AJC > Sports Thrashers > Blog > Archives > 2008 > June > 16 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USAll’s Quiet On The Coaching Front
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
It’s still very quiet on the coaching front today. Some may say…maybe too quiet. Obviously it’s frustrating to be sitting here in that latter part of June with still no head coach named yet, especially when we see others placing new bench bosses all around us.
And yes, I’ve even lampooned the fact that we are 240-some odd days into this process. However, there are a couple of logical reason why the information from Camp Spirit Group is sparse, to say the least.
First of all, the last thing in the world this organ-I-zation needs is to be given the Bill Parcells treatment the way the Falcons were last winter after Bobby Petrino packed up his skirts and pacifiers then ran out of town to the pig farm at Fayetteville, Arkansas. Even prior to Parcells playing Atlanta before heading to the tropics of Miami, Bill Cowher made it clear he wasn’t interested in taking over the team himself. Of course, if the former Steelers coach had come here…we would have had a “Cowher” following a “coward”. But, I digress.
To have it known that any potential coaching candidate(s) were sought after only to then tell Don Waddell and the Thrashers, “Thanks but no thanks”, would be embarrassing indeed. And it’s a situation to be avoided at all cost.
Also, the new coach doesn’t need to have the collar placed around his neck that reads, “I was the third choice”. Fans would know that and, more importantly, so too would the players. This is especially true given the fact that one of the most important things the new coach needs to instill into this team is a sense of discipline. Hard to do that if they know the guy blowing the whistle at practice really wasn’t even the front office’s first choice to begin with.
We know that Waddell was set to meet with Tampa Bay assistant coach Mike Sullivan last weekend. One would also have reason to believe that John Anderson has officially been considered in the past week or so since the Wolves season came to a successful end. But, outside of that, no real news has been forthcoming.
End the end…the important thing is to hire the right person. One that makes us all believe that the wait was worth it.
The Hockey News Buffet Line Is Now Open
Is Marian Hossa worth $50 million over seven years?
John Tortorella has been rumored by some to be heading here. But, Damian Cristodero thinks L.A. is his last option..
Will the expiration of the transfer agreement between the NHL and IIHF mean open season for European free agents?
You think Atlanta has issues this summer? Try being a Nashville Predators fan.
The Edmonton Oilers have signed forward Ryan Potulny to a 1-year contract.
And finally…ladies, think you have what it takes to be a member of the Atlanta thrashers’ Blue Crew? Well, here is your chance.
Comments
Commenting is now closed for this entry.
By R. Stroz
June 16, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this
First
By NASCAR Dave
June 16, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this
RAWHIDE! WHY have we not bought out ZHITHEAD yet???
What’s the holdup???
Can we buy out Don FRAUDell too???
By R. Stroz
June 16, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this
The poll question of the day:
Which happens first?
a) Hedberg is re-signed
b) Lehtonen is re-signed
c) The Thrashers name a coach
d) Zhitnik’s contract is bought out
e) The season starts
By Alan
June 16, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this
Hey, Rawhide, do you think it would be possible for me to, ah, sit in on the Blue Crew tryouts? If nothing else, it’ll take my mind off this off-season so far.
By Rawhide
June 16, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this
RStroz - f) pigs fly
Alan - Hmmmmm, maybe they need judges? I dunno…ask PJ or Sara or Christy or Sharon or Nix or Nikita or Maal…or Midtown Marvin… I hear they are all trying out!
Of course, I got that from Eklund (e4). So do with that what you will.
By NASCAR Dave
June 16, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this
Which happens first?
F) The Draft or F) Holik is Re-signed
By Alan
June 16, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this
Rawhide - (e4), eh? I like my chances!
Stroz - g) Record snowfall in Hell
(Not the one in Michigan)
(Or the one in Norway)
By PJ
June 16, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this
Rawhide
Not Happening! (E4) The only reason I would endure such public humiliation is if I could sneak off and go to the ASG corporate offices and uncover Top Secret information such as the length of Don Waddell’s contract and how close to the salary cap the Thrasher’s can spend this season.
By kracker
June 16, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this
Hey guys, here’s a very good draft prospect analysis.
All these guys sound very good, I don’t think even DW can screw this up.
By Alan
June 16, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this
PJ - That actually sounds like a fun plot for a television show or movie
“Behind the Thrashers: One woman endures a personal hell as a cheerleader for a local hockey team to uncover corruption in the ownership group.”
By Russian
June 16, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this
Just came back from Florida Vacation. I am wondering who is going to be our Coach. I do not know yet. Very many teams already changed Head Coach and GM (ours (Don) will stay forever like Fidel Castro). I hope they make call today or tomorrow. Draft will be at 21 in Ottawa and they have to present a head Coach of Atlanta. Also Oragnization looks like to sleep. No one do anything. It is Slow Motion in Atlanta. I do not like it.
By Brendan
June 16, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this
Rawhide, have we reached the point where not hiring John Anderson is now labeling his eventual hiring as “sloppy seconds, last resort?”
My feeling on that is, “Maybe, maybe not.” If the Thrashers are, indeed, talking to Crawford, Melrose, or Tortorella, I think that it’s still reasonable not to hire Anderson yet. Otherwise, critics will argue that Atlanta “jumped the gun” on the Anderson hire. I’m surprised Sullivan’s name is even in the hopper of ideas.
What would your reaction be to a declination by John Anderson, if he’d been offered the post?
By Rawhide
June 16, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this
The only reason I would endure such public humiliation is if I could sneak off and go to the ASG corporate offices and uncover Top Secret information such as the length of Don Waddell?s contract and how close to the salary cap the Thrasher?s can spend this season.
PJ - Very good, then. Thank you for volunteering for the job!
Brendan - What would your reaction be to a declination by John Anderson, if he’d been offered the post? - My reaction would be…IF and offer was made by the Thrashers and turned down by Anderson…that it’s a sad commentary on the organ-I-zation. I mean, he has accomplished all that can be asked of him at that level, he has said he wants a shot at the job, he could not ask for a better situation to step into the NHL given his familiarity with the players and all and…and let’s be honest here…given last season, it isn’t like stepping in the wake of Scotty Bowman.
