Ice Man

By JB

June 22, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this

Hey Rawhide, good blog.

I was just reading that we may be acquiring negotiating rights for Brian Campbell. Of course Chicago and New York have interest as well, but we have money to throw around.

linkage

By five_hole

June 22, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this

Rawhide great analysis, as always.

I don’t want to rain on John Anderson’s parade; I’m really hoping that this is the guy to turn our franchise around. And, after all, his team won the Calder this year. However, I have noticed recently a trend where teams are hiring minor league coaches. The Capitals, with Boudreau. The Panthers hired DeBoer as their new head coach. Why, when there are “proven” coaches still available? I suspect that these “rookie” coaches are cheaper. Now, I’m all for giving guys a chance, and Mr. Anderson proved he could win in the AHL, but you have to wonder why guys like John Paddock & Joel Quenville are out of work?

On a different subject, I want to give a shout-out to Glenn Anderson and Igor Larionov, two guys who gave me immeasureable pleasure watching them give their all playing the sport I love. You two deserve to be immortalized.

By kracker

June 22, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this

Before I read it, let me just say “Wow!” This is a Brendan-esque blog today, Rawhide.

By Rawhide

June 22, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

JB - Thanks for the link. Let’s hope there is indeed something to that!

Five_Hole - I think there is something more to the run of new coaches in the league. Darrin Eliot, I believe, wrote an article on this a week or so ago and indicated that it has to so with teams wanting to bring in younger coaches with a fresh vision to the game to relate more to the young stars that are entering into the NHL.

Kracker - “Bendan-esque”? High praise indeed.

By ben

June 22, 2008 10:39 AM | Link to this

Alan,

Thankyou for that. I always felt that Hossa never really wanted to be here. Perhaps Kovy genuinely wishes to stay here, perhaps not. My issues with Waddell is not of personal nature, in the main, it is that he seems not to be able to draft in the lower rounds. Perhaps we should hold jugement on Mr. Waddell until such a day as he retires. That is a book I’ll be reading. Due to the fact I’ve been doing a paper all weekend, I’ve been reading this blog a lot. RAWHIDE, thanks for this. I hate sociology. I mean I love the class, but I hate the journal articles. Sometimes I wonder if some of those authors understand the words that come out of their own mouths! But I digress. It seems to me that there would be a lot less anger if we could just have them state that we will not be subjected to a team moving out of town. No, I don’t see them winning the Stanley Cup anytime soon. But I do love them, and will keep rooting for them no matter what.

By HookyBob

June 22, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this

Good summarization of the past week Rawhide. Two big steps were completed and I think a longer blog was in order. You did well.

Also, liked the comments on what lies immediatately in front of us. July 1st is not far away.

I would say that what we accomplished in “to do” #s 1 & 2 affects where we head in #3..free agency. Does hiring an offensive coach make if more important to pick-up a solid defender, or center? Ruminate over that one for awhile. It should not go unnoticed that the current holders of Lord Stanley’s cup had both the fewest SA/G and most SF/G.

Who’s on the market July 1st that could fit into the Thrasher’s (and coach Anderson’s) team and help us the most?

By kracker

June 22, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this

Here’s another link from the Ottawa Sun on the

Thrashers and Brian Campbell

By kracker

June 22, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this

HookyBob Not too many centers out there….is the Langkow resigning a done deal? He’s one guy we would want that we can afford. Sign Campbell first and then maybe a quality center would look at the Thrashers as a destination city to either sign with or be traded to.

By Rawhide

June 22, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this

Kracker - I don’t know if the Langkow deal is done or not…but it seems like Calgary is determined to keep him.

Too bad…that would have been a nice signing if we could have pulled that off.

Now…can someone answer a question for me? There are 30 teams and seven rounds in the NHL entry draft. That adds up to 210 selections.

However, the Detroit Red Wings picked last with the 211th pick. Now, it seems like there were 31 selections in the 2nd round.

Can anyone tell me what the deal is there?

By kracker

June 22, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this

RH Phoenix was given a compensatory pick because a player they had drafted previously, forward Blake Wheeler, decided not to sign with them after completing his NCAA college career, becoming a free agent instead. So they were awarded an extra pick to make up for this.

article

By volgrad1985

June 22, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this

I read that the extra pick was a compensation pick for a player from a previous draft that went unsigned, though I can’t remember which team it was.

By Rawhide

June 22, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this

Kracker & volgrad1985 - Thanks…I do remember the Wheeler situation in Phoenix, but mis-remembered the additional draft pick given them.

Thanks again.

By JB

June 22, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

Kracker, your link didn’t work but I found it for ya:

http://www.ottawasun.com/Sports/Hockey/2008/06/22/5950831-sun.html

Its surprising because it says we are willing to offer in excess of 7 million dollars a year.

By kracker

June 22, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this

Thanks for fixing it JB Well, about that $7M offer, we read it on the internet so it must be true ;)

By JB

June 22, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this

Well I just look at it as using Hossa’s money, plus a little more and signing a defenseman with a lot of offensive upside that is responsible.

If I had to choose between Campbell signing and Hossa coming back this summer, I’d choose Campbell.

By kracker

June 22, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this

Similar to the Blake Wheeler situation, the then wretched Atl Braves were to select first in the 1990 draft and had every intention of selecting Todd Van Poppel with their #1 pick. Van Poppel told the Braves that if they selected him, he would go play football or basketball instead. So the Braves played it safe and selected Chipper Jones.

Van Poppel ended up being a complete flop and has been on a number of different teams since being drafted while Chipper is Hall of Fame bound.

For my money, I wouldn’t touch Blake Wheeler.

By Tom

June 22, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this

If he was an honorable man, the first thing he would do is quit since the Thrashers do not have the nerve to fire Waddell (.com)

By Sage of Bluesland

June 22, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this

kracker—excellent memory!, but let me correct you in stating that Van Poppel threatened to play baseball in college (Stanford) if the Braves used the top pick on him (which they wanted to do, as you mentioned).

The A’s, who were a powerhouse at the time, took Van Poppel with a pick late in the 1st round and he gladly signed. I know I was hopping mad about it.

But, karma worked its magic and, like you also mentioned, we ‘settled’ for Chipper Jones—and he will go into the Hall of Fame one day. I hope that very story is used during his induction speech…

But, now back to hockey, the Braves were committed to building from the ground up—and had been since the late 1980s. Bobby Cox as GM doesn’t get enough credit for building that team (and Schuerholz gets far too much credit for the foundation which was already in place and beginning to blossom).

The Thrashers couldn’t be further from those Braves, organizationally and everything else in between. Delude yourselves if you would like, but until all of the “Legends of Blueland” get off of the back pages of the game-night program and onto the ice in the big-boy arena, then it’s nothing but smoke-and-mirrors…

Be honest with yourselves, for once, on the real state of affairs in this figurative joke (otherwise known as Blueland)…The truth becomes crystal clear, I can assure you!

We hire the NHL modern day equivalent of Eddie Haas and the sheep are in a tizzy!

It would be funny if it wasn’t so sad…

By five_hole

June 22, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this

Thanks to Kracker and JB for the link to that article. Would that there were a little more substance to the smoke … .

Rawhide Sorry, I’m not the kinda guy that believes stuff like “bring in younger coaches with a fresh vision to the game to relate more to the young stars”. You listening to “Kumbaya” on your ipod? I’d rather have a John Torterella, who would rule with an iron fist and drill the players until they couldn’t skate anymore. And between you and me, this seems like a complete role reversal.

However, that does raise the question; exactly what is Anderson’s style? Will we play the “left wing lock”? Will we attact till they drop, ala the Oilers back in the ’70s? Any clues?

Between Hossa, Holik & Rucchin (a complete waste of money), that’s about $11.5 million we have to spend on free agents. We’d d#mn well better get someone better than a retread hasbeen.

By Alan

June 22, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this

I’d rather have a John Torterella, who would rule with an iron fist and drill the players until they couldn’t skate anymore.

I’m sorry you would want to torture our players, media, and fans with a guy like Torts here. If there’s one thing that would run the NHL out of this market, it’s a man like him.

You should ask Perrin about his time with Torts. I had an opportunity to at the Draft Party, and it wasn’t a pretty picture that he painted.

By R. Stroz

June 22, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

Rawhide - Unless I missed it, re-signing Kari should be on the to do list as well.

By Brendan

June 22, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this

Rawhide, excellent, excellent blog. I couldn’t have agreed more on the topics and content. And, above all, the length. Nothing wrong with long posts, as long as they’re relevant, and chock full of salient points. (Put on a pot coffe for this post.)

I am here to deliver praise for Don Waddell’s offseason moves, to this point. Given that there was no way in Hades he was going to land a “big name” Coach, I love the choice of John Anderson. I’m not sure if it was a 2-year, 3-year, or 4-year deal. Such matters are kept INTERNAL by the Spirit Group, as … well … if they fell into enemy hands, they could compromise our very national security. Heyyy, don’t think Bin Laden isn’t sniffing around for details on Waddell’s contract and that of the new head coach, John Anderson. Think about it. And now you can laugh. Out loud. Don’t suppress it. Let it out. It burns more calories that way. I am huge proponent of freedom of expression. And laughter is the best expression of all.

Moving right along, Free Agency is almost upon us. And guess what, Rawhide? I barely sipped my Maalox during the draft. My stomach wasn’t upset, in the slightest. I give Waddell a “B” for this draft. He may have found us a real gem in Nicklas Lasu, pick #154, the Left Winger from Sweden, 5’11”, 176-pounds. He’s years away, obviously. But that’s what latter round draft picks are intended to be, namely, an investment in the future.

And the future is now, in terms of FREE AGENCY. (Grabbing my Maalox again) Okay, gulp, here’s where Don typically fails the MOST. Waddell’s penchant is to go after aging vets, who are yesteryear’s All-Stars, who are now overpriced for their longterm value. Well, doesn’t this describe players like Mats Sundin, Jaromir Jagr, Brendan Shanahan, Rob Blake, Adam Foote, Bobby Holik, Chris Chelios, Sergei Federov, Peter Forsberg, perhaps Petr Sykora, etc. Suffice it to say, these are no longer players around which to build a club, given their age. They are good players, whose bang for the buck is diminishing. They are the sort of players any team would like to add as the final pieces to a Stanley Cup-winning puzzle. It is not, however, a smart investment for a team that is rebuilding. It is a far wiser move to “spend, spend, spend” when a team is actually closer to winning the Cup. Sadly, this is not where the Thrashers find themselves entering Season Nine, despite owning eight (8) picks in the Top 10, since 1999.

But let’s not Waddell-bash for the moment. The “game plan” ought to be to find some quality players around which to build for the future, since the team is in “rebuilding mode.” That’s a TALL ORDER for an organization whose players largely find themselves plotting their “exit strategies.” As in, “Trade me right frekkin now! (Then slams down the phone.)”

Another MAJOR OBSTACLE Waddell and Levenson find themselves battling … is that of “faith-based crisis.” Huh?? No, this has nothing to do with religious ministry. But it DOES have everything to do with RE-SHAPING SPORTS AGENTS’ PERSPECTIVES regarding the Atlanta Thrashers as a potential destination for their TIER ONE clients.

I repeat, “Huh?” Okay, imagine that you’re a sports agent. Still with me? Your client is Brian Campbell or Marian Hossa or … even Jaromir Jagr or Mats Sundin. Your clients tell you, “Show me the money!! Annnd, put me on a winner! I want a Cup!!!”

Everyone clear on that??

Okay, why does the sports agent call Don Waddell and the offices of the Atlanta Thrashers? Answer: They don’t. Waddell has to call them. Atlanta’s not a market known for spending to the cap limit on Opening Night on an annual basis. It’s happened ONCE (1x) in 10 years, eight seasons. Atlanta does not enjoy the benefit of reknown hockey ownership. And Atlanta is not a particularly well-managed club. Yes, that will do.

When the sports agent tells Mats Sundin that Atlanta offered $6 million, Sundin says, “That’s nice. But my answer is no.” When the sports agent says, “They offered 3-years at that price, guaranteed.” Sundin repeats, “That’s nice, but my answer is no.” When the sports agent says, “Don just told me he’d go up to $7 million for each of those three seasons.” Sundin’s answer remains unchanged. Why?? Mats Sundin would like to win a Championship before he retires. Ideally, he’d like to do that in Toronto. Or, at a minimum, he just wants to play out a final contract for the Leafs, more than likely.

