Ice Man

By TNT

March 14, 2008 12:36 AM | Link to this

Ain’t it amazing wht these guys can do with a LITTLE EFFORT & HEART. Too bad they waited until now to find this out. Darn good game all the way around. Who would have thought putting Kovy with Chris “Hanson Brother” Thorburn and Captain Hook would hve produced these results. And good scrap by Bolts.

By Alan

March 14, 2008 12:38 AM | Link to this

Great to see the Thrash pull out a win in regulation. Maybe the Kovalchuk-Holik-Thorburn line works after all, since they scored five of the six goals scored tonight. I was very skeptical of that line and what it would produce, but I think overall, Kovalchuk was offensively and defensively responsible tonight. Incredible game for him, and a great game for the Thrashers overall.

By LAC

March 14, 2008 12:54 AM | Link to this

Real good effort, just why is it we get this every dozen games or so ?

Funny to believe…

The last time the Flames won IN Atlanta they were The Atlanta Flames !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Brendan

March 14, 2008 1:04 AM | Link to this

Awesome come from behind win! That’s the “good stuff” that we fans crave, but don’t get, with any kind of consistency, from this team. It was great that Kovy got a “trick” tonight. But nobody is going to catch Ovechkin, who still has some shot at 70 goals. Without any playoffs for the Thrashers, and without the Rocket Richard Goals Scoring Trophy, I’d say Kovalchuk won’t be able to win the Hart Trophy. Which is really a shame. Because the purpose of that trophy is to identify the player who means the most to his team. If there’s a player on another team who is more valuable to it, than Ilya is to the Thrashers, I want to know who it is.

By Nix

March 14, 2008 1:11 AM | Link to this

It was great meeting you too, Rawhide!

After the first 20 minutes, this game was incredible. (Ok, even in the first 20 there were moments that gave me hope.) I loved seeing the boys in blue skating hard, hitting hard and fighting for the puck. And it was nice to see so much of them down my end of the rink in the 1st and 3rd periods for a change. In a lot of the postgame interviews they talked about how they made an effort to play for each other and the team. I wish they made that effort every night, but was glad I was there to see it tonight.

I must say, it was weird seeing the Flames in Atlanta for the first time since I was 4. A small part of me kept feeling like I should be rooting for them, even though they had the wrong letter on their sweaters.

By Pucksdeep

March 14, 2008 1:50 AM | Link to this

I don’t even know what to say. Clearly this team can compete, when they string together ALL the essential components. Why they don’t CHOOSE to do that on a consistent basis, we’ll never know. This is exactly what is so frustrating about the team.

Tonight’s effort was outstanding (outside of the 1st 20) and hopefully a sign of things to come, next season of course, from our Thrashers.

Congrats to Kovy, and Brendan you are spot on with your thoughts on him and his value to HIS team. It is indeed a shame.

Now, let’s see who shows up to play Washington. I’m awfully curious whether it’ll be the imposters we saw tonight or the Thrashers we’ve grown to expect here lately.

By Tim

March 14, 2008 4:17 AM | Link to this

Brenden,I have a answer for you. there is another legitimate MVP other then Kovalchuk and his name is Alexander Ovechkin. Without AO surge, well we whould been ahead of tthe Capitals. :)

By trlblzr

March 14, 2008 7:03 AM | Link to this

somebody call the Detroit PD, cause I think the Red Wings had our Thrash locked up and held hostage in the basement of their arena… I sure haven’t seen them much, if at all, since then!

By j nes

March 14, 2008 7:19 AM | Link to this

I think last night’s effort had a lot to do with addition by subtraction. Take out the weak links of Zhitnik and White and you have a stronger chain. I know those guys have been out of lineup in some of the recent losses too, but I just can’t help thinking we would see more games like last night’s without them. White will almost certainly be back next year, but lets all pray he gets bumped to the third line. Sorry Slater.

By Russian

March 14, 2008 8:35 AM | Link to this

It was good game. After 0:3 I was thinking to move my a* at home, because nothing was intersting. BUT….. Kovy scored, then Perrin moved and shooted puck to the net and Army got jucy rebond from Cujo. After that I said to myself: “Hell yeap, something is going to happend!!!” And BOOM, PP goal by Kovy was BEATIFULLLLLL….. Thorburn scored another goal (unassistent) and last one was Bobby. Damn, what is a great pass by Kovy.

Now, anybody tells me WHY we could not paly like that at least 45 games of Season???? What is f*** happend with team???? Was yesturday just SHOW UP??? :-(

By GaVaHokie

March 14, 2008 8:55 AM | Link to this

I just look forward to the summer when we can clean house… get rid of some of these locker room cancers (10 players according to Waddell “who tend to go negative”) and we can play like this more often.

Zhitnik another healthy scratch.

By Bob

March 14, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this

I think last night’s effort had a lot to do with addition by subtraction. Take out the weak links of Zhitnik and White and you have a stronger chain.

Good point. And the guys stepped up and “played for each other” and were definitely more physical. Hmm, makes you wonder if two of the rotten eggs were in the press box last night?

Great to see them step up and play hard. Good job, boys.

By Archie

March 14, 2008 9:14 AM | Link to this

After watching the Kovy-Holik-Thorburn line last night, it got me thinking… we’ve all been screaming about Kovy not having a playmaking center on his line, but maybe what he needs more than that is a big bruising power forward to push people around near the crease. With the amount of perimeter shots that he takes, and the number of rebounds generated, it would work wonders to have a bowling ball power forward getting in the goalies way, clearing out defensemen and knocking home the rebounds. I know that Cam Neely’s don’t just grow on trees, but somebody that plays that style would do well on a line with Kovy. Thorburn played his best game all season last night, Holik too. I just can’t help but think that the style those two play is suits Kovalchuk well.

By GaVaHokie

March 14, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this

Archie… that’s why we were successful with Tkachuk last year during the stretch run. And that’s what they were hoping to replicate with Holik this year… didn’t work right off the bat at the beginning of the year and they went away from it.

But it’s easier to hit a slow moving target coming up the middle than one that’s trying to dance all over the place like… Perrin, White, Slater, Dupuis, Kozlov, Little, Sterling… see the trend? We got too many little “scrappy” guys who can’t stand in one place long enough to make simple effective plays.

