Ice Man

By The Other J.B.

June 29, 2008 8:04 AM | Link to this

First.

I KNEW IT!!! I can’t remember on which or whose blog I posted the comment last week, but I predicted that since DW said they had not discussed it and Alexei was in the Thrashers plans for the next season, Zhithead was gone for sure. Changing my name from J.B. to Nostradamus…

…actually in hindsight it wasn’t too hard to figure out so scratch the name change.

By kracker

June 29, 2008 8:30 AM | Link to this

I originally thought that DW would not make this move, assuming it was not ‘suggested’ by the owners. My thinking was that cutting Zhitnik would be too much of an admission of how badly the Zhitnik/Coburn trade was for the team and that DW would bank on better play this season.

However, it may have beeen just the opposite. Having Zhitnik remain on the team and underperform as he did last year, perhaps eating up cap space watching from the press box, would only keep the ugliness front and center for the entire year. If Zhitnik has not been following the off season training program, there was little liklehood of him rebounding to a level necessary to help the team excel.

Here at the very end of this sorry saga, Waddell gets a reluctant thumbs-up for facing facts and doing the right thing for the team. We will probably never know if he had to convince the owners to eat the contract or if it was his call all the time.

On to Tuesday at 3:00PM!

By kracker

June 29, 2008 8:35 AM | Link to this

Oh, and a good Thrashers morning to you, Rawhide.

By ben

June 29, 2008 8:50 AM | Link to this

I hope this means the D gets an upgrade. The T-Birds never should have gotten rid of Sutton, never should have made the KT trade, and signed Savard. Hope Donnie learned.

Brendan posted something a few blogs back about his thoughts on the state of the NHL in a few years. His comment was that 19 teams wouldn’t make the floor at the rate of salary cap growth. Now I don’t claim to know the ins and outs of team-wide finances in the league, but I will hazzard a guess that before it got to that there would be steps that the league would take in order to reign in spending. My perrsonal feeling is that the cap goes down next year due to the slumping economy. This would cause some teams to be on a more competitive footing. Also I really doubt the NHL will be nuts about the prospect of non Montreal, Toronto Canadian hockey teams to get into the finals year after year. Basically, this league has for better or worse bet the farm on teams in non traditional hockey markets working out in the long run.

By five_hole

June 29, 2008 9:07 AM | Link to this

Ben There are now three things in life that are guaranteed; death, taxes and the salary cap going up. Good economy, bad economy, it doesn’t matter.

I see 2 spots open on defense; we have the money to get the best offensive d-man available, and then go after a tier-2 more defensive stay at home d-man.

I also see us with 2 open spots on RW. And that after a couple of the kids like LaVallee, Little and Sterling will make the club. This will be a significantly different club than took the ice last year.

By kracker

June 29, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this

I read today that the FA periosd starts at Noon on Tuesday, not at 3:00PM like I wrote above. Great! We don’t have to wait most of the day for things to break.

By five_hole

June 29, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this

At this point, rumors are just that, rumors. However, I have read in multiple places that Campbell wants to sign somewhere close to Southern Ontario, which probably takes us out of the running. However, I did just find this:

Somehow, they have us in the running for Ryan Malone?!? Personally, I’d love it if we could sign him, but this is the 1st time I’ve seen this.

By Alan

June 29, 2008 10:39 AM | Link to this

five_hole - Campbell said he would “entertain all offers.” Where he ends up could be a shocker to us all. Unless Ottawa can convince him to take a discount, or Toronto manages to woo him over, I don’t see him being near S. Ontario. Buffalo? They’re looking for a big and hard-hitting defender.

By Sara

June 29, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this

My take on the original Zhitnik tale was a feeling that ownership was balking at the thought of paying 2/3 of his salary to make him go away. Given what penny pinchers they are, it makes sense. Just my opinion. However, I had wondered that since one of the owners basically promised the fans a new Tier I d-man, I’m not sure where they intended to put him with us having 5 already under contract and a new drafted d-man, 2 from Chicago possibly ready for promotion, and another in Russia who might finally show up on this side of the Atlantic. Considering the last four mentioned + an FA are better (at least in theory) than at least 3 of our guys currently under contract, potentially a few somebodies have to be odd-men out.

Ben I have to respectfully disagree. Sutton should have been let go. We could have put a 6’5” pylon on the ice and gotten the same amount of defense out of it. Plus Sutton took one too many to the head and thought he should be getting bank on his new contract. However, where that went wrong was DW not replacing Andy with something much better.

Also, I still think the KT trade was a good one. Teams vying for the playoffs do rent-a-players all the time. We didn’t give up that much to get him and he really helped this club out. The fact it turned out so badly was not on KT but more on inexperience all around and bad coaching. I would submit that without the KT trade, the Thrashers wouldn’t have even made it in to the playoffs.

As for Savard - Savvy walked away from ATL on his own after a very bad end to his marriage (his own stupid fault) and his ex-wife taking the kids with her back to Canada. Savvy went looking for a team closer to them. I will say Don made a MAJOR mistake by not attempting to re-sign Savard to a contract extension during that last year (his old stance of not negotiating during the season) but he obviously learned that lesson since he wasted no time last off-season trying to get the ball rolling on re-signing Hossa. It didn’t work obviously, but at least he didn’t wait until July 1.