So, where does that LEAVE us, the Atlanta Thrashers? Well, the only way to get a younger, Unrestricted Free Agent, is to find one that not many other teams really want. **Danger, Will Robinson!!,” as the hooks start flailing.

Why don’t these GMs want this hypothetical player? (1) He’s not really worth the money (See Wade Redden). (2) He’s an attitude problem and/or is a “coach killer,” (See Jagr). (3) He’s not really that good, or that good anymore (See Derian Hatcher, Adam Foote, Bobby Holik). (4) He might just have “off the ice” issues, like alcoholism, spousal abuse, runs-in with the law, or other substance abuse issues. Etc.

Well, that’s what we’re up against. I think we have a shot at Wade Redden. He’s arguably a Tier One guy, who other GMs won’t feel is worth $7+ million a year. For Redden, he’ll have to accept his current salary of $6.5 million, or take less, to be with a winner. Once Redden accepts a contract that is substantively OVER-VALUED, he dooms not only himself, but the team that signs him. In the case of a small market, the damage is particularly devastating. (See what Holik’s contract did to Atlanta, lo these past three (3) seasons.)

Good luck to Waddell and the Thrashers. I just hope they don’t overspend for the caliber of player that they obtain. Waddell has shown that he can obtain “good value” for the money by extending the years on a contract. (See Todd White’s 4-year / $9.5 million deal.) But, I really don’t think Waddell needs any more 3rd line centers, as UFA acquisitions (like Todd White was). Okay, who made it all the way to end???

By ranallo10

June 22, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this

Brendan — I’m surprised, I read the WHOLE thing this time! Now I must ask, why do you feel Redden is not really worth the money? How much is he worth in your mind?

By Alan

June 22, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this

I think a lot of people here feel the organization will maintain the status quo simple because they’ve almost always gone cheap. If this story about Atlanta being interested in Campbell is true (and not just a rumor), then I honestly think the Thrashers will try to land him here. We’ll probably overpay, sure, but a 7yr/$50m (average ~7.16m/yr) doesn’t seem quite that unfounded. Then we can offload Zhitnik somewhere. Anywhere. Send him down to AHL via waivers.

Yeah, I’m optimistic. So sue me. I think the owners and Waddell are waking up. I’m almost certain there were people present at the Draft Party who sent the word along that Waddell was boo’ed when he took the stage, and the amount of disdain towards the ASG in general.

We’re stuck with Waddell for the interim. Let’s see what kind of product he fields on the ice.

Another six game losing streak, though, and I’m serious about having that “Fire Waddell” banner made.

By MB

June 22, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this

We should at the very least be able to bolster our defense through the FA market. Campbell would be great, but Hainsey, Streit, Finger, Hejda, Rachunek, Mara, and Orpik would all bring improvement to our blueline.

We don’t have a lot of room back there currently, so I think one dman is realistic.

Things seem a bit thinner looking for a UFA C or RW, especially younger than early 30s. Guys like Williams from Chicago, Ryder, Hlinka, or Miettinen aren’t exactly going to thrill the masses, but there aren’t a lot of options out there unless you’re going to overpay for a past-his-prime guy.

I like the idea of boosting our scoring with a top-line UFA C or RW, but I’m having trouble finding good options for that. Thoughts?

By Brendan

June 22, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this

Ranallo, when I look at a player, I don’t just look at the numbers. Stats are great! They really are. It’s some way of quantifying performance. But I think a GM ought to look at the “totality of cirucumstance” when evaluating a player. Redden doesn’t suck. But I sure wouldn’t want to pay him $6.5 million. I feel like I could get two pretty decent players for that same money, and have more depth. I’d go up to $5 million. If pressed, $5.5 million. Beyond that, I have to look at what two other quality defensemen might cost me. Then make a decision.

Obviously, arguments can be made that players with similar stats will make more than that. Well, great. Let some other GM sign him at what they think a fair price is. When Ottawa let Chara go, they counted on Redden to be the defensive leader. To my satisfaction, he didn’t achieve that objective. Other will argue that he did. Fine.

Is a team better with Redden on it? Sure. Provisionally. The provision is that his contract doesn’t “sink” the team and limit its capacity to bring in the necessary players, when the time arrives for doing just that.

I have little doubt the Thrashers organization would trumpet Wade Redden’s acquisition to the Stars above. And that Levenson would say, “See, I told you we know how to sign free agents.” Yeah, at $7.5 million a season?? But Brendan, we knew we’d have to overpay for him??

Look, is overpaying for a players a sound business strategy? Yes or no. Well, there it is. It’s better to build through the draft. Cultivate talent, and re-sign it when it hits RFA status. Unrestricted Free Agency is meant for “tweaking” a roster, not overhauling it. Or salvaging it.

By UpperDeck4Life

June 22, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this

My only problem with going after Campbell is the amount of years and money we would have to give him to come here. We could pay 7 million a year for him, or 7 million total for a defensive pairing of say Jason Smith and JM Liles. Liles is almost the same player that Campbell is, but had a bad year last year. Smith brings leadership and defense first hockey to our back line that is really needs. A top 4 of Havelid, Enstrom, Liles, and Smith, plus a 3rd pairing of Valabik and Klee and I think this team is in the playoffs next year.

By polskidawg

June 22, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this

Rawhide– excellent work as always.

I would agree with you on point #1, in as much as the Thrashers needed to create some stability at the head coach position. It helps the players know, at least, who will be calling the shots (and lines) this season. It takes that concern out of the equation. We’ll see if it was a good choice after we know what the roster looks like, and can he elevate the team.

As for point two – I would suggest that we truly don’t know whether the draft was a success or not. We won’t know for 2 – 4 years, likely. If Bogo bombs, but some lower draftees surprise, then it could be called a “C”. Likewise, if Bogo is great, but all others a bombs, that’s still a “C” to me.

If Bogo is the bomb, AND some lower draftees surprise – that’s a clear “A”. I can’t even consider the fourth possibility…

As for point three – UFA. As usual, Brendan offers several good thoughts, but I really can’t see Tier 1 guys signing here even if over paid. I’d suggest that our best as scenario would be to sign 2 second-level, relatively young defensemen under the hope that Bogo makes the team, Zhit is waive/traded/sat down, and Klee is used in a way that works for him (10-12 minutes a game/3rd line).

Names? Maybe a few mentioned early by MB, like Streit, Rachunek and Finger, as well as guys like Rozsival, Kalinin and Lilja. I’ve love Orpik or/and Hainsey, but their going to make big money in July, while getting lots of offers from far better teams.

Anderson and DW will have to offer the promise of big minutes and PK/PP time.

The only forward that makes me happy is Perry, and he’s a RFA. No chance of DW trying to pilfer a Duck as long as his buddy Burke is the GM.

By Hockeyfan

June 22, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this

We hired Anderson? Cant be. DW said that it wasnt true…

By JLH

June 22, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this

Just a quick repeat of a bit of my post on Knobler’s blog:

If we can’t get the right free agent here, then we’ll have to trade for someone and hope we get good enough next year to keep him.

ESPN Rumor central has Kubina and Antropov possibly available at Toronto. Kubina at $5m/yr for 2 yrs and Antroopov at $2m for 1 yr. They are both big (6’4” and 6’6”) and effective, and Antropov (26/30 last year…and a plus skater for the last 5 yrs) is Russian. Could he play well enough to keep Kovy here? Would playing with Kovy help us keep him?

By Viking

June 22, 2008 9:25 PM | Link to this

Here comes a wish when it comes to our offense for next season(s):

If there is any reasonable FA’s that possess at least some of Redwing’s Holmström type of play - Go get him (or even them)!!!

Tomas Holmström’s ability to bug the crap out of defensemen and goalies in front of the crease seems to often be overlooked and never will show in any record books, but it is in reality worth pure gold. When a defenseman is preoccupied, or a goalie can not see the puck when it is shot, it makes life much easier to be a goal scorer, doesn’t it?

For kicks, I went through the regular 59 games Holmström participated in last season. (He was injured around Christmas, New Year’s and for a month in spring.) There was a lot of video watching, since this is not a stat that is documented anywhere because of it’s non-clearcut nature. His official stats (according to NHL.com) for the regular season shows 20-20-40p (after watching the videos it should actually have been 21-19-40p). Since he was not used defensively, he also did not enjoy any “goalie on the bench freebie points”. However, he was directly involved in the creation of another 28 goals - likely much more so than the the players that got credited with an assist!

(By the way, he kept on in the same style during the play-offs, but I got worn out looking at videos, so I can not give you the stats.)

While Holmström probably is the best in the game in front of the net, I am convinced that an improvement in this area would pay big dividends in Thrasher’s goal production. If this presence in front of the net is not performed by a new player(s) - can somebody at least be retrained to do this vigorously next season?

By Thrashy Thrashy

June 22, 2008 10:16 PM | Link to this

I’ve built a time machine.

Let’s go back in time and sign Dino Ciccarelli. We’ll put him in front of the net.

Problem solved.

By R. Stroz

June 22, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this

Everyone - If Campbell signs with the Thrashers, give PJ some props. PJ met Campbell’s mom at All-Star Weekend and really gave her a sales pitch on how much we would like him to play here.

By PJ

June 22, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this

Ahhh shucks Stroz, it was nuthin’. I helped her bail out of a power point presentation about saving the earth and global warming.

By PJ

June 23, 2008 12:01 AM | Link to this

I am very excited at the thought of watching the 6’-2” 197-pounder throw his weight around next season.

Rawhide I couldn’t agree more!

(Sorry, but you left yourself wide open there, couldn’t resist.)

A seriously well put post Sir but please don’t put a wager on that third smiley face.

By Alan

June 23, 2008 12:03 AM | Link to this

PJ - That should be incentive enough for her to maybe point her son in our direction, dontcha think? :)

By NASCAR Dave

June 23, 2008 12:12 AM | Link to this

Well I’m just waitin for DONNIE to bring BRIAN CAMPBELL and a # 1 Center… Like They PROMISED… 2 Top Line D-Men… Remember???

Yeah I can’t wait for this one… We ARE spending BIG Money, Acquiring BIG Talent, right??? Isn’t that what you promised??? Is that what I should look forward to??? If that dosen’t happenn… Then What??? What should happen then??? What happens if he brings in more retreads…

WHOSE Fault is IT, THEN???

NUFF SAID.

By Brendan

June 23, 2008 12:39 AM | Link to this

Polskidawg, if DW came away with Roszival and Streit, under “reasonably-priced” contracts, each 3-year deals, I’d say he did well, given the totality of his set of circumstances.

If Brian Campbell winds up in Atlanta, R.Stroz, I should think PJ will break Leo Boscalia’s record for being the most hugged person on Planet Earth. All she has to do is open a booth at Philips Arena, near the CNN entrance, with a sign that reads, “I convinced Campbell to come to Atlanta.” Then get the Guiness Book of World Records people to witness the onslaught that ensues.

PJ could probably be passed around the entire Philips Arena, section-by-section, “mosh-pit” style, and make a few laps around, without her feet ever touching the ground, before the craze wears off, like “doing the wave” did in the ‘80’s.

But uhh, I would think even Buffalo has a better shot at “Soupy” than we do, even if we bribed Campbell’s Mom to tamper in the negotiations.

By Colorado Koolade

June 23, 2008 1:26 AM | Link to this

If you people think you’ll get Campbell your crazy. No way he goes there. Not a chance.

By Alan

June 23, 2008 2:44 AM | Link to this

If you people think you’ll get Campbell your crazy

Part of me feels the same way. However, you never know what will happen on the Free Agent market.

If we do get him, though, I’m going to laugh in your general direction.

By Tony C.

June 23, 2008 6:02 AM | Link to this

I like the fact that they’re (seemingly) serious about going after Campbell.

Cool. We didn’t even hear/read “Thrashers” attached at anytime to any of last year’s Big 3 UFA pivots… something to think about there. for whatever reason, I posted this earlier on the last blog:

*5_hole

Ok. So you do think he’s that good. Me, I see a guy who is quite talented, but was pretty well neutralized on several instances, in fact consecutive games in the playoffs.

Now full marks to Dallas Stars’ staff for devising schemes to isolate and negate Campbell’s impact. My point is, if we’re going to “give him the keys to the castle”, then he better be able to step his game up and overcome that sort of thing (at least 1/3 of the time-dude was a ghost for several games in the Sj-DAL series).

Playoffs are a learning experience, and I’m sure Msr. Campbell learned a lot this past spring. I’m also confident that Campbell would flourish under a guy like Mr. Anderson.

