Ice Man

By J(Z)

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

I’m done. Trade all our UFA’s. It’s over. This team is just not that good. Just look at the regulation record. 2nd worst in the NHL. Trade Hossa, Holik, Hedberg for prospects & picks and maybe we can do what the Phlyers did and be a lot better next season. It’s over. Sell! Sell! Sell!

By Tony C.

February 22, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this

J(Z)-

But look who’s still going to be making the picks….I’d rather see trades for prospects than picks…Because if DW has shown me anything consistently it’s this: A) He can adhere to any budget that approaches “rational” and B)He can’t draft blueliners for sh!t

By B. Thenet

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

Time to bring up some of those kids we have in Chicago who played well for us during the regular season.

It is pretty impressive that for a team that is -40 on the Goals For vs. Goals Against that Little, Stuart, and Haydar were all in positive on +/- while in Atlanta.

By Kozzie13

February 22, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this

I was there last night and it was one of the most disgusting performances I’ve ever seen. Thank Christ we have Kari or we would be seriously cooked. That being said, its time to trade the UFAs. A team thats played like we did last night and against the Isles is not going anywhere. I don’t care about making the playoffs, I care about winning the Cup. I don’t want to hurt our future just so we can back in to the playoffs from a weak division and lose in the first round. I want us to actually have the future look good for once, and have something to look forward to next year.

By Ron

February 22, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this

The Dallas Stars have excess defensemen. They have 3 rookies who have been filling in, quite well, for injured Zubov and Boucher. Dallas could also use some offense for the upcoming playoffs. Trade Hossa to Dallas for 2 of their 3 rookie d-men and a couple of draft picks. Use the freed up salaries of Hossa and Holik to buy one or two forwards over the summer. Get rid of Zhitnik. I don’t care how, just get rid of him. Klee too.

By Downtown ATL

February 22, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this

What do Ottowah, New Jersey, Pittsburgh, and Montreal have in common? All four would clean the ice with our team in a seven game series. We’d probably have to play three of these four to reach the cup finals. Why bother trying to make the playoffs. Get young and cheap now.

By Brendan

February 22, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this

Inst-a-poll time:

A is for “firsale”.

B is for “mortgage the future to ‘fix it’ by 3:00 PM, Tuesday.”

Now, as this is an election year, go forth and VOTE.

By rj

February 22, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this

I keep checking the AJC and NHL sites hoping to see some announcement saying that DW and all the coaching staff has been fired and that Holik, Zhitnik, Recchi, Kozlov, Slater, Klee, McCarthy, etc had been traded for one 3rd round pick.

Really, I don’t know that it is the players fault. Much like last year at this time, the defensive system the team is using DOES NOT WORK. If the players don’t have any confidence in the coaches how can you expect them to play hard ?

Nowadays you can’t win playing soft hockey. You have to play rough.

GO PENGUINS !!!! A team fun to watch because of hard work, lots of hitting and lots of skill.

By Ron

February 22, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this

Does everyone realize the Thrashers are 6 from bottom of the LEAGUE standings? Not Conference, LEAGUE. If we can move down several spots, shouldn’t be to hard, Thrashers would have an excellent shot at 1st overall pick in the draft.

By Talon

February 22, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this

Watching the game last night, it felt like my dog had just died…. My hope is dwindling…

By RICK

February 22, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this

I hear you Ron. They wouldn’t have to tank it either. They already have. Exelby sucks

By EROCK

February 22, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

By Downtown ATL

February 22, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

A

By TableHockey

February 22, 2008 1:02 PM | Link to this

you’re on to it Ron. Let’s aim for the cellar and get a good draft pick.

I think the word was that the first seven ranked for draft are pretty solid.

By robo

February 22, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this

Waddell-for the love of pathetic poor play; if you learned one thing these past two games is that this team will not go anywhere without putting guys in front of any goaltender we put on the ice that can play PRO HOCKEY defense. If you are planning on trading Hossa, get your moneys worth on some defensive help that will be around for awhile. We are the laughing stock now as any team, major or minor league could have their way with us. I cant even watch anymore after last night. I hope those defensive guys are barfing up lungs in practice today.

By timthebrave

February 22, 2008 1:06 PM | Link to this

I haven’t given up on the season. That’s more than I can say for half the Thrasher players. What is wrong with this team. Sometimes you get beat and I can live with that. 95 shots on goal in 2 games I can’t live with. Being out muscled I can live with, being out hustled is unexceptable. They need another defensive strategy. The sit around and wait for KL to make the stop is not working. We need pressure on the puck before they set it up in the offensive zone. We need a coach that will hold the players accountable for lack of effort. Not just holding Zhitnik accountable, but the whole f*** team. We need players that can play defense. We need to trade or sign Hossa now. This team needs to step on the gas to have a chance of making the playoffs. The management needs to also step up or we can expect this s** for years to come. Go Thrashers

By Thrasher Ryan

February 22, 2008 1:06 PM | Link to this

I challenge the Thrashers to a game vs. Me, R. Stroz, Rawhide’s kids, RoswellThrasherfan, and any other blogger on here that plays.

We can take em, boys! A damn Pee Wee team could beat these losers!

Brendan—I vote Choice A. SELL! SELL! SELL!

Absolutely disgusting that these are “Professional Athletes”.

By Talon

February 22, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this

One problem I saw last night (and all season) is that we try to wait for the perfect pass or try to be too fancy… Just shoot the damn puck..Keep on the pressure, and be there for rebounds…good things will happen..

