AJC > Sports Thrashers > Blog > Archives > 2008 > March > 16 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USYou Say You Want A Revolution
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
“You say you want a revolution, well you know we all want to change the world”…well, maybe not the “world”, as the Lennon/McCartney written Beatles song would indicate, but certainly Blueland. And a great deal of this “revolution” talk that has been bantered about in these parts revolves around the subject of boycotts, walkouts and not attending games.
“You tell me that it’s evolution”, or at least it’s the desire to bring about the evolution of change many feel is needed in the management of the team. I’ve read the posts and I’ve heard those who have told me themselves of their plans to not attend games or renew season tickets until such changes are made. I completely agree with the motives. However, in consideration of such tactics, all I can say is,” don’t you know that you can count me out”.
Understand, this is not to infer to anyone that to be a true Thrashers fan they HAVE to continue to spend money on the team at the same level they have in past years or even increase that amount. What another person does with their entertainment dollar is completely their choice. But as for me…I will continue to spend 20 to 25 evenings at Philips Arena next year yelling and screaming for our Thrashers…or AT them.
Yes, I’m fully aware of those who’ll say that those who continue paying to attend games until changes are made are simply acting as mindless sheep, (of course, that’s a Pink Floyd song). But the fact of the matter is that I would rather be at Philips with 18,000 other die-hard fans voicing my displeasure at the product placed on the ice, as well as the way they have been coached and managed, than sitting alone on my couch throwing pillows at the TV in disgust.
For the record, the Divine Mrs. R agrees with me completely as we have gone through far too many “throw” pillows at the Rawhide abode this season.
Now, I understand the logic that is involved with such “revolutionary” thinking…and I’m not even saying it’s unfounded. But just as I cannot root for my team to “tank it” in order to better their chances at the top draft pick, I cannot turn my back on the team and stay home. Don Waddell can’t hear me “BOO” from there…or cheer when they do well. Thus, in this instance, I do not believe in the power of “The Sound of Silence”, (Simon and Garfunkel, but you knew that).
Does this mean I am not upset with what has been skated out on the ice this year, the way they were coached and the decisions that were made by the front office? Does it mean I am not looking for some serious changes to be made once the season is over? No… quite the contrary. In fact, I am very unhappy with many things that have unfolded during this 8th Thrashers campaign, as just about everyone else is…and we will discuss these things further when we perform our end-of-season post mortem in a few weeks.
But I’m a hockey fan and a Thrashers fan and I love going to the games. If I’m a fool for that, so be it. If you choose to withhold your money in a show of disgust, that’s your right and we can just agree to disagree in how we go about supporting our team.
After all, “Ain’t that America”? (John Cougar, or John Cougar Mellencamp, or John Mellencamp or…oh whatever)!
Weekend Update
The Thrashers lost to Washington and Florida by combined scores of 7-2. They took an average of 21 shots per game, (12 on Friday), gave up an average of 31 shots per game, (which will actually improve the yearly SA/G statistic). They were 0-8 on the power play, were 62.5% effective on the penalty kill and have now dropped 12 of their last 14 games…one of those wins needing the shootout.
But good news…Bruce Levenson insists we are moving in the right direction!
Elimination Night
A regulation loss by the Thrashers Tuesday night in Philadelphia sets up the scenario in which they would be mathematically eliminated from the Southeast Division race with a loss to Carolina on Wednesday.
But good news…Bruce Levenson insists we are moving in the right direction!
We’re No. 30!
The Thrashers are now last in the NHL in goals allowed, shots on goal per game, shots against per game, last in the amount of times out shooting opponents and 5-5 goals for/against ratio.
But good news…Bruce Levenson insists we are moving in the right direction!
Comments
Commenting is now closed for this entry.
By hockeyfan
March 16, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this
First?
By LAC
March 16, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this
Mr.Potty Mouth…levenson Where Are You Hiding ???????
By ThrasherNY
March 16, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this
On one hand we have Bruce Levenson saying we are moving in the right direction and on the other hand we have Marion Hossa saying we are not moving in the right direction.
I guess now all I have to do is figure out who knows more about hockey.
Is it the NHL allstar who has a brother who also plays in the NHL and has a father who coaches a national team???
Or is it the pompus no nothing owner who runs two failing franchises and could likely not name more than ten players off our current roster.
If Hossa was the GM do you think DW would still have a job?
By PJ
March 16, 2008 10:16 PM | Link to this
Rawhide Some might say you have no “Self Esteem” for continuing to go to the games. I have found “happiness is a warm gun” as I shoot darts at my TV everytime the Thrashers do something stupid. Often, I can’t reload in time. Maybe you should ask our very own Brendan how the “Sound of Silence” has worked for him. He has boycotted the games all year. This summer we are guarenteed some “cha cha cha changes” but I guess we will all know “When September Ends” how everything pans out with this team. Oh, this is fun.
By d
March 16, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this
The ASG has to be close to pulling the plug on DW given the that the Thrashers death spiral has accelerated following Levinson’s interview with CC. How can Levinson hope to be credible if he continues to state the club is moving in the right direction?
By JRY
March 16, 2008 10:49 PM | Link to this
I believe it might be our fault for assuming the right direction was UP.
By stendec
March 16, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this
Another Falcon (tank) job by Flushers! Fumigation not enough. Send all these untalented quitters packing. ALL OF THEM! Moose gave up three goals. Not as pathetic as Letemin but far from acceptable! Ilya Kovalchuk popped in a goal. BFD! Hard to get excited when other team posts three. To the Panthers to boot! Not many more mail-ins left but enough to aggravate true Flusher watchers. Truly Falcons on ice! That, unfortunately, says it all. Do these guys PRACTICE shooting and scoring? Cannot prove it by us disgruntled fans. GO FLAMES!
By Ron
March 16, 2008 11:14 PM | Link to this
Not too shabby. It shouldn’t look to anybody that the Thrashers “threw” the game. DW is gently guiding the team to the bottom of the league. Stamkos or Doughty will be ours! DW is genius.
By Brendan
March 16, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this
Well PJ, that’s not exactly true. I made it to a handful of games this year. But it is true that I paid for tickets to the Calgary game, but then didn’t go. I don’t want to spend another nickel until I see changes. I also have tickets to the home finale, which I managed to dispose of as a “birthday present.”
Think I “like” missing games??? I don’t. I would much prefer to be there. That’s my team. But it’s been “hijacked” by people who refuse to make even the most rudimentary changes, at a critical and optimal time of need. I just can’t understand it. The Stars fired their GM, a guy who had three years left on his contract, and look how well it’s turned out for them! The Columbus Blue Jackets eventually gave GM Doug McLean a pink slip. They’re still trying to clean up his mess. I don’t “hate” Waddell. I think he’s a nice guy and wish he’d been more successful. Back in 1999, I had hoped that we might be calling Waddell “one of the best GM’s in the league in 2008.” But that ship has sailed. He’s more than had his chance. I guess the ASG figures, “There isn’t another person on this EARTH who could possibly run this team better?”