I just would like to see us have another credible scoring threat that is not named Kozlov. Russian said he’d like to get Antropov from Toronto, and seeing as how they’re breaking up the Sundin line, why not go after him. Dude really found his game riding shotgun for Mats last year, and I’m pretty sure that most guys in the league will think more than twice before running @ #17 the way Rutuu did last year if big Antropov is on his right.

Question is, who would we have to give up??*

By five_hole

June 23, 2008 7:06 AM | Link to this

Tony C. they used to say the same thing about Hossa; great scorer during the regular season and invisible in the playoffs. Happened with both us and Ottawa. I’d say he had a pretty good playoff run.

Will we get him? Probably have the same chance as I do of having Rebecca Romain returning my calls.

By Rawhide

June 23, 2008 8:27 AM | Link to this

A seriously well put post Sir but please don’t put a wager on that third smiley face. - Look, PJ…you have the inside track on this Campbell thing via his mom…you just close the deal. OK?

PJ could probably be passed around the entire Philips Arena, section-by-section, “mosh-pit” style, and make a few laps around, without her feet ever touching the ground, before the craze wears off, like “doing the wave” did in the ‘80’s. - Yeah, Brendan…and it’s been MONTHS since she has done that!

Probably have the same chance as I do of having Rebecca Romain returning my calls. - Look, Five_Hole, let PJ get this whole Brian Campbell deal worked out for us then, just after the ‘mosh pit’ is done with her…I’m sure she’ll get right on that for you!

By Bob

June 23, 2008 9:04 AM | Link to this

How many dmen do we already have under contract for next year? I’d think one would have to be moved to be able to sign a Campbell, but the question is here, does Campbell want to play for a winner or is he a money first guy? Anyone have insight on that?

Under contract at D next year are Zhitnik at $3.5m, Havelid at $2.9m, Exelby at $1.4m, Klee at $1.25m, Enstrom at $750k, and Valabik at $925k. I think we can pencil in Bogosian as the 7th guy already on the roster. So, who gets moved? Exelby would be my guess? I’d prefer to see Zhitnik moved buy no one has as a bad a pro scouting dept. as Don Waddell, so that’s unlikely. Exelby might have some value still, move him and let Bogosian take his place. Then, you have Valabik as your 7th man and you can sign a UFA dman. Sound good?

Don’t know that Campbell is that guy, but what the hey, let’s dream for another 8 days until that bubble is burst. Let’s say you sign a Campbell, your d could look like:

Campbell-Havelid Enstrom-Bogosian Klee-Zhitnik

That’s a d we could live with, no?

By Rawhide

June 23, 2008 9:19 AM | Link to this

Bob - My desire would be to dump Zhit…buy him out, waive him…whatever.

Also, I hate the thought of splitting up Havelid and Enstrom…maybe it has to be done, but the two worked well last season.

Maybe:

Campbell/XLB - Havelid/Enstrom - Bogosian/Klee

7th = Valabik

By PJ

June 23, 2008 9:27 AM | Link to this

I wish my encounter with Mrs. Campbell was enough to sway her but I highly doubt it. Perhaps Brendan may have more luck with his “Rico Suave” routine.

Bob You put Klee and Zhit in the line up before Valabik? You put cost before value?

By Bob

June 23, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this

My desire would be to dump Zhit…buy him out, waive him…whatever

I completely agree with you. I’d have waived him, sent him through re-entry waivers, then bought him out the first available day if no one claimed him, if I was in charge of decisons on this club. But alas…

You put Klee and Zhit in the line up before Valabik? You put cost before value?

I don’t see Valabik being ready yet. I was underwhelmed by him during his time up here last year, and while watching him in the Turner Cup Finals, I didn’t see much improvement. He looked decent against AHL speed, but NHL speed would overwhelm him, I think. I love him as a fighter, but you can’t waste one of the 6 d starters on an enforcer.

That said, I do think he’s better than Zhitnik, and if I was making decisions, Zhitnik would be long gone already and Valabik would have a spot on the 3rd d pair with Klee. But alas, I’m not making decisions, Waddell is, and it looks like he’s sticking with Zhitnik, so I don’t see him putting a guy “who’s a big part of our season” in the press box all year, that’s why I think he will put Valabik there.

By NASCAR Dave

June 23, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this

Hey everybody, Blog Cop HOKIE has directed us to come over here, we are NOT WELCOME on Knobler’s blog???

WHY is THAT??? LOL.

RAWHIDE/BOB - I suggest dumping Zhit, and trading EXELBY/KLEE…

Go with:

HAVELID/ENSTROM
VALABIK/(FREE AGENT)
BOGOSIAN/(FREE AGENT or KULDA)

And HOKIE needs to relax a bit… He’s getting a bit testy over there! LOL

By five_hole

June 23, 2008 11:11 AM | Link to this

If we were lucky enough to sign Campbell, I’d probably run the pairings like this:

Campbell - Exelby Havelid - Enstrom Klee - Valabik

Zhitnik = 7th man

I’m making the assumption that DW is not going to try and rush our top draft pick. Zhit can try and outplay Klee for the 6th spot.

PJ anytime you want us to put our hands on the keyboard and pray for Campbell, just let me know.

On a non-hockey topic, I want to comment on the passing of the funniest man I ever had the pleasure to see; Mr. George Carlin. The world is just not as funny today.

By Rawhide

June 23, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this

Five_Hole I will second that. I was saddened to hear of his passing this morning.

And good idea about a prayer. PJ, we’ll need you to get right on that!

Now, quick…RStroz, Brendan, NASCAR Dave…we are gonna need more chairs since Hokie is sending all the Waddell-bashers over here from Knobler’s blog.

Trixie - Order out for some pizza for lunch. We might have a crowd over here.

Sage - We’ll need a “No Sheep Zone” sign for the door!

Chop-chop, folks….let’s get a move on!!!

By polskidawg

June 23, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this

Bob/PJ/Rawhide - I COMPLETELY agree on Zhit’s worth, especially last season. However, the chances of him being cut are next to nothing - DW isn’t able or willing to admit such a colossal mistake.

Like you, Bob, I don’t see Boris as a viable NHL player - yet. He has the desire and drive, but not the skills needed to take up valuable minutes.

Let’s suppose Anderson is a motivator without equal. Somehow, he can rejuvenate Zhit’s play to a level close to his play of 3-4 years ago.

If that is the case, I’ll offer this as reasonable line combos:

Enstrom - Havelid Zhit - Streit (or Roszival, Finger) Klee - Bogo (or Kulda) 7th - X (or Popovic resigned)

By Alan

June 23, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this

Looks like I’ll need to get started on that banner, eh Rawhide?

By Rawhide

June 23, 2008 11:43 AM | Link to this

Alan - Get started? WHAT…you don’t have it DONE ALREADY???!!!

polskidawg - Great comments…but really…I’m as busy as sin in Las Vegas right now. I got Waddell bashers on the way over…thanks a PANT-LOAD, Hokie…and this place is a wreck!!!

Trixie??!!…TRIXIE??!!…STAFF??!!….Dammit, where is everyone??

By NASCAR Dave

June 23, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this

Question for the EKLUND crowd….

How many (predictions, sic) did he get right THIS time???

LOL.

By kracker

June 23, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this

Hey! Stroz, NASCAR, Sage, LAC, Bob, et. al.….Maybe you need to switch tatics and try to get DW to buy out/waive or at least sit Zhitnik down. That is an area where public pressure should work.

While we are all assuming his play won’t be much improved over last season, it’s possible Zhitnik will be in better shape, ready to play (for a new contract) and raise his level of play to something like we saw after that $&@*# trade. That would be most welcomed.

By NASCAR Dave

June 23, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this

Maybe you need to switch tatics and try to get DW to buy out/waive or at least sit Zhitnik down. That is an area where public pressure should work.

Hey KRACKER! I think we’re doing just fine accomplishing BOTH tasks…

Wouldn’t you agree???

By ranallo10

June 23, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this

Unless ownership decides to invest heavily into a UFA, Zhitnik is not going to be removed from this roster.

As I’ve highlighted in Rawhide’s last blog, without Zhitnik’s contract the Thrashers aren’t even CLOSE to fulfilling the CBA requirements of being above the minimum salary threshold ($16M below the ceiling, which is undetermined at this time — likely in the mid $50M area).

IF he’s bought out, someone of greater value will have to take his place. Cheap NHL contracts and rookies will NOT be enough to raise the salary to that ~$40M level.

Now, I don’t deny it’s POSSIBLE such a thing happens (Zhitnik’s buyout), but the signs point to it not happening. First, there haven’t been many high dollar contracts bought out in the NHL since the CBA allowed it. Second, the Thrashers have NEVER bought out a player’s contract. Third, Waddell has intimated that Zhitnik will remain a Thrasher.

So, I’m assuming those three things mean Zhitnik will play a big part (cough) financially (cough), and at most a $3-4M player will be joining this roster. All the ASG needs to do is play rookies, sign a $3-4M player and they are in the clear CBA-wise.

And for the record I think it’s more possible that Rawhide is the next GM than it is of Campbell signing in Atlanta.

By R. Stroz

June 23, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this

For all who perused this post the other night, my apologies.

For those that haven’t, this is my mandated Waddell bashing per Hokie’s instructions :)

The folllowing excerpt came from Knobler’s article on the hired/not hired issue concerning Anderson

Waddell, through a team spokesman, denied the report. He said earlier Thursday evening in a teleconference with reporters that he was continuing to do “due diligence” in the coach search and that no announcement was likely before tonight’s NHL draft.

NEVER TRUST WADDELL

Atlanta fans, or any fans, deserve a GM who tells the truth, follows through on his promises, and admits his mistakes.

When the Orwellian sales line is used up (think five year plan, rebuilding, playoff guarantee, incremental progress), DW moves on to another set of lines, as if the prior sales lines never happened.

DW doesn’t use the rebuilding line anymore, in its place, he says we are two or three players away.

Zhitnik couldn’t be pawned to anyone for a draft pick. Zhitnik serves no on ice purpose to the Thrashers. Buy him out before June 30 and move on.

The problem is DW can’t admit mistakes due to his ego. Responsible people admit mistakes, apologize, and move on. DW has never demonstrated this level of reponsibility.

DW is done in Atlanta. He, nor FUBAS, realizes this fact. DW has no credibility with the fans or the press.

Nearly everyone at the draft party knew BOGO was the third pick. DW didn’t get the pick right, he just didn’t screw the pick up. When the fan base is at the point that the prevailing thought is, please don’t screw up another draft pick, it speaks volumes about the GM in the fans eyes.

Free agency is coming and every ticket package holder is sitting on their money until they see Levenson and DW follow through with the promises made in the “Open Letter to the Fan” and the Town Hall Meeting.

If past performance has shown anything about Waddell, this is it.

NEVER TRUST WADDELL

By R. Stroz

June 23, 2008 12:20 PM | Link to this

Here’s another issue that needs to be taken care of:

NAME KOVY CAPTAIN

By NASCAR Dave

June 23, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this

12:16 Post by STROZ is Right On!

STROZ for GM!!!

See I think HOKIE needs to go back and read all the blogs he missed over the weekend… Then he might calm down a bit and quit being so damn paranoid about everything…

ZHITHEAD serves NO PURPOSE on this team.

How HOKIE and RANNALLo can justify keeping him is absurd…

I would suggest a Cheerwine instead of the Typical Blue Kool Aid they are accustomed to…

Carry On, Gang

By Alan

June 23, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

Rawhide - Sorry, I overslept! I’ll get right on it!

Stroz - Definitely! I whole-heartedly support giving the C to Kovalchuk! He’s earned it.

By Brendan

June 23, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this

PJ, I believe Mrs. Campbell may yet be a young, vibrant woman. But I’d wager she’s married to Mr. Campbell. And the routine might not go over so well. Not even if I endeavored to pull it off, entirely in French. Then disavowed whatever it is that I said in that language.

Shifting gears, to paraphrase Marian Hossa, Brian Campbell has an agent for a reason. That’s what he pays him for, … to handle trade deadline situations and offseason signings.”

Let’s see where Hossa winds up. I’m very, very curious about that.

Hey, let’s start a poll! Anyone can get in on this. But what of the choices? Phoenix, to be with his brother? Montreal, like the NHL TV commercial insinuate? Right back here in Atlanta?? How about my choice, Detroit? And we can’t leave out Pittsburgh, either? Others have suggested Minnesota has the cap room for Hossa.

