AJC > Sports Thrashers > Blog > Archives > 2008 > April
April 2008
Toronto’s A Tough Crowd, Too
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I found this Scott Burnside piece the other day and thought I would toss it into the ring of discussion. What I wish to draw your attention to would be item #4, the part about Pat Quinn and his success with Canada’s Under18 World Championship team. Their 8-0 success leads Burnside to wonder if Quinn’s stock has risen in the eyes of some NHL franchise given this success with the young players.
Well, given that our team is one of those currently accepting applications for a new head coach, lets nose into Mr. Quinn’s resume some, shall we?
Now, most of you already know of the history of one John Brian Patrick Quinn, including his five years as an Atlanta Flame. And most have formed an opinion as whether or not he would be a good fit here. Certainly a man with 19 seasons under his belt as a head coach with 15 trips to the post-season and two appearances in the Cup Finals in that capacity deserves a look…especially one who, if memory serves, seemed to be interested in the job here after it became open last fall.
First off, his success this spring with the U18 squad isn’t his first such internationally. In the 2002 Winter Games in Salt Lake City he coached the Canadian team to their first gold medal since the first term of the Eisenhower administration. Then in 2004 he led Team Canada to victory in the World Cup of Hockey going 6-0 in that campaign.
His most recent NHL coaching gig was in Toronto where he amassed a 300-196-52-26 record in seven seasons. After the 2005-06 campaign he was fired following the one and only time a Quinn-coached Leafs team did not qualify for the post-season. That season the team went 41-33-8 for 90 points…missing the 8th seed in the Eastern Conference by 2 points.
(Trivia question: Who else in the east finished the ‘05-‘06 season with the exact same 41-33-8 record for 90 points)?
So…Quinn compiled 7 winning seasons in as many seasons in Toronto…averaging almost 97 points…twice took Toronto to the conference finals…never finished lower than 90 points…three times with 100 points or better…and the one and only time he fails to make the playoffs… he gets the pink slip.
Wow…and I thought Vancouver was a tough crowd!
Yeah, remember David Nonis being shown the gate a few weeks back after general managing the Canucks to three straight seasons with winning records but only making the post-season once. Horrible…simply horrible! I mean…only one trip to the playoffs in three seasons? I mean, it’s not like it he had a single post-season appearance in…oh… a decade’s worth of work yielding zero post-season wins…but I digress.
Back to the point… Quinn also has experience as a general manager. In Vancouver he held that position from ‘87 to ‘91 before he was able to return to coaching, (he was banned from serving behind the bench during that time by then NHL President John Ziegler). Also, much of his time with Toronto he was both head coach and general manager.
Hmmm, that sounds familiar…so, it CAN be done successfully?
Thus, Pat Quinn’s resume shows years of head coaching experience with success as well as proven results in the front office. And, it seems, he wants to have a go at it down here.
Personally, I am very interested in what he could bring to the team. Not just as a head coach but as a general manger…if Bruce Levenson were ever to be struck by lightning and have an ounce of hockey sense bolted into his head causing him to think to himself, “Gee, a decade with the same GM and no playoff wins to show for it? Maybe this is un-good”.
Wandering off, he may then say, “Gosh, that hurt…I’m so woozy I don’t know if I’m heading in the right direction or not”.
Anyway, I’d like to see a Pat Quinn coached Thrashers team.
Of course, I’d LOVE to see a Thrashers team coached by John Anderson who was hired by general manger Pat Quinn.
Chances of that happening? I dunno…what’s the forecast?
Riddle Me This
So, what do the Atlanta Thrashers and the Pittsburgh Penguins have in common?
Neither team has lost a game in the post-season this spring!
Yup, the Penguins skated to a 5-3 victory in Madison Square Garden Tuesday night and took a 3-0 series lead over the Rangers. This after sweeping the Ottawa Senators in the opening round.
Marian Hossa had a goal with an assist and has 3 goals and 8 points so far in the seven games played after the Thrashers season ended. Pascal Dupuis chipped in with a helper himself on Hossa’s tally and has a goal and 4 points overall.
Pittsburgh fans that may feel led to may send “Thank You” cards and other well wishes to:
The Atlanta Thrasher / Atlanta Spirit LLC
101 Marietta Street
Suite 1900
Atlanta, GA 30303
Attn: Don Waddell
Sharks On The Endangered Species List
Following the 2-1 OT loss in Dallas Tuesday night the San Jose Sharks now find themselves in the deep waters of a 3-0 series abyss. As you know, your humble blog host picked the Sharks to win the Stanley Cup this year…but it ain’t looking so good right now. I picked them because I liked their team defense so much but so far it’s the Stars blueline that is shining!
Should San Jose fall short at this point it would be their 3 consecutive second-round exit from the Great Cup Quest after making it to the conference finals in ’03-’04. This is considered disappointing considering the fact that the Sharks have finished with over 100 points in each of those seasons except ’05-’06 when they gained 99.
There have been some rumblings about Ron Wilson’s job being on the line if they failed to shake the “under-achiever” tag this spring, (again, we could have it so bad). If so, we’ll kick his name around here..oh…next week sometime.
5 from 65 = 5 from 9
Not to rub any more salt in this wound but…Braydon Coburn has 5 assists in nine playoff games so far this post-season with the Philadelphia Flyers. Alexei Zhitnik had 5 assists in the 65 regular season games he played for Atlanta this past season.
Just sayin’….
Considering The Krog Question
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Jason Krog won the AHL MVP award while playing for the Chicago Wolves this past season. The 32-year old native of Fernie, British Columbia finished the regular season with 39 goals and 112 points, (best in the league, 24 better than the second highest), with a +16 rating in 80 games played. His efforts help the Wolves to an AHL Western Conference best 53-22-2-3 record.
Given that, here are two questions for you:
First, seeing that Krog is a UFA this summer, do you let this type of production simply walk away?
Yes, I know…he’ll be 33 at the beginning of next season, so he’s not exactly a spring chicken…and at 5-11, 185 lbs he is sort of Todd White-ish. Also, he has had limited success at the NHL level. His best efforts came with the Anaheim Ducks in ’02-’03 and ’03-’04 where he accumulated 16 goals and 27 assists in those season combined.
But the second question is…
If he was having such a bang-up season there…why was he not given more of a chance to help us here last winter? I mean… that’s a lot of production numbers that could have been put to use in Atlanta.
He hit the cap for $475,000 last season, so do you offer half a mil…maybe $600,000… to Krog and give him a shot to make the team? Or is this just another cast away in your opinion?
Chicago Wolves Advance
A 3-0 win in game six of their playoff series versus the Milwaukee Admirals sends the Wolves to the next round of the AHL playoffs. Ondrej Pavelec recorded 30 saves for the shutout and Boris Valabik scored 2 of the goals, one of them as the Wolves were on the short side of a 5 on 3.
Artuis “Woulda” Kulda tallied the Wolves first goal and it was the 19-year old’s first professional goal. Bryan Little had an assist in the win as well.
Chicago will now face the Rockford IceHogs in the West Division Finals.
So…What’s More Likely To Happen?
I’m not saying that any of the following WILL happen, but…
What is more likely… that the Pittsburgh Penguins will win the Stanley Cup in 4 consecutive sweeps, or the Montreal Canadiens winning it but needing all 7 games in each of the four series to do it?
What is more likely… that Don Waddell will used the #3 pick in the draft to pick the best defensive player available, (or center), or using it to trade for an established player of the same kind?
What is more likely to cause a sickly feeling in your stomach…watching as Marian Hossa and Pascal Dupuis skate around the rink holding the cup or Braydon Coburn doing so, (especially knowing that we are still on the hook for Alexei Zhitnik and his $3.5 million hit to next year’s cap)?