By THRASHYOU

February 22, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this

TRADE HOLIK, HOSSA,AND HEDBERG. GET GOOD PROSPECTS AND BRING UP THE YOUNG GUNS FROM THE WOLVES. WE NEED SOME SIZE ON THE BLUELINE AND A PLAY MAKING CENTER. I SURE DO MISS SAVARD!!! THOSE 54 ASST AND 14 GOALS SURE WOULD LOOK GOOD IN ATL.

By Brendan

February 22, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this

If the wheels do fall of the Thrashers’ bus, I want it noted my that choice for a “Top 5” pick is Doughty, not Stampkos. Although, I’d certainly “settle” for that. Yes, yes I would!!

We can always try for Tavares next year (2009)!!

By five_hole

February 22, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this

And this is the team that beat Detroit, arguably the best team in the league, and by a large margin no less.

If you believe that players were “getting over the flu” (benefit of the doubt here) but still weren’t 100%, couldn’t you bring up a couple of bodies from Chicago, just to have SOMEONE in the lineup that wouldn’t embarrass you?

About the only thing that I thought encouraging was that Kovy looked a little more comfortable with his knee. BTW; does anyone know if the Pittsburgh scum-bag got his suspension? It sorta dropped off the radar.

By Stats

February 22, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

Did any of you all find yourselves secretely hoping that CAR got to 50 shots on goal? I did. At least it would give us something new to talk about. I mean SOG in the 40s is old news - it is so, like, last week.

KL was not sharp, but neither was Cam Ward. Last night would have been a great opportunity for the team to help out KL rather than him bailing out them. Maybe win a high scoring game.

Also, it cannot be overlooked that the offense is causing part of the defensive problems. ATL cannot move the puck into the zone and keep it there.

By BG33Brown

February 22, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

The problem with this team isn’t talent. Its leadership. Leadership leads to accountabilty and this team isn’t accountable.

Waddell and Holik are a pathetic excuse for GM-Coach-Captian combination. As for Beast, if you can’t motivate these guys, you don’t deserve the head spot. You have 4 days to fix our defensive coverage…..and………

We need leadership. A GM with a vision, a coach who can communicate and make the players accountable and a captain that has the respect of the players and can relate to them. All Holik does is call his teammates out…that isn’t leadership and it doesn’t build a team who plays for each other.

In short-fire DW bring in Burns/Quinn/Stevie Y as the GM. And make Anderson the coach. All year, our best (read most responsible players) have been wolves called up. Not the Holik’s of the world.
And bring in a UFA captian who is willing to lead this team.

By BG33Brown

February 22, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this

The problem with this team isn’t talent. Its leadership. Leadership leads to accountabilty and this team isn’t accountable.

Waddell and Holik are a pathetic excuse for GM-Coach-Captian combination. As for Beast, if you can’t motivate these guys, you don’t deserve the head spot. You have 4 days to fix our defensive coverage…..and………

We need leadership. A GM with a vision, a coach who can communicate and make the players accountable and a captain that has the respect of the players and can relate to them. All Holik does is call his teammates out…that isn’t leadership and it doesn’t build a team who plays for each other.

In short-fire DW bring in Burns/Quinn/Stevie Y as the GM. And make Anderson the coach. All year, our best (read most responsible players) have been wolves called up. Not the Holik’s of the world.
And bring in a UFA captian who is willing to lead this team.

By Rawhide

February 22, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

Five_Hole - I think the NHL league office has chosen to turn it’s back on doing anything about the punk Rutuu’s knee-to-knee and attempt to plant elbow-in-ear against Kovy.

I know he played last night against Montreal and scored a goal…but I haven’t heard word-one about sitting his butt down for a few games.

Boy…it sure would be a shame if someone did a knee-job on Cindy Crosby like that.

What do you want to bet the league would act within an hour if that were to happen?

By ames

February 22, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

rj: I, too, keep refreshing the AJC Thrasher’s page in hopes of seeing some kind of “major” move by the Spirit. Unfortunately, that’s not going to happen because they are absent & will never hold Waddell accountable.

By five_hole

February 22, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this

Rawhide - sorry; I don’t take sucker bets.

It would also be a sucker bet to ask if it were one of the “teacher pet” teams (any of the original 6).

By J(Z)

February 22, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this

stats - lol, I was rooting for 50! As soon as the game was over I went online to check. And yes, I was disappointed!

By John

February 22, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

What do you guys think about a deal with the Bruins? The B’s want Hossa because they have one of the best GAA in the league—solid goaltending, excellent Defense, but weak offense. I live in Boston and can tell you the B’s would be reluctant to give up D Mark Stuart who is a very solid young defenseman—but I think they would part with him along with others for Hossa. Another intriguing possibility would be D Andrew Alberts, a solid legit, young, top 4 D-man whose been out for a while due to a misdiagnosed neck injury (they thought it was a concussion, but it wasn’t….oops, so much for those briliant Boston Docs!). I’m thinking Stuart or Alberts, Winger Glenn Murray (who would replace some of the offense youy’re losing and comes off the books after next year) and a #1 Draft Pick—for Hossa. What do you guys think? Would this work? BTW—you guys know Savard is a stud. But let me tell you—WE ABSOLUTELY LOVE GLEN METROPOLIT. He hasz been Mister Dependable after Bergeron went down….why did you let this guy GO? He busts his butt every night…is one of the best PK’s in the league…just LOVE him! One other thing—-did Savy and Kovalchuck not get along

By J(Z)

February 22, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this

I would be disappointed with Stuart, injured old Murray and a #1 pick to be honest. I don’t think that’s enough. I’d much rather deal with San Jose.

And yes, I miss Metropolit!!!!

Savard and Kovy supposedly didnt get along, but they looked like they were having fun with each other all star weekend, so who knows!?!?!

