AJC > Sports Thrashers > Blog > Archives > 2008 > March > 04 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USAn Open Letter To Bruce Levenson
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Mr. Levenson,
Yesterday many Atlanta Thrashers season ticket holders received a letter in your name. In it you discussed the deal last week that saw Marian Hossa and Pascal Dupuis depart to Pittsburgh in return for Colby Armstrong, Erik Christensen, Angelo Esposito and the Penguins 2008 first-round draft pick. You also took the opportunity to express some thoughts on how the Atlanta Thrashers Owners “view the team, and what [your] goals are for the future”. I would like to respond with a couple of questions and concerns regarding the team as well as allow those who frequent this site to do the same…in a respectful manner.
First, I give you a great deal of credit for reaching out to your most loyal of customers and making an attempt to discuss these matters. Certainly one of the factors that create a climate of discontent in any relationship is lack of communication. So, thank you for opening the dialogue and I hope that you continue to do so in the future as situations dictate.
In regards to dealing away Marian Hossa, you said that, “…the decision to trade Marian was reached after exhausting all other possibilities and was one of the most difficult moves we have been forced to make”. While I do not doubt that is the case, the phrase that concerns to me is “forced to make”.
As this season progressed it was very apparent that Hossa had no intention of signing with the team. His reasons for this seem fairly clear…he did not believe that the organization was making the correct decisions that would be necessary to advance the possibility of long-lasting success. His desire to have a true top-line center play along side of him was met with the signing of Todd White and Eric Perrin. Two very fine players that are serviceable on the second and third line, but obviously not what the prolific player had in mind.
Hossa also made it known of his desire to play for a cup-contending team. That he refused to sign here should speak volumes to those claiming to stress a “commitment to winning and to bringing a Stanley Cup to Atlanta”. Because if a team’s record and statistics are the measuring stick for such lofty ambitions, these Thrashers are no closer to that goal then it was in their fourth year of existence.
Another item that became crystal clear as the season progressed is the fact that the biggest area of concern for this team today is the sub-par performance by its defensive corps. To date, they surrender 3.18 goals per games, (28th in the league), and an astonishing 33.4 shots against per game, (only the Florida Panthers are worse). In fact, these defensive problems have been the one constant this team carries from one season to the next.
Tobias Enstrom, the player you referred to as “a work horse”, has been the lone bright spot on a blueline that, at times, resembles that of an expansion franchise. We fans in Blueland shudder at what this slow collection of defenders would look like if not for his efforts. We rejoice at the times when they merely play an average game allowing less than 30 SOG.
This is why I was puzzled when, as this organization held the biggest prize prior to the trade deadline, the team did nothing to address this obvious problem. This is not to take issue with Armstrong and Christensen. Certainly I, as well as others, feel they will contribute greatly to next season’s offensive prowess. But considering 18 days ago this team was in a position to take over the lead in the Southeast Division, and knowing that a player of Hossa’s credentials could certainly attract offers that would have addressed this concern, the team did not do so.
Coincidently, the Thrashers then went on a 0-5-2 run, seeing their defense not just continue to give up shots at an alarming rate, but actually allowed that statistic to worsen. The team then fell like a stone out of contention.
I’m sure I do not have to point out to you the fact that of the 10 teams who have scored fewer goals then have these Thrashers, 7 of them currently hold playoff positions. So, for the front office to continue to turn a seemingly blind eye to what has consistently been our biggest area of concerned is, to say the least, disheartening.
I would ask you then…why did this team not address the problems on the blueline and what are you planning on doing in the not-too-distant future about it?
You made reference to our young talent. While I do look forward to following their advancement, this infers that the fans exercise further patience as the system develops. The patience of many in your fan-base seems to be showing signs of wear as we set our sights on the ninth season of operation. In my opinion, these up-and-coming players should be groomed for placement in an already-established system, not being looked upon to create such a system this deep into our history.
Your last sentence in the letter reads, “Our summer agenda will also include solidifying a head coach who will take us to the next level”. With all due respect sir, this “solidification” should have taken place around the time we sat down to enjoy our Thanksgiving turkeys three and a half months ago. After all, if you’re Marian Hossa and you’re looking to determine what direction the team is going, how can you make such a determination if the organization cannot even move to name a head coach?
Instead the Thrashers opted to keep general manger Don Waddell behind the bench splitting his duties between there and the front office. This was done either at his request to prove that the product he placed on the ice was indeed qualified to contend in this league or it was the insistence of the ownership to prove to them that such was the case.
Regardless, the jury is “in” with respect to the question regarding the competitiveness of this team and either way, Don Waddell loses in the eyes of this juror.
There has been speculation that the reason no new head coach was hired after the release of Bob Hartley was because of financial reasons. Hartley is still due is contract money, thus, no extra payroll was to be added. This might make sound business sense, however it was an unsound hockey decision as the record indicates.
In summary, it is clear that Marian Hossa is no longer a Thrasher due to the fact that the organization failed to meet his stated requirements of displaying the actions of a contender. The organization as a whole needs a paradigm shift in the way it views the importance of basing a winning team from the foundation of a strong defense. And finally, whomever made the decision to keep Don Waddell behind the bench and not place a full time coach there needs to acknowledge that it was the incorrect decision to make…unless the decision was made in an attempt to give Don Waddell a chance to prove this team could be coached to a playoff position.
If that was indeed the reason, then the results are more than enough to make clear what your first call of order should be on Monday morning April 7th of this year. Begin the search for a new coach as well as a new general manger. And, if I may be so bold to add, they should both be dedicated to the proposition that all true contending teams build first from the blueline and take that understanding into the summer intent on opening the checkbook and bringing into Philips Arena those type of players.
Thank you very much for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Bill Tiller - A True-Blue, die-hard Thrashers fan
Post Post Edit: As Kracker correctly points out, the Thrashers are currently riding an 0-4-3 streak…not 0-5-2.
Comments
Commenting is now closed for this entry.
By The ASG
March 4, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this
Houston, we have a problem.
By Midfield
March 4, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this
Good one, Rawhide. If I were to change anything, I wouldn’t stick Hossa to every paragraph. I really don’t think that the Cup aspirations depend on Hossa that much.
