AJC > Sports Thrashers > Blog > Archives > 2008 > April > 14 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USEsposito Finds His Way To Chicago
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Chicago Wolves have brought aboard Angelo Esposito, inking him to an Amateur Tryout Contract. The Thrashers, of course, acquired him as a part of the deal with Pittsburgh at the trade deadline.
Weekend Of Wasted Opportunities
I don’t know about you, but I thoroughly enjoyed this past weekend’s hockey viewing! Close games, great goals, hard hits and spectacular saves…just what post-season hockey is all about.
But for some, it was a weekend of wasted opportunities that could lead to their team’s early exit from The Great Cup Quest of ’08.
Take the Anaheim Ducks, for instance…they get popped 4-0 in front of their home fans to open the series and then found themselves down 2-0 to the Stars in game two. They fight their way back to even with a pair of goals, one by Selanne another by Moen to send the game into the third tied…just to give up 3 in that final period. So, their chance to have a chance might be gone.
Then you have the Ottawa Senators who were getting slapped around the rink by Pittsburgh for the first 4-1/2 periods of that series, being outscored 7-1 in that time. But their offense comes alive with a pair of goals in the second period and a game-tying tally in the third…but ultimately give up the game in the final three minutes. Their chances, too, are dwindling.
Then there’s the Boston Bruins. After getting smacked 4-1 in the series opener and falling behind 2-0 in the second game Saturday night, they fought back to tie the game sending it to overtime. Then they commit the fatal sin of putting Montreal on the power play with the game on the line, (first a 4-minute high-stick job that straddled the third period and OT, then a tripping penalty once that was killed off),….Badda-boom, badda-bing….down 2-0 in the series. However, to their credit, they bounced right back Sunday night with an overtime win of their own thanks to Marc Savard, (yeah…I know).
Lastly, the Nashville Predators…a team almost nobody thinks has a prayer against powerhouse Detroit. However, they have played two games and have had a chance to win in both of them. Game one saw the score 1-1 with just over 15 minutes left to play before falling to a pair of Henrick Zetterberg goals. Game two on Saturday found the Preds erasing a 2-0 deficit with a pair of goals 11 seconds apart, (one on a very fortunate bounce off the wall), but in the end Nashville could not take advantage of the opportunity. Chance to have a chance…bye-bye.
Maybe one could argue that Colorado missed a golden chance to take a 2-0 series lead back to Denver by losing to the Wild in overtime of game two…but being the road team, they were looking for at least a split of the games and they got just that. Either way, that looks like a great match-up unfolding there.
Eagles Soar In Frozen Four
The Boston College Eagles won the NCAA championship by beating the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame 4-1 Saturday night. The game turned on a “no goal” call as the puck crossed the line off the skate of an Irish player. It would have brought them to within one at 3-2 had it been allowed to stand. But after the score was disallowed Boston College tallied their fourth just seconds later…that goal coming from a dandy, no-look, between the legs pass from behind the goal line.
Congrats to BC for their win and to the boys from South Bend for their great run to and through the Frozen Four.
Don Speaks…Take A Listen
Ben Wright of The Blueland Blog recently posted Don Waddell’s end of season press conference and Q&A session. It’s about 20-minutes long and provides some topics of discussion for us.
So, here…put it up on the cyber-turn table and give it a spin. Then, opine away!
Comments
Commenting is now closed for this entry.
By ranallo10
April 14, 2008 1:35 AM | Link to this
SO when do you think Esposito will be in a roster update for NHL 08?? That’s what’s MOST important to me at this point…
By ranallo10
April 14, 2008 1:50 AM | Link to this
By the way, Arturs Kulda (D) and Riley Holzapfel (F) have played for Chicago in 5 and 1 game(s), respectively. Kulda has 1 assist and 10 PIM with a +3, Esposito 1GP and a -1, Holzapfel has not registered a significant stat (he has 2 shots, but who cares?).
By 12345
April 14, 2008 6:10 AM | Link to this
The Don Waddell post season news confrence was scary… This man has no clue as to what to do.
We are not making the playoffs next season or the one after that thanks to Waddell and shoddy ownership !
By glovesave29
April 14, 2008 8:48 AM | Link to this
Whoa! The Sabres look like they have a winner in Gerbe from BC. Has a motor that never stops. He’s going to be one of those players in 5-6 years that is going to be another Theo Fleury (hopefully without the substance issues!). That’s the kind of player we need here…ENERGY!!!
By Bob
April 14, 2008 9:01 AM | Link to this
Thanks for posting that interview, Rawhide. Or mabye I should say thanks a lot, Rawhide! Geez, I was already getting over how screwed we are and ready to just enjoy the rest of the playoffs, and you had to post that. His own words and ideas, or lack thereof, are the biggest indictment of his incompetence.
Some good games last night, did you know that Savard’s OT winner was his first ever playoff goal?
By kracker
April 14, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this
Here is Holly Gunning’s review of Espo’s first game with the Wolves, with pictures. Sounds OK for a first game in a new system with no practice beforehand.
Esposito’s AHL debut
By Recchi
April 14, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this
I love watching playoff hockey. This year though it seems just about every team has a former Thrasher playing well for their new team in the playoffs. Thanks DW.
By NASCAR Dave
April 14, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this
Esposito Finds His Way To Chicago
Oh, what great news. Time for Angelo to learn a “New System”. Then, we he comes to Atlanta to replace Slater and Todd White, he can get ready to watch some videotapes and learn ANOTHER “New System.”
Exciting news to say the least!
By d
April 14, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this
Several times during Don’s press conference he notes that the Thrashers were in first place in February, and therefore, he did not anticipate the need for significant changes.
Well excuse me! The Thrash were never in first place in the conference - their best showing was 9th. Hopefully Don is not talking about first place in the division - given the SE was by far the weakest of any in the league. That would be a ridiculous benchmark for evaluating the performance of the club, don’t you think?
If DW & BL truly believe the Thrash were in first place it confirms they have lost their sense of reality, IMO.
On a separate note, kudo’s to Glenn Metropolit and how much ice team is getting for the Bruins, particularly in the playoffs. Glenn has a great personal story and was always great with the kids after practice when he was a Thrash.
By Rawhide
April 14, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this
Glovesave29 - Where is this young player now in the Sabres’ system?
d - I think DW is referring to that 24 hour span of time between 10::30 pm Feb. 15th and 10:30 pm feb. 16th…just after winning that 10 round shootout in NJ and getting spanked on the island & letting up 49 shots in that game.
For, in that short period of time, the Thrashers did indeed hold the lead in the SE division.
So, yeah…why make any rash changes? eyes rolling
Bob - Sorry my friend…I just put the info out there. You have to decide whether or not to open the link.
But admit it…you KNEW it was gonna be painful, but..like me… you just HAD to do it.
By RS
April 14, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this
I was watching Metropolit last night myself and thinking that I hope he realizes that he has an NHL job and Hartley doesn’t.
By NASCAR Dave
April 14, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this
Yeah that was a good one last night…
Savard with the Game Winner… Hnidy gets in a fight… Metro winning every faceoff…
If I recall correctly, Hnidy had a Goal in the Playoffs for us last year too…
What did ZHITHEAD do for us in the playoffs last year???
Many damaging decisions were made by Waddell in July 2007… I’m already getting excited about this year’s crop of Tamer’s, Tremblay’s, and Smelhik’s, ARE YOU???
By Bob
April 14, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this
kudo’s to Glenn Metropolit and how much ice team is getting for the Bruins, particularly in the playoffs
Yep, I was thinking the same thing last night. I never understand why Hartley wouldn’t play him more, I was always yelling for him to get more ice time. Don’t understand why Waddell didn’t re-sign him given our dearth of centers.
But admit it…you KNEW it was gonna be painful, but..like me… you just HAD to do it
Yep. I think it’s the ambulance rubber necker in me, just can’t help watching the train wreck.