But until then, everyone grab a broom and start tidying up!

By NASCAR Dave

June 23, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this

Hey, let’s start a poll! Anyone can get in on this. But what of the choices?

BRENDAN… Mark NASCAR Dave down for PHOENIX or DETROIT…

I think HOSSA is smart enough to realize that his chance for a Cup will be easier out West…

By Rawhide

June 23, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this

Looks like Tampa Bay will make it official tomorrow by naming Barry Melrose the new Bolts head coach.

By R. Stroz

June 23, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

Brendan - I’ll take both Hossas and Campbell in Atlanta.

Now, I’m going back to Mike’s Hard Lemonade.

That would sell some tickets though.

The dream, the impossible dream….

By ranallo10

June 23, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this

NASCAR Dave — I don’t drink, and I have no clue what Cheerwine is, thanks for offering though.

Neither Hokie nor myself have ever said we wanted to keep Zhitnik. I can’t speak for him on this one, but I have constantly said two things regarding Zhitnik…

1 — I never liked him, even before his trade to Atlanta. At no point in his career did I think “man, he’d look good in Thrasher blue(or maroon/navy)”. Upon his trade to Atlanta I was severely disappointed about losing Coburn, but understood that such a trade was necessary and predicated based on the role he’d been playing in Atlanta. I primarily blame Bob Hartley for Coburn’s trade, as his mis-use of a talented prospect (and the team as a whole) facilitated the need for a player of Zhitnik’s abilities.

Looking back, Waddell did what the owners wanted and traded a prospect, and thus kept his job. Nonis did the opposite of what his owners wanted and didn’t trade a prospect (Bourdon), and was fired. I think it’s obvious those roles should’ve been reversed.

2 — I have resigned myself to understanding the type of player Zhitnik was, is currently, and could be. His career numbers indicate last year was a VERY bad year for him, somewhat of an anomaly…since Waddell is on record saying Zhitnik is part of the plans next year, what’s the point in whining about it?

If we’re going to go into the “I wants” and not the actual possibilities, let me know. Cause then I’ll give you a laundry list of players I want even though most of them will likely never play for Atlanta.

Stroz — Anderson denied the rumors too, does that make him a liar? If the contract isn’t signed there is absolutely NO dishonesty saying what Waddell did. Since the contract wasn’t signed at the point of the story, I imagine that means someone inside our organization let it slip to the wrong person, who then blabbed to the media. Personally I’m less interested in nit-picking over a few hours and some PR GM speak, and more interested in the end result —- Atlanta has the coach who was number one on my list (well, unless Babcock or Bowman were available…so maybe I should say my “realistic” list). I understand your issue with the dishonesty, but I think you’re doing two things…1 — you’re magnifying a non-issue. 2 — you’re using this as a spring board to vent your frustrations towards the GM.

Look at the end result…did you or did you not want Anderson?

I understand you are frustrated by how it looks (bold faced denial followed by jubilant affirmations), but in this instance I think you need to get past it.

Brendan — Hossa will be doing HIS due diligence, or at least that’s what Shero (Pittsburgh GM) is implying. Personally I think he’ll be back in Pittsburgh as that club has money to afford him (though not comfortably) and an environment suited perfectly for him. Not to mention the amount of talent he’d be surrounded (read: insulated) by. So put me down for Pittsburgh, at a $7M price tag.

By Bob

June 23, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this

Brendan, your Hoss in Detroit idea may very well be the ticket for him. No chance he comes back here.

I think if Recchi re-signs here, he’ll be named captain. Kovy just isn’t vocal enough in the room, from what I hear.

By NASCAR Dave

June 23, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this

BOB - No thanks on RECCHI… I’ll pass…

Too old… We are going YOUNG this year…

By R. Stroz

June 23, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

ranallo10 - I hadn’t heard that Anderson denied the rumors Thursday night as well. I’m not doubting you, but do you have a link?

Yes, I wanted Anderson, now and last season.

Me, vent my frustrations toward the GM….well, YOU ARE CORRECT SIR

This bold caps thing is addictive:)

By Sara

June 23, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

How interesting - just got a call from my new ticket rep (since my other one apparently moved on). Get this sales pitch. I told him I hadn’t made up my mind yet (which I haven’t) because of several personal reasons and also because frankly, I want to see what the team does this off-season. As I told my new rep, while they got off to a good start with the draft, there’s still work to be done and I don’t particularly wish to pay to watch a repeat of last season. He understood of course. Then he told me, that even though I’m buying Thrasher tickets, I’m also paying to see other teams, like the Penguins, so I’ll still get to see great hockey. Are you freakin’ kidding me?? THIS is the sales pitch they are now reduced to making??? Promoting 29 other teams??? I mean, yeah, seasons 1-3 I guess that might have been a valid sales pitch, but come ON! At LEAST try to pitch me that Anderson + Bogo = better team automatically. Or, maybe, it’s worth the price of admission to see Kovy, Enstrom, Bogo, Little - our own players. Un-freakin-believable.

Don’t get me wrong - my rep seems nice enough. And as I told him, I know it isn’t his fault - he doesn’t build the team, he just has to try to sell tickets. So I’m not necessarily faulting him completely - but Thrasher marketing must suck more than I ever expected if this is the tactic they are now taking.

By ranallo10

June 23, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

Rawhide — Did you hear Barry Trotz’s interview during the later rounds of the draft? He was asked a coach’s role in the draft process and he responded:

“to stay out of the way”

He further explained that his only role is to be an adviser when situations involving “real” players arise where the GM needs to know how that player will either meld with their roster/playing style, or how that player departing will impact the current roster.

Basically he affirmed my opinion that having a head coach is not NECESSARY during the draft, but is a bonus as it’s one more voice during negotiations.

He even said how he knows nothing about these prospects, because he was too busy COACHING during the season.

Bob — I agree with you that Recchi, if re-signed, would be named Captain. Although, I haven’t heard the vocal issues, so I’m curious where you hear it from (or read it)?

By NASCAR Dave

June 23, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this

Don’t get me wrong - my rep seems nice enough. And as I told him, I know it isn’t his fault - he doesn’t build the team, he just has to try to sell tickets. So I’m not necessarily faulting him completely - but Thrasher marketing must suck more than I ever expected if this is the tactic they are now taking.

Personally SARA, I like their other New tactic of coming on the Blogs and attacking the Waddell-Haters…

SPIRIT must be running up big Overtime Pay for the Reps…

It’s actually quite amusing, to say the least!

By Brendan

June 23, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

Nascar Dave, to win, you must make a decision. It’s either Phoenix or Detroit. Not both. Otherwise, I’ll take all 30 teams! I’m sure to win, unless Hossa plays in Europe! And wouldn’t that be something!!

I’ve got Bob going with Detroit, Ranallo with Pittsburgh, R.Stoz with Atlanta (until he sobers up and makes a real pick), and I’m going with Detroit, like a I said over six months ago.

By Sara

June 23, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this

Ranallo just to be different I’ll throw out a “wildcard” and say the Rangers (although in honesty I think Pitt is more likely).

By NASCAR Dave

June 23, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this

BRENDAN… OK, OK…

I pick DETROIT Dead Things… But I still have a Funny Feeling PHX will try to seriously OVERPAY… We’ll see…

By Alan

June 23, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

For the record, I doubt Hossa goes to Detroit. The big rumor there is whether or not they move to acquire Mats Sundin.

Oh, lookie, another Swede. I’m not moving back to Detroit, I’m moving back to Stockholm!

By EROCK

June 23, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

Hossa is going to TORONTO

By Rawhide

June 23, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this

Brendan - I pick Montreal as where I think Hossa goes…

ranallo - I did not hear that…but it’s interesting, to say the least. It does go the thought that the GM is paid to place a team on the ice and the Coach is paid to…well…coach the team.

However, I would like to think that a coach’s in-put is taken into consideration.

By Brendan

June 23, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this

Rawhide, for Waddell, I think he’s going with this “by committee” approach. I can see that he would like to consult Anderson’s opinion at or before a draft. I will not fault Waddell for having that sort of “inclusion.” They are, after all, supposed to working towards the same objectives. I think it’s right for the Coach to make out a shopping list and for the GM to consult that list while picking items up off the store’s shelves. But if the shopper (GM) happens to spot a bargain, then he’s got to take it as he finds it.

Anderson can say, “I said I wanted plantains. You got me ‘bananas.’ I said I wanted parsely, you got me ‘cilantro.’ I asked for red delicious apples, and you got me ‘Braeburn, Fuji, and Rome apples.’

The GM can say, “Well, I at least got you apples. I didn’t come home from the store with pears and plums. You’ll have to ‘make do’ with the apples I got you. Don’t be so ‘nit-picky.’”

Fair enough. Don doesn’t set the budget. Bruce Levenson, Ed Pescowicz, and Michael Gearon do.

Okay, let’s tally up now, on the Hossa’s projections.

Detroit has been picked by Brendan (me), Nascar Dave, and Bob, so far.

Pittsburgh has been selected by Ranallo.

Atlanta has been selected by R.Stroz.

Montreal has been selected by Rawhide.

NY Rangers has been selected by Sara.

Toronto has been selected by EROCK.

So far, that’s six (6) possible teams, unless R.Stroz wants to make a serious pick. Imagine if R.Stroz is right?!!

Stay with me. Then Atlanta re-signs Hossa after all, and also picked up Angelo Esposito, Leveille (#29 pick), Colby Armstrong, and Erik Christensen. That’s not so bad of a deal, as far as “rentals” go.

If only, right?

Keep those picks coming!

By Alan

June 23, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this

Brendan - Hossa goes to Boston.

By Sara

June 23, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this

Stroz wishes (well - he probably wouldn’t be the only one). In theory I could see Hossa coming back here. I think he did genuinely like it here - the city, the fans (he liked it better than OTT anyway). Problem is, we’d have to be competitive in his eyes, which means major upgrades at D and C, which costs money, which means we could no longer afford Hossa - even if he considered a slight discount (like what Pitt is likely going to get). So it’s pretty much not gonna happen.

In the end, we’re gonna be better off spending Hossa’s money on D or C than him - no offense to Hoss. Course, that presumes ASG will take the money offered to Hoss and let Waddell give it to Campbell or someone. I worry they may decide to sit on it instead.

By Rawhide

June 23, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this

Did anyone know that today…June 23, 2008 is the 10th anniversary of Don Waddell being named as the Thrashers’ GM???

I would have thought cake and ice cream would have been in order…

By R. Stroz

June 23, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this

Rawhide

I would have thought cake and ice cream would have been in order…

Only if they were placed in his face.

By five_hole

June 23, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this

I agree with SARA’s assessment, with 1 slight modification. I don’t think we’re going to go after a center (or centre) in free agency. Currently signed, we have (in no particular order) B. Little, Christensen, White, Slater and Perrin. Did I forget anyone? Didn’t think so. Now, Little may eventually be a #1, but he’s not right now. I like Perrin’s effort, but he’s really no better than a #2; Christensen is a yet-to-be-seen just what he’s got in the tank; I personally like Slate’s effort, but he’s no better than a #3 or 4 and don’t get me started on why we signed White, but he’s got a long term deal.

Can any of the above play RW? Maybe, but I’m not a fan of playing people out of position. Where we have a glaring hole in our roster is RW.

BTW, I’m gonna throw out a wild card and guess (pure speculation) that Hossa goes West. I’m guessing Aneheim. Just to be different.

By five_hole

June 23, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this

I should proof-read more often.

My point was that we already have 5 centers under contract. None may be worthy of a #1 rank, but it is what it is. What we don’t have are right wings. Hope this gets in before people say WTF?

By Rawhide

June 23, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this

Five_Hole…Funny, but I was sitting here penciling in line-ups. Goalie, we?re set. Blueline, outside of a UFA signing…we have a corps to field.

Forwards…well, you forgot Stuart at center, but outside of that?I was staring at this big blank on the right side, too.

See if this works for you…Say Christensen can center a line with Kovy and Armstrong. Then Little, Perrin and White are the 2-4 centers, Slater or Stuart are the extras). We have Kozlov, Sterling and Larson to go left. Darren Haydar is RW..that leaves, assuming Recchi does not return, the next 2 from the following:

Joseph Crabb, Guillaume Desbiens, Milan Bartovic, Jesse Schultz, Joe Motzko.

By Russ

June 23, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this

In the interest of fire prevention, rather than 10 candles on the cake for DW’s 10th anniversary we could put a candle on the cake for each playoff win he has broght Atlanta in those years.