Waddell went overboard with the speedster, puck “dangler” types… I think he’ll correct it this summer.

Like Levenson said, we’re only a few pieces away. Much eaiser to sub-out a few players than to start from scratch.

By Russian

March 14, 2008 9:34 AM | Link to this

I am agree that Kovy-Holik-Thorburn line was work Great at last night. But it was only one night, they have to play together today and if they make some damages on Ovy team I will say that chemistry may be work next season. But right now is too earlier to say anything. We could not make dissision for one game. I want to see what they can do in Washington today. :-)

By J(Z)

March 14, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this

I never realized how FAST Thorburn was. That goal was amazing. He outskated the defender and managed even get around him and fake out CuJold. Maybe add him to the list shootout guys!

Even though I am a all for Operation Believe in Tankland…I just can’t root AGAINST this team. Great game last night. No clue why we can’t stay consistant though. Whoever the coach is next year needs to DEMAND games like this EVERY night out. Anything less should be unacceptable.

And as much as I wish it weren’t true, Kovy is not the MVP of this season. If nothing else, check our record in games that he missed. 3-0-1??? I think? Ovechkin SHOULD be the HART winner, but if the Craps don’t make the playoffs, it’ll be tough. Wouldn’t be surprised at all if Iginla gets it.

By Tony C.

March 14, 2008 9:57 AM | Link to this

Nice to meet you as well RH-that just capped off a great night.

My favorite moment was seeing #17 knock Phaneuf on his can back-checking in the 2nd. Also got to see that wicked PP goal up close-it’s amazing anyone stops #17’s one-timers.

Special thanks to whoever sits in 111 and decided not to go last night-5 rows from the glass for $30 sweet

By fes

March 14, 2008 10:04 AM | Link to this

A strong case can be made for Brodeur too. Without him, the Devils would be no where near the top of the East.

Last night was a great showing by the boys in blue. Let’s hope they do it again tonight and Kovy trims Ovechkin’s lead. It’s not completely out of his reach yet. Afterall, Ovie’s lead was miniscule until he went on his streak of hat tricks.

By GaVaHokie

March 14, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this

J(Z)… Ovechkin if the Caps make it, Malkin or Iginla if they don’t… that’s my vote.

I think Kovy and Zetterberg are out of the race.

I did say Backstrom for the Calder at the beginning of the year! Of course I also said it would be a close race between him and Sterling. :(

By timthebrave

March 14, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this

So if you play hard and physical and you don’t get outshot by 20 shots you have a chance to win. Amazing…. I thought the point of hockey in Atlanta was to get pushed around and beaten into submision…That was a great entertaining game. Tell Levenson if he can get the team to play like that it will fill up seats and people won’t complain about ticket prices going up so much.

By J(Z)

March 14, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this

Yeah, forgot about Malkin, good call.

Anyone notice in the first period, someone has a sign in the front row in the corner “These seats are for sale because of Waddell”???? The sign was gone after the first period, I wonder if someone made them take it down?

I was in section 210 in front of a group of OBNOXIOUS, screaming 8 year old girls. My ears are still bleeding and ringing. I feel bad for whoever has season tickets there!

By Nikita

March 14, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this

I’m not at all surprised that those lines worked better than the previous lines.

Koz/Recchs/Little — Kozlov isn’t a physical player, and Recchi is tiny. Little working with those two might be a very good idea, because it’s a decent combination of skill and power, and the old skoolers can help him play a better mental game. I think Little will mature very nicely, and that line will become more effective.

Koz/Thorburn/Holik — great idea. Thorburn is still a kid. Like Christensen, his capabilities aren’t entirely clear, because he’s had the bad fortune to be surplus talent for some time now. But he can open up space, physically intimidate people, outflank people, and play good two-way hockey. His fundamentals are solid. And then there’s the passing, the shooting, the hands, the mind — all of which are pretty good. He’s very nimble for his size, and is developing more finesse. We’ve been playing him as 4th tier, but I think he could mature up to 2nd or even 1st. Holik is solid when he wants to be and that’s what we saw last night. Physical, mentally tough, awesome on the face-off. And Kovy is not 100%, but he’s close — he’s been doing a lot of enforcing and physically pushing this season, which he shouldn’t be required to do. So placing him with two people who relish that type of play and can set him up to be the slapshot badass he is is very smart.

As to everybody else…I was sad to see bad D play last night, as usual. Saddest for Toby Enstrom, who touched off two of Calgary’s 4 goals by making bad passes or being forced into a turnover. His play in general was good, but he had some bad mistakes. Kiwi really played well — well, well for Kiwi. There was an unnecessary penalty. Mac was his usual stupid self, so we saw good hits juxtaposed with a lot of out-of-position play. Klee and Ex were solid (surprisingly, for Ex). And Havelid continued to be gold.

2nd line continued to work well. We actually scored on the power play! whee! Very few penalties. Nice fight by Boulton. All in all, it was great.

On White…I don’t know where he’ll fit in, but I’m sure someone’s going to try to figure it out given how much he costs. My problem is that we have so many forwards, we’re committed to a lot of them, and we have pretty specific needs — we also have a bunch of very young forwards who with the right coaching could become top-notch players. So where does White fit? Hmmm. He’s not particularly physical, but he’s solidish as a center and is a two-way player. Maybe the Koz/Recchi line?

So…who do you think stays and goes this summer? I’m ok with not obtaining a top center, though of course I think it would be an enhancement. MUST have at least 2 D-men, and I’m guessing we’re only bringing up 1-2, one or both of which would be 2nd tier. So we need to acquire 1-2 more. Ideally we’d only have Enstrom, Havelid, and Klee from the current roster, with Ex as a 7th.

By GaVaHokie

March 14, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this

Nikita… I’d like two top line RW’s.

I’d like to see what Brian Rolston is asking for (UFA) and maybe put a qualifying offer out to Steve Bernier (RFA).

Michael Ryder… still available too!

Big money and trades need to go to Defense.