(Psst!, Brendan. That’s not true. Re-read Levenson interview with Craig Custance. He said the ASG plans to add a senior hockey advisor, like what Scotty Bowman does now, in Detroit.) Really? Why not just make that Senior hockey advisor the GM, then? You’re adding salary, anyway, if you create this position. And if you’re Don Waddell, how do you interpret this plan? Either the ASG has “faith” in him or they don’t. If I were Waddell, I’d resign. Waddell would be right to say, “Are you serious? You want me to the be the GM, but I have to run my plans through an advisor first, for approval? I quit!”
What I hope the ASG realizes is this. If they were to fire Waddell, all the STH’s who have thus far abstained, would come back. They’d come back … because they’re seeing changes. Personally, I am completely fine would “rebuilding” with a new GM, (and new coaches, new scouts) at the helm. Losses don’t bother me. It’s an investment in the future. If we get Stampkos this year and Tavares next year, fine by me. If we have to lose 50 games next season, so be it. At least we’d be moving towards a positive change. Once we’re a contender, all sorts of free agents will want to come here. But I suspect that the ASG’s plan is … stay the course … operate within a “self-imposed” budget, supplement at the trade deadline, and let’s try to be the 14th best team in the league, year-after-year, because it’s a sound business strategy.
By ThrasherNY
March 16, 2008 11:44 PM | Link to this
Brendan speakith the truth! ASG will stick with its “business strategy” and we the faithful and passionate fans will suffer.
Is there a doubt in anyones mind that we will have a self imposed cap next season?
I pray for Belkin to win the lawsuit and soon. He will either divest our team to someone who cares or hire someone to run the franchise who has a clue.
Standec: Kovy is not mailing it in and deserves to wear the C next season.
By Tony C.
March 17, 2008 12:30 AM | Link to this
Wow.
This hurts.
seriously.
But give it up for #17 the brace he’s rocking is very noticeable, and while a lot of other people talk about playing for each other in the room and for their own personal pride, #17, Perrin, The Penguin kids and ol’ slowfoot Kenny Klee are about the only guys I see bringing it everytime they’re on the ice.
I hope Ron is right and not JRY (but I’d not be surprised either way)!
GO BLUE !!!
OPERATION: Believe in Tankland IS GO!
By R. Stroz
March 17, 2008 1:00 AM | Link to this
Rawhide - As long as you are attending the games on someone or some company’s nickel, I support your attendence.
However, do you plan on attending 20+ games on your own nickel? If so, you are playing into the A$G’s hands.
If this team travels the same path next year and people continue to subsidize this clusterflop, then we can all kiss Kovy goodbye in the same manner as Hossa. Everyone, who purchases tickets next year without waiting to see if the A$G follows thru with their promises to find a coach and procure two top defensemen, will have effectively paid to lose Kovy. Do you want that as your legacy to Atlanta hockey?
Hossa has told us the problem. As a result, ticket package holders sat on their wallet and A$G mangagement started to scramble with multiple emails on team direction, new benefits for STH’s, and multiple public interviews.
Sitting on our wallets has procured the A$G’s attention.
Guess what, if you fill Levenson’s party cup before he follows thru with his promises, the owners will continue to fill our cups with Kool Aid, empty promises, and send Kovy looking for greener pastures.
So, here’s my solution.
If you are on the bubble about renewing your ticket package, consider this option, the A$G has promised a new coach and two top tier defenders next season; therefore, on your renewal contract, write “if the Thrashers don’t procure a new coach and two top tier defenders before August 1, 2008, this contract is null and void and all payments will be fully refunded by September 1, 2008.
Since the A$G has promised a new coach and two top tier defensemen, the A$G should have no problem accepting the stipulations on the renewal contract. If the A$G doesn’t agree to the stipulations, then we know that they have no intention of following thru with their promises.
From my perspective, I will continue to wait until the off season UFA moves are made after July 1 to see if the A$G keeps their promises, if they do I’ll pony up, if not, I’ll wait for free seats.
By R. Stroz
March 17, 2008 1:19 AM | Link to this
Stats - Can you find out the last Thrasher’s regulation game win against a team that wasn’t playing the second of a B2B?
Calgary was on the backside of a B2B and Minnesota was the backside of a B2B as well (that game went past regulation).
By R. Stroz
March 17, 2008 2:25 AM | Link to this
bob(other) - Based on the numbers you provided, I feel it’s safe to say you have four season ticket strips in 116 at a cost of $90.00/seat.
This helps to account for the difference in season ticket renewals in your section versus other sections. The ticket prices in your section(116) were not discounted as in many other sections. Hence, the season ticket holders in your section don’t feel that the ASG devalued your seats by selling your ticket stratum for .50 cents on the dollar.
The ticket prices in sections 112- 118 and sections 107-101 were not discounted by 50% as in sections 108-111, 119-122, 201-222, and 301-320. As you can see, the seats in the majority of the arena have been discounted.
Therefore, I would anticipate that ticket package holders in the discounted sections are considerably more upset than ticket package holders in the non-discounted sections.
Consequently, your sampling may be flawed based on your seat location.
If you had the opportunity to ask customers who were in sections of the arena where the seats were discounted, you may find a considerably lower renewal rate.
In regards to the Thrashers management placing a higher value on their customers who shell out more money, I would agree with you up to a point. Your 60 friends which spend 300,000 on seats do bring in a disproportionate share of the revenue.
However, the NHL has addressed the issue “of playing up to a certain fan base” in how team revenue sharing is calculated. In order to procure revenue sharing, the NHL mandates certain attendence numbers. In order to meet those numbers this year, the Thrashers have incessantly discounted tickets throughout most of the arena. This discounting, along with the team’s poor performance, has caused the fan base to become disgruntled.
I’m glad you support the team. I support the team as well, especially in the stands. You can ask nearly anyone who has sat within four section of me, I’m very loud and proud of it. I enjoy annoying fans who come to support the opposing team.
My issue is two fold:
1) I want a low price guarantee when I purchase my ticket package. You may feel differently next year if your seats are discounted thoughout the season due to poor attendence numbers and league mandated attendence requirements.
2) I want a team, which by a variety of metrics, is not consistently in the bottom 25% of the league and is not making changes to remove itself from the bottom 25%. Would you continue to keep a company in your equity portfolio which continued to underperform the other equity positions in your portfolio over a nine year period?
Although, we will probably still agree to disagree; hopefully, the aforementioned points will help you understand the view of the disgruntled fans.
By the way, if Thrashers management keeps the promises made in their emails, I’ll be back in my seats. However, I’ll have to wait until around July 15th to see if that happens. In the meantime, I’m sitting on my wallet.
By Alan
March 17, 2008 2:38 AM | Link to this
Stats - Can you find out the last Thrasher’s regulation game win against a team that wasn’t playing the second of a B2B?