By GaVaHokie

June 23, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this

I pick Boston for Hossa.

Rawhide, don’t forget about Thorburn in your line assignments.

I just read in Ben Wright’s article that Bogosian is good friends with Todd White… so that might hold up any White trades people have been hoping for.

By five_hole

June 23, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this

Rawhide You forgot about Thorburn.

The # 1 line? I’d have Ilya with either Little or Christensen and a RW from free agency (or possibly Sterling).

The # 2 line is Slava with the leftover talent from the #1 line.

For a #3, I’d take Slater centering Thorburn & Armstrong. Armstrong’s job in Pittsburgh was a checker, and he seems best suited there. That’s a strong line.

The # 4 would be Perrin and White; I’d like to see Boulton come back (he’s cheap & tough) otherwise that’s another FA TBD. LaVallee is a possibility.

Larsen’s legs left him a season ago. He’s no better than depth. Not sure where Stuart fits in. He had flashes last year, but … .

As I look at this, I didn’t really spend much money, except for 1 RW position. The rest are callups from Chicago. Which leaves a TON to spend on Campbell. ;-)

By polskidawg

June 23, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this

Brendan - put me down for the Pens on Hossa. Detroit has a great GM, scouting, player development staff, coaches - they’ll resign what they’ve got and get a backup goalie and one D-man (Roszival?).

Five_hole - I’m with you on the center position. I don’t really like it, but DW already hinted that he is set at that position.

I can see lines of: Kovy-Little-Thornburn (I think he could break-out in a PF role)
Perrin-Christensen-Army Stuart-White-??? LaVallee-Slater-Enforcer

By Tim

June 23, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this

I pick Ottawa for Hossa. For some strange reason, I have a feeling he is going back to where he start his career.

By ranallo10

June 23, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this

SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT

Is anybody here a member of the NHLs survey panel, “NHL Fan Face Off”?

I recently got an email from them begging me to include more Thrashers fans — the obviously generic email stated the Thrashers had one of the lowest amount of fans partaking in this panel.

It’s very simple, they might send you a survey 4 times next season, upon which you’re given a time line to complete the survey online. I’ve been signed up for over a season now, and it does not appear my email has been added to any spam lists. This is sponsored through the NHL, so feel safe knowing your data is actually going to good uses (as opposed to the polls here on the AJC which serve no purpose).

If you’re interested in applying to be part of this survey panel, visit www.nhlfanfaceoff.com (I’m not linking it as I don’t want to be THAT guy). They’ll ask you simple demographic questions which will help identify where you fit, and if you qualify for the panel slots they need to fill (i.e., if you’re a Thrashers fan).

Let me know if this works out for you, I’d love to know people like us are spending a few minutes a month to try to help make the NHL more enjoyable as a fan, and also getting opinions out from the Thrashers community.

By Tim

June 23, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this

I pick Ottawa for Hossa. For some strange reason, I have a feeling he is going back to where he start his career.

By ranallo10

June 23, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this

Dammit, I didn’t even put the address in parentheses and it hyperlinked it…

Rawhide — My apologies for the “hot” link.

By Brendan

June 23, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this

Okay, Boston has picked up some steam for landing Hossa. Alan and GaVaHokie have the Bruins. The Penguins are the choice of Polskidawg and Ranallo. Detroit is the choice of Brendan, Bob, and NascarDave. Montreal is Rawhide’s pick and Sara has gone with the Broadway Blueshirts. And, uhh, if he’s serious, R.Stroz has Atlanta.

Really, truly, Atlanta could even offer Hossa $10 million a year and fit it into their cap. Too bad Hossa has no intentions of returning. And when Kovy is gone, there’s really going to be room to move!! The door swings wiiiide open then. Part of the argument we used to have was that you cannot keep Hossa and Kovalchuk at $17-19.5 million combined cap hit. But if Kovy is gone, no matter what, in 2010, you could at least trot that out there to Hossa’s agent. “Heyy, re-sign here, and Kovy will be gone in 2010, and Atlanta becomes The Marian Hossa show.” That’s a right, pretty theory, but I doubt Hossa would fall for it.

Hey, Part II to our poll. “Will Hossa get his coveted ‘no trade clause?’” I’d be very surprised if Hossa didn’t.

By Rawhide

June 23, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this

ranallo - There, how’s that?

Now, thanks to all who reminded me that I failed to mention Chris Thorburn. I guess I missed that one because he’s listed as a center at nhlscap…where I was looking at players on the roster.

OK, good, so that helps out at RW….

By Brendan

June 23, 2008 5:51 PM | Link to this

Tim a selectionnE les Senateurs d’Ottawa comme la prochaine equipe de Marian Hossa. C’est notE.

But, so far, Tim is the only one with Ottawa on the list.

By Alan

June 23, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this

I don’t see anyone offering a NTC to him, Brendan. GMs usually hate dealing with that sort of thing… unless your name is John Ferguson, Jr.

By Tim

June 23, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this

Brenden, with all the recent event prior to the trade deadline, I doubt you will see a lot of NTC. Especially with Sundin refusing to waives his and as we all know, Toronto have a tendency of magnifiing a lot of issue. However, I can see Hossa getting his NTC because he is after all the highest sought UFA this season.

By ranallo10

June 23, 2008 5:59 PM | Link to this

Rawhide — Danke schoen!

Interesting how “dammit” cleared the censors.

By Brendan

June 23, 2008 6:02 PM | Link to this

If Hossa doesn’t get an NTC, he opens himself back up to being traded back to Atlanta. And wouldn’t that be a happy day, for him?

By kracker

June 23, 2008 6:28 PM | Link to this

I second that!

Captain Kovy

By kracker

June 23, 2008 6:45 PM | Link to this

Bob You may be right on Kovy as Captain if he won’t speak up and be a leader. Although, given the responsibility perhaps he would act on it. He certainly is the leader-by-example on the ice, at least as I see it.

By kracker

June 23, 2008 6:59 PM | Link to this

Hossa > Habs (some choices are already taken)

By HookyBob

June 23, 2008 7:50 PM | Link to this

Since all my favorite teams for the Hossa pool are picked,..I took a look at who had cap space and might be in need of some offence. Colorado is my choice, with Columbus placing, Vancouver showing. (The Blue Jackets had more cap space but I just can’t see him going there as a real cup run seems like a stretch. Then again w Hossa…:)

A big question in my mind is where is Steve Avery going to land? My choice is anywhere outside of the SE Division, preferrably the Western conf. Could anyone here cheer for him if he came to Blueland? I wonder if Waddell would consult Kovy first?

A quick look at centers comes up with Curtis Brown, Chris Gratton, and Vaclav Prospal. Not sure there is a true top line center UFA out there, well, under 34 anyway.

By HookyBob

June 23, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this

Uff-da I’m not sure we should go here but I just took a look at RFAs. It made my eyes glaze over. Jeff Carter, Mat Stajen, Valterri Flippula, Jarrett Stoll, Antoine Vermemtte,…etc for centers. Jay Bouwmeester, Andrej Meszaros, Mike Green on defense.

My feeling is that DW won’t go against the unwritten code. Then again,.. desparate times call for desparate measures. Are these some waters we ought to navigate?

By Brendan

June 23, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this

I would be stunned if Waddell were to iniate an RFA offersheet. To anyone. The team has every outward sign of “rebuilding.” To grab any sort of decent RFA, it’s going to cost 1st, 2nd, and 3rd round picks. Pretty much, at a minimum. Maybe, we get away with a 1st and 3rd. But in any event, how do we know Atlanta won’t finish 29th next season? I sure wouldn’t want to owe some other team a 1st overall or 2nd overall, or any pick in the top 5 overall. I can’t even begin to imagine losing John Tavares over an RFA “poaching.” It’s just not worth it.

HookyBob, I got you down for the Colorado Avalanche, in the “Hossa sweestakes.”

By Krust

June 23, 2008 9:12 PM | Link to this

Trade Lehts, see what we can get for him. We have Hedberg and Opie, Why not let him go, Does any season ticket holder want to see him pull his groin again. IF he does I will just have to shoot him. Such waste of life. Trade him do it. He has value.

By Alan

June 23, 2008 9:12 PM | Link to this

Hooky - My gut feeling says he’ll go for Stoll first. The others you listed will get matched before you could sing the first line of the Star-Spangled Banner.

By Tim

June 23, 2008 9:38 PM | Link to this

But Brendan, Jay Bo worth that much right? A proven defencemen and young noneless. I am ready to give up a 1st, 2nd and 3rd if needed, provide the team do not finish in last 5.

By Brendan

June 23, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this

Tim, are you “confident” the Thrashers won’t be headed back to the lottery draft? See, this is the 64,000 question. I can’t bet against some 26th or 27th place finish again next year. If the Thrashers “tank” again, at least we’d be comforted by the notion that another solid draft pick was headed our way. We lose that “safety net,” if we successfully poach an RFA, but still FAIL in the standings.

The other factor to consider is this … Bouwmeester, an excellent choice on your part, by the way, would have to AGREE to sign the offersheet. He might look at it, even be IMPRESSED by it, but ultimately say, “I can’t run the risk that the Panthers won’t match it. I don’t really want to play in Atlanta.” Once Bouwmeester afixes his signature to the offersheet, it’s a binding contract. It’ll be quite some time before Jay Bo can weasel out of it.

If Bouwmeester is hoping for an RFA offersheet, it’d be to play for a team that is closer to a Championship than Atlanta is.

By Brendan

June 23, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this

Another trade draft move we haven’t talked much about what the deal between Calgary and Montreal. The Canadiens got Alex Tanguay and the Flames 5th rounder. Calgary got Montreal’s 1st rounder, #25, and the Habs’ 2nd rounder in 2009. I think GM Sutter got the best of Bob Gainey. I like Tanguay. He’s been a “money player” in the playoffs. But a Spring Chicken he no longer is!

Before we even talk about how the Flames got younger with Cammalleri, in a different trade, that #25 pick turned out to be Center Greg Nimisz, who is rumored to be quite a goal scorer. If Nimisz pans out for the Flames, this is quite a trade for Calgary. Plus, they still have Montreal’s 2nd rounder, next year! What a coup! Montreal lost this year’s 2nd rounder for Cristobal Huet, to the Washington Capitals.

I wonder if there’s any heat on Bob Gainey these days in Montreal’s media, or if they loved these moves of his?

By ranallo10

June 23, 2008 10:52 PM | Link to this

Brendan — Tanguay is 28. Not exactly on his last legs as your “spring chicken” statement makes him sound. True, he had a down year (58 points) for him (about 80 points each of the last 3 seasons prior), but he’s not an aged veteran working on his last contract.

He’s only two years older than Cammalleri, and one year younger than Hossa.

I wouldn’t be worried about Tanguay’s age, but maybe I’d be worried about his lower production (for him) in 07/08.

I’d not sure who I’d rather if I got to choose between Cammelleri and Tanguay, but there’s no discounting Tanguay’s proven experience compared to Cammelleri’s. Incidentally, Cammerlleri also suffered from lower production this past season, scoring 47 points on the heels of an 80 point 06/07 season.

By Brendan

June 23, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this

Tanguay played like he was 40 this year!! He looked two days older than dirt! And since when you make it all the way through my posts, Ranallo, reading every last little word, like “Spring Chicken?”

By ThrasherNY

June 23, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this

Havent put in my two cents lately but put me down for Hossa returning to Pittsburg with the NTC.

By Brendan

June 23, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this

Okay, that’s three now for Pittsburgh. Thank you, ThrasherNY.

By ranallo10

June 23, 2008 11:14 PM | Link to this

Brendan — I don’t know what’s come over me…I’ve limited my skimming!

Perhaps Tanguay didn’t mesh with Keenan? I find it hard to discount the man’s track record for success in both the regular season and the playoffs. I also find it hard to imagine Cammalleri’s size (5’9 185) not hurting him playing for a physical team like Calgary. Tanguay is (6’1 190).

All things considered, Tanguay is the better player. Cammalleri had one season as a 80 point player, the same year Tanguay scored 81.

By Brendan

June 23, 2008 11:33 PM | Link to this

I like Tanguay. But he’s got to play better next year. I don’t know what happened to him last season. Cammalleri is a budding player. You’re right, he’s not as established as Tanguay, who is Stanley Cup winner (2001) and even had a Stanley Cup Game Winning Goal (GWG). I think Cammalleri’s contractual status/situation weighed on him last season. He thought he was worth big money ($5 million). The Kings didn’t. They wound up in arbitration. Which means “feelings got hurt,” but the Kings got to retain their player for the season. But, like Hossa, any demoralized player is not apt to do his very best. It’s admittedly not an easy situation. On the one hand, the player thinks the organization doesn’t really want him or have faith in him, at least not enough to pay him the way he feels he should be paid. And on the other, he’s got an eye on the door.

