fewer penalties). Trade Zhitnik for whatever we can get — maybe a Happy Meal? Others I think we drop/trade/whatever — Larsen, Dupuis. (Might be worth sending Dupuis down for more training if he isn’t useful for trade — he’s too inconsistent, but has great potential).
By Stats
February 15, 2008 11:20 AM | Link to this
Something along the lines of 12-6-6 or 13-6-4 might get it done. ATL seems to do OK in OT. The goaltending will have to keep carrying us with the offense sputtering, but if we can get 1 point instead of a loss, we may make it.
By BigD ThrashersFan
February 15, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this
As much as I like Hossa as a player ASG and the Thraserhs are in a position right now to leverage Hossa for the good of the team LONG RUN. Waddell should be meeting with Devils GM tonight — I’d like to see a Hossa for Gionta and Martin trade with a pick thrown in each way maybe? Martin solid defenseman (though a few injuries this season) signed for two more years — Gionta signed through next season.
I’m sure there are other deals out there similar but frankly Waddell must get something for Hossa that assures the stability of the Franchise or he is gone regardless.
Just my opinion — Let’s Go Thrashers
By Roswell Thrasherfan
February 15, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this
based on what the team has done over it’s history wouldn’t “incremental progress” at this point mean playoff victories? who would be upset with that and why would that option be a bad thing? if waddell makes “incremental progress” again and i get to see playoff victories in this city then i could care less if he is still the head man and how he does it
By R. Stroz
February 15, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this
More than likely, DW will do anything to save his backside and claim “incremental progress.”
That being the case, he keeps Hossa trades away the future and hopes to make the playoffs and win one game.
Roswell Thrasherfan - How many prospects and draft picks are you willing to sacrifice to get one playoff victory?
If you talking about getting into the second or third round of the playoffs, then maybe you do sacrifice some prospects and draft picks. But, just to get one or two wins in the first round and out, is not worth the cost of prospects and draft picks.
By Roswell Thrasherfan
February 15, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this
r.stroz in previous blogs you were stating what a bad scout and bad drafter waddell is so why do you care if he gives up every single prospect we have? or do you mis-remember saying all those things about our draft picks? if you are upset that we drafted alex bourret why are you so mad if we trade him for someone else like dupuis it doesn’t make sense. same goes for all our other prospects if waddell sucks at drafting like you say he does or you mis-remember saying he does then all those prospects must suck too so then get rid of them all before the trade deadline
By Fred
February 15, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this
DW is a bad talent scout, and i have several reasons for believing this statement. First and foremost, with the Draft, he has more or less missed in the later rounds, but thats not saying much. Finding Enstrom was nice and everything, but given how late he was drafted, i attribute this more to luck of the draw then to skill. With the high picks, other than the obvious GIMMES (Kovy, Heatley) he has pretty much bombed (Stephane?) The jury is still out on Kari…. With our free agent signings…. All the big name guys we have picked up as free agents that are still on the team (HOLIK) have been past their prime/best days/ etc. Same goes for trades….I would say his hand was forced with Heatley for Hossa and DeVries, but i think he could possibly have done better with the trade that brought Zhitnik here (Coburn has come along) and giving up the farm for Tkachuk, even tho it would have been nice to see him stay
By R. Stroz
February 15, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this
Roswell Thrasherfan
You don’t go to games by your own admission, you just sit on your butt at home and contribute nothing financially toward the organization. Yet, you continue to support the ASG company line. Why?
By the way, once again, what is the center’s responsiblity in the defensive zone? Can’t answer it can you, because you have probably never played the game.
Hopefully, DW will be gone and a decent GM can come and do something with the draft picks. There are only four or five players in Chicago that could possibly contribute to the Thrashers in the coming years after eight years of draft picks. By the way, can you name them?
Please put your head in the toilet and flush repeatedly. Hopefully, this process will clear your head up.
By Fred
February 15, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this
My last post came out kinda disjointed, but i knew what i was talking about!
By Roswell Thrasherfan
February 15, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this
actually r.stroz i just didn’t go to any games this year i didn’t know you were auditing my entertainment expenses for every year since 1999. as for accusing me of never playing the game i would love nothing more than to show you my skating ability why don’t you and i both head to a local rink and all the bloggers can come watch the both of us skate then they can be the judge of which one of us has actually played the game
By puckjunque
February 15, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this
I need Amens everyone!!
Bow your heads, hands joined on the keyboards
Oh Heavenly Father, Thank you for listening to our prayers and for the many blessings you have bestowed upon the Thrashers. Please place your healing powers on the Thrashers; restore strength to their physically injured and instill wisdom and insight into their leadership. Please lead the Thrashers tonight to be aggressive, show pride in themselves and this team and kick the devils a$$! AMEN!!
By Fred
February 15, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this
Unless one of you is an NHL player, i’ll come along too and make you both look like figure skaters ;)
By Thrasher Ryan
February 15, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this
Amen, PJ! I wanna see some PRIDE tonight also.
And a fight.
GO BLUE!!!
By five_hole
February 15, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this
Amen. Could you also ask about getting Ilya’s knee healed? And some secondary scoring? And there’s a big lottery tonight … . maybe we’re better off keeping it simple.
By GONYI
February 15, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this
Its time for the Thrash to be considered a class organization. And if Hossa doesnt want to be a part of it fine. But he must be traded then. You dont let a guy that walk. And BTW that big orange turf you refer to is LONG ISLAND not LON GISLAND but Long Island, the home of the 4 time Cup winning Islanders.
By Rawhide
February 15, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this
A-FREAKIN’-MEN! Thanks, PJ!
Fred - I’ll come too…it’ll give everyone something good to laugh at!
BigD, hckyfnatik, DBH1, d - Welcome…..
Oh and d, Do you truly believe such a world class organization would allow its GM to jeopardize the future of its franchise by trading away its best prospects for a S/T gain? - Don’t know if that was meant “tounge-in-cheek”…but some people think he did that this time last year….see also, Coburn.
By puckjunque
February 15, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the Amens!!
five-hole- that’s where I was leading when I prayed for healing. IK did not look well on Wednesday but thought it might be better to make it all encompassing.
By FormerIslesFan
February 15, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this
GONYI
Hate to break it to you man, but as someone born and raised on “The Island,” and who grew up in the heart of the Dynasty years, I can certainly vouch for RH in that it really is Lon Gisland.
And PJ Amen!!!
By Pucksdeep
February 15, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this
AMEN PJ!
By R. Stroz
February 15, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this
Roswell Thrasherfan
Sounds like a good challenge to me. How about a nice eight lap short track race? But then again if I met you at Kennesaw for a race, you would say I was Bob or Brian or who knows what clown I pulled off the rink.
By the way, you never said whether you played hockey or not.
Now back to hockey, once again what is the center’s responsiblity in the defensive zone?
Name the four or five prospects in Chicago which could help the Thrashers in upcoming years. Please leave out the AAAA players.
What is your definition of incremental progress? More than 97 points this season (not going to happen)? One playoff game win? A first round win? What would you give up in prospects and draft picks to get to each stratum?
By Alan
February 15, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this
AMEN, PJ!
By TheIslandersRule
February 15, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this
Speaking of turds, by writing this crappy article you are ironically showing that you have s* for brains.
And with that, you can kiss Long Island’s dynasty-havin, 18 playoff series in a row winning, four-time stanley cup raising a*!
By Roswell Thrasherfan
February 15, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this
1983 the last cup youll see
By R. Stroz
February 15, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this
AMEN PJ - And send the Devils straight to HELL.