By Hip Czech
June 16, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this
Wouldn’t Hossa basically be guaranteeing himself no pay raise for 7 years? Didn’t he make $7M this year?
I can understand the Cup factor, Pittsburgh certainly will be a contender for the foreseeable future. But couldn’t the same be said for the Rangers? I would think the Rangers would at least offer him another million per year. But, Hossa has said it’s not necessarily about money. In which case we should have paid him about 4 million this year.
If Hossa does sign with Pittsburgh, what do you think about a deal for Malone? Maybe a 3rd round pick and boulton or larsen for his rights?
By ranallo10
June 16, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this
Hip Czech — I think you’re getting Malone on the cheap with that deal, and someone like Lavallee or Stuart (maybe even Doell) would have to be included. In my opinion he’s a second line powerforward, which should garner a 3rd rounder and a prospect. However (in your defense) he is on an expiring contract, so that might be too much in return for a person who can always deny your contract offer.
Rumor has it Malone wants to play in Columbus. He and Nash would make a scary one-two punch at wing, as they’re both strong powerforward types. Still, I don’t think Columbus would do too well in their division, but it’s a step.
Malone and Staal are the supposed odd men out IF Hossa is re-signed. Hossa likes Pittsburgh, especially compared to Atlanta. He said so as soon as he got there, and the extended playoff run all but firmed up his desire to remain (again, this is from things he’s said). I think the “discount” is only for Pittsburgh, everywhere else is only considered at fair market value. As he said, if it was about the money he could always sign in Atlanta. Clearly it’s not about the money when he has a chance to stay where he’s happy.
Word on the street is that Boulton has a contract in the works. I should probably ask The Knobler to confirm this, but figured I’d post it here anyways. Also word on the street is that Mr. McCarthy is a new dad…Congratulations Steve McCarthy, I hope you enjoyed your first official Father’s Day!
By Rawhide
June 16, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this
Knobler’s on the job!!! Looks like Anderson has indeed been officially interviewed.
By Sara
June 16, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this
Knobler posted an update article today about the coaching search and spoke with Anderson. Anderson talked about his approach, which is all about offense (which I think I brought up the other day somewhere on one of these blogs). However, there is a specific quote from him that caught my attention:
“I like my teams to score goals. We’ve been in the top three in scoring almost every year,” he said, adding that not only wins games but pleases fans. “Very seldom do you see people stand up and clap for a poke check,” he said.
While inherently, that statement is true….I personally consider poke-checks VERY important. It kind of goes with considering defense important. Name me one team in recent years to win a Cup that didn’t have a solid defense? Ok, you probably could…I can’t remember off-hand who was on the TB blueline when they got theirs. But generally when the games matter most in the NHL, it becomes all about the defense. That’s why Detroit beat Pittsburgh - as an entire team they played better defense. And while many NHL coaches may be the same ones he’s faced and beaten in the AHL, the players sure aren’t. The jump in talent level from the AHL to the NHL is ungodly when you talk about the elite players. Anderson’s never had to figure out what to do about a Crosby or a Malkin or an Ovechkin.
I’m just getting a bit concerned that he’s being to blase about this.
Oh, RANALLO I answered your question on the other blog. I’m too lazy to link to it, so go find it yourself. ;p
By ranallo10
June 16, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this
I’m just getting a bit concerned that he’s being to blase about this.
I definitely agree with you there, but I think a solid assistant coach with a proven defensive system can easily rectify this problem. Sullivan fits that bill, but I still doubt he would come in for a unproven headcoach at the NHL level…especially since Sullivan has already coached two seasons at the NHL level (and he’s only 40, right???).
But I agree, defense is not Anderson’s strong suit, which is always worrisome. Winning 5-4 is exciting but it makes it easier for the opponent to shut your offense down and win 4-1. Pavelec had a fine GAA last season, but it wasn’t much better than Lehtonen’s. Is that an indicator of things to come?? Probably.
But I’d still take Anderson over any of the noted candidates.
By R. Stroz
June 16, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this
NEWS FLASH - **NOTHING
By ranallo10
June 16, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this
Sara — I noticed and have responded. You’re going to have to open a new window now…
By R. Stroz
June 16, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this
ranallo10
defense is not Anderson’s strong suit
That said, Atlanta should be a perfect fit and as an enhancement to the current state of the team, we might actually get an offense as well as a power play.
By kracker
June 16, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this
Well, Anderson being offence first is all the more reason to hire a guy like Sullivan for assistant coach. As for why Sullivan might take the job, offer him a competitive asst. coach salary…a bad econony, the housing downturn and high gas prices works the same for hockey coaches just like everybody else.
By ranallo10
June 16, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this
R. Stroz — Agreed. It might be a small upgrade, but it’s an upgrade none-the-less.
By R. Stroz
June 16, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this
NEWS FLASH - Moose Re-signed
By R. Stroz
June 16, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this
Moose Re-signed
By kracker
June 16, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this
HAHA that was the worst kept secret lately!
By Midtown Marvin
June 16, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this
Tryouts for the Blue Crew??? Oh… I’m SOOooooo THERE!!!!
Who’s else is going to go with me, girls?????
By B. Thenet
June 16, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this
Sara: That phrase bothered me too.
People clap, and throw down cash for Season Tickets, for W’s.
By Brendan
June 16, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this
I like this Moose re-signing. But I didn’t catch how many years, at what price, and if there’s any mention of a “no trade clause” in the news article.
By Sara
June 16, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this
Re: Moose thank God! I was worried they would bring up Pavs before he’s really ready or for him to ride the pine most of a season.
What’s interesting to me about this though, is that Moose got a multi-year deal. One could interpret that to mean that Pavs isn’t really projected to come up next season either. OR that the organization intends to make a commitment to either Kari or Pavs at the end of next season, and trade the other. Let that speculation begin.