By kracker
April 14, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this
RH That really was an exciting day following that win in NJ - Little did I realise that the next 4 games would be the most dismal I have witnissed as a Thrashers fan.
That also describes this wretched season after we had supposedly turned the corner as a franchise. Unfortunately, DW held on to the steering wheel, the team did a 180 and went the wrong direction.
By Bruce Levenson
April 14, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this
No, no, no, Mr. Kracker…we are moving in the RIGHT direction.
See, when Don stayed at the wheel, he made the team turn a 180,….now, he’ll turn it again in the same direction 180 degrees and, badda-boom, badda-bing…right direction!
At least that’s what he told me…
By glovesave29
April 14, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this
Rawhide - the Sabres drafted the Frozen Four MVP Nathan Gerbe of BC in the 5th round in 2005, after he got 18 points as a Freshman. Since then he scored 47 and 57 points…he just looks like one of those players that was undersized and everyone told him that he’d never make it as a pro…so he plays at 200mph with a chip on his shoulder. After winning it all this year, one would think he’d go pro now…my guess is next season he’ll be in Rochester of the AHL.
By Rawhide
April 14, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this
glovesave29 - Ahhh! Yes of course, got it!
I tell ya, he and that whole BC team looked fast! After they ran all over North Dakota last week, I thought they would be the overall winner.
So, I take it you’re a Sabres fan, then?
By PJ
April 14, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this
Thanks Rawhide for the weekend update. Apparently a little thing like hockey isn’t newsworthy in my in-laws corner of the world. It’s good to be back.
By NASCAR Dave
April 14, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this
Another fun game to watch last night was the NJ Devils/NY Rangers…
John Madden with the Game Winner in OT — You know, the guy Jersey wanted to trade us for Holik?
But that’s “Our Donnie”!
By JB
April 14, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this
Hey Dave, don’t you have a Jeff Gordon fan-club to run or something?
Can you not make a civil post without a back-handed slap at DW.
By Tony C.
April 14, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this
The article on Esposito seems pretty favorable-and much what I expected. Loads of talent, very raw, and looking to make a good impression. he can’t help but have heard all the negative press he got after the capturing the Gold @ World Juniors…but he was the captain of that squad, and I don’t know that any of his teammates had negative quotes regarding him [Esposito]. Now I may have missed it, but the only people that i gather had a negative impression of him were some coaches and scouts in the Pittsburgh organization, and some national critics in T-dot.
I don’t know about you, but I am pretty sure that if you’re a guy, at somoe point between 13-21 you were pretty surly…hopefully it’s one of those “passing phase” things-I hope he does well with the Wolves and that goes for all our prospects-this could be just the experience needed to propel the youngsters to wash the taste of crapola out of Atlanta fans’ mouths.
GO WOLVES !!!
P.S.- You’re sooo on point ranallo
By Brendan
April 14, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this
Is it “wrong” that I’m pulling for the Gwinnett Gladiators these days?
By ranallo10
April 14, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this
Tony C. — I’m just trying to focus on the important things, ya know? At least it’s Thrashers related.
Brendan — Nah, it’s just sad that is where we sit these days, rooting for an ECHL team to succeed. I’ve never really supported Gwinnett, so I can’t claim I’m doing anything more than wishing them well. I’m rather indifferent towards the team, but it’s nice for an Atlanta minor league team to do well.
However, I doubt a Gwinnett championship will do much to improve the NHL club…ever. How many impact players have made it to the NHL through the ECHL? I’m not talking about Gwinnett, I’m talking about the ECHL in it’s entirety.
By The Other Bob
April 14, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this
Ranallo, Brendan - I hope the Glads do good, as well as the Wolves.
But, isn’t it interesting how those two organ-I-zations, (our minor affiliates), are ALWAYS in the post-season…and ALWAYS going deep in the post-season…but the Thrashers…??
What’s wrong with this picture?
By glovesave29
April 14, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this
Rawhide - no, not a Sabre fan at all, I am a fan of their organ-I-zation, though. They have an amazing eye for talent, and a stable coaching situation. Two things we could use here in Atlanta. At least us long time residents still have a dog in the hunt for the Cup - GO FLAMES!
By ranallo10
April 14, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this
The Other Bob — I know that’s a rhetorical question, but I’ll answer none-the-less…
AHL and ECHL success doesn’t necessarily translate to NHL success UNLESS the teams are fashioned in such a way that a exchange of talents would be streamless and with little learning curve for the systems being paid. That unison is not in affect for some AHL/NHL associations, such as Chicago/Atlanta. Detroit/Grand Rapids, Buffalo/Rochester, San Jose/Worcester, Montreal/Hamilton…they’re examples of where the system is seamless, and the talents from the AHL can parlay their successes to a serviceable role in the NHL.
As for the ECHL, I don’t feel the talent is on par with most junior league hockey, much less minor league hockey.
By Brendan
April 14, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this
Truthfully, I’d think that all GM’s would like to be able to point to their farm clubs as having playoff success. That process issss somewhat “shaping” that player for things to come. Although, not necessarily to play in the NHL parent’s club’s system. But I digress.
I think Don Waddell is a great minor league GM. He even made a minor league trade deadline move. Honestly, he DOES CARE how Chicago and Gwinnett do. He feels a sense of OWNERSHIP for those results.
But I hear ya!! Don’t think that I don’t. “But Brendan, what does that have to do with the price of tea in China, as far as it relates to the Thrashers’ success?” Well, ya got me there, folks. Don Waddell’s “accountability” ought to be over what the Thrashers do, not the Wolves or Gladiators achieve.
I tell you what I wish. I wish Don Waddell had been more successful in the NHL. And the Olympics. He seems like a guy who is genuinely “passionate” about hockey. He seems like a fairly “likeable” fellow among his peers. Most GM’s have nothing but praise and “war stories” from meetings with him. I’d even wager, that if you polled these other GM’s, they’d, on balance, wish for him to have greater success. They like him. The ownership likes him. (He’s going to make them very rich when these two teams and operating rights to Philips Arena are eventually sold.)
Trouble is … wins put butts in seats. And playoff revenue is essential to the continued success of most NHL teams. And therein lies some difficulty for Mr. Waddell.
By ranallo10
April 14, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this
and with little learning curve for the systems being paid.
Sorry, I meant “learning curve for the players being exchanged”…I’m not sure where that original sentence came from.
By Buzilla Baby Blues
April 14, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this
http://www.forbes.com/2008/04/08/sports-atlanta-seattle-biz-sportscxtvraf0408sportsmisery.html
we’re #1
we’re #1
By Buzilla Baby Blues
April 14, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this
that link doesn’t seem to be working. Anyway, Forbes rag named Atlanta the crapiest sports city in the country.
Congrats everyone
By LAC
April 14, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this
The press confrence was interesting, but I was perplexed at waddell and how he kept saying we were in first place on this date and on this date… Well don… where did we finish up ??? NOT in first place.
I believe he is afraid, of suceeding or he is afraid of hurting players feelings… He really sounded out of touch with the entire scope of the team and problem… HIMSELF !
What concerns me most is all the players from this season coming back for next season… slater/larsen/white/klee/zit to name a few… they need to be waived or traded for a bag or two of used pucks… They were really not good this year.
Just never changes or gets better here, our #1 player sounds like Hossa and we all know where he is now.
Just a circus with a ringmaster who is out of control, sooner or later the circus folds… What a shame it is for us Atlanta fans !
By ranallo10
April 14, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this
Trouble is … wins put butts in seats.
That’s definitely a debatable statement. Look at NJ, Tampa, Toronto, etc.
But I know what you mean, winning IN ATLANTA will likely put butts into seats. We’re a city comprised of mostly fair-weather and/or transient fans.