By Bob
March 4, 2008 9:57 AM | Link to this
Begin the search for a new coach as well as a new general manger. And, if I may be so bold to add, they should both be dedicated to the proposition that all true contending teams build first from the blueline and take that understanding into the summer intent on opening the checkbook and bringing into Philips Arena those type of players.
Bravo, Rawhide. Very well sad, all of it.
Dear Mr. Levenson, I respectfully submit that the one underlying problem for woes of this franchise lay at the feet of the inept GM that has been making the decisions.
For the good of this club, it’s fans, and your financial bottom line, you must address the problem from the top down. First, you need a quality, experienced, successful GM to take over the leadership of this club.
Second, it would be prudent to give this GM the authority to hire an experienced quality Coach.
Third, your interests are best served by allowing this new GM to make the proper moves to bring in quality defenders and build this club from the back out. My advice would be to stick with Lehtonen and see what he can do with a quality defense in front of him.
Also, it would be a wise decision to jettison the lame marketing campaign “Believe in Blueland”. Marian Hossa did not. Many of your experienced NHL fans are embarrassed by such a lame marketing campaign, this is not Disney World, this is the NHL.
Lastly, you need to sit back and collect the revenue stream that a successful club will generate from increased exposure in this sports starved town. Many of your fans are transplants and grew up fans of other NHL teams. They have a hard time supporting this product as we know inept leadership when we see it, and this ship has been steered into the rocks by one inept GM.
Fix that problem and watch your revenue stream grow when all the transplants come out of the woodwork and support this club, and the many fans that have dropped out over the years after watching failure after failure of your GM, will come back. We want to believe in your ability to make the proper decisions, but this season ticket holder’s revenue stream is going to be withheld until you prove to me that you’re ready to make the overdue necessary changes from the top down.
By Tony H
March 4, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this
Excellent, Rawhide. I would, however, add the following questions and/or comments: 1. Just what does solidifying mean? Sounds like the coach is in place just not called “head” coach. 2. Why not address your GM situation first and let him put the coach in place to match his vision for the team? 3. The ASG should go back and look at the other professional sports teams in Atlanta over the years. IF you build a winner, or at least a very competitive team with a chance at a title, the fans will come. Inferior products + price increases do not equate to more paying fans. Produce a product worthy of your fans hard-earned dollars and they will come. Otherwise you can look at empty seats that don’t spend money on concessions.
By five_hole
March 4, 2008 10:23 AM | Link to this
Well said, Rawhide. What we want is a commitment to building a winning franchise, not one that simply earns a profit for the owners.
By Thrasherbob
March 4, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this
Dang Rawhide, You could land a jumbo jet on them things between your legs. Well said! You know, someone in his office is gonna show your article to him but we know he ain’t got the runway to respond.
By DaveM
March 4, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this
Very well thought out letter. I’m glad this is being brought to the Spirit’s attention in yet another forum.
I agree with everything said above. I also question the ability to purchase single game tickets at significantly lower than season ticket prices. I am a season ticket holder and have been since the beginning. The product is not near as good as it could/should be and my prices continually go up. I am also surrounded on most nights by people who paid 50% of face value due to some promotion or another.
As of today I do not plan to renew until summer when I see the direction of the team. The newly added “benefits” do not compensate for the product on the ice.
By LAC
March 4, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this
Bravo, i just hope that levenson can read this, is he even THAT Capable ?
Until waddell is gone and new owners… We will never be a true contender, REAL owners put forth the effort both on and off the ice,asg has done neither and I do not trust them to anything but behave badly again in regard to keeping waddell, master of HIS OWN MESS!!!, and third and fourth line players few other teams want…
They need to look at The Capitals and how THEY turned the corner after firing their coach… We DID NOT and are worse for it, we need a REAL GM & Coach, no more of this same thing we have been stuck with for the past 8 season, Like sand through an hour glass… The last grain has dropped for waddell I HOPE !!!!
By Bob Hartley
March 4, 2008 11:13 AM | Link to this
Yeah ya know, like, uh you guys like uh fired the wrong guy, ya know!
By B. Hartley
March 4, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this
My prediction: Don Waddell will step down on his own after the season is over. The ASG is clueless whne it comes to hockey and the fact that no new coach was hired is because of the ASG is still paying B. Hartley.
By NASCAR Dave
March 4, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this
BRUCE I WILL BUY SEASON TICKETS AS SOON AS YOU FIRE WADDELL.
WE WANT CHICAGO WOLVES COACH JOHN ANDERSON BROUGHT IN AND EX-ATLANTA FLAME PAT QUINN BROUGHT IN AS GM.
THANKS.
By B. Hartley
March 4, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this
My prediction: Don Waddell will step down on his own after the season is over. The ASG is clueless whne it comes to hockey and the fact that no new coach was hired is because of the ASG is still paying B. Hartley.
By Bromodrosis
March 4, 2008 11:35 AM | Link to this
Couple of questions here.
1 - What qualified coach was available in the middle of the season?
2 - What team who is willing to acquire Hossa for a playoff push would be willing to surrender a top flite defenseman at the same time?
The answer to both is none. And while I don’t disagree that this franchise is being run into the ground by inept ownership, let’s be honest, good coaches aren’t available mid-season. Good coaches have jobs, bad coaches wait for desperate teams to make desperate moves. Hartley was only available because he’d been fired by the Avalanche.
By scott
March 4, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this
Nice Letter Rawhide. I would like to add, that despite the poor overall performance of the team this year, and the step back from a playoff berth last year, the ownership decided to give themselves a “raise” by increasing ticket prices (7% on my seats). This increase was after hearing all year that the payroll well below cap would give us flexibility at the trade deadline. At the trade deadline, the Thrashers SHED an additional 3+ million in payroll. Perhaps next year, ASG should offer a flex plan for after the trade deadline games - if their plan is to “start really trying” at and after the trade deadline, that’s when I’ll put my butt in a seat.
By Justin Croft
March 4, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this
There are a lot of season ticket holders that feel this way, including myself. The people who are in charge of making decisions in this organizaion have totally neglected this team’s needs. Hossa was the right move, but how can you not upgrade your a defensive corps???. Oh and lets put our worst two defensivemen(X and McCarthy) on the same pairing…thanks Don. I need to see some effort before I renew. Sincerely, one p** off STH…as of this season
By Smoothie
March 4, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this
Amen Rawhide! Amen brother!
