AJC > Sports Thrashers > Blog > Archives > 2008 > May > 12 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USWaddell Movin’ On Up?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The storyline surrounding the Thrashers is starting to look more like a daytime soap opera these days. Call it, The Bold and the Blueland.
See, a few days ago we read about Atlanta Spirit co-owner Michael Gearon, Jr. discussing how ownership was considering changing Don Waddell’s role with the Thrashers. Speculation was that Waddell was moving on up the ASG ladder and possibly a new GM would be on the way.
That news was then followed up Friday with this piece by Scott Burnside in which an unnamed source close to the team indicated that Waddell was being asked to give up his GM duties to take another management position. If he refused, the story goes on, then he would be relieved of his duties and shown the door.
“Just look at the facts, the record”, the unidentified source said, “What choice do you have”?
Indeed.
This is a win-win scenario, eh? A new coach AND a new general manager for the Thrashers? Oh happy day! On top of that…Waddell remains with the franchise in a capacity to help them run a profitable business, (something he has done well during his tenure), and ownership doesn’t have to dirty their hands firing the only GM the Thrashers have ever known.
Then comes Saturday…Craig Custance reports in, (while dipping his toes pool-side and sipping on drinks with little umbrellas in them), and lets us know Gearon called him to say that the whole thing about D-Dub being asked to promote himself up and out of the GM office is “completely false”.
However, what has not changed is the fact that ownership is looking to expand Waddell’s role into a different position with the ASG. Gearon pointed out that Waddell may fill the position of team President that became open last January. Also, any additions will be made for support reasons, not to replace Waddell.
Uh…WHAT?
I thought that Bruce “right direction” Levenson conceded the fact that it was a mistake to split Don’s time between the bench and GM role. Now Gearon is saying that he could split his time between being GM and President?
I think if there is one thing we can all agree upon…it’s that Don-splitting is un-good!
So, in the span of about four days, we go from reading that Don Waddell may be promoted to a higher office in the organ-I-zation, to hearing that Don is going to be “asked” to vacate the GM role and promote himself up or get canned, to hearing that the previous is not so…but DW will stay on as GM but will take on additional roles with the team…even though not too long ago ownership was admitting that splitting Don’s time between the GM office and elsewhere was a bad thing.
Personally, I think Gearon’s latest comments are just an attempt to shut down the chatter while certain logistics are worked out for the transition. And Waddell’s recent relocation to former ASG president Bernie Mullin’s office furthers the thinking that something is indeed up.
However, there is one person who has the ability to put an end to this speculation…Don Waddell himself. He should take charge of this situation and announce that he’s voluntarily stepping away from being GM and concentrate on being Executive VP, or whatever he and the ASG feel would be appropriate. End the speculations and questions and begin the process of moving this team forward.
One of the main points his detractors make of his tenure as GM has been poor drafting, misguided trades and the failure to attract big-name free agent signings, especially on defense. His supporters will point to the organ-I-zation’s ability to run a profitable business, thanks in part to Waddell himself. Making this decision would, in theory, allow him to concentrate on what is good for the bottom line while making way for someone new to deal with the on-ice product.
Is there something fishy about “promoting” someone after 10 years with the track record of “success” that comes with Don Waddell? Uh, yeah…sure there is. A logical question to ask here would be, “Why place Don in a position where he, in effect, has any kind of authority over the person who replaced him”? Yes, I hear ya. But let’s face the facts here. The ASG wants to save face after giving their support to DW and defending him. It is very apparent that if they haven’t released him already, especially after last season, they have no plans on doing so in the foreseeable future.
To me, this should not only happen, but should happen soon. That way that the team can place a new GM as well as the new coach in time to coordinate their activities in time for the upcoming draft and the opening of free-agency season on July 1.
Certainly it should be done before Waddell learns that Jason Blake may want out of Toronto and he goes and trades someone like Little or Stuart and a first round draft pick for the 35-year old forward set to make $4.5 million next season with 4 years left on his contract. (OK, I’m half-way joking…but there IS history to go on with things like that).
There are quality candidates available to fill the void in the front office. But if Gearon, Levenson and the rest of the ASG drag their feet, then guys like, say…David Nonis, are going to wind up in a place like Toronto. Certainly there are other qualified types out there, but you get the picture.