By R. Stroz

March 14, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this

J(Z) - It could have been worse, if you were sitting in Section 216, you would have had to listen to me with the bullhorn.

Rawhide said he could hear me a couple of sections over.

LETS GO THRASHERS

By kracker

March 14, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this

RH Perhaps you can have Craig’s AJC Thrashers’ story for today changed to say It’s been 28 years since the Flames left Atlanta for Calgary… instead of the 18 it now says. (Unless it makes me 10 years younger, then just leave it be.)

By Rawhide

March 14, 2008 11:35 AM | Link to this

RStroz - I could have heard you two COUNTIES over! LOL!

Kracker - let’s just let him keep it that way, per your 10 years younger comment.

By Bob

March 14, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this

Anyone notice in the first period, someone has a sign in the front row in the corner “These seats are for sale because of Waddell”???? The sign was gone after the first period, I wonder if someone made them take it down?

We saw that. The guys who had it up left it there at the end of the first when they went up to eat/drink/whatever, and they came in and confiscated the sign before they got back. They didn’t look too happy. Those are front row seats in the club section, have to be a pretty penny for those.

By Brendan

March 14, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this

Tim, I think you’re right. Ovechkin is very, very important to his team. No doubt about that. And yes, Iginla is very important to his team, as well. What do you guys make of Heatley’s chances at winning the Hart Trophy? If Ottawa makes a move here and gets the #1 seed, largely in part to Heatley’s efforts, it could get very interesting. Although the Hart Trophy is a decision made based on regular-season play, it’s never announced until the playoffs are over. And I’ve long since believed that playoff results do influence the voting, despite the claims that the voting took place BEFORE the playoffs started. Yeah, whatever.

By Midfield

March 14, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this

Both Kovy and Holik are excellent set-up passers, actually. The Holik goal was a mirror image of Kovy’s goal against Tampa set up by non-other than Holik on a no-look back-hand from the opposite wing. GaVaHokie is right: the game is simple enough. Just skating, finishing checks, working the boards and keeping heads up shift in - shift out does amazing things for this bunch of underachievers. Problem is, who or what will keep them from taking another 9 nights off?

Oh, and Thornburn did not do particularly well on his shoot-out attempt against - I think it was NJ. He could not even get his back-hand shot off and just let the puck roll away. Of course, anybody can blow it once in a while.

By Thrasher Ryan

March 14, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

Rawhide—I did not see you at the game last night, maybe next time. I was wearing my old Atlanta Flames Sweater.

It was funny, I actually felt really weird when the Thrash came back and won it. I did not think it was capable of happening.

Games like that are fun for me… I win either way!

KL got lucky his teammates bailed him out.

Bryan Little is getting better and better every game. Hope he goes on a tear here soon!

GO BLUE!!!

By Rawhide

March 14, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

TR - yeah…you and about 5,000 others were wearing old Flames jerseys…I was in 116 row V…maybe next time, my friend!

As for KL, I think it was the opposite of what normally happens. Most of the time, a goalie will stand on his head in the first period or so, giving his team enough time to get their act together. Then, the offense will take inspiration from it and kick it up a notch.

Last night, after falling behind 3-0, the offense kicked it in gear and Kari seemed to elevate his game from it. Almost as if he said to himself, “OK, if they are going to skate their a$$es off, I’m gonna get it together here”.

We basically outscored them 6-1 for the last 36 minutes or so.

By Alan

March 14, 2008 1:06 PM | Link to this

Rawhide - I think, to be quite honest, Kari got sick of the lackluster offensive efforts played out in front of him. So I think he was going to just throw the game. Let’s face it, it’s not normal for Kari to give up four goals on less than 20 shots. When the offense decided they were actually going to score some goals, Kari decided to actually stop the pucks. It showed in the third period.

Just my take on it. I wouldn’t blame Kari in the least for throwing the game to the offense and telling them to win it for a change.

By Rawhide

March 14, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this

Alan - At least subconsciously that makes sense.

Momemtum is a big part of the game…you can feel it sometimes…and I think Kari fed off of it after those two quick goals in the second and then after Kovy got us back to a goal going into the second break.

By Midfield

March 14, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this

About Lehtonen, it’s been a long time coming. I am still pretty p** about his let-down of the team momentum in Boston a few months ago, when the team rallied from behind only to see him squander the whole effort on a flimsy flip from the blue line that he did not even bother to challenge.

By ThrashDawg

March 14, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

Man it sure is sweet to read these boards when the Thrashers win!!

By lilibeter

March 14, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this

I was both impressed and disappointed by the effort that the Thrashers displayed last night. Impressed because, although I only started watching last night’s game about half-way into the 2nd, the guys really seemed to be putting their whole hearts into their level of play last night. As a matter of fact, they spent so much time in the offensive zone that I was even looking up to be sure that we weren’t on the Power Play at some points. I loved seeing the hustle that was going on out there last night.

And the Shots On Goal last night…WOW! Ever since I began learning about the game of hockey (just over a year now), I have noticed how much action is created when the puck is put on goal. This year, however, I have been baffled by the fact that the Thrashers seem to be unwilling to shoot the puck unless they have a “seemingly perfect” shot lined up. The teams we’ve played against seem to shoot the puck whenever they think they can get it somewhere near the net and, as a result, get scoring opportunity after scoring opportunity off of the loose rebounds. I was so excited to watch the Thrashers actually shooting the puck last night and even more excited to see the rebounds popping loose for lovely scoring opportunities.

Another thing that I think added to the great effort last night was the lack of time that the Thrashers spent in the Penalty Box. It suddenly hit me about 10 minutes into the 3rd that the Thrashers weren’t getting called for silly little, preventable penalties. With the physicality and the hitting going on out there, I think the guys really put in a great effort to keep it clean and stay out of the penalty box and on the ice.

So, why was I disappointed? Very simply because I have so rarely seen such a good, solid effort put forth by our Boys in Blue. I have had the chance to attend quite a few games this year, and although there have been moments of brilliance in many games, it has been rare that the guys have managed to prolong those moments into effective, game-winning efforts. Last night was a full-fledged effort, and it disappointed me to know that the ability has been there all along - it has seemingly been the desire to actually play that hard as a unit that has been missing for much of this season.

