Ice Man

By R. Stroz

February 24, 2008 12:21 AM | Link to this

FIRE WADDELL

By stendec

February 24, 2008 12:32 AM | Link to this

Good morning Rawhide. FALCONS ON ICE! Most vile of ALL insults. Forget Marian Hossa soap opera! Trade ALL the heartless quitters. Including Ilya Kovalchuk who has disappeared after his injury. Has anyone else noticed? Ala Steve Bartkowski, God bless him. Thrasher players have called it quits. Fans should, too. Hey KL apologists, keep on telling me how many fantastic acrobatic stops Letemin makes. Two more marshmallow tallies tonight! What was final? Lost interest. Oh, 3-1. Hmmm! Defend the talentless LaLa Land lurker all you wish! Ship them ALL to Chicago for kids. Want to see some hustle, grit, fight, dignity, fire, pride, hustle, desire and professionalism down the stretch. Will not get any from these ball-less bozos! Want to see all new faces in Blueland next season. GO FLAMES!

By R. Stroz

February 24, 2008 12:32 AM | Link to this

Why haven’t we heard DW say anything about incremental progess this year?

Why hasn’t DW guaranteed a playoff berth?

Why do the Thrashers look like an expansion team?

By Brendan

February 24, 2008 12:39 AM | Link to this

Recording Artist Tom Petty said, “The waiting is the hardest part.” If we’re going to trade Hossa for picks and prospects, I hope we pick a bubble team out West, like Phoenix or Colorado or even Calgary. This way, if they don’t make it, we stand to have half-way decent draft positioning!

And since we blew these games, and the chance to be 32-27-4, instead of 29-30-4, it may not be the time to start winning. We had three months since Thanksgiving to get 10 games or so over .500. Did I miss it?

We didn’t do it. We blew it. At this point, every win and every point hurts our draft lottery aspirations. Just think, if we move Hossa to a Western Conference bubble team that fails, we could have two picks in the Top 14. And if by some miracle, we got the 1st or 2nd overall pick, either Stampkos or Doughty would be ours!!!

Sweeeet.

By stendec

February 24, 2008 12:42 AM | Link to this

I actually believed the division champion (for a short while longer) Thrashers would return to the playoffs. Of course, I thought the (then) Baltimore Colts would pound the New York Jets in Super Bowl 3 (III). Hate those Roman numerals. WRONG! WRONG! WRONG! Live and learn.

By stendec's doctor

February 24, 2008 12:42 AM | Link to this

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

By R. Stroz

February 24, 2008 12:52 AM | Link to this

When The Atlanta Spirit Group named themselves, did they intend on haunting their franchises?

These idiots have two teams (Thrashers & Hawks) with coaches that need to be fired, two teams below .500 , and they want to raise ticket prices for both franchises?

ASG put down the bong, you are already wasted.

By Jethro

February 24, 2008 12:59 AM | Link to this

I have uh plan to help them ASG boys sell ticketz fur next seesun.

They should sell tickets for a dollar to one of tha remainin games this seesun.

Next, they should sell beer for a dollar at the same game.

Then, they can get the wasted fans credit card numberz and charge um fur seesun tickets.

Never mind anuther company tried that in Atlanta and got in trouble, the Gold Club.

By R. Stroz

February 24, 2008 1:45 AM | Link to this

In order to having meaningful change, the ownership MUST do one of two things 1) understand that the fans are tired of the cheap sales and marketing pitches or 2) sell the team to someone who has adequate capital to properly staff the team.

1) The fans understand that the ASG are just shooting for a mediocre team, not a good team, not a great team, just a mediocre team.

2) Many fans are sick of the ASG pulling the wool over their eyes concerning ticket pricing. Many fans will not renew their ticket packages at full price because they know that they can buy the tickets later at half price from the ASG directly.

3) The fans know a new no-name GM replacement will result in the same mediocre end product, a .500 team.

4) In order for the ASG to sell tickets close to current face value, the ASG will have to bring in a real GM, remove the artificial team cap, hire a real coach, and bring in quality players.

5) Folks, the problem is not selling hockey in the South, the problem is getting properly capitalized owners who can afford to own and properly staff a hockey team in the South. Tom Cousins had to sell the Flames when the real estate market crumbled under high interest rates in the late 70’s and early 80’s. The ASG has shown they can’t afford to properly staff the Thrashers by imposing an artificial salary cap. Until the Thrashers and Hawks have owners that can afford to own and staff teams, the fans of Atlanta will be forced to endure mediocrity or nothing at all.

The problem isn’t the fans, the problem isn’t hockey in the South, the problem is the owner’s inadequate capitalization.

By Thrashy Thrashy

February 24, 2008 2:47 AM | Link to this

Sori Letemin wasn’t the problem tonight. The whole team is the f*** problem. They’ve been mediocre to less-than-mediocre to God-awful all year. They don’t defend anyone, and they multiply that particular failing by not attacking the net on offense. Waddell will be fired at the end of this season. There is no one else to fire, so at least we have that good news to wait for. I just hope he gets something good out of a few deals (Hossa, Holik, Recchi…at least those three) before he’s run out of town.

(And isn’t that last part the real shame here? We’re relying on Waddell to acquire in trade the kinds of players that he can’t produce through the draft or sign through free agency. God help us.)

By Old school Al

February 24, 2008 6:49 AM | Link to this

Whatever happened to the days of the owner / ownership holding the team President accountible for a team; the President held the VP accountible; the VP held the GM accountible, the GM held the coach accountible; and the coach held the team accountible?

With the Trashers, nobody knows (or really cares) who the owners are; and the President / GM / and coach IS THE SAME GUY, who by the way put together this mess of a team!