I’m not Stats but I think I’ll give it a go.
Last regulation win against a team not on the second half of a B2B would be the 2-0 win in Washington back on 2 Feb 08. On that game, we were on the back half of a B2B. One we came out of winning both games.
By R. Stroz
March 17, 2008 2:41 AM | Link to this
Alan - Thanks
By R. Stroz
March 17, 2008 2:45 AM | Link to this
Alan - Which of the remaining games do you have tickets to?
By Alan
March 17, 2008 3:10 AM | Link to this
Stroz - I’m planning on attending the game against Washington on Friday. I don’t have tickets yet, though. I’m going to sort that out this week.
If I have a ride home from the arena (I don’t trust that C-Tran will still be operating once MARTA gets me to the Airport (I live in Jonesboro)), I will definitely get those tickets. If not, then I’ll end up watching the third period from home, as always.
By PJ
March 17, 2008 6:41 AM | Link to this
Brendan As Rawhide pointed out to me, Don is still a VP. So what is the likelyhood that he is getting removed from both jobs when BL publicly admitted being satified with his performance? Is it possible that BL knows that he doesn’t know enough about the sport to hire the right GM so he is allowing Don to hire a Scotty Bowman type to assist him but in actuality will replace him somewhere down the road? I am still optimistic that things can get better.
YOU distroyed tickets for your birthday??? Oh Brendan, happy belated, when was it?
By five_hole
March 17, 2008 7:14 AM | Link to this
People say lots of things, usually with the best of intentions. However, actions speak louder than words, and belie our true nature.
Simply put, we are hockey fans. We cannot change our nature; it’s part of who we are. We cheer, we grouse, we demonstrate our aingst, but in the end, we will continue to buy tickets, because we want to see Kovy and Ovechkin and Crosby, et al.
We bi#ch and moan and complain about the front office (is there a back office; just wondering), DW, the government, the weather, traffic and just about everything else, but in point of fact, we really are incapable of changing the world.
By rj
March 17, 2008 8:13 AM | Link to this
Ring ring ring, Hello. -Hello, Don? This Bruce Boudreau. -Hi Bruce, what’s up? -Well Don, you have a game Tuesday that we really need you to win in regulation. You have lost a lot of games lately so what changes are you planning for Tuesday’s game? -You are right Bruce we have struggled lately but I have a plan. I call it my ‘5 year plan’. What do you think of my plan Bruce? -Don I have a better plan. Why don’t I meet you guys in Philly Tuesday morning and I will coach the team for the morning skate and the Philly game?
By GaVaHokie
March 17, 2008 9:03 AM | Link to this
Rawhide and Stroz…Well, I can tell you where my “nickel” is right now… it’s on Dallas or San Jose to win the Stanley Cup… it’s a West Coast year.
So, if it helps you make peace with the season, look at it this way… it’s better to be poised in the Top 5 for an incredible draft than participate in a playoff the East can’t win.
I only believe that because we have no choice. :)
By Rawhide
March 17, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this
Hokie - it’s better to be poised in the Top 5 for an incredible draft than participate in a playoff the East can’t win.
Tell me something…3 days ago, who was the odds-on favorite to win the SEC basketball tournament? Who would have put a nickel on UGa??? And, it’s even more amazing given what happened around here over the weekend and the fact that they had to deal with altered schedules.
2 years ago, who would have said that the 8 seeded Oilers would have gotten to within 1 game of winning the Stanley Cup???
Sorry, gonna disagree with you there, my friend. I would rather be in it and have a chance.
However, it’s all water under the bridge now.
By Gary Bettman
March 17, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this
Who are the Thrashers and why is this guy Don Waddell calling my office inquring about job openings? I thought Levenson and that gang of morons called the Atlanta Spirit Group rented Philips Arena to the NHL for its All-Star Game and the purpose of showcasing professional hockey to the city of Atlanta!
By Math 101
March 17, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this
The TaRashers are mired helplessly in 15th place (out of 16 teams, mind you!)Eastern Conference. Now, in exactly what directon was Levenson referring too?
By NASCAR Dave
March 17, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this
SEE, I tried to TELL YOU! Who showed up in South Florida last night? The GUTLESS QUITTERS! This team is SO predictable! LOL!
They had 26 hours of rest before the game, and they come out and score 1 DAMN GOAL? Absolutely PATHETIC!
And again, who’s fault is that? Who is in charge of having the team conditioned and ready to play an NHL game at the scheduled time? Well, that is the coaches, McCrimmon and Waddell. And clearly neither one of them have NHL coaching abilities. AHL calibre at best.
Looks to me like DWAD is telling the boys to intentionally TANK IT, which is something I do not condone. In fact, that is an offense that should get people fired IMO.
Ok people, time to take off your blinders, wipe your tired eyes, and accept the reality in front of you….
Don Waddell created this PATHETIC PILE OF DOGGIE POO and Don Waddell is the one that is going to have to answer for the results on the ice.
If you think this team is “headed in the right direction” with that COMPLETE MORON Don Waddell at the helm, then I have some beautiful ocean front property in North Georgia i’d like to sell you!!!
Wait a minute, I thought at the trade deadline Waddell said he was not going to trade our UFA’s because he thought we “had a legitimate chance at the playoffs.” Well, based on the trade he made, he is once again “building for the future.”
So, to summarize, he is trying to build for the future, but at the same time he is saying the exact opposite!!! SO WHICH ONE IS IT, DWAD??? You are talking out of both sides of your mouth now! I think maybe you should worry a little more about getting YOUR GUTLESS, SORRY, PATHETIC TEAM READY TO PLAY A DAMN GAME WITH SOME PRIDE!
It is ABSOLUTELY DISGUSTING to me that people think Waddell is doing a good job! You people are NUTS!!!
I think I would rather watch a Lifetime Special Movie Presentation with my woman than watch these GUTLESS COWARDS go out there and TANK THE REST OF THE SEASON.
WAKE UP ATLANTA FANS…. STOP FUELING THE FIRE!!!
STOP SUBSIDIZING THE INCOMPETENCE!!!
SPEAK TO THE OWNERS WITH YOUR WALLETS!!!
BOYCOTT THE TRASHERS UNTIL THE NECESSARY CHANGES ARE MADE…. STARTING WITH FIRING DON WADDELL AND BRAD MCCRIMMON!!!
Just please, all I ask is that you LOOK AT THE FACTS! After 9 years, this franchise is at the same place we were 9 years ago………. WHAT IS THE ONE CONSTANT? Don Waddell.
NUFF SAID.
GO DAWGS!
By Clarence Campbell
March 17, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this
Sorry, I dozed off for the last nine years….is Waddell STILL Here?
By Alan
March 17, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this
Now, in exactly what directon was Levenson referring to?