What is more likely to happen first…the Atlanta Thrashers winning their first ever playoff game with Don Waddell as the general manager, or the Atlanta Hawks winning their first playoff game with Billy Knight as the GM of that team?
Trixie slides a note under Rawhide’s nose
Huh? What this?…When did this happen? You’re kidding me, right? They did? Against the Celtics…in Philips Arena? Really…wow! Well then…OK.
Ummmmm… never mind!
We’re No. 19! We’re No. 19!
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
That’s right folks…you thought we were number 28 in the NHL…Nope, guess again. We are No. 19!!
ESPN has put out this year’s “Ultimate Standings: Fan Satisfaction Rating”. It ranks the 122 professional sports franchises in the NHL, NBA, MLB and NFL based upon how well they provide a quality product for you, the fans… for all of the time, love and money you devote your favorite team.
The Thrashers rank 19th best of the 30 NHL teams and #70 overall, (last year Le Thrash held the 55th position). The two areas that scored closest to the bottom for the team are coaching, (101), ownership, (94) and players, (93). What was the highest? Stadium Experience was 34th best. Yup…. Blueland ROCKS!!
Cited as “what went wrong” this season…”First, GM Don Waddell Fired Bob Hartley after Atlanta’s 0-6 start and took over the coaching duties, (in the end, a bad move)”.
Ya think?
So, how did the other three local teams make out? Well, the Braves came in at 21, the Hawks at 86 and the Falcons are 119.
Oh, and the Toronto Maple Leafs? 121…ahead of only the New York Nicks.
Looking For A Career Change?
There are many among us who feel as though they could do a much better job at general managing the Thrashers than Mr. Waddell. Well, here’s your chance to prove it!
Train to be a real-life, honest-and-for-true GM or scout for just $1,450.00, ($45 additional for international book shipment). Hurry now, payment plans are available starting at just $495.00 per month!!!
The course is only 8 weeks long. So, sign up today and you can be ready to go by the beginning of the season should the position come available!
Or, you could just start selling port-a-potties and work your way up…it’s been done before.
CC On HFRadio
Holly Gunning, who does a great job at Thrasher Prospects Annex, found this interview that our own Craig Custance did on HFRadio. The link takes you to the site where you can listen to CC speak about the upcoming draft and the young players in the system. It’s about 8 minutes or so.
Nice job, Holly…thanks for finding and sharing!
I Only Have One Question
Yahoo Sports’ Thrashers Team Report pretty much sums up the past season for Atlanta, (as if we really needed it). But after reading it…I do have one tiny, itsy-bitsy question.
Who was the first and second worst front office boss?
Colorado Cardiac Cases
After Thursday’s 4-3 loss to Detroit in the first game of the series, six of the seven games played by the Colorado Avalanche in this post season have been one-goal affairs. The first three were of the overtime variety. I certainly hope the cardio wings of the Denver hospitals are well staffed!
Must Have Had A Dinner Date
The Montreal Canadiens’ Tom Kostopoulos netting the game winner just 48 seconds into overtime to fell the Philadelphia Flyers 4-3 in the opening game of their second round series. I guess he had a dinner date or was double-parked. Either way, he made sure the match did not go too deep into the night. Helping Montreal’s cause was their defense keeping Daniel Briere and Vaclav Prospal off of the score sheet.
Just Toying With ‘Em
After spotting the New York Rangers a 3-0 lead in the second period, the Pittsburgh Penguins then got down to business netting four straight on their way to a 5-4 win. Marian Hossa and Pascal Dupuis were both in on the scoring action. Dupuis scored Pittsburgh’s second goal on a pass from Sidney Crosby and Hossa’s came from a wicked-sharp angle. The Pens first and second goals were separated by 14 seconds and their third and fourth were but 20 seconds apart. Evgeni Malkin notched the game winner
Star-Struck Sharks
The Dallas Stars were only able to get 18 shots through on goal against Evgeni Nabokov and the San Jose Sharks, but that’s all they needed. Brenden Marrow scored at the 4:39 mark of overtime to take game one of that series Friday night…er, make that early Saturday morning our time. It was his second of the game and 5th of the playoffs. Jonathan Cheechoo had tied the game with 3:02 left in the third to send the game into the extra period.
OK, so that’s four games so far in round two…all decided by one goal and half of them requiring overtime. Maybe Denver isn’t the only city that will need the cardio wings of their hospitals fully staffed and at the ready.
Second Round Bracketology
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
OK kids… time to roll into the second round of the playoffs. But first, take a look back at your first round predictions and see how ya did.
Me? Well, the un-good news is that I only got 4 out of 8 correct. The good news is that the four I was able to accurately project, (Montreal, Pittsburgh, Detroit and San Jose), are the teams I predicted would win in the second round and advance to the conference finals!!!!
So…the Rawhide bracket LIVES!
In this round, I’m going to be paying particular attention to the men between the pipes. Teams have ridden hot net-minder to championships before and this year there are a few that teams could do just that with.
Here’s my picks for round two…if I only bat .500 again, I hope that it’s Montreal and San Jose who come through for me as they are my picks to make the finals.
East
#1 Montreal vs. #6 Philadelphia: First of all, hats off to Boston for taking their round one bout with the Canadiens to a game 7 after dropping behind 3 games to 1. Their play was what playoff hockey is supposed to be all about. Montreal net-minder Carey Price finished the seven game series with a 2.09 GAA and .925 SV% however he had a couple of forgettable third periods. It doesn’t get any easier as Briere, (6 goals & 5 assists), Prospal, (3 goals & 6 assists), and a very dynamic Flyers offense will be attacking him in waves. Look for a fun-filled couple of weeks full of 4-3 and 5-4 kind of games.
Montreal in 7
#2 Pittsburgh vs. #5 New York Rangers: The Penguins haven’t played since the 16th when they kicked Ottawa to the curb in four straight. Inevitably this brings the question about whether it’s a good thing or not to sit that long. However their opponents, the New York Rangers, have had a bit of rest themselves having done away with New Jersey last Friday night. Marc-Andre Fleury earned a .955 SV% and 1.26 GAA in the four games against the Senators. His counterpart didn’t boast such figures in round one…but Henrik Lundqvist finished the regular season with a 2.23 GAA and .912 SV%. The two teams should kick off any rust they’ve incurred early on and play a tough series.
Pittsburgh in 6
West
#1 Detroit vs. #6 Colorado: Looks like Mike Babcock decision to go with Chris Osgood in games five and six was the right call, eh? Osgood turned away 53 of the 54 shots he faced versus Nashville for a .981 SV% and .039 GAA. I think we will see more of him against Colorado. Jose Theodore was no slouch either in his six games against Minnesota as he played all 383:14 of that series that included 3 overtimes and 5 one-goal games. He finished with a 1.88 GAA and .940 SV%. The Avs will have to improve on the 33.3 SA/G they allowed Minnesota or they will get buried by the potent Red Wings attack.
Detroit in 6
#2 San Jose vs. #5 Dallas: Offense could be at a premium in this series as the two teams combined for the two lowest SA/G of the sixteen teams that played in the first round, (23.0 for the Stars and 23.1 for the Sharks). This makes life easier for both goalies. Marty Turco worked a 2.01 GAA .912 SV% against the Ducks and looked very sharp. San Jose’s Evgeni Nabokov will need to be sharper than the 2.45 / .895 numbers versus Calgary. I have to honest with you…even though I picked the Sharks to go to, and win, the finals…this series scares me. If there is an upset to pick in this round, this is the series. I’m sticking with the Sharks…but I’m feeling as nervous as a seal off the California coast, hoping that I don’t get bit here.