BTW my understanding from someone inside the organization was that Don and Savvy/Savvy’s agent had agreed to discuss any offers Savvy got on the open market and allow ATL the option of matching an offer. However, Savvy just signed with Boston without giving Don that opportunity. Call that hearsay and value it how you want, but I thought I’d put that out there.

By five_hole

June 29, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this

Alan - I’m just writing what I’ve been reading. Personally, he’s my #1 FA target. He immediately upgrades our transition game and gives us a point man on the PP.

I would also like to see Valabik make the team for 1 purpose; our PK. I’d station him in front of our net with a 10 ft radius that he would control. I’d love to see a Sundin or LeCavalier try and sit in front of Kari with Big Bad Boris there.

By Brendan

June 29, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this

The Flyers had to make a choice between Carter and Umberger for next season. With Umberger traded to Columbus, I would have been surprised that Philly didn’t re-sign Carter.

If the salary cap actually decreases, or stabilized right where it is, I’m sure GM’s around the league would take note of it and make some adjustments. Before the lockout occurred, some teams had 4, 5, maybe even 6 Tier I players on them. Some team payrolls were in excess of $70 million. One team reached $88 million.

When the cap came into existence, we were told the following. “Gone are the days of the $10 million contracts.” “The cap will stabilize the financial losses for our clubs.” And, “The cap will create parity in the league, as there will be equality among the teams, in terms of what they can spend. Each team will operate from within the same economic framework. All teams can spend up to $39 million (but not more than that).”

Yeah, that was 2005. There are lots of players making $10 million in salary, though their “cap hit” is smaller. The highest cap hit player is Ovechkin, I think, at $9.5 million. The idea behind the cap, aside from stabilizing millions of dollars in losses, was to prevent any one team from having more than three TIER ONE players on them, making $9 million per season. The idea was that … some of these players would have to take their salaries to other markets, making the San Joses and Nashvilles of the league a bit more competitive. Paul Kariya’s deal to Nashville was trumpeted as the “poster child” contract of the new era.

The 2006 Stanley Cup Finalists were Carolina and Edmonton, two of the three smallest markets in the NHL. The cap was $39 million. Since then, the floor of the cap has risen to $40.7 million. And neither the Hurricanes, nor the Oilers, have so much as returned to the 16-team playoff field since 2006.

And if the Red Wings land Hossa, as the top unrestricted free of this Summer’s field, they’re likely to repeat as Stanley Cup Champions again next season. That’s great for Detroit! But it’s not so great for Atlanta, the team who used to hold Hossa’s contract.

By JB

June 29, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this

Buh Bye Zhitty, Zhitty Bang Bang; hello Brian “Soupy” Campbell?

Well according to Scott Burnisde over at ESPN the Thrash and Rangers are the two teams in the Campbell hunt and Toronto would be in it IF they could move McCabe and his insane salary.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/columns/story?columnist=burnside_scott&id=3462917

By five_hole

June 29, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this

For those like me, looking for independent confirmation of Zhitnik being waived, I found it here

For some reason, when it’s reported that Waddell makes a move that makes that much sense, I look for second sources to corroborate the story.

By JB

June 29, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this

I was just thinking, was the Zhitnik buyout a move to free up an extra 1.75 mil this season in case we got into a bidding war with some like New York for Campbell?

Just a thought.

By Andrew

June 29, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this

There is no reason to believe anything Waddell says anymore, just like it was with Rich McKay of the Falcons. They are playing a game when they release public statements.

By polskidawg

June 29, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this

I was wrong. I didn’t think DW would admit defeat in the Zhit deal. Plus, I can’t beleive that the owners will take the hit. I’m very glad I was wrong.

Campbell? I still believe he’ll be on the Rang-ahs this season.

I wouldn’t be surprised if McCabe is in a different blue this season.

How about McCabe (he’d love Anderson’s style) and, say Orpik?

By Midfield

June 29, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this

It very well may be a necessary move, but, please, stop insulting the man already. If you think that he was the sole reason Thrashers tanked last season, think again. Of course, if you have an urge to appear as clasless mob ready to scapegoat an easy pray, go ahead. Butcher his last name for every day until October, when it will be somebody else’s turn.

By kracker

June 29, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this

Eklund says the Bolts have signed Malone and Roberts.

By LAC

June 29, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

What really gets me is waddell lying in public to ALL NHL fans across the world.

The zit move was THE RIGHT ONE, but like the hiring of Anderson, and now this… How the HELL can this IDIOT show his face to anyone, he is a DAMN LIAR.

Now if Larsen.klee/white were added to the list we could have some hope.

As for UFA’s not looking for much of a splash here, maybe one lower teir one but that will likely be about it I am SAD to say.

By kracker

June 29, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this

TSN: Bertuzzi clears waivers.

By Rawhide

June 29, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this

Midfield - I don’t know if your comment was direct my way or not….but I really did try to not pile on here, even pointed out as you did that last year’s defensive problems were not 100% Zhit’s fault.