By rockdr99
February 15, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this
A lot of good thoughts expressed, just want to add mine — ASG knows nothing about hockey — DW has continually made comments to this affect at the town meetings — DW has also said that this franchise cannot afford to have a payroll near the cap — My response is, if ASG doesn’t have enough money to play the game, they shouldn’t have sat down at the table — Has anyone checked the Hawks payroll lately — Surely they know that if they put a quality competitive product on the ice, Blueland will be rockin, near capacity — The time to spend money on “quality” free agents is during the summer, which we don’t seem to grasp — February is the time to add certain role players to a quality core, not remake the core — I enjoyed bringing in Tkachuk and winning the division, but lets face it, that is a very expensive banner that we have hanging there — We mortgaged the future to get it — DW was widely criticized around the league for paying too much and he said “Wait until the playoffs are over before you judge” — Well, the league assessment was right —
As for now, I don’t like Rawhide’s third option — Why? — Been there, done that — I’ll feel better about renewing my season tickets (I will), considering the draft picks and young players we got for Hossa and the cap room we will have available, WHICH WE MUST USE NEXT SUMMER — I believe the ASG will keep Waddell as a GM, they don’t know any better — But I am sick of hearing him try to justify why it is okay to keep giving up such a lopsided differential in shots on goal — If we are continually outshot 30-20 and both goaltenders have a 90 percent save percentage, that means on an average, we lose 3-2 — I have seen about 1000 NHL games in my life and that is as simple as it gets — As a coach, well, he seems to be a nice guy — It is too bad he couldn’t have let Brad coach this year, then we would know whether he can coach or whether we need to look elsewhere — One last thought about Marian Hossa, I have thoroughly enjoyed watching him play, but he is not all-world — If he thinks he can pick a future cup winner, he will be sadly mistaken — The number of players that have tried that and failed are legion — Ask ARod — But I will agree with his assessment, that as presently constructed, Blueland is’nt the answer — Nevertheless, GO THRASHERS —
By R. Stroz
February 15, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this
At last something Roswell Thrasherfan and I can agree on, no use for ISLAND-TURDS.
The IslandersRule - Thanks for signing Sutton, a.k.a. Mandy.
By rockdr99
February 15, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this
Sorry about the lack of paragraphs in my last posting — The computer didn’t read my mind like it was supposed to —
By ESG
February 15, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this
Rawhide—I completely agree that keeping Hossa and adding some other players is the way to go!! I think that it is more important for the franchise to make the playoffs than to get something back for Hossa…and I think that we all know that we won’t make the playoffs without Hossa (especially with Ilya still nursing his knee).
By NYIFANCENTRAL
February 15, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this
A newspaper provides you the priviledge of blogging for them and you insult other franchises in this manner.
Very unprofessional on your part.
By ranallo10
February 15, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this
TheIslandersRule — That’s like trumpeting the fact that the Braves won the last 14 division titles and had one World Series trophy to boot. When was the last title? Was it before or after the last two CBA agreements??
I’m just checking…
Todd Bertuzzi, Roberto Luongo, Eric Brewer, Wade Redden and even JP Dumont sure would help your roster now…whatever happened to them??
Here’s another question for you — What do you think will happen first, the Islanders win a cup or DiPietro’s contract runs up? I think the over under is in favor of DiPietro’s contract by about 3 years.
By TableHockey
February 15, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this
R. Stroz - the role of a center in the defensive zone is to fill in for Klee when he collapses on Zhitnik’s man isn’t it?
By Rawhide
February 15, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this
rockdr99 - Hey buddy, nice to hear from you and thanks for chiming in.
ESG - Howdy and welcome!
GONYI - Its time for the Thrash to be considered a class organization. And if Hossa doesnt want to be a part of it fine. But he must be traded then. You dont let a guy that walk. ? There are many who feel just as you do, and thanks for popping by.
Rstroz & RoswellThrasherfan - Nice to see you two agreeing on SOMETHING!!!!
TheIslandersRule - Yes…a quarter century ago that was true. Welcome and thanks for playing…
NYIFANCENTRAL - I try to welcome new bloggers, so I will afford you the same kindness…but goodness, folks! I have so many friends that are from the Island..and they all seem to have such thicker skin than that! NY fans normally are great…they can dish out ribbing and take it.
By FormerIslesFan
February 15, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this
Ranallo
Why stop there? Why not dig deeper to other former Isles and Isles’ draft picks that Mad Mike traded away:
Olli Jokennen, Mark Parrish, Jason Blake, Taylor Pyatt, Tim Connolly, Raffi Torres…
And here’s the one that hurts the worst:
When the Isles obtained Alexi Yashin, does anyone remember what they traded?
Bill Muckalt (okay, I could see that), Zdeno Chara (yes, that’s right) and their number 1 pick in the draft that year that was #2 overall. Any guesses as to who that turned out to be: Jason Spezza. You don’t think the Isles would like to have that trade back JUST a bit?!?!?
By Mr. Hanky
February 15, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this
HIIIiiiiii-DE-HO everybody!
I’m a BIG Islander fan ‘cuz they have my likeness on all their jerseys!!
GO ISLANDERS!! “Smear” ‘em.
By Cartman
February 15, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this
BEEFCAKE!!!!
ORANGE TURDS RULE!!
SOMEBODY GET ME A PIE…
By MashaPlayer7
February 15, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this
New York fans are a little cranky because even after the Giants SB victory, the New Englanders are ahead 5-2 in major sports championships this century! And we all know what the most popular form of birth control in NY is - their personalities!
By ranallo10
February 15, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this
FormerIslesFan — You’re right, I did leave out a few…I was attempting to be somewhat nice. I do give a little leeway for draft picks out of the first round as nothing is guaranteed, but those are some quite notable players moved for relatively nothing in return.
By ranallo10
February 15, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this
The interesting thing about Luongo’s pick (in my mind) was that it was Toronto’s pick that year, but was traded the year prior for Wendel Clark. So Vancouver fans can thank Toronto and New York for allowing Luongo to eventually find his way to Florida, and ultimately get traded to the Canucks franchise.
Talk about a convoluted ‘thank you’ card.
By NASCAR Dave
February 15, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this
RAWHIDE ARE YOU STILL IN MIAMI? WE’RE GETTIN READY TO HEAD DOWN TO DAYTONA FOR THE 500!
BUT YOU CAN BE SURE WE’LL BE KEEPIN UP WITH THE BOYS IN BLUE!
GO THRASHERS!
By NYIFANCENTRAL
February 15, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this
Not a question of anyone having a thin or thick skin here sir, just where’s the hockey commentary?
You read something like that and wonder why someone would waste their time visiting your blog?
For me, it will be one and done in terms of visiting. The AJC should find someone who can provide better quality.
By Alan
February 15, 2008 5:50 PM | Link to this
Dave - I thought you were using a gift card to get a new keyboard to fix the all caps problem you said you had? The screaming is hard on the eyes!
By Alan
February 15, 2008 5:59 PM | Link to this
NYIFANCENTRAL - The Hockey commentary is there. Methinks you’re just hurt because Rawhide says you have a giant orange turd on your sweaters. Knowing some Isles fans on the isle myself, they’ve echoed these sentiments before.
You have to remember, this is a blog on the fan’s perspective. No offense to Rawhide, but the beat writer’s blog, Craig Custance, is what you’re probably looking for in terms of hockey commentary.
By R. Stroz
February 15, 2008 6:11 PM | Link to this
NYIFANCENTRAL
For me, it will be one and done in terms of visiting.
Goodbye, don’t let the door hit you in the arse on the way out!
By Roswell Thrasherfan
February 15, 2008 6:15 PM | Link to this
who cares if he is upset alan if he doesn’t like the commentary or lack there of are you going to miss him being gone or he will keep coming back and it shows that rawhide has a good blog even though he says otherwise
By Alan
February 15, 2008 6:34 PM | Link to this
Well, Roswell, I think Rawhide’s blog is great. If he doesn’t come back, though, no hard feelings from me. He’s not an Atlanta fan, after all.
By Dunwoody_Kevin
February 15, 2008 6:39 PM | Link to this
He’s just mad because he looked down and saw a big orange turd on his shirt.