San Jose in 7
There IS Hockey Tonight
The Gwinnett Gladiators have force a deciding game 5 against South Carolina in the ECHL playoffs. For those needed a good hockey fix, the game will be broadcasted at Bogeys on PIB.
Go Glads…Spank the Stingrays!
Making A Point Or…Five
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
First of all, I was at the Big Shanty Festival in Kennesaw all weekend and, as per usual this time of year, failed to apply the necessary sunscreen application. Maybe it’s the winter months and all the nights spent in the cool confines of Philips Arena that freezes the part of my brain that links the words “sun” and “burn” together and, in connecting the two, equates them with “pain”…but, alas, here I am again, as so many prior Aprils, red-faced.
Yes…the Ice Man burneth! Funny thing though, every year the burn seems to include more and more of the forehead and scalp region…go figure!
Anyway, moving right along…
I put this next little ditty up on the Nasty Nest sight last weekend…it was a response to a thread topic put out there regarding how many points an NHL game should be worth. Yeah, yeah…I know, this subject has been kicked to death around these parts before, but I think I have a different twist to it…so stick with me.
Now, as we all know, games are worth either 2 points or 3 points in the standings, depending on whether it goes into overtime or not…and this is somewhat of an inequity for some, myself included. I am of the belief that all games should be worth the same amount of points.
How many times have you been scoreboard watching and thought “Gosh, just as long as Washington/Carolina do NOT go into OT…”? The reasoning being that the Thrashers could be in a three-way race with those two and playing a team outside of the division. Atlanta could trounce their opponent, say, 4-1 while the Caps and Canes played an overtime game. Sure, we gain two points in the standings but the teams we are competing with for the division title earn a total of three between them.
So if you could remedy this, would you simply go with wins and losses regardless of OT or not, scrapping the points system altogether, (the way baseball and basketball do)? Or do you opt for a three point system in which the entirety is given to the winner if in regulation and a 2-1 split should it go to OT? Some would even argue that the “splitting” of points should only occur should the match need a shootout to determine the winner.
Personally, I would go with the points system…BUT if you really wanted to get CRAZY about it, try this out…
Since there are three ways to win a game, (regulation, OT and shootout)…consider a tiered system for doling out the points accordingly by making all games worth 5 points.
Regulation games: 5 to winner 0 to loser…
Overtime games: 4 to winners and 1 to loser…
Shootout games: 3 to winners and 2 to loser…
This way, every time the games slips to another level of tie-breaking, your points chances decrease…thus, theoretically, coaches and players are pushing for that regulation win late in a tie game or pushing for an OT win late in that period…not just satisfied with getting the point, coasting and taking their chances for the extra point in the overtime period.
Plus, greater emphasis is given to beating your opponent outright in regulation, then a little less in OT and the minimum difference dished out for wins going to the shootout.
Yes, I know this would destroy all the records for points earned in a season and change it forever…but that can of worms was already opened up when they started insisting that a “winner” be determined in every game and, thus, giving away extra points.
While I know it is highly unlikely that five-point games will ever bee seen in the NHL in the manner I described above…nevertheless, I toss it out to you for your consideration and thoughts.
PLAYOFF UPDATE
Movin’ On Up Crowd
The New York Rangers became the second team to earn a spot in the second round of The Great Cup Quest of ’08 by defeating the Devils 5-3 Friday night. The Rangers won the series 4-1. With just over seven minutes left in the third, and the Devils down one, New Jersey’s John Madden was awarded a penalty shot but Henrik Lundqvist was able to deny him the trying goal. Jaromir Jagr had a goal and two assists for New York finishing the series with 2 goals and 8 points.
Colorado became the first team out west to join the second round club. Their 2-1 win Saturday night gave them a 4-2 series win over the Minnesota Wild. Avalanche net minder Jose Theodore stopped 34 f the35 shots launched against him…Aaron Voros goal 36 seconds into the second period being the only one to beat him. Ryan Smyth netted the ultimate game winner at 12:20 of that same period. Smyth’s goal was assisted by David Jones, (hey, wasn’t he the lead singer and tambourine player for The Monkees)?
Detroit then followed suit Sunday afternoon with a 3-0 win in Nashville to take that series 4 games to 2. The Red Wings defense limited the Predators to only 20 shots on goal and Chris Osgood was able to turn them all away. Nashville net minder Dan Ellis faced 42 shots after seeing 54 in game five. Detroit averaged 40.3 SOG in the six games played in the series…. Impressive!
The Dallas Stars are moving on up to round two after disposing of the Anaheim Ducks. Their 4-1 win Sunday Night gave them a 4 games to 2 series win. Dallas scored all four goals in the third period to erase a 1-0 deficit after 40 minutes. The Stars defense only allowed the Ducks an average of about 22 shots on goal. So, now both Stanley Cup Finalist from last year have been eliminated in the first round this year.
Hangin’ In There Crowd
The Washington Capitals prevailed in a must-win game over the Philadelphia Flyers Saturday afternoon to the tune of 3-2. Game six is Monday night in Philly. In the loss, Daniel Briere had 2 assists. He now has five goals and nine points in the post-season. Game six is set for Monday night with a game seven Tuesday if needed.
Takin’ It To The Limit Crowd
Calgary forced a game seven in their series with San Jose by beating the Sharks 2-0 Sunday night. Flames keeper Miikka Kiprusoff turned away all 21 Shark attacks on the net. Owen Nolan and Daymond Langkow provided goals for the 7th seeded Flames. Game seven is Tuesday night in the Shark Tank.
Then there are the Boston Bruins…my, my, my! The eight seed found themselves in a 3-1 series hole to the top-seeded Canadiens with game five in Montreal. It’s over, right?
Ummmmmm… no.
After pulling away in the third period of game five to win 5-1, the Bruins returned to Beantown and forced a deciding game seven on Monday by way of an awesome 5-4 see-saw-type game. Phil Kessel, (who was held out of three games earlier in the series), scored two goals and has three for the series as well as an assist. Boston has tallied 4 goals in the third period for two games in a row. Montreal better put these guys away early in game seven or….
You know, it is entirely possible that your humble blog host could go only 2 for 8 in first round predictions depending on the outcome of the three series yet to be decided.
Ouch…now THAT burns!
Twenty Points Ahead
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
By now most of you have read Mark Bradley’s fine piece regarding Don Waddell. In it, the Thrashers general manager pointed to the Philadelphia Flyers as hope for a team that failed miserably one season to leap to the playoffs the next. The Flyers finished with a mere 56 points in the ’06-’07 campaign and then qualified for the post-season this year with 95 points and the sixth playoff seed in the east.
Said Waddell regarding their position a year ago and Atlanta’s 76 points of this past season, “…we’re 20 points ahead of them”.
OK, while I agree that the Flyers are a good model to follow, let’s take a quick look at some of the reasons they were able to elevate themselves out of the muck and mire of the conference cellar and are now poised to enter into the second round of this year’s playoffs.
Well, let’s see…it all began about fourteen months ago when Philly was able to jettison an aging defender and the two-plus years remaining on his contract worth $3.5 million per year to a team desperate to make their initial trip into post-season…a team that had a general manager fearing that failure to do so would cost him his job. The Flyers gained in return a young defender that has contributed greatly to their turn in fortunes.
The player traded away: Alexei Zhitnik
The team they dealt him to: The Atlanta Thrashers
The general manager: Don Waddell
The Player gained in return: Braydon Coburn
Then, they added to their defensive corps Kimmo Timonen and Jason Smith. So, as you can see, the blueline situation was actually addressed…not just given lip service.