Regardless, your points are well taken and appreciated.

Sara and Kracker did make some very nice remarls about Zhitnik yesterday afternoon on the previous blog…and I thought they were well put!

I’ll even give DW some props here for this move. It’s not easy to do something like this knowing it gives the impression that it’s an admission of a mistake made a year and a half ago. That’s tough to do for anyone.

So…well done Don.

Now, moving ahead…I firmly believe the team will try…TRY…to get someone like Campbell signed here. Whether or not he can be swayed or not remains the big question. But given the decisions the organ-I-zation has made over the past couple of weeks, I do think they are committed to doing what they have to in order to build a solid squad and get fans to buy tickets.

I guess I’ve moved from cautiously optimistic to “hopefully” optimistic.

By five_hole

June 29, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this

Rawhide - Some people are the “glass is half empty” kind. Some people are the “glass is half full” kind. Me, I’m the “glass has a crack and is leaking” kind of guy. I’ll believe that “we’re moving in the right direction” when I can start to see the road signs.

We have the cap room to sign at least 1 tier 1 free agent. I want to see a difference maker; a game changer, before I can start to have faith. If the Tampa Mullets, er, Lightning, did sign Malone, they just became a better team. Based on the team we have now, could we compete? NO. What about Washington? What about Carolina? We need (at least 1, possibly 2) game changers.

By Alan

June 29, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this

kracker - Even a stopped clock is right twice a day.

By John 43

June 29, 2008 5:36 PM | Link to this

I still would like to know who will move the puck up ice and score goals other than Kovy this team needs a top center and top right winger just to start two players that can score 30 plus per year. DW is not going to spend the money if he could close the deal and no one wants to play here but has beens.

By Disgusted Fan

June 29, 2008 5:45 PM | Link to this

Ownership needs to put Waddell on waivers as well, immediately. Don the clown needs to be gone. Get a up and coming GM in here that has a clue, although that calls for ownership with a clue, which this organi-zation does not have either.

By Still a Disgusted Fan

June 29, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this

Just looked over at hockeybuzz.com for Eklund’s post on free agent rumors, and it only shows a few has-beens interested in Atlanta. Waddell sits on his sorry *ss and fiddles while Rome (Thrasherland) burns. List is reproduced below, copyright Hockeybuzz.com, 2008:

THE HOCKEYBUZZ CENTRAL UFA RANKINGS WITH 2 DAYS TO GO 1. Sundin: MON, NYR, DET 2. Hossa: BOS, SJ, MON, OTT, VAN 3. Campbell: NYR, PIT, SJ, BUFF 4. Jagr: NYR 5. Redden: NYR, BOS, SJ, EDM 6. Vrbata: CBJ, PIT, NJ, OTT, TOR 7. Straka: NYR, PIT, CHI 8. Demitra: VAN, SJ, NASH 9. Dupuis: BUF, CHI, PHX 10. Roszival: NJ, NYR, NYI, EDM, TAM 11. Huselius: CBJ, MON, NYI, WAS 12. Rolston: MIN, BUF, TOR 13. Streit: SJ, BOS, NYR, MON 15. Brunette: MIN, CHI, CAL 16. Liles: BUF, PHI, NYR, DAL 17. Huet: WAS, OTT, CHI 18. Stuart: LA 19. Rob Blake: LA, COL 20. Jeff Finger: PHL, COL, CBJ 21. Avery: NYI, MON, TOR, VAN, SJ 22. Nagy:EDM, NAS, WASH, CAR 23. Stillman: OTT, CAR, 24. Ryder: DET, PIT, BOS, NJ, VAN 25. Jason Williams: TOR, NASH, TB, BUF 26. Hainsey: PHL, SJ, STL 27. Cooke: CAR, NJ 28. Theodore: DET, TAM 29. Brylin: NJ, ATL, DAL 30. Jason Smith: PHL, NJ, EDM 31. Fedorov: WAS 32. Morrison: CBJ, BUF 33. Weight: STL, FLA 34. Peca: BUF, MON 35. Satan: NJ, NYR 36. Commodore: OTT, CAR, ATL 37. Naslund: VAN, PIT

By Sage of Bluesland

June 29, 2008 6:07 PM | Link to this

Hey-ho, Let’s Go!

Let’s get this next ten-year “Five-Year-Plan” started right!!!

Thank goodness for Donny Waddell—I just simply can’t imagine where we’d be ‘without’ him?

(Can you?)

By Tony C.

June 29, 2008 7:05 PM | Link to this

So according to that link above, Malone, who is a 1.5 pt-per-2 games player just got signed to the tune of $5.6M (it’s quick math, not exact). What does that tell you about the market?

Oh and for the record, I wouldn’t mind seeing Commodore here

By kracker

June 29, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this

The new TB owners want to make a splash - no matter how much it costs. Woohoo - love that salary cap! That’s the new market after a big cap increase. Not that we can talk much, at least some of us. I’ve read quite a few opinions that the Thrash should offer Campball $8.5M per…that’s like 5 yrs for $42.5M. Insane.

By kracker

June 29, 2008 7:24 PM | Link to this

And what’s Coburn going to be worth when he hits RFA/FA?