Let’s see if Cammalleri has a break out year in Calgary.

By ranallo10

June 24, 2008 12:52 AM | Link to this

Brendan — I don’t doubt Cammalleri will shine in Calgary, especially since I envision him on Iginla’s line if Huselius isn’t re-signed. Cammalleri is definitely a talent, but he, just like Tanguay, had an off season.

Tanguay could also do very well in Montreal, playing with the #2 scoring team in the NHL and #1 PP unit. LA and Calgary for your knowledge were tied at #13 for scoring, and #17-19 PP.

If we’re going to insinuate about poor performances, then you can’t discount the situation Tanguay played in this past season in Calgary. He got a new coach, and rumors were abound saying he would be traded. I’m sure that messes with a person’s mind, and can be just as much of an excuse for poor performance as salary arbitration. Do you agree?

Statistically Tanguay is the better player. He’s the more experienced player. He’s the bigger player. He has a Stanley Cup ring.

Cammalleri is younger, faster, and a more versatile forward in terms of positions he’s able to play.

I just get this feeling you’re discounting Tanguay a little too easily, and you’re lauding Cammalleri as a smart move due to one good season in LA and his relative youth.

By Sharon

June 24, 2008 2:31 AM | Link to this

Brendan - I’ll say Hossa to Montreal.

Off the record, my oddball pick is Chicago. What? It could happen (haha).

By NASCAR Dave

June 24, 2008 3:51 AM | Link to this

BRENDAN - I think you’re right… Donnie Will NOT Poach an RFA…

However, it would not surprise me if he is unwilling to “match” an RFA sheet for LETEMIN, and take the Draft Pick Compensation instead… Especially if you are the LA Kings, and you pretty much always finish at the bottom of the league. That is an offer Donnie would have to seriously consider…

since Waddell is on record saying Zhitnik is part of the plans next year, what’s the point in whining about it?

Ranalldo, I guess you just do see it. ZHIT is done, dude. His best option is to Retire. It helps the Thrashers and he can live in Peace. He had a decent career, but his GAME is done, brother.

The BEST option moving forward is to WAIVE him, and if No one claims him, BUY HIM OUT… It is a sad story, I do agree, RAnaldo, but it’s time to move on…

It’s time to Build For the Future… ANDERSON would Bench ZHITHEAD’s a$$ after 2 Games. Rannaldo, Mark my words…

NUFF SAID.

By GaVaHokie

June 24, 2008 8:40 AM | Link to this

I think Calgary would have been better off with Jokinen and Phoenix would have been better off with Cammalleri.

Iginla and Jokinen would have been a lethal combo.

By Bob

June 24, 2008 8:41 AM | Link to this

Brendan, I love Tanguay and think that was a great move by Gainey (who is a heck of a GM in this league). Tanguay adds a piece to that Habs puzzle that is much needed and will fit in well on that club.

So, is Waddell really NOT going to buyout Zhitnik? Really? He has until Monday, right? Obviously no one is going to trade for him, why would he not buy him out? No one is THIS incompetent, are they?

By PJ

June 24, 2008 9:06 AM | Link to this

If it’s not too late I’d like to make my Hossa prediction….NY Rangers.

By Tony C.

June 24, 2008 9:27 AM | Link to this

I think DW could go after Stoll, and Burke might even give him one of Lowe’s picks from the Penner deal. Love the whole vendetta kick Burke is on.

Seriously, DW could go after Stoll (most obivous target on EDM’ roster), and I don’t think he’d build to much negative feelings outside of Lowe. Because Lowe did it not once, but twice, and because I think they probbly don’t see DW as serious competition, moreso as like a step above AHL-level development. Look at how well former Thrashers did, the guys DW took a chance on and bossomed with increased ice-time.

Anyway, I’m thinking you look UFA for a winger, and be prepred to make a trade that hurts a bit in order to get that “top-shelf centRe”… let’s be honest though, all-star pivots aren’t exactly common and the ones we really want will cost A LOT. I’m against going after greybeards usually, but what about Morrison? I realize that his best seasons are behind him, but if you put him in between #17 and Thorburn, you have the pieces to re-create the sort of line he flourished with a few years back (and go watch tape of naslund/morrison/bertuzzi, if you don’t think that wasn’t a great line).

Anyway, I think Antropov in a trade is doable, if only because they’re (TorontoMapleLeafs) in “hail damage sale” mode.

Oh, and I really don’t like what Recchi’s agent was quoted as saying:

Recchi is set to become an unrestricted free agent July 1 and Curran said his client will “see what interest there might be in other places” before giving Atlanta an answer.

But you’ve got to admit, with the anticipated number of 1st or 2nd year players we’re going to be putting out on the ice next year, a proven winner like Recchi becmes very important in the room. Would’ve been nice if DW had found a gig for Cap’n Rat, but he didn’t and we need some veteran presence. Give him an A but not the C. I say either the C goes to #17 now or maybe Coach has the guys in the room vote on it, this whole “brand new start” vibe MUST be carried out all year.

By NASCAR Dave

June 24, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this

Ranalldo, I guess you just DON’T see it. ZHIT is done, dude.

There, I fixed that.

By J(Z)

June 24, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this

Put me down for Hossa to the L.A. Kings…why not, they’re making moves and should have things turned around soon enough. Ha!

By GaVaHokie

June 24, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this

If we go after Kyle Wellwood or Jarrett Stoll, they should be cheap enough to allow Atlanta to give Brian Campbell one of those “$10 million the first year” contracts like Briere got in Philly just to get him here… then pay him $7 million the rest of the contract.

By Alan

June 24, 2008 10:57 AM | Link to this

I love Recchi, but he did make $1.75M last year. He’s probably not content with an offer of $1M-$1.2M — which is what I would have offered myself. If he thinks he can get more on the open market, thats great. He is a hardcore veteran, but he’s not worth last years price, IMHO.

His agent’s comment isn’t alarming. If other teams want to spend more on him, that’s great. But honestly, anything over $1.5M is too much.

By NASCAR Dave

June 24, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this

BRENDAN If we “Poached” STOLL, and allowed an RFA sheet for LETS, in the end they would kind of balance each other out, correct? Of course, nobody knows where each team will finish in the Final Standings, so it is a calculated “Risk”… But it could work… Donnie is not like that, though… He will go cheap and look for “bargain” players…

And for the ZHIT apologists, I have one question… WHY do you think no other teams (at all) are interested in him??? Because his career is over. We are the only team that will even bother with him… What does that say???

It tells me the people in charge are UNABLE to admit when they make a MISTAKE…

WHY is THAT???

At this point, a Waive/Buyout is the ONLY option…

By GaVaHokie

June 24, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this

Nascar… yep, that’s right… Atlanta is the only team in the league that has a player that’s too expensive to trade.

Mathieu Schneider, Michal Handzus, Lubomir Vishnovsky, Marek Zidlicky, Mike Rathje…

If we were to nab Stoll, I’d hope we’d trade for his rights first. Otherwise, I’d rather take Wellwood since he’ll be unrestricted (no qualifying offer from Toronto).

By LAC

June 24, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this

Rawhide, I just read some comments by the NEW owners of the Lightning.

They seem to be in touch with winning and want to win badly. They went on to say they will be SHOCKINGLY aggressive in the UFA market and are commited to building the team into a Champion again.

In our division we have THREE clubs who have owners who hire the correct people, tell them to get the job done and do what it takes to WIN.

What do WE have ?????????

Does ANYONE know, how about tim ? Or thrashdawg, does he know what The Atlanta Thrashers are doing to provide a winning team on the ice for next season ???? I doubt if those two know anything about NHL Hockey.

But Rawhide, I ask this… Does it not concern all Thrasher fans to see other teams wanting to WIN and commiting resourses to do so ?

Please tell me we will do something other than sign another retread that’s long past his prime, Please.

Why can we not keep up with our own division ?

What do you think about this new Tampa commitment ? Scary from my prospective, while our owners hide like the cowards they all are…

Just makes me sick !

By NASCAR Dave

June 24, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this

RAWHIDE

I found this video on the GEORGIA kid we drafted…

By five_hole

June 24, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this

So, now that Barry Melrose (Place) is the new head coach of the Lightning, when are they going to have Mullet night? I would also recommend that they could have either Grecian Formula night or Brylcream night.

Is it really a good thing to combine Lightning with that much grease?

By Alan

June 24, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this

five_hole - These guys don’t seem to have many problems.

By Rawhide

June 24, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this

Five_Hole - Greased Lighting. I wonder if it will come in a bottle…

LAC - Certainly the Thrashers will have to be just as aggressive in the UFA market. However, in signing a fre agent…it means he has played elsewhere before. Will that alone deem him to be a retread?

As for keeping up with the division…personally I’m more worried about Washington and Carolina. However, if Tampa Bay backs up their words with actions…..un-good.

NASCAR Dave - Thanks for the link. Looks like a good kid, helping out with the little guys!

By Alan

June 24, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

Also, Wellwood and Raycroft have been placed on waivers by Toronto.

By GaVaHokie

June 24, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this

They seem to be in touch with winning and want to win badly. They went on to say they will be SHOCKINGLY aggressive in the UFA market and are commited to building the team into a Champion again.

Gee… I can’t believe a new owner would say he wants to Win?

Let’s see how that works out for him with roughly $10 million to spend (to meet last years payroll).

Does he plan on spending more than what the Tampa market supports?

By Alan

June 24, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

LAC - Tampa Bay wants to win, sure. but they just hired a coach that hasn’t coached in 13 years with a coaching record below .500 in the three years he did coach. To top it off, he couldn’t even get the Kings to win the Stanley Cup with Gretzky on his roster (the Kings made it in 92-93, but lost in five.)

A shame, really. But only time will tell if the right decisions really were made this offseason.

Tampa Bay can aggressively shop the FA market, but it’s the coaching and how well the new players mesh with each other that will make the club better.

A prime example would be the 2004-2005 Ak Bars Kazan team. They were stacked with NHL talent during the lockout, but couldn’t get past the quarterfinals.

By Bob

June 24, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this

Brendan, I missed your Part II, yes, Hoss definitely gets the no trade. That’s a no brainer. In fact, I’d hazard to guess that is the reason he didn’t sign with the Pens, yet, they weren’t willing to give the no trade to leave themselves the future flexibility they will need if they sign him long term.

They seem to be in touch with winning and want to win badly. They went on to say they will be SHOCKINGLY aggressive in the UFA market and are commited to building the team into a Champion again

But, but, but Rutherford Seydel told me himself that they were committed to do whatever is necessary to bring the Stanley Cup to Atlanta. Wait a minute, he already did that, it was here during the All Star game, wasn’t it, drat.

By five_hole

June 24, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this

Alan LOL!

By LAC

June 24, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

Rawhide, in retread I mean guys over 30, no all, but several like we have signed, Klee/Holik to name a couple right off.

They were good solid players once early in their career’s, but they are at the end now and we DO not need additional players like that.

I recall last season some TV guy saying we were the second oldest team in the NHL… That we have to escape from.

That is my term on retread… Thank-You !

By Alan

June 24, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this

Marc Denis of the Lightning is also on waivers today. Methinks they’re going to go after recently bought out goalie Emery.

By Smoothie

June 24, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this

Oh what the heck, might as well go on record with some predicitions.

Brendan, I’ll go with Hossa staying in Pittsburgh for $7.5 mill over 4 years (perhaps 5), which will make them vulnerable to losing Orpik.

As a result, I think DWad makes a tepid run at Brian Campbell (4-5 years max for an avg of $7 mill), but a serious run at both Orpik and Roszival in hopes of getting at least one of them. I would not be surprised if Zhitnik is then paired with the new guy so he is “protected”. Exelby will get shopped to a team weak on 3rd pairing D-men and Bogo, Popo and Valabik fight for minutes on the 3rd pairing.

As for forwards, I think DWad realizes that the UFA crop is pretty weak this year and may opt for a true youth movement unless he can work a trade for the rights to someone like Vermette so he need not go the RFA bidding route. However, I would not be surprised to see him go after an RFA because he knows that the STH fan base will not wait patiently for 4-5 more years while he rebuilds through the draft.