By Midfield
June 16, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this
Anderson, a lot of people don’t even realize that what they saw in front of them was a poke-check. But they realize that they just got scored on, when the poke-check does not come on time. It’s safe to say that most of them eventually catch up with the fact that they have the most SOG.
By Nikita
June 16, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this
Midtown, girl, I’m there — at least, if I can get some sort of blue spy gear built into my snow rake.
That multi-year deal…I don’t get it. But Moose is always easy on the eyes, so I won’t kick him out of bed for eating crackers. I think Kari’s at a make-or-break period now — the promise is there, but he has to display mental and physical durability, or we need to trade him.
By ROBO
June 16, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this
THE MOOSE SIGNING MEANS SAYANORA FOR YOUNG LETEMIN………. NO WAY PAVELEC GETS TRADED……… LETEMIN IS THE ODD MAN OUT (with the silly blue mohawk)…………….. BYE BYE………..
By kracker
June 16, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this
Sara I don’t think there will be much speculation about if one of Kari or Pavs should be traded. That is, IF both these guys are judged to be of starting goalie quality, one needs to go. If both are starters, the question to be answered is which one.
Kari’s upcoming contract will be a factor in this of course. This assumes he doesn’t get traded or is allowed to leave via an RFA offer sheet.
By Tony C.
June 16, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this
If we’re looking at defensive-minded assistants….why on earth didn’t we get permission to speak with Rick Wilson from Dallas?? There is a guy with a history of producing good results as well as developing a whole host of good-to-great NHL defencemen (Hatcher, Matvichuk, Zubov, Robidas….) and while one could argue that these players are/were exceptional talents, guess who scouted them and recomended they be drafted/aquired??? Yep. Rick Wilson.
So I would suggest you get somebody who played with or for him (Wilson)-WAIT….we have hardly any ex-NHL guys in our org. Nevermind. What I was proposing would utilize (un)common-sense and a sense of urgency~clearly these are not attributes FUBAS exhibits.
GO BLUE !!!
P.S. I do think we should get Wilson when he contract runs out at the end of next season. His work speaks for itself-realize he’s been the guiding force behind Minnesota/Dallas’ defensive systems & scouting and development programs. Maybe it’s not Lemaire’s trap, but I would think that his record of getting the most out of players supercedes a system where even average defenders excel.
By Bob
June 16, 2008 6:54 PM | Link to this
Ah, I finally get my answer on what Anderson’s system is, as I couldn’t figure it out in the 5 or so games I watched, other than all offense, all the time
He coaches multiple systems with one common emphasis: Offense. “I like my teams to score goals. We’ve been in the top three in scoring almost every year,” he said, adding that not only wins games but pleases fans. “Very seldom do you see people stand up and clap for a poke check,” he said
Reading that proves to me what I suspected, and that this is not the right guy for us. We need defense, defense, defense. Anderson is not the right guy for us, I think this is why he wasn’t signed yet after interviewing last week. They need someone to teach this club how to play defense, and that’s not his forte.
By LAC
June 16, 2008 7:51 PM | Link to this
Waddell said. “We think he’ll be a big part of our future. We expect him to come back and be part of our team.”
This comment is about ZIT, CAN YOU BELIEVE THIS ?????????????????????
What is GOD’S name is waddell doing ?
What is going throught that PEA size thing he calls a brain inside that stupid mug he has, this is completely NUTS !
Here we need to GET RID of, DEAD WEIGHT and zit is PART OF THE FUTURE ??????????????????????????????
Good Heavens, that means klee/white/larsen/slater are still part of it too…
What this REALLY means is, MORE LOSING, NO SOLID UFA’S, # 17 GONE ASAP, NO COACH IN THEIR RIGHT MIND WOULD WANT TO COACH HERE.
Just more of the same CHEAP losing CRAP from THE WORST GM IN THE HISTORY OF NHL HOCKEY one DUMB don waddell.
Well folks IF this does not send a message of WE Don’t Give A Damn about winning or the FANS, what does ?
This team is officially out of the race next season month’s before it starts !!!! Just think about it, we’ll be writing MORE about zit screw ups as we LOSE more and more and more, Great job waddell, YOU SUCK !
By R. Stroz
June 16, 2008 8:32 PM | Link to this
Concerning Zhitnik, DW stated ”We expect him to be a big part of our team.” Does this mean Zhitnik consumed more doughnuts during the offseason?
Would someone please take the bong away from DW.
DW is doing everything possible to decrease ticket sales. What a dumb@$$.
By BigBill
June 16, 2008 9:32 PM | Link to this
Let’s play INSANE in THE MEMBRAIN when the Thrashers take the ice next season, would be fitting, and the few fans who will be there will enjoy it more than the awful on ice product we will see once again.
Don Waddell is simply NUTS !
By Alan
June 16, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this
We need defense, defense, defense.
Hence why Rawhide and a couple of us were pitching for an Anderson/Sullivan combination as head coach/assistant coach. One coach deals primarily with offense, and the other with defense (specifically the PK).
Yeah, I’ve pretty much flipped the alarm switch for Dave to come back in and tell me how ASG isn’t going to pay for two coaches, etc etc. That’s irrelevant, and we all know it.
It doesn’t matter whether we like the idea or not. What matters to me is (a) we have a coach; and (b) it’s not Torts.
By Tony C.
June 16, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this
Why not Pat Burns???
By Rawhide
June 16, 2008 10:47 PM | Link to this
I read the piece Knobler just put out there about what Waddell just said about Zhitnik.
I think Mike got punked…I mean, there is no way in God’s green earth that anyone…ANYONE…can be so fricking stupid as to say that not only is Zhitnik going to be back with the team…but that the thought of buying out his contract has never even been considered.
Not even Don Waddell is THAT stupid…THAT idiotic…THAT damn foolish.
Right??…so it HAS to be a joke. A prank on the new guy….right.
Somebody…please…tell me it’s a joke!
By PJ
June 16, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this
No Rawhide, It’s the real deal. Sure looks like DW doen’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings so we’re keeping Zhitnik and Charmin and Holik was whining just last week about not getting an offer so it won’t be long….OH Don’t look now, but here comes Bob Hartley with a pouty lip….