By Rawhide
February 15, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this
NascarDAVE - Been back since Tuesday night…just a short trip to the office down there.
Alan - There is a Beat Writer’s Blog, too??? WOW!!!
NYIFANCENTRAL - You know…your’re absolutely right…if I were to take out the two words “orange turd”…there is absolutely nothing there. It looked to me like there were 540+ word in the post…but on second look…..your right…only those two words showed up.
buh-bye…
By TNG
February 15, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this
Close your eye and imagine the most inept thing you possibly can - that’s what will happen. DW is a moron.
By The Other Bob
February 15, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this
NYIFANCENTRAL - Let me try and help you out, son. See, when someone says something like, “your team’s jersey looks like it has a big orange turd on it”….well, let’s see here…I’ll try and imitate a New York fan, (ahem)…”Oh yeah…well yous guys got jerzees dat look like a hockey stick stuck in a whirlpool caused by a flushing toilet”!
See…that’s how any descent, normal, self-respecting fan from Lon-GISLAND would respond.
Not like some snot-nosed, whiney, hyper-sensitive, cry-baby.
Gee…you get bent out of shape over two words, thnnk goodness you didn’t see this one.
By Manley
February 15, 2008 8:04 PM | Link to this
AMEN, PJ—sorry I am a little late with it.
Armed Forces Network was supposed to show the Thrashers game tonight but they are showing the Washington game instead. This is the second time a Thrashers game was supposed to be on and didn’t come through. Very disappointing as I have been looking forward to this since the AFN schedule came out last month. The only game they have actually shown was during the Hartley era. Oh well, at least the Grand Kamalian is there for me.
LET’S GO THRASHERS!!!
By Thrasher Ryan
February 15, 2008 8:04 PM | Link to this
It’s 2-1 Devils after 1.
Wanna know the best thing to come outta Jersey? Nuthin.
Now let’s wake the F+++ up and score some damn goals!
PJ—That “skirmish” does not qualify as a fight.
GO BLUE!!!
By Manley
February 15, 2008 8:16 PM | Link to this
YEAH KOVY!!! Now he needs to go on a real tear and make up ground on Ovechkin. We need some trophies in ATL.
Just downloaded the latest copy of The Hockey News and it has Ovy and Kovy on the cover—“The Greatest Show on Ice”. Haven’t read the article yet but it is nice to see him on the cover.
By Thrasher Ryan
February 15, 2008 8:17 PM | Link to this
Gionta scored a goal, it was 2-0.
Boults just gave Rupp a dance lesson.
The Kovy—Perrin—Thorburn line just scored. Ilya with the goal. It’s 2-1!
Damn, Zhitty just hooked someone!
GO BLUE!!!
By Rawhide
February 15, 2008 8:21 PM | Link to this
Manley is in the house!!!
How are you and our boys doing over there, Tanker??
By Brendan
February 15, 2008 8:22 PM | Link to this
Kovalchuk has his 40th. The Thrashers just missed a break-a-way that would have tied it. It’s still 2-1, Devils.
Amen, PJ.
By Thrasher Ryan
February 15, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this
Someone call the Sheriff! Perrin just got robbed!
We’re on the PP…… Kovy’s at the point!
GO BLUE!!!
By Manley
February 15, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this
HEY! Although I am technically in a tank battalion I am a proud Infantryman. New force structures have us all mixed together.
Things are going pretty well these days (knocking on wood), although it is rainy season. Would be going a lot better if the Thrashers games actually showed up on AFN when scheduled.
YES!!! Recchi comes through again. What a bargain he has been.
Hope everyone there is doing well.
By Rawhide
February 15, 2008 8:35 PM | Link to this
All is well here, Manley..no worries.
You just come home safe…and victorious!
By Manley
February 15, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this
Three reasons the Thrashers MUST go deep into the playoffs:
1) Because they are our team and we deserve it.
2) If they don’t, I feel like Kovy will get robbed of any serious MVP consideration. With all he has done for this club this season he deserves it.
3) I might be home in time for the Conference Finals. Stop laughing—it could happen.
I still think Enstrom should be in the running for the Calder, too.
By PJ
February 15, 2008 8:51 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the Amens!
Hey Manley
Good to know that you’re doing okay. I will mention your lack of visual to the Great Thundermaker, no promises.
Other Bob I love that post, It’s still good,……. two months later! I hope Rawhide drops a load of commentary tomorrow.
By Thrasher Ryan
February 15, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this
Right on, Manley! I amen that post! Good stuff. Agreed on all points!
It’s 2-2 after 2! Was that Todd White deflecting the Recchi-Ball’s shot? I think it was!
Look dudes, Moose is not gonna win the game for you. You gotta win it yourselves! Quit leavin the damn goalie out to dry! Take more shots! Crash the net! Thor did it! And Ilya scored!
You gotta pressure Jersey. Take them off their game!
Holik drew a penalty instead of taking one? WEIRD!
NEED MORE OFFENSE! Early too!
GO BLUE!!!
By Thrasher Ryan
February 15, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this
RH—I have counted 3 seperate times tonight Brad Larsen has FAILED to clear the puck out of the defensive zone at critical times. I really miss Slater at 4th line Center :(
GO BLUE!!!
By Brendan
February 15, 2008 9:18 PM | Link to this
Hedberg has so many of this “unfortunate bounces” type goals against him. It’s 3-2, Devils, with just over 7:00 left in regulation.
By Brendan
February 15, 2008 9:23 PM | Link to this
Florida 1, Washington 1, after two periods. Ungood. I think we just want someone to win in regulation time in that game.
By Brendan
February 15, 2008 9:32 PM | Link to this
Hossa scores*. We’ve got overtime!!!
By Thrasher Ryan
February 15, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this
3-3 we’re going to OT!
I’m gonna go out on a limb here, but if we go to the Shootout, Waddell should try Tobias Enstrom!
GO BLUE!!!
By Brendan
February 15, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this
Ken Klee is a bloody mess. But there’s “no call.” Yeah, blood just naturally spews down his brow and nose naturally. LOL.
Okay, here’s the “make-up” call on Kovalchuk. PP is on for Atlanta!!
By Brendan
February 15, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this
Enstrom passed up at least two (2) chances to shoot, alone in the slot, on the PP. He’s got to fire it, even if Kovalchuk is open on the wing. Take the shot, Toby.
By The great thunder maker in the sky
February 15, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this
MOOOOOOOOOOOSSSE!!!!!
By Brendan
February 15, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this
Elias scored for NJ. Perrin and Kozlov were stopped. But *Kovalchuk and Hossa * scored. Hossa on a “Slapshot.” Now Jaime Langenbrunner has scored to tie it, 2-2.
Round 5: Recchi is stopped. NJ can win it. Dainus Zubrus is up. STOPPED by Hedberg!!!
Round 6: Todd White. Too high. T. Zajak, stopped by the Moose!!!
Round 7: Holik, amid “boos” by Devils fans. Stopped by Brodeur! It’s up to Moose again, to save the day. John Madden … stopped by Hedberg!!!! Shootout continues.
Round 8: Is this the longest shootout ever for Atlanta?? Enstrom … missed the net. Can Hedberg save the day? Rachunek, hit the post!!
Round 9: Thornburn. Lost control of the puck. Up for NJ, Sergei Brylin. Stopped!!!
Round 10: Pascal Dupuis. SCORES!!! Just under the bar, right in the roof, where “Mamma hides the cookies!” Moose stops the finals shooter!
THRASHERS WIN!!!* The goal by Hossa with 10 seconds left in regulation set up the shootout win. Thrashers are two games over .500.
By R. Stroz
February 15, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this
OH HELL YES
By J(Z)
February 15, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this
MOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOSSSSSSSSSSSSSSEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!
You me and Dupuis with the game winner!!!! This was one of the most boring games I can remember until about 5 minutes left in the 3rd!!!!!