By Tom

February 22, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this

Is it bad when my 7 year old who watches every game (usually after school the day after on Tivo) calls #22 TREE and #12 Charmin ?

I am blaming the RStroz guy for infecting the household.

By John

February 22, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this

J(Z)..appreciate the feedback. Interesting you say you’d rather deal with SJ. Fact is,we’ve got perhaps the best group of young prospects in NHL IMO in Boston and Providence. F Phil Kessel, G Tukka Rask, and D Mark Stuart are all highly sought after. D Matt Lashoff is a big, puck moving stud D in Providence 1st round pick who is very highly regarded. I hope you’re not in love with Cheechoo and Marleau. Marleau has been awful and Cheechoo’s production has faded and is nothing without Joe Thornton. I think Boston is a perfect match for you guys because you need Defense and we have D-men who can help now AND in the future. May not be sexy names now—but these guys are desirable because they make small money and could help you guys rebuild your blue line. I think you’re playing musical chairs with Cheechoo—and especially Marleau. JMHO

By J(Z)

February 22, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this

I’ll admit i haven’t followed Boston too closely. I’m more interested in Matt Carle amongst the SJ organIzation. I think a change of scenery can be good for Marleau. And Cheechoo has picked things up quite a bit the last month

By Tom

February 22, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this

I agree on missing Metro. Not sure if it was a good long term move trading him straight up for KT.

By B. Thenet

February 22, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this

We have plenty of smallish PKer types on the team now, I don’t think having more would help.

I liked what he brought, but I think Perrin is an upgrade over Metro.

By John

February 22, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this

Hey, I hope it works out for you guys one way or the other. I’d love to see Atlanta get a really great team…good for the league. And we’d love to get Hossa for some badly needed Offensive punch. Also glad to hear that Metro had fans in ATL. He personifies everything thats great about being a Hockey player and his attitude and work ethic are not only top shelf-but they’re contageous. We’ve got 2 kids—Lucic and Kobasew who have thrived with Metro. I don’t know where we’d be without him. I could see why you might have let him go—his size and his age. But he’s like having a coach on the ice.

By Rawhide

February 22, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this

John - Thanks for chiming in, I hope you do so more in the future!…I would tend to agree with J(Z)…in return for Hossa we have to get a TOP defender and/or center, (of course at this time just about anyone would be an improvement)…

Right now he is the main prize in the ‘08 Trade Deadline-Pa-Looza and DW has…HAS to land a big fish for him in return.

As for Metro…boy I wish we had his work ethic on one of our lines right now. Hated to see him go…

Tom - If he starts running arund the house screaming “Un-Good”…that’s on me, sorry.

Is it just me or are there a lot of newbies around here….welcome all who fit that description.

By John

February 22, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this

Rawhide, thanks. I was lurking due to Hossa. Honestly, I think you may be expecting too much IMMEDIATE help for Hossa, even though he is the top prize. Problem is, teams will not pay up for Marian as a rental. It would be dumb to give up a front line player and/or great prospects for a rental. So, some one needs to make an offer acceptable to Waddell—THEN get a 48-hour negotiating window to TRY to get a deal with Hossa. And he wants mega bucks for mega years. Personally, I think you guys are better off getting a couple of solid contributors now AND 2 top picks and/ or elite prospects. Do you really think you’re a Marleau or Cheechoo away from a Cup?? Frankly..I look at the Thrashers and think—if I could add 2 solid defensemen and a more disciplined system and another Goalie…I could win that Division. I think what you need—we have. I think what we need—one sniper—you have. May be wrong, but…

By R. Stroz

February 22, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this

Tom - I didn’t infect the household, I’m trying to clean it up for you.

TREEs clean the air by creating oxygen and Charmin can be used to clean up household accidents.

Now, if DW had a number on his back, then your kids would be infected.

By Talon

February 22, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this

As a “newbie” let me introduce myself; I’ve been reading these blogs for over a year top to bottom, A very loyal fan, but I don’t chime in much as I don’t think my knowledge of hockey in general is up to par.

By BG33Brown

February 22, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this

John I actually sat next to Metro’s family on their way to Boston to join Glen. His wife told me that Hartley just rode Metro and Sim so hard that it was really difficult for them to enjoy being on this team.

Metro is a great player, and led our team in plus/minus before his trade. I think we all miss him.

By John

February 22, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this

BG, thats nice that you to be with Glen’s family. I gotta tell you—my teenage son says Metro is his FAVORITE player on the Bruins (though my son wears a Savard Jersey and owns a Kovalchuck Jersey). I know Metro probably has limited skills—but he lays it on the line EVERY SINGLE NIGHT. He is the best PK player on our team along with Axelson. In a Blue Collar town that loves guys who give it 110%—we just love Metro. He defines “character guy”. The league needs MORE Glen Metropolits. Period.

By Rawhide

February 22, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this

Talon - A very loyal fan, but I don’t chime in much as I don’t think my knowledge of hockey in general is up to par. - As if that keeps most people around here from speaking their minds… :o)

I kid…I kid…

By Stats

February 22, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this

Since it will not do any good to post stats about what is the problem and how to get better - here is something. ATL may set some records this year. Here are some that may fall:

Shots in a game allowed (83)

Shots in a period (33 - ATL has been close on this one)

Shots faced by 1 goalie (2488 - this really might be in peril if KL had not been injured).

TEAM RECORDS -

Shots faced (KL could break his own record of 2075 from last year. You think this is funny, but if he continues to face 40+ per night, he could get there in about 10 fewer games than last year)

Saves (1892 held by KL - same logic as above)

Thanks to KL and Moose - we should stay clear of the NHL record for goals allowed 446 (we only have 191) and ATL team record for goals allowed (349).