I think every team in the league would love a chance at getting Steve Stamkos. Maybe BL wants the team to tank the rest of the season and win the draft lottery.
While he would be one hell of a center for Kovalchuk, I’d like to see this team win a few games on their way to the offseason.
By NASCAR Dave
March 17, 2008 11:27 AM | Link to this
GAVAHOKIE CAN YOU HELP ME OUT? I’M TRYING TO FILL OUT MY BRACKETS. I SEE THE DAWGS, BUT WHERE ARE THE HOKIES? OH YEAH, THAT’S RIGHT….. THEY’RE NOT THERE BECAUSE THEY AREN’T GOOD ENOUGH!!!!
HAHAHAHAHAHA!!!
GO DAWGS!
NUFF SAID.
By HookyBob
March 17, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this
Rawhide I see the Thrashers-Flyers game is on Versus. I was wondering if you had an over/under on how many times the Zhitnick-Coburn trade will be mentioned?
By Rawhide
March 17, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this
HookyBob - Ooooooooh, good point!
I’m gonna set the over/under at, hmmmmmm going conservative here, let’s say 4.
By GaVaHokie
March 17, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this
NASCAR Dave… why are you filling out brackets? I thought you were a football guy?
I see the bandwagon rode past your house last night.
By Heather Mills
March 17, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this
‘ello all…I’ve just come into $48.6 million and I’m looking to get…a leg up…on some good investments across the pond.
Does anyone over there know of a sports franchise I might be able to purchase?
By PJ
March 17, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this
Rawhide -Here’s a New Plan. We send five_hole to London to “charm” Heather Mills into purchasing the Thrashers from the ASG and Belkin. Then we hire Brendan and RStroz to fire everyone. I’m thinking Rannalo, ThrasherRyan, Alan and Hokie for recruiting new staff. Did I leave anyone out?
By GaVaHokie
March 17, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this
PJ… my first hire will be Nascar Dave… we need someone to suck farts out of the corporate seat cushions.
By Nikita
March 17, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this
Various and sundry…
Horrible game against the Capitals. More embarassing than the Buffalo humiliation.
Not so bad against the Panthers. I mean, bad, but we at least got a respectable number of SOG. Moments of greatness, etc.
I am a hockey fan. That means I watch hockey when I can subject to logistics and economics. So, while I appreciate the position some of you find yourselves in, it’s immaterial to me. Oh, and I don’t bother reading anything that comes in all caps or all bold. It’s usually the sign of a mind that can’t manage to communicate with anything approaching intelligence.
I remain not entirely convinced that Kovy should get the C. He’s young, I’m not sure how motivating he is to the others, etc. But I’m not sure who else would be wearing it — maybe Mark Recchi, though I have issues with him as well, and it’s not entirely clear that we’re keeping him.
Seconding the comments on Kovy, Klee, Perrin, Penguins, etc. comments. Also giving it up for the 4th line, Toby Enstrom and Nic Havelid. Oh, and ‘fro boy, whose audition for being a full-time Thrasher is going GREAT. I hope we keep him.
Can you dock people for just totally failing to show up? ‘Cause I’d like to see everyone on the ice docked for every game in which SOG are less than 30, shots against are more than 30, and the power play fails to score. Double dock for every time the 5-on-3 fails to score.
Reminds me…so WTF is wrong with the power play? The PK team is not doing too badly, especially when you compare their stats to the Thrashers’ stats in general (they look bad in comparison to other teams, but we’re not other teams)… in fact, the PK is unusually successful at short-handed goals. But what excuse is there for mixing up your five most aggressive players against a lesser number of opponents and not scoring?
One of the articles references on the Blueland blog says that Waddell tried and failed to shop Zhitnik. So we need to figure out what to do with him.
By Don Cherry
March 17, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this
FIRE WADDELL… FIRE WADDELL… FIRE WADDELL…after that, FIRE WADDELL!
By Rawhide
March 17, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this
PJ - yeah, you left out somebody….ME, DAMMIT!
You NEVER let me have any fun!
By PJ
March 17, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this
I have selflessly placed myself in charge of player physical therapy and recruited pucksdeep in charge of hydro-therapy.
By a gm a coach and a crack pipe
March 17, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this
Levenson says we are moving in the right direction. Wow. That was all I said when I read the interview. Is he just saying anything or does he really believe what he said. What do you folks think??
By R. Stroz
March 17, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this
Maybe we could have Zhitnik wash cars for everyone who attends any of the remaining four home games.
By five_hole
March 17, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this
I’m personally flattered that PJ thinks I can charm Ms Mills. I’m kind of the opinion that Mrs. five_hole has a different perspective. PJ, you made my day.
By Bob
March 17, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this
But good news…Bruce Levenson insists we are moving in the right direction!
Yes, yes we are! lol, mabye the tornado got his directions all turned around, which way is up?
By the way, if Thrashers management keeps the promises made in their emails, I’ll be back in my seats. However, I’ll have to wait until around July 15th to see if that happens. In the meantime, I’m sitting on my wallet
Ditto, with the added stipulation of mine that a new GM in brought in, otherwise it’s more of the same old out of Waddell, he changes things up every year but they never work out. I don’t listen to them anymore, I’ve flushed way too much money down the drain supporting this inferior product, time to vote with the wallet.
By PJ
March 17, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this
five_hole You had the best pick up line. But since you’re not available, who do we got?????? Hmmmmmmm……. Sorry Rawhide, I don’t think “fat penguin” is going to work. I suppose we can put you in charge of blue crew uniforms.
By Rawhide
March 17, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this
DEAL!!
By timthebrave
March 17, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this
We are moving in the right direction..We just need to give 110%….Just give it our best….Oh yeah… I don’t know what I am talking about so I like to use sports slang that means nothing
By Frequent London visitor
March 17, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this
If Heather Mills is SELLING anything, I’ll ‘av a glance at the merchandise!
By Rawhide
March 17, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this
a gm a coach and a crack pipe - First of all, is that the beginning of a joke?
As for your question, I have to think he’s just saying whatever he thinks he has too. There is NO way anyone can look at this team right now and think it’s moving in the right direction.
Now I would like to think that he is referring to something that he knows of that we do not…or he is commenting on moves that will be made in the off-season that he thinks are going to go down.
Outside of that…
By Paul McCartney
March 17, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this
yesterday….all my troubles seemed so far away…..now it looks as though there here to stay…..
Oh I believe….
I BELIEVE I SHOULD HAVE GOTTEN A $5,500 HOOKER LIKE THAT SPITZER GUY DID…WOULD HAVE COST ME A HELL OF A LOT LESS IN THE LONG HAUL!!!