By R. Stroz
June 16, 2008 11:46 PM | Link to this
Everyone call your sales reps tomorrow and tell them there is no way in hell you will purchase any ticket packages with this dope of a GM who thinks Zhitnik is a big part of our team.
Re-signing Moose was a good move which was quickly negated twice over by DW’s refusal to throw in the towel on Zhitnik.
FIRE THE DUCK
By NASCAR Dave
June 16, 2008 11:51 PM | Link to this
I am wondering who is going to be our Coach. I do not know yet. Very many teams already changed Head Coach and GM (ours (Don) will stay forever like Fidel Castro). I hope they make call today or tomorrow.
Don’t worry RUSSIAN, the Coach will be named tomorrow… Better not be BEAST!!! BEAST is NOT a Coach!!!
IF and offer was made by the Thrashers and turned down by Anderson…that it’s a sad commentary on the organ-I-zation. I mean, he has accomplished all that can be asked of him at that level, he has said he wants a shot at the job, he could not ask for a better situation to step into the NHL given his familiarity with the players and all and…
EXACTLY, RAWHIDE! That’s why ANDERSON is the right man for the job, hands down!
That said, Atlanta should be a perfect fit and as an enhancement to the current state of the team, we might actually get an offense as well as a power play.
Good point. I agree 100%. Another point for ANDERSON.
Waddell said. “We think he’ll be a big part of our future. We expect him to come back and be part of our team.”
Right on LAC! This little stunt by Don FRAUDell is COMPLETELY UNACCEPTABLE!!! What the hell is Don FRAUDell doing??? Trying to kill hockey in Atlanta AGAIN??? ZHITHEAD needs to bought out ASAP!!! There is absolutely no reason to bring ZHITHEAD back, AT ALL!!! If you cannot trade him, you must eat it and take the Cap Hit! This is YOUR fault, Don FRAUDell, YOU signed him, now you must accept responsibility! It is not fair to cheat the fans with a crappy product that YOU constructed… YOU made all the choices… YOU are to blame , Don FRAUDell.
Hence why Rawhide and a couple of us were pitching for an Anderson/Sullivan combination as head coach/assistant coach. One coach deals primarily with offense, and the other with defense (specifically the PK)… Yeah, I’ve pretty much flipped the alarm switch for Dave to come back in and tell me how ASG isn’t going to pay for two coaches, etc etc. That’s irrelevant, and we all know it.
ALAN, clearly you have lost your mind brother. First of all, ASG is NOT going to pay for 2 new Coaches, Alan… I already told you this. What I say isn’t any more irrelevant than anything you say, so don’t trick yourself into thinking otherwise.
2nd of all, ALAN… If you are SULLIVAN, WHY would you come here, to Atlanta, to be a 2nd Tier ASSISTANT Coach, when you have EXPERIENCE as an NHL Head Coach… I would think coming here under this management would be considered selling yourself short, wouldn’t you agree? I think Sullivan would know a little better than that, don’t you think???
Not even Don Waddell is THAT stupid…THAT idiotic…THAT damn foolish.
RAWHIDE, I know you were kidding when you wrote that so I will disregard it. Come on now, we all know the answer to that!!!
I hope it’s ANDERSON tomorrow and NOT BEAST or SULLIVAN!!!
At least ANDERSON has a plan (OFFENSE)… Unlike stupid Waddell and BEAST with their silly dump-and-chase technique of repetitive FAILURE!!!
NUFF SAID.
By Brendan
June 17, 2008 12:05 AM | Link to this
Rawhide, Knobler’s Zhitnik column was lifted straight from The Onion. Can’t believe that no one on our blog caught that!! The Onion article, “Waddell, back from Summer Treatment—How an NHL GM overcame a serious chemical imbalance,” goes on to say how Waddell has spent most of the offseason in shock therapy, and has been hitting Bruce Levenson “bop bags” with a padded bat to work out his “aggression therapy.”
The article quotes Waddell, “When Bruce and I sit down to discuss the budget, I just think, ‘calm, blue ocean,’ while I rub my temples. And then, it all seems okay to me. Like it was just happening on TV.”
Let me see if I can find the link.
…
…
…
YESSSSSS. I’m kiddding!!! That was a joke! I do that, sometimes. I’m just as distressed as any of you to read that Knobler article. To add gasoline to the fire, if Don really meant that Zhitnik was a big part of the Thrashers future, Zhitnik’s contract is able to be extended on July 1st. Let’s see if “stupid is as stupid does.”
By NASCAR Dave
June 17, 2008 12:07 AM | Link to this
Edit: Re: Zhitnik
YOU signed him, - Via trade for COBURN.
Sorry about that.
But a silly trade, nonetheless, it appears…
By R. Stroz
June 17, 2008 12:24 AM | Link to this
At first I was being facetious about DW being delusionally optimistic; however, after reading the article on Zhitnik, I truly believe DW is delusionally optimistic, otherwise known as not playing with a full deck, whacked, crunked, loco, nuts, f-ed in the head.
If this guy really believes stuff like we are only a couple of players away from a Cup contender, practice was fine even though McCrimmon orders players off the ice, and Zhitnik is a big part of the team next season, the Thrashers are doomed.
DW is truly bordering on insanity and the fans are the only ones that can see it.
I wonder if the other GMs at the draft will ask DW if he believes in the Easter Bunny and Santa or whether he thinks Osama Bin Laden is really an OK person who just needs a little guidance.
Unbelievable.
By Rawhide
June 17, 2008 12:33 AM | Link to this
245 days…still no coach….Waddell still GM 2-1/2 months after the targeted firing date of April 7…..now Waddell indicates that he has NEVER CONSIDERED BUYING OUT ZHITNIK’S CONTRACT!…that he has NEVER THOUGHT ABOUT FREEING UP THE SPOT ON THE ROSTER BEING CLOGGED UP BY ZHIT’S SLOW SPEED, AGING LEGS AND $3.5 MILLION CAP HIT???
HOLY GOD ALMIGHTY!!!!