ALSO - KL has become the ATL record holder for shots faced in a career. YAAAYYYYY.

I cannot find the NHL record for team shots allowed in a season. I would love to know how close we are.

By Tony C.

February 22, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this

Boston John-Trust me, we as fans miss Metro. But as he told our beat writer Craig Custance “I’m not one of Bob [Hartley]’s guys.”

I know that #17 really enjoyed playing with him, and yes, I am pleased to see him do well in Boston-He and Kobasew are tearing it up.

Also I’ve seen metro pull some truly sweet moves this season, that breakaway goal at the end of January stands out.

And yes, I’d love to take Stuart of yall’s hands.

So have fun “Riding the Metro”!!!

GO BLUE !!!

By R. Stroz

February 22, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

Random Thought of the Day:

If someone who had just watched a few Thrashers games went to buy tickets for the first time and saw the ATTACK TWICE on the arena diagram, did he/she buy tickets on the other side of the arena because he/she thought that meant the Thrashers would only be on the ATTACK TWICE side of the arena two times the entire game?

By John

February 22, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

TonyC…I was at that game when Metro pulled off that Highlight move—it WAS awesome. The Metro-Kobasew-Lucic lines kicks butt EVERY time they’re out there. Glad you recognize Mark Stuart’s abilities. He’s actually the one young player I would NOT want to give up. Tony, one thing I’ve learned is this game of hockey is not a Fantasy League game. The Bruins are 31-23 after being forecast for last in the Conference AND losing their #1 Goalie, Manny Fernandez AND their #2 weapon in Patrice Bergeron FOR THE SEASON. They did it by a.) getting a great coach in Claude Julien who instituted a disciplined system…b.) getting character guys like Metro and kids who would follow directions and assignments every night…c.) rewarding great play with EXTRA minutes no matter who you are..and d.) insisting that EVERY player take care of business on BOTH ends of the ice (yes, even Savard!). Go out there and build a solid wall on the Blue Line, punish opposing teams and be hard to play in ATL, forecheck, and reward effort. I hope we can hook up with you guys on Hossa. We just need SOME TALENT! Rumors have it Boston may be the front runner.

By Russ

February 22, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this

John - I saw a report yesterday that listed some of the supposed offers the Thrashers have received for Hossa, and one of them was Kessel and Stuart. Of anything I’ve seen that by far is the deal I would be interested in (if it’s true). If Boston could work out a long term deal with Hossa, I would ask them to throw in a second round pick and the deal would be done. Stuart will never put up many points, but he is well on his way to becoming a dominant shut-down d-man. That would be nice for the Thrashers because they haven’t had that type of d-man since Buzek…no wait…Slegr…no wait…Heins…no wait…Burt…no wait…Reirden…OK EVER!!!!!

By Russ

February 22, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this

I don’t want to make excuses for Kari, because he still let’s in the occasional soft goal…don’t let Stendec fool you, he really does. But…I’m thinking it’s probably hard to play consistently well when you are sleep deprived. I mean, he has to constantly wake up from nightmares of vulcanized rubber flying at his face, right???

By J(Z)

February 22, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

I wanted Claude Julien here after the playoff disaster!!! Maybe he needs to be included in the Hossa deal!!!!

By John

February 22, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this

Russ, I heard the rumor about Kessel and Stuart for Hossa. I also heard there could be a #1 or #2 round pick thrown in by Boston. Gotta tell you—as a Boston fan I would NOT do that. It would be GREAT for ATL—you’d be bolstering your Offense AND Defense with established young players for many years to come. What I WOULD be willing to do is give you guys the choice of Kessel OR Stuart AND your choice of anyone except G Tuuka Rask among our prospects. That would leave D Matt Lashoff—a big, puck moving first round pick who will have a long career in the NHL…PLUS a First Round Pick AND a 2nd Round Pick. Honestly, this could set you guys on the right track for years to come. WE are in a unique situation of MANY top, desirable young players. We’re also set at Defense and in the Net. OUR one need is a big sniper up front. It screams MARIAN HOSSA. I think we can really help you rebuild in return for the one glarinmg missing ingredient on our team. It just feels like a good fit. And the reason WE would want to make such a move form immediate help is—-this is one year when there’s no dominant Eastern Conference team

By Tony H

February 22, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this

John - Thanks for chiming in. It’s nice to have a blogger from another area come on and actually want to talk hockey. And, yes, Boston has two players that I wish we still had. Metro was one of my favorites because he gave it all every shift. Savard was the best center I ever saw put on a Thrasher uniform.

I think your synopsis of why Boston has done well is spot on. It started with your coach. Can we have yours in a trade for Hossa?

By Christy

February 22, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this

Anybody else see that article on Phlips being #3 in the country for attendance at concerts and other events - after being #6 last year? and #8 world wide in 2007?

Further proof that ASG is holding out $ for no good reason….

By John

February 22, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this

Tony H, Thanks for the gracious kind words. I’d give you more than 2 prospects for a bottle of Georgia Southern Hospitality!

Hockey, more than any sport, is ATTITUDE. Here in Boston, we had a lot of talent in past years, including Joe Thornton-and did NOTHING.

Look at the Rangers. They’re a Fantasy League Dream—Jagr, Gomez, Shanahan,Drury, Straka Lundquist..they’re a team of All Stars. And they’re tied with the Bruins. And the Bruins swept them this year.

I look at the Thrashers and I see MORE than enough talent to win: we don’t have anyone as valuable as a Kovy or Hossa. But for the first time in many years we have ATTITUDE and a SYSTEM.

Julien is like having 3 All Stars on the Ice. Guys like Metro can NOT be measured by statistics (but that team-best plus/minus with ATL last year said volumes).