HUGE WIN!!!!! We’ve GOT to keep Hossa. I’m convinced. He’s been so much better the last few weeks!
By Manley
February 15, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this
Man! What a nail-biter. Now I’m all fired up and I gotta get a couple hours sleep before getting back to work (it is almost 6 a.m. here). What an important two points—and hard earned at that.
Take care all
By Rawhide
February 15, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this
Holy CRAP!!!! Holy CRAP!!….HOLY F-IN’ CRAP!!… What a GAME!!!!
By BG33Brown
February 15, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this
Who’s this Mooss guy?
Great win…..2 games above 500.
By J(Z)
February 15, 2008 10:04 PM | Link to this
And the Panturds beat the Craps!
By The great thunder maker in the sky
February 15, 2008 10:06 PM | Link to this
AND, to cap it all off Florida beat the Crapitals in regulation…
Sweeeeet!
And yer welcome
By Nix
February 15, 2008 10:07 PM | Link to this
Ya’ll, I’m one very happy camper. I’m out of Tums now, but very happy nonetheless.
Great teamwork there at the end. I’ll be an even happier camper if they worked together that hard and well for a full 60, but… they pulled it together when it counted and Moose was stellar.
Now - let’s do an even better job tomorrow night!
By The Other Bob
February 15, 2008 10:07 PM | Link to this
Now….ON TO TURD ISLAND!!!
By Brendan
February 15, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this
Hey, down 2-0, the Thrashers rally for a win on the road. When was the last time that happened? Also, the Thrashers avoid being swept by NJ in the season series. But the Devils do go 3-0-1 on the year. So, you can’t feel bad for the Devils tonight. “Sure you can!,” says a Devils fan. Yeah, how was that 3rd goal of yours? Goes right in off Exelby’s skate on a “blind” shot through the crease. Not exactly how New Jersey drew up that play. It might have been the game-winner.
Okay, Thrashers are two (2) games over .500 now. Let’s see if they can build on this. Panthers won in regulation time, 4-2, over the Capitals. So, the Thrashers and ‘Canes are tied with 62-points atop the division with identical 29-27-4 records. The Capitals slip to 27-26-6, for 60-points. And Florida climbs up to 60-point to join Washington, but they Panthers have played an extra game, with a 27-27-6 record.
By Thrasher Ryan
February 15, 2008 10:09 PM | Link to this
HOLY S#$%! You, Me, and Pascal Dupuis with the GW! Round 10!
Damn, that Thrashers kid in the front row behind Waddell really got his money’s worth out of this one! I envy that dude! I wish I coulda been there for that one!
Mission on, Rawhide! Win in regulation, tomorrow night! Make Mandy Sutton cry like a baby!
We broke the curse! We’re 2 games over .500!
Good job boys! Well done! Now get rested for tomorrow and kick the snot outta those NYI terds!
GO BLUE!!!
By PJ
February 15, 2008 10:10 PM | Link to this
Thrasher Ryan I believe that was “pride” we saw tonight.
GO THRASHERS!!!! GO MOOOOOOOSE!!
By Roswell Thrasherfan
February 15, 2008 10:15 PM | Link to this
wow i didnt see this coming never saw that many skaters in a shootout before in a thrasher game let alone such a gutsy come from behind win this is a game we are supposed to well normally quit in but they fought for a win and we come back with kari tomorrow night fresh
By Thrasher Ryan
February 15, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this
PJ—Yep, pride and a fight in a 4-3 Thrashers win! I’m proud of the boys. A job well done!
And if you have Center Ice PJ, the Flames are visiting your LA Kings at home at Staples Center tonight. I think it will be a good one.
By Thrasher Ryan
February 15, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this
And Go Flames! Sorry PJ, I still love the Flames. But I wouldn’t mind raiding your LA Kings roster for some young Thrasher talent!
GO BLUE!!!
By Brendan
February 15, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this
Seemingly forgotten in this win, is that without Kovalchuk’s shootout goal, this shootout never gets extended. Remember, Perrin and Kozlov missed and Elias scored. So, it was up to Kovy to Gitur done. Also seemingly forgotten was that Moose had the chance to win it by stopping Langenbrunner, but Langenbrunner scored. You’ll recall that Hossa scored in the 4th round to give us the lead.
By Russian
February 15, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this
Great GAME! Moose was unbelivable. We have to keep Hossa here, no mattre what. He is finishing his Contract in ATLANTA>>>>> And then we will se what happend. Game like that it is PO game. This is what they should play always.
By Midfield
February 15, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this
This is the best effort I have ever seen from these boys as a team. Hands down. The tying goal was something that Thrashers seemed to always be on the receiving end of: relentless forecheck, great pinching at the blue line and fearless crushing the crease. The shoot-out goals were beautiful. And what a game for Moose! I am glad I saw that.
By Brendan
February 15, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this
Well Russian, if Hossa is traded, he’s elevating his trade value. Which is good for the Thrashers.
By Tony C.
February 15, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this
Why not trade hossa and then re-sign him? Look at how quickly the Blues and Flyers fortunes turned after they made their moves last season.
That’s what I would do. Because let’s be honest, this roster is a really long shot to make the Eastern Finals as-is. But a team that had gotten the (continually) missing top-flight defenceman and a promising 2nd-year players, along with a re-signed Hossa (not hossa) and the promise of some real talent devloping in the minors sounds like a team that could truly make some noise in 2k8-2k9
Great win, loved the way they refused to roll over.
GO BLUE !!!
By Midfield
February 15, 2008 10:42 PM | Link to this
Also, special thanks to Bolts. Not only he jumped Rupp at the opportune time, it sure looked like he was in a tussle with the entire Devils bench at one time.
By PJ
February 15, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this
TR Unfortunately I do not have center ice. The Kings aren’t doing so well this year but I support them over the Ducks out of loyalty. If Atlanta got another hockey team here, put it Buckhead and drew tremendous corporate sponsorship, would you suddenly become a Buckhead Beavers fan? I didn’t think so. Also, my OLDER sister told me that Gretzky used to play there, not that I personally remember…… Feel free to give me highlights in the morning.
By Nikita
February 15, 2008 10:51 PM | Link to this
I take back what I said about Boulton. He played GREAT tonight, smart and tough.
By Brendan
February 15, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this
Tony C., I think Waddell knows that he can’t re-sign Hossa, at the terms and conditions he’s requested. (It’s unknown what his demands are, but I’d think it’s something like 8-years/$64 million, and/or the promise of a Tier One Center for his line, locked up on a 4-year deal.) Waddell would trade him, if he thought he could get equal or superior value for him. Perhaps what Waddell has found … is that he can’t get equal or superior value for Hossa. So, “Door #3” is … hang on to Hossa and hope and pray the Thrashers win the division and win a few games, or possibly even a series, with Hossa. Even though he knows Hossa is gone in the offseason. It’s a gamble he’s GOT TO TAKE to save his job. Then again, maybe Waddell will “surprise” me. DW has more documented escapes than the “Great Houdini.”
It comes down to this. If Waddell trades Hossa … he’s got to get equal value or superior value for Hossa. If he can’t, he’ll hold on to him … because his job ‘may’ hinge on the playoff berth.
By Thrasher Ryan
February 15, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this
PJ—We had Brent Gretzky on the Atlanta Knights. Our old IHL team in the 90’s. I don’t need to tell you about them. Just listen to the Anthem at a Thrashers game. I can only speak for my crowd, but we love our Thrashers, Flames, and Knights.
The Buckhead Beavers is pretty good, too! Haha!
By Smoothie
February 15, 2008 11:08 PM | Link to this
Moose was stellar once again when called upon for an important “get Kari some rest” start. Kudos to Johan for leaving it on the ice.
By The Other Bob
February 15, 2008 11:13 PM | Link to this
The Buckhead Beavers? Wasn’t that a gentlemen’s club on Pharr Road?