The candidate for coach which most people feel is most likely to be the choice for Atlanta, John Anderson, could be only days away from being officially available as the Wolves find themselves in a tough playoff series with the Rockford IceHogs. So, things could start moving quickly in that regard.
The time is right for the change…and Don Waddell should do the right thing…right now.
Comments
Commenting is now closed for this entry.
By Sage of Bluesland
May 12, 2008 6:57 AM | Link to this
‘The Bold and the Blueland’? I like ‘The Blusterer in [that figurative joke otherwise known as] Blueland’ better…
There are two words to describe said ‘Blueland’: “joke” and “circus”.
The Waddellites never cease to amaze me with their defense of the indefensible…No truer words were spoken than, “Just look at the facts, the record”, the unidentified source said, “What choice do you have”?
The choice is simple: Fire Don Waddell. Get him OUT of the organization that he has had stewardship for for nearly ten years. The organization that he has literally run into the ground.
If you want to kiss the lisping blusterer’s backside, then go to sheepsites like Nastynest and continue to dream the impossible dream…and continue to subsidize the utter incompetence…
By Russian
May 12, 2008 8:34 AM | Link to this
This is just F*** Joke! Our Atlanta Spirt are completely blind. What are they waiting for? Almost 10 years Thrasher team is most unsuccesful team on the NHL. Ticket Holders are dropping a ticket. Organization like Toronto, Colorado, Vancouver, Capitals made dissision fast and easy. There teams will be better on next season. I do not know, but this whole situation make me sick!!!!
By The Joker
May 12, 2008 9:24 AM | Link to this
Question
How many Spirit owners does it take to make an intelligent decision?
Answer
Unknown, they never have.
By Bob
May 12, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this
These guys are their own worst enemy, they can’t even get it right to fire Waddell cleanly.
Clean break, guys. You can’t bring in a competent GM in here that will work under a lame duck (Waddell) and under a fractured ownership group.
Heaven help us.
By Midfield
May 12, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this
It increasingly looks like the Spirit group is not a cohesive group by any stretch, which makes it easier for a sleek like Don to survive one way or another by playing one against another. Meanwhile, a few thousand Atlanta hockey fans are grinding their teeth in disgust. Very poetic.
By gategirl
May 12, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this
They need to stop talking about doing things and just do it.
ASG is not the best ownership group they seem to be all about the drama
By whatthepuck
May 12, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this
The owners of the team need to fire waddel but also they might consider selling the team to someone who would keep it in atlanta and also poney up the cash and have the balls to move this team in the right direction. The owners have caused their own problems in my opinion because they are cheap baster** If they cant get it right in ten years someone else should take over. I really hope they turn things around because i donot want to lose kovy in a couple of years. I mean losing Hossa and dupuis was bad enough. So heres a summerey for you idiotic owners if by some inane chance u read this fire donny and grow a pair!!!
By B. Thenet
May 12, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this
I concur with the notion that DW needs to step away from the General Manager position, and the scouting, trading, FA signing side of the team.
However, this entire episode shows that Don Waddell can certainly bring some talents to the table that the Atlanta Spirit Group are sorely lacking in.
Don is a guy who is comfortable talking to the press, media, and fans. This is obviously one of the major weaknesses that this ownership team has.
Don also is someone who can build relationships around the NHL and hockey world. He has been GM of the US Olympic team, been involved in the WJCs, and is generally well liked by his peers in the NHL.
I am also concerned about how Don’s relationship with any future GM/Head Coach would be in this President of the Team position, however lets not pretend that DW is good for nothing.
He brings things to the table that would certainly help the ownership team now, and moving forward outside of the GM position of the Thrashers.
By NASCAR Dave
May 12, 2008 12:17 PM | Link to this
RAWHIDE - Don FRAUDell is similar to Hillary Clinton…
They both need to do the “noble” thing, and step down… however, both of them are being stubborn and letting their pride get in the way.
Some people just can’t see when they have FAILED, huh???
By Rawhide
May 12, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this
B. Thenet - Your comments regarding D-Dub are well stated!
Gategirl - Welcome, I don’t think I’ve seen you here before…so thanks for chiming in. And yes…dramic indeed!