Time to start fresh with a new vision, new GM and a coach who will capably teach his players the nuances of responsible two-way play and hold accountable those players who do not buy into the program 100%.
Once that type of commitment to change and progress is manifested by the actions of the ASG, players like Brian Campbell, Kristian Huselius, JP Dumont, Chris Kelly and Mike Ribeiro might just give serious consideration to the prospect of becoming an Atlanta Thrasher.
Respectfully, A passionate hockey fan and partial-season ticket holder
By License to Ilya
March 4, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this
To: Bromodrosis
No one would have given up a top flight defenseman at the trade deadline - true. But Pitt has nice prospects on the blueline. I think it would have be fairly easy to to get Letang and let Pitt keep their first and Esposito. Makes more sense that way but I’m no GM…
By Smoothie
March 4, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this
Bromodrosis — answer to # 2) Hossa should have been shopped for an elite top-pairing D-man, or at least an up and coming 2nd pairing youngster, as early as last fall when it was evident he was quite “unconvinced” (for lack of a better word) that Atlanta should be his long-term hockey home. It was postulated on this blog that his value would have been much higher at that time and “solidifying” the blueline would have been a more prudent move by the organization at that juncture.
By Fed-Up
March 4, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this
I am so fed up with all the trash talk from the media and the fans who can’t give this team or organization a decent break without jumping on them from every direction for everything they do that does not make someone happy. This crap has been going on and on. LET IT GO PEOPLE! GIVE THEM A CHANCE TO FIX THINGS! How would you like it if people nit picked every aspect of you every single day?
By ranallo10
March 4, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this
Amount of hits this blog will receive from any member of the ASG ownership group:
0
By seriously?
March 4, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this
Seriously?
Your lack of true knowledge of the situation really shows when you state your opinions based on assumptions that are not true.
First, you blame Waddell for coaching the season…when it was a concious decision by the OWNERS to wait until AFTER the season to hire a new coach.
Second, Waddel wanted to give the job to McCrimmon, but Beast will not accept the job unless given a multi-year contract. And the Thrashers cannot sign Anderson from Chicago because they do not own the team and thus have to have the Chicago owners approval to interview him. Thus, there was only one option for the rest of the year…have waddell coach.
If it wasn’t for Hartley’s collapse in the beggining, and Beast reluctance to take the job after the all star game (when we were ACTUALLY in first place)…Waddell’s work would have been from 0-6 to division leaders. The trading deadline and the work with all that completely wore him, and the team down. He was doing TWO jobs at the same time…and those games were in the most hockey crazy media markets…just watch his interviews after the trade…he is exhausted.
We were put in a bad situation after Hartley’s 0-6….and a worse situation when Beast wouldn’t take the job so Waddell could focus on his GM duties.
The criticism for Waddell is unfounded, in my opinion. Instead of complaining about him…maybe you should instead ask the owners to spend to the cap? That will be more constructive then your baseless opinions
By The Falconer
March 4, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this
Well spoken.
I want to be a fan and a consumer but the product just isn’t very good and that’s because the key decisions haven’t been very good.
By Vaseline
March 4, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this
“Rawhide???”
You must’ve gotten that name from your Midtown dating activities.
From your obvious repressed ‘Freudian’ issues with Don Waddell, you sound as if the only “stick handling” in your particular realm of expertise has NOTHING to do with ice skates.
Toodles!
By Bromodrosis
March 4, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this
License to Ilya PIT isn’t giving up Letang, are you kidding? He’s their star defenseman and he’s dirt cheap. They’re going to have a tough time with the cap going forward.
Smoothie It’s always easier to look back and make decisions witht he benfit of historical context, but this team was chugging along and playing well until after Christmas. If you have a chance to win a division or trade a guy, you go for the division. This team is still trying to sell hockey to a non-traditional fanbase. Trading your (arguably) best player in midseason looks like a horrible decision to a casual fan. Winning the division is going to get a lot more butts in seats.
He took a risk. But he still got very good value at the deadline. The Thrashers were still viable candidates to win the division until Kovalchuk hurt his knee. Although He’s GOT to get rid of the deadweight on the defense. Bringing in fossils like Klee and Zhitnik kills this team every year.
By scott
March 4, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this
DaveM Great point about the promotions and filling surrounding seats with people paying 50% face value. Kind of makes me feel like a sucker
By UpperDeck4Life
March 4, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this
Rawhide very well put. But to be honest, I think the ASG and the Thrashers organization need a more profound message. The last few seasons I took several groups of kids to Thrashers games as well as had a 1/2 season plan. I did not renew my plan this season, nor have I taken any groups of kids this year, although I have gotten several phone calls from my ticket person, I have stayed fast in my desire to keep my little one man protest going. But to get back to my original point, I think a loud message needs to be sent to the ASG. What about a one game boycot or a walkout. Some will say that if it is a week night, who’s going to notice because no one shows up anyways, but this way they don’t get the added revenue. The other way, the walkout is definitly more noticeable, but they get the revenue from the tickets. I say if you want to send a message to the Thrashers and ASG. Organize one of those 2 things during our remaining home games.
By Sara
March 4, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this
ranallo do not assume Levenson will not read this. He has posted on the message boards at the Thrashers’ team site and also on the Nasty Nest boards in the past. Not often, but it has happened. They pay more attention than you might think.
Over the weekend I heard a few different things from some friends that coupled with the letter from Bruce and the new STH perks make me think this organization has figured out they made some, er, “missteps” to put it nicely. I think some of you are going to be very surprised at the changes that come about over this off-season - most likely before we even get to the draft.
By Thrasher Ryan
March 4, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this
Folks, let’s look at the facts. Waddell has had 9 years (going on 10) with this franchise. He has no playoff victories. His drafting has been less than stellar. His free agent signings are laughable.
Waddell has had plenty of time. I think he is a great person; I just think his time as Thrashers Head Coach/GM/Vice President should be over.
He had his chance. Now it’s time to move forward without him.
By Tony C.
March 4, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this
Mr. Tiller-
WOW.
Great letter muy cojones migo!
I think that DW can fix things, but the way the Hossa drama played out, it seems he’s lost too much credibility-but with the pieces the trade brought back, and some workman-like effort to jockey for position in this year’s draft (which is supposed to be the beginning of this generation’s high-water mark), it’s not unreasonable to think that a much more sound and therefore, competitive team can be assembled by as early as this June.