By Brendan
April 14, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this
It’s true that Toronto will sellout even if the team wins 15 games all season long. And, well … NJ might win the Cup, but not sellout. Somehow.
But I really do believe that winning is the catalyst for greater fan attendance, for most of the league. It’s the about “quality of time being spent.”
What if Curt Fraser were still the coach? At a certain point, hockey fans will just say, “I’ve seen enough. I’m not going anymore. This team is bereft of ideas.” Are they really “fair weather” fans? If the ownership doesn’t care enough to try to improve the product, why should the fans continue to support it? goes the theory.
By ranallo10
April 14, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this
LAC — Who do you propose should play in the stead of the players you mentioned?
Larsen/Klee/Zhit I feel could be replaced easily by minor league talent. I feel Slater serves a purpose, and is not overly expensive (thus not tying up monies that could be better spent elsewhere). White I also feel would excel in his correct role, not a miscast offensive center role (as he was playing this past season). I wouldn’t be opposed to moving White, I just think it’s tossing in the towel too soon, and for the wrong reasons…he played to his capabilities, and if cast correctly could still help this team.
By FormerIslesFan
April 14, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this
Okay, so here is a “salt in the wounds” moment.
Did anyone else watch Game 2 of the Flyers/Caps series?? Somewhere in the middle of the second period, the announcers were raving about Coburn. During that bit of color commentary, the announcers said something along the lines of what a great move it was by Paul Holmgren to steal Coburn from the Atlanta Thrashers and how Zhitnik was “nearing the twilight of his career” while Coburn was a “rising star.” They topped it off with, “Bet Atlanta would love to have that one back.”
Great…can’t even enjoy the playoffs without the announcers reminding us of how bad the Thrashers are (both in not making the playoffs and trades made)…
By ranallo10
April 14, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this
Brendan — I hear you, I was just saying that the tag line “winning puts butts in the seat” is not accurate, and was thus pointing that out. Hockey is a sport comprised by a specific quantity of hardcore fans (in my opinion). The types of fans that will attend no matter what, because they want to watch hockey. In the right market (like Toronto) you will have sellouts no matter how bad the team is. In the wrong market (Nashville, New Jersey) you will have 14,000 fans on average (and that’s being generous). Some extraordinary markets like Tampa Bay will somehow continue to be in the top 10 in attendance, though finish in dead last place.
My only explanation is the types of fans for this sport (who much like soccer fans will attend in order to support their team, even in the rougher times), as well as the quality of the market the team is located.
So I agree that winning, in Atlanta, will put butts in the seats. 9 years is a joy-ride compared to what Toronto and Ottawa fans have endured, so I cannot feel for many people who feel it’s imperative to stop supporting a team they’re upset with the direction of. It’s their prerogative, I understand that, and I respect that, but I don’t necessarily agree with it in every instance.
In this instance the ASG is showing little to know remorse for what they put the fans through, nor do they seem to have a grasp on what can or should be done to rectify the situation. I therefore can appreciate anybody who decides to bail on the team financially, that’s their decision.
By Brendan
April 14, 2008 5:40 PM | Link to this
FormerIslesFan, let’s take some comfort in knowing that Alex Bourret isn’t setting the world on fire. And yes, Pascal Dupuis is gone now. But Christensen and Armstrong are part of that “return.”
I’d like to see a lot of different players approached about playing in Atlanta next season. But part of the difficulty of compiling a list … is that we don’t rightly know who will still be available on July 1st. If I said, “I want Sean Avery and Kristian Huselius.” Those guys might not be available. Likewise, if I said my “wish list” of defenseman include Campbell over Redden for Tier I, and Rozsival for Tier II, and Streit and Montador for “bargain barrel” wing-n-a-prayers … all those players could be re-signed by their clubs prior to July 1st, rendering them “unavailable.”
There could be teams looking at Boulton, Holik, Hedberg, Popovic, McCarthy and others. Even an RFA like Lehtonen. But, they have to wait until Atlanta gives up on them, on July 1st, before they can begin to make offers. Unless they intend to “trade” for them. Which is unlikely, unless it happens on draft day.
The draft will happen before FREE AGENCY begins. Unfortunately for the GM’s, they won’t have the benefit of knowing what the cap will be until AFTER the draft. That lack of knowledge can slightly inhibit their ability to work trades. What if, for example, some GM actually wanted Patrick Marleau and his new contract, with the “no trade clause,” because they had a pending Tier I UFA making ultimatums about a Center for his line, as the condition of his re-signing. Well, knowing what the cap will be could affect that decision.
The NY Isles, Toronto, Buffalo and Carolina all hold picks somewhere between 5th and 14th in the upcoming draft. If they had the cap room, they could approach SJ for a trade for Marleau, assuming they felt he was worth a high 1st round pick.
By Tony C.
April 14, 2008 5:57 PM | Link to this
How long and how much would you give KL right now so as to avoid RFA-poaching?
By Gary
April 14, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this
Don’t fret Atlanta fans!
When the Washington Wizards defeat the Indiana Pacers tonight, Your Atlanta Hawks will be going to the playoffs!
I know it’s hard to fathom, but Billy and Woody just out-performed Wadell this year.
Get your tickets now, they are going FAST!
http://www.2008hawksplayoffs.com/offers/april08/intro_flash.html
See you there!
By JB
April 14, 2008 6:29 PM | Link to this
Gary: The Hawks, your giving me the Hawks? Don’t start with the Hawks; the only reason the Hawks have sniffs shot at making the playoffs this season is because the Eastern Conference is so God Awfuly Bad. If they were in the West they wouldn’t even have a pipe dream’s shot at making the playoffs.
Their making it to the dance has nothing to do with the coaching abilities of Woodson(who should have been fired a long, long time ago) or Knight(see my description of Woodson); the players got themselves there in spite of them both.
To conclude; I’d rather watch bad Thrasher hockey than a mediocre, less than stellar playoff bound Hawks basketball any day of the week and twice on Sunday.
By Sara
April 14, 2008 6:47 PM | Link to this
FIF I can do you one better. Darren Eliot pointed out during game 1 of that series that Coburn led his team in +/- this year. Now THAT is REALLY salt in the wound.
By glovesave29
April 14, 2008 7:40 PM | Link to this
Brendan could not be more right…winning is the ONLY thing that puts “butts in seats”. If you think tradition and history sells seats, you are kidding yourself. When I first started watching hockey, the worst teams in the league were Toronto and Detroit (some things change, some stay the same!) - and neither team could fill their barns. These were not big arenas, Detroit’s Olympia and Toronto’s Maple Leaf Gardens were some of the smaller arenas. I don’t blame the fans at all…why should we plunk down hard earned $$$ for an inferior product? The owners did not want to spend money on salaries and their teams were train wrecks, so people stayed away in huge numbers…from original six teams with tons of history and tradition. Winning is the only cure.
I especially feel for Thrasher fans…season ticket holders to be specific. Paying full price, while I got to 6-7 games a year and pay 50% of face from scalpers, then I end up moving to even better seats. You have every right to call for Wadell’s head on a plate. He’s been given enough time, the record speaks for itself. It is time for him to go. Let’s get someone with passion for the team and the city in his place. Go back to the Flames…Cliff Fletcher built this team into a powerhouse in the same time frame that Wadell has imploded this team 4X over. I will never forget him apologizing for the team moving and he had nothing to do with it. Or the tears of happyness in his eyes as he held up the cup in 89 and said it was also for the loyal fans back here in Atlanta. Wadell doesn’t care that much, he’s show it time and time again. Let’s try something new…
By Sage of Bluesland
April 14, 2008 8:24 PM | Link to this
Great comments by glovesave—and he is based in reality (a foreign place for the rose-colored set around here).
I think Waddell DOES care—for saving his own skin at all costs…He will never have a higher profile or higher paying gig than this…Of course, it’s in the least educated hockey environment in the league…A figurative joke of a place (“Blueland!”) where mediocrity is accepted—and rewarded! Only in Atlanta would this sheer incompetence continue.