By Midfield
February 15, 2008 11:23 PM | Link to this
Is it just me, but the team seems to look work harder on the road more often than at home? Hint to Waddell: lock ‘em up in a three-star hotel on every night before the home games.
By R. Stroz
February 15, 2008 11:51 PM | Link to this
TableHockey - Exactly, sorry for the delayed response.
By Alan
February 16, 2008 12:31 AM | Link to this
Rawhide - Amazing, isn’t it? The beat writer has his own blog!!
What’s even more amazing is that we pulled out a win after going ten rounds in the shootout. I think that’s Atlanta’s longest. We definitely made Jersey work for their loser point tonight, LOL.
By harleyman
February 16, 2008 8:08 AM | Link to this
Huge win last night! Is anybody gonna have legs for tonight? Man, if we could just pull off a deal and resign Hossa in the summer. My gut tells me not to get cute and resign his arse now, however. Why wouldn’t a top line center want to come to play in the ATL with two marquee players like Kovy and Hoss? It can be done if the ASG would get off the hip. And whoever said Toby has to shoot more I agree. He’s got a nice little slapper. Thanks for letting me chime in from rural Ga. I read this blog everyday, but only post when I’m pumped.
By Rawhide
February 16, 2008 9:32 AM | Link to this
Harleyman - I hope you get pumped more often, then…what do you ride?
Midfield - Yes…Bolts did a fine job Dancing with the Devils and gave the team a lift when we needed it!
Great Thundermaker - Thank you, thank you , thank youuuuu!!!
TWO GAMES OVER .500 FINAL-FRICKIN’-LY!!!!
By PJ
February 16, 2008 9:34 AM | Link to this
Midfield I think you’re on to something…
Rawhide I’m really “straining” for inspiration today. Help.
By Rawhide
February 16, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this
PJ - Don’t know…but you’re gonna have to &%$# or get off the pot here…
Just remember, if your first inspirational though doesn’t work, go with Number 2.
We are all counting on you to pass through to us a prayer that will help our team give a massive effort…so put into it every fiber of your being!!!
By Jethro
February 16, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this
PJ - We dont want no crappy prayer.
By Jethro
February 16, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this
PJ - We need a really healthy body cleansing prayer today. So, shove one out for us.
By Nix
February 16, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this
PJ, for what it’s worth, I think the guys need good health, strength, focus and, most importantly, the desire to be their best for the benefit of their teammates.
Let’s go, Thrashers!
By five_hole
February 16, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this
PJ As I believe we will be playing in Flushing tonight, I would personally pray that we don’t take any cr#p from the Islanders. We should leave their offense constipated and their defense lax(ative). Oh, and can I ask for a courtesy flush, please?
By erock
February 16, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this
RANGERS Assigned left wing Marcel Hossa to Hartford of the American Hockey League.Maybe we can get Marcel in a trade before the deadline and entice HOSSA to stay?
By Brendan
February 16, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this
EROCK, we can’t “afford” (Marian) Hossa, to “re-sign” him. I think that’s the ‘stumbling block’ from the Atlanta side. Kovalchuk has to be re-signed to a 12-year deal, in the Summer of 2009. I hate to say it, but the only way Atlanta would “begin” to be able to afford Marian on some 6-8 year deal, like he “allegedly, supposedly” wants, though that’s HARDLY been confirmed, is if Marian Hossa ABSOLUTELY and TOTALLY lays an EGG in the playoffs, for whichever team he is playing.
That way, instead of $8 million, he might only get $6 milllion. But even thennnn, someone would pay him the $8 million he could probably fetch.
Folks, if Atlanta re-signs Hossa to an 8-year/$64 million contract, where does that leave Kovalchuk in 2010? And let’s face it, if we don’t offer him a nice deal in 2009, like we should, we’ll go through ANOTHER YEAR just like “this one” with Hossa.
Think about it. THINK HARDER.
Hossa is gone. The issue now is … keep Hossa and go for it, hoping that there will be playoffs, a division title, and playoff wins. Or, trade Hossa for a decent return, and gamble on that for playoffs this year, or regular season success with our new players, NEXT YEAR. That’s how I see it, anyway.
By puckjunque
February 16, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this
Allright Everyone, Amens please….
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 blessed the Thrashers. Please continue to heal our injured, give insight to our leadership and build the spirit of this team. Please empower the Thrashers tonight with unyielding confidence, endurance and determination to kick the islanders a$$! AMEN!!
By Brendan
February 16, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this
This Rangers-Sabres game has beena disappointment. 5-0, NYR. On NHL-TV, from 1996, it’s Game 3 of the World Cup Finals between Team USA and Team Canada. It’s 1-1, going into the 3rd period. Yes, you could just look up who won this team, but thennn … why would watch it? :)
By Brendan
February 16, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this
AMEN!!, PJ.
“Oh Mandy, I saw you … out over the highway … and I hit you todayyyy, Oh Mandy.”
“Sutton, $3 million later, and you still suck.” — (Poster) Rone.
By PJ
February 16, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this
Jethro - I hope you find the prayer a solid one considering the massive effort it took.
By timmythebrave
February 16, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this
Amen! Go Thrashers. Let’s get to first place in the division tonight!
By Rawhide
February 16, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this
A-FREAKIN’-MEN!!! Well done, PJ!!!
Now, Let’s go DUMP THE ISLANDERS and get win NUMBER TWO this weekend!!!
By Nix
February 16, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this
AMEN, PJ!!
By erock
February 16, 2008 5:29 PM | Link to this
BRENDAN….There is a way to pay both Ilya and Hossa and still stay below the ASG salary cap.Losing HOLIKS and RUCCHINS salary will help.Our scouts will have to get with it so we can get the best bang for our buck. TRADE HOSSA..HOLIK…RECCHI…ZHITNIK…GET DRAFT CHOICES FOR THE NEXT 2 YEARS DEEP DRAFT AND USE A FEW PLAYERS FROM CHICAGO THAT WE HAVE ….IT CAN BE DONE !!
By Alan
February 16, 2008 5:50 PM | Link to this
AMEN, PJ!
By Christy
February 16, 2008 6:09 PM | Link to this
Allow me to add my own Amen.
With a special prayer to St. Jude tossed in to help DW do this right…
By Manley
February 16, 2008 6:22 PM | Link to this
Amen, PJ!
By Tony C.
February 16, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this
I don’t think you’d have the same situation with #17.
A) He’s Russian-we all know those boys are keenly aware of their ultimate value. Meaning that DW would have a very definitive idea of what #17 would want in terms an length.
B) #17 Would not play as coy as Hossa has. Think back to when he was holding out in the presason a few years ago. “I love Atlanta, I want to play here, but I want to be paid what I’m worth” (or words to that effect).
C) Even DW should be able to get the idea that locking up key pieces of the puzzle/or trading away valuable assets should be done EARLY so as to avoid this sort of drama (I mean after Savard and Hossa situations? He’s got to get it right? right?).
I’m normally with you but not on this one Brendan.
GO BLUE !!!
By Smoothie
February 16, 2008 7:09 PM | Link to this
Alright boys, it’s time to play with “unyielding confidence” and determination. Let’s jump on those Islanduhs early and often so Kari can save his strength for the 3rd period when he will need to be at his best. LET’S GO THRASHERS!!!
By Smoothie
February 16, 2008 7:30 PM | Link to this
Why oh why does our PP suck so bad??
Toby needs to shoot the puck once and awhile so the D can’t overplay to Kovy’s side. Time to mix things up…how about Kozzy back on with Hossa and Kovy. Recchi isn’t shooting the puck enough from the right circle…perhaps Slava will.
By Thrasher Ryan
February 16, 2008 7:58 PM | Link to this
A late amen, PJ!
It’s 1-0 Islanduhs after 1.
Hey, where’s Zhitty? Why is he scratched?
I think DW probably just gave the boys a tongue-lashing in the locker room. Good. Maybe they’ll come out with some fire and bring that offense!