Just one more thought on Thorburn…I asked my boyfriend/resident hockey encyclopedia a couple of weeks ago about why Thorburn didn’t seem to be out on the ice as much as some of the other guys because he is always out there hustling, always trying to make something happen, rarely missing his defensive assignments, and always looking to get physical. I was surprised to hear the answer that Thorburn was a 4th line player. When I pay attention to his playing, he has always come across as such a solid player. I was so pleased to see him stepping up and being such a big part of the effort last night. He’s a big, strong guy, and he always seems to get out there and actually play like he is a big, strong guy. Great job, Thor! Great job, Thrashers!

As for tonight? As much as I enjoy watching AOs childlike delight with the game, I am really hoping that the Thrashers I saw last night are the ones who show up to play tonight…

By ranallo10

March 14, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this

Alan — Having played the goalie position in a team sport, I definitely agree with your post. As the goalie you get this feeling of being let down every time you make a great save but your defense lets you down. Then when you’re making your saves, playing the best you can, and your offense never scores…well yeah, you tend to just give up on some shots.

By Rawhide

March 14, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this

lilibeter - How awesome to see you post here!!!! You and ‘ol what’s-his-face missed a good one last night! :o)

By ranallo10

March 14, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

lilibeter — To support your observation about the Thrashers and their scoring opportunities compared to the league…the Thrashers are ranked 28th in the league in shots, but are ranked 9th in the league in shooting percentage.

Defensively they’re 1st in the league for shots against (meaning they give up the most), and 10th in the league for shooting percentage against.

By Nikita

March 14, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this

Welcome, lilibeter!

I was glad to see Thor out there, as well. I have also heard the “he’s a 4th-line guy” comment, but it’s also notable that he is still pretty young and has been surplus talent on each of his teams. I think he could mature into a very solid player, and we need more height and weight on the upper lines.

By Stats

March 14, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this

RH - I cannot find the date of the post (perhaps you can), but a few weeks back we pondered “When was the last time that the Thrashers bailed out KL and won a game 5-4 or 6-5?”

The answer I found was like January of 2007.

They did it last night.

By Andrew

March 14, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this

Difference in the game: ZERO MINOR PENALTIES! That was not the Thrashers I’m used to seeing last night. Their discipline made me very happy.

By Brendan

March 14, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this

Thorburn was a +3, while Enstrom and Armstrong were -3. Kristian Huselius did get a point for Calgary last night. His numbers are “decent” on the year.

Take a look at our plus-minus standings. Exelby is now -22, barely ahead of McCarthy.

By Alan

March 14, 2008 5:29 PM | Link to this

Andrew - Kiwi took a minor for holding in the second period. Otherwise, we played a great and relatively penalty-free game there.

By scott

March 14, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this

I posted to the last blog how great it was to see the the effort and the physical play last night. Night’s like that are why I’m a hockey fan.

I have not seen it mentioned, sorry if I missed it, but how about McCarthy’s extra effort to get the puck out of the zone and get it to Kovy on the Holik goal? Sure he got a bit lucky that it ended up on Kovy’s stick, but it was a great effort just the same. I hope we see more of that type of effort from everyone. Mac got a well deserved helper on the goal.

By R. Stroz

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

Newest Email to Season Ticket Holders

By PJ

March 14, 2008 7:50 PM | Link to this

RStroz Thanks for posting it. So are you re-upping your tickets now? LOL

The boys look pretty good tonight. Kozzy,…. what a nice surprise. I missed most of the game last night (parental duties) but it sounds like I missed a good one. Do you record the games? Does anyone?

By Thrasher Ryan

March 14, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

It’s 1-1 after 1. That rhymes. Slava Kozlov with the lone Atlanta tally.

Exelby is hitting people. The bloggers must have made him mad…

GO BLUE!!!

By Russian

March 14, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this

No People it is a same s** happend all season. team are going to vacation already. 1:3 After second. Washington everywhere….. on ice. I did not see Thrasher touch a Puck.

By R. Stroz

March 14, 2008 8:50 PM | Link to this

How can ASG management guarantee this quote:

“You have my word that we will greatly reduce the amount of discounted ticket offers AND the offers that we do roll out will not be available in the areas where our season ticket holders sit. In an effort to combat the discounted tickets we added two new benefits for our season ticket holders; free tickets for select games and the ability to upgrade to more expensive seats for free to select games.”

if discounted tickets are contingent on this quote:

“As I stated at the Town Hall meeting, all NHL teams need to maintain a certain level of tickets sold and revenue growth or we lose a significant percentage of our revenue sharing.”

Has the ASG turned into fortune tellers and already know total tickets sales for next year?

Sounds like more ASG BS to me.

By Thrasher Ryan

March 14, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this

3-1 Crapitals after 2.

Being outshot BAD! How many shots do we have? 5?

Like I have said many times before, Exelby—McCarthy D-pair is the only one that works for both of them. It’s not much, but it works.

KL is getting hung out to dry. Washington has 30+ shots so far.

This is the team Kovalchuk likes to destroy. Would like to see him rack up a hat trick in the 3rd. If they shoot.

GO BLUE!!!

By PJ

March 14, 2008 9:10 PM | Link to this

Thrasher Ryan Gotta love your optimism….Woo-Hoo!!! We’re up to 9 shots now…

By Bill Clinton

March 14, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this

Hey ya’ll…didja hear that Bruce Levenson guy say something aout how he thought the Thrashers were moving in the right direction??

Ha ha…oh, boy! I guess it all depends on the way your define “right direction”, isn’t it?

Oh…the way this team is playin’ tonight for some odd reason reminds me of Monica Lewinski…ha ha!

By home of bad hockey

March 14, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this

after reading the interview with Levenson, he is perfect for this team—incapable just like most of the players DW chose. Screw this organization.

I’m glad Bruce didn’t have to travel far from home tonight (vs.Washington) to see the DW Train Wreck. How do you only have 6 shots on goal after two periods??? (That’s all I had the stomach for).

Kovy, I wish you luck in your new city once your are UFA. I know you don’t want to spend your career surrounded by minor leaguers—players, GM and owners.