Somebody get Levenson’s blackberry address.
Let’s blow his email up.
GO BLUE !!!
OPERATION: Believe in Tankland IS GO!
By JB
March 4, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this
Dear Bruce,
I am a member of the Thrashers message boards, and follow this team religiously both during the season and the offseason during the draft and free agency periods. I am writing this for the same reason most people are posting in this blog and the same reason Rawhide started this blog.
As I said previously I am a huge Thrasher fan, and keep that in mind while readaing this:
1) This team has been covered in mediocrity for far too long, we won our division last season and from that many people, including myself, thought that we would improve from that point forward. However, it seems that we have regressed more than we have progressed. Now granted we didn’t get off to a great start this season; however after that we didn’t ever get to the point where we were more than two games over the .500 mark. If we expect to remain competitive and expect to win championships we cannot continue to be a .500 hockey club. 2) Don Waddell has been a solid GM for this team since its inception, and has brought in the talent that this team has been known for(i.e. Ilya Kovalchuk, Kari Lehtonen and Toby Enstrom) but the problem with that listing is every one of those players have been drafted(which I don’t have a problem with) but the problem I do have is that this team is not bringing in solid, first line talent through free agency. Now I do understand that championships can’t be won on the backs of first liners only and the performance of third and fourth line players are at points just as important; but we have only one true first line forward on our roster and that is Ilya Kovalchuk; in the same sentence we only have two quality first pairing defensemen; Nic Havelid and Toby Enstrom.
This team needs to make a splash in the free agent market and bring in a new crop of talent that will help this team now and in the future, and to do that we need to spend money on the team. Please do not interpret that to mean we need to spend 4.5 million dollars on a third line player, we need to spend money and spend it in places that are going to help this team. Players like Brian Campbell and Brooks Orpik should be on the top of our shopping list this offseason.
I trust you will do everything humanly possible to make this team into a winner.
Thank you for your time,
JB
By PJ
March 4, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this
Rawhide
Spoken from the heart, nice.
Where is Brendan? I expect no less than 10 paragraphs in commentary.
Sara Thrashers fans are due a pleasant surprise. I hope you are right.
Seriously Glad to see someone in the ASG organIzation step up and provide some commentary……..you are affiliated with or work for ASG, No? I personally was unaware that the Beast was holding out for a longer contract. Also, permission to interview??? That’s a new one.
By Over 18
March 4, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this
Tony C,
I wish you all the best with you elementary school graduation this May.
By The Other Bob
March 4, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this
Seriously - So, you KNOW this for a fact???? Your sources are????? You are an insider???????
Do tell?
By Alan
March 4, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this
Where is Brendan? I expect no less than 10 paragraphs in commentary.
I think he’s still speaking with his editor in preparation to have his manuscript published. ;)
By Brendan
March 4, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this
I have NEVER HEARD that Brad McCrimmon “turned down” the Head Coaching position. I’d like to let Brad McCrimmon go on 680TheFan, the “flagship station of the Atlanta Thrashers,” to personally respond to that allegation. I think that’s only “fair.”
While I’m sure that Don Waddell was stretched to the limit of his abilities, he never uttered a “peep” of complaint about it. What is it about this guy? He has horrible working conditions and grins along, merrily. When he could be running to every media outlet to complain about them. He doesn’t, probably, because he hopes to land another NHL gig one day. And I hope he gets it.
Rawhide, kudos to you, good sir, for such a fine and passionate post. I think it’s a sad commentary, however, that fan bloggers have nudge, prod, and SCREAM—to the very point of product boycott—to get what any other organization would do instinctively after 10 years, eight seasons, one playoff berth, and zero playoff wins.
Two (2) defensemen out of 27 drafted have cracked Atlanta’s starting lineup. Just over a handful of Waddell draft picks play “somewhere” in the NHL. And while someone will inevitably chime in to say … who has more 8th round picks in their starting lineup than Atlanta, how does such short-sighted thinking really absolve the utter failures from picks #13 and beyond, on balance??
Stop. No matter how much you might love, adore, worship, admire and coddle Don Waddell, there is “accountability” in sports for GM’s. It’s not some “lifetime” appointment. And Don Waddell knew this coming in. Historically, “expansion” GM’s don’t have a very long “shelf-life.” They are fortunate to get 5-6 years. Doug Risebrough, GM of the Wild, is enjoying some fine longevity with that club, but he’s taken it to the Conference Finals and will soon have three (3) playoff berths to show for it. Not to mention that fact that Minnesota is looking at a potentially high seed and represents a team that many people “fear” facing in the Opening Round. Can the same be said of Atlanta?
Stop. Every single one of you … is capable of being honest. And while you’re being honest, and contemplating all the MITIGATING FACTORS that excuse Don Waddell, the truth is … “every GM who EVER got fired … can point to “something” as an excuse why things didn’t work out.” Waddell is hardly in his 3rd year. He’s going on a DECADE at the helm. It is what it is. He’s not the worst GM hockey. But neither is he leading us towards the “promised land” called the Stanley Cup. Those who disagree probably feel … he just needs another 5-8 years … and we’ll get there. And to be patient.
Where are you living? In “bizarro world,” where hamburgers eat people? GM’s don’t get 8 years and 7 seasons to make it to playoff game #1. They don’t get 10 years to get to Round Two, either. These are the terms and conditions of the workplace. In virtually every NHL market. Whenever a GM is hired, it’s not a matter of “if, but when” he’ll get fired. It’s reality.
By Bob
March 4, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this
let’s be honest, good coaches aren’t available mid-season
Hmmm, who was it coaching the Caps last night as they annihilated the Bruin? Oh, that’s right, that was their new coach brought in after firing their coach mid-season
do not assume Levenson will not read this. He has posted on the message boards at the Thrashers’ team site and also on the Nasty Nest boards in the past. Not often, but it has happened. They pay more attention than you might think
Yep, I read Levenson posting on the Thrashers’ message boards and on the Nasty Nest site. I guarantee that Levenson has already read this and from the looks of a blog or two above, some members of the Spirit Org. are already here spinning their reply. Word to the wise, save the spin, and just get us a real GM that can build a competitive time.