Then there is this guy, Daniel Briere that they picked up. He’s a pretty good center in case you haven’t heard. He accounted for 31 goals and 41 assists during the regular season. Not surprisingly, Briere has been instrumental in Philadelphia’s success so far in the opening round of the playoffs, netting 5 goals and 3 assists in four games thus far.
Compare that with the 14 goals and 23 assists from the “answer” we were given to our #1 center position, Todd White.
A few good defenders plus a top line center has equated to 39 more points in the standings and a game away from advancing to the second round of the playoffs behind a defense that went from giving up 3.62 goals per game to just 2.77.
But the problem here is that, while it’s true the Thrashers are 20 better than the Flyers were a year ago, the fact of the matter is that this time last year the Flyers were further along the road to recovery than the Thrashers are now.
That is, unless the team has suckered away a great young blueliner from a team …in return for an aging one that is carrying about $7 million worth of salary …that we don’t know about yet.
But, Waddell at least sees where such a road map to a successful turnaround can be found. The question is, can he follow the route laid out.
Playoff Update
Pittsburgh made short work of Ottawa, sweeping the defending Eastern Champs and outscoring them 16-5 in the process. Marian Hossa notched a goal and four helpers and was a +3 with 24 shots on goal, (9 in game 4 alone). Pascal Dupuis was a +2 with 2 assists.
The Boston Bruins are clinging on for dear life in their series with Montreal. Facing elimination they came away with a 5-1 victory in game five. With the score tied at one in the third period the Bruins went ahead to stay on a goal by Glen Metropolit on their way to a four-goal third. Marc Savard has a goal and 3 assists for Boston so far…his goal the game winner in OT of game 3.
Mike Knuble’s goal 6:40 into the second overtime powered Philly to within a game of advancing to the second round. Jeff Carter scored twice, (the second via a nice pass from Jaroslav Modry), and added a helper on the game winner while Daniel Briere tallied his fifth goal of the post-season. Flyers goalie Martin Biron stopped all 18 shots he faced in the overtime to buy his team the time needed to get the win. Braydon Cobourn earned is third assist in the series. Washington will look to avoid elimination Saturday afternoon back in D.C.
The Dallas Stars find themselves in much the same situation as Philadelphia, leading the defending Stanley Cup Champion Ducks 3 games to 1 after Thursday night’s 3-1 win. Marty Turco was throwing a shutout against Anaheim until Mathieu Schnider scored with eight seconds left…bummer. Turco finished the night with 27 saves on 28 shots.
Looky here, would ya…Minnesota and Colorado played yet another 3-2 game. Four of the five games played so far in this match-up have ended in that score, the previous three times in OT. Game five of the series went to the Avalanche as Peter Forsberg and Milan Hejduk each had 2 assists and Andrew Brunette scored his 3rd goal and fifth point of the series.
Calgary’s comeback attempt fell just short Thursday night and the Sharks took a 3-2 series lead. Trailing 4-1 halfway through the third period the Flames were able to pull to within a goal thanks to goals by Daymond Langkow and David Moss. Jonathan Cheechoo was a man possessed in the beginning of the third scoring twice in the first eight and a half minutes, providing the ultimate margin of victory. San Jose plays for the series win Sunday night.
The Predators travel to Detroit for the pivotal game 5 of the series after taking games 3 and 4 back in Nashville. Is it just me, or are there others out there who would love to see the lone team from the southeastern part of the country pull the upset here?
The Rangers look to end things with New Jersey tonight as the series heads back to the Jersey side of the Hudson with the Devils down 3 games to 1. So far in this match-up, the Rangers are playing the better team defense and getting the better goaltending.
OK, now…go back and count the former Thrashers mentioned above.
Vancouver Is A Tough Crowd
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
OK, I know we covered this a lot the other night, but allow me to revisit the issue in an “official” capacity here. Monday night David Nonis was dismissed of his duties as the general manager of the Vancouver Canucks. How poorly did his team have to perform to cost him his job? Well, let’s examine his the past three season’s worth of work, shall we?
’05-’06: Record of 42-32-8 for 92 points, missing the playoffs by 3 points.
’06-’07: Record of 49-26-7 for 105 points, good enough for the 3rd seed in the Western Conference…making it to the second round where they were ousted by the Ducks who were on their way to the Stanley Cup Championship.
’07-’08: Record of 39-33-10 for 88 points, missing the playoffs by 3 points.
Let’s see, that’s 3 winning seasons averaging 95 points. This past year, the Canucks had the 7th best GAA as a team…yeah, sheeze…what a bum. Toss him out on his ear!
Thank God OUR team didn’t stink up the ice like THAT!
Anyway…
The following was posted on the team’s official web site:
“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.”
Interesting…the ownership felt they needed to change the leadership in order for the team to begin moving in the right direction. Apperently in Vancouver, three straight winning seasons does not constitute such progress. Oh, and they believe that not making the playoffs is…brace yourselves…“not acceptable”.
Also this, “…with leadership comes responsibility”. Fascinating concept, wouldn’t you agree?
But check this out…the last phrase of the statement is, “and our focus going forward is on a winning season in 2008-09.” This is AFTER 3 consecutive “winning” seasons. Hmmm, maybe the definition of success is just a wee-bit different in these parts than it is in western Canada.
Atlanta, Georgia and Vancouver, British Columbia are 2,741 nautical miles apart. However, the NHL franchises of these two beautiful cities could be measures in astronomical units.
NHL Playoff Update
Montreal goalie Carey Price turned away all 27 shots he faced and Patrice Brisebois’ power play goal with 42 seconds left in the second provided all the offense the Canadiens needed as they took a 3 to 1 series lead on the Bruins. Did you see Marc Savard’s nifty save?
Philadelphia held Washington to a Thrasher-esque 19 shots on goal as they beat the Caps 6-3. This was a one-goal game with three minutes in the contest. Daniel Briere scored twice and chipped in a helper for Philly. Washington now trails 2-1 in the series that I hope goes the full seven.
Whoa! Minnesota and Colorado actually played a game that did not require an overtime to determine the winner! Somebody…quick…check for locusts! The end is near! Colorado snowed under Minnesota in a first period, 3-goal avalanche and roll 5-1. Series tied at 2.
San Jose was five minutes away from going down 3-1 in the series against Calgary as they trailed the Flames 2-1. But Jonathan Cheechoo tied it and Joe Thornton netted the game winner with about a dime on the clock. Speaking of a dime…The Calgary Flames were held to ten shots by the San Jose defense. The Sharks give me D-envy!
After dropping the first two at home, the Anaheim Ducks traveled to Big D and took care of business beating the Stars 4-2. Chris Pronger tallied 2 power play goals and had the secondary assist on Todd Marchant’s goal that opened the scoring. The Ducks won despite taking only 15 shots on goal. Man, there’s a whole lot of good defending going on out there, eh?
Hmmm, strong play on the blueline coming from teams that qualified for the post-season. I wonder if there’s a connection there…
Tonight, Nashville and New Jersey look to pull their series even at two-apiece and Pittsburgh will get out the brooms in an attempt to sweep Ottawa right out the door.
Whatcha wanna bet this time next year we are discussing Vancouver in this section of the blog?
Esposito 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!
Peter Laviolette to Atlanta?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
This one just sort of came out of left field … but I found this quick blurb on yahoo sports. It puts forth the rumor that Hurricanes head coach Peter Laviolette could be on his way out of Carolina and on his way to Atlanta. The source cited is the Ottawa Sun, however I have not been able to find it…but that isn’t gonna keep me from spreading it around.
So, what are your thoughts on this little tid-bit?