I just listened to the sniveling little fraud of a GM’s press conference…That was both encouraging and enlightening! I’m just disappointed he didn’t outline yet another of his vaunted “Five-Year Plans” (Thank you, Thank you!)…He really is a sniveling little rat more suited to his previous employment: Port-a-Potty salesman.
That’s his true medium. Wake up, folks.
By Rawhide
April 14, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this
FIF - Yeah, me and the youngest tax exemption were watching that game together and we both heard it. The phrase stated just after mentioning it was…”you gotta be kidding me” or something like that.
My son said, “…and Don Waddell hasn’t been fired yet?…you gotta be kidding me”…
I teared up! sniff
Zilla - YEA!!! We’re #1…we’re #1. we’re…..hey wait…that SUX!
Just damn…
By Sage of Bluesland
April 14, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this
Oh, and one of the most humorous lines from the post-mortem was that bumbling idiot (Waddell) keeps talking about writing a book…Can you believe this guy?!
Ummm, Don, not many watch the product you put together to begin with—What in the world has possessed you to think that anyone would want to read your words of incompetence?!
No-one wants to read what losers write…well, except the dyed-in-the-wool sheep like GaValamb, JB, and the other wittle Bwuewand fwag wavers…
(and that’s NOT chocolate Donny is shoveling down your throats, folks)
By Tony C.
April 14, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this
Yeah.
Fletcher is a true Class Act - I remember the “This is for the fans we left in Atlanta” quote, and remember being very touched-he truly seemed remorseful that he couldn’t share The Cup with Atlanta fans.
I’d kill for him to have been given the reigns from DW. But he’s upstairs in Toronto again, and I’d be willing to bet the buds don’t stay in the cellar for long.
DW did sell port-a-pottys…and that may just be his calling, but we’re stuck with him. Now I hope that we can all just take a deep breath and do two things:
1) Use all manner of influence to help DW craft a lineup that is geared towards long-term (this means more than two weeks in April) sucess.
2) Have a LOUD and INVOLVED group of fans represent @ The Flatscreen. Seriously. I watched the CGY-SJ game, and wow those guys up in Cal-Gary are INVOLVED…sea of red-heck it was all Flames Red! I don’t know if they handed out t-shirts at the turnstiles, but it made for a very impressive sight seeing the entire place in the same color of red (notable exception being the brunette in the black top that CBC kept showing-not that anyone there was mad at her for the spaghetti-strap top).
Oh, and I thought of another guy I’d like to see DW go after: Langkow, if he’s available.
By Rawhide
April 14, 2008 9:16 PM | Link to this
Tony C - That sea of Flames red was not set up…that’s the way those people come to the game. It’s truely an awesome thing to see, isn’t it.
As for the chick in black….Gee…I…hardly…even…noticed. Yeah, that’s the ticket…I didn’t notice at all :o)
As for DW eing here like it or not. I fear you are correct. I mean, if BL doesn’t have the stones to cut him lose after this past season’s deacle I don’t know if there will ever be a situation that would cause him to.
9 season, 10 years….this is more time than we give a U.S. President for the love of God!!
(sigh)….
Oh look, Dave Nonis was just fired as Vancouver’s GM….so, some teams DO still hold general manager’s accountable!
God-Almighty!
By J (Z)
April 14, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this
Interesting news: The Canucks fired their GM!!!!
By Tony C.
April 14, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this
I do realize that most atlanta sports fans suck and/or still root for their “hometown” team-even though they haven’t set foot in their “hometown” (saaay NYC) since 1977.
But it would be so nice if people got a cheer going without the help of the doofus who does the programmed cheer stuff…also the organ by itself would be waaay better than the organ with the band-in-can bass & drums.
By Thrasherbob
April 14, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this
Tony C - “The organ” yeah, ahh that says it all.
By LAC
April 14, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this
Right AS ALWAYS SAGE my man !!!!!
Ranallo, look at the +/- of some of these guys. Then look at their production… slater did not score until what Feb. larsen had 2 goals I think, klee was a disaster and could not keep up with fast forwards and made some AWFUL passes.
We all know about zit.
But these guys have had their chance and simply put… it has not worked out for them OR the team. slater is a third year player, larsen a vet, If you Ranallo had sales people at your company that did not produce or remained stagnet year after year… What would you do ?
They are just not needed here at this point. We need and need badly NEW BLOOD… these guys have had their shots and not preformed to the level expected… unless you are the GM, who will likely welcome them back with open arms and we will flop next year… What will change with them next season Rannalo ?
I would much rather see kids in here busting their rumps, learning and getting better than guys who have watched the train leave the station.
todd white is simply a player we can ill afford to keep, he was not good last season, best to buyout and MOVE FORWARD… He will not be any better next season either.
Which comes right back to waddell.
He just does not understand NHL hockey and how to bring in the RIGHT players to get the job done…IE WINNING !
When you have Hossa say we are NOT heading in the right direction and Kovy doing the same exact thing… Ranallo, just what does that say about don waddell ? and these so-called owners ?
How many EX-Thrashers are in the playoffs this season ?????????
How many have left and Won The Stanley Cup, several, what do WE have ? Nearly a last place finish in the NHL,many sites rate us as the #30 team, TSN/Hockey News…
Not to mention allowing our traditional trademark, MOST GOALS ALLOWED in the NHL ! How Many times have we done that now in 10 waddell seasons ?
If you Ranallo, were the GM, would you not see this and FIX it over time ? waddell sure has NOT !
waddell has been here a long time and seems indifferent to his job security, which really scares me !
So ranallo, should we keep the players mentioned, will they be better next season ? My question for you is this, Why should we return players who had little or no positive effect on the team this past season, because what do they offer different for Next season…
By Brendan
April 14, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this
And here I’d thought I’d be the first to break news … A year removed from winning a division title, Vancouver GM Dave Nonis has been fired. Nonis took some heat at the trade deadline about his pending free agents and retirees, and getting “return” for their rental. Vancouver did collapse a bit down the stretch. For a while, it looked as if Edmonton might actually sneak into the playoffs ahead of them. In the end, Vancouver did lose ground in the race for the NW Division Championship and, ultimately, the final playoff spot to Nashville.
Other GMs must look at Don Waddell and think, “Ah ha! Thaaaat’s why you took the Atlanta job. Total job security.” And folks, Vancouver won a playoff series last year, over Dallas, 4-3. Then they were eliminated by the eventual Stanley Cup Champions, the Anaheim Ducks. Not too shabby, in terms of results.
David Nonis was named General Manager of the Vancouver Canucks on May 6, 2004. Due to the lockout of 2005, The Nonis Administration only lasted three seasons. In 2005-06, Vancouver just missed the playoffs, at 92-points. In 2006-07, the Canucks finished with 105-points, good enough to capture the Northwest Division title, as the #3 seed in the Conference. This year, they finish 9th or 10th. I cannot recall. GM Nonis hired Head Coach Alain Vigneault on June 20, 2006.
In case you’re the slightest bit curious, check this out, and ask yourselves if it “sounds familiar?” Nonis, from 1998-2004, served as Canucks Senior Vice President and Director of Hockey Operations, and was chief negotiator of player contracts. Nonis appointed Steve Tambellini as Assistant GM, as his first official act as GM. Nonis helped shaped the Collective Bargaining Agreement for the 1994-95 version. Nonis also worked with the NHL’s arbitration team, which included helping teams perpare for arbitration, researching salaries and interpreting contract language. Nonis has a B.A. (1988) and an MBA (1990) from the University of Maine.
So, anyone think Atlanta should hire him? He’s looking for work. He could probably a decent coach.
Nashville just tied it up with Detroit, 3-3!.