By Brendan
March 17, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this
PJ, mine’s in June. I made it present for someone ELSE’s birthday. I haven’t quite reached the stage where I’m burning or shredding tickets yet. :)
I actually found a young couple who are “madly, madly in love,” but who have NEVER been to a Thrashers game. I decided that it was high time they enjoy the “Philips Arena experience.” See, even in my ‘emotional’ state, I’m still trying to recruit future Thrasher fans. For, you see, when things get “properly addressed,” like the GM position, we should pack the House. Even in some 50-loss season?? Yes, provided that we’re, philosophically, headed in the right direction. As in, “rebuilding with youth, speed, and grit” under a new GM’s vision. And get it right this time.
Look, I know people don’t like losses. And they certainly don’t want to hear the word “rebuilding.” Their patience has run thin enough as it is. But honestly, isn’t rebuilding a good idea? We’re headed towards a lottery draft pick, as it is. And clearly, that wasn’t the goal of this season. It wasn’t even our “trade deadline goal.” (Even though, it should have been.)
I’m not somebody who throws the team under the bus with each successive loss. Losing games is a normal part of any season, no matter WHAT team you may follow. I just don’t see how and why someone ELSE shouldn’t be given the opportunity to reshape this team. We already have eight seasons’ worth of evidence for the current regime. It’s not working. It’s time to try something else.
By Mike
March 17, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this
How about a “FIRE WADDELL” chant at the games the rest of the year? Every time the opposition scores, we chant “FIRE WADDELL” (clap-clap-cl-cl-clap) just like the “Let’s go Thrashers” chant… you get the point. The only thing louder than this chant would be sitting on our wallets.
RAWHIDE, there is supporting your team, and then there is wasting precious disposable income. This, my friend, is headed towards the latter very quickly.
FIRE WADDELL!
By an owner a gm and a crack pipe
March 17, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this
Rawhide, I ment to put an owner a gm and a crack pipe. That is what I am starting to believe is going on in blueland. Yes it could be the beginning of a joke. Maybe someone can complete it, or maybe that is the beginning and the ending of the joke.
By Rawhide
March 17, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this
OK then… an owner a gm and a crack pipe walk into a bar…the bartender looks over at the three and says, “Hey, those thing are not welcome in here”.
The crack pipe responds, “OK…Don, you and Bruce stay outside then…”.
Ba-DUM-BUMP!
By PJ
March 17, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this
Allright Brendan, You go the job of charming Heather Mills.
By an owner a gm and a crack pipe
March 17, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this
Brendan, I agree. I have no problem with rebuilding. The question is who should rebuild? I hope it is not the current owner and gm with the crack pipe. I would’nt mind seeing someone like Messier as gm. Someone that can’t stand to lose seams like a good start for this franchise. The sooner the rebuild the sooner we have real high quality exciting hockey. I am afraid we will win a few of the last games and start hearing stuff like: “We just need to build on the progress we made at the end of the season” or “the new guys are starting to fit in well. With an off season aquisition or two we believe we will be ready for a playoff run next year”. Changes in the off season may make us a playoff team next year but rebuilding the team is the only way we will really have a team that can go beyond the first round.
Maybe I should not use the crack pipe stuff. There could be young ones on the blog KIDS don’t do drugs! You could end up delusional like the owners and gm of the Thrashers.
By an owner a gm and a crack pipe
March 17, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this
Rawhide Very good. LOL
By Nix
March 17, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this
PJ, can I be in charge of the team’s public relations appearances? I might need some help with that - Nikita, you wanna be co-PR guru?
By an owner a gm and a crack pipe
March 17, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this
Owner passes crack pipe to GM. GM drops it and it breaks into a million pieces. GM picks it up and hands it to assistant coach. Assistant coach says “it’s broken I don’t want this”. GM says ” no it’s not”. Owner say’s “but it’s moving in the right direction”.
By Alan
March 17, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this
Recruitment would be awesome, thanks PJ! Not sure who I would put where yet, though. I’m thinking of wooing Scotty Bowman away from Detroit instead of seeking out a “Scotty Bowman type.” It makes more sense that way. Why buy the Publix brand when the name brand is of better quality, right?
By Adri
March 17, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this
Rawhide~ I enjoy reading your post. Everything you say makes total and complete sense. Now is Bruce Levinson really that ignorant??? I feel like at the age of 17, I could have a much much much better team put together in a year than Waddell has done in 9 years. I love hockey, and I love my Thrashers, but something has got to change… right now! And that change needs to be FIRE WADDELL
By Brendan
March 17, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this
Owner, GM, and C-pipe, that was an awesome post!! I totally agree. Let’s rebuild to win the Cup, not “tweak it to make the playoffs, at the #7 or #8 seed.”
In 2001, the Tampa Bay Lightning finished DEAD LAST in the league. And they lost the “draft lottery” to us! We got Kovalchuk!! But who won the Cup in 2004? No, it wasn’t Detroit, or the Rangers, or the Aves, or even Anaheim. It was Tampa Bay.
In 2003, guess which Southeast Division team finished DEAD LAST in the league? No, it wasn’t us!! Stop that!! It was the Carolina Hurricanes. Guess which team won the Cup in 2006? Why must you insist on saying it was Detroit. It wasn’t. It was Carolina.
In 2004, did the Anaheim Ducks repeat as Western Conference Champions? Or did they falter? And yet, which team emerged as Stanley Cup Champions in 2007? Come on, now. I make this soooo easy. Yes, it was Anaheim.
The point? You need “bad years” to reload. This plan of “mediocrity FOREVER” … to sustain financial solvency … may be good for business, but it just doesn’t hold that much appeal for a fan. Can I get an “A-men” from any fan of the St. Louis Blues from 1967-2004? They had tons of playoff berths. But they haven’t been back to the Finals since “The Flight of Orr,” in overtime, of the 1970 Stanley Cup Finals.
This Atlanta franchise isn’t leaving. And won’t, for at least another 12 years. In fact, its value will only increase, along with its population. Better decisions will result in soldout arenas and playoff revenues. Not to mention “buzz factor.” The BELIEF that the team will win, and turn the corner in the playoffs, is the lifeblood that will sustain this club. That’s how you combat apathy.
By five_hole
March 17, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this
Lost my job charming Heather Mills. Nuts. And after PJ liked my pickup line and all (and remembered from a post over a week ago; wish I had used it more often, back when).
Can I just switch my job to being Paul McCartney’s wing man? Just me and the Billionaire Rock Star. I like the leftover potential … .
By Rawhide
March 17, 2008 5:45 PM | Link to this
Adri - Thank you…and you’re obviously a very BRIGHT 17 year old, wise beyond your years! :o) My faith in the younger generation continues to be validated!
Five_Hole - Don’t worry about losing your job as HM Charmer…you can join me in dealing with the Blue Crew outfits!
an owner a gm and a crack pipe - I will echo Brendan’s “bravo” to your 3:06 post! If you change your “handle”…let us know.
Mike - Once RStroz and his megaphone get a look at your chant idea,…well, I’m sure it’ll be heard!
By NASCAR Dave
March 17, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this
See, I’m glad some of you are starting to see what I’m talking about. At least you are not blind. You see the problem, now let’s fix it….