Look, these guys are in full on scramble mode. Season tix renewals are not going well, that is beyond obvious to all but a couple of the usual suspects around here.
I suspect that what Sara has heard is true and we will see some major changes being made. And it’s beyond time, I’ve been calling for it for over 5 years.
Nothing meaningful will change here until meaningful changes are made and a real GM is brought in
By ranallo10
March 4, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this
Sara — Perhaps it’s my cynical look on the way the ASG has treated their faithful fans…but I highly doubt anything substantial will change.
I still scoff at the fact that what’s-his-face from the ASG had the nerve to say they wanted to “bring the Stanley Cup to Atlanta” during the banner drop. My STH buddy and I looked at eachother in disbelief that a guy admitted they wanted to win the Cup while sitting $6M under the salary cap and having $2M locked into a player who had yet to be placed on the IR (for salary cap relief).
I’ve supported Waddell’s “vision” and “decisions”, and can still understand what he’s trying to do up against a tough situation, but the ASG has given me no reason to continue to be supportive/protective of their decisions. I don’t think it’s as easy as “fire Waddell, hire a competent replacement”, but I do feel opening the purse strings would greatly help the situation.
In conclusion, no, I don’t believe Bruce Levenson will read this. If he DOES read this, I don’t believe anything meaningful will change as a direct result. I do not have that strong of faith with this ownership group. This season they’ve treated us like a fast food restaurant and not a fine dining establishment.
Last season we were an Applebee’s, this season we’re a Taco Bell. Cut the overhead, give less bang for your buck to the customer, but still make a profit. Less people will be happy, but your business will still succeed.
By ranallo10
March 4, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this
Hmmm, who was it coaching the Caps last night as they annihilated the Bruin? Oh, that’s right, that was their new coach brought in after firing their coach mid-season
Boudreau was a long shot, and not what I’d consider a “good coach” available to head coach their team. If you consider every AHL coach with experience and a winning record once or twice, then I guess he fits into your “good coach” category.
That being said, I’d be happy as hell if John Anderson were hired. He’s who I want. But if the ASG said “no Don, you can’t hire anybody else, we can’t afford Rucchin, Hartley AND Anderson”, then I guess we were up the proverbial creek.
Boudreau made good stuff happen in Washington, but it doesn’t always work that easily. I hope Anderson could do the same.
By thefish
March 4, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this
Fine letter. What you failed to mention is that the ASG now has the audacity to RAISE ticket prices in the face of this overwhelming 9th season of mediocrity. BOO!!!!!! FIRE WADDELL already!!! Give youselves at least some semblence of respect.
By PJ
March 4, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this
Brendan, Only seven paragraphs? Go have your coffee honey, you’re not done yet. Glad to see I was not the only one unaware of the Beast deal or should I say, no deal. Now, could you please explain to me this “permission to interview” a coach….. Is that legit?
By Maal
March 4, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this
Well you were much nicer than I would have been, had I received a letter. My reply would’ve had at least one F-bomb, and the dire warning that they face losing what’s left of their talent on the team if they carry on. You should scan the letter and email it to me :-D
By ranallo10
March 4, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this
PJ — Much like other professional sports, a franchise needs to receive permission to approach a coach currently under contract by another franchise, and without approval cannot get into discussions regarding hiring that coach.
So if Anderson is owned by another franchise (Chicago Wolves) and is not given permission to discuss a coaching vacancy by his franchise, he cannot be hired without breaching his current contract (and likely facing a denial by the NHL governing body due to non-compliance with the CBA).
By kracker
March 4, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this
RH Hey there, I am still reading your initial blog entry. At one point you wrote Coincidently, the Thrashers then went on a 0-5-2 run…If you are refering to the recent games following the Feb. 15th shootout win at New Jersey, the team’s record is 0-4-3 with the Thrash earning an OT or SO point in the last three games.
By PJ
March 4, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this
Ranallo10, Thank you for the explaination of the CBA rules.
By ranallo10
March 4, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this
Brendan — So what you’re saying is…?
Basically this ownership group is not able to make the types of decisions that you feel would be made by most competent owners. The mold is being broken by the owners, not the GM, yet most people are using the GM as the scapegoat.
Mitigating factors aside, Waddell has made his owners money. We can’t deny that, can we?? Perhaps these owners are content with simply “making a profit” and could care less about how it’s done.
If that’s the case (which it seems is likely), then Waddell is their PERFECT GM because he can make a team that resembles a division contender, but costs them that of a low tier team.
By Bob
March 4, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this
Here’s a little help for those that suffer under the delusion that simply spending to the Cap especially in the new Cap world, guarantees success. It doesn’t, it’s the GM that can find the right guys while staying under the Cap, that equates to success.
First off, the Spirit spent to the Cap the first two years out of the Cap, and did it get us one playoff win? No.
Here’s a look at the clubs that spent less this year than the Spirit let Waddell spend, and what their records are-
Thrashers are $7.29m under the Cap, we know what their record is.
Penguins are $8.68m under the Cap, they currently lead the East with 81 pts., and have our former best all around player on their roster set for a playoff run!
Tampa is $7.68m under the Cap, they sit at dead last in the East with 59 pts (yeah, they suck worse than we do!).
San Jose is $10.32 under the Cap, they sit at 82 pts and 5th in the more competitive West (let that sink in, they spent $3m less than we did and look at their lineup and prospects for a Cup run)
but let’s journey on…
Washington is $12m under the Cap, they sit at 70 pts., game in hand and 3 pts back of Carolina for the Division lead, just signed the most prolific scorer in hockey for life, I think it’s fair to say they are heading in the right direction and spent $5m less than us.
Columbus is $12.5m under the Cap, they sit at 70 pts and 4 pts out of the playoffs in the competitive West.
Phoenix is $14.6m under the Cap, they sit at 71pts, 3 pts out of the playoffs in the competitive West.
Nash-Vegas is $16.2m under the Cap! they sit at 74 pts and tied for the last playoff spot in the competitive West.
So only one team that spent less than us (Tampa) is underperforming us. All the rest that spent less are outperforming.
So I assume if Waddell isn’t the problem, and it’s the Spirit boys, then all the owners that are allowing their GM’s to spend more are doing great, right?