FIRE WADDELL!!!!!

By Alan

February 24, 2008 7:35 AM | Link to this

Al - Then perhaps the President/VP/GM/Coach is held responsible?

By Waffleboy

February 24, 2008 7:36 AM | Link to this

R. Stroz- You hit the nail right on the head, sir. The problem we heave here is that you can’t fire owners. We’re stuck with them. I fear that this losing season, along with the loss of a Don Waddell will lead ultimately to the loss of the Thrashers in Atlanta. The owners don’t know how to operate a hockey team and they can’t figure out how to make money doing it. My guess is, they wrap up the court case soon and then sell to an owner who will take them north.

By Alan

February 24, 2008 7:50 AM | Link to this

I fear that this losing season, along with the loss of a Don Waddell will lead ultimately to the loss of the Thrashers in Atlanta.

Look at other markets that have or had losing teams. Florida. Phoenix. Toronto. Philadelphia. Los Angeles. Those teams aren’t in danger of moving or being moved. Why, pray tell, would you fear Atlanta would be moved? It’s a ridiculous statement to make, especially since:

a. The lawsuit between our dysfunctional owners isn’t even settled yet. b. The owners we do have would only sell to local interests. They also own the Hawks (another consistent losing team (so when are they moving, eh?)) and the arena both the Hawks and Thrashers play in.

These “fears” are unfounded. Let’s think logically here for a while instead of going nuts with fear and anguish. A little more logical thinking could us all some good.

By Lew318

February 24, 2008 8:32 AM | Link to this

Rawhide: Good opening commentary!!

I have not been a supporter of the way Hossa has handled his Free Agnecy. However after listening th the TV commentators explain Free Agency and watching the Thrashers unable to complete passes with any consistency (did you notice how many opasses were behind the skater rather than leading him), unable to demonstrate any ability to develop a scoring opportunity, I can’t blame the athlete for what he is doing or the way he is doing it.

I thought the post game TV analysis was right on; (and I am paraphrasing)This team hasn’t done it (offensive Threat)what makes them think they can start now?

So, unless there is a “3rd coming”, our Atlanta Hockey team is out of it for 2008. I do hope I am wrong, but from my season ticket seat, I don’t think so.

So what do we do? - Scream for Waddell’s resignation? - Fire the Assistant coaches? - Look to next year starting now?

I’m for the latter; I am losing patience. There is no doubt that Waddell is gone. The only question I have is this this. Do the owners know enough about hockey to hire another GM? I may get castrated in writing for saying this, but I think Waddell is a better GM than Coach. Some of his picks have been great and some have not; that goes for any GM. What we don’t know is the direction he is receiving from his Board.

This team has no character (unlike Carolina with their Capatain out)and who do you blame that on; the GM, Coach or the players? They also do not have an offensive system that works! bring back Hartley, your paying him through next year :-)

In any event, we are starting over and the sooner the better as far as I am concerned. It is a lost season!! Yes, I am writing them off!!

For the Thrashers to win, other teams will have to fall apart and the Thrashers will have to do something they have been unable to do all season; win consistently!!

See you all on the 28th

By David

February 24, 2008 8:34 AM | Link to this

Goodbye Don Waddell. GM, coach….goodbye.

The Atlanta Spirit Group is a joke.

By erock

February 24, 2008 8:38 AM | 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 LAC

February 24, 2008 8:49 AM | Link to this

Alan, you and bob(other one) must be smoking something… We are not much better than the expansion team we were how many years ago now ?????

No defense, little offense, and WHO is to blame ?

What is the title V.P./GM well the Buck Stops there.

This CLOWN waddell has built this team into a mess, he and he alone. The man has ZERO hockey knowledge, NO eye for talent and I really question is he even wants to be a winner here.

He is a LOSER plain and simple.

Then these LITTLE BOY LYING OWNERS.

What else can you say they are STUPID AS HELL, They have NO GUTS and are not one bit honest with the fans.

I still want to punch that LIAR rutherford snydel or is it STUPIDydel in the mouth for his out and out LIE opening night telling us all they are doing everything possible to bring the Stanley Cup here, what a LIE that worthless lying gutless punk.

Where are you snydel ? Hiding ? Too afraid to face the fans and admit YOU LIE.

Sage you are correct, with these losers in charge we are NEVER going to be a championship team or a true contender for the CUP…

Hockey will now start a rather rapid decent in Atlanta, maybe these Diaper Owners will realize it when 7,500 start showing up.

You won’t see me there anytime soon, not with this CRAP GM and team !

Damn Shame too, We should be MUCH better than we are and waddell has had too long a run in ATLANTA…. Go back to detroit with snot waddell and maybe lick some up and improve your brain cell count !

By five_hole

February 24, 2008 8:53 AM | Link to this

I have to wonder if (at least part of) the reason we went without a coach this year is the fact that we’re still paying Hartley’s salary. Consider how cheap the ASG is.

Rawhide made a great point regarding Carolina showing heart even after losing their lynchpin, BryndAmour (PJ, a quick prayer that no Carolina lurker is reading this, if you please). Why? What do they have that we don’t? Or, what about Montreal, having the faith in their game to come back from a 5 goal deficit? Why is it that some teams have the brass kahones to stare losing in the face and give defeat a face-wash? I submit that it comes from the Coach, and from leaders on the team (the Captain and his alternates; that’s why you pick them).

I want players who, if they lose, trash the locker room. I want goalies who smash their sticks if they give up a goal. I want a coach who knows how to put that kind of fire in the bellies of men. I want … . Winston Churchill?!?!? At least, I want the personification of him.