FIRE DON WADDELL!!!
By NASCAR Dave
March 17, 2008 5:59 PM | Link to this
PJ - Hey brother, I got some more hires for you. I’ll be Strength an Conditioning Coach…. i’ll teach those WIMPS how to MAN UP and FIGHT and HIT and quit being little girls….
And Stendec can be Goalie coach. We all know why….
By PJ
March 17, 2008 6:44 PM | Link to this
Five_hole - per your 5:45 post, you see why you were my first choice.
Nix and Nikita Dang, I always wondered if you were the same person and sure, it’s all yours.
Nascar That’s just too big a job for one man. Me and the girls may have to assist.
Brendan We’re counting on you.
Rawhide I want a raise.
By PJ
March 17, 2008 6:49 PM | Link to this
Brendan A-men right back at ya. Now if you could quote more stats involving Columbus……
By Jim
March 17, 2008 8:22 PM | Link to this
This team doesn’t have to be encouraged to Tank It. They’re so bad that it’s a surprise when they are actually in a game. The Defense doesn’t even deserve to be listed among the NHL D. Rawhide’s observation about where we stand in goals allowed/shot margins, etc. says it all. And Levenson says that we’re headed in the right direction. What in the world is he on?
By Nix
March 17, 2008 11:02 PM | Link to this
PJ, Nikita and I aren’t the same person - she talks way more intelligently about hockey than I do :-) I just figured that if there was a need in the New Thrashers Order for someone to make sure the players got to their PR gigs, that there might be one or two guys Nikita might want to take personal charge of.
By Nikita
March 17, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this
I’m flattered, sort of. You made me sound like a highly educated hockey w*******, which is only half insulting.
Funny you should mention the PR, though. The husband mentioned that some of the guys need serious coaching — I find it charming when a player turns on an accent and uses their pidgin english. But we’ve got several players who we keep putting on camera who can’t construct sentences and look like they’ve been groomed by rats. (Kari) And how hard can it be to look into the camera, or not shadow out a player while you’re interviewing him?
Anyway, it doesn’t matter, but it’s not helping us get any new fans. And in general there’s a lack of secondary Thrashers stuff — go to youtube and try to find our players in anything that’s not an edited clip from the broadcast.
Seriously, guys, we got Hedberg, but after that the eye candy is pretty sparse and the sentences are few. I’ve been forced to ogle Thorburn strictly from hunger. (Thorburn is reasonably eloquent, too.) Though with proper coaching Enstrom might clean up nicely.
By R. Stroz
March 17, 2008 11:59 PM | Link to this
Nikita - You don’t find Holik’s Neanderthal look appealing? LOL
He could have a career as a GEICO caveman after hockey.
By Brendan
March 18, 2008 12:37 AM | Link to this
PJ, Heather’s only worth $50 million. We’d need at least another $100 million just to complete the sale of the Thrashers, and that’s without the operating rights to Philips Arena. Dang it.
Let’s see … Columbus. State Capital of Ohio! Home of OSU. Rick Nash has only two more years left on his 5-year / $27.5 million deal. And, little known fact about him, he has an affinity for ladies whose names begin with the letter “P.” And #61 is the all-time leading goal scorer in Blue Jackets history. He also holds Columbus’ record for most goals in a season (41).
Columbus, in its brief history, has never made the playoffs. It has experienced eight (8) first draft picks, all of them no worse than eight overall, including selecting 1st overall in 2002 (Rick Nash). They’ve pick 4th overall, twice, and 6th overall, twice, and 8th overall, twice, and 7th overall once.
How’d I do, PJ?
By Brendan
March 18, 2008 12:42 AM | Link to this
Stroz, imagine if Columbus had nicknamed their club, “The Cavemen.” And then went out into free agency to sign Bobby Holik. And in the press conference Holik said, “I’m proud to be a caveman.”
By Nikita
March 18, 2008 12:56 AM | Link to this
Holik needs some manscaping. But there’s really no way to camouflage that cro-magnon brow. He’s not a bad interview, though. So for that reason I’m glad he’s captain.
Seriously, somebody tell me what’s up with Slava Kozlov. Worst interview ever — he looks like he’s inches from a heroin overdose.
By PJ
March 18, 2008 6:04 AM | Link to this
Dang Brendan, You’d still have to have woo Paris on the side if we’re gonna buy out the team. Get crackin and take your vitamins.
“p” huh? Interesting. Good stats. Wow two years…. Wouldn’t that be interesting. We could never afford the big D we’re buying this summer AND #61 the year after, but I can dream. (sigh)
Rstroz I heard that Holik will be busy this summer, the Fox is doing, The Addams Family, the musical and have sought out Holik to fill the position of Lerch.
Nikita You have some interesting views and can agree with most, except for Hedberg. I would love to start an in-depth discussion doing a player by player analysis but would probably disturb the manly-men doing manly things on this blog. If I’m wrong boys, please chime in.
By five_hole
March 18, 2008 8:04 AM | Link to this
PJ - I’d say that Rawhide should have the final say on your discussion. Personally, I hate to be treated as a piece of meat (my eyes are up here) but I’m sure I could live with it.
By PJ
March 18, 2008 8:49 AM | Link to this
five_hole….LOL!! My eyes are up here?!! You crack me up.
By five_hole
March 18, 2008 9:13 AM | Link to this
PJ I’m the Cyrano DeBergerac of bloggers.
By Rawhide
March 18, 2008 9:15 AM | Link to this
Mike - I was thinking about your “Fire Waddell” chant suggestion. It leads back to the original meaning of my post…would it be more successfull with 18,000 fans chanting it…or a half-full Blueland?
Just sayin’…
Five_Hole - That’s right…make sure they love you for your MIND!!!!!
PJ - We’ll discuss your “raise” later.
By FormerIslesFan
March 18, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this
RH et al. A quick question that I don’t think I ever saw the answer to…
Now that we are past the trading deadline, is there anything that prevents us from putting Zhitnik on waivers and then re-entry waivers if he is not claimed on the way “out?” He is obviously just taking up space on the pine (and getting paid to boot). If allowed, wouldn’t it make sense to waive him and see if anyone wants to take a chance on claiming him for a playoff run (if he is allowed to be on a playoff roster at this point)? At the very least, we’d be relieved of half of his contract for next season (rather than paying him 2/3 of the contract for the inevitable (I hope) buy-out this summer).
Anyone?
By Nikita
March 18, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this
My thoughts on Zhit…something is badly wrong, and I’m not necessarily sure it’s Zhit. He is riding the pine at a premium, and in general it’s not always a good idea to pay someone to play elsewhere. But in his case it might be worth it. We already know that no one will pay what we paid for him. So if we’re lucky we waive him, he clears waivers, and then gets claimed by someone else on re-entry. If he does that, he will undoubtedly play better for whoever claims him, because he’s going to want to prove himself worthy of a new contract. So…waiving is probably going to work out better for him, assuming he can rise to the challenge. If he doesn’t get claimed, we’re basically where we started. The only reason we shouldn’t do it is to avoid subsidizing his play on another team. But, honestly, I’ve been advocating for it for a while and think it should be done.