By Thrasherbob

March 14, 2008 9:38 PM | Link to this

Hey Bill Clinton - I gues you could say the Thrashers “blew” the lead.

By Brendan

March 14, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this

Tobias Enstrom was a -3. That makes him -7 on the season. In December, he was +10, and the team leader. So, I’ll buy into the argument that says he’s wearing down. But, at the same time, the whole team’s plus-minus has been below the Mendoza line for quite a while.

Did anyone catch the final shots on goal? It’s nights like this where Kari and Moose must fight the thoughts of bolting this Summer for another team.

See, this is what I mean about consistency. It’s hardly something new. We’ll look to games vs. Calgary, and NJ, Ottawa, and Detroit … as highlights of the season. But, you just knew they couldn’t sustain it.

Stop. Beee honest. Would you have put a paycheck on a Thrasher win tonight? Put your hand down. You wouldn’t have done that, even if it hadn’t been the “back end” of a back-to-back. Why not?? Because the team cannot sustain a high-level of play. And there it is. When is Waddell getting that contract extension? They should announce it soon.

Russ, are the Thrashers mathematically eliminated now, with this four-point swing to the Caps?

By Thrasher Ryan

March 14, 2008 9:45 PM | Link to this

Washington 4, Atlanta 1, Final.

Operation Stamkos is ON! Thrash are out for playoffs mathwise(my count).

GO BLUE!!!

By stendec

March 14, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this

Flushers continue to Falcon (tank) season! The CS can score six goals (count ‘em, six) against the Flames but only one against an inferior Capital ragtag group? Good old Letemin gave up his customary four goals including one to Achoo plus a shorthander. This untalented piece of crapola needs to be shipped back to Finland. As if Finland would have his sorry A++! Another mail-in effort. Atlanta sports followers can be D++N proud! Flushers laughingstock of NHL, Falcons ongoing NFL joke and Hawks eternally pathetic in NBA. Only Braves worth half a D++N at so-called professional level. Would like to see all new faces next season. That includes Ilya Kovalchuk who I finally realize is nothing more than an overrated Russian prima donna (no offense Russian, I like your posts). Like Falcons, NONE of these hopeless ball-less quitters are worth retaining! GO FLAMES!

By rj

March 14, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this

I guess the physical play against Calgary was an aberration. Thankfully, I have Center Ice !!!!

By Thrasher Ryan

March 14, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this

And I’m looking forward to a New Head Coach and a New GM to work this draft well and get the right guys in here via Free Agency this summer to bring the Playoffs back to ATL.

By FormerIslesFan

March 14, 2008 10:00 PM | Link to this

RH

On your comment to lilibeter referring to “ol’ whats-his-face”…

Hey now!! I resemble that remark!

By bob (other)

March 14, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this

DW is not going anywhere folks. Deal with it. The posts to get rid of him are getting old. Decision to stay has been made.

By R. Stroz

March 14, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this

bob (other) - Do you work for, or have you worked for, the ASG?

By Nikita

March 14, 2008 11:02 PM | Link to this

Seriously, what is wrong with Slava Kozlov? He looks like he’s into junk or something…

By ranallo10

March 14, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this

On the bright side, if they keep playing like this the lottery pick isn’t in jeopardy…

By pathetic hockey

March 15, 2008 1:24 AM | Link to this

outshot 13-2 in the first. ya we are headed in the right direction.

By Buzzard

March 15, 2008 8:22 AM | Link to this

The beat down the Thrash took against the Caps last night is why you can not get excited about one good game. The combined shot total was consistant with most of the season. Virtually no defense or offense. The boys are mailing it in and getting tee times now that they are mathmatically eliminated. There were no bright spots last night.

By Bob

March 15, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this

Gee, I’m glad Bruce told me we’re pretty close to where we need to be, I’d hate to see what the score and shot totals would’ve been last night if we were really, really bad with tons of holes in the lineup and little to no help coming from the minors.

Other bob is a plant.

By Michael B. Shapiro

March 15, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this

Tiller

Sorry to say that the guys who stole our uniforms for the last 35 minutes of the Calgary game returned them to the regular team for the Crapitols game.

Two (2) stinking shots in the first period? Zero (yes, that’s a zero) shots on goal across four separate powerplays (yes, one was abbreviated).

These guys stunk up the ice worse than a Deadwings octopus. Yeesh.

No heart, no hitting, no control of the puck. Same old dump and chase crap, or worse, just get the puck and chuck it somewhere up ice…usually to a Crapitol who then brought it back into our zone for a sustained rush. Un-good.

The only good news was that Zhitnik has now officially earned enough pine up his a$$ in the press box to need a proctologist to remove the splinters. Good riddance to his slow, lazy and fat butt. D-Wad, keep Zhitnik off the ice, it’s the one good move you’ve made all season.

Levenson, stop smoking crack, get us a new GM who knows how to build a team with strong defense, puck handling offense (not just fast, but able to move and shoot the freakin’ puck) and a coach who knows how to coach at the highest professional level of hockey.

This STH (from day one) is finding it very hard to see one reason why I should shell out even more money to watch crappy players, crappy play, run by crappy administration and owners.

Go operation Stamkos!

Peace out.

By Brendan

March 15, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this

Michael Shapiro, the ASG doesn’t care about us. We’re not Home Depot, Coca-Cola, or season ticket holders along the glass. Therefore, our opinions don’t count, for them.

I got “that message” loud and clear. But apparently, according to Other Bob, the ASG’s STH renewals for the high dollar sections of the arena, the ones that matter are just humming along, swimmingly.

Here, idiot me, thought that “every fan” mattered. And for the record, I’ve sat in almost every section of Philips Arena. And I’ve found the loudest, most rauchous, most “die-hard, hardcore” fans … to be in the 300’s and 400’s. When I am in the 300’s, looking down, I see lots and lots and lots of empty, but sold seats. An empty seat never made any noise. Those executive suites … never make any noise. And empty seats and silent arenas are just the image that the ASG wants. And they’re getting it. It makes “perfect sense” for a business plan. Once the tickets are sold, who cares what happens after that? Right??