I can’t honestly blame Hossa for wanting to leave at this point. If you can control your own destiny, would you want to play for a bunch of losers?

Can we write a petition to the ASG, demanding that they clean house?

By Bob Hartley

February 24, 2008 9:00 AM | Link to this

Suckers.

By Thrashernut

February 24, 2008 9:03 AM | Link to this

I’ll drop a bomb -trade Kovalchuk, not Hossa - sorry to say that the league’s figured out how to neutralize him. Hossa is a far better, comprehensive, team-oriented player.

By B. Thenet

February 24, 2008 9:03 AM | Link to this

Let’s not let the team off the hook too much. Yes the owners and DW have played their part in the ongoing mediocrity of the Atlanta Thrashers….

However it is the “players” that wear the uniform who have basically crapped their way out of the playoffs. Of course we have seen this manic depressive play all season long, and for most of last year, and coaching(or lack there of) has a part to play. But so do the players who on a far too regular basis go through the motions on the ice.

Either way, I hope DW has the stones to throw in the towel. I would rather win or lose with our future down the stretch than hold on to older veteran players who are seemingly incapable of leadership. Let them become cancers on other NHL teams.

By Alan

February 24, 2008 9:08 AM | Link to this

LAC - Hangover? Or just blind? You’re not making any sense, and all I see is you ranting and raving and frothing at the mouth like a rabies infected animal, going on and on about Waddell. Newsflash: I didn’t mention Waddell at all! That’s right! But you seem hell bent on wishing this team would leave the area anyway.

By five_hole

February 24, 2008 9:21 AM | Link to this

Oops. I meant Winston Patten not Winston Churchill. Sucks when you hit the enter key and realize your mistake.

On the good side, I’m thinking that we’re freeing up over $13.5 mil in salary, between Hossa, Holik and Rucchin. What I would really love to see Atlanta get, more than bringing back Hossa, is a premier puck moving D man that can play the point on the power play. I’m thinking we should either target Campbell or Boyle in free agency. (Think how much it would p** off the TB folks if we signed Dan Boyle?)

By HookyBob

February 24, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this

Lew Bring back Hartley.
I’m not sure how serious you are,..but it is food for thought.

That very thought crossed my mind as I witnessed this team play without an apparent system. Is this a symptom of the lack of true-fulltime coach?

Is it possible to bring Hartley back?

What are the trade-offs?

If not Hartley,..should we hire a fulltime coach now?…., Or, have we reached the point where it truly is best left until after the season is behind us?

For the record,..I’d like to see someone who has come through the Montreal system get on board here. Dallas, Minnesota, (New Jersey before that) and maybe some other franchises (was Roggie Vachon LA’s GM in 93)seem to do well with former snowfarmers (thanks Bob) in mgmt.

Believe in Blueland. ASG,..give us a reason to believe.

By ThrashDawg

February 24, 2008 9:36 AM | Link to this

b.thenet Right on brother! Everyone seems to want to blame the coach, the GM, the ownership but you have to wonder about a group of players that quit on their coach and got him fired, righted the ship to a level of respectability but cannot get over the hump. We have well thought of veterans on this team, Holik, Hossa and Hedberg that cannot get it done. I like Hossa but it seems to me like it is hard to lead a team when you are more concerned about who you want to play for next season and don’t think the other players in the locker room don’t know what is going on.

By chrisf

February 24, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this

You are all mostly on the right track:

(a) ASG has their head up their a#$, but focusing your anger here is counter productive if your goal is to have them clean house. We do, however, need to find a way to hurt them in the pocketbook without denying ourselves access to NHL hockey. Boycott Phillips concessions during games?

(b) Principal Skinner (aka DW) must be removed in order to turn this franchise around. His unwillingness to replace Hartley with a qualified replacement is reason enough for his dismissal (I know, there are about 1,500 other reasons to do so, but we have to put something on his pink slip).

His inability to define a team philosophy/personality and draft/develop to that profile lies at the heart of the team’s inconsistency. We’ve had players in here capable of fitting in to such a system, but never a defined system. Kudos to Darren Eliot for finally raising this issue on non-Thrasher outlets XM Radio and the NHL Network.

(c)The least that Principal Skinner could do on his way out is to get future value (picks and prospects) as he trades Bart Simpson (Hoss, but only based on looks) and the other UFAs. Although I’m not sure if Pavelec is ready enough to let the Moose go (22-9-0 2.73 GAA .911 SV% @ Chicago - Not bad, but also not among the top 20 AHL netminders).

Let’s hope that at least some of our wishes are granted before the NHL Entry Draft, so that we can finally start drafting and dealing with a new, defined direction in mind.

By Jim

February 24, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this

Hossa told the Leafs TV announcer that he wants to head to a team with a “winning situation”. He recognizes that DW has not produced that and we are clearly headed in the wrong direction. DW told us we’d see the “Youth Movement” this year, Instead, we see the “Useless Movement” with a reliance on the over the hill retreads. Defense (except Ens and Pop) are terrible, forward way too small and timid. Responsibility lies at the top. Time to move on DW.

By RS

February 24, 2008 10:04 AM | Link to this

I wish they WOULD trade Kovalchuk, so I’d never have to watch another game by this listless bunch of losers again.

By Fan

February 24, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this

I agree with the sentiment that Kovalchuk has been figured out. He is not the play maker that Hossa is. I think the players lack something very basic, a desire to WIN. They need a big kick in the butt. It appears DW’s nature is midwestern reserve. Somebody needs to step up and stop being the friend, but rather the coach. I echo Rawhide. As a season ticket holder, I am losing whatever patience I had left very quickly.