Oilers have only $1.9m cap space left, but sit at 67 pts are are jockeying for a lottery pick.
Chicago has $4m cap space left, sit at 68 pts. and will miss the playoffs.
Toronto has $1.4m cap space left, sit at 68 pts and will miss the playoffs.
Flyers have $1.1m cap space left, and are the bubble team in the East.
The Rangers proved over a decade that simply spending more than other clubs does not equate success. The Wild made the West Finals in their 3rd year on a shoestring budget. Nash-Vegas has had money problems since Day 1 and is competitive every year.
A good GM that can build a competitive team no matter what the budget, especially in this new Cap world, is the prerequisite to success.
By Badda-BING
March 4, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this
Ranallo - Your 1:51 is correct…but don’t you think that if the Thrashers WANTED to discuss the job with Anderson, does anyone actually think for a second Chicago would have denied them?????
Either way…I’ve not seen ANY story that the team did try to discuss it with Anderson and Chicago deny them. So, baseless statement there unless it can be shown otherwise.
Besides, I think Custance even did a peice on Anderson a few months ago in which it seemed Anderson WANTED to coach here.
Also, did not Pat Quinn show an interest?? Is HE under contract with someone???? I don’t know if he would be my #1 choice, but it sure shoots down Serious’s assertion that there was NO qualified coach out there.
I’m still waiting for serious or anyone else to confirm the aligation that McCrimmon turned down an offer to coach due to contract reasons.
IF the team wanted to place him as HEAD coach, they could have done so by naming him “interim” head coach. Instead they chose to name him associate coach.
Big difference.
By Alan
March 4, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this
ranallo10 -
Oilers have only $1.9m cap space left, but sit at 67 pts are are jockeying to give Anaheim a lottery pick.
Fixed that for ya. :)
By ranallo10
March 4, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this
First off, the Spirit spent to the Cap the first two years out of the Cap, and did it get us one playoff win? No.
Yet they remained happy with the incremental progress. That’s not Waddell’s fault that they’re easily appeased.
They also spent to the cap at the trade deadline, meaning they had to mortgage the future to meet that cap (which only impacted their wallet for a few months of the season). They never rode the cap wall from October on (I’m not saying that’s the solution, but that’s what people are getting at when they mention the cap).
Finally, your examples for succeeding teams spending less money than the Thrashers aren’t exactly an impressive group. Would you WANT to be a Phoenix, Columbus, or Chicago fan prior to this season?? All of them have had many seasons of sellar dwelling years, due to a lack of spending. Those last place finishes (and subsequent high draft picks) loaded them for their current runs, and they’re BARELY holding onto playoff aspirations.
That’s not good management in my mind.
Nashville wins but yet loses money as a franchise and has been sold twice in the last year. Tampa the same.
By ThrashDawg
March 4, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this
Where were all of these people hollering fire DW when the team was tied for the division a couple of weeks ago? Where were all these people hollering fire DW when the team was 0-6 and DW turned the team around and made something of this season. Who would have ever thought after starting 0-6 we would even have been thinking playoffs in late February? Why is it DW or anyone elses fault that Hossa did not want to be in Atlanta? Does anybody care what kind of an impact that little drama had on this team? I get tired of reading all the negative crap from so called fans who think they are smarter than a man who has spent his life in the game. If you are fed up, don’t go to the games, don’t write blogs, go support some other team. Oh, but when the Thrashers start winning again and turn the ship around, don’t come back!
By ranallo10
March 4, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this
Badda-BING — If I was a Chicago Wolves owner I’d rather continue my perennial playoff runs and not get rid of our coach. Screw the NHL, the Wolves are a business and in it to make money. Without their coach (who has been stellar since his arrival) how far would they be?? The Thrashers can go to another AHL affiliate and the Wolves would have many potential franchises interested in their services as an affiliate (Buffalo and Florida come to mind since they currently share Rochester…how weird is that?).
Also, most assumptions are that Quinn would be interested in having the GM position here, not the coaching vacancy. If Waddell hired Quinn he’d have hired a possible replacement for his own position. Not many GMs are that stupid unless it’s by design because they plan on retiring or moving on. I don’t think Waddell is planning on going anywhere.
But you’re right, most of this is speculation, which gives credence to neither side of the discussion.
By kracker
March 4, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this
Excellent open letter, RH! I am sure it will find it’s way to the owners’ eyes.
I would have perhaps stressed even more that the place to start is finding the best GM available and offering whatever salary is necessary to hire him. Then urge him to hire the best coaching and scouting personnel that can be found so that these new coaches and scouts will fit the GM’s team philosophy that you mentioned is lacking on the Thrashers. This staff would draft/acquire the new players that, along with the core players that are retained, will round into a team exhibiting that newly established team philosophy.
It all begins with hiring a top notch hockey man and allowing him to make all the on-ice decisions and also consistently providing the funding for him to build a winner.
By truehockeyfan
March 4, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this
It was’t long ago a man from texas was going to buy the thrashers and Hawks. Than a group of men got together to establish the ASG and save hockey in Atlanta. It has not been easy and this franchise has had it’s share of bad breaks. Notwithstanding winning is everything.DW did everything possible to make sure we made the playoffs last year and we did. It is not his fault the team got swept. This year the team started out as bad as it could, so DW stepped up and made a coaching change.Let us not forget that the team went 11 and 4 his first 15 games behind the bench.Let us not forget that at the All-Star break we were a first place team. And, yes Brad McCrimmon was asked to be the coach for the rest of the year the day after the All-Star game. My Question is why did’nt Brad step up like DW did. I am a true fan and still believe that this team can make a run. We must believe in our team, the management, coaches and ownership. If not they will only be sold and moved to another city. We must also understand that Marion Hossa had already made his mind up that He was going free agency no matter what. If I am wrong on this than He will sign with pittsburgh, Surely, they have everything he said he wanted in a team. By the way RED Wing Fans are calling for Kenny Holland’s head in Detroit, they have only 1 win in their last 11 games.
By ranallo10
March 4, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this
By the way RED Wing Fans are calling for Kenny Holland’s head in Detroit, they have only 1 win in their last 11 games.
truehockeyfan — That’s a perfect example of why fans no little about managing a franchise. Ken Holland is far and away the best GM in the NHL. Some might argue his ranking of number one or number two, but there is no denying he’s the creme de la creme.