GO BLUE!!!
ATL Hawks just made a major trade today, trading 4 Players to Sacramento for Mike Bibby. The Hawks are gearing up for the playoffs.
By Joan Rivers
February 16, 2008 8:01 PM | Link to this
My Gawd! The Thrash-ahs are playin’ tighter than my face!
By Rawhide
February 16, 2008 8:05 PM | Link to this
TR - Zhitty is out with the flu….
By Smoothie
February 16, 2008 8:06 PM | Link to this
God, this team really has a knack for sucking a$$. I’ll be very surprised if there is any comeback tonite as we can’t even muster any shots on goal…pathetic how we get beat to every loose puck and on every play at the boards. Bring up the Wolves so we can watch some kids who are willing to work and scrap.
By Brendan
February 16, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this
Tony C., I appreciate what you’re saying about Kovy. I agree that I suspect he’ll be very straight-forward and forthcoming about what he wants and expects, vis-a-vis next contract.
But … what if what he wants … is to vamoose outta here? Well, in that instance, Kovy should discretly ask for a trade to allow DW the opportunity to maximize the return. Waddell could say, “No, you’re essential to our playoff run, you can leave when you hit free agency.” If that happens, what’s Kovalchuk supposed to do? He’s got to play out his existing contract, unless he plans on returning to the Russian Super Elite League for the foreseeable future. There isn’t any transfer agreement with Russia.
Okay, that was Scenario #1. Scenario #2 is … let’s say Kovy is straight-up honest about what he wants. His demands are (1) “I must be paid more than Crosby and Ovechkin. (2) I must have a Tier Once Center on my line. (3) I want a contract that ostensibly reflects the balance of my career. I want 13 years, but I’ll settle for 12. (4) I want a ‘no trade clause’ or a ‘limited movement clause,’ such that I can only be traded to a team I approve.”
Now what? Pay it, right? Honestly, those demands aren’t nearly as “excessive” as they sound in the new market place for a talent like Kovalchuk, in his age bracket. He’s just notched his fourth (4th) 40-goal campaign, he’s scored 30-something as well, and he has won a share of the “Rocket” Richard Goals Scoring Trophy (with Iginla and Nash).
Okay, as I’ve said many times … what if Waddell can’t offer anything more than four (4) years? What if the ASG won’t entertain a $10.1M “cap hit” for Kovalchuk? In other words, his hands are “tied.” Waddell doesn’t control the money, the ASG does. They may not be “comfortable” with a 12-year deal. (It just exposes how ‘in over their heads’ they really are. I doubt the Red Wings would hestitate to pull the trigger on that one.) There are times, very ‘few’ times, when a “non-traditional” contract length is warranted. Kovalchuk is the exception that proves that rule. Some owners get it done. And some owners have to make excuses. Guess which kind we have?
Now, admittedly, this lawsuit does somewhat absolve the ASG. They are required to maintain the value of their franchises until the matter with Belkin is settled. This is why Forbes Magazine, not a sports publication, has Don Waddell ranked as the #6 GM, of all-sports. Waddell takes care of the bottom line. The “self-imposed” salary restrictions are part of the reason he is ranked so highly by Forbes.
So? What’s the point? The point is, Tony C., that it (another year like this one, shrouded in uncertainty over the future of a star player) very well could happen again, even with a guy as “straight-forward” and “honest” as Kovalchuk may be. Tony C., I hope I AM WRONG and that you are RIGHT. I don’t want to go through this situation (Savard, Hossa) again, if it can at all be avoided. I doubt ANY Thrashers fan would.
By Thrasher Ryan
February 16, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this
Okay, that was Scenario #1. Scenario #2 is … let’s say Kovy is straight-up honest about what he wants. His demands are (1) “I must be paid more than Crosby and Ovechkin. (2) I must have a Tier Once Center on my line. (3) I want a contract that ostensibly reflects the balance of my career. I want 13 years, but I’ll settle for 12. (4) I want a ‘no trade clause’ or a ‘limited movement clause,’ such that I can only be traded to a team I approve.”
That’s the one I choose Brendan. And I would give him whatever he demands. No doubt about it. He is the most important player to this franchise. You cannot afford to lose him.
Rawhide—It’s good Popovic gets some action then. We gotta keep everyone fresh.
OK Thrashers, shoot the damn puck!
GO BLUE!!!
By Harleyman
February 16, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this
RAWHIDE- 97 Heritage Softail.
What I was afraid of tonight. A second behind the Isles getting to the puck, but hell, we got to start sucking it up and get after it.
By J(Z)
February 16, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this
Did I just hear that right, outshot 32-6 with 6 minutes left in the 2nd???? WTF??????????????
And what happened to Kari’s new helmet? Obviously thats why we’re losing, he’s back to the Kill Bill mask!!!
By Smoothie
February 16, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this
Just when you thought it couldn’t get any worse!!! Jeezzus that was the worst waste of 20 minutes in my entire life…a trip to the DMV yields more hope than this lifeless, lackluster bunch of charlatans.
I know they burned a lot of energy last nite, but c’mon, this is a team of paid professionals who are supposed to be ready to play every day! This is not the first back to back on the road all season for God’s sake. Play with some gol darn pride you SOB’s!!!
I love Eric Perrin but my gawd every pass he makes tonite is awful…he is absolutely terrible. Time to bench him and put Slates on the second line. While we’re at it, move Hossa up to play with Kovy and White and see what happens.
By Thrasher Ryan
February 16, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this
It’s 3-0 Islanduhs after 2! WTF! Outshot 37-7!!! That’s pathetic!
KL is having another crappy game. If KL gives up 1 more goal, he must be pulled. This is not open to debate.
Oh please, I hope Waddell is in there scaring the everlasting crap out of them! This is UNACCEPTABLE. This game is WAY too important of a game. We are not allowed to lay over and die!
The offense MUST show up in the 3rd. No F&%@$% excuses! You must get it done. Failure is not an option.
The best way to jumpstart the boys is to tell Boults or Thor to start a fight right off the bat. PLEASE let it be Mandy!!!
GO BLUE!!!
By Brendan
February 16, 2008 9:16 PM | Link to this
4-0 Islanders. Tonight’s the night to re-negotiate KL’s next contract! Let’s ink ‘im for cheap!
Okay, what’s up with the shots on goal tonight? Answer: It’s never easy for any team to play “back-to-back” nights, but it’s EVEN HARDER when you’re the 2nd oldest team in the NHL.
Think about it.
By John
February 16, 2008 9:16 PM | Link to this
KL is not the problem take hockey 101. This team is falling apart if it ever was together in the first place. Sure it is easy to blame the goalie but start looking at the stats before you talk. This team could care less about winning a game come summer everyone who can leave will.
By Thrasher Ryan
February 16, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this
10:14 left in the 3rd. 4-0 Turds! Turds! Why KL is still in there is beyond me.
Thrasher offense has no excuses tonight. Tell me why each of you should not be traded?
With time left in the 3rd, I hope you at least show some heart and pride.
AT LEAST LOSE LIKE MEN!
By Millie
February 16, 2008 9:23 PM | Link to this
SOG are 43-8 to Isles….and some of you blame Kari ???!!!??? Just sweet…
By Brendan
February 16, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this
On Center Ice, Channel #779, Washington is leading Tampa Bay, 1-0, with 15:30 left in the 3rd period. On Channel #776, Florida and Carolina are tied, 4-4, with 7:00 left in the 3rd period.
In such games, I think I just hope that one team wins in regulation, rather than having our SE division opponents sharing points. It doesn’t appear that we’ll be getting any points tonight.
This is very typical of Atlanta, following a 3-game winning streak. Let’s just hope it doesn’t get answered with a 3-game losing streak. Which is also “typical” of not only the Thrashers, but the whole rest of the NHL, unless you’re Detroit or something. But even the “winged wheel” has lost five (5) in-a-row.