By Sam

June 29, 2008 7:36 PM | Link to this

So much for polls. Look at the NHL.com poll about Bogosian being the 3rd most likey D/man to make an NHL roster. He may not be a HUGE impact player right away but I believe he is a lock to be on the roster, especially paired with a veteran. I can see Doughty being first since the Kings were awful, but Schenn second?? Sorry, no way. I guess the Toronto fans are a bit blind in their rationale but that’s Toronto for ya. According to their fans they have been denied the playoffs every year by the Southeast division teams. It doesn’t matter that the Southeast teams have won several Cups and reached the finals a few times since 2000, they still feel they were better. Yeah, right.

By Sam

June 29, 2008 7:55 PM | Link to this

Looks like Malone will be in the $4+ million a year territory. He was really good for the Pens last year and a super pickup by Tampa Bay. Just 27 YOA and coming into his own. He easily could have been here for that kind of money. Sigh….

By ranallo10

June 29, 2008 8:04 PM | Link to this

Does anybody know if Zach Bogosian is the son of/related to actor Eric Bogosian?

I know they’re both of Armenian decent, so I’m just assuming they could be related. Zach’s from NY, Eric’s from MA…

By volgrad1985

June 29, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this

Sam Correction-Malone will be 29 years old (not 27) half way through next season, meaning he will be 36 at the end of the contract instead of 34. That could be a big deal to a large winger that uses his body like Malone does.

By Vince

June 29, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this

Good Point John 43. Who do these clowns think is gonna step up in Hossas spot as 2nd leading scorer? Slava Koslov? Highly unlikely.,

By MB

June 29, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this

I agree, John 43.

Who do you have in mind?

It’s kind of hard to find true top line centers or right wings available this FA period.

By JB

June 29, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this

Three things have made the news tonight in the NHL.

Adam Foote was re-signed by the Colorado Avalanche to a two year, six million dollar contract.

John-Michael Liles has signed a 4 year, 16 million dollar deal to remain with the Avalanche.

http://tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=242041&lid=headline&lpos=topStory_nhl

The Lightning have officially re-signed Ryan Malone and Gary Roberts.

Malone has a seven year, 31.5 million dollar contract it is currently not known the full status of Roberts contract.

http://tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=242037&lid=headline&lpos=topStory_nhl

All four players were eligible for UFA status on Tuesday.

By JB

June 29, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this

SON OF A ^$&&^&$&&%

Tampa just acquired the exclusive negotiating rights to Brian Rolston.

http://ww3.startribune.com/blogs/wildblog/

They never stop.

By R. Stroz

June 29, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this

So who’s left worth having?

Hossa, Campbell, Orpik, Streit

Brendan - I’m looking less intoxicated by the hour.

By ranallo10

June 29, 2008 11:24 PM | Link to this

The Oilers traded Jared Stoll and Matt Greene to LA for Lubomir Visnovsky

By Thrasher_Ed

June 29, 2008 11:50 PM | Link to this

Wow, Tampa’s new owners are serious, Huh? Maybe the ASG had better get off their collective arses and tell Donnie to get it in gear! The free agent pool is fast shrinking boys and girls and it ain’t even Monday yet!
Campbell,Streit,Orpik, Ryder are out there let’s get’um signed.

By A really Disgusted Fan

June 29, 2008 11:55 PM | Link to this

So what in the h*ll is Waddell doing? “Zhitnik is a part of future, no wait we just waived him, I think, did we?”

By Chris

June 30, 2008 12:07 AM | Link to this

We should trade Klee for a 2009 Pick.

Should have waived Larson. He should also now be traded for a pick (09 .

Or trade them both for a young winger or D man. Look, they are worthless here. Toddy White is worthless too, but he has more value on the trade market. Move them///

By Brendan

June 30, 2008 12:21 AM | Link to this

R.Stroz, if Atlanta landed Hossa, Campbell, Orpik, and Streit, I should think this ownership isn’t a “caretaker” ownership at all.

That’s crankin’ open the wallet. Big-time.

But knowing them, they’d retain these players just long enough to get us all to buy season tickets, then trade them all away for 1st round draft picks, before Opening Night. The money’s non-refundable, right? Forget I said anything. If this post reaches their eyes, it’ll give them some bright ideas!

By Empty Seats Everywhere !

June 30, 2008 1:23 AM | Link to this

But Brendan they have to spend big money now. How else are you gonna sell tickets? The League is essentially helping the Atlanta fans by FORCING the Owners to spend more money. This is a definite plus to the fans, in my opinion. But, will they (Owners) spend TO the cap, or go cheap again, like they usually do?

This is the 6 million dollar question.

By reptilian

June 30, 2008 1:56 AM | Link to this

I don’t think it matters how much they spend. With Don W. spending the money you already know its spent unwisely. What does that say?

By Rocco D.

June 30, 2008 2:57 AM | Link to this

Hey Bill* - It’s Monday today, are they going to buy out Zhetnek? It must be done by today.., They’ve got buy out Zhetnek, Bill, right?!