Great Hockey Weekend Upon Us
This weekend is shaping up to be a wonderful weekend for all lovers of ice hockey. I don’t know about you, but the pantry at the Rawhide abode is well stocked with chips, popcorn and assorted beverages.
Oh yeah…and I mowed the lawn last night. So nothing stands between some great hockey and my eyeballs!
First, we are in the midst of the NCAA Frozen Four being played out in the Mile High city. Last night Boston College wiped UND, (my personal favorite college team), all over the ice to and Notre Dame continues to surprise everyone as they did away with MEEEE-chigan in OT to advance to tomorrow night’s final.
Hockey at this level is always highly entertaining to watch. I wait all year to see these kids skate it out for the championship and they never fail to live up to the expectations!
Then there is the continuation of the NHL playoffs….
Thus far, the Sharks vs. Flames series looks like a hard-hitting, fun-to-watch affair…Joe Sakic notched his NHL leading 8th career playoff OT goal to put the Avs up a game on Minnie-Sooo-Ta…the Blueshirts took care of business “on the road” versus the Devils…Montreal and Pittsburgh look like they are all that AND a bag of po-TA-to chips…Nashville gave Detroit quite a run last night in their opening game and…just who the %#$@& do the Dallas Stars think they are going into Anaheim and shutting down the Ducks like that?
Tonight, Philly and Washington kick off what promises to be quite the entertaining affair!!
So, this evening, I zoom home and become one with the family room sofa as I work the picture-in-picture feature of the TV and the “previous” button on the remote!! Yes, I have loosed up the muscles in the thumb as not to cause serious injury so early on in the playoff season.
Thank You
On behalf of the Divine Mrs. R and her mother, I would like to thank all of you who forwarded your kind and thoughtful words and well wishes! We appreciated it more than you will ever know!
NHL Playoff Bracketology
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
OK kids… time to plunge into the playoffs. The seedings and schedules have been set and now we can delve into a little prognosticatorial opining. (Prognosticatorial, yes I just made that one up…like it)?
Anyway, here is my attempt at NHL bracketology…let’s have yours as well.
FIRST ROUND
East
#1 Montreal vs. #8 Boston: The Habs are monsters right now and Montreal took all eight games between the two. Boston deserves a great deal of credit for landing in the post season after losing Patrice Bergeron early last fall to injury and Marc Savard hasn’t played in a couple of weeks. The only real chance Boston has is to stay out of the sin-bin and play mistake free.
Montreal in 5, (This might be generous to Bah-ston).
#2 Pittsburgh vs. #7 Ottawa: Can there be two teams heading in opposite-er directions right now? This series could see more than it’s fair share of scoring if it goes deep but the Sens chances weren’t helped any when their captain Daniel Alfredsson and forward Mike Fisher were hurt last Thursday playing in Toronto. OK, Hossa…here’s what you’ve been wanting, we’re watching!
Pens in 6…maybe 5.
#3 Washington vs. #6 Philadelphia: Quite possibly could be the most fun of the eight series to watch. Philly finished 7-1-1 in their last nine and Washington won the last seven to surge to the Southeast Division crown and the 3rd seed in the east. Flyers finished one point better than did the Caps, but I don’t know too many people outside of southeastern Pennsylvania who are going against Ovie and Co. now.
Capitals in 7 wild games.
#4 New Jersey vs. #5 New York Rangers: The Devils won their one and only game in eight versus the Blueshirts just this past weekend to gain home ice in the Hudson River series. Scott Gomez’s first playoff series as a Ranger comes against his former team. This is really a “pick-‘em” match-up to me, but in the end I’ll take the Devils defense and Marty Brodeur against a team that has struggled offensively at times this year…as if New Jersey’s offense is much better?
Jersey in 6 low-scoring games.
West
#1 Detroit vs. #8 Nashville: Low and behold the southeast region of the U.S. will be represented in the post-season. Nashville, having played the Wings eight times, will have familiarity of the Red Wings to help them…and that could be worth a game or possibly two. But it will only prolong the inevitable. Detroit is stacked and going deep in the playoffs barring something just shy of the supernatural.
Detroit wings by in 5.
#2 San Jose vs. #7 Calgary: Augh! I’m torn here. The Sharks are my pick to make the finals from the left coast, but I hate going against the old hometown boys. And what’s not to like about Iginla, Phaneuf, Kiprusoff and that ilk. However, I will take logic over emotion here. Brian Campbell adds to an already impressive Sharks defense. But Calgary is not without playoff-tested talent, a few former Sharks, (can you say “motivation” boys and girls? I knew you could…) and has the ability to swing the upset here…but won’t.
San Jose in 6 physical games.
#3 Minnesota vs. #6 Colorado: A few weeks back you could have been blindfolded and thrown darts at the logos of 4 teams in the Northwest and had a good a chance of picking the eventual winner. But the Wild got hot at the right time and have no problems playing in, and winning, close games. Peter Forsberg wasn’t able to do a lot for Nashville this time last year but the Avs are hoping for the return of his past glory in Colorado this spring. Get out the Ben-Gay.
Minnie-SOOooo-tah in 7 entertaining games.
#4 Anaheim vs. #5 Dallas: Again, two teams that were heading in diametrically opposed ways of late. The Ducks finished with the third best record in the west, and tied for fourth best in the league with Pittsburgh. Brad Richards should help Dallas, even though he tended to fade down the stretch after his 5-point debut and Sergei Zubov’s absence will be felt. In the end, I think the Ducks blueline…anchored by the likes of Scott Niedermayer, Chris Pronger, Mathieu Schneider and Francois Beauchemin…will be too much for Dallas. Oh, and there is this guy named J.S. Giguere, too.
Duck waddle their way through in 6.
SECOND ROUND
We’ll break these series down in a few weeks when the first round is over, but to complete my bracket…
East
Montreal over Devils
Pittsburgh over Washington
West
Detroit over Ducks
San Jose over Minnesota
CONFERENCE FINALS
Habs over Pens
Sharks over Wings
STANLEY CUP WINNERS
San Jose Sharks
And now, your turn in 5…4…3…2…1….(wait for it)….GO!
‘07-‘08 Post Mortem Pt. 3 of 3
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Again we find Rawhide in the morgue…he has retrieved the remains of “’07-’08 Corpus Thrashers” from the cooler and begins the final discussion of its demise.
Finally, we come to the root cause of what went wrong with this past season. Previously we explored some symptoms…but today, we deal with the source.
It stems forth from the office of the general manager.
Now, I first have to point out that Waddell is, for as much as I can tell, a very nice, personable guy. Most people who I talk to who know Don… like him. The two times I’ve met him he has been very cordial to me. So this isn’t a personal thing. But the fact of the matter is that with positions of responsibility comes accountability. Ask Bob Hartley.
But when you dig around in this cold body that was this past Thrashers season, you will find that everything leads back to one place, the GM’s office.
Who was responsible for the players that were put on the ice? Waddell.
Who did not adequately address the blueline and #1 center positions last summer? Waddell.
Who put the “smaller”, “faster” product on the ice? Waddell.
Who decide to fire Bob Hartley six games in? Waddell.
Who talked ownership into allowing him to stay behind the bench instead of hiring a new head coach, (as Bruce Levinson has confirmed)? Waddell.
Who was not able to convince Marian Hossa that the organ-I-zation was committed to winning and making strides in that direction? Waddell.
Who is it that cannot seem to attract big-name defensive players to Atlanta? Waddell.
Who has been the one constant in the 10-year history of a franchise who has seen it’s team outscored by opponents seven out of nine seasons, with one playoff appearance and yet to win it’s first playoff game? Yes, Don Waddell.
You get the picture.