You build a team from the Goaltender and work your way out. You MUST have a Lights Out Goalie, or TWO guys as good as Kari IMO minimum. You guys need to get two more STAY AT HOME and take-care of business Defensemen. You need to make your Forwards more accountable in your own end, even if that means p—g off Kovy or eating into his Point Production ( I know Kovy has made strides on 2-way play this year, thats a start).

Not to beat a dead horse, but you need a true enforcer or two and make teams afraid to come into your rink. Opposing teams look at ATL and Tampa as soft teams, probably because they’re in Southern Cities.

But you know what—those teams PLAY that way. Its more a finesse game. You do NOT need more talent. You need more SMART players (very dumb letting go of Metro) and more tough players.

You manage your payroll from the bottom-up. You get the best young guys who come cheap—allowing you to afford depth in key positions.

I really wish you guys well. I like Atlanta as a city a lot. Went there this summer and had a blast at CNN and even the Coke Museum thing, and having beers at several prime Peachtree area Hotel bars.

I’d love to retire in Atlanta someday. I want the Thrashers to be known as “the Beasts of the Southeast”. It can happen. But I think you guys need to start with a new coach, a new attitude, and stop trying to simply “outscore” your division oponents. JMHO

By Sage of Bluesland

February 22, 2008 6:32 PM | Link to this

Where are the ever-faithful SHEEP who have defended Donny and his “work” this past decade??? You know who you are—Come on out now and keep on defending!

Or, maybe you’ll grow up and finally admit that Sage knew what he was talking about a LONG time ago—that our bumbling Donny was an incompetent buffoon and completely in over his head “leading” a professional team…

Recognizing the ‘problem’ goes a long way in finally getting on the correct path of truth, honesty, and accountability…Your days of spin, deception, and outright ignorance are almost over…

Stop with the pathetic and pitiful SHEEP-LIKE excuses and get Donny out of here before he does more harm!!!!!!

By The Other Bob

February 22, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this

Again with the “sheep” references….man, I think there really is more to this than meets the eye.

Really fascinated with sheep, aren’t we?

makes one wonder….

By Midfield

February 22, 2008 9:18 PM | Link to this

Amen, John. I’ve been trying to get this across, but I’ve had a hard time completing my sentenses due to a short attention span. You nailed it. It’s mostly about mental focus and locker room control. This Hossa soap opera is all bull sh*t to entertain our femail members and, perhaps, some cross-dressers… And by that I mean, hockey uniform first and foremost.

By Brendan

February 22, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this

Look who is in the “On the Fly” panel tonight? Darren Eliot (DE). Eliot says, “Mats Sundin IMMEDIATELY makes any team better. He’s not a lockerroom distraction. What a ‘piece’ for any club to build around.”

Darren … Darren!! The man is 37, not 27!!! Mats Sunding is not your “starting point” for a franchise.

Darren Eliot just said that DW is at a junior game in Guelph. And that he is not CALLING other GM’s, rather than waiting for them to call him. “Waddell has met with Hossa,” said Eliot, “who has declared he will be a UFA this Summer.” The On the Fly Summary Screen says, “Hossa will be a Free Agent this Summer.” Eliot said, “Marian Hossa will be a great player on both sides of the puck. Don’t let the -14 fool you. He’s the same player you know him as. The minus reflects the poor GA the Thrashers have.”

Eliot has mentioned Holik as another FA, along with Hedberg, as assets Waddell might move by Tuesday.

(“On the Fly” Analast) Gary Green (GG): “Can Atlanta really afford to be sellers? They are NOT the Toronto Maple Leafs, in the midst of a full on rebuilding. Don’t the ATL fans expect the Thrashers to be better than this, Darren?”

DE: “Atlanta thought its team would be better than it is right now. In terms of Hossa, Atlanta is a both a ‘buyer’ and a ‘seller.’ This is the new NHL. Don Waddell is now in a ‘forced sell’ situation with Hossa.”

GG: “Isn’t it true that Waddell cannot accept picks and prospects for Hossa. He’s got to get players? Guys who can help right now?”

But I missed Darren Eliot’s answer. Did anyone ELSE catch this “exchange” from “On the Fly?”

By Brendan

February 22, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this

Okay, I made a zillion typos, the most glaring of which should be corrected to “Don Waddell is NOW (instead of “not”) calling other GM’s, rather than waiting for them to call him.) Analyst is spelled like that exactly like I just typed it. And Toronto’s Center with the no trade clause is Mats Sundin, not Sunding.

Gary Green (GG) talked about how Mats Sundin will be villified by the Toronto media for not waiving his NTC to help the Leafs get better. So, no matter what he does, he’ll be criticized. Criticized for leaving or criticized for staying.

GG also told DE, “I just don’t see how teams who already have what they need for the playoffs are going to part with those assets to add Hossa.”

By Alan

February 22, 2008 11:23 PM | Link to this

But I think you guys need to start with a new coach, a new attitude, and stop trying to simply “outscore” your division oponents.

Nicely put. And so very true.

By LAC

February 23, 2008 12:17 AM | Link to this

Sage, I have ALWAYS agreed with your prospective on DUMB waddell…

He is the WORST enemy this team has, I don’t trust him to do anything correct.

He needs to be fired asap, like 5 years ago, Just think if we had a forward thinking GM who knows NHL hockey and an OWNER who backs GOOD player moves… Who knows we could be a top team in the east.

But as long as waddell is around to ruin the entire team we will never be anything but point fodder like last night for teams with REAL GM’s and a REAL OWNER !

Sage you’re right, we will NEVER be a championship team until a new owner arrives to save the team !