By Sam

June 30, 2008 2:57 AM | Link to this

OK, Malone is 28 so why quibble over one year? I know it pains all of us but there is no way to make a positive spin out of this by saying he will be too old at 36 in 7 years. His $4+ million dollar salary is not horribly high and getting Roberts for $1.2 million (incentives up to $2 million not likely) is a drop in the bucket for a leader. Now someone posted that Rolston has been acquired by the Bolts. Another 30 goal scorer for them?? He hasn’t signed yet but what the heck are the Thrashers waiting for?? It’s not good to be so frustrated when the season hasn’t even started yet. It hurts to see a division rival get so much. It’s not like Tampa Bay is Detroit or New York. Simple aggressiveness is all it is taking and they are NOT overpaying by any stretch. Yeah, the price tags aren’t cheap but look at what they are getting for the $7+ million they cleared with Richards, who by the way was HORRIBLE with them last year with less than 10 even strength goals if I remember right and a terrible +/-. Didn’t the Thrashers just clear Hossa’s salary? Isn’t it almost the same thing? Atlanta fans deserve so much better than what is transpiring.

By Tim

June 30, 2008 3:21 AM | Link to this

Sam So you rather us overpaying a player (Malone, who never have a point per season yet) and old leg (robert and rolston) rather then saving money to go after teams needs (campbell, hossa)?

TB have 24 millions worth of salary tied into 4 players. And they still have the rest of the team to sign pretty much. Overspending is how you get your hands tied.

By R. Stroz

June 30, 2008 4:01 AM | Link to this

I’m curious, what happens if the Thrashers are left out in the cold?

If Campbell, Hossa, Redden, Orpik, Steit,… all worthwhile UFAs sign with other teams, the Thrashers have no way to meet the new salary floor.

Do the Thrashers get fined?

Do the Thrashers owners realize no one wants to play under a Waddell regime?

What is the fallout?

By Alan

June 30, 2008 5:21 AM | Link to this

Stroz That’s an excellent question. I guess it’s something we’ll find an answer to… if it comes down to that.

By BigAl

June 30, 2008 8:38 AM | Link to this

Ranallo Bogosian’s father isn’t the actor. His dad was with him at the draft and I think he was a “football” or “lacrosse” star at Syracuse in his days. A BIG dude!

Sara One clarification on SAVY. He and his agent NEVER gave DW a chance to match or beat his Bruins deal. They never promised him a chance either………His offer to Savy was much lower than Bruins……..

By Hip Czech

June 30, 2008 8:44 AM | Link to this

Ranallo, Bogosian’s dad is Ike Bogosian…he played football at Syracuse back in the early-mid 80’s (back when SU actually had a football team, the ‘89 Peach Bowl still warms my heart!).

Ok, scratch Stoll off the trade list. We lose out on Cammalleri, now Stoll. I wonder if DW even talked to LA? We could have used either Cammalleri or Visnovsky here.

I am not too worried about the Tampa moves - Malone is overrated, he played on lines with Crosby or Malkin, he should have been able to put up better numbers. Rolston is 35 or 36, probably not worth the money.

Wade Redden scares me for some reason.

I like what Edmonton and Phoenix are up to so far this offseason.

By The Other J.B.

June 30, 2008 8:47 AM | Link to this

Check out this quote from the Ottawa Sun, y’all…

A league source said Atlanta GM Don Waddell is so determined to bring Campbell into the fold that the Thrashers might be willing to table a five-year, $42-million US deal (that’s $8.4 million a season).

Here’s the link

That’s alot of cash, but I think it’d be worth it.

By GaVaHokie

June 30, 2008 8:49 AM | Link to this

Well, if Zhitnik is on waivers, than Waddell must have something in place. Either an early “under the table” agreement from a UFA, or a trade that won’t be made until tomorrow… good stuff!!

If we land Commodore and Orpik, I’d be just as happy than if we got Campbell alone.

Not sure if everyone read this article from PuckDaddy It looks like Anderson wants the same as what we want… a solid defenseman and another Center.

By The Other J.B.

June 30, 2008 8:49 AM | Link to this

Check out this quote from the Ottawa Sun, y’all…

A league source said Atlanta GM Don Waddell is so determined to bring Campbell into the fold that the Thrashers might be willing to table a five-year, $42-million US deal (that’s $8.4 million a season).

Here’s the link

That’s alot of cash, but I think it’d be worth it.

By Bob

June 30, 2008 9:09 AM | Link to this

If Campbell, Hossa, Redden, Orpik, Steit,… all worthwhile UFAs sign with other teams, the Thrashers have no way to meet the new salary floor

They will sign one of Campbell or Redden, mabye Orpik, to a big deal. They also own Lehtonen a raise and will probably pick up Ryder as well, that’s a Waddell special right there.

I’m not interested in Streit, however. He’s a good puck mover, but terrible in his own end. Campbell, of course, is the prize here. If Waddell can sign him, that is a huge coup for him and would completely shock me.

Good move by Waddell to admit his mistake and waive/buyout Zhitnik. That certainly means we’ll sign one of those free agent dmen, please let it be Campbell, Redden, or Orpik.

My tainted view of Waddell means we’ll probably get stuck with Streit and Ryder, but I will hope for Campbell, he’s a great mobile dman.