Midfield - Meanwhile, a few thousand Atlanta hockey fans are grinding their teeth in disgust. - Might I suggest a mouth guard as to not damage any dental work.
The Joker - Don’t you also go by…”smoker, midnight toker…picker, grinner, lover and sinner”?
NASCAR Dave - Now, come on…you know I NEVER delve into politics here…
By Midfield
May 12, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this
Hey, Rawhide, perhaps you’re on to something. Is any of the Spirit boys a dentist?
By Rawhide
May 12, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this
Maybe we could suggest “Mouthguard Night” as the promo for opening night?
By bart
May 12, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this
The time is fast approaching for the draft and free agent signings. What is ASG doing? Playing their own version of Who’s on 1st. I thought Levenson was the hockey guy? Now we have Gearon talking, back tracking and denying. What next? I think it is safe to say that I don’t know is still on 3rd and in charge of ASG.
By R. Stroz
May 12, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this
Bart - That’s great.
We now have three possible new call names for the blog:
Who’s On First
What’s On Second
I Don’t Know Is On Third
So for the sake of discussion:
Who’s on First = President of Operations
What’s On Second = Thrashers GM
I Don’t Know = Thrashers Coach
By Archie
May 12, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this
I don’t like the idea of moving Waddell up to the front office. Right now his title is “Executive VP and General Manager”. It’s the “Executive VP” position where his failures have caused the most damage. His failure to put together a solid farm system and build effective, long lasting relationships with the minor league affiliates are what has directly led him to signing over-priced free agents and trade away prospects for immediate help. If we had players coming up through the system the way Buffalo, San Jose and Dallas do, then he wouldn’t have forced himself into deals like trading Coburn for Zhitnik, or overpaying for Bobby Holik, and failing to replace Marc Savard. The players he has drafted over the years know how to play the game, and they’re quality prospects, they’re just hitting a brick wall in the minors because they’re playing different systems and being relegated to the bench in favor or career minor leaguers. These are circumstances that he created or allowed in the first place, which completely undermined his ability to form a roster. So keeping him as an upper level executive is a bad idea because that’s the biggest mess the franchise has, and he messed it up in the first place.
Overall, the franchise needs a new team president to set up and manage the organization’s structure from top to bottom, a general manager to construct a roster and manage the coaches and players, and a coach to lead the players.
My preferred scenario, hire Scotty Bowman as team president. Then hire the duo of Kevin Cheveldayoff from the Wolves as GM and his coach Anderson as our new head coach. That way we kill 4 birds with one stone, get a team prez, hire a coach and GM, and cut off the disconnect with Chicago all in one swoop.
By ranallo10
May 12, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this
Archie — If Scotty Bowman got any title within the Thrashers organization, I would consider it a coups (and a overall win).
I can’t disagree with your preferred scenario.
By Tony C.
May 12, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this
Wow. I just don’t se the Wolves giving up their GM and Coach unless there’s a new and much-improved contract between Chi. and ASG
By ranallo10
May 12, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this
Tony C. — You’re right, it likely wouldn’t happen without much coercing, but he did say “preferred”.
I’m curious what relationship Buffalo truly has with Rochester, since both Buffalo and Florida use the Rochester team as their AHL affiliate.
By Brendan
May 12, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this
The move that allows the ASG to save the most face is a Waddell resignation.
There’s all sorts of things Waddell can claim, legitimately, towards that end. “He wants to spend more time with his family.” Or, “He wants to focus on Team USA Hockey (2010 in Vancouver, BC).” Or, “He wants to write his book.” Or, “He wants to pursue other business ventures.” There’s lots of things he could say, legitimately, that gets him out of this one.
Here’s the one I want to hear the most, “This ownership just doesn’t provide adequate financial resources to maintaining a Cup contender, year in and year out. I’d like to pursue GM opportunities in a market that will let me spend to at or near the salary cap.”
By ranallo10
May 12, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this
I have a hard time believing the ASG cares about “saving face”.
They might try to adjust general perception, but they easily allowed Billy Knight to walk while retaining Mike Woodson’s services…when general perception was that both needed to go.