By Brendan

February 23, 2008 12:20 AM | Link to this

Okayyy, I owe Darren Eliot an apology. What Darren meant to say was that Mats Sundin was an excellent “chip” to cash-in on a rebuilding project. I had originally interpreted Eliot’s comments to mean, “Leafs should build around Sundin.” It was GG who said, “Why not keep Sundin and center the rebuilding around him?” Darren Eliot never got the chance to respond to that, but he was chomping at the bit to do so, it appeared. But he was cut off by the other analyst.

Tonight, Niko Kapanen had the chance to win a long-round shootout for the Coyotes vs. the Avalanche. But he missed. I know. You’re shocked. The Avalanche won in the 11th or 12th round. Phoenix scored with about 2 seconds left in regulation to force overtime. Phoenix has really come on since acquiring Bryzgalov. Though, it was Tellqvist in goal, tonight, for Phoenix.

By Rawhide

February 23, 2008 12:33 AM | Link to this

Here is what Christy was refereing to.

John - I’ll echo what TonyH said…nice to have fans of other teams visit who can bring to the table some ceribraly-based discussion. Well done. Funny how two centers on the Bruins used to be here…and what we would give to have either of ‘em back in a Thrasher jersey.

Brendan - Mats Sundin would make a team better…he would make US better if we had him…however I would be very weary of his age as well. For us, having Sundin at center would be a big help…if the team were wanting a rental there.

I wouldn’t mind entertaining the thought of it…but this name Braydon Coburn keeps popping into my head….we didn’t cast him off for a rental, but it was one of those “help for the now” deals that looks less and less good the further into the “future” we go…

By Brendan

February 23, 2008 12:55 AM | Link to this

Christy, I hear Bernie Mullin on 680TheFan this morning talking about the Atlanta Spirit Group. Bernie said, “The Atlanta Spirit Group has plenty of money. It just doesn’t want to spend ‘silly money,’ chasing free agents that aren’t going to help the team in the longrun.”

Wow. And yet, Christy, they don’t think to lock up pending RFA’s Kari Lehtonen and Brett Sterling and Mark Popovic, on the cheap, while those things are still readily available to be done. Like, NOW! Instead, they’ll wait for the Summer. When the price has gone up.

Tell me, again, Bernie Mullin, what’s this about ‘silly money’ not wanting to be spent by the Spirit Group? They’ve pi$$ed away more money on crap players than anybody. Still, I have to admit, it was “nice” to hear Bernie on the radio again. And “un-gaged,” now that he’s NOT an ASG employee. He talked openly about the prospect of acquiring Allen Iverson for the Hawks. And how he helped put the Kaibosh on that one, citing that AI was the “wrong element” for the young, re-building team.

By HookyBob

February 23, 2008 7:43 AM | Link to this

Rawhide Allen Muir on SI has an article about about bad trade deadline deals. Its a good read.

The Colburn for Zhitnick deal makes the top 3

Go Blue,…beat the Leafs.

By John

February 23, 2008 7:44 AM | Link to this

Rawhide, thanks again for the welcome. Reading the dialogue here, I’m blown away by the passion and interest in the Thrashers. But honestly, you’re almost talking me out of wanting to deal FOR Hossa.And I’m more convinced than ever that if you guys can get a package of prospects and Top Picks, it would be a Blessing for the Thrashers. You guys need to SUPPORT Waddell IF he has the guts to TAKE a package that will stockpile your future. My bet is Waddell MUST be politically correct: he MUST sell tickets and appease a fan base by bringing in a “name” or big names. What total stupidity it would be to bring in 37-year old Mats Sundin. First of all, he is NOT better than Hossa…and secondly, whats the future for a 37-year old??? Also, re: a previous comment. You do NOT need great ownership. You just need an owner who will hire a great GM, then get out the way and just count the money. With the Salary Cap—EVERYONE spend the same money. Its HOW the money is spent. THATS where a great Hockey GM makes all the difference. And, by far, his biggest hire is the Coach. Take care of the GM issue and everything will fall into place. NO ONE will argue the Thrashers are SPENDING enought to win the Cup.

By Tony H

February 23, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this

John I tend to agree with your comments regarding sage ownership IF they have a quality GM and let him do his job. Let him bring in a quality coach and go from there. Unfortunately, I don’t think the ASG knows a great deal about hockey and depends entirely on DW to provide insight on what to do. Don’s five year plan went down the toilet a long time ago.

By Rawhide

February 23, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this

HookyBob - I fixed your link…very nice. You never want to be on the wrong end of a write-up like that…and we were.

To be fair, Don made that deal a year a go because he HAD to…and let’s be honest, Zhitty did a great job at that time helping us into the playoffs and we were singing his praises. It’s just now…well, we’ve beaten this dead horse.

John - Again you’re welcome…we get some real slugs in here from time to time…so it’s nice to have a fan from elsewhere who can give some input to the team and the game.

As for Mats Sundin…I would never suggest trading someone like Hossa for him…your points are spot-on. But what I’m saying is that if he, and those numbers where here right now, it would be a help…even as a rental.

Do I for a second think he would waive his NTC for it? No.

By five_hole

February 23, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this

Rawhide I really hate it when you use Zhitnik and dead horse in the same paragraph. It’s just too easy …

Tonight is the mendoza line for us (baseball expression; I know). If we lose tonight, there is no catching up to either Washington or Carolina. It’s as simple as that. If we lose tonight, we’re effectively eliminated.

By Christy

February 23, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

Brendan,

I don’t know if what Bernie had to say makes me want to cry or laugh - it’s depressing either way I guess.

I haven’t written of the Thrasher’s season, and I have tickets to a few games, including the last home game, but I think most of my “hope” is now vested in the spring and the Braves. Hard to stay positive on the Thrashers when they have games where they seem to care less than the fan watching them.