By Bob

June 30, 2008 9:25 AM | Link to this

Instead of worrying about whether or not we’ll be able to reach the cap minimum (which is a valid concern as who the heck wants to sign here of their own volition), we should be excitedly anticipating tomorrow, as there is plenty of cap room to bring in the much needed reinforcements.

Waddell and the owners said at the end of the year that they had a plan.

Well, let’s see it come together tomorrow. Campbell signing, a trade for a center, and even a Ryder signing makes this club competitive, let’s get it done, Waddell.

By B. Thenet

June 30, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this

For a team that gave up 267 goals last year, the Lightning seem to be worrying a bit too much about adding goalscorers.

6 teams made the playoffs last year by scoring less or the same amount of goals than the Lightning did last year.

Sure it looks fun when the Tampa owners are trying to make a splash by signing every UFA they can get their hands on….heck it looked good when Arthur Blank was doing the exact same thing with the Falcons.

I am just glad it is one less team that can throw money at the top UFA defenseman.

By GaVaHokie

June 30, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this

Why do I feel that Campbell will take less money to stay in Ottawa?

By Sara

June 30, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this

Bob it’s interesting you are not interested in Streit because of his issues in his own end, but the same has often been said of Campbell (although he’s not terrible). But he’s been known to get out of position while jumping up into the offensive rush.

My only concern with this is due to the amount we are talking about paying to a d-man who does have some noted questions about his defensive play. On the flip-side, he should fit in well with Anderson’s system.

I just want this over with. Watching TB is making me sick to my stomach. So far everything (other than Bogosian) is making me sick to my stomach. Jokinen, Cammelleri, Stoll - all moved and none here. Blech.

By TableHockey

June 30, 2008 9:45 AM | Link to this

I agree Sara - I think we missed out on Jokinen - would have been a good center for Kovy.

I like Campbell but I’m not sure he’s worth the deal they are reporting Waddell is willing to pay. Not unless the Thrasher’s are going to come very close to the cap this year. Which would be a most unexpected and pleasant surprise - but highly unlikely.

By GaVaHokie

June 30, 2008 9:49 AM | Link to this

For a team that gave up 267 goals last year, the Lightning seem to be worrying a bit too much about adding goalscorers.

Exactly what I was thinking. And they’re still sub-par in goaltending.

Before all these signings, Tampa was only $10 million off of last years payroll. So unless the new ownership is willing to overspend, I’d say they’re done. They’ll have the same defense and goaltending as last year.

By Nikita

June 30, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this

We should trade Klee for a 2009 Pick.

No, we should not. He’s cheap, but expensive enough to help with the cap, he shows up and plays his heart out the vast majority of the time, he’s mentally steady, and he’s one of relatively few Thrashers who play basic, physical hockey — we need that desperately at every level. Plus his numbers were respectable, comparatively — I’m pretty tired of watching people defend younger players who have done substantially worse while disregarding Klee’s contributions. He’s not a top D-Man, but that’s not why we acquired him. He’s a third pairing guy or 7th man — and honestly, if we’re going to play Valabik/Ex we will need Klee for mental stability.

Should have waived Larson.

Eh, probably. But league minimum, blah blah. I’d be fine with seeing him sent out or down if camp shakes out such that there’s no space for him.

Or trade them both for a young winger or D man.

What you’d get for them won’t be worth it — we don’t really need anything less than an elite forward, and there’s not enough jingle there, and in D you won’t get better than Klee solo because the market is too tight.

Toddy White is worthless too, but he has more value on the trade market.

Does he? We in general don’t need forwards, Todd White costs a fair amount, and he spent a lot of the season injured. I’d like to see him sent out if he doesn’t fit the mix, but I don’t know how tradeable he is.

re: who’s gonna score? Er, if trained correctly the whole damned team’s gonna score. And, I’d like to point out that last year certain players whose names don’t start with a K scored despite the odds relatively often. Personally, I’m excited to see how the youth movement (Slater, Thorburn, Armstrong, Christensen, Little) shapes up, or if it does. I’m pretty certain that all of those players (except possible Slater and Christensen) will see substantial payout.

By B. Thenet

June 30, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this

I will say this about Todd White. Considering what Ryan Malone is getting paid, he might be one of the best value’s around for a guy who is generally good for 40-50 points/season.

I think with his contract, he would be very easy to move….however I think he has a nice rebound season and gets on the right side of 40-45 points next year.

By Sam

June 30, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this

Sara is right on the money with her posts (being concerned about the Lightning signings) but a few of the other posts here are mindboggling. How can anyone feel that that the Thrashers wouldn’t be a better team with all the same players that Tampa Bay has supposedly signed? Badmouthing Malone and Rolston?? Are you guys kidding? These are solid 2nd line players at the very minimum. The Thrashers wouldn’t be better with Stamkos, Malone, Roberts, and possibly Rolston? What games do you watch on NHL Center Ice or are you only into Thrashers hockey and hate everything else about the NHL? To the one poster who said Tampa isn’t addressing defensive needs, do you recall a little trade late last year about Richards and Mike Smith? Most everyone in the league expects Smith to be darn close to Turco. That’s quite an improvement over Holmqvist and rookie Ramo. I believe some of the posters here are in denial and I understand how much you hate the fact that Tampa is killing us in the off-season, but they are! They had one super line last year and then ZIP. Look at what they have done. C’mon guys, I love counterpoints and valuable disagreements but bashing players because another team gets them is showing a clear lack of respect and NHL knowledge. If Campbell signs with the Canes or Caps or someone else in the division, does he stink all of a sudden?