By Brendan
April 14, 2008 10:07 PM | Link to this
Jason Arnott has score 9 seconds later, to give the Nashville Predators a 4-3 lead. Hasek looked ‘very mediocre’ on these two ‘stoppable’ shots.
By Brendan
April 14, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this
The Predators got the empty-net goal, to win 5-3. They trailed, 3-2, in the third period. How about that, folks. Nashville, an expansion team of 1998, just got another playoff win. Nashville has never won a series, though. They lost to Detroit, 4-2, in 2004. They lost back-to-back series with San Jose, 4-1. Nashville is 5-14, all-time, in playoff games. The Nashville Predators have NEVER won a road playoff victory. Nashville is 3-1, lifetime, at home in playoff games vs. Detroit.
By Rawhide
April 14, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this
Brendan - You scare me sometimes, dude!
Seriously though…getting back to Nonis. Lemme see if I’m reading you properly here, professor.
Vancouver Canucks in ‘05-06 go 42-32-8 for 92 points, (3 points shy of a playoff spot)…..then in ‘06-‘07 they go 49-26-7 for 105 points, (good for 3rd seed in the west)….then this year they are 39-33-10 for 88 points, (3 points under the “make the playoff” line).
That’s 3 years with a winning record, an average of 95 points, they let up only 2.51 goals per game this year, (7th best in the NHL)…
And they fire the GM who helped engineer that “mess”???
Well, it’s just a damn good thing OUR team didn’t suck THAT bad over the past three seasons, eh?
By PJ
April 14, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this
Brendan Yeeah!!! That was awesome! Detroit is one of three teams I love to see lose. (sorry Sara) But…….Does that mean you can’t give me a recap of the Pens-Sens game? Rawhide Hows your thumbs doing?
By Bob
April 14, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this
Gee, anyone catch the Pens a* whipping of the Sens tonight? Take a gander at #18 at all?
I hope all of the usual suspect Waddell apologists who were bad mouthing Hoss for disappearing in the playoffs are watching, and learning.
I told you Hoss was a force in the playoffs, not Maid Marian like the perpetually clueless were mislead to believe. In 3 games so far he has 17 SOG, 1G, 5A, +2, backchecking like a beast all over the ice, forechecking, keeping puck possession at will, and was #1 star tonight. But I’m sure that’s all due to Sidney, eh?
I watched him for years in the playoffs with Ottawa and he was a force then, the Sens club ran into some hot goaltenders in their short playoff runs, but Hoss always had high shots on goal totals and was always a force in the games. 17 SOG in 3 games, yep, that’s a real shrinking violet there.
I’m sure glad he didn’t Believe in Blueland, don’t need guys like him to build a club around.
By Rawhide
April 14, 2008 11:04 PM | Link to this
PJ - Pittsburgh/Ottawa, let’s see….Pens take 3-0 lead over Sens with 4-1 win.
Oh, and Hossa nets a goal and 2 assists. He’s got 6 points in 3 games for the Pens. Isn’t that swell? Oh, and Pascal, “you me and” Dupuis…hes got a helper and is a +2 so far for Pittsburgh.
Oh, and if ya missed it, Mark Savard scored the game winner in OT last night for Boston. He has a goal and 3 points in 3 games….and our old buddy Shane Hnidy has a goal for them as well. And Metro’s playing well to for the Bruins.
Oh, and that Braydon Cobourn guy, he’s a +3 with an assist for Philly so far in 2 games this post-season.
Who was it earlier that said something about DW being a good minor league GM. I agree…we seem to be the farm team for the NHL right now.
By NASCAR Dave
April 14, 2008 11:26 PM | Link to this
Well, Vancouver just fired their GM after 3 seasons!
And here we are stuck with Don FRAUDell after almost 10!!! With worse results! At least Vancouver HAS WON a playoff game in that time!
What’s wrong with this picture???
And whaddaya’ know? Andrew Brunette just scores for Colorado… Hey, where can we get a player like that???
These playoffs sure are blowing up in Donnie’s face, wouldn’t ya’ say?
By Brendan
April 15, 2008 12:13 AM | Link to this
Raising my hand, that’d be meee with the “Don Waddell’s a great minor league GM.” What? It’s true. That’s pretty much where it ends, though.
I wish I could interview Nonis. I’d ask him what he thinks of Waddell keeping his job, after seven out of eight years in the bottom third of the Eastern Conference, no playoff series wins, and his orchestrating team that’s given up the most goals in the NHL over the past eight seasons.
Hmmn, how might that go?
“Mr. Nonis?! Mr. Nonis! May I have a brief interview?”
“Sure, what media outlet are you with?”
“The Springfield Shopper, still $0.35. Now featuring Deli coupons.”
“Okay, thenn.”
“Mr. Nonis, you didn’t exactly have a horrific tenure with the Canucks, and yet, you find yourself unemployed today. Well, that is, you no longer have a title, or an office, to accompany your paycheck.”
“And your question might be, what again?”
“How can I get a job like that? It’s my dream to be a ‘telecommuter.’ Ya know, to work from home.”
“Uh, I don’t know. Check ajcjobs.com? Do you have a hockey question for me?”
“Actually, sir. My question is about Don Waddell.”
“Don Waddell? What’s he got to do with the Vancouver Canucks?”
“Well, nothing. Other than you really missed out on an opportunity to fleece him at the deadline … to save your job. But, uhh, he has won a ‘vote of confidence’ from the Atlanta Spirit Group, which owns the Thrashers. Would you rather have ownership like that? One that provides virtually limitless job security?”
“Oh yeah! Definitely. Who wouldn’t want to be able to intimidate an ownership group into a contract extension, based on their total incomprehension of hockey operations? Imagine how much more RELAXED it would be, knowing that I wouldn’t get fired for mismanaging assets at the trade deadline. Would I have done the Coburn for Zhitnik deal? Probably not. But it’s sure nice to know if I come out of the wrong end of that one, it doesn’t cost me my job.”
“But Mr. Nonis, would you say that Waddell’s retention is having a ‘positive impact’ on the players’ morale? And has fostered an environment that might attract free agents?”
“Who CARES? As long as the GM gets to keep his job, that’s all that matters. Those players are getting paid very well. If they don’t want to play, they can be insurance adjusters or night watchmen. Or whatever. I hear brick layers are in demand.”
By ranallo10
April 15, 2008 1:00 AM | Link to this
Why should we return players who had little or no positive effect on the team this past season, because what do they offer different for Next season…
LAC — I’ll answer that one simply…I feel the two players I mentioned (White and Slater) were fine, and replacing their production is more difficult than simply calling up a player.
White was miscast, yet scored 30+ points, Slater was a fourth-liner, and played fine as well. Slater is up tempo, forechecks, and occasionally scores (if he squeezes his eyes shut really really tight). He played a fourth line role for the majority of the season, a role that averages something like 9 minutes per game and isn’t filled with top scorers typically.
I don’t disagree with you on Larsen, Klee, Zhitnik, etc…but +/- isn’t the best reason to just set a Thrasher loose. How many regulars were a + for the Thrashers this season?
One, Niclas Havelid.
So is +/- really a fair stat to point at and say “this is the reason they need to go”? Compare them to their teammates, and maybe you have a fairer barometer…but it’s still a single stat that is being used out of place. As for production, WHO ON THIS TEAM PRODUCED?? Two did (maybe three with Recchi), and they’re the franchise players (Enstrom and Kovalchuk). So you feel we should simply cut ties with everyone on the team? Just scratch them all and literally play the AHL roster in Atlanta?
I digress, White can play third line, Slater fourth line, and THEY WOULD NOT IMPEDE ONE YOUNG TALENTED PLAYER IN THE SYSTEM. Who would you call up? Doell? Deveaux? Would it serve a purpose to place Esposito on the ice for 9 minutes per game?