By Pucksdeep
March 4, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this
Hmm, well done Rawhide, well done indeed.
By ranallo10
March 4, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this
Haha, “no little about managing”. Clearly I KNOW little about spelling.
By Sara
March 4, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this
That’s a perfect example of why fans no little about managing a franchise. Ken Holland is far and away the best GM in the NHL. Some might argue his ranking of number one or number two, but there is no denying he’s the creme de la creme.
Not too mention short memories. They pulled a similar stunt in 2002 with a big slump towards the end of the season. Couple months later they were hoisting the Cup.
By Nikita
March 4, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this
Re: the cap, our problem is partially the cap and partially who we spend it on. The dinosaurs of the NHL bring experience, but they also bring liabilities. Namely they’re comparatively injury-prone, expensive, and in some cases slow. PIT is cheap because its squad is young. So, how many veterans and what kind of veterans do we need? We could probably do with fewer — and I’d suggest we weigh carefully whether we keep Klee and Recchi (both cheap and serviceable), Holik (expensive and serviceable) , Zhitnik (expensive and not currently serviceable), and any middle-aged journeyman that isn’t having a significant impact on the team’s prospects in favor of paying for mediocrity, if we must, on the way to building young players for the future.
Regrding the D-line, I agree with the falconer that we could see significant improvement by cutting and replacing the below-average performers on that line…which, by the way, are Exelby, McCarthy, and Zhitnik. Unfortunately, we’re probably stuck with Zhitnik for now at a very high price. Fortunately, he can play well when he wants to. So I suggest we cut McCarthy and Ex, bust Zhit down to the bench or last line until he feels like playing up to potential or we can cut him loose, and bring in 2-3 new, highly skilled, D-Men.
By truehockeyfan
March 4, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this
P.S. Didn’t we feel so good after that New Jersey game. The way the team came back and than won it in the shootout. Clearly one of the best games in the short history of the Thrashers.The team than goes out and loses 7 straight. 14 possible points and they only get 3. It is time to put the blame where the blame needs to go. On the players. They should be held accountable for the sluggish play they have exhibited in key games.If these guys gave half the effort DW gives they could easily be in first place. They are the ones who should really be blamed for not winning.
By Bob
March 4, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this
They are the ones who should really be blamed for not winning
Yep, the players are not performing. Step back and look at the forest though, the trees are clouding your view…who signed these players and thought they were the pieces of a winning team?
By Brian
March 4, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this
Rawhide - if I had to guess, Anderson will be here at the end of this season. A big name free agent will be acquired. But given that DW has been doing exactly what the ASG told him to do, he is here to stay. If what they told him to do did not work, they will give him another avenue to pursue results…
Didn’t have time to read all entries, but I imagine a lot of folks want him gone as the scapegoat that Ranollo10 was referring to. But you actually hit the nail on the head when you refer to the financial end of things and those decisions. Expect an eventful offseason though…
By ranallo10
March 4, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this
who signed these players and thought they were the pieces of a winning team
Since the ownership group approves all contracts prior to them being signed, technically the owners did…
I’m just saying.
By fanofblueland
March 4, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this
Who signed these players and thought they were the pieces of a winning team?
In my mind (and yes, it is sound), I say these guys sold themselves (while working hard to impress all buyers/draft personnel) as real hockey players capable of being in the NHL and once signed, became a mixed bag of garbage - how are the GM, Coaches and Scouts to trust the reports when these guys time and time again slack off? They get the big contracts and read a positive article or two about themselves, get the big ego going and really show their true colors - not sure how you can blame the GM, Coach and Scouts for the players negligence. They need to step it up a fews notches and keep it there.
By Brendan
March 4, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this
Ranallo, the words “perfect GM.” And Waddell, cannot exist in the same sentence. That’s why I separated them, and in so doing, made my high school English teacher’s head spin.
What I’m saying is this: To put the “belief” part back in the “Believe in Blueland” campaign … something has to be done with the GM position. And no one outside of the IRS and the team, themselves, knows ifffff the Thrashers are actually making money. But I have to believe that whatever money they’re making … that they’d like to make more. Is that unreasonable to assume?
Wouldn’t a soldout arena be more profitable than one that isn’t? This GM’s decision-making has placed it where it is. It is what it is. And even if the Thrashers did somehow manage to win every game from here on out … it’d be winning the weakest division in hockey. And would you bet a paycheck on Atlanta winning a first round series, if it got in? Beeee honest.
Now, I hear you. What’s to say the next GM will sellout Philips Arena, night after night, with nothing but unmitigated success? Nothing. Obviously, there are no guarantees. But there’s a P.R. problem right now with this GM. There’s a “crisis of faith” in his abilities … after eight seasons. Change GM’s, and some of the “doubting Thomases” will give the new guy the benefit of the doubt, and re-up their tickets.
Ranallo, I have to think that more ticket sales reflects more profit for the owners. It can’t be good for them to be losing STH’s or 20-game pack subscribers, etc. I’m not exactly sure where the line of demarcation for ‘chump change’ begins and ends for the ASG. Maybe 180K means absolutely nothing to them? I couldn’t say.
Right now, Ranallo, this team’s got an image problem. The ASG can choose to ignore it. Or they can do something about it. I know what I’m hoping for.
I want to say something else, lest someone “think” I’m a Waddell-hater. Don’t you “think” I wished this team had had greater success under Waddell? Don Waddell is a nice man. He’s a classy guy. He’s an “approachable” guy at meet-n-greets and public events. He’s a kind and honorable man. I wish he were an upper echelon GM. Truly, I do. I wish that his record at the Turin Olympic games weren’t 1-4-1, with no medal round, back in 2006. I wished that his participation in the “Rules Committee” had positioned him to be wayyyy ahead of the curve for Draft Day. I wish that the Thrashers had had 100-point seasons for three years in-a-row. I wished that this team could have finished in the Top Five for PP percentage, and PK percentage. I wish it were among the league leaders for GA. I wish it were among the leaders for even-strength goals. In short, I wish for a lot. For success would have been “befitting” Don Waddell, “the person.” “Don Waddell, the human being.” I’m sorry that it didn’t happen for him. I really am. And I hope he gets another chance in the NHL someday. There, I said it.