By R. Stroz

February 24, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this

Hossa told the Leafs TV announcer that he wants to head to a team with a “winning situation”. He recognizes that DW has not produced that and we are clearly headed in the wrong direction.

Well Done Jim.

Hossa’s father is/was a coach.

Hossa knows what it takes to win and is telling everyone in Atlanta that our current owner/GM/coach lack the Right Stuff or the Right Vision.

The real question is whether firing DW will fix the problem or do the Thrashers need new owners as well.

With that said, I’m in favor of firing DW. Teams such as Nashville and Phoenix, with low player payrolls’ than the Thrashers, are putting up better numbers than the Thrashers.

DW has had his chance and his results are mediocre at best. It’s time to give someone else a try and see if they can produce better results with limited resources.

On another subject, has anyone else noticed the cut backs this year in giveaway nights? No player statues, no player posters,…

The team is dumping tickets at half price to increase revenue and has cut back on the fan treats. Are these signs that the ASG is in financial trouble?

By Tom

February 24, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this

The best thing to happen this morning is that Don Waddell has a come to Jesus meeting with himself.

If he wakes up thinking of ways to save his job the long term malaise that the Thrashers are in will continue. His personal interests are not in sync with those of the team.

If, however, he recognizes that his days in Atlanta are limited he may actually do the right thing.

The right thing would be to make a couple of big moves beyond trading Hossa and get the youth that is languishing in Chicago up to the NHL.

Sure he will lose this job, but future employers will see him as doing the right thing for the team and it’s future and be more willing to place a bet on him.

If he tries at this stage to make the playoffs and keep his job I doubt he will ever be a GM in this league again.

By J(Z)

February 24, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this

Rawhide called out by Barry Melrose Rocks Blog

Hope I linked that right. I usually enjoy reading his blog, but to hear him calling out rawhide like this and the lack of respect for the ATL…do with it what you want…

By jcwhitingjr

February 24, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this

Two words: FIRE SALE.

By Jason

February 24, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this

Great idea for a trade for these two struggling clubs that would help both out GREATLY!!

Hossa and Boulton for Carter and Cote. With Hossa, Philly gets a solid all round player that can fill the shows of Gagne this season and with Boulton gets an enforcer who can contribute more then Cote can right now on the 4th Boulton can generate some energy as well by dropping the gloves.

Atlanta gets a chance to keep their playoff hopes alive with the addition of Jeff Carter and Atlanta is in dire need of someone who is willing to fight night in and night out to spark this team which is what Riley Cote will bring to the table.

GREAT TRADE that will never get considered sad to say…but one can dream

By kracker

February 24, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this

We’re stuck with DW thru Tuesday. Then the ASG should fire him, hire the best GM they can for top dollar and have the new GM hire a new head of scouting and make these picks this year count for somethng. Hire a coach prior to the draft if possible.

By Brendan

February 24, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this

IFFFFF the ASG actually does fire Waddell, I hope they do it right, like I mentioned on Rawhide’s previous blog. Completely remove him, don’t let Waddell linger in some “advisory” capacity. Make him clean out his desk. And, above all, write him a letter of recommendation for his next job.

Folks, until Waddell has signed on with another team, he’s not really gone. Not to my satisfaction, anyway. Folks, it’s been 10 years!! Waddell was here BEFORE DAY ONE!! Every single person who has ever been hired by the Thrashers has been blessed by Waddell. Shoot, there might be a “casual Friday” dresscode in effect. Well, every policy … every action … every “everything” needs to be CANCELLED pending approval and comment by the NEW GM.

People have to UNDERSTAND … that Waddell is really gone. It’s not his team. Not his organization. Not his “anything” anymore. It’s a “new day.” With a “new” man in charge.

Until that happens … then it hasn’t. And Don Waddell is not just the “coach” or the “GM,” or the “Executive V.P. of Hockey Operations,” and on the “Board of Governmors,” … Don Waddell is the Hockey CZAR in Atlanta.

If you FIRE him, the world has to know … the CZAR is dead. Make a clean sweep of it. That means firing Head Scout, Dan Marr, as well. Let the new GM … REALLY and TRULY take over.

I promise you, it’ll even take the BLOGGERS a while to realize they can’t just blame everything on WADDELL anymore, once he is gone. Like an accident, the memory will linger a bit. But in two seasons, most of Waddell’s hires and decisions will be erased, if there’s a new GM. Like, starting NOW.

And folks … we’re talking about the ASG here. He may not get fired. And you’ve got to be prepared for THAT possiblity, as well.

By Rawhide

February 24, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this

J(Z) - Thanks for the link….so…Barry Melrose gives a rip about something little ‘ol me says????

LOL!!!! I’m honored that he would take the time to jot down a few words about this blog site…LOL!!!!

Hey Barry….That busy man like yourself…would take time out of your schedule to concern yourself with anything I would do or say…..sniff…I’m honored…honored indeed.

By PJ

February 24, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this

Rstroz YOu are correct about the ASG reducing the number of give-away nights. They have also eliminated the “kids club” as well. The previous years focus was on drawing in families. Now I dont recall, perhaps you can refresh my memory but did we have a girlie calendar that year?? That seems to me the only major marketing addition. Hmmm I wonder how many ASG executives it takes to oversee taking twelve decent photos? Also I think they have added a Wednesday night singles promotion. Overall I get the feeling they have changed their focus group from young families to young males. Tsk, Tsk, if they did more to lure women to the games, the men would follow….

By Nikita

February 24, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this

Rawhide, who cares what mulletface thinks?