So, why eat their salary just because you don’t like them, or feel they’re underperforming? White scored 37 points (more than Holik), had a -12 (more than Holik), had 36 PIM (54 less than Holik), and 4 GWG (1 more than Holik), 2 of them being in OT (2 more than Holik). They’re different style players, but what I’m trying to show you is he’s a serviceable third line center, priced to stay, and can excel in that role.
But just because I feel two of the players you selected aren’t throw away players, doesn’t mean I’d simply allow everyone back and accept losing…talk about over-exaggeration.
So, LAC, why do you assume I feel Waddell is doing things the right way? Do you not realize that 9/10 people who post here happen to agree with your frustration towards the GM, and the ownership group? I’m asking for people’s opinions and how they would fix this franchise, assuming the current restrictions of inept ownership and average GM are in place as of July 2nd. I understood yours with cutting ties on many players who are underperforming and starting anew, I simply disagreed with two of the players you singled out…doesn’t make me disagree with you on a whole, just on those two players.
By LAC
April 15, 2008 5:46 AM | Link to this
Ranallo, checked and here stats.
Larsen 62 GP 1 G 4 A -17. Slater 69 GP 8 G 5 A -10. White 74 GP 14 G 23 A -12.
So 23 Goals, 32 Assists -39.
That differencial is only 16.
That is my reasoning, Slater is a below average player, Larsen very poor player and White should be in AHL.
What I am trying to say is this… These players are NOT working here. Simple, we can replace with other younger players who are hungry to win, I question their wanting to.
Then we see Vancouver firing their GM after winning seasons and waddell STAYS ???????
What is WRONG with this picture ??
No other OWNER in the NHL would keep waddell for a second longer, he is and has been a complete failure and to think these owners want to keep him is NUTS !
Just shows theteams who want to WIN in the NHL and teams that do not want to WIN, we have a GM and owners who do NOT want to win and are not willing to p[ay the price in terms of QUALITY players and QUALITY GM…
Simply way beyond belief how this team is run and it is running our best player OUT OF TOWN and the team straight into the ground.
Again Ranallo, we were bad this season, we do not need to bring back the bad players from the team, now is THAT moving ahead ???
I guess we have the don waddell infinity plan here with no winning in the future and aint that great !
By LAC
April 15, 2008 5:57 AM | Link to this
Lastly here is Vancouver’s announcement on their website about the firing of Noris…
Read carefully…
Vancouver, BC - The Vancouver Canucks announced today that Dave Nonis has been relieved of his duties as the team’s General Manager & Sr. Vice-President. The Canucks finished the 2007-08 season with a record of 39-33-10 and missed the playoffs for the second time in three seasons.
“The decision to relieve Dave of his duties was difficult,” explained Francesco Aquilini, Chairman, Vancouver Canucks. “We want to thank Dave for the many contributions he has made helping to build our organization during his tenure. However, I think this important change in leadership is critical to the future of the team and the direction we need to take. It’s not acceptable to our fans or to us as owners that our team isn’t in the playoffs.”
“As owners we made a commitment to deliver the kind of hockey our fans deserve. At the same time, with leadership comes responsibility. So, our search begins today for a new general manager, and our focus going forward is on a winning season in 2008-09.”
They did exactly what Atlanta needs to do, did you see the “critical point in the franchise” comment ?
How about “Winning hockey our fans deserve”
Responsibility ?????????????????????
Here is Atlanta ? don waddell responsible ????
Just how much more proof do these IDIOT owners we have need to pull the plug on waddell once and for all ???
This is what we have to do ! Really how much more of don waddell can this team stomach ??????
I wish like hell we had STRONG ownership that wants to win, but we are stuck with Losers & Liars and for that we will be a loser until the team is finally sold… but will they stay in Atlanta then ?
These owners here need to wake up now and understand what is really going on and how much waddell is ruining the Thrashers !!!!!
By LAC
April 15, 2008 6:35 AM | Link to this
Did a bit more reading on the Noris firing.
Bob McKenzie, very well respected and knowledgeable guy at TSN, had this comment in his response to the Noris firing… again read carefully !
As A Rule GM’s are given 5 YEARS, unless teams is being run into the ground, so what are we now on the 11th year of waddell’s infinity plan ????
This clown is so out of his league it’s awful and other GM’s know he is weak and worthless and a loser…
So don do THE RIGHT THING, call another press confrence and RESIGN for the sake of the team and most of all THE FANS !!!!
We deserve a whole lot better than an IDIOT like you waddell !
By Hookybob
April 15, 2008 7:15 AM | Link to this
Rawhide’s blogs are like the “Everyready Bunny”. Thanks bloggers.
That was a pretty good starting line-up of ex-Thrashers making good in the playoffs. Good players have come through here. Some may even have developed a bit. Why does mgmt let the move on (even push them out the door)?
Tony C might be on to something when he blogged about people relocating to Atlanta and keeping loyalties with their “old hometown” team. Perhaps this is the fan that the Thrashers mgmt want to put in the seats. What better way than to put a poorly coached, demoralized product on the ice for their “old hometown” team to beat up on?
Rawhide, thanks for keeping us up to date on what happening with our prospects. As a fan I now must look ahead. A future that has potential is my best medicine. So what has to be done to develop and keep those players?
Go Blue prospects!
By Bob
April 15, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this
That was a pretty good starting line-up of ex-Thrashers making good in the playoffs. Good players have come through here. Some may even have developed a bit. Why does mgmt let the move on (even push them out the door)?
That’s been one of the biggest red flags to me, about Waddell’s competence, or lack thereof, as GM of this club. Since the early years, he’s pushed guys that produced here out the door, over money.
It goes back to the early years when we finally had some guys that produced, Audette, Brunette, Staios. Waddell said these guys weren’t worth the money they wanted and pushed them out the door, and even got little to no value for them. I worried then of the effect that would have in future years of too much turnover in the roster leading to little to no team cohesion (sound familiar to anyone?) and that it would lead to future good players wanting to get out of town since they saw this club wouldn’t keep it’s core players intact (sound familar to anyone that watched Heatley and Hoss demand out of town? Anyone doubt that Kovy is next? Think Kari has fun getting shelled each night backstopping Waddell’s roster?). If I was Kari, I’d have my agent working back channels to dig up an RFA offer sheet out there.
This can all be traced back to Waddell’s basic inability to recognize, retain, and attract talent to this club. Mind boggling that he hasn’t been fired years ago, much less today.
At least the Spirit’s decision to keep Waddell will save me a lot of money and time next year instead of wasting another year as a season ticket holder. But you know what, it’s going to cost me a higher price, it’s going to cost me the enjoyment (that you can’t put a price on) of having a solid hockey club that I can be proud of and support financially. It’s a damn shame as it’s all completely fixable if they would remove the one basic defect in this club, the incompetent GM and his incompetent organization of scouts and coaches that he’s built.
By A$G
April 15, 2008 9:57 AM | Link to this
You people will never get it. The asg will never spend money on new players or new gm’s PLEASE pay attention this summer. They will not spend. They will do a little to keep fans a little interested but that will be all.
EMPTY SEATS OR KOVY’S departure, which will lead to empty seats, is the only thing that will change the situation. This is about $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$.
By UpperDeck4Life
April 15, 2008 9:58 AM | Link to this
Rawhide just a little under the table info I have heard on Savard, that money wasn’t the only reason that Atlanta let him walk. Appreantly the penalties and some lockerroom stuff didn’t help when contract time came. Just stuff I have heard, I want to say I trust my friend, but this is second hand so….
On Coburn, I think that is looking like a sure top 5 worst move for this fanchise for a long time; especially after the season that Zhitnik put in and the fact that he is about to either be bought out or waived.