By Hip Czech

June 30, 2008 10:19 AM | Link to this

I’m not saying Malone and maybe Rolston if they sign him won’t help Tampa…I’m just saying I don’t think Malone would have been cost effective here. Malone is a good player, he was at an ideal time to get a big contract. The comparison of Malone’s numbers to White’s number is a good one.

We don’t need another Holik (or White) type contract at this point. I think we’re better off without Malone and using that money on two D.

Rolston would help here, but I’d rather get a younger option via trade.

Don’t forget Tampa gets Boyle for the whole year next year. They will definitely be improved, but hopefully if Waddell has a good week we will be improved as well.

By five_hole

June 30, 2008 10:25 AM | Link to this

I love how people say we should trade all of our underperforming players. Who in their right minds would give us anything for them? You sign ‘em, you’re stuck with ‘em, unless you waive ‘em.

*Toddy White is worthless too, but he has more value on the trade market. * I’m not on the Todd White bandwagen, but I’m not ready to get rid of him yet, either. OK, he didn’t have a stellar season last year. It was his first here, a lot of hockey depends on chemistry/history/learning the habits of teammates. I’m willing to cut him some slack and see how he does this year. He’s still not a #1, but he may be a decent #2.

And I’m anxious about tomorrow, but not really sweating. The way I see it, the pressure is all on Waddell. I think he knows that he’d better produce or he’s out. I’m hoping he realized his mistake last year of the smaller faster players. Especially when we’ve lost a guy like Holik (say what you want but he was a big body that hit people) we need size upfront that can go into corners and outmuscle the other guy.

By GaVaHokie

June 30, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this

Sam… who was bad mouthing Rolston and Malone?

The verdict is out on Mike Smith. He played behind one of the best defenses in the league in Dallas. And he hasn’t played a heavy schedule yet.

By Russ

June 30, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this

Obviously, there is no question that Campbell would significantly improve the blueline, but if the offer is really $42 mil for 5 years that is way too high for him. However, if the ownership’s goal is only to field a competitive team and never approach the cap, it won’t matter if he is overpaid or not…but if there ever came a time in the next five years where they decide to go for it and spend some money they will probably wish he wasn’t getting 1.5-2 mil. more than what he probably should have. As it stands right now this deal would make him the highest paid D-man in the NHL. I believe Lidstrom just won his sixth Norris trophy in seven years and Campbell would be making about $1 mil. more than Lidstrom.

By Bob

June 30, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this

Tampa is a lot better, those bad mouthing their moves are off base, I think. Malone would have been great here.

Jokinen never had a chance to come here though, and that’s not Waddell’s fault. No way Martin traded him within his own division.

it’s interesting you are not interested in Streit because of his issues in his own end, but the same has often been said of Campbell (although he’s not terrible). But he’s been known to get out of position while jumping up into the offensive rush

Sorry, comparing Streit to Campbell isn’t even close. Streit is just plain awful in his own d zone. Campbell is fine in his zone, sure, anyone that jumps into plays like he does is going to get caught out of position, but that’s a heck of a lot different than Streit being in position and just plain getting beat since he’s so bad in his own zone. Crap, the Habs played Streit at forward last year he’s so bad in his zone.

Sorry, Campbell is the prize here. Which makes me think that because of Waddell, he won’t come here and we’ll wind up with Streit, which would be par for the course and right in line with every UFA dman that Waddell signs (all busts).

Now, I wouldn’t mind losing out on Campbell as much if we sign Redden instead.

By Rocco D.

June 30, 2008 10:50 AM | Link to this

Are they gonna buy out Zhetnek? Gotta do it today, right?

By Sara

June 30, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this

Btw, how did I miss the fact that Malone’s dad just got hired by the Lightning? I thought I smelled a nasty stench emanating from the south. Not liking that at all.

Sooo…..what’s the over/under that Don actually signs ANY of our RFAs today?

By Tim

June 30, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this

Sam Malone might be good but still overpay noneless. I don’t see how Rolston can improve his play. He is past his prime already but will still be able to contribute. Gary Robert, well he will be there for leadership but no more, dead weight. Stamkos of course will be the killer, but we have Bogo to counter which is not too bad if you ask me. So far, maybe beside Malone (but not for the price, have yet having a PPG season, but will get his share of point playing alongside Lecavalier and St.Louis), I don’t see why i should be envious of TB. At least they have Boyles already which is what we lack. However Smith have yet to prove that he can play on a regular basis as a number 1 behind a defence that is less then stellar! Then again Lehtonen have injuty problems but beside that I rather go with Super Karrpa then Smith. IMO. If we land Campbell, fine, but we already aware of his defensive liability which is why I dont think he is worthing 8.4 millions a year. Then again I am no GM. However if we cannot land him, then I sure hope DW will have a better solution to address out defence. But I won’t badmouth Campbell saying he is a bad player.