By J(Z)
February 16, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this
KL is still stopping over 90% of his SOG’s He’s not the problem. As much as Boulton’s fight last night sparked the team, it shocks me that neither he nor Thorburn tried to start something before the 2nd intermission.
44-7 shots. Unbelievable. And it ain’t over yet.
By Brendan
February 16, 2008 9:32 PM | Link to this
Ray Whitney just scored for Carolina. The ‘Canes lead Florida, 5-4, with 2:45 left in the 3rd period.
By Thrasher Ryan
February 16, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this
KL being pulled is merely to wake the team up.
Statements need to be made.
Pride needs to be proven.
We just might do it. We just might set a new franchise record tonight by breaking the one from 1999-2000 Season 1.
People, examine each KL goal please. I counted 3 Softies.
Exelby’s reaction was just stupid.
By Brendan
February 16, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this
Down 4-2, Carolina came all the way back to win, 5-4. Erik Cole got banged up in this one. Not seriously. But enough to bother him. With Rod Brind’Amour out of the year, the ‘Canes can’t afford any more injuries. Carolina defeating Florida hurts right now, but the Canes may not be who we’re battling for 1st place down the stretch. It could wind up being Washington or Florida. So, tonight’s loss by Florida “helps.”
Washington just took a 2-0 lead on Tampa Bay, with 5:45 left in the 3rd period.
What was the final “shot total” in the Thrashers-Isles game?
By J(Z)
February 16, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this
49-10
4 days off, apparently they went ahead and took today off to make it 5. Ughhhh
By Alan
February 16, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this
SOG are 43-8 to Isles….and some of you blame Kari ?
Indeed. Pretty moronic, I think. “They’ve scored four goals, it must be the goaltender’s fault!”
KL is still stopping over 90% of his SOG’s He’s not the problem.
EXACTLY.
People, examine each KL goal please. I counted 3 Softies.
Soft (which seems to be a matter up for debate) or not, WHERE WAS OUR DEFENSE?! The goaltender is THE LAST LINE OF DEFENSE. Our checks were inconsistent, and we gave them MORE THAN ENOUGH ROOM TO SHOOT THE PUCK, but yes, please, it’s all on Kari. All Kari’s fault… gotcha.
I watched the entire game, and all the chances they had, they took advantage of. We left shooting lanes open, we let them get the puck and win all the battles. Our team really stunk out there tonight.
But we lost because of Kari. Do you know how dumb that sounds?!
By Rawhide
February 16, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this
This game was lost in front of KL…not by KL.
Outshot 49-10….
THAT stinks!
By Brendan
February 16, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this
Semin just scored for the Capitals to retake the lead, 3-2, over the Bolts, with 3:00 left. Tampa rallied from down 2-0 to tie it. Huge momentum crusher for the Lightning. I don’t think Ovechkin has a point in this game yet.
By B. Thenet
February 16, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this
Star of the Game: The Isles Scorekeeper who saved more shots than DiPietro based on how many shots on goal were not counted.
The NHL should get involved in that, it makes a mockery of the game when the scorekeeper is blatantly cheating.
Hats off to Exelby. That scum Comeau tries to take liberties late in the game and X popped him in the mouth whether he dropped the gloves or not.
By Rawhide
February 16, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this
B. Thenet - I heard DE say something about that…personaly I didn’t see it that way…but I could be wrong.
I would be really curious to know if anyone taped the game and could review it to check it out.
By Brendan
February 16, 2008 10:06 PM | Link to this
49-10?? We must have played a “powerhouse” team tonight!
In this Tampa Bay-Washington game, the shots were something like 41-36. We’d have ALL be a lot happier with that total.
Kari Lehtonen should NOT be asked to face 40 shots a night. He’s not Helen Keller. He’s not the “miracle worker.” He’s steadily improving his contractual value. His save percentage is getting better. The time to save money on Kari’s next contract is right now. What would it “hurt” to re-ink him during this 4-day layoff?
Anyone?
Look folks, the draft pick compensation is only likely to be a 1st, 2nd and 3rd rounder, with an RFA offer sheet. We’ve invested SIX YEARS (!!) in Kari Lehtonen’s development. Why quit on him now? We can avoid the RFA offer sheet entirely by re-signing him … right now. Probably at a nice little discount, while he’s got a losing record and slightly elevated GAA.
This would be horrible, why?? We’re going to sink or swim with Kari Lehtonen. Might as well get him back onboard for the next 2-3 years. If Pavelec wins the starting job from him, then we’ve got one heckuva “backup” goalie for the future.
By Smoothie
February 16, 2008 10:09 PM | Link to this
Rawhide — are you serious? Who in their right mind would want to watch that crap again??
By Thrasher Ryan
February 16, 2008 10:15 PM | Link to this
People, look. I’m sure we agree this was a monumental collapse of the entire team. That has been stated by everyone. And we all agree.
KL has played better games. All I’m sayin. I never said blame the game on KL. IMO, 3 of the 4 were softies, 2 of those 3 because of bad positioning on his part.
I’m sure we all know KL stopped 45 of 49 shots. That’s awesome. Don’t take anything away from that. But he has played better games.
THRASHER OFFENSE however, has NO DAMN EXCUSES!
What a bunch of gutless losers! NYI is not a tough team! You guys crapped the bed!
Mary Hossa just really got himself traded.
Others better be scared, too. Our next game is Thursday, and I suspect an alternative roster to tonights. Atlanta Spirit has no room for “actors” on payroll! Sorry.
What an embarrassing COLLAPSE! I wanna see you guys tell me your tired after 3 games in a week! That is not an excuse! 3 games? You gotta be kidding me. I remember playing games 6 nights a week. Your miserable performance has no excuses.
We will chalk it off, but it will remain in the franchise history books. 10 shots. Lowest total EVER. Absolutely pathetic.
What time is practice tomorrow? I can’t wait to watch you losers skate 200 laps at 90%. Go get em, Waddell. You have every right. Goodnight, Thrasher WIMPS!!!
GO FLAMES!!!
By Brendan
February 16, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this
Rawhide, I didn’t record tonight’s game. I tape a lot of Thrasher games, but not this one. Had I taped it, I’d be eager to record over it soon!!
I’m watching the Predators-Blues game right now. I am concerned St. Louis making the playoffs this year. I would have thought them to be a “lock” for 2nd place in their division back on Thanksgiving. St. Louis still owns Atlanta’s 2nd round pick in this Summer’s Draft. Yes, from the “Tkachuk rental.”
Nashville just scored to tie it, 1-1, with 7:15 left in the 3rd period.
By Rawhide
February 16, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this
Smoothie - LOL…point taken!
By Brendan
February 16, 2008 10:51 PM | Link to this
Rawhide, do you think NOW is the time to “get ‘er done” with KL’s next contract? While we have this break? Or do you think it’s better to wait to see what happens this Summer, in terms of an offer sheet? Or, Door #3 … wait ‘til the season ends, but re-ink him before July 1st?
For those of you thinking, “I’ll take the four (4) 1st round draft picks coming from that RFA offer sheet!!” Well, my friend, that would take an offer sheet starting at $5,859,531 to materialize. I highly doubt we’d see that put on the table. It’d take an offer of $4,687,530 to get two (2) first rounders, one second round and one third round pick. An offer of $3,515,647 would equal a 1st, 2nd and 3rd rounder.
Rawhide, would it be “worth it” to take “that” (1st, 2nd, and 3rd round picks) as the compensation over just offering Kari 3-years at $2.75 million right now? And if it takes 3-years/$9.0 million, then do it?
Or, are you thinking something entirely different. Sayy, something like … “Let’s not reward him with any kinda contract until we see EXACTLY what we get out of him from here down the stretch, and hopefully into the playoffs?”
By Rawhide
February 16, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this
Brendan - AAaaugh!!! You’re making me think at 11 o’clock on a Saturday night??? I’m trying to figure out how to put tonight’s turd-bomb of a game into words for you people!!!!