On the Nonis front, nope, don’t want any part of him. If I get a pick, I want Jarmo Kekalainen, the Blues Asst. GM and dir. of scouting. He was the Sens dir. of pro players for awhile and helped build that franchise till leaving for the Blues. Here is his Bio, I think he would do a great job, he reminds me a lot of the new Falcons GM. http://blues.nhl.com/team/app?service=page&page=NHLPage&bcid=teafrokekalainen
By Russian
April 15, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this
to Bob If I was Kari, I’d have my agent working back channels to dig up an RFA offer sheet out there
We may be loose Kari on this summer. Detroit needs a Goalie. If he got good price and Don will not get money from Owners, we will Say: “Good Bye and so long for Kari!” :-( I will be very upset if it is happend.
By ranallo10
April 15, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this
LAC — Larsen is dead weight, I agree.
Slater produced 8 goals in a fourth line capacity, playing about 5 games off that line. He was mismanaged, and could be a 3rd line center for many teams. I could see him doing rather well on a team like Buffalo.
What more did you want out of White? Most complain about his lack of what they deem “physical play”, so perhaps it’s that? Maybe you want him to live up to the mis-cast role of top line scorer?
White had as many points as Eric Belanger, but only a -6 worse than a player on a playoff bound team (who played the same role as White did on this current team…miscast top 2 center). White had more points than other centers like Filppula, Stoll, Vasicek, Hanzal, Zajac, Metropolit, J. Staal, Smolinski, Handzus, etc. Yes his plus minus was worse than most of those players, but so was everyone else on this rosters…including Kovalchuk, and Enstrom, our best players. Once again, one + on the roster, and that’s our second best defenseman (Havelid)…every other player either finished + but in the AHL, or was a minus while playing with Atlanta.
If you want White, a third liner, to score like a first liner…then yes, you’re asking too much and you should cut him loose. If you instead move him to his appropriate role (third line center), you have a contracted player who is not directly impeding a checking line talent (well, maybe he’s impeding Slater), that has proven he can produce at a .5pt/game clip, even on a BAD team like Atlanta. What more do you want out of your third line center??
And finally, great stuff on Nonis, it’s evidence that the ASG is rather lost. I still get this feeling they all know they’re in way over their heads, and are trying to simply say the right things until someone slaps them in the face. Perhaps it’s the revolting fans? Perhaps it’s the impending playoff sweep for the Hawks? Perhaps it wont happen for years to come?
By NASCAR Dave
April 15, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this
I agree with LAC here… ALL of those players listed need to go!!! No reason whatsoever to keep ANY of them!
Did you guys hear Don FRAUDell on the Rude Awakening this morning???
What a joke… it was quite amusing to listen to Donnie talk in more circles… Looks like we’re in for another shoddy “patchwork” quick fix job this year… F’in GREAT!!!
But we got another clever Donnie quote when he said something along the lines of “We (the Thrashers) have always been known for our excellent youth in the system.”
HUH? Based on what!?
What a friggin FRAUD this guy is…
By Vito Latagglia
April 15, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this
By now, you gatta be askin’ “How does he do it?” “How does Don Waddell keep his job when he does it so lousy?” It’s easy, he bat my book years ago “7figgasalary4life” and has applied my methods with much success. He’s my greatest sucess story so far and has written a preface on “how to make your boss afraid to fire you” and is the model behind a chapter called “how to keep the boss in the dark on industry issues.”
Youse too can be living “La Vida Loca.”
Stop ya belly-aching Sage and NascarDude and buy my book and youse can have control over ya boss like ya never had before. Who says, “Money can’t buy happines?” Has not read my book!
Wit my book you get a network of contacts that can ensure your sucess. Like, I gatta guy in Jersey named Bruno that makes custom cement boots. It’s a gift that will weigh heavily on someone for a long long time.
But that’s not all….
I can also line youse up wit a guy named “Hal”. He’s got a little atta the way hotel wit a “photography” suite. Whoever said “a pictures worth a thousand words,” Wasn’t kiddin’! You should see the pictures of Levenson!!! LOL!! The bonus package comes with a group of very photogenic midgets and a 500 pound women with 3 nipples. Now that’s priceless!!
So call now!!! Do not delay!! Stop complaining about Mr. Waddell and join him in his sucess!! Don’t be a moron!! Call now!!! 1-800-7FIGGAS!! or go to my website: www.7figgasalary4life.com
Do it now…or I cannot be held, you know, responsible for your well-being, don’tcha know.
By NASCAR Dave
April 15, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this
HEY VITO — Don’t think I wanna buy your book brother.
But if you’d like, you can meet me out back at the toolshed with Waddell and i’ll give both of ya’ a Southern A$$ whoopin’ you’ll never forget…
NUFF SAID.
By NASCAR Dave
April 15, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this
You still have time to speak your mind…
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/replacewaddell/
By The Right Direction
April 15, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this
How many of you are aware that the VP of Marketing for the Atlanta Thrashers came to our organization from the New York Rangers?
Now you know where Believe in Blueland came from, the Blueshirts.
The Thrashers are being marketed as the Rangers South.
Do you still Believe in Blueland?
By Alan
April 15, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this
The Thrashers are being marketed as the Rangers South.
Who cares? Really, I don’t understand why of all the things wrong with this organization, you chose this to bloviate about.
By The Right Direction
April 15, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this
Should marketing decisions be predicated on the four P’s in the Atlanta market or what worked in the New York market.
By FormerIslesFan
April 15, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this
Okay, here is a good read: Scott Cullen at TSN laying out what needs to be done for the Thrashers (and their prime targets) versus what the pantry looks like on the farm.
By The Right Direction
April 15, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this
Can anyone name the one constant in the recent history of the Thrashers pathetic defense?
Examples:
Not developing draft picks at the NHL level in lieu of playing over the hill vets.
One of the worst GF/GA in the league.
Answer: McCrimmon
By ranallo10
April 15, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this
TRD — Regarding McCrimmon, I agree. I don’t feel his “system” was much different than Hartley’s, and thus I don’t support his being hired as head coach. I don’t buy the excuse Recchi is selling of McCrimmon being limited in his capacity to coach. Defensively, he was the man everybody should’ve listened to (based on his career in the NHL, and his coaching position). Well, defensively, this team sucks.
By A$G
April 15, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this
We put crap on ice. You buy it!
By Brendan
April 15, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this
I hope John Anderson (Wolves Head Coach) is still given some consideration. If the Bolts actually fire John Tortorella, or if the ‘Canes cut ties with Peter Laviolette, either would be welcome here, if they were so inclined.
By ranallo10
April 15, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this
Totorella would be nothing but bad for this franchise…we don’t need his ego behind the bench. He really is the whiniest coach in the NHL, and can only arguably coach a team to success.
I’d rather Quinn than Tortorella, and if you remember how against Quinn I am, that should be saying a LOT! I’d rather Keenan than Tortorella. I’d rather Brian Burke live with me than John Tortorella coach this team.
By Brendan
April 15, 2008 5:04 PM | Link to this
Tortorella will preach the “safe is death, pedal to the metal, offense-first, 2-men deep forechecking” that Kovalchuk will absolutely love. The whole offense, designed around him.
By ranallo10
April 15, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this
Brendan — But I worry Tortorella would also turn Kovalchuk into a true primadona…that’s not worth it to me. I’m not impressed by the way Tampa plays, especially finishing last with three star forwards, a fine supporting cast, and a much better defense than Atlanta.
In my opinion, Tortorella deserved to be fired half a season ago, and Atlanta signing him would be a mistake.
By NASCAR Dave
April 15, 2008 5:26 PM | Link to this
But I worry Tortorella would also turn Kovalchuk into a true primadona…that’s not worth it to me.
Don’t worry, Ranollo. Kovy’s walkin outta here in 2 years anyways. Did you read the article by Custance? Kovy’s not happy with “the direction” of the team.
Problem solved.
By Tony C.
April 15, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this
You know what the most annoying thing (about DWs grinding our team into mush) is?
It’s moments like when people who have no idea about hockey but are interested in their city’s sports ask questions like “Yo, what happened to the thrashers? I thought they were supposed to be good?”