I don’t any bloggers need to feel guilty about not renewing STH. The ASG is doing just fine, per Other Bob. And doesn’t need your money. And, quite possibly, it doesn’t want it.

By NASCAR Dave

March 15, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this

WELL WHAT DO YOU KNOW???

TRASHERS are back. Are you surprised? I’M NOT.

PATHETIC, GUTLESS WIMPS! PATHETIC, LAUGHABLE COACHING. AND A GM WITHOUT A DAMN CLUE!

OUTSHOT! OUTHIT! OUTSKATED! OUTHUSSLED! OUTCOACHED! OUTCONDITIONED! EVERY DAMN NIGHT!!!!!!

And then the pathetic owners say “WE ARE MAKING PROGRESS”?????????

WTF!!! Have they been smoking crack? Or better yet, HAVE THEY EVEN WATCHED A DAMN GAME ALL SEASON??? WE SUCK A$$!!! AND IT’S WADDELL’S DAMN FAULT!

So what is the excuse this time? Too tired from a damn plane ride to Maryland? HOW FRICKIN PATHETIC!

EVERY PROBLEM = WADDELL’S FAULT.

WAY IN OVER HIS HEAD. TIME TO PULL THE PLUG ON HIS PATHETIC ATTEMPT AS AN NHL GM.

ASG ARE COMPLETE DOUCHEBAGS, BUT WE ALREADY KNEW THAT!

ASG MUST Fire Waddell! Enough is enough! WE CANNOT AND WILL NOT WAIT AROUND FOR ANOTHER 5 YEAR PLAN!

After 9 years, instead of moving forward, this franchise is moving backwards! ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!

Clean the damn house already!

TRUE FANS WILL BOYCOTT THE TEAM UNTIL THE PROPER CHANGES ARE MADE.

Absoulutely no excuse for this! You are an embarrassment to the City of Atlanta AND the NHL!

Was the tornado at Philips a SIGN???

By NASCAR Dave

March 15, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this

WELL WHAT DO YOU KNOW???

TRASHERS are back. Are you surprised? I’M NOT.

PATHETIC, GUTLESS WIMPS! PATHETIC, LAUGHABLE COACHING. AND A GM WITHOUT A DAMN CLUE!

OUTSHOT! OUTHIT! OUTSKATED! OUTHUSSLED! OUTCOACHED! OUTCONDITIONED! EVERY DAMN NIGHT!!!!!!

And then the pathetic owners say “WE ARE MAKING PROGRESS”?????????

WTF!!! Have they been smoking crack? Or better yet, HAVE THEY EVEN WATCHED A DAMN GAME ALL SEASON??? WE SUCK A$$!!! AND IT’S WADDELL’S DAMN FAULT!

So what is the excuse this time? Too tired from a damn plane ride to Maryland? HOW FRICKIN PATHETIC!

EVERY PROBLEM = WADDELL’S FAULT.

WAY IN OVER HIS HEAD. TIME TO PULL THE PLUG ON HIS PATHETIC ATTEMPT AS AN NHL GM.

ASG ARE COMPLETE DOUCHEBAGS, BUT WE ALREADY KNEW THAT!

ASG MUST Fire Waddell! Enough is enough! WE CANNOT AND WILL NOT WAIT AROUND FOR ANOTHER 5 YEAR PLAN!

After 9 years, instead of moving forward, this franchise is moving backwards! ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!

Clean the damn house already!

TRUE FANS WILL BOYCOTT THE TEAM UNTIL THE PROPER CHANGES ARE MADE.

Absoulutely no excuse for this! You are an embarrassment to the City of Atlanta AND the NHL!

By Brendan

March 15, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

To reinforce just how little the ASG cares about the casual, single-game seat ticket holders … the logo faces the luxury suites side of the arena. What could be more “elitist” than that.

The “peasants” sit on the other side. Gee, I can’t wait for hockey to have priced out all the “blue collar” fans, leaving only the latte-sipping, tennis-going fans left. That should elevate the “noise level” at Philips Arena. What does the sound of “white gloves” lightly tapping each other really sound like? I guess we’ll know, shortly.

By bob (other)

March 15, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

Brendan, just another irrational, out of context rant. Continues to make my point.

By bob (other)

March 15, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this

Brendan, another example of your incorrect assessments…. the logo faces that side of the arena because that is the side broadcasts are generated from, both TV and radio.

The conclusion that is has something to do with class warfare is ridiculous.

If you had a business, would you want a customer that spends 3 or 4 times more than another and would you perhaps place a greater value on that type of customer’s business?

If you wouldn’t, I’d suggest you enroll in business school.

By Brendan

March 15, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this

Keep trying to discredit me. One day, perhaps you’ll get there. And I don’t dispute your economic theories of profitability.

In my economic plan, I vote with my wallet. I’m out of options to effect change, for a team I’ve supported since 1999, that is floundering for no other reason than “poor decision-making.” Not that the ASG gives a rip about my financial contributions to their organ-I-zation. They don’t care about me. That’s crystal clear. No need to remind me.

By bob (other)

March 15, 2008 6:17 PM | Link to this

Brendan, not trying to discredit you. Just trying to serve as a rational voice. I too vote with my wallet and I don’t understand why you think ASG doesn’t care, because they do, but there is a big distinction. You are not an owner, but rather a customer, one of many. The fact is we have 15-16,000 customers that continue to “vote” for this franchise. That is a decent core and will expand as management continues to build the franchise’s long term success.

Our owners and management are well qualified and frankly, it would be best if people do not jump ship. In my opinion, how could those every be true fans.

By Alan

March 15, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this

In my opinion, how could those every be true fans.

Excellent point.

To me, those who refuse to support a franchise are fair-weather fans. You’re only willing to pay for a winning franchise, not for the privilege of seeing hockey period. Atlanta is full of people like this.

When the Braves were winning games like crazy, you couldn’t get tickets from scalpers - they were watching the games, too. But they’ve been mediocre recently, and thusly unable to sell out their games.

Fair-weather fans like the team when they’re winning. Everyone likes a winning team. But what sets those who will buy tickets for any game and the fair-weather types apart, is that we will support the team through thick and thin. The others, they just want the thick. When there’s no winning, they clamour to fire the coach, GM, sell the team, or come up with conspiracy theories.