I’d compare this situation to Jaromir Jagr’s with the Caps (though Zhit is no Jagr). He sucked horribly with that team — and I believe they’re still paying part of his salary to play in NY. But with the NYR he has his old friends and is a worthy contributor. So, arguably, it worked out for everyone but maybe the Caps. But if the Caps couldn’t make it work, I think that was their best alternative.
PJ…bring it on, girlfriend. Are we talking raw appeal or grooming potential?
By Nikita
March 18, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this
Answering your question…Rawhide, we may be waiting for the end of the season for Zhit, or even the start of next.
If he goes through waivers now, another team can claim him and will be liable for whatever portion of his salary is warranted. But they can’t play him till next year. So there’s a very low probability of anyone being claimed off waivers at this point unless someone views them as a high-enough value acquisition to get them now and take their salary without being able to play them until next year.
Given Zhit’s price, his performance, and the demonstrated lack of demand for his services, I would suspect we will not be getting rid of him this season.
That brings me to another question…why isn’t Zhit playing? If Waddell wants to offload him, especially given how things in general are going, it might serve him best to let Zhit play in a position that makes him look as good as possible. Of course, we have 99 million other competing needs, but the likelihood of trading him or losing him off waivers goes down as his stats do.
By five_hole
March 18, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this
PJ with respect to the “eyes” comment; there’s one thing you have to understand about guys. And this applies to ALL guys, no matter how young or old, we peek.
By Rawhide
March 18, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this
FIF & Nikita - I would waive Zhit ASAP. I understand Nikita’s point about waiting ‘til season’s end to do so, but they should do it as soon as they feel it can be done.
As for him not playing, I guess Waddell figures that since he probably will not be in the Thrashers plans next year, then why not let the others play who will be. If that is indeed the case, then I agree 100% with that mind set.
By R. Stroz
March 18, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this
Don’t waive Zhitnik, have him wash cars at the last four home games. The ASG could call it a new perk.
By Nix
March 18, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this
Nikita - no insult intended! Sorry if I phrased badly.
And the pidgin English can be charming, but sometimes I wish it seemed like the guys understood interviewer questions when they’re giving responses. I know it’s a function of them not being native English speakers, but sometimes they sound like politicians who are afraid to get too far away from their talking points.
The idea of someone trying to manscape Holike is hilarious. If someone tried it, I’d love to see the video of the attempt on youtube.
By PJ
March 18, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this
five_hole- I am fully aware of what men do, If I had a dollar every time……..
Nikita Waive Zhit, paying half his salary is better than paying all. As for Kozy, I’m praying that he gets his game back next season, after all we’re stuck with him. I’m assuming that McCarthy and Holik won’t be renewed. The question is, what do we do with White? As for the PR campaign? I’ve long thought that Hockey should look at what Nascar did. Attract the female fans, the men will follow. Honestly, how many guys would love to hear their wives or girlfriends say, “Lets go to a hockey game.” instead of “Dinner and the Notebook” or worse, “hold my purse while I spend four hours looking in booths at a craft show.”
By The Other Bob
March 18, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this
PJ - You’d only charge a dollar for that? You should be asking for FIVE!
By ranallo10
March 18, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this
PJ — I’m late to this one, but thanks for the appointment. I’ll handle hiring the European scouting department…
By PJ
March 18, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this
other bob yes well that wouldn’t be the first time I under-estimated my worth.
By Rawhide
March 18, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this
Tonight’s line-up:
Kozlov - Little - Recchi
Perrin - Slater - Army
Kovy - Holik - Thorburn
Bolts - White - Larson
Enstrom - Havlid
XLB - Pop
Kiwi - Mac
Kari in goal
By NASCAR Dave
March 18, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this
Well, well, ole DWAD calls up BORIS… TOO BAD HE SHOULDA DONE IT MONTHS AGO!!!
If this guy can hit, that’s a little more than what can be said for the 20 something other WIMPS on the roster!!!
Lost cause move, too little too late from a Lame Duck GM… how miserable it must be to be a Thrasher right now…
Pathetic wimps.
FIRE WADDELL!!!
NUFF SAID.
By Nikita
March 18, 2008 5:39 PM | Link to this
Hmmm. Ok, here’s the player-by-player potential analysis…
Get some of the kids involved in a series similar to the one that featured Armstrong back in the minors. Make sure it gets on youtube.
The mostly-ok list: Thorburn, Hedberg, Recchi (I kinda think he needs the C, because his interviews are awesome), Army, Perrin, Slater, White, etc. Get all the canadians to talk about things that make their accents obvious and adorable. Holik is a fine interview, but the appearance puts him in the “hell no” list.
The needs-work list: Enstrom, Little (the ‘fro must go! Unless we revive the “Hockey Love” theme.), Christensen (talk about Lurch from the Addams Family — this kid’s got no expression.) Kari (groomed by rats, totally dazed, not a native english speaker). Kovy (shy, poor english speaker, but with potential as long as no one finds out about the r-rated kilt photos.)
The hell-no list: Keep Kozzy away from the cameras. Holik only on sunny days when there’s no lightning in the sky. Havelid is fine, but doesn’t actually speak very much. “Cops”-extra Stevie Mac.
I’ve never seen Boulton on camera, but I love that about half of his roster photos show him with a black eye. Never seen Ex on camera, either.
Is there some reason the Thrashers Live guys don’t do any canned feature interviews with the players? That show’s formula is pretty light as is, especially when the team loses, and it wouldn’t hurt for us to see the players at their best rather than covered in sweat after the game. That’s why golf does as well as it does — because the people who promote it feature John Daly, but they also feature younger guys in tailored pants. Exhibit A: Teemu Selanne, who gets featured in Armani a lot.
I don’t see the Thrashers in the media enough. I liked Kari’s crib story, but what about everybody else?
Valentines Date Auction for charity. Just sayin’ — I’d bid.
By NASCAR Dave
March 18, 2008 5:55 PM | Link to this
Bolts - White - Larson
Yeah, that’s gonna work. NOT!
WTF is Larson even doing on this team??? HE SUCKS!!!
Oh yeah, Waddell signed him. What was it, 2 years? LMAO!
Waddell set himself up for failure this season by signing these LOSERS, he has ONLY HIMSELF TO BLAME when he gets AXED!!!
END THE INCOMPETENCE!!!
By Brendan
March 18, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this
Christy, were you able to return to your office today? Or was it too damaged by the tornado?
Atlanta 1, Philly 1, after one period. Shots on goal are lobsided again. Darren Eliot just mentioned that the Thrashers have only outshout their opponent nine (9) times on the year.