Then you tell them about The Accident, and The Great Groin Blowout of Aught-Five…. and they reply:
“Yeah but this Waddell guy, does he read the papers? I read this thing on (fill in the blank with ESPN/TSN/CBSSPORTSLINE/FSN), and it said that all we needed to do was this-and-that….Do the people in charge even read?”
At that point, I usually confess that, no, I don’t believe they do-they may not have the ability.
The other person replies with “Wow. Maybe not huh-we were supposed to be good after the lockout right? Maybe they can’t read.”
Article’s like Cullen’s just reinforce that notion.
Waaah.
P.S. I think Hlavac would be a good move as mentioned in that article. Not like exactly what the Dr. ordered (which would’ve been Gomez or Briere), but a lot better than band-aids.
By ranallo10
April 15, 2008 6:08 PM | Link to this
NASCARDave — If you’re right and Kovalchuk walks, it’ll be a sad day. Personally I’d rather hope something happens that convinces him to stay rather than count the days until he leaves.
Note: I didn’t say “Waddell” or “ASG” when mentioning convincing, but rather the broad “something” leaving the door open for a plethora of scenarios that could possibly involve neither of those entities in 2 years time.
By BG33Brown
April 15, 2008 7:30 PM | Link to this
Vancover Fires GM
Interesting that a GM who under performed would be fired. Seems like a new concept. (I hope you can sense the sarcasm because I am laying it on pretty thick)
By Rawhide
April 15, 2008 7:32 PM | Link to this
ranallo - per your 6:08 pm post, I would venture that if DW is indeed here in two years, Kovy won’t be here eyond that.
Sad indeed.
Tony C. - per your 5:44 pm post - That, my friend, is very true. I’ve had more than my fair share of conversations with friends that start off with, “Hey, what happened to the Thrashers”?
Bob - per your 9:17 am post - Yes indeed, that is a big, fat, hairy red flag to be sure. I hate looking like the NHL’s farm team.
Brendan - your “interview” at 12:13 am was priceless… well done, professor.
HookyBob - “Energizer Bunny”??? LOL! Well, the regulars on this blog do, indeed, do a great job of keeping topics coming!
FIF - Very good link…thanks!
BG33Brown - I know, very interesting though…isn’t it. And after only 3 seasons! Thre seasons with winning records, at that!
Everyone else, I do NOT want Torts here at all. I, too, think his ego and whiney a$$-attitude would be poison.
By ranallo10
April 15, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this
Rawhide — I would also venture to say that if Waddell is here in two years, and Kovalchuk decides to leave, Waddell should be following him out the door.
By LAC
April 15, 2008 8:49 PM | Link to this
Ranallo, good point, however Belanger was here for a third of the season and he rode the pine for several games in Raleigh.
Since about everything went south this season, we do not need a bunch of the same players back next season, what does THAT SAY ?
I also say no to Recchi, we have had way too many old players come in here and NOT produce and he was good at the start, but faded badly as the season wore down.
I just wish waddell was NOT calling the shots, I still cannot phantom how he keeps his job, he is AWFUL !
By Brendan
April 15, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this
Well, maybe Tortorella isn’t the answer. Although, I do think the GM (Feaster) made some missteps along the way that hindered Torts. Like giving up a premier goaltender and overpaying for several players, not just Richards. In the end, he couldn’t overcome it. Just like in ‘05, Atlanta couldn’t overcome its goaltending woes.
I do wonder … just how very different things could have been if Kari hadn’t injured his groin in the 1st period of the 1st game of the season. We only missed the playoffs by 2-points, and we were six games under .500 a week before Christmas that year. So, when KL returned, the Thrashers poured it on. I think they went 13-2-3 during a stretch of that season to reverse their fortunes a bit.
Rawhide, what do you think of this Caps-Flyers series? By the way, you were “right” about projecting Washington as SE division Champion. We never quite revisited that, after everyone thought Carolina had wrapped it up. Philly has had a 2-goal lead in ALL THREE (3) games of this series. Philly could be up, 3-0, right now. Mike Richards scored a monumentally HUGE penalty shot goal for Philadelphia. That 12-year contract of his is looking better and better. Though, the point is, a LOT can change over the space of more than a DECADE.
Rawhide, throughout the year, we’ve discussed whether or not Waddell or bloggers though Holik should return. Let me turn it around now. “Do you think that Holik wants to return?” It’s ultimately HIS decision, if Waddell reaches out to him. I don’t think Waddell can just assume he’s got Holik returning next season. I don’t want him back. And consequently, I’m rooting for him to want to leave and turn any Waddell offer down FLAT. I’m still sitting on the fence about Recchi. How about you? If Recchi comes back, it should be the LAST contract signed.
By Rawhide
April 15, 2008 10:10 PM | Link to this
Brendan - If you are Holik…and there is an offer from a team that is, say…moving in the right direction, are you going to sign with them or say to yourself, “Self, I don’t know…Waddell is still in charge in Atlanta, maybe I want to saty there”…?
Sha-RIGHT!
No, he should not be back unless no one offers a contract to him and then we offer him something like a mil or mil and a half for 1 year.
You thoughts on Recchi I agree with. If he fills the last spot on the roster, OK. I like what he did here, but he is only 2 years my junior. Hey, come to think of it…where are MY skates???? Maybe I could…nah, then who would run this blog?
The Washington - Philly series is really fun to watch, (well, when NBC announcers aren’t rubbing salt in the Cobour/Zhitnik wound, that is)…I still say it goes 7. And Philly could be looking back at the third period of game #1 and shaking their heads at what could have been…
By Brendan
April 15, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this
Anaheim was up, 4-0, on Dallas. But the Stars have closed within 4-2, with 11:00 left in regulation. Colorado is up, 3-0, over Minnesota in the Pepsi Center. Boston couldn’t get one past rookie sensation, Carey Price. Consequently, they lost, 1-0. Habs lead the series, 3-1, as “Maggie the Monkey” beams with pride. SJ trails Calgary, 1-0, after one. Well, if the Flames can hold on, they’ll be up, 3-1. And Ron Wilson and his troops will have to look back at that 3-0 lead they squandered in Game Three as the “denouement.” (French word for “unraveling.”)
I feel bad for San Jose if they lose this series. Ron Wilson is a good coach. It would be quite fitting for him to win the Cup in the same season as his 500th career win. But more importantly, he could shut fans like ME up with comparisons to Marty Schottenheimer, another great ‘regular season’ Coach. This Calgary-SJ game, and series, if far from over.
By HookyBob
April 15, 2008 11:20 PM | Link to this
Brenden: I understand Wilson’s job may be on line if San Jose doesn’t move on to round two. What are your thoughts on him behind the Thrasher bench?
Some are calling for his head on the San Jose Mercury News blog. Makes you wonder about bloggers,..eh?
By NASCAR Dave
April 16, 2008 1:15 AM | Link to this
Dang man. Wilson could be Real Good here. Interesting…
LAC - I agree man. No to Recchi. No to Holik. Out with the old players, in with the new.
There will be more firings here real soon I’m sure. We just have to sit tight and observe and make the right move at the right time.
NASCAR Dave sez keep an eye out for these next few GM firings too… There might be some “surprises”…
By Brendan
April 16, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this
Ron Wilson would be a tremendous addition to the Thrashers organization. He’s got a proven track record. And if he gets a “say-so” in the draft process and in free agency, it can only be an improvement for the organ-I-zation.
Do I think it’ll bring a Stanley Cup to Atlanta? Well, it he doesn’t win with the lineup he’s got in San Jose, I have to begin to wonder. He took a very good Capitals teams to the Finals in 1998, as well.
Coaches with 500 career wins do not grow on trees. I’d be kidding myself to think Wilson would come to Atlanta, to get the Stanley Cup “monkey off his back.”