By Brendan

February 23, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this

Keep the faith, Christy. I am “hopeful” either way. Wait. Hear me out. If the Thrashers tank, BADLY, they’ll have a shot at procuring a lottery draft pick. If that happens, and Atlanta wound up with either Stampkos or Doughty, I’d say … we were a bit “blessed.”

If the team gets a good return for Hossa, whether that’s picks and prospects, or players to help right now, then that’d be good, too. And if it’s players for RIGHT NOW, and it works out, then we’ll potentially have playoffs.

You know what they say. Some playoffs are better than none. However, I’m reminded that there’s a VERY EXPENSIVE division title banner hanging from the rafters of Philips Arena.

I reject this notion that if we miss the playoffs, that the fans will TURN and REVOLT. That would only be true … if a series a stupid decisions are made between now and Tuesday. Like, we bring in Sundin for two 1st round draft picks, plus a third rounder, etc. He’s 37!! It’s “Tkachuk” all over again.

Even iffff … we BLEW IT UP and held a “firesale,” … if the returns were good … then I think most Thrashers fans would say, “Okay. Now fire Waddell. Rebuild correctly with a capable GM, and the capable GM will hire a decent coach. We’ll be younger, faster, more skilled, and back on track.” Three years before Tampa and Carolina won their Cups, they finished DEAD LAST in the league.

We must take the highs with the lows.

Does that sound like we fans jumped off the cliff??? Heck no. These patient Thrashers fans recognize that a change was needed and support the decision to make those changes.

By Christy

February 23, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

I don’t disagree at all Brendan. I’m okay with their blowing it up and rebuilding around Kovy and Enstrom if that’s what it takes and we end up with the picks and $$ to do it right. Each season is a promise, and losing out one season does not make me turn away from the team. I was raised a Braves fan in through the 70’s and 80s…. If anyone can appreciate that hard times can lead to good times followed by horrible nightmare eras and these lead to the best ever it’s anyeone who survived those decades as a Braves fan. : )

Actually, now that I think about it, Atlanta is the perfect season for the Thrashers. A fan base that is completely used to this cycle…

By puckjunque

February 23, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this

We need Amens and a whole lot more…..

Bow your heads, hands joined on the keyboards

Oh Heavenly Father, Thank you for listening to our prayers. We are grateful for the healing and blessings you have bestowed upon this team. The Thrashers need your guidance tonight to be in position and doing their jobs to 100%of their ability, 100% of the time, for 100% of the game. Dear God Almighty, please lead the Thrashers tonight to show pride in themselves and this team; to hold their heads up high and FIGHT! FIGHT like it means more to them than anything in the world, No more excuses, No more distractions, No holding back, No more bulls#&t, just kick the leafs a$$, AMEN!!!!!

Go Thrashers!!!

By Rawhide

February 23, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this

A-FREAKIN’-MEN!!!!! Well put, PJ!!

Now, let’s go TROMP all over TORONTO!!

here is a good read from Ross McKeon of yahoo sports. I think his observation that DW is having a tough time with being the GM/Head Coach right now is spot-on.

By HookyBob

February 23, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this

Rawhide: Thanks for the “fix”. recall early in the season a blog question was Who was the best trade deadline pickup? (for last season,Feb 07). Overwhelmingly,..repeat overwhelmingly,..it was Zhit! Where is the 07 Zhit!

I like this Thrashers team. I like them a lot. That makes it all the more difficult to swallow these apparently feeble efforts. This year’s team (2nd half season) is setting too many low points, Buffalo game,… biggest goal differential, Islanders game,… biggest shot differential.

An earlier blogger, maybe John, mentioned building a team from the goal out. I ascribe to that approach. We’ve got the goalie,.. but we give up 33 shots/game. Detroit is best at 24. Median is about 29. Convert that to goals /game Detroit is 2.1 we are 3.3+/-,… almost identical to the shot difference. If we gave up 29 shots / game (assuming same save %)we’d have a positive goal differential (and who knows how many more points).

Bulding out,..the next piece we need is defence, be it a new D-man (men) or different system. And now you know where my deadline acquistion hopes lie.

Go Blue, beat the Leafs. Make me believe in Blueland again.

Make me believe in Blueland.

By The Other Bob

February 23, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

Amen, PJ!! Boy do we need a win tonight!

Either way, we’ll be OK….the Thrashers make the playoffs and all is well, or we don’t an Waddell gets canned. I’m not a DW hater, but if he isn’t around, then people like Sage will go too…because outside of “DW sux…and you’re all sheep”….the guy’s got nothing.

By John

February 23, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this

Hooky, Yes that was me who talked about building a team from the Goalie out. I think if you want to overpay you do so for a Goalie and elite, shut down Defensemen. Even the best offenses get “cold”—Defenses don’t go through extended “cold streaks”…game to game adjustments can quickly fix any problems Defensively. Also, if you build a team on Defense—you will very rarely blow leads. Many teams, especially I believe in the Southern US, are reluctant to build teams around Defense because they fear fans won’t pay to watcxh 2-1 games. They want offensive action, It sells tickets. You know, it struck me when I went to Phillips and the first thing I saw was a big sign explaining the rules of Hockey. “John, you’re no longer in an Original 6 city!”. I wonder if the Thrashers truly are torn between trying to sell a fast paced Offensive product to Football and Basketball fans—-versus building a team that wins an optimum number of games?? Do you guys see a potential conflict?? Would Atlanta Braves fans ever watch 1-0 Thrasher games? I watch the Lightning, the Thrashers, and the Panthers and I see a more open, more exciting game. But I also see more losses. JMHO

By Thrasher Ryan

February 23, 2008 8:02 PM | Link to this

It’s 1-0 Thrashers after 1. Recchi with the lone tally.