On last night’s game…not as humiliating as some other recent contests…but not good.

1. Good work by Thorburn and Boulton. The checking line was working fairly well.
2. Hostile refing environment — and the first Toronto goal was a direct consequence of a b****** boarding call on Kovalchuk.
3. Good thing Zhitnik wasn’t out there. Havelid/Klee was working relatively well.
4. Any chance Elexby will spend some time on the bench? He was just plain sloppy last night.

By Brendan

February 24, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this

The site actually says, “From a man who ISN’T actually Barry Melrose.” But this guy, “Kevin,” named his blogsite, “Barry Melrose Rocks.”

Interesting choice for a title. But he doesn’t read your column very thoroughly, either. Because he doesn’t see the distinction between the Custance blog (journalist) vs. the “Fan Blog,” which is Rawhide’s (ICE MAN, by forced definition, from AJC). It’s pretty clearly marked, “A Fan’s Perspective.”

Moving right along … we wait. We wait, to see how “well” or “how badly” what could be Don Waddell’s final moves as GM play out. We close our eyes, and hope for the best.

By B. Thenet

February 24, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this

Don’t sweat that Melrose Rocks loser. They had some dumb entry attacking Thrash for dressing up like Cupid for Valentines Day, making ignorant comments about the Thrashers attendance the other day.

You actually have to register for the blog service to comment about it, not worth the effort IMO.

By Rawhide

February 24, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this

Oh rats!!! It’s NOT Barry Melrose…it’s just some blogger or something…DRAT!!! Just someone who thinks WAY too highly of himself.

I thought I was being called out by SOMEBODY!!! This person even says the web site doesn’t indicate if I’m a fan or a journalist….I guess the whole “A FAN’S perspective” verbage went unnoticed.

Crap!

I mean, it’s one thing to be called out by someone with the cred as a Melrose…but just someone with a site. And he’s not even getting this from his own efforts….someone at, what was it…”fanhouse”…actually posted a whine about me…

whatev…….I’m just happy I could give them something to talk about.

By Rawhide Rocks

February 24, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

It’s it great that we live in a country where we can all voice opposing views freely without fear of retribution.

By sick of losers

February 24, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this

Lots of housecleaning—start with Waddell who hasn’t gotten the job done. Serves him right to be coach—handling the crap team he assembled as GM. Holik needs to go—I’m sick of hearing him say after games “we didn’t show up”—isn’t it the captain’s job to make the guys show up??Kozlov—love the guy, but he got his big contract and doesnt care anymore. Let’s get a GM that knows what he is doing and an owenership group that is committed so that we can get real players. Is anyone else tired of reading that our big free agent signings have 8 goals in 200 NHL games? There must be better players out there.

I don’t blame Hossa one bit—he understands hockey a lot better than DW and he wants to play for a real team. I think the fans know it, which is why he doesn’t get booed.This team had better turn it around fast, becuase Kovy is UFA in 2 years and he won’t be content to spend his career with a bunch of losers. Best thing to happen over the next 20 games—lose ‘em all, that way even guys as dense as Rutherford and DW will see how far away we are from being good. Levenson is a smart guy—he’ll either sell the team or invest to make it a winner. Front office better not hold its breath for my season ticket renewal

By T-Bone

February 24, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this

I just thought of a horrifying scenario. The Thrashers go on some too-little-too-late winning streak in March and move up to the 9th or 10th spot in the East whereby, our astute judge of talent GM will be picking in the middle 1st round. Instead of taking a Kopitar-like talent he trades down envisioning himself some draft day wizard to pick some overweight, underachieving Bourret-like player. The mediocrity continues ad infinitum.

By Tom

February 24, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this

Hmmm…

I wonder if we offered the job of GM and star player to Hossa if he would take the job.

I do believe he has a much better sense of what it takes to create a winning team than present management. Since having the GM in the locker room for the whole season is not a problem why not give it to a player.

Hossa will also command the respect of other top players that might come join him.

(this is a facetious post but at the same time compared to the present team situation maybe not that far fetched.)

By The Other Bob

February 24, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this

Rawhide - Don’t worry about the haters…they are just hack wanna-bes.

They’re just jealous because they get about 2 comments to their bland posts…(yawn).

If two of us go on their sites and posts comments about what morons they are…the only thing it serves is to double the activity on their boring, meaningless, pethetic sites….of couse, that’s probably their entire reasoning for saying anything about this blog and it’s host.

Brendan - As to your poll question the other day….I was a B reponder until last night…now I’m an A all the way!!

By Thrasherbob

February 24, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this

Brandan - AAAAAAAaaaa!

By bart

February 24, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this

So, let’s admit the Thrash are out of it this year.
Will ASG commit to serious rebuilding? New GM, new coach, younger team with some character? Will they give up the pretense that this team can compete for an extended period of time? Most of the people that write here love this team but we see that it is not working for many reasons. IMO a signal from ASG that they are starting over would help season tickets more than the status quo. I’m not willing to spend more money to see this season repeated next year.

By The Dnulke Report

February 24, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this

Reports are surfacing that the Atlanta Thrashers have reached an agreement with the Columbus Blue Jackets. According to the terms of the agreement, the Atlanta Thrashers have traded Marian Hossa, Bryan Little, and their 2008 first round draft pick to the Columbus Blue Jackets for Sergei Fedorov and Adam Foote. (d4)

By John

February 24, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this

Hey guys, ignore the attacks against this site. I came here as a Boston fan looking for Hossa info and found the dialogue extremely well-informed AND civil. Keep up the great work…don’t lose the passion..and don’t accept mediocrity. YOU are the people who will demand the Thrashers do whats needed to get better. Your passion WILL make a difference. Good luck!