I think people are making this an emotional decision for the ASG, when it seems more apparent that it’s a business decision. They appear to be content with Waddell’s presence in their organization (no matter the capacity), and likewise are finding the most suitable position for him to suit their needs. Saving face is an outsider’s phenomenon, and I contend it can’t be proven to be anything but an idea (i.e. you can’t show me tangible evidence that it’s the root to a decision).
I may think the ASG is relatively dumb, but I don’t think they’re that dumb (to retain somebody in an effort to “save face”).
By Gary
May 12, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this
Hi Brendan. Maybe now you can view me as a more reliable source than bob (other). Would you agree?
By Tony C.
May 12, 2008 6:27 PM | Link to this
I’m afraid they are that dumb, dude.
I mean c’mon they’re trying to sell us a Juniors coach as a solution for both coach and GM (nothing against him, but honestly, I’ve heard the guys name twice before April 2008, and it was in the same article about Weiss w/an interview where he spoke about coaches he’d had and who had a big impact on him)!!!
So uhm, yeah. I think they are that dumb, or they think we are.
By Moose
May 12, 2008 7:17 PM | Link to this
Does anyone know what the season ticket retention was this year?
By kracker
May 12, 2008 7:32 PM | Link to this
Ranallo I’m curious what relationship Buffalo truly has with Rochester, since both Buffalo and Florida use the Rochester team as their AHL affiliate.
Wow! I didn’t know that. It sounds…wrong, somehow.
Thinking way outside the box, I’d prefer to trade the Wolves (sry Wolves fans) for a new Thrashers-directed (& funding assisted) AHL affiliate in place of the Glads (sry Glads fans)in the Gwinnett Arena (is it big enough?). The close ties between the teams might actually serve to better solidify the hockey fan base in the Atlanta area.
It won’t happen, of course, as our owners barely fund their NHL team as it is and adding an AHL team might not be easy and the Glads have their contractual obligations, etc. but I’d love to have our AHL guys living and playing locally and busting their butts to get to move downtown. Upgrading the level of Pro hockey here would have to make this a better ‘hockey town’ seems to me. Could it work, given a committed owner with the means to do it?
By kracker
May 12, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this
Not to mention all the obvious advantages of your prospects/callups not having to throw stuff in a bag, fly in from Chicago and find lodging to play here…scouting their progress would be so easy…I like the idea….like the Phantoms and the Flyers and probably other pairs of teams.
By Tony C.
May 12, 2008 7:50 PM | Link to this
Moose-
The guy that is my rep with ASG sales group said that they were “over 60% below [our] goal” so I’m guessing they lost at least 20% of existing STH.
Purely guesswork on my part-but you can bet if the numbers were so bad that they mention of it in Atlanta Business Chronicle that the reality is pretty freakin grim.
By Rawhide
May 12, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this
TSN is reporting Ron Wilson has been fired in San Jose
By kracker
May 12, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this
RH Scoobie Doo says “Ruh-rowh!”
By Ben
May 12, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this
Could this really be it for D-WAD? I think sooooooo!
Hossa, you won! Please come back!
What will we blog about when D-WAD is really gone? Really, any ideas?
By ranallo10
May 12, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this
RH — Most fans saw that one coming, now the question is who will pick him up. I’d say Toronto would be interested in him, as would Colorado.
I don’t think Atlanta would win if it came down to our coaching job vs. teams like Toronto/Colorado/San Jose.
And yes, there are two people you can blame for that, but what’s the point now???
Tony C. — I’ll give you they think WE’RE that dumb, I just find it hard to imagine a group of MILLIONAIRES thinking about “saving face” based on a bad decision. You don’t become a millionaire (most are self made in this group) by being prideful and hiding your mistakes behind “managerial adjustments”. At least you don’t in my opinion. Of course, I’m not a millionaire, so I could be WAYYYYYY off.
kracker — It does sound wrong, but there are 28 teams in the AHL (maybe 29) and 30 in the NHL. SO somebody has to share, or be without an affiliate.
I wouldn’t be opposed to an AHL team to the perimeter, and Gwinnett would make the most sense. The Braves have a minor league affiliate moving to Gwinnett. The Gladiators have a following. I’d imagine an AHL team could do fine…but I think AHL teams would require a much greater GUARANTEED attendance than Gwinnett can offer (just a guess). Also, to my understanding the AHL is happy with their current size, so it’d require a team moving (which I don’t know the likelihood of such a thing being possible in the near future).