I’m so PI$$ED that I’m starting to write in ALL BOLD CAP LETTERS like NACSARDave!!!!!
OH…this is just a bad dream…we’ll all wake up soon.
There’s no place like home
There’s no place like home
There’s no place like home
Auntie Em…There’s no place like home!
By R. Stroz
June 17, 2008 12:38 AM | Link to this
After the Zhitnik comments, would anyone in their right mind want to coach the Thrashers with Waddell pulling the strings?
Why would anyone accept the Thrashers coaching position when their failure is predetermined?
Does anyone want to look that desperate to take a NHL coaching position?
By Sharon
June 17, 2008 12:39 AM | Link to this
Well, Waddell didn’t say Zhitnik was coming back as a player, just that he’d be a big part of their future. Maybe he’s being promoted to Head Coach.
Hahaha
By R. Stroz
June 17, 2008 12:41 AM | Link to this
Rawhide - Your next post should be “Waddell needs strong prescription medication.”
By NASCAR Dave
June 17, 2008 12:47 AM | Link to this
See RAWHIDE… That’s what BRendan/Bob/Sage/LAC/NASCARDave/R. Stroz have been saying forever now… Don FRAUDell is the problem here folks!!! He CLEARLY has NO UNDERSTNADING of ANYTHING involved with constructing an NHL Hockey team…
What’s next??? RECCHI as our 1st line RW??? KLEE—ZHITHEAD #1 D-Pair???
What about LARSEN, KLEE, SLATER, WHITE??? Have they been bought out yet??? Or are they silly ole Donnie’s next examples of the new “Legends Of Blueland”???
Who’s this Top-Pair D-Man they’re talkin about signing… Adam Foote???
My god, this is an absolute joke.
But, then again, looking at who’s pulling the strings here, nothing surprises me any more…
Are we the new Hartford Whalers???
NUFF SAID.
By Brendan
June 17, 2008 12:48 AM | Link to this
Five months ago, I was serious about the possibility of the ownership asking the NHL to step in and run the Thrashers. I believe the league’s approach is “laissez-fair.” That is, they want their owners and managers to run the various teams. In short, they “trust” them.
The NHL expects them not be off the charts, but at least “decent” in their handling of their various clubs. The NHL also knows that someone has to finish LAST every year, just as some team will win the Cup. For the league offices, as long as the Thrashers aren’t losing money hand over fist, they won’t view the situation as anything critical. If the team, however, appears to be insolvent. That’s another matter. The salary cap was partly established to ensure 30 healthy clubs. With revenue-sharing dollars, Atlanta can’t be losing very much money. They “break even” around $38.5 million, from what I hear. And if they are compensated to the tune of $6 million, then they can spend up to $44.5 million before they start losing money. I think the team spent $42-43 million last year. So, they very well may have turned a small profit.
The point being? I doubt Commissioner Bettman’s office has a problem with the way the Thrashers are run. What do the league offices care if the Thrashers are merely “schedule fodder” for the 29 other teams. It only becomes a problem when fans stop paying to see the product. Let’s check out the “Opening Night” attendance and then compare it to games playing shortly after Halloween. If whatever attendance was Opening Night is 4,000 to 6,000 fans less come November 1st, that’s something that cannot be ignored.
By Rawhide
June 17, 2008 12:56 AM | Link to this
What do the league offices care if the Thrashers are merely “schedule fodder” for the 29 other teams- Ya know, Prof. Brendan…it’s not just that we are schedule fodder…but after seeing the amount of former Thrashers who were playing for playoff teams last spring…we seemingly are the NHL’s farm club.
Savard? Who needs him?
Dupuis? No place for THAT type of hustle here.
Cobourn? No…we’re better off with our future in the hands of Zhitnik!
Hossa…Metro…Hnidy…there really is no place on the roster for their kind!
By R. Stroz
June 17, 2008 1:02 AM | Link to this
It’s time for everyone who is disgusted with the direction of the Thrashers to be heard.
Go the Thrashers draft party, don’t spend a dime, bring your BULLHORNS, and incessantly chant FI-RE WAD-DELL.
My goal is to be asked to leave. That doesn’t mean I’ll use profanity, it just means I’ll be heard loud and clear. However, if there are 50 or 100 or even more of us, they can’t kick us all out. The more protestors, the better. Stop complaining, stand up and don’t shut up.
Sage, LAC, Bob, NASCAR, Brendan its time to be heard. It will only cost the gas to get there. If you’ll go, I’ll forward an email for free parking.
But for the love of hockey in Atlanta, show up and be heard.
By NASCAR Dave
June 17, 2008 1:21 AM | Link to this
Sounds to me like RECCHI/HOLIK are about to be re-signed…
NASCAR Dave fears BEAST is about to be named Coach tomorrow…
All signs point to NOTHING CHANGING… Am I correct????
But I seriously question how many fans will stand up and let their displeasure be heard about this silly Dog and Pony show Donnie FRAUDell is running here… How many of you will REVOLT???
Enough is enough! This is absolutely PATHETIC that we are 3 days away from the draft, and a Coach has NOT been named yet… Didn’t they say at the Town Hall meeting first Priority was a Coach???
So what will you faithful Thrasher fans do if BEAST is named as Head Coach, after all of this lollygagging and cryptic double talk??? Will that be enough for you to finally see the light? Will you finally see that Donnie FRAUDell is killing our Franchise???
I hope so, because it’s being rubbed in your faces, and I for one will not tolerate this crap anymore.
My money will be spent elsewhere…
Oh, and Hey Donnie, while your at it, when you get 50 cents on the Dollar when Kovy walks out of here, can you at least send him to Tampa or Nashville??? Some of us would like to witness incredible talent like that, and those places are closer than the place you sent our other incredible talent, Hossa, when you let him walk for 50 Cents on the Dollar…
You’re a PATHETIC Snake, Don FRAUDell… I can’t fathom how you can show your slimy face around town… You are an embarrassment to yourself and to Us, the FANS!!!
NUFF SAID.
By R. Stroz
June 17, 2008 1:35 AM | Link to this
Does anyone know Don Waddell’s full name, including middle initial?