By LAC

February 24, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this

levenson a SMART guy…

How about Lying Dumb A$$, that is a Fair term for that two bit punk loser !!!!!!

By LAC

February 24, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this

Hey alan, You know I have to really wonder if you understand professional hockey or the sport in general.

In business, and YOU do understand it is a business, I own several and know the importance of having the right people in the right job.

Dumb waddell is not a smart hockey man. He does not understand anything concerning professional hockey, Idoubt he could be an effective street hockey coach.

When youhave BAD employees who do a BAD job you FIRE them, end the problem and remove it.

You are so blind from being in the sun you cannot see the cancer he is to the franchise, he SUCKS and your childish comments show me your apptitude is on a level with his a very low level.

You alan, have no clue just like your hero, so just go away and hope your hero don is there to hold your hand…OK ?

By R. Stroz

February 24, 2008 5:57 PM | Link to this

LAC - I think you may be missing Alan’s point.

Alan hasn’t said that he supports DW or the owners.

Alan’s point is that the team isn’t moving anytime soon.

By bob (other)

February 24, 2008 6:54 PM | Link to this

LAC, Contrary to your claim, I don’t believe you understand business at all, which this is.Childish rants are not constructive either.

By thrashers suck

February 24, 2008 8:36 PM | Link to this

Hossa may not be having a great year but it sure would be a bummer when we lose him. DW is going to trade him soon. At least we’ll be able to get something for him rather than him just leaving as a free agent…. All things considered, the thrashers are a horrible team. I feel bad for Kovy. He has to play for a team of losers.I curse everyone(Don Waddell) who helped make the thrashers such a piece of crap!

By sick of losers

February 24, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this

the thrashers suck guy is right—DW created this team and it is crap. The best thing DW ever did was hire Bob Hartley—let’s get him back with a GM who wouldnt draft Patrik Stefan ahead of Scott Gomez or Coburn ahead of Phaneuf and start a real team.

By sick of losers

February 24, 2008 8:49 PM | Link to this

the thrashers suck guy is right—DW created this team and it is crap. The best thing DW ever did was hire Bob Hartley—let’s get him back with a GM who wouldnt draft Patrik Stefan ahead of Scott Gomez or Coburn ahead of Phaneuf and start a real team. anyone who would make Damian Rhoeds his #1 signee has issues

By Bob

February 24, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this

Hossa knows what it takes to win and is telling everyone in Atlanta that our current owner/GM/coach lack the Right Stuff or the Right Vision. The real question is whether firing DW will fix the problem or do the Thrashers need new owners as well.

If they hire a quality GM, you’d be amazed at how quickly it could be turned around. Lots of bad contracts fall off the books this summer, Rucchin’s, Holik’s, and then there’s the $7m in extra cap space that Hoss took up.

This is good news, folks. Waddell has been the problem since Day 1, nothing is going to change until he’s gone, and he’s gone at the end of this year and we can finally, finally, get on with building a successful franchise here.

I wouldn’t be suprised to hear that Hoss would entertain offers from the new GM, assuming it’s a quality guy.

By Alan

February 24, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this

Stroz - Thanks. I’ve been under the weather lately and was asleep when LAC went on another “Dumb Waddell” tirade.

By Thrasher Ryan

February 24, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this

GO FLAMES!!!

By Thrasher Ryan

February 24, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this

GO FLAMES!!!

By Brendan

February 24, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this

Bob brings up an interesting point. If Atlanta brought in a “quality” GM, and this “quality GM,” finagled ASG-backing to offer Hossa 7-8 years, at the money he’s looking for, perhaps Hossa could be swayed. But even if that happened, what does the ASG do about Kovy in 2010? Seriously folks, it’s not “pie in the sky” that Kovalchuk would get a 12-year deal, valued in excess of $119 million. If Atlanta doesn’t offer it, someone else will.

Let’s face it, if you’re a GM out there … and Kovalchuk’s agent says to you, in unrestricted free agency, we’re looking to lock up a “lifetime” contract today. Are you interested in 12-years of Kovalchuk? … You’re going to keep listening. You want to tell your season ticket holders … that the single most prolific winger in the NHL is coming to your town … pretty much ‘til he retires.

In other news, This Nick Schultz, D-man, signing my Minnesota flew completely under my radar. Do you “like” this contract?

By Thrasher Ryan

February 24, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this

We have a few “untouchables”.

Kovalchuk
Enstrom
Exelby (Our only Defender that can HIT someone)
Bryan Little
Ondrej Pavelec
Boris Valabik
Perrin
Dupuis
Kozlov (via NTC)

Everyone else is fair game.

Come on Waddell, LET THE FIRESALE BEGIN!!!

By d

February 24, 2008 10:04 PM | Link to this

Two questions:

1. If Holik is gone Tuesday afternoon does Kovy or Rechi get the C?

2. Will DW be willing to sacrifice the balance of the 07-08 season - and possibly his job — by making trades that will generate an abundance of 1st and 2nd round picks during the next two drafts?

By J(Z)

February 24, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this

Sundin will not waive no-trade clause

Good news for the Thrashers!!!!!

By 911 Operator

February 24, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this

PJ - Check your emails

By Nikita

February 24, 2008 11:20 PM | Link to this

One quibble with your untouchables list…

Exelby is a moron. He is young, which means maybe he can be taught, but good god is he sloppy. In a related note, was that Boulton or Thorburn that was such a hard hitter last night? There was an awesome slam in the 2nd by someone on that line.