Nice try, guys. Just admit you’re the fair-weather type and let’s stop beating around the bush here.

By bob (other)

March 15, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this

Alan, well said. Couldn’t agree more.

By Nikita

March 15, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this

I love the Thrashers, period. I’d like for them to win, but I will show up regardless as much as I can anyway — for one thing, I think the support of the crowd has an effect on whether or not they win. I must admit, though, that to some extent I go see them as much for their opponents as for them — I don’t care to see them playing the Jamaican bobsled team, because a) they play to the level of the opposition and b) if I want to see poor passing and sloppy play, I’ll go see one of the minor or college teams.

By Nix

March 15, 2008 11:47 PM | Link to this

Seriously? STHs that don’t renew are fair weather fans and those that do are corporate minions/elitist snobs?

Come on, guys. From what I’m reading, most of the people not renewing aren’t fair weather fans. They’re just frustrated with the direction the ownership/management is taking the team and feel like they’re not being listened to and think the only way to be heard is to refuse to economically support the ownership/management. That doesn’t mean they don’t support the team - it means that they’re willing to forgo seeing their team play in person in the hopes that they’re absence will make a point with the ASG. And seriously - no matter how awesome your TV is, watching hockey from your easy chair has nothing on being there in the arena. So whether or not refusing to renew will be effective doesn’t diminish their fandom.

And people who are renewing aren’t all corporate minions or elitist snobs. They just think the best way to support the team is to be there, in the arena, cheering on the team, letting the ASG and the NHL know that there are people who are passionate about hockey/the Thrashers here in Atlanta. They’re just supporting the team in the way that makes the most sense to them.

Obviously, everyone who’s been posting cares deeply about hockey and desparately wants to see the Thrashers succeed on the ice. Having different views on how to achieve the goal of getting a Stanley Cup to Atlanta doesn’t make either group the anti-Christ, so take it down a notch, already.

By NASCAR Dave

March 16, 2008 1:32 AM | Link to this

People, please don’t misunderstand my posts. I love the Thrashers. I WANT THEM TO WIN. I DO NOT CONDONE TANKING. I only want what is best for the team in the present and in the future. It is time to cut ties with Don Waddell and move our franchise forward. Waddell has had plenty of time, and in the end, the results are just not acceptable enough to the majority of the fanbase. These owners may not realize it YET, because they have only been around for 3 years. But the true fans realize it, because we have patiently waited around for 9 years for things to change, BUT THEY ONLY GET WORSE EVERY YEAR! Don Waddell has shown a clear lack of ability at running an NHL team. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!

Thrashers website reports after game last night Thrashers flew down to South FLA and checked into hotel. Practice was today at 1:00. Nothing but rest from end of practice to gametime 5:00 tomorrow.

Who wants to bet the LAZY WIMPS look crappy as hell again tonight and get Outshot, Outhit, Outskated, and Outhussled? I DO!!!

WHAT WILL THE EXCUSE BE THIS TIME? South FLA hookers kept them up too late??? WE’LL SEE…

This is the LACK OF CONDITIONING and LACK OF COACHING SKILLS BY BOTH MCCRIMMON AND WADDELL i’ve been telling you about all season!!!

AND I’LL SAY IT A THOUSAND TIMES AGAIN, BECAUSE IT IS TRUE… EVERYTHING WRONG WITH THE TEAM CAN BE DIRECTLY BLAMED ON DON WADDELL!!!

His GM incompetence set the team up for failure prior to start of the season.

He fired Bob Hartley only to deflect the blame from his DIRECT RESPONSIBLITY for the team’s failures.

You fools can sit here all day and night and try to spin it the other way, but the TRUE Thrasher fans are NOT stupid! WE SEE THE PROBLEM. DON WADDELL.

NUFF SAID.

By Alan

March 16, 2008 2:30 AM | Link to this

STHs that don’t renew are fair weather fans

I don’t think I quite said that.

Not renewing isn’t the same as not supporting the team. This whiny b****** of not renewing or ever going to another Thrashers game because of X reason is not supporting the team.

I’m not a STH. I’ve never been a STH, and I can’t afford to become one now (if I could, you bet I would). However, I’m still going to the games, and I’m still cheering for the boys in blue to pull out victories. I still have faith in this team and the owners.

This is the LACK OF CONDITIONING and LACK OF COACHING SKILLS BY BOTH MCCRIMMON AND WADDELL i’ve been telling you about all season!!!

I couldn’t agree more. I’ve agreed with this statement all season. The coaching sucks and that is why we’re in this predicament right now. We suck because of a bad decision made earlier in the season. A coach that is more like a best friend than a person who is supposed to keep the team mentally and physically prepared at all times is not a coach that is for this team, or any team. And this is why I don’t want to see McCrimmon anywhere near this team next season. He didn’t take control and he didn’t do what was necessary to make this team win.

Having said that, I’m still buying tickets for Friday’s game, and I’m still buying tickets next year, and the year after, and the year after that. No matter how bad we suck.

Glutton for punishment? Hell no. I just want to watch some hockey.

By Jim

March 16, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this

Levenson made a fool of himself at the Town Hall Meeting and showed no class. His PR skills are at a Mike Vick level. Friday night’s “TANK JOB” has reignited calls for bringing back the Terrible T’s (Tamer, Tarnquist and Trembley). They were better than the 3 Stooges (McCarthy, Exelby and Klee). Levenson- We’re headed in the right direction. New title for him. Levenson- Leader of the Lemmings.

By Nikita

March 16, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this

Well, we’ve already got one Hanson brother (Thorburn). We could recruit Christian Hanson and another sufficiently goony forward and we’d have it.

By BOOMER929

March 16, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

THRASHERS BETTER SHOOT THE PUCK MORE TO BALANCE OUT THE TYPICAL 4 GOALS LETEMIN “LETS IN”. NO CHANCE OF WINNING OTHERWISE…

By Lew318

March 16, 2008 5:42 PM | Link to this

I am watching the Fla Debacle. These players should be ashamed of themselves. Other than Kovy, Enstrom and some of the new kids, none of them look like they are trying.