This is not even to say that everything Don Waddell has done has been bad. I thought he handled the Danny Heatley as well as could be expected given the situation and the moves he made prior to last year’s trade deadline helped propel Atlanta to the post-season, (although we seemed to have paid that piper this season).
Last February, I had voiced concern regarding the deal that sent Marian Hossa and Pascal Dupuis to Pittsburgh in return for two forwards, a center in the juniors and a draft pick. Now, looking at it without the fog of playoff possibilities, I think we did pretty well, (and Waddell does deserve credit in that aspect). But what I questioned at the time was why, when we possessed the player held in highest regard for trading, why did the GM not move to get help where it was desperately needed in return? How could Don Waddell tell us that this team was still poised for a run at post-season with the defensive corps we had assembled? Made no sense at the time.
But what caused me to scratch my head more than that was all the comments implying that trading for a…say, Brian Campbell…was a bad idea because he would only be a rental player and we would see him walk this summer, thus we would lose Hossa for nothing.
I thought to myself…”What the…”?
However, in retrospect, that very thought process was dead on the money. I mean, if you are Brian Campbell, or any other top UFA defender, and you’re looking at $7-8 million in Atlanta or the same amount in, I dunno, Montreal or San Jose or New York or Calgary….where you gonna go?
And if indeed the answer is not Atlanta…then isn’t that the most damning piece of evidence regarding what the problem is and where it emanates?
Certainly the problem isn’t the city. Atlanta is one of the premier markets and one of the greatest places to live. The issue isn’t the location…it’s the organ-I-zation.
And who has been in the one person in position to shape the perceived status of said organ-I-zation since its inception?
That’s right…Don Waddell.
Now, unlike the second part of this post mortem, I think most people share my observations the Don Waddel should be dismissed as GM. But the one group of people who can make the change that so many feel are necessary are those in the Atlanta Spirit Group. And if you take Bruce Levenson’s word for it…that change will not be forthcoming.
This is a scary proposition. For if he does give Waddell another season, what gives anyone the faith that anything will be different? Because the next time he places the primary focus on defense as the foundation from which to build a winning franchise…it will be the first time!
This team faces the prospect of “rebuilding” for the future. Every franchise does that, is the nature of the business. However in most instances the rebuilding comes after a prolonged run of success. The Thrasher will enter it’s second decade of existence needing to “rebuild”…and the run of success it can point to is… being swept in the first round of last year’s playoffs after barely missing post-season the year before.
And that’s about it.
If Waddell is indeed given the job of rebuilding this team…I fear we will not see a re-birth of the franchise. Rather it will be more like something Dr. Frankenstein would construct…digging up these remains, injecting new, artificial life into it…and we will be here again at the end of another season similar to this and rehashing the same findings in yet another post mortem autopsy.
I hope I’m wrong. Yes, I do hope that my fear of no changes being made in the general manager position is proven incorrect. Moreover, if indeed Don Waddell’s services are retained for another season in that capacity, I hope we are proven wrong and he brings in, finally, a couple of bluliners that will make a major impact for us and I hope he addresses, finally, the #1 center position.
But alas…
zipping up the corps of the ’07-’08 Thrashers season…
We are looking at the remains of his work.
gravediggers come and take the body away for burial
Put this one in the farthest corner of the cemetery. Make sure the hole is deep…10 feet, no…10 miles deep! If you strike bedrock or oil…keep digging. I don’t want this ever coming back to haunt us again.
‘07-‘08 Post Mortem Pt. 2 of 3
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Again we find in the morgue, standing over the cold body of the Thrashers ’07-’08 season, scalpel in hand…Rawhide in smock, rubber gloves and mask.
Continuing with our autopsy…Today could get messy, so if you’re the squeamish type, you may wish to stay toward the rear.
Today’s topic of discussion: Coaching. Or better stated, the lack-thereof.
Last October, general manager Don Waddell decided to hit the panic button after the team’s 0-6 start and relieved Bob Hartley of his head coaching duties. At that time I wrote that judgment of the move would be withheld depending on who was brought in as Hartley’s replacement. Now I can make crystal clear what those of you who frequent this blog have probably already come to surmise.
It was the wrong move to make and it was a big part of why we are looking at this carcass now.
Now, I know I am probably of the minority opinion on this, but my reasons are thus…first of all, there were several new faces on the roster and six games into the campaign is not enough time to adequately judge the team, even though the stats were quite ugly. Even Don Waddell himself had indicated that he would wait at least ten games before making an evaluation. He made it 60% of the way there. Coach Hartley was given a smaller, “faster” squad to deal with. As we now know, it was not one that was destined to succeed. Getting outshot on a regular basis, as they were in those first six games, turned out to be the norm…not simply the product of Hartley’s system.
Also, in coach Hartley, the Thrashers had found the one person that can be attributed any measurable success in the team’s history. When he was hired in January of 2003, he inherited a team that had trudged through 3-1/2 season of losing in their initial years. It had started out 8-20-4-1 before letting the team’s initial coach go. Hartley then directed that team to a 20-14-5-1 record to finish the year with 74 points, (20 points better than the previous season). Over the course of the next three seasons the Thrashers elevated their success. First to 78 points in ’03-’04 and then 90 and 97 points in the first two season after the lockout culminating in their one and only appearance in the playoffs.
That, boys and girls, is an example of “incremental progress”.
One would think that this past history of such success would have earned him the opportunity to right the ship. After all, two years ago the team got off to a slow start, (4-9-1), and Hartley then guided that squad to within a Mike Dunham “phone in” from earning a playoff spot. However he is the one and only person who, to date, has been held accountable for this year’s debacle.
One of the knocks against Hartley was that some described him as a “hard [butt]”. True enough. But the fact of the matter, in my humble opinion, is that the one major thing this team sorely lacked over this past season was discipline. Not the type of “discipline” that sees a “coach” throw down is gloves and stick on the practice ice and berate them verbally. That, my friends, is simply losing the governance of one’s passions and venting frustration.
The type of discipline I am referring to, as any parent understands, is the type of action that leads to correcting an attitude and directing the subject of the discipline onto the correct path. One way might be to sit your star forward on the far end of the bench…the seat of shame, if you will…because he was dogging it on a shift or two. Ask Mr. Kovalchuk about that…then take a look at the type of maturity he displayed throughout this season.
That would be an example of “measurable results” from disciplinary actions.
Continuing, I know that by simply implying that maybe…just maybe…the team would have ended up better had Waddell not been trigger happy last fall will cause me to suffer the slings and arrows from those who believed then, and believe now, that it was the right move to make. That is perfectly fine. Reasonable, rational, respectful dissent is always welcome here and agreeing with what I say is not a requirement to participate.
However, I would ask you then… just how was the team better in his absence?
Can you tell me how the team could have finished “laster” in the Goals Against statistic?
Could the team have finished “laster” in the Shots Against stat?
Could it have finished “laster” in the amount of times outshot by an opponent?
Could it have finished “laster” in the Shots on Goal stat?
Could it have finished “laster” in total number of regulation wins?
“Laster” in GF/GA differential?
“Laster” in 5 on 5 Goals Against Ratio?
No Thrashers team coached a full season by Bob Hartley finished last in ANY of the above statistic…much less ALL of them.
“But Rawhide, your wrong because Hartley’s power play sucked”! Oh? What was the power play efficiency last year? 16.5%. What is it now? 16.6%, (going into Saturday’s game). So, was it just Hartley? Obviously not. Moreover, two seasons ago it was 18.9%, which was 7th best in the league. What’s the difference between ’05-‘06 and the two that followed? Oh I don’t know…could one of the reasons be that it was the last year the team had a true #1 center in it’s employ… maybe?