My untouchables list… Kovalchuk Enstrom Lehtonen Perrin Kozlov (via NTC) Recchi

I actually think most of the team would be fine if it had decent direction/coaching and/or a handful of higher-numbers scorers to work with. As it is we’re asking a lot of depth players to play like the top line, and that’s not realistic. But anyone beyond that list above can go.

Except Zhitnik, who needs to be sent down, waived, or otherwise considered a loss till he goes UFA or gets his attitude together.

By Nikita

February 24, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this

One quibble with your untouchables list…

Exelby is a moron. He is young, which means maybe he can be taught, but good god is he sloppy. In a related note, was that Boulton or Thorburn that was such a hard hitter last night? There was an awesome slam in the 2nd by someone on that line.

My untouchables list… Kovalchuk Enstrom Lehtonen Perrin Kozlov (via NTC) Recchi

I actually think most of the team would be fine if it had decent direction/coaching and/or a handful of higher-numbers scorers to work with. As it is we’re asking a lot of depth players to play like the top line, and that’s not realistic. But anyone beyond that list above can go if it’s to our advantage. I’d prioritize the moving of the smaller and older players first.

Except Zhitnik, who needs to be sent down, waived, or otherwise considered a loss till he goes UFA or gets his attitude together ten minutes after the trade deadline passes and we can’t trade him.

By Mike

February 25, 2008 12:13 AM | Link to this

My untouchables list:

Recchi Kovalchuk Perrin Dupuis Enstrom Boulton

That’s it. Send that moron Exelby to anywhere for a bag of pucks, I don’t care. He has been so careless and awful this season. Boulton hits people, so we’d still have that according to my untouchables list. Lehtonen has been so shaky and unstable. Those are not qualities you can afford for your number one netminder to have. Kari can look brilliant and appear to be one of the best goalies in the NHL one night, and the next night he lets in 3 softies. Too inconsistent. Let Moose finish out the year and bring Pavalec up for a few games of experience.

Let’s say we trade nobody except Hossa. Here’s my lines.

Kovy-Perrin-Dupuis Kozlov-White-Recchi Larsen-Holik-(Hossa’s replacement) Boulton-Slater-Thorborn

Let the sad fire sale begin. Can we trade Waddell? Trade him to Columbus for their first round pick… I’ll even volunteer to coach the team. I’d just have to try not and win so much that way we get a better draft pick. OK, for a better draft pick, maybe we should keep Waddell and let him loose the last 18 or so games.

FIRE WADDELL! That, or lose your season ticket base revenue…

By Lew318

February 25, 2008 8:43 AM | Link to this

HookyBob

My comment on Hartley was half joke and half serious. As I understand it we are paying his salary (unless he starts coaching for someone else) through next year. bring him back, at least he had a system and he instilled discipline. This team is still missing the charater!!

Go Thrashers

By Ilya k

February 25, 2008 9:57 AM | Link to this

USING GOALS FOR/AGAINST WE ARE THE WORST TEAM IN THE NHL. great job GM!

By vonlindner

February 25, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this

Yep, you guys need to fire Waddell.

Yes you do look like an expansion team because:

You need a real GM and a separate Coach… and a real coach.

You need a better scouting staff so you do better drafts pick, you need more depth espacially in your farm club, you need to have have a real strategy to develop your players from the time they are drafted.

You need to play the trap (like Colombus) for a while… until you have the talent to play a game that is muich more open.

Lastly you are back at square 1. That is fine you know, Toronto has been there for the past 40 years. Your management just needs to start things right, build a plan and stick to it even if it means missing the play offs. You need young talent for Hossa, not established players because your team has no future in the short term… you need young talent because your future is in 4-5 years if you start it right now.

The problem is… What is Waddell’s vision and plan when trading Hossa? Does he have any? Will it be similar to the next GM’s plan?

Let’s hope for you guys that he is thinking long term and not short term.

Too many teams think short term and don’t want to go through the pain of building a team with depth… The result is often that this team qualifies for the playoffs, gets a good run and then, the following year, because of lack of depth does not even qualify for the playoffs.

Get someone who can build your team now… dont make the same mistake that Toronto has been making over and over again from the past 40 years… learn from your mistakes… unlkke them…

By John

February 25, 2008 11:41 AM | Link to this

HI, FWIW, here’s what the Bruins beat reporter says it will take to land Hossa: A Young NHL player, a good prospect, and a First Round Draft Pick. The Bruins have been pretty aggressive in pursuing Hossa, but now they seem to be pulling back a bit (or maybe lessesning expectations). B’s GM Chiarelli says he’s not shopping Phil Kessel. I would think Atlanta would want Kessel as part of a package. I was wanting Hosa big time because he’s such an elite player. But when you figure what a team will have to do to compensate Atlanta THEN pay out to Hossa (minimum 5 years, $40 Million)—I think its risky. I think Jokinen with two years left at $5.2 Million a year is a much safer bet for teams like Boston, Montreal, Detroit or whoever. The Flyers Jeff Carter is also moving up the want lists of these teams. But, hey, it will be very interesting for you guys, I think you have a chance to really stockpile for the future. If I were a Thrashers fan, I’d quietly hope they lose—-get an elite #1 pick PLUS a nice #1 from the Hossa deal PLS 2 two top prospects. It will more than undue the unmitigated disaster of the Tkazcuk deal and set you up perhaps for the next 3 to 5 years. Good luck.

By Brendan

February 25, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this

Thank you, John. You’ve been a welcome new visitor. And I agree with your post. Atlanta has to think about the longterm, but not just that, getting it RIGHT for the longterm. Folks in this town have waited eight seasons to “scare” people. Their patience has worn thin. The time to have made a move was before the lockout. But, it is what it is, and INACTION at the GM position has cost us. The sooner the ASG realizes that we’re much closer to Square One than reaching the Conference Finals, the better it will be.