THANK YOU for SCRATCHING Zhitnik, Waddell! Now if you’ll only get rid of Klee and him, i’m a very satisfied Thrasher fan!

GO BLUE!!!

By Thrasher Ryan

February 23, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this

And a late AMEN, PJ!

It’s 1-1 after 2. KL looks fine. Thrasher offense must show up. We need some GOALS bad! End the damn drought!

As for Sundin, I don’t want him here at all. The only way I could even imagine him coming here is if he comes to replace Bobby Holik if Waddell moves him.

Waddell just has to wait on the best offer, that’s all. Hopefully he pulls some other “major” deals too!

GO BLUE!!!

By Alan

February 23, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this

Next blog title:

No Excuses For This Loss, Either

By Thrasher Ryan

February 23, 2008 10:11 PM | Link to this

GAME OVER. Thrashers lose 3-1 to the Toronto Maple Leafs! The only thing worse than that right now would be a loss to the LA Kings! How pitiful. See you later Hossa.

LET THE FIRESALE BEGIN!

By erock

February 23, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this

We need to TRADE NOW every UFA we have so they will not leave for nothing and get BIG YOUNG PLAYERS AND PROSPECTS AND DRAFT PICKS…Hell might as well tank it the rest of this year so we can get the # 1 pick this year !! We are just barely ahead of TAMPA now for last place in the conference…..SELL SELL SELL

By stendec

February 23, 2008 11:39 PM | Link to this

FALCONS ON ICE! Most vile of ALL insults. Forget Marian Hossa! Trade ALL the F+++++G heartless quitters. Including Ilya Kovalchuk who has disappeared after his injury. Ala Steve Bartkowski, God bless him. Players have called it quits. Fans should, too. Hey KL apologists, keep on telling me how many fantastic stops Letemin makes. Two more marshmallow tallies tonight! What was final? Lost interest. Oh, 3-1. Hmmm! Defend the talentless cur all you wish! Ship them ALL to Chicago for kids. Want to see some hustle, fight, fire, pride, desire and professionalism down the stretch. Will not get any from these MF CS CD SOBs! Want to see all new faces next season. GO FLAMES!

By stendec's doctor

February 23, 2008 11:53 PM | Link to this

stendec - You forgot to take your anti-depression medicine again.

By Brendan

February 23, 2008 11:56 PM | Link to this

RAWHIDE, I’m begging you to post something for me. Please?? Pretty please?? It’s for the Atlanta Spirit Group to read. Ready?

If you’re going to fire Don Waddell, do it right. Don’t let him “linger.” I should clarify.

The New York Islanders let GM Mike Milbury mismange their team from 1995-2006. Milbury managed to watch Isles draft picks Wade Redden, J.P. Dumont, Dan LaCouture, Zdeno Chara, Roberto Luongo, Eric Brewer, Mike Rupp, Taylor Pyatt, Tim Connolly, Raffi Torres, Cory Stillman, and Ryan O’Marra … meander out of town. By the time the Isles figured out Milbury was the problem, they failed to win a playoff series for 10-years running. Point of fact, the Isles haven’t won a playoff series since 1993, when they were in the Conference Finals. Since then, they’ve made the playoffs five times in the past 13 seasons, including four of the past five. But that’s not the point. The point, RAWHIDE, is this. Even after they fired Mike Milbury, replacing him with Neil Smith—for 41 days, then going with backup goaltender Garth Snow, owner Charles Wang kept Milbury around, as a “senior advisor.” And in Wang’s “rule by committee” approach, Milbury still has a limited ‘say so’ and ‘informal power’ within the walls of the organization.

So??? What does this have to do with us??? I’m glad you asked. Don Waddell isn’t just the “Coach” and “General Manager,” he is also on the board of Governors, casting votes on behalf of the team, on issues like “distinct kicking motion” rule changes. He is also the “Executive Vice President of Hockey Operations.” In short, Don Waddell is a Hockey Czar in this town. He’s been here … since DAY ONE. And truthfully, I don’t think this organization has clue #1 what to do … without him.

So???

So, they’re bound to retain him, in some way, ever after they “fire” him. And that’s a mistake. If you’re going to MAKE A CHANGE, a SUBSTANTIVE CHANGE, you’ve got to “clean house.” That includes, Scout Dan Marr. Eat Waddell’s salary for 2009. Get past the idea that you’re “paying him to twiddle his thumbs” for a WHOLE YEAR. If/When you fire him, make sure he cleans out his desk … ENTIRELY. So he knows … he’s not coming back. His reign is over. It’s a “new day.” With a “new GM.” And whatever Waddell policies that were in effect, and hereby and effectively “cancelled.” Further instructions will be supplied by the NEW GM. So on, and so forth.

Do you catch my meaning? Of course, I’ll believe that Don Waddell is really gone when he accepts a position with another club.

By Rawhide

February 24, 2008 12:08 AM | Link to this

Brendan - I think you just posted it….it’s right there for everyone to read.

You know what’s funny though…I was thinking the almost same thing. If the Thrashers don’t make the playoffs…he’s gone. But he is going to be making some decision in the next 65 hours or so that will alter the course of the team in one way or the other.

Truth be told, however…I fully expect the ASG will keep him on board ‘till the end of the season no matter what.

Besides, (planting tongue firmly in cheek), if they fire him now,…then who’s going to coach the team, general manage the team, EVP the team???

Anyway, I’ve already written my next blog and will be posting it shortly.

By Brendan

February 24, 2008 12:22 AM | Link to this

Thank you, Rawhide. I needed to “vent” that.