By LAC
May 12, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this
I say hire Ron Wilson coach, bring Dave Nonis as GM and start the ball rolling IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION !
That would be a SUPER combo to have come in here and straighten things out once and for all.
I am so SICK of talking about don waddell and I know everyone else is too…
The owners should realize that if they were to bring in these two WINNERS with a proven track record, they WOULD look smart and I feel we WOULD be moving in the right direction.
The Thrashers simply CANNOT afford to miss this chance to start the franchises rebirth or sorts.
They need to act and act NOW, before the Cup finals, give the NHL some buzz about us and show THE FANS it’s time we mean BUSINESS once and for all… Enough losing !
By ranallo10
May 12, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this
Ben — I’d bet the Usual Suspects would put their eyre onto something else within the organization which doesn’t fit their expectations. But you’re right, the number of blogs (and subsequently the number of single-agenda bloggers) will definitely deteriorate.
By Rawhide
May 12, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this
Ben - What will we blog about when D-WAD is really gone? Really, any ideas? I would think we would spend some time blogging aout DW’s replacement…then the new coach…then the draft…the UFA signings…then the schedule release…then training camp…then preseason…then THE THRASHERS KICKING SOME A$$ FOR SIX MONTHS ON THEIR WAY TO THE STANLEY CUP!!
ranallo - I have a feeling Quenneville is in Toronto’s sights…yes Colorado would be wise to try as well for Wilson. But I would really love for…OUR SOON TO BE NAMED NEW GM…to give it a good try to land him here.
By kracker
May 12, 2008 10:52 PM | Link to this
Ranallo Yes, an AHL expansion team might not be a possibility. I thought about the attendence and the competetion with the Gwinnett Braves. I am assuming the Glads would have to relocate. I do think the cross-pollinization of fans between the NHL/AHL clubs would result in better attendance for a Gwinnett AHL club than for the Gladiators, what with local people following players on each team. When a player gets called up, I would think lots of the Gwinnett fans would really want to see how they play…of course, with the Thrashers they can just watch it on TV, most games.
Anyway, it won’t happen, I was just thinking…
By R. Stroz
May 12, 2008 11:02 PM | Link to this
With the draft and free agency coming up soon, Thrasher management/owners/Who’s on First has about 20 days to fill the GM and coach positions in order to create a team that fits the new GM and coach type of team.
To say the least, there isn’t alot of time to fix this ship.
By R. Stroz
May 12, 2008 11:37 PM | Link to this
On a completely unrelated note, has anyone received their stimulus direct deposit/ check yet?
By Brendan
May 13, 2008 1:15 AM | Link to this
Ben, I would like to think we’d talk about the Power Play, the PK, our goals against … our team philosophy. The chemistry of our players, etc.
Once Waddell is really gone, there’ll only be occasional references to him when the team loses, or looks old and lethargic.
By Alan
May 13, 2008 1:16 AM | Link to this
“Stimulus.” HA!
(Laughing even harder at “received”)
So hey guys, how about those Red Wings, eh? 9 in a row so far. The playoff win streak record stands at 12, if I recall correctly.
By Sharon
May 13, 2008 1:50 AM | Link to this
Yes, I received my stimulus check last week (direct deposited). I promptly invested it in a swanky new bbq grill. I have some cash left over and I’ll probably invest that in Michelob Light. My portfolio is booming!
By kracker
May 13, 2008 7:11 AM | Link to this
Anybody planning on spending their stimulus check on Thrashers ST? Bruce should send an email pitch, seeing as how the team is moving in the right direction and all that.
By Rawhide
May 13, 2008 8:42 AM | Link to this
Take a look at this TSN piece that states that Dave Nonis will be talking to the Leafs about the GM position there.
In it, it also says that Atlanta is interested in his services as well and that contact between the two parties has already been made. If so, that would mean DW is on the way out as GM
Where there is this much smoke…there must be fire!
By Tony C.
May 13, 2008 8:51 AM | Link to this
you know the $ comes out of next year’s return right?