So my line projections are as follows:

Kovy - Little / EC - Thorburn

Slava - EC / Little - Armstrong (I see EC playing with Army most likely)

Stuart - Vermette / Perrin - Perrin / White

Boulton - Slater - LaVallee

I don’t see us re-signing Recchi unless he takes a major pay cut (1.2 mill or less) and reduced minutes on the 2nd or 3rd line…prolly too proud and stubborn for that. This is the make or break year for guys like Stuart, LaVallee and Slater…if they can’t perform under JA, then there’s no hope. Haydar and Krog WILL NOT make this roster. Sterling maybe but he will really need to turn it on in training camp.

Damn, this is getting really long. I’ll stop there and see if anyone agrees with me.

By FormerIslesFan

June 24, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this

Brendan

Sorry for taking so long to cast my vote, but Real Life has gotten in the way lately. While I thought before the draft that Montreal would have been Hossa’s landing point, I think the potential for a Sundin deal makes a contract for Hoss unlikely. So, I’m going to throw my vote to say that Hoss will land in Detroit and that the rich keep getting richer…

By JB

June 24, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

Ladies and Gentlemen of Thrasherland, not only are the Thrashers a leading candidate for Brian Campbell(New York, Washington, Phialdelphia and Pittsburgh the others), but are also interested in acquiring on of, if not both, Pavel Kubina and Darcy Tucker from the Toronto Maple Leafs.

linkage

Is it just me or does it seem like we are not screwing around this summer?

By JB

June 24, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this

Oh and one other thing:

We want to bring back Mark Recchi as well:

more linkage

;)

By ranallo10

June 24, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this

Alan — I think Mike Smith is the goalie of the present for Tampa Bay, and Ramo is his primary competition. Skill wise Emery is a better selection (barely), but attitude wise he would not cut it in Tampa Bay.

So I guess I HOPE they sign him, so that the locker room is full of strife!

NASCAR Dave — Since you apparently don’t read any comments I’ve made, nor attempt to comprehend them outside of your cynical “me against the world” box, I’m not going to justify anything you directed towards me with an answer. You’ve deemed yourself not worth my time at this moment.

And feel free to continue making your assumptions, so long as they make you feel better I don’t care how wrong you are with them.

Bob — Were you at opening night in 2007? I can only assume you were as embarassed by Sneydel as me and dj were with his bombastic statement. AS SOON as he finished that statement I laughed, and truly understood how clueless the ownership group were. I mockingly mentioned “win the Stanley Cup at $8M under the cap?? right…”. In that instance I understood fully the calamity this team faces because our ownership group is beyond oblivious, they’re blissfully ignorant.

I was curious if you went through the same scenario when you heard the statement. I would hope most people did, as Snydel’s statement was nothing but pomposity.

Hokie — As I said on Knobler’s blog, I’d like to see Wellwood claimed.

By LAC

June 24, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this

Brenden, here is one for you sir…

Say we place zit/klee/larsen on waivers. Nobody claims them, we assign them to Chicago or elsewhere, does that relieve the cap salary of does it remain despite them clearing waivers and being sent down ?

I “thought” if they clear waivers, they then are not part of the cap structure… Right or Wrong ?

With all these other teams biting the bullit time we did too, those three have no future in Atlanta what so ever and need to be moved out.

By five_hole

June 24, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this

JB - First, I take what EK says with several grains of salt. I think he subscribes to the belief that if you throw out any rumor you hear and one happens to turn out to be true, this makes you infallible. Most of what he says turns out to be cr#p.

Second, I don’t think that There are more and more people that are saying that Brian Campbell may be down to just a few teams. Pittsburgh, Ottawa, Atlanta, NY, Philadelphia, and Washington. makes the Thrashers a leading candidate for Campbell. Even if that were true, we’re still 1 of 6 (and probably the least attractive of the bunch).

Having said that, I hope EK knows his sh%t.

By Alan

June 24, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

Eklund couldn’t find a fact about his as*hole if he were dealing with a proctologist. (e4)

Having said that, I would think Atlanta is a leading candidate. Simply put, most contending teams seem to be looking more at forwards. NYR, for instance, is looking at Sundin… and Sundin is very interested in going there. Pittsburgh is unlikely to find the cap space, unless they get rid of someone or not sign Hossa. Ottawa also has cap problems, and would have to dump salary somehow.

This means of those teams mentioned, ATL, WAS, and PHI would be the most likely destinations.

Anderson has said that his goal ia to help attract big name UFAs to our neck of the woods. Even if we don’t get Campbell, I would be quite happy with Orpik or Rozsival.

By ranallo10

June 24, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this

LAC — Waiving a one-way NHL contract keeps the players on the books if they clear waivers, but allows sending them down to the AHL. They’re still paid, which is the important thing regarding the ASG.

The only way to get them off the books is buyout (at a penalty) or trade. Since neither seems likely, I think we’re stuck with them. There is another way to get them off the books, which is the long term IR, or injury route. Since I’m sure none of them qualify as being injured beyond playing ability, that’s not possible in this situation.

JB — I will be severly disappointed if Kubina or Tucker come to Atlanta. Kubina is severly overpaid, and at that salary I’d rather see a UFA her who chose Atlanta. Tucker is a tool…I’d rather have Avery.

five_hole — Eklund does admit that his position towards these rumors is that of a conduit, simply telling us what “his sources tell him”. Personally I don’t trust a person who NEVER reveals any of their various sources, nor reveals their own identity. It lacks a foundation, thus lacks credibility. Since his hit rate is something like 2%, I don’t trust anything he types.

But to be fair, everything he says has an impact upon the hockey world, even if it’s negative. His rumors act as a conversation starter for us fans…you have to give him credit for that. The mere fact that us bloggers know his handle means that he’s getting far more traffic than most of us would prefer.

But yeah, I could definitely do without his work, especially his stupid rating system which has little to do with reality.

By Brendan

June 24, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this

LAC, Zhit, Klee, and Larsen all have “one way” NHL contracts. So, unfortunately, stashing them in the AHL doesn’t alleviate any of the financial burden the team and ownership bear.

Now, if some team claimed one of those players, the salary is gone. If some team claims one of those players off “re-entry” waivers, the Thrashers only have to pay HALF of whatever remains of the salary. The gaining team pays the other half. And in the case of a mid-season waiver claim, they only pay the “pro-rated” salary, at half-price.

Mark Recchi should be the very last contract Waddell signs, if he re-signs him at all. I’d say a fair price is $1.0 million, even. If Recchi wants incentives, then the price drops to $850,000 and if he actually hits those benchmarks, like playing 60 or more games, scoring 50 or more points, being in the top four in team scoring, then kick in another $500,000. That pushes him to a max salary of $1.35 million. But, I don’t like incentive clauses. They carry over to the next year’s cap figures. The way I see it, the GM and the player’s agent arrive at a mutually acceptable figure. And it’s done. If Recchi gets better offers elsewhere, I wish him well. I like Mark Recchi. I think he’s a class act. But he’s 41, and we shouldn’t overpay. And the Captain’s “C” needs to go to the leader of the team, which is Kovalchuk. Failure to recognize the face of your franchise with the Captaincy will just be another reason Kovalchuk walks in 2010. If Recchi re-signs, he’s more than welcome to wear the “A” on his jersey. At $1.0 million, even.

By ranallo10

June 24, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this

Brendan — I’m curious to see the responses on these boards when the captaincy is announced. If Kovalchuk wins it some will feel he is deserving, while others will feel he is not deserving (or someone else is MORE deserving).

What I’m very curious to see is the spin people will attempt to put on the selection. If it is Kovalchuk I assume a few people will say it’s Waddell’s attempt at saving his job, or a feeble attempt at re-signing Kovalchuk. If somebody else is given the captaincy I fully anticipate seeing people say that it is a prime example of Waddell’s ineptness, and that it’s another reason to confirm that Kovalchuk will leave. I also anticipate many people will claim it’s “obvious” how this one thing means so much about whatever point they’re trying to prove.

The opinions will definitely be varied and across the spectrum, much like Holik’s captaincy this past season.

I guess it’s one of those things where I’m curious to see where everyone here’s opinion lies.

By Brendan

June 24, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this

Ranallo, I do agree with you on Tanguay. It didn’t seem like he and Keenan ever really got on the same sheet of music. Certainly, that had to be a mitigating factor in his performance. Tanguay is a good player. Better than the last season’s numbers indicate. I’m sure Alex will like playing on that top-ranked PP Unit in Montreal. Likewise, I think Cammalleri will like trying to make the Kings rue the day they didn’t give him the contract he wanted two seasons ago. Well, he’ll certainly get that opportunity, playing in Calgary.

Time will tell if these moves were good ones. Or not. The best trades are the ones that benefit both teams. This trade does that. And Greg Nimisz and that 2nd round pick of Montreal’s will take YEARS to evaluate. Montreal will not suffer because they got Tanguay. I’d wager that Tanguay is very happy, and excited about playing in La Belle Province. Habs fans are, by and large, probably pleased at his acquisition. Even if Tanguay does well, which I suspect he will, Habs fans will want Gainey to pick up that 2nd round pick they gave up to get him … somewhere along the way. And, Bob Gainey certainly knows how to pick up a draft pick or two before next Summer.

By Smoothie

June 24, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this

Yes - to Recchi at $ 1 mill for 1 yr

Yes - to Recchi getting the ‘A’ again

No - to Wellwood coming here…we don’t need another Todd White (5’10” 180 lb vijayjay)

No - to Kubina…he’s big and slow and costs way too much money

Yes - to making Kovy captain NOW as he is the face of the franchise as well as the emotional heart and soul of this team…to not do this is akin to admitting that you don’t trust him and he will walk in 2 yrs

Yes - to getting Kari inked ASAP before July 1 or at least making a qualifying tender before tomorrow’s tender deadline for RFA’s (see Mike Knobler’s blog from late last week)

No - to my season tkt rep until the ASG ponies up some cash for legit free-agents like Campbell, Orpik, Roszival or Ryder

By Brendan

June 24, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this

Hossa sweepstakes update: I think it’s four (4) in favor of the NTC granted to Hossa, and one (Alan) opposed. But it’s not too late to vote on it.

Okay, let’s tally up the destinations. In no particular order …

NY Rangers: PJ and Sara, and it’s not too late for others to jump on the Broadway Blueshirts for Hossa’s next team.

Pittsburgh: Smoothie, ThrasherNY, Ranallo, and Polskidawg.

Detroit: Former Islanders Fan (FIF), Brendan, Bob, and NascarDave.

L.A. Kings: J(Z).

Toronto Maple Leafs: EROCK.

Montreal: Rawhide and Sharon.

Boston Bruins: Alan and GaVaHokie.

Ottawa Senators: Tim.

Atlanta Thrashers: R.Stroz

Colorado Avalanche: HookyBob.

I hope I didn’t miss anyone. There’s still plenty of time before July 1st, at Noon, to get that vote in. At 12:01 PM, on July 1st, it’s officially “too late.” Don’t forget to cast your vote for Hossa receiving a “No Trade Clause (NTC)” or not, for his next contract.

By Brendan

June 24, 2008 5:55 PM | Link to this

Ranallo, do you feel there isn’t any one “right or wrong” decision to be made about the Captaincy?

By JB

June 24, 2008 6:02 PM | Link to this

The Boston Bruins have re-signed defenseman Mark Stuart to a two year, 2.6 million dollar contract. This leaves Boston with about 6.4 million dollars left under the cap and they have yet to re-sign defenseman Dennis Wideman. I don’t see Hossa or Campbell going to the B’s unless they move salary.

By ranallo10

June 24, 2008 6:17 PM | Link to this

Brendan — Right and wrong is all relative, isn’t it? How does an uninvolved person judge right or wrong on a hockey situation?

In this instance I believe that “right or wrong” depends on the beliefs of each individual, and their hopes or agenda as a fan of this franchise. In other words, what is right to some people is intrinsically wrong to others, and therefore there can not be a clear cut undisputed “right or wrong”.

To be honest, this is true with almost every matter regarding this team. There are too many differing points of view on every situation, and it’s hard to make every point of view agree on one decision.

So just like most things around here, I don’t believe there is one write or wrong decision that can be made about the Captaincy. This is why I’m interested to see where people stand on this topic.

By Alan

June 24, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this

Sundin and NYR have those “eyes across the bar” for each other. I can’t see them signing Hossa, either.