By Brendan
March 18, 2008 7:56 PM | Link to this
I only hit it once. The Versus Intermission crew barely spoke of the Thrashers. All that’s really been said is that Don Waddell won’t be the coach next year. Hardly news for us.
By R. Stroz
March 18, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this
Anyone want to bet the Flyers get 50 shots tonight?
By R. Stroz
March 18, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this
Are the Thrashers heading in the right direction yet?
By Alan
March 18, 2008 9:23 PM | Link to this
Dave - You continue linking to that blog, but yet there’s nothing on there that explains the position and reasoning for his termination. Needs less copy-and-paste bull from news articles, more explanation of the issues surrounding Waddell’s perceived incompetence and why he should be fired. It’s great to see someone has taken issue with what they feel is wrong with the team, but it stinks that there’s little more than the same crap that gets posted here on there.
Explain the issues with some sort of competence, a command of the English language, and a list of reasons to fire Waddell and maybe the tides will turn and there will be a relentless effort by the fans to show Waddell what is thought of him. Crap like this isn’t telling anyone anything and is fruitless in the end.
By PJ
March 18, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this
Wow Nikita You go girl. Now, my two cents worth. Self-confidence and a sense of humor would go along way with this team on and off the ice. Blood, sweat and missing teeth is all part of the game.
By Brendan
March 18, 2008 9:32 PM | Link to this
From my vantage point, the Thrashers are headed for Doughty or Stampkos. And that’s half-way there, to being in the right direction. The other half? Well, when a “new” GM is named. Why should the SAME GM rebuild this team?
Probably, it’s because Bruce Levenson’s knowledge of hockey is not where it should be. Based on Craig’s interview with Levenson, Waddell is the “brains” of the organ-I-zation. It shouldn’t be “that hard” to manipulate Levenson, who is so bereft of ideas, that his only solution is to propose “A Senior Hockey Guy,” (his words,) oversee Waddell’s moves. Well, thissss should be interesting.
Philadelphia 3, Atlanta 2. Kovalchuk got his 50th goal!!
By Brendan
March 18, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this
Waddell is now 31-30-8 behind the bench this season.
By LAC
March 18, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this
18 SOG They got 20 in 2nd period, BUT we are moving in the right direction as Rawhide says !!!!
This team is nothing short oif a complete JOKE. The whole thing needs to be torn apart and rebuilt and if waddell does it, look for another losing season of many to come next year.
It is simply astounding to hear this levenson IDIOT andhis denial of thefacts… hemust be other bob for sure… Like most in power, who should NOT be, they run and hide when confronted with the FACTS of any given matter, The franchise is dead… unless new ownership comes in this team may as well fold because with levenson and his little band of LIARS it’s over folks !!!
And you saw Craig’s comments, we have the players in place for next season… What a wonderful thought !!
LOSERS and Mr.Potty Mouth You SUX !
By Gary
March 18, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this
Don’t fret Atlanta fans! The Atlanta Hawks are going to the Playoffs. At least Billy and Woody know what they are doing!
By Sage of Bluesland
March 18, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this
I don’t know which is sadder, the Thrashers’ play or the hopeless sheep who have re-upped their season tickets for this joke of a franchise?
Well, on second thought, maybe my initial question was incorrect. Maybe it should be which is actually more hilarious?
Those who are still defending Don Waddell were defending him two years ago when his erstwhile playoff “guarantee” proved to be bluster…They were the sheep who were also saying, “Let’s give him one more year!”
Even in some ‘allegedly’ hardcore circles (cough, cough), the mindless following is pitifully embarrassing.
Oh well, it just proves yet again one of my sayings in that figurative joke otherwise known as “Blueland”: You can lead a sheep to water, but you cannot make them drink…
So true.
Wake up, Atlanta. If you subsidize this incompetence, then YOU’RE accountable…
By R. Stroz
March 18, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this
Gary - Billy and Woody don’t know what they are doing either. I could find better coaches and scouts from practically any local AAU basketball program.
By Rawhide
March 18, 2008 11:27 PM | Link to this
Yes, the Hawks may go to the playoffs…along with 2 other sub-.500 teams in the East.
Anyway…on to the new blog…
By Nix
March 18, 2008 11:52 PM | Link to this
Nikita, you’ve not given this any thought, have you?
I agree with you on getting the kids in series that can run on youtube. I got a kick out of one of Army’s where he was talking so excitedly about getting instructions from his nutritionist to get milkshakes for snacks to help him bulk up. And his tour of his apartment was a hoot - easy to see why he’s a popular guy in Pittsburgh. We should definitely do similar things here with some of our young guys.
I pretty much agree with your mostly-ok list. Although, have you seen the recycling spot they do with Slater at the games (I think before the puck drops)? Very robotic. He’s better when he’s being interviewed, but he needs to loosen up, in general, when he’s on camera. I get why you think Recchi should get the C next year, but I wonder how that affects Kovy. Is not getting the C next year the sort of thing that would undo the good getting the A this year did for him? Recchi’s interviews are really good, and I get the feel that he’s a positive influence in the locker room. I just don’t know the overall team dynamics well enough to know how him getting the C will play out for the team.
As for your needs-work list - can somebody please get Enstrom to a tanning booth? I understand being naturally pale (I was once asked on MARTA why I’m so white), but the boy looks unhealthy pale. I feel like I should be bringing chicken soup to the games for him. And while you’re giving Little some hair styling, toss Enstrom in the chair too. Like Slater, I think Christensen needs to loosen up a little… he’s just too intense (not a bad quality on the ice, but elsewhere…). I agree with you on the Kovy potential. He’s one of the one’s whose interviews kill me. Don’t get me wrong - I think he does better on the interviews than I would do in similar situations, but I wish hs English was betterle giving them, and that his English was better, just b/c he is our franchise player and I want him to shine the way Crosby does for the Penguins. Anyway… I want to know more about these kilt photos…?
As for Ex - I saw some clips of him from Casino night… not bad in a top hat. I think he might be good on camera - fairly loose and he seemed to have a good sense of humor.
Good idea re the canned Thrashers Live segments. I think they could, potentially tie in with your idea about having the series with the kids… maybe start off next season with “getting to know the Thrashers” segments? That, and/or a series in the AJC’s living section with the players could be interesting. And would bring in the women, if done right.
On a final note, I like your Valentine’s Date Auction for charity idea. You know, I think I remember seeing something about having Thrash deliver your Valentine presents/flowers in February. What if you could bid on the Thrasher of your choice delivering valentines/Christmas presents/etc.? Spread it out year-round! :-)
By home of bad hockey
March 19, 2008 7:55 AM | Link to this
this team is awful. Waddell—great job. Levenson—great job. Last place is our goal and we’re headed in the right direction. Next year we’ll be there with no one in the stands. You guys should be ashamed of the job you’ve done “building” a team and ripping off the fans.