By R. Stroz
May 13, 2008 8:57 AM | Link to this
Tony C. - Yes, but would you rather have a dollar today or after April 15, 2009?
Besides, if we were taxed less then we could all afford more Thrasher tickets.
I’d rather pay to see hockey than hand my money over to Robin Hood, best known as the Department of Treasury.
By Bob
May 13, 2008 9:05 AM | Link to this
What will we blog about when D-WAD is really gone?
We will blog about all kinds of new and exciting things. Instead of perpetual depression about being stuck with an incompetent GM, I think we’ll blog about how excited we are to finally be headed in the right direction and about the new changes that will be made, and the real players that will be brought in.
Thrasher management/owners/Who’s on First has about 20 days to fill the GM and coach positions in order to create a team that fits the new GM and coach type of team. To say the least, there isn’t alot of time to fix this ship.
Yep. Which is precisely why Waddell should have been fired long ago, at least by mid-season. We’d already have a new GM in place who would’ve had time to bring in his own scouts, etc. Now, the GM will have to rely on the same broken scouting department that Waddell built. This is exactly why many of us called for Waddell to be fired mid-year (as the Stars did with their GM), yet the perpetually clueless ones said “there’s no point to firing a GM mid-season”.
By Trish
May 13, 2008 9:31 AM | Link to this
Hey Rawhide—thought ya’ll were counting on getting Lavi from the Canes?!? You know he still hasn’t had his exit interview yet.
By Adam
May 13, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this
R. Stroz I Don’t Know = Thrashers GM as well. Not only because technically he’s still the coach but also in reference to his post game reply to the question of why his team can’t correctly make line changes. :o
If the ASG can’t see that deer in the headlights look he had so many times this year and do what needs to be done means he’s under contract and they don’t want to be paying 4 salary’s for 2 positions.
28 AHL teams & 30 NHL. Here’s wishful thinking. Move 2 of the heavily loaded American Conference ECHL teams to the AHL. Like the Glads & Blades…
By B. Thenet
May 13, 2008 9:41 AM | Link to this
FYI about Buffalo and Rochester. There has been some bad blood between the Sabres and the Amerks organizations, I believe the Rochester owner is one of the main culprits.
Next year the Sabres will be transfering their AHL affiliation to the Portland Pirates.
By Rawhide
May 13, 2008 9:43 AM | Link to this
Trish - If Laviolette were to become available today, I would personally drive up there, pick him up…feed him dinner on the way back, drive him to Don Waddell?s home and tell him to sign Peter RIGHT NOW!
And I will use my “stimulus” check to pay for the gas to do it!
However, of the individuals who are “officially” on the market, right now my personal choices come down to Wilson or Anderson.
Should Lavi leave Carolina then a great argument could be made for him. However, if the Thrashers just wait around too long, and Lavi DOESN’T leave the Canes…then Wilson’s and Quenneville’s of the league are gonna wind up in places like Toronto and Colorado & we’ll be left settling.
By GaVaHokie
May 13, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this
I’d have to agree with LAC… I think Nonis and Wilson is the best combination… pure class. I’d be inclined to wear a tuxedo to games.
By ranallo10
May 13, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this
RH — Is it ironic that my “stimulus” check will be used towards my ticket to Austria?
By Brendan
May 13, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this
They say that, in a best-of-seven series, that no team is in ‘trouble’ until it loses a game on its home ice. Stick the fork in Dallas. They’re done. It’d be nice to see the club reward its owner by taking the next two games, to force a Game Six. But only two teams have ever won a best-of-seven series after trailing 3-0.
Segue to the Philadelphia Flyers, who may be without the services of former Thrasher Braydon Coburn, who received over 50 stitches after being hit in the eye with the puck. The Flyers must win Game Three. The Penguins will not lose four straight to lose the series.
To win the Stanley Cup, several things have to come together simultaneously. One, just “one” of the many components is the health of the players. Philadelphia has not been blessed in this regard. I’m sure they’d like to have Simon Gagne, too. But being without their top two blueliners … against the team the caliber of Pittsburgh … is a daunting task.
My coin flip has won the Dallas-Detroit series, barring a miracle. Luckily, I have Pittsburgh and the coin flip has Philly, so I’m at least ‘leading’ that series. If it is to be a Penguins-Red Wings Final, I should think Gary Bettmen will be grinning like a cheshire cat.