Strangely enough, I could possibly see him jumping in on the Leafs in their rebuild.

By Tim

June 24, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this

Brenden I might be wrong but I think the cap will be carry over next season only if the salary + bonus will bring the club over the cap. Then again I might be wrong.

About Hossa, I would say that at 7 millions a years minimum, he won’t get the NTC requested, especially if it is a 4 year plus contract. We’re year 4 into the cap era and I think GM are smart enough to know that such clause in a contract can only bind the team on long term (see Sundin) and are to be giving to exceptional player only. One can argue that Hossa is an exceptional player but he already hit his prime year and will only decline from now. He will still be a force in the league however.

LAC Like I said, I can see your POV about how this organization is run and it is run badly (with some wind of optimism this season). For that I share your point of view. Year ten with no playoff win, any other organization would have changed their GM already. I agree with that point. However what i find annoying is that we’ve been serve the same post for the past few years with just word reconstruction. It doe not contribute to a interesting debate. I can predict that from here until the puck drop for the next season, Sage of Blueland will come back with his traditional 10 years into a 5 years plan. I can also predict that from today until the season debut, you or Dave will bring back that Coburn trade. My point it’s what is done is done. No point dwelling into the subject unless if by bringing back the subject, one can contribute to an interesting debate which is what forums and blog for. And I have to admit that lately you bringing new idea even though you stay firm on your stand against DW. That help promote conversation and I have no problem with it. But mentioning the coburn trade or the 10 years in a 5 years plan for a thousand time, we not getting anywhere and that

Back to Brendan Well I mention J-Bo because out of the RFA list, he is the one I would like to have the most and I think any compensation we need to sacrifice to get him is worthwhile (maybe not the 4 X 1st pick however) and I do believe that you agreed with me there. Solid young balanced d-man with NHL experice worth the price right? Now if there is one selling point that Atlanta have is the SE style since he played against us 8 time a years and pretty much familiar with most people on this team. But yes, J-Bo still need to sign a offer sheet which I doubt would happen, unless if DW surprised me.

And for the people who are going to boycott the Thrashers Games god I wish I live in Atlanta and able to support my favorite team. Over here in BC, when people asked me which is my favorite team and when i reply Thrashers, I am getting laught at. But I stand behind my team no matter what. So, I can just say that you guys don’t know what you got until it’s gone. And I know what I am talking about. When I used to live in Montreal, my favorites pro teams were the Quebec Nordiques and the Montreal Expos and we all know what happened to them right?

Brendan People are in love with Bob Gainey since they pick Tanguay up. Quebecers are really happy when you get homegrown talent and get upset when they don’t. Some people feel that DW could have made a move for Tanguay, Jokinen or Callamari. Now I asked those people this question: “Knowing that those players have only 1 years left in their contract (which will expired at the end of next season). About Tanguay, he always expressed his wishes to play for the Montreal Canadians and we all knew that he wasnt happy in Calgary and that help ease the transaction. So chance are he is going to extends his contract status with the Montreal Canadians. I dont think that if Thrashers get his right, he would be happy here neither.For Jokinen, Phoenix actually sacrifice their defence to get the player. Now the GM can still rebuild the D with UFA but it will be more risky and correct me if I am wrong, we dont have 2 equivalent D-men to send to Florida not to mention that Florida won’t made the trade with us anyway. Cammalleri would be the one I can see that could have happen however I dont think Calgary would like to get our 29th pick and additional pick. The 17th surely hold more power in this season draft with still have lot of talent available at that position and serve as incentive to get Anaheim 12th round pick. LA use Cammalleri trade to trade up in the Draft, not down. And no, I wouldnt give up the 3rd overall for Cammalleri.

Now this is the first time I try to be Brendenesque and I have to admit that I failed miserably since my grammar is too poor haha! I promise I’ll try to improve next time though heh

By volgrad1985

June 24, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

My vote is that Hossa will remain at Pittsburgh without a NTC.

On the subject of captaincy, if it were my decision, I think Kovy has earned it. As for the alternates, Perrin made a very strong case for himself last season as one of the leaders of this team (if you attended any practices, you’d know what I mean). Kozlov and Havelid will likely keep their “A” by default. And I would reward the final alternate to Army because of his attitude and positive outgoing presence on the team since his arrival. Correct me if I’m wrong, but if Kovy were to have the “C”, would he be the first Russian in NHL history to do so?

By LAC

June 24, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this

Thanks Brenden, glad you THE EXPERT, cleared me up on that contract point.

Hossa, I say Tampa, for some funny reason I think those new owners there will “Make a Hossa splash” and really turn themselves around.

As for tim… Let me say I for one have NEVER mentioned the Colburn trade, I understand why it was done, When it was done. The fact is zit is in NO way a player the Thrashers should have any interest in retaining and he should be bought out, but I NEVER one time on this blog critized that trade, don waddell shows us every day why he should be replaced, How long would HE last in Canada ???

By Tony C.

June 24, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this

I think they made Bure a Captain when he was out in Vancouver.

By five_hole

June 24, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this

Brendan I said it would be a western conference team, and guessed Aneheim.

Ranallo for purposes of full disclosure, I should mention that I am also five_hole at Hockeybuzz too. One of their problems seems to be that they can’t keep a regular Thrasher’s blogger there. It used to be Brittany (nice but not very hockey smart), then it was Stan (decent but inconsistent blogger). Who knows whom it will be next year. Some of the others are pretty good. I like the guy that runs the Vancouver blog.

A hit rate of 2%, even if most of that comes from Toronto, is probably a pretty decent rate for a Hockey site, considering the overall popularity of the sport.

It’s not that he likes privacy (although I have seen a picture of him) and it’s not that he doesn’t disclose sources; news reporters don’t disclose their sources, either (except under subpeona, but I really don’t want to go there). It’s that his rumors blow with the wind. This player will go here (e3) the next day, the player will go there (e4). There’s no consistency, which to me says he really doesn’t know, but runs his mouth anyway. There are too many people like that in the world as it is.

By JB

June 24, 2008 8:47 PM | Link to this

Leafs just bought out Darcy Tucker, considering now we wouldn’t have to give up anything for him do you make a move?

http://tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=241569&lid=headline&lpos=topStory_nhl

By Tony C.

June 24, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this

I think they made Mogilny a captain when he was with the Sabres (back before they became the Electric Banana Slugs).

By Tony C.

June 24, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this

I think they made Mogilny a captain when he was with the Sabres (back before they became the Electric Banana Slugs).

By erock

June 24, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this

HOSSA to TORONTO with a NTC….NO to KOVY as captain…One less thing he will have to worry about…

By R. Skeen

June 24, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this

i think Hossa Calgary without NTC i doubt he will go to Detroit cause he will not want to be on the second line

By NASCAR Dave

June 24, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this

Well, I usually try not to get my hopes up too much this time of the year with the Thrashers… I’ve been let down too many times…

BRENDAN, I’ll say HOSSA to DET, 3-4 Years, with NTC…

Free Agents: Of course everybody would love CAMPBELL, myself included.

We also Need JOHN MICHAEL LILES… We need 2 FA D-Men.

IMAGINE:

CAMPBELL-LILES
HAVELID-ENSTROM
VALABIK(or KULDA-BOGOSIAN

We would be set. I really wish OUR team would do that. Do I see it happening??? No.

We ALSO need a #1 CENTER!

I don’t understand why we do not WAIVE or BUYOUT BRAD LARSEN??? And ZHITNIK.?. Obviously KLEE to have the D-PAIRS above… Why NOT??? It is OK to ADMIT you made a mistake… you know???

WHERE do we fit in LAVALLEE/STUART/STERLING/HOLZAPEL/MACHACEK, you KNOW??? I don’t know about you guys, but I’m ready to see these kids get a “REAL” shot to play!!!

LET the Kids Play! We don’t need RECCHI, either… At any cost…

By JB

June 24, 2008 11:48 PM | Link to this

Dave, I’m not sure if we actually need another UFA defenseman. We drafted Bogosian at #3 and from all reports I’ve read/heard he is ready to take a roster spot out of camp.

So this is my proposal: Campbell as we all know is an offensive defenseman; however some seem to think his defense is suspect. Well pair him with the second coming who has already advertised himself as a defense first style game. You help me I’ll help you type situation; Campbell helps Bogosian with his transition to the NHL game(ala Havelid with Toby last year) and most assuredly provides tips about the offensive game from a defensive point of view and vice versa. Having a set of top two pairings like that could be dangerous.

By Tony C.

June 25, 2008 2:12 AM | Link to this

This from an article/interview with Stoll:

*”That’s my mindset, that’s what I’m focusing on and working towards right now, preparing to have a great season,” said Stoll, who’s grown a little tired of hearing he’s washed up at 26.

“People can always say what they want and think what they want. That’s life, that’s the world. I know how I think and how I prepare and how I think I can play. And it’s definitely different than last year.”*

Oh, I wonder if that guy is motivated? What do you think Lowe is asking for?? Stoll’s had some sucky seasons since their Cup run a couple of years ago.

By NASCAR Dave

June 25, 2008 2:38 AM | Link to this

Yeah, JB… The reBUILD definitely should start with the Blueline… Honestly, I call it the BUILD, because we never really have had a “solid” Blueline.

So with your scenario, I’d say:

HAVELID-ENSTROM
CAMPBELL-BOGOSIAN
VALABIK-EXELBY/KULDA

Notice how I STILL left out out ZHIT, KLEE, and the UFA’s JB? Those moves STILL Need to made also…

In my proposal, I forgot to mention that EXELBY will have been Moved for Assets… Ideally in my mind it would be used towards EDM to Grab STOLL… STOLL is a player that I think you can Plug In at Center on KOVY’s line…

I still want to target LILES also (I feel we need 2 D-Men)… My third choice would be MONTADOR (I agree with BRENDAN, He is CHEAP for his VALUE)…

I would be happy with any 2 of the 3 D-Men above, and I prefer we make a run at STOLL for that #1 Center…

IMO, the rest of our roster is pretty filled out… I disagree with some of the people here that feel we need more Wingers.

We are fine on Wingers… It’s time for some WOLVES to bring their game to the ATL…

NUFF SAID.

By volgrad1985

June 25, 2008 3:32 AM | Link to this

NascarDave….While I have been pretty critical of your repetitious rants recently, I will also be man enough to compliment you on a very lucid, well thought out, and original post at 2:38am. It was a pleasure to read an opinion stated the way you did, and I hope you keep that up and give the other stuff a rest. Thanks!

By LAC

June 25, 2008 4:45 AM | Link to this

Remember this factor….

Kulda & Bogosian were defense partners in Junior this past season… I found that to be interesting.

Campbell & Liles would be nice, But we still need a top line center and much more second line scoring to compete this coming season.

We still need buyouts on zit-klee-larsen at the very least, sure it’s not fun to do, but other teams are doing it to improve and it is a step in the right direction… So to speak…

By kracker

June 25, 2008 9:56 AM | Link to this

Brendan Hossa > Habs. I chose them maybe 2 days ago, so add me to the list, please.

By Brendan

June 25, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this

So, I’ve now got R. Skeen with Hossa to Calgary, without an NTC. I’ve got Vograd going with Hossa to the Penguins, without an NTC. I’ve got Kracker sending Hossa to Montreal, no decision on NTC or not, and Five_Hole with Hossa headed to Anaheim, no decision on NTC.

And I’ve updated NascarDAve to Detroit with the NTC in effect.

Tim, in your earlier post, you indicated you did think Hossa would get the NTC. In your more recent post, you seem to have changed your mind. Can I put you down for no NTC for Hossa?, and still going to Ottawa?

By Tim

June 25, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this

Brendan: Yeah no NTC to Ottawa :D He will requested it but not going to get it.

On a side note, Lecavallier just sign for 9 years with Tampa for about 8.55 mil a season with NTC. Now imagine if Lecavallier start to lose his touch 4 seasons from now and do not contribute as much as now, TB will be stuck with his contract. 8.55 mil a season is a lot in a cap era and even if the team bought him out, they will still e stuck with a large penality on their cap. I don

By Brendan

June 25, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this

That’s a big contract, Tim. But, really, I think they had to do it. This is the trending direction that several teams are opting for.

NYI: 15 years for Ric DiPietro Philly: 12 years for Mike Richards Washington: 13 years for Alex Ovechkin. Atlanta: ??? years for Ilya Kovalchuk?

Minnesota locked up a D-man, N. Schultz, on a 6-year deal, just because they felt they needed to protect themselves for the future.