“But Rawhide, the young talent would have been wasted under Hartley’s watch”…Really? Two of the brightest stars that emerged from this mess of a season have been Tobias Enstrom and Bryan Little. In the six games they played under Coach Hartley, Enstrom played right at 20 minutes per game and Little logged more than 15 minutes per game and had accounted for a goal and 2 assists. In fact, when you consider Sterling and Haydar as well, of the nine goals scored in the first six games these young-uns had goals or assists on five of them. So, the rookies were playing and contributing.
Regardless, even if you disagree with me and feel that the firing was the right thing to do and the right time to do it…I’m sure common ground can be found in the fact that the person that pulled the trigger on that move, and then talked ownership into allowing him to remain behind the bench to coach the team toward “success”…that person completely botched the aftermath of the firing.
Like I said…the only way to gauge whether or not a coach firing is successful or not is what happens afterwards. Well, we look down at the warped remains of what happened after…and it’s un-good and ugly.
Butt-ugly.
zipping back up the body bag…wheeling it back into the cooler
Next time, we discuss the person who hit the panic button and his role in the demise of this season.
‘07-‘08 Post Mortem Pt. 1 of 3
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Standing in the morgue, pulling on smock, slapping on rubber gloves, sliding on mask… Rawhide stands over the mortal remains of the ’07-’08 Atlanta Thrashers season.
Friends…thank you all for coming. Please, gather around and let’s just get this over with.
There are too many things that went terribly wrong with this 2007-’08 Thrashers season…there is no way to cover them all. But there are a few main topics that we can discuss as this disappointing campaign closes out. Once doing so… we then take it out, shovel dirt on these issues and leave the whole sorted affair buried from this point on.
Yes, I know there is another game to play, but for all intense and purpose…this season is dead, toes up. It has assumed room temperature…kicked the oxygen habit.
First item to discuss: The players. After all, they are the ones that perform or don’t. And this year, more times than not, they didn’t.
However, let’s start off with some good…namely the play of rookie Tobias Enstrom. The young Swede has played in all 81 games thus far, leads the team with 24:26 TOI, averages 25.5 shifts per game, (which is only 0.1 behind team leader Ken Klee) and has chipped in with 5 goals and 38 points. For much of the season he hovered around a +6 or +7, but recently has seen that drop to a -6. Still this is not terribly disappointing considering the amount of time he logs for a team whose GF/GA differential is -59.
The pairing of Enstrom and Niclas Havelid has been as solid of a defensive line we’ve had all year. Havelid is currently a +1, the only Thrasher in the positive who has played for the team all season.
Of course there is Ilya Kovalchuk. His 52 goals so far tie his career high. He has scored one quarter of the 212 goals tallied by the team. Factor in assists and he’s been in on 40.5% of them. For much of the season he was leading the NHL in goals but was slowed after taking a knee-to-knee shot from Pittsburgh’s Jarkko Ruutu just after the All Star break.
He didn’t wear the ‘C’, but the ‘C’ in him came through all year.
And now…the un-good.
To say that certain veteran players were a major disappointment would be quite the understatement. Let’s highlight four specifically:
Slava Kozlov: After inking a new contract last summer, the usually reliable forward disappeared quicker than doughnuts at a weight-watchers meeting. He has gone from 25 goals and 71 points two years ago and 28 goals 80 points last season to 17 and 40 this year. If you are one to give him the benefit of the doubt, it’s entirely possible his game slumped because of the poor play around him.
Trying to remain optimistic…certainly next year HAS to better for Kozlov.
Marian Hossa: Like Kozlov, he had a sub-par season before being shipped to Pittsburgh. Was he doggin’ it because he knew he was to be traded and did not want to get hurt? Were his numbers reflective of the supporting cast as well? Was the uncertainty of his future affecting his play? Who knows for sure?
However, the hard reality of his refusal to re-sign with the Thrasher is that he felt the team was not, yes I’m going to say it, moving in the right direction. Besides, how can one truly gauge the future of the team when the organ-I-zation cannot even move to name a head coach?
Bobby Holik: In fairness, the captain’s numbers this year improved from last. 11 goals and 29 points were upped to 14 and 33…similar to two seasons ago. But the glaring stat for Holik is the -15. In the past two seasons he was -3 and -6. Too many times Holik was not the dominating force in the defensive zone we needed from a center.
To be brutally honest, he seemed more adept at shoving a teammate under the bus than an opposing forward out from in front of the net.
Also, the team was in need of leadership in the man wearing the ‘C’. To me, that never really came from Holik.
Alexei Zhitnik: OK, where do we even begin. Let’s go with the -8, which is down from a +1 with three teams last year and his 3 goals and 5 helpers are off from 7 and 38 with those teams as well. To contrast his full season here, in the 18 games played for the Thrashers after the trade with Philadelphia last season he had 2 goals and 12 assists.
Many cheered his arrival a year ago, myself included, but some warned of the price paid. As it turns out, the price was indeed too steep. Compounding the aggravation is how Braydon Coburn has developed with the Flyers this season. That plus we are still on the hook for Zhit’s salary in ’08-’09.
He has viewed the games from the press box since the beginning of March and many would like to see him waived or bought out if a trade can’t be arranged.
These are but a few of the players who I have chosen to point out from this season we are beginning to examine. Feel free to step forward with your thoughts regarding those mentioned as well as others.
Lastly, I feel it necessary to point out the even though it is fair to call out the performances of these veteran players…it is also just as fair to contemplate the failings of the general manager for the squad that was assembled on the ice.
For me, it’s not as much as the players he provided in as much as the voids that were left. Last summer it was clear the team needed big time help on the blueline…his response, Ken Klee. Oh, a serviceable enough defender, but not the impact player needed to anchor a top defensive pairing. And there is this issue with the #1 center…something that has, for the most part, gone un-addressed since the departure of Marc Savard 2 summers past…unless you call Todd White the answer.
However, Don Waddell is a subject for later in these ceremonies.
But before we even get to him, we will next discuss the coaching situation of this soon-to-be departed season. Or, better stated…the lack thereof.
Until then….
zipping up the body bag over the decrepit remains, pushing corpse back into the cooler to keep ‘til next discussion
Brrrr, it’s chilly in here.
Hello Kids & Bye-Bye Moose?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
A couple of quick shots, then I have to prepare for some days away in Florida due to the loss of the Divine Mrs. R’s grandfather, (97 and passed in his sleep…we should all be so lucky). I have a couple of blogs “in the can” for later in the week …a series post mortems in which look back at the season, discuss some key issues, and then we can bury this abysmal year once and for all.
And remember, next week we begin our post-season blogging!
Extended Pre-season
The past several games have seen some new faces in the line up. It has been, as I like to say, an extended pre-season before next fall.
Tuesday night saw rookie forward Jordan LaVallee notching his first NHL goal and helper in just his second game. Boris Valabik now has 6 games under his belt with the Thrashers and seems to look more comfortable each and every game. Certainly he looks very comfortable in the role of blueline enforcer, quite the good sign for possible things to come.
However, the true test comes with time … specifically how they continue to develop once they gain more playing time at this level. But, combined with what has been seen of Little, Enstrom, Stuart and what we saw of Sterling, as well as the recent additions of Armstrong and Christensen…the future looks somewhat promising.
Now, most will get some playoff seasoning back in Wolves uniforms.
So, how do the newbies look to you? (And I’m referring to their play on the ice, ladies).
Last Moose Sighting?
Tuesday night’s 3-2 loss to Florida might well be the last we see of Johan Hedberg in a Thrashers uniform, as he becomes an UFA this summer. However, there is a logical argument that can be made for inking him to a one-year deal, (if the money is right), in order to give another year to Ondrej Pavelec’s development.