By Nikita
March 4, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this
Here’s the thing, though: I think most of our players are capable of playing like a serious team. But they don’t, an why is that? I suspect poor leadership. My husband during the Boston game, said “not scoring on the 5-on-3”? That’s totally unacceptable. If I were their coach I’d have those guys skate until they dropped at practice the next day.” And he’s right. Why did the Thrash look exhausted and slow for most of the season? Why were they allowed to bicker amongst themselves? Why are players who are dialing it in seeing no impact in their ice time? Leadership. We need it desperately.
By truehockeyfan
March 4, 2008 5:42 PM | Link to this
We all have seen thru the forestand looked at the trees. This team has played some great games this year. Maybe we should blame the sportswriters for telling them how good they are. Every time they read how good they are they play bad and go into a funk. One thing for sure. We do love our THRASHERS.I won’t give up if you won’t.
By ranallo10
March 4, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this
Brendan — I’ve met the man once, and have no clue how “kind and honorable” he truly is. I got a handshake and a smile, the same I’ve gotten from Patrick Stefan, JP Vigier (I know, my hand tingled), Garnet Exelby, et ali. I feel as a GM he did Heatley right (in my opinion), and has his fair share of positives and negatives during his tenure.
Is he the greatest GM? Nope. Is he the worst? I’d again say nope. But that’s my opinion.
My point about the ASG is that they’re making money, no matter what you think. It’s a business, they’re business men, they wouldn’t allow for their team to put them in the red every season without making sweeping changes. Their bankroll is the venue, and it’s bringing them money for every concert, Georgia Force game, Hawks game, Thrashers game, circus, etc. They could host a dog-show and STILL make money.
They don’t care (again, in my opinion) about a middling $180k. They only care because they want us to feel AS IF they care, but not because it hurts them financially. These guys are likely making money in other venues (sitting on a board for a larger company, owning or running their own company, mowing lawns, etc). I have many doubts that they care enough about the product of the Thrashers to pay enough attention NOT TO MAKE A STATEMENT LIKE “we want to bring the Stanley Cup to Atlanta”.
Well DUH, of course you WANT to…but you sure as hell aren’t TRYING to.
By bob (other)
March 4, 2008 5:45 PM | Link to this
Well said ThrashDawg.
By Nikita
March 4, 2008 6:15 PM | Link to this
Hey, here’s a crazy idea — why don’t we get Coburn back? That’d be a logical place to start on our D problems.
By Brendan
March 4, 2008 6:24 PM | Link to this
Coburn signed a multi-year deal with Philadelphia, Nikita. The only way to get him back is to trade for him. And how likely is that?
Ranallo, but how much money are they really making? What if they’re only making $180K? That’s hardly being in the “red,” ya know?
By Sage of Bluesland
March 4, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this
A well-written letter, Rawhide…Naturally, I would have liked the opportunity to proof it and ‘add’ some of my comments…
It never ceases to amaze me how the mindless little sheep come out of the woodwork and defend our incompetent GM. The laughably ignorant lambs contine to make excuses for the inexcusable.
(and the mere excuses they’re drumming are, in a word, pathetic)
Oh well, sheep, I’ve tried to show you the error of your thoughts for many years now—yet you sneer, deny, and keep waving your wittle bwue fwag…Donny thanks you for your support!
Other ‘fans’ are more interested in actually WINNING…Some ‘fans’ have spotted that little fraud Waddell a mile away, and warned you that his ‘deliverables’ weren’t coming any time soon…The ‘pipeline’ of talent from the minors never existed due to severe underperformance at the draft…
Best FACT yet: Eight years—One playoff appearance—Zero playoff wins—One GM.
Yep, only in this figurative joke are some wanting to give Donny a lifetime contract…
By kracker
March 4, 2008 7:10 PM | Link to this
Nikita Hey, here’s a crazy idea — why don’t we get Coburn back?
Maybe a new GM will do just that.
By ranallo10
March 4, 2008 8:50 PM | Link to this
I’ve tried to show you the error of your thoughts for many years now—yet you sneer, deny, and keep waving your wittle bwue fwag
The definition of insanity is doing the same thing repeatedly while expecting a different outcome…
Brendan — You’re right, we have no clue how much they’re truly making. In my opinion (I continue to preface with this because I can’t stress it enough), the ASG cares little to none about the Atlanta Thrashers. This season has been evidence as such. With the raised prices in the face of an abyssmal season, the lowered amount of “perks” for dedicated season ticket holders, the amounts of sales which allowed random fans better seats for a cheaper price, etc etc, the ASG is showing me their priorities are not in the interests of the fans, but rather in the interests of squeezing a penny out of the fans they currently have.
If a few playoff games makes them a few extra hundred thousand per game (an underestimate), wouldn’t you think it’d be worth their money to throw an extra couple million in order to solidify those few playoff games, rather than hold onto a few million and not allow the team some financial flexibility to actually field a MORE competitive roster?
A lot more could’ve been done with $2M, and could have POSSIBLY fixed some of the problems the team now has. OR, the team could’ve still floundered. You never know, but the ASG doesn’t seem to have tried (again, in my opinion).
By Brendan
March 4, 2008 9:10 PM | Link to this
Well Ranallo, I have to AGREE with you. It does, most certainly, seem like the ASG isn’t TRYING. Their “plan” appears to be … INACTION. What ELSE is there to say??
And the way they are treating their most valued clients … is … well … ATROCIOUS. It’s egregious. These are fans, I’d bet, who have been with them since 1999, or close to it. They’ve hung with the team … through it all. Three ownership changes … a lockout … busted high-round draft picks … car wrecks, Superstars walking … you name it. And until now, they’d always been willing to give the team another chance.
But the ASG’s “big solution” … is to raise ticket prices? Susan Powter, where are ya, darlin’? ‘Cuz it’s time to STOP THE INSANITY. Seriously, all that’s needed … is to hire someone who makes good decisions. That’s really it. Ya know? It is. Fix the GM position … and the rest takes care of itself. The ASG won’t need to “market” diddly-squat. The fans will come to them. They’ll just have to answer their phones and open their box office. Whooptido. How HARD is that??? It sure is ROUGH, taking ticket sales all day. Isn’t that, kinda, sorta, what any OWNER would really want? I think it is.