I think you can sell Thrashers fans about the future THE MOST … by bringing in a top name. Scotty Bowman would be nice! But c’mon. That’s not going to happen. And, well … what GM wants to come into this situation with a “self-imposed” budget, $8 million below the cap? My only answer is … a “patient” GM who knows his role is to draft FLAWLESSLY and sell off veterans for young, speedy, gritty talent. And that’s your 3-year plan, right there. Suck, if you must, but do NAIL those draft picks, and in the latter rounds, too, so that we can have something akin to “Kopitar, Cammalleri, Brown, Frolov, and Johnson” cookin’ right here in Atlanta. If we get that kind of “nucleus,” we’ll be allright, plus Kari and Pavelec, and Enstrom, and Little, Sterling, Stuart, Oystrick, Valabik, etc., etc.

By John

February 25, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this

Brendan, If you have that self-imposed cap I think you have no choice but to go young. Take a look at the Blueprint from Buffalo and Nashville and how far they went last year with almost all homegrown talent. You’ve got to invest in Scouting to nail those picks and you’ve got to invest in your minor league system. Do that and spend your money on DEFENSE and impliment a system that demands accountability on both ends of the ice from yhour forwards. Make this your Primary Objective: make Kari’s job the easiest in the NHL. Do that- and if you can hit the Jackpot with discarded veteran gems like Recchi—you guys will be right back in the thick of things. Hey, I hope we can help out your Draft positioning Saturday Afternoon (LOL) Good luck..

By Red Light

February 25, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this

The only bright light in this mismanaged, bungling franchise is that at least Waddell has seen the light in terms of not extending long-term extensions, except to Kovy, Kozzie and White. Of course, the Zhitnik assumption is one he must be kicking himself over, and the Exelby extension is a haunting proposition too. In my opinion, he needs to discuss a long-term extension with Enstrom but I now have my doubts about whether or not Lehtonen will re-up. Some GM may try to pull a Kevin Lowe and sign him, as I think they realize what he’s up against here.

If the trade comes down, and Waddell accepts anyone over the age of 27 in return for Hossa, I think it will confirm what nearly everyone hear thinks: you can’t spell “DOWNER” without DW.

By Brendan

February 25, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this

John, you’re right on the money. Start in goal, build a team around it, emphasis on defense, and stay “young, fast, and gritty” … while not overpaying or OVERCOMMITING YEARS in the process. I can’t see how this strategy could fail. Pay Tier One players at a Tier One rate, Tier Two players at a Tier Two rate, and so on and so forth. Draft well! Invest in scouting. Don’t accept mediocrity. If after three years, none of your 2nd or 3rd round picks have hit, it’s an “indicator.” LOL.

By Brendan

February 25, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this

John, you’re right on the money. Start in goal, build a team around it, emphasis on defense, and stay “young, fast, and gritty” … while not overpaying or OVERCOMMITING YEARS in the process. I can’t see how this strategy could fail. Pay Tier One players at a Tier One rate, Tier Two players at a Tier Two rate, and so on and so forth. Draft well! Invest in scouting. Don’t accept mediocrity. If after three years, none of your 2nd or 3rd round picks have hit, it’s an “indicator.” LOL.

By John

February 25, 2008 7:36 PM | Link to this

Brendan, They should hire you as GM. It really is that simple. Problem is—egos and the need to sell tickets immediately gets in the way. What the Marketing people and the “geniuses” don’t understand is one simple fact: WINNING cures everything. And fans WILL support your team if they see it investing wisely in the future. Again, Good Luck! (except for Saturday)

By Brendan

February 25, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this

Thanks John. Unfortunately, the Atlanta Spirit Group have yet to contact me about any “GM” vacancy. :)

But seriously, “good ownership” might best be defined the way you presented it earlier. “Stay out of the way and let the GM handle things.” But, of course, make the GM “explain to you” why he’s doing what he’s doing, so it’s not like the owner is on the moon and the GM is at the bottom of the ocean. These two entities should still be within arm’s length of each other.

But uhhh, that’s predicated on the owners know what a Good GM is. A good GM has positioned the team well on Opening Night, and yet, still has “flexibility” for the trade deadline in February. Good “depth” is essential. And that requires drafting … or … an uncanny ability to find “bargain barrel” free agents at something close to the league minimum. Both will work.

And finally, “don’t get FLEECED” on trades.

By John

February 26, 2008 9:28 AM | Link to this

Hi, It looks like Atlanta did a deal with Boston to trade Hossa over the weekend. BUT it got nixed because the Bruins could NOT negotiate a contract extension. Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli admitted the Bruins had a deal in place with a “high profile player” but the deal did not go through due to the inability to negotiate the extension. The Bruins have agruably been the most aggressive in pursuing Hossa, who has close ties to former team mate and fellow Slovak Zdeno Chara and Marc Savard—AND GM Chiarelli when they were both in Ottawa. Waddell may have a MAJOR problem dealing Hossa because Hossa is VERY HARDC LINE negotiating an extension,. Marian knmows he can go WHERE EVER HE WANTS at the end of the year for BIG BUCKS. Why nnarrow the field to one team now? I wish you guys good luck, but Waddell has a possibly insurmountable challenge dealing Hossa. He may have to settle for chump change on a rent-a-plater deal IMO. We’ll see how this works out. Rumor is—you guys would have got Phil Kessel plus picks/prospects—and Waddell signed off on it. What are you guys hearing?