I still haven’t made up my mind on this yet…I mean, is Opie better off playing 20 or so games in a back-up role here…or getting another season with 60-ish starts in Chicago? Then again, if he is deemed ready for the NHL, shouldn’t he be here competing for the starting gig next fall?
While we are on that subject, the same question goes for Mark Recchi. Certainly he has been a great asset since picking him up…at the least, a good value. But does a player who will turn 41 next season fit into a rebuilding plan? His veteran leadership would be a great thing to have in the locker room, no doubt, but which player would you keep in Chicago for him? Or, are their players to obtain via trade or free agency that can fit the bill better?
Honestly, I go back and forth on these questions…but I guess, when push comes to shove, I would say bring up Opie and pat Recchi on the back telling him “thanks”, but we are going to go a different direction.
The Thrashers are going to go through some serious changes this summer, (hopefully), so let’s go all the way with it.
Falling Stars & Embattled Senators
Looks like something you might read on the cover of the National Enquirer, eh? But I’m speaking of the two hockey teams.
I do not generally buy into in the concept of “backing in” to the playoffs. Points in the standing are a cumulative thing over the course of 82 games. If a team finished with enough to qualify for a run at the cup, then it really doesn’t matter how the last 2 weeks of the season played out.
That being said, I have to point out two teams that are not exactly going into the Stanley Cup Sweepstakes on an up note.
Dallas, who has at least guaranteed a spot out west, is 2-6-2 in their past 10 games and have watched the Sharks run away with the Pacific Division title. While they currently hold the number five spot in the conference, it is not outside the realm of possibility that they could fall as low as seventh.
Finishing in that spot would pit them against San Jose. An un-good situation for sure!
But Ottawa is in an even worse position. Once the frontrunners in the east, this team has fallen back to the 6th seed in the conference and could find themselves as low as 8th after tonight’s play. Not only that, but they could be out of the playoffs all together if they drop their last two games, at Toronto and vs. Boston, (Think about THAT for a second).
These are not teams the Senators want to be facing right now as the Leafs would just love screwing up their rival’s post-season aspirations and the Bruins are still fighting not just to get into the big dance but better their positioning as well. And both are playing well of late.
All in all…not the spot either the Stars or Sens want to be in. Of course, I’d love the Thrashers to be facing the same “dilemma” right now.
Now, behave yourselves while I’m away, kids…I’ll check in when I can.
Thrashers Avoid Last Place - No Foolin’
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Kari Lehtonen stopped all 36 shots that Tampa Bay launched and Ilya Superchuk scored twice to beat the Lightning 2-0 keeping Atlanta out of the division and conference cellar. There was no TV coverage of it, local or Center Ice…but it really did happen, I promise.
The shutout was Kari’s fourth of the season and the two goals give Kovy 52 on the year, tying his career high. It sure would be nice if he could get that one more to set a new personal high. His play has been one of the few bright spots on the season.
The win also means that the Thrashers will end the year with a record of 13-3 in games not televised in the local area. Hey, I’m just pointing it out, that’s all.
And now, some other items to discuss on this initial day of the fourth month…planting tongue firmly in cheek.
Coach Hartley Confirms Firing Rumor
After Mondays win in Tampa last night, coach Hartley confirmed reports that he was almost fired last October. “Yes it’s, ah, true”, said the coach now completing his 4th complete season behind the bench. “Don, ah, wasn’t, like, happy with the way we started”.
But these days are happier now. The 2-0 win gave Atlanta their 90th point on the year, keeping them tied with Carolina for the division lead and a point behind 8th place Boston in the conference standings.
Hartley continued, “I’m real glad that Don looked at the past success of the team, remembering the 4-9-1 start two years ago and how we came just a win away from the playoffs,…(%$#& Dunham),…so, 40-30-10 is a good place to be right now. It’s not RIGHT where we, ah, wanted to be, but given the slow start and all, I’ll take it. I mean, it’s not like we’re 33-39-8 or something like that and barely staying out of last place”.
Indeed.
Grab Your Skates - Open Tryouts
The Thrashers are poised to announce “Open Tryouts” to the public in search of defensive players for next year’s team. Those interested are required to come to the Duluth practice facility with a certified letter from a practicing physician indicating you are healthy enough to participate. You’ll need your own skates and pads, however practice jerseys will be made available…most with the numbers 18 or 77.
Applicants will need to fill out a small questionnaire including a written response as to why they feel they’re qualified to play on the team. However, responses will be limited to 1,500 words or less. Sorry Brendan.
Also, there will be a minimum height requirement of 5’-4” in order to participate. Sorry PJ.
There will be a $200.00 application fee. Make checks payable to Bill Tiller.
Mulligan’s Island
Executive Vice President, General Manager and Acting Head Coach, (did I forget anything), Don Waddell has been working the phones to NHL head quarters in Toronto seeking clarification of the rarely used “Mulligan Rule” as it relates to this past season. Seems he is very interested in reverting back to the date of October 17, 2007 and then having a go at it again from there.
Of course, if he’s given enough time, Waddell just may “Mulligan” the Thrashers right back to their initial season.
A Star Is Born
This summer, Bruce Levenson will realize a life-long dream of acting in a major epic movie. He has landed a role in Monumental Picture’s “Custer’s Little Big Horn Adventure”. Levenson’s role is a small but meaningful one as Lt. Colonel Custer’s personal assistant.
His one and only speaking part comes as the 7th army moves into a very exposed field of battle on that fateful day in June 1876. Custer turns to his assistant and asks, “Look, I’m really not too sure about this course of action. Are you positive this will be the best position for us to take”?
Levenson responds, “Yes Colonel, I’m sure that we are…moving in the right direction”.
Leave It To The Trained Professionals
Congratulations are in order for Jay Busbee, the gent who handles the sports blog for our friends over at Atlanta Magazine online! In a recent Pulitzer-esque write-up about Atlanta Braves great Terry Pendleton, Jay actually reached double digits in posted comments!
audible gasp from the blogosphere…then polite “golf claps”, ooos and aahs
Obviously, we stand today in the shadows of a giant amongst sports blog… ahem…professionals. And as a mere “goofy ranting fan” who is “barely literate, obvious, and unfunny”…I can only dream of ever reaching such lofty heights in reader participation. How anyone could gain the “keys to the blog-writing tool”, other than this icon in the industry, is simply beyond me…and I’m not just saying that!
We, the great unwashed in the eyes if such literary genius…the rank amateurs… thank Jay for sharing with us his most informative, entertaining and amusing words… and for showing us just how a wildly successful sports blog should be run!
Remember kids, as Jay so eloquently points out, “people can die” from the “predictably idiotic” type of jocularity that takes place on this blog…so let’s just be careful out there! But, by the grace of God no one has gotten hurt on the blog yet…even with all of the traffic that occurs here on a daily basis.
Fortunately, no one is in such danger as they stroll Right Down Peachtree with Jay Busbee… or the two titans in the blogging world that he apparently gains his insight from, “Barry Melrose Rocks” and “Fanhouse”.
So everyone, please join me in giving Jay a big round of cyber-applause for a job well done. All I can say Jay is, (if I may be allowed to borrow one of your original, witty phrases), ”Wow. Just…wow”.
But Seriously, Folks….
Bruce Levenson has indicated that, despite the abysmal record of the team… being last in GA/A, S/G, SA/G, worst 5 on 5 Goals For/Against Ratio, last in times out-shooting an opponent, worst GF/GA differential in the league and falling from a 3rd seed in the playoffs last year to 14th in the conference this season… Don Waddell, the man who put the team together and coached it, (for the most part), will return next season as general manager.
Really…I’m serious.
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