By Jameson
June 17, 2008 1:38 AM | Link to this
So, have you guys figured it out yet? I believe that the thinking is, if we wait until we’re the only team without a head coach, instead of getting into a bidding war with other teams over the best coach, we take the few that are left, and take the lowest bid from them.
By Brendan
June 17, 2008 1:49 AM | Link to this
Rawhide, it’s a step up for the Thrashers to be considered the NHL’s “farm club.” They hadn’t even been good for that! And truthfully, Hossa and Dupuis weren’t cultivated by us. We acquired them by trade and failed to retain them. Same deal with Marc Savard and Frank Kaberle. Coburn was “gift,” I’ll grant you that one. He was an 8th overall pick that we didn’t develop properly, and was foolishly dealt for “immediate help” on our blueline, to save a faltering Coach’s job. For a while.
I’m not sure that we did all we could to further develop Mark Popovic, either. As I understand it, he is eligible for unrestricted free agency on July 1st. Popovic was drafted by Brian Burke. He’s young, and he’s still got potential in him. Why the Thrashers haven’t re-signed him is a bit of a mystery. He won’t cost much. Steve McCarthy is also slated for unrestricted free agency. McCarthy, two seasons ago, anchored our PP Unit when our PP Unit was actually good. But his plus-minus rating ballooned up, as it apt to happen to anyone on the Thrashers. Even Hossa was a -15 while here, and he’s a perennial Selke Trophy candidate.
Some of the players we drafted late managed to stick around the league for a while. Darcy Hordichuk, Simon Gamache, Tommi Santala … they never really set the world on fire.
It’s debatable which Thrashers draft pick has been the best. Some say Heatley. Some will say Kovalchuk. A few still hold out hope for Lehtonen. But, by and large, we don’t do a good job of developing talent for the rest of the league to enjoy. I’d even argue that the Flyers developed Coburn!
By The Other Bob
June 17, 2008 1:51 AM | Link to this
RStroz….I think his full name is:
Don IHAVEABSOLUTELYNOGODDAMFRICKINGCLUEWHATIAM DOINGANDIAMAFRIGGINBRAINLESSIDIOT Waddell.
I don’t know if there is a “jr.” at the end or not…
By R. Stroz
June 17, 2008 1:56 AM | Link to this
The Other Bob - LMAO
By NASCAR Dave
June 17, 2008 1:56 AM | Link to this
No, Jameson…
You put out smoke to start rumors, then when the smoke clears, you keep the guy already on the payroll… And say “We thought he was the right guy for the job all along.”
Cost effective, sure. I am puzzled why they think we fall for this crap?!?
We may be in GA, but we are not all DUMB…
Face the Facts, Look at the Stats, ANDERSON is the guy!!! Can you do ANYTHING right ASG???
By NASCAR Dave
June 17, 2008 2:10 AM | Link to this
R. STROZ, Donnie’s making the picks in Ottawa, right? So he won’t be at Philips to hear you… Who will be there to hear you that actually matters???
WHO is actually choosing “our” Coach???
Is it Donnie??? The ASG??? A Combination of the 2???
This is becoming a cruel joke to the fans… It’s simply inexcusable… I don’t see how they can justify to anybody to spend their money on this junk…
The more “hands-on” Donnie is with these decisions, the more F’d things are gonna get…
GO DAWGS!!!
By R. Stroz
June 17, 2008 2:19 AM | Link to this
WHO is actually choosing “our” Coach???
Right now, no one!
By LAC
June 17, 2008 3:43 AM | Link to this
Damn Stroz, YOU ARE RIGHT on with that… I would LOVE to show up and be asked to LEAVE, but with son getting married in Kansas City… Well I doubt there will be a draft party II at The Sprint Center…
I will be watching to see how waddell SCREWS things up this time, PLUS, will the player drafted even want to play here ?
Nice city, Nice area, Nice building, GREAT FANS, BUT SUCK owners, STUPID AS HELL GM and star players see the pending DOOM, and WANT OUT,so do we fans…
What does it take for the NHL to step in ? Or What does it take for these Clown owners, who the OTHER bob just LOVES, to sell out ?
It’s awful to watch !
By Alan
June 17, 2008 7:03 AM | Link to this
ALAN, clearly you have lost your mind brother. First of all, ASG is NOT going to pay for 2 new Coaches, Alan
Newsflash, my friend: The ASG is already paying for two coaches. Hartley and McCrimmon. They’re paying for more, too, if you count other assistants.
But let’s move on. Seeing the same ol’ crap from the same ol’ people, clearly I have lost my sanity as well as my mind.
Like you do with a scratched 45, I’m going to either throw this godsforsaken LP out the window, or I’m going to move the damn needle.
By Bob
June 17, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this
the Thrashers are doomed
Yes, yes they are and they will continue to be as long as Don F’In Waddell is left in charge of making decisions for this club. I’ve known this for many years, when will the owners figure it out? Until the day we get a real GM in here, everything else is moot and just more of the same old, same old. I’ve said that every summer for about 5 years now.
Sage, LAC, Bob, NASCAR, Brendan its time to be heard
I’ve already told the club, and frankly, I don’t care anymore as the will has been sucked out of me by being so demoralized knowing that Waddell is being left in charge. After being season tix holders from Day 1, we pulled them this summer and told them that until they get rid of Waddell and bring in a real GM who is allowed to make the right moves, they can forget about us as customers.
I love hockey, I really do. I love the Thrashers, I really do.
But I hate this feeling of being completely demoralized knowing that with Waddell continuing to be left in charge of making the decisions, we are simply screwed. I’ve known this from about year 3, why do the owners not see this?
With Waddell in charge, I really don’t care anymore. I don’t care enough to go down and chant, I don’t know that I’m even going to care enough to buy the half price or cheap scalped tickets next year. I think I’ll just stick with my high def Center Ice and save a lot of time, energy, and hard earned cash(wonder if these numbnut owners will even figure out they need to get our games in high def next year—probably not if Waddell has any input on that).