Seriously, I would sign him now if the deal can be done…as you pointed out earlier, his value is increasing with his play since the ASG.
But, I don’t pretend to know what is going on in DW head…
By Thrasher Ryan
February 16, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this
Brendan—Re-ink him now at cheap is definitely good idea… but before July 1 is a must. Nothing too fancy. I need to see a playoff push out of him before I truly believe enough in him to invest in him. He needs to stay healthy also.
I’m satisfied with KL and Pavelec next season. If Pavelec wins the starting job, good for him. At least then we still have KL as backup.
By Brendan
February 16, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this
Thank you, Rawhide and Thrasher Ryan. I don’t do my “best thinking” on Saturday nights, either!
My “adopted” Western Conference team, the L.A. Kings (You’re welcome, PJ), just made a goaltending change to start the 3rd period and scored a PPG in the first 30 seconds of the 3rd period. Pheonix still leads, 3-2. Bryzgalov is in net for the Coyotes, of course. LaBarbera, for the Kings.
The Blues blew their 1-0 lead to lose to Nashville, 2-1, in overtime. When does “Hockey Night in Canada’s” Hot Stove segment air? 2nd period intermission?
During the Sabres-Rangers telecast this afternoon, their “commentary guy” said that Brian Burke was the front-runner for the Toronto Maple Leafs’ GM position, but that they were also strongly considering Neil Smith for the post. I can see them talking with Smith, who is not restricted, as I understand it. But Brian Burke is the “active” GM of the Anaheim Ducks. How can this guy say the Maple Leafs are close to signing Burke as GM? That’d be tampering, if I ever heard it.
By Tom
February 16, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this
If you have the stomach, watch NHL on the fly tonight (215 on directv). The operative words were about the Thrashers, ” A disgusting performance” repeated over and over…
By Thrasher Ryan
February 16, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this
Billy Knight just made a move to get his team into the playoffs and try to save his job.
At least some people know how to think ahead…. which isn’t saying much, cuz I can’t stand the guy.
Is it really the ASG’s fault? Because they seemed to just let Billy do what needed to be done. I keep hearing how they are “holding Waddell back”. Are they really? Or has he just not manned up and flat out asked them to help him do what needs to be done?
Honestly, what is Waddell waiting for? We need better DEFENSE, a #1 CENTER, and SCORING.
What a choke job tonight. Pitiful.
By LAC
February 16, 2008 11:42 PM | Link to this
Just awful… No excuses, we have had this shots problem…
But least we remember who BUILT this team… The Great waddell… Just shows he knows nothing about NHL talent or anything else… He simply has killed this team and these owners will do nothing about it.
By Viking
February 16, 2008 11:49 PM | Link to this
I just tallied the stats for Trashers back to back games. It is a horrible read;
1 reg. win 1 ot win 1 so loss 9 reg. losses!!!
They scored 23 goals but let in 58! Lost the shots with 287-425.
Have not checked how they compare to other teams, but it could not be many that have a worse point record: 5-21!!!
And guess what, there are another 6 back to back games left this season…
By R. Stroz
February 17, 2008 12:10 AM | Link to this
Viking - Here’s the worst part.
Of the remaining 21 Thrashers games this season, 12 of the games are back to back games. Therefore based on the Thrashers record in back to back games this season, we are nearly guaranteed 6 loses.
By ranallo10
February 17, 2008 12:17 AM | Link to this
Thrasher Ryan — I’ve got a few things that hopefully help you find your answer regarding the ASG and the Hawks recent move.
1 — They (the Atlanta Spirit Group) care about basketball.
2 — Basketball trades work differently where a team in a rebuilding phase (Sacramento) can easily shed payroll so long as the receiving team matches that payroll in returned (often expiring) contracts attached to vet players. In essence, Bibby was traded for payroll relief (found in three players expiring contracts) and a draft pick. It is not often you find an comparable trade made in the NHL due to the workings of the CBA.
3 — The ASG cares about basketball.
4 — The Hawks were lucky to find a team in the right situation (rebuilding year) that would take their crap (Williams, Wright, Lue, Johnson) off their hands in exchange for a decent return (Bibby). In comparison it’d be like trading Klee, Zhitnik, Larsen and Stuart for Sergei Federov…in the current NHL, it’s not going to happen often.
5 — The ASG cares about basketball.
6 — The NHL has had one “blockbuster” trade thus far, and many middling trades of sub NHL or fringe talent for an equal value. There have yet to be any big names moved for future picks, or several players moved for an impact player. Would it be wise for Waddell to make the first move and break the bank for a hopeful injection of defensive help or a true #1 center? I contend that it’s not likely going to be cheap and would most likely cost the Thrashers the future to help the present. I feel he’s weighing the benefits as we speak.
That’s all I’ve got right now, it’s too late for loathing.
Did I mention that the Atlanta Spirit Group actually care about basketball?
By stendec
February 17, 2008 12:45 AM | Link to this
Take whip to them Rawhide. NO EXCUSES ACCEPTED! Only Falcons, God bless their souls, have EVER looked this pathetic of those pretending to be professionals representing Atlanta. Not even horrible Hawks have sunk to these unfathomable depths! Did Long Island hookers drain ALL their energy? No, do not pin this debacle on KL despite trio of soft goals. They would not have mattered anyway!
By Viking
February 17, 2008 1:02 AM | Link to this
Some more depressing facts about the second part of back to back games in reference to our division:
As mentioned earlier, Thrashers point record so far this season over 12 games with 6 to go is 5-21.
Carolina: 13 games (5 left) 9-19
Washington: 14 games (4 left) 18-12
Tampa: 8 games (5 left) 8-9
Florida: 11 games (2 left) 7-15
In other words, when it comes to the last part of back to backs, Washington and Florida have an edge in the playoff race. These games does not seem to bother Washington (and they even have a winning record) and Florida has only two left.
Thrashers have most of these dreadful games left and they suck at getting any points out of them.
By Viking
February 17, 2008 1:17 AM | Link to this
Another thing about the as good as for sure a loss second half of back to back games:
5 of Thrashers remaining 6 games are against teams in our division!
By rj
February 17, 2008 9:14 AM | Link to this
This season is over. Even if they made the playoffs all you are going to see is 4 extra games that would look like a carbon copy of last night’s game. WHAT IS THE POINT ??????
Time to clean house. Keep Kovy, Enstrom, Ex, Dupuis, “Roving Eyes Kari”[ future trade bait] and one or two more. Bye bye Holik, Kozlov, Slater, Havelid,Klee, McCarthy, Popovic, Zhitnik,,,,,,
AFAIAC they can send home the GM and all the coaches too.
Time to start over.
By Jeff Craig
February 17, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this
How does 5 year 35 million dollars stack against other players like a Hossa??? Also, if the owners will trade for Mike Bibby no reason not to sign Hossa
By Brendan
February 17, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this
Hossa has to want to sign here, Jeff Craig. Until this Belkin lawsuit is resolved, the Thrashers will be living with more “self-imposed” budgets. There just isn’t, apparently, more that $7 million-a-year earmarked for Hossa. That is, again, assuming that Hossa would “opt” to stay.
I do respect the whole “Kovy needs a contract come July 2009” concept for the overall advancement of the team. Kovalchuk can’t be allowed to leave.
Yes, I know. Kovalchuk holds all the cards as a pending UFA in 2010. I understand that. But if management sat down with #17 … flat out asked him, “What do we have to do to KEEP you?,” and then the ASG and DW did it, why would he leave? They did what he asked. Hypothetically.
By ScottBravesfan
February 17, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this
This sucks we are going to lose Hossa then in a couple of years Kovy is going to walk. This lawsuit has to get settled and then the ASG has to decide if they want to own the Thrashers or just the Hawks and Philips Arena. If they don’t want to own the Thrashers then they need to sell them so someone who cares about the team.