By HookyBob
May 13, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this
Rawhide: While some have said that I’m “easily confused” there are getting to be so many unemployed NHL coaches and NHL coaching vacancies now that “I’m losing track.” It would be nice to see a listing of both. A 3rd list of top tier AHL/minor league coaching prospects may be worthwhile as well.
I gotta think that with all the vacancies right now…we’d be a coach’s 4th or 5th choice, behind Toronto, Ottawa, Colorado, and San Jose.
From the circumstantial tidbits of information we are getting it certainly looks as if Don is moving to a mgmt level above GM. (Did I hear they changed the locks on the coaches office door?) So a list of potential GMs may be order as well.
Am I correct that Toronto and Vancouver are the only teams w GM vacancies right now. If so, I guess that would put us 3rd in line.
This franchise is a big ship and can’t turn on a dime. To get us turned and truly “headed in the right direction” I’m of the opinion that putting “respected” names in these two positions would go a long ways in helping recruit top level UFAs.
Answer me this: What two hires at GM and coach would send the strongest message to Hossa to sign here? He is, after all, one of the best UFAs,.. and has intimate knowledge of this franchise.
142 days until they drop the puck on our next run. I can’t wait. In the meantime I guess I am stuck with 3rd and 4th round play-off games (life is tough isn’t it).
So what do you bloggers think of a Wings-Penguins final? I can think of lots of good story lines.
By Trish
May 13, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this
LOL!! I agree with you Rawhide—Trashers oops sorry Thrashers can’t sit around waiting for a coach to become available (which Lavi isn’t going to be available anyway.) There are a few good ones up for grabs right now. I truly do hope that you guys pick up a coach and a GM that is as good as Laviolette and Rutherford here in Canes country. After 10 years at the helm and only 1 playoff berth (and only making it to the 1st round)under Don Waddell, he needs to go!!
By B. Thenet
May 13, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this
Wings in 4 or 5. Detroit is going to expose the mediocre Pittsburgh D and shred it to pieces. The only question will be how many penalties the Pens will be able to draw vs. Detroit. The Pens are a great PP team, that is their only advantage over Detroit.
By R. Stroz
May 13, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this
ranallo10 - Considering the reason you’re going to Austria, isn’t the term “stimulus package” appropriate?
By Brendan
May 13, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this
I think the Pens and Wings would at least be a six game series, one way or the other. But, we shouldn’t get ahead of ourselves. Let’s see what Philly can cook up in Games Three and Four.
By GaVaHokie
May 13, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this
I don’t think we’ll hear about Waddell’s promotion until after they find a suitable GM candidate. I’m assuming if the ownership isn’t sold on any of the candidates, Waddell will stay at GM.
By Viagra
May 13, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this
Hello? Mr. Stroz was calling for “stimulus” for his “package”?
By ranallo10
May 13, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this
HookyBob — Florida is also in need of a Head Coach…so perhaps Atlanta will be fighting them for the scraps left of the HC hirings from Toronto, San Jose, Colorado, etc.
Hokie — I have a feeling that the ownership will not be sold on any of the VIABLE candidates, so will either stick with Waddell or go the route of a rookie GM with potential. It probably isn’t wise for this franchise to go that route again…remember, Waddell was an assistant GM from a Championship team who had proven success in the minors — a pretty damn good resume for a prospective GM.
Personally, I’m fine with trying something new and going with somebody unproven, but I think that would likely spell the end to Kovalchuk’s days in Atlanta. So now I must ask myself what is most important, Kovalchuk staying in Atlanta until he retires, or the long term success of this club? Personally I wish both paths could converge, but unfortunately I don’t believe it will.
By ranallo10
May 13, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this
You’ve got a little crush on her, don’t you Stroz? Back off, or the Future Mrs. Buzilla might get jealous.
By kracker
May 13, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this
The Wings signed Ville Leino, so the rich get richer.
By ranallo10
May 13, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this
kracker — Was it you who mentioned him and Niemi? I can’t remember what blogger mentioned them…
Niemi got signed by Chicago, Brunnstrum to Dallas, and Leino to Detroit. Now I’m curious if Kuusela will be courted/signed.