By kracker
June 17, 2008 9:55 AM | Link to this
I’m as disturbed by Waddell’s Zhitnik comments as anyone else but keep in mind that the BOG meeting and the draft both happen this week…so DW, if he has any hopes of trading Zhitnik, has to do the political speak about Zhit so as to not torpedo his own efforts at trading the guy. As slim as that hope is, it is the best solution for the team, one that would remove both the player and his large salary. This is one where we literally would trade for a bag of practice pucks.
By Michael Shapiro
June 17, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this
ZHIT is a “big part of our future” because once again he’ll come into the season OVERweight and out of shape. Don, send the stinker down to Chicago, or better yet to Gwinnett. Maybe he’ll get the idea that a return to Russia is in HIS future. ZHITNIK, you S*!?#@K
By LAC
June 17, 2008 10:19 AM | Link to this
Bob, I could not agree withyou MORE !
I had 5 seats from year one until, what will be two seasons ago, went to a number of games in the WINNING year, but last season, went to opening night and that was it.
I am so sick of OUR NHL team being so bad, it really hurts to see it.
GM’s are like a sales manager, you bring inn the RIGHT people to raise sales, or in this case points which equals MORE FANS, but when the product is bad or sales arte not made you sure as HELL don’t keep the same guy calling the shots when he has NOT produced on a consistant basis.
These owners cannot be THAT blind, or are they ? They are businessmen, and it is damn sure time they acted like some and dumped waddell like a hot rock, If they do not this team’s support will go down the drain for good.
By Nikita
June 17, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this
kracker, word. I also can see DW going in absolutely any direction with Zhit right now, as it’s his contract year — he’s gonna be hard to sell due to his price, and depending on how he plays I wouldn’t be shocked to see him back in the lineup or traded after the season starts. The problem is that the more he played last season, the worse his stats got — somebody has to do damage control, or we might end up paying a lot of money for him not to play.
What about LARSEN, KLEE, SLATER, WHITE??? Have they been bought out yet???
Nope, and I doubt they will. Well, with the exception of Larsen, who supposedly has been punished all season for being of the old guard. He hasn’t played well, but he’s hardly had any ice time.
If our defense wasn’t dismal, Klee would be a 7th D-Man — and he has no problem with that. But last season he carried a ridiculous number of minutes, especially for his age, because with our lack of system and lack of proficient play from most of the D, he’s our third-best D-Man. He’s good in the locker room, too, and is more mentally steady than 99% of his teammates. And he’s cheap. Why would we buy him out?
We paid too much for White, but unless we can move him there’s no reason to lose him. He’s capable on the third, and occasionally on higher lines. He’s relatively old and relatively small, but he can play a good two-way role for limited periods of time. If the rest of the team were in order he could spend some significant time scratched, which would be optimal for his durability.
And finally, Slater…I think we failed to develop Slater. I don’t think Slater failed us. He’s young, has delivered elsewhere, and really ought to be playing better than he is — but he spent most of the season on the PK (where he did well) and on the checking line (which isn’t really the best place for him given his history and size) — when he shone, it was on higher lines. There isn’t any reason to buy him out unless there just isn’t room for him in a position that’s actually appropriate to his abilities — and even then we should be able to trade him or waive him to the Wolves.
So…I’m really excited about camp. As far as I’m concerned we have a relatively short list of issues to address there, and it’s all about who we get and how they develop over the summer. The issues are:
The need for at least three lines of competent D that can play together and consistently bring it. Here’s hoping that means that we don’t resign Stevie Mac, and we purchase at least two top D-Men. We can fill in with what we already have.
The bottleneck in the forward positions wherein we have no top line to anchor Kovalchuk, and total chaos on the third. I’m curious to see how the kids come along, if Thorburn and Slater continue to improve, how Christensen does, and if we’ll obtain at least one top-line center or wing to help Kovy.
Acquisitions in general, which should be comparatively large players. We’ve done reasonably well with some of our smaller players, but a lack of heft and enforcement really hurt the performance of some lines.
By Bob
June 17, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this
so DW, if he has any hopes of trading Zhitnik, has to do the political speak about Zhit so as to not torpedo his own efforts at trading the guy
This is true. He could be talking him up in order to try to get his trade value up.
However, the only way someone trades for him is if they have a worse scouting department than us. Chances of that? Oof.
What’s the deadline to buy someone out?
By Alan
June 17, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this
Bob - The buyout period in the NHL is from 15 June to 30 June of any given year. So we can hope that if DW doesn’t manage to trade him, that he’ll buy him out before the free agency period starting 1 July.
By Rawhide
June 17, 2008 11:07 AM | Link to this
Kracker makes a very astute observation about what D-Dub might be trying to pull off. If it is so, then I give him points for at least trying to move Zhit.
But come on folks…what NHL general manager is is going to hear Waddell talk about Zhitnik as a “big part” of the the team’s future and then say to himself…”Wait…no…we can’t have Atlanta with that type of power-house blueline!!! Quick, what can I do to lure Zhitty away from them and boulster MY defense with him”???
PUH-Leeze!
Just buy him out and be done with it!
By NASCAR Dave
June 17, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this
And finally, Slater…I think we failed to develop Slater. I don’t think Slater failed us. He’s young, has delivered elsewhere, and really ought to be playing better than he is — but he spent most of the season on the PK (where he did well)
No NIKITA, You are WRONG, again… First of all SLATER did not join the PK until the last 10 games… By that time it was too late to utilize him properly in that role…
Isn’t it funny how the LA Kings ANNOUNCED that they were suspending their Coaching search until AFTER the draft???
What have WE done??? If we are gonna do that also, WHY have we NOT already announced it???
WHY do we wait until the last possible minute for these things???
Because here we are 245 days later, and we have done NOTHING.
Yep, Hartford Whalers, Pt. 2… Ask any 5 random people who the Whalers were… You will be lucky if 1 of them answers you correctly…
Well, be prepared folks, because with stupid a$$ Donnie FRAUDell running the show here, this team is headed for Non-Existence… Just like the WHALERS!