How do you say no pride, no heart, don’t give a damn….BUT PICKING UP THE PAYCHECK

This is unexcusable. Why even show up. Even now for the first time (yes, I am slow) am beginning to believe none of us should show for the final home games. What a message that would send!!!

By Thrasher Ryan

March 16, 2008 6:03 PM | Link to this

2-0 Florida after 1.

(Yawn)…. Boring…..

GO BLUE!!!

By Thrasher Ryan

March 16, 2008 6:07 PM | Link to this

Kovalchuk just tapped home a Bryan Little shot! It’s 2-1, early in the 2nd.

GO BLUE!!!

By Thrasher Ryan

March 16, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this

Eric Boulton just wrapped up his 2nd fight of the game! And there’s 11:19 left in the 2nd! At least one guy cares…

GO BLUE!!!

By Monica Lewinski

March 16, 2008 6:30 PM | Link to this

I swear, this team is enough to bring me to my knees!

By Thrasher Ryan

March 16, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this

Still 2-1 Florida after 2. Holik takes another stupid penalty with 9 seconds left in the 2nd. I’ll be glad when he’s gone next year.

GO BLUE!!!

By Alan

March 16, 2008 6:57 PM | Link to this

Wow, Hedberg was asleep at the net there. 3-1

By Thrasher Ryan

March 16, 2008 7:16 PM | Link to this

See, that Holik penalty came back and bit us in the @ss!

3-1 Florida, 8:16 left in the 3rd.

GO BLUE!!!

By Thrasher Ryan

March 16, 2008 7:32 PM | Link to this

Florida 3, Atlanta 1, Final.

Operation Stamkos is looking better and better.

We outshot them and still lost. Go figure.

I think teams look forward to playing us now.

I know I would.

By PJ

March 16, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this

TR Okay Boulton is obviously fighting for a contract renewal, should we renew his contract?

By R. Stroz

March 16, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this

We should send Boulton to negotiate ticket prices with Levenson.

By PJ

March 16, 2008 7:58 PM | Link to this

Good idea Stroz! Do you think we’ll see some call ups this week?

By R. Stroz

March 16, 2008 8:05 PM | Link to this

PJ - I’d like to see Valabik and LaVallee.

By Rawhide

March 16, 2008 8:20 PM | Link to this

Moving in the right direction MY @$$!

By PJ

March 16, 2008 8:49 PM | Link to this

RStroz I would too but we have some wolves that are UFA and this would be our last chance to see Doell, Haydar and Krog. I saw Valabik last October at glass level. With skates on, he is Monumentally Huuuuuuuge. Just the intimidation factor we need. The problem is that he spends alot of time in the box and our PK sux. At this point, what do we have to lose?

By Brendan

March 16, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this

Christy, I hope your office wasn’t damaged by the tornado. I have only seen the TV images. When I first heard the news, it was that the Omni Hotel had been evacuated that there was damage to the roofs of the Georgia Dome and GWCC, and also the parking deck of Philips Arena. I was out of town for half the weekend and only got back in time to catch the 3rd period of today’s game on the radio. Which Kamal made sound like it was a very close and exciting game. I guess the replay is set for 11:30.

Nix, very good post. Everyone supports this team differently. And I suppose we shouldn’t question their motives. They’re ALL Thrasher fans, after all. “Tolerance” is a wonderful thing.

Alan, there are fans who have supported this team since 1999. Stop. It’s not exactly as if this team rattled off a slew of Championships, but now that they’re faltering, the “fair weather” fans are abandoning ship. On the contrary, this team is headed for the bottom third of the Eastern Conference the seventh time in eight (7/8) seasons. Some might argue, “when was the weather ever GOOD?” No, the hardocre stance you are seeing now is some “tough love” for an organ-I-zation that needs to have some accountability to get back some credibility. One fan told me, “Brendan, when the ASG starts acting like a group that wants to win, rather than one that merely wants to flip their teams for a MONSTER payday, then I’ll return.” I replied, “we don’t really know that, for sure. There is some ‘suspicion’ that that’s the intent, [to sell,] given how they retain Knight and Waddell, despite a mountain of evidence to suggest their time is up.” He replied, “It’s up to them to prove they’re not selling.” I smiled politely and said, “I wouldn’t hold my breath for that. Ultimately, they’re going to do what they want to do. It’s THEIR business to run. Would you really blame them for selling if someone offered $200 million for an asset they acquired for $131 million?” Did I get mad at him? No. People are free to believe what they want.

Speaking of that, segue to the Pronger suspension, I’m curious what the blog thinks? Too much. Too little. Not even suspendable at all? I know Chris Simon is pretty upset. But the I think the circumstances are slightly different.

By Alan

March 16, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this

there are fans who have supported this team since 1999.

I’m one of them.

I stopped reading right there, by the way. No more conspiracy theories, no more whining. I’ve read that crap a thousand times.

Move the needle to something new, or put on a different record. This one is broken.

By Alan

March 16, 2008 11:36 PM | Link to this

As for the Pronger suspension, it’s clearly fallen far short. He, like Simon, is a repeat offender. The precedent was set at a 30 game suspension.

Expect Simon to sue the league for his lost salary, since the bar was obviously lowered.

By Brendan

March 16, 2008 11:48 PM | Link to this

Alan, thanks for your comments on the Pronger suspension, and for reading that far.

By Alan

March 17, 2008 1:21 AM | Link to this

I didn’t mean any offense, Brendan … I’m just getting quite annoyed with all the negativity that abounds on this blog anymore. It makes it very difficult to read throughout the day, whether it’s a workday or a weekend. I can’t wait until the offseason so maybe some of this negative crap will dissipate.

Didn’t mean to take it out on you. I skimmed down to the point of the Pronger suspension question after hitting post. But I have to skip the negative. It ruins my day when I’m busy trying to keep upbeat.

By Brendan

March 17, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

I want things to turn around, too, Alan. And they can. And they will, if certain obvious changes are made. The Hawks and Thrashers can get back on track with some simple changes. When that happens, you’ll see the “love” return. All that’s needed is better decision-making.