By kracker
May 13, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this
Yep, I was hoping to attract Leino…but with the mess the Thrash are in, it was never realistic.
By ranallo10
May 13, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this
kracker — Since I don’t remember anyone ELSE responding, I think you and I were in agreement about such a signing not likely to happen in Atlanta.
Brunnstrum to Dallas honestly surprised me, and I think it’s a good spin Dallas used to highlight the impact he’ll serve. They effectively have stated that Brunnstrum’s acquisition is in lieu of the first round pick they gave up for Richards. Dallas seems to be a team with pulling power to sign a top UFA (a 23 year old in this case), the money to offer him an entry level contract (same as a top rookie from the draft), and the situation for that player to immediately succeed AND receive extensive playing time. If only Atlanta could become such a team…
By kracker
May 13, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this
Ranallo For similar reasons to those you mentioned about Dallas successfully attracting quality FAs - I really wanted to get lucky in this draft and land the top spot, where we probably take Stamkos and raise the team profile a bit at the same time.
Now we are talking about trying to attract a quality free agent GM (and/or coach) and we have the same problems there as well.
This is getting really depressing. I need some good news quickly.
By ranallo10
May 13, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this
kracker — I saved a ton of money on car insurance by switching to Geico…
By kracker
May 13, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this
LOL!! Just to have to keep laughing.
By Brendan
May 13, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this
Well, the Flyers lost a home game. That means … they’re officially ‘in trouble.’ Marian Hossa scored two goals, including the game-winner. His eighth (8th) of the playoffs. Good for him!
Pittsburgh is 11-1. Detroit is 11-2. (Nashville beams with pride.) This Cup Finals is shaping up to be the “best of the best.” President’s Trophy winners don’t have a glorious history, in terms of bringing home the Cup. Detroit did it in 2002. Now, they’ll probably get another chance.
Pittsburgh lost the #1 seed by losing to Philadelphia on the final game of the regular season, allowing Montreal to get the top spot. The Penguins were arguably the best team in the East this year.
I did some snooping. Ever since the current playoff format was established in 1982, only one (1) team in the East has ever swept the Conference Finals but lost the Cup. You want to know who it is, don’t you? It was the 1990 Boston Bruins, who swept the “Cinderella” Capitals. Edmonton took the Cup in 1990, their fifth in seven years.
In 1992, the Penguins swept the Bruins in the CF and went on to win the Cup. They’re hoping for history to repeat itself.
In the Western Conference, history hasn’t smiled on the team that sweeps the CF, since 1982. In the four (4) times that it’s happened, only once (1x) did that team go on to win the Cup. Everyone leans in to find out who it was. It was Edmonton, in 1984. In 1983, the Oilers swept Chicago, but got swept in the Finals. In 1984, Oilers swept Minnesota, then won the Cup, 4-1, over the Isles. In 1992, Chicago swept Edmonton, but then the Blackhawks were swept by Pittsburgh in the Finals. Trend emerging?? Sweep, then get swept? The last time the CF were a sweep out West, it was Anaheim over Minnesota in 2003. Anaheim didn’t win the Cup, but they did push New Jersey to a seventh (7th) game.
We haven’t had any “sweeps” just yet in these Conference Finals. But if history is any guide, the Red Wings are fighting some negative trends, first as President’s trophy winner who wins the cup (around 20% of the time) and for bucking a 1-3 record of Western Conference Champs who swept in four.
Of course, none that matters now. It’s all about executing plays when it matters the most and remaining healthy. If Fleury goes down, the Pens will have to rely on Conklin. If Osgood becomes incapacitated, it’ll be up to Hasek to deliver the Cup to “Hockeytown.” Cam Ward wasn’t the starter for Carolina in 2006—it was Gerber. Hasek started for Detroit in ‘08, but Osgood has gone the distance ever since. In 2006, Roloson was starter for Edmonton, but Jussi Markanen was pressed into service for six games in the Finals. Who relieve the injured Rolosson in Game One of the 2006 Finals?
Answer: Ty Conklin, now with Pittsburgh. Conklin isn’t a “total stranger” to playing in the Finals.
By Brendan
May 13, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this
I hit it ONE TIME!