Everything Donnie FRAUDell touches turns to SH++!!!
NUFF SAID.
By Alan
June 17, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this
Dave - The primary factors in the Whalers’ departure from Hartford were market size and the lack of a modern playing facility.
Strike one.
By Nikita
June 17, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this
Ok, so I’m wrong re: Slater’s duration on it, but I’m not incorrect re: how he did on the PK not bad given all the other b******. You’re still failing to explain to me why we should buy out someone below average age and peak age, who makes league minimum, and appeared to be warming up at the end of last season.
Rawhide, I really think the ASG is too cheap to release an asset at Zhit’s price — I suspect they’ll put him on the waiver wire before they buy him out (and, honestly, someone might pick him up at half salary — his full salary is ridiculous).
I’d like to ship out or place on notice all of the following: Koz, Exelby, Stevie Mac, Zhit, Larsen, Popovic.
By Buzilla in CT
June 17, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this
So the Thrashers are coming to CT!!!!!
That would be awesome!!!!
By joyaman
June 17, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this
*By Rawhide
June 17, 2008 12:33 AM | Link to this
245 days…still no coach….Waddell still GM 2-1/2 months after the targeted firing date of April 7…..now Waddell indicates that he has NEVER CONSIDERED BUYING OUT ZHITNIK’S CONTRACT!…that he has NEVER THOUGHT ABOUT FREEING UP THE SPOT ON THE ROSTER BEING CLOGGED UP BY ZHIT’S SLOW SPEED, AGING LEGS AND $3.5 MILLION CAP HIT???
HOLY GOD ALMIGHTY!!!!
I’m so PI$$ED that I’m starting to write in ALL BOLD CAP LETTERS like NACSARDave!!!!!
OH…this is just a bad dream…we’ll all wake up soon.*
WAKE UP FOLKS!
There is no end in sight for this type of incompetence. Once it’s officially confirmed that DW will be in charge next season, I will contact my season ticket rep and have Waddell’s name placed prominently in the comments box of my cancellation record (cc’ing ASG - for what it’s worth). My Thrashers ST dollars will then go directly toward Falcons STs, with enough money to spare to take in any Thrashers game I want to see (based on the opponent of course) via scalped tickets. No consession purchases at these games (I’ll easily sneak in a few Chick-Fil-A sandwiches).
Suggest others do the same - reward a team that lowers prices and changes management when things are clearly not working, while sending the only kind of message that matters to ASG, that we will not stand for their doubletalk and mismanagement of a franchise that would pack the fricking building on weeknights if it could put a competitive product on the ice.
-joyaman
By ranallo10
June 17, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this
Nikita — How does Slater get a pass but you feel Exelby, McCarthy and Popovic don’t? None are over the age of 27 (26, 27, 25 respectively). McCarthy’s game improved over the season, despite his horid +/-, and he was a physical presence defensively. Popovic was never truly given the time to play, but was only a -4 in his 33GP. Exelby, though he’s not great at positional defense and gets out of position too often when looking to kill an unsuspecting player, was the only true physical presence throughout the season.
I’m not disagreeing with you about Slater, but I can’t see why you would give one player a pass but cast off three similar players. Slater was a -10 (which means little truly, since seemingly the entire team was a -).
Hokie — No love for Toews, I’ll risk him dropping to the third round personally. If he’s gone, hopefully Carle is still available. Staal might be a reach at the bottom of the first (and I might instead be sold on the Swedish dude that one poster brought up…was it MB? Hip Czech? kracker? I don’t remember now).
By Alan
June 17, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this
Buzilla - Yeah! I hope you’ve got room for all of us to stay at your house. :P
By NASCAR Dave
June 17, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this
Dave - The primary factors in the Whalers’ departure from Hartford were market size and the lack of a modern playing facility.
Strike one.
ALAN You are MISSING the Point!!!
Nowadays, unless you are a hockey fan, you have no idea who the Whalers were…
In 10 Years from now, unless you are a Hockey fan, You will have no idea who the Thrashers WERE… Because it will be past-tense, as the team will be gone and disbanded!!!
And WHO’s fault will THAT be???
Do you see what is happening here, ALAN???
It is time to stand up and revolt!!!
Wear your HOSSA sweaters when you hiss and jeer at the Stupid Idiots running the Crappy Draft Party… Bring in your own Candy, Snacks, and Food…
Rub it in their faces like they rub their INCOMPETENCE in yours!!!
It is time to do what is right!!!
Come on, ALAN, we DESERVE BETTER than this!!!
By Alan
June 17, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this
Come on, ALAN, we DESERVE BETTER than this!!!
We do deserve better. It’s nice to see that now you’re up for an active revolution against the ownership instead of a passive one. Go to games, wear your Hossa or Hnidy or Burnette sweaters, etc. Now you see what I’ve been saying all along!
I just had to point out that Atlanta isn’t going the way of Hartford. It was an irrelevant comparison, because in ten years, we’ll still have the Thrashers. We’re a major market (8th in the US) and we have a modern facility for the team to play in. This is a completely different problem than the one experienced in Hartford.
It’s unfortunate that we can’t teach the ASG how to properly own and operate a hockey franchise. The marketing department does f*ckall, the general manager can’t tell the difference between his a* and a hole in the ground, and it appears the fans who were beginning to warm up to hockey in Atlanta have instead decided to return to a Falcons football failure.
I love hockey and I love the Thrashers. I’m going to do all I can to make sure my voice of discontent with the idiot decisions of the ownership group - a group that contains a former owner of the Washington Capitals - is heard. Verbally. Loudly. On television, on the radio, and in the press as well as on this blog. I am not happy with the direction of this franchise.
By NASCAR Dave
June 17, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this
ALAN How pi$$ed off will you be if BEAST is named as Coach???
Just wondering, as I’m looking to gauge the type of reaction we are about to see from everybody here when he is named…
By Brendan
June 17, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this
Alan is tip-toeing around another subject that ought to be discussed. Jeff Schultz mentioned it briefly in a column a few months ago.
Don Waddell, in 1998, when he a