By Alan

June 30, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this

five_hole - I agree. I mean, you wouldn’t take your trash to the pawn shop. So why would we take our under-performing players to the trade market? With the hopes that someone will actually take them?

Like you said, we signed ‘em so we’re stuck with ‘em.

By GaVaHokie

June 30, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this

However, if the ownership’s goal is only to field a competitive team and never approach the cap, it won’t matter if he is overpaid or not

Exactly… don’t worry about money. Just hope for the player.

According to Eklund latest story, Atlanta is pursuing Roszival and Streit, and possibly willing to overspend for them. Which, like Russ points out, doesn’t matter.

We’re not coming anywhere close to the $57 million mark.

By volgrad1985

June 30, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this

I’m more disappointed that we don’t get an opportunity to pursue Rolston as opposed to Malone. In my opinion, Malone isn’t really a proven commodity as yet, however with Rolston you know what you get (30 goals, good 2 way forward play, a Right Winger, veteran leader). Sure, his age gives reason to pause, but he has always been healthy and steady.

I want Campbell as much as most do, and if not him, then 2 D-men just below him on the list (Rozsival, Streit, Hainsey, Orpik).

Obviously, just as important is the need to address our offense. A top notch Center is pretty much out of the question through Free Agency, but still possible via trade. Most vital, I believe, is the pursuit of a Right Winger like Ryder, Vrbata, or even to go out of character and try for the premier RW RFA, Perry.

Of course, none of that above is a surprise to anyone, I just felt like sharing my opinion on who I’d like here. In the end, I don’t want foolish spending of money, but a clear signal must be sent to the rest of the SE Division (and Kovalchuk) that we are here to play this year.

By Rawhide

June 30, 2008 11:01 AM | Link to this

Rocco D - It is my understanding that they will need to do that today.

Other JB - $42 mil over 5 years is a lot of money, indeed…but I think we are gonna be forced to “overpay” to bring him in.

Truth is…money is what we have to lure such talent in, not history.

All else - Great discussions going on…enjoying every bit of it.

Carry on…

By Sara

June 30, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this

You know what Bob I’m not really sold on Campbell being the prize. Have you really looked at his stats?? Last year: 62 pts +8 (by benefit of his SJ time - he was -1 for Buffalo). The year before he had 48 pts and a +28 (great year for Buffalo wasn’t it?). Year before that, 44 pts and a -14. Skip back before the lockout year, he had 11 and 10 pts the previous two season and was -8 both years. That’s a whole lot of “-” there except Buffalo’s one great year and the time he spent in SJ (a great team with solid D). Which means, what is he gonna do here in ATL with mediocre D and a team system that’s decidedly heading toward all-offense all the time???

I’m sorry, but I’m having real doubts about giving a D-man $8.4M to come here and be a minus player. We can get that for a whole lot less. We don’t need his point production nearly as much as we need solid D and a good influence on our young guys coming up. I’m just not sold on the Campbell solution. I think this is becoming more about landing a big flashy name (any big flashy name) than really getting the right guy we need.

By Dunwoody_Kevin

June 30, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this

What happens if none of these big names want to come here? Then what? What will happen then?

By Bob

June 30, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this

You know what Bob I’m not really sold on Campbell being the prize

Okie dokie, I’d still take you as our GM over Waddell.

Seriously though, you have every right to that opinion, but you’re wrong. and you’ll be proven wrong tomorrow or the next day when Campbell gets the biggest contract handed out to a dman, because he is the biggest prize. I don’t get bogged down in stats, I watch games and players, and Campbell is a player.

If anyone is confused, here’s the scorecard. Campbell is the prize, but Redden is a great 2nd choice. Either would make me very happy and improve this club exponentially as they’ll fit in with coach’s new scheme and still be able to play defense. Rozsival pales in comparison, but is more likely for us, he won’t even make out top pair however but would make a decent #3 guy for us. Streit would be the booby prize and would be a signing that’s right up Waddell’s alley. He’s also be a #3 guy here and get a lot of PP time, but not PK time and limited even strenth minutes. You top pair would still be Havelid and Enstrom if they sign Rozsival or Streit. That’s not what we need, we need a top #1 guy that can eat minutes, both Campbell and Redden fit that bill.

By GaVaHokie

June 30, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this

Sara… I’d politely disagree.

Campbell was a bit of a late bloomer, I wouldn’t worry about a drop off. What I’d look at is how solid he was in Buffalo last year for a team that went the direction of youth.

If Atlanta is going for flashy offense (similar to Buffalo) what better proof do you need that he’s the perfect fit for Atlanta? If Campbell came in here, put up 60 pts and was -1, I’d say he was well worth $8 million and probably put on a heck of a show.

If Enstrom could tack on a 50 point season to match that, I’d say we have no problems in the SE Division.

By Smoothie

June 30, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this

I agree with Bob in the sense that Campbell is THE prize because he not only improves your defense but he also improves your TEAM. His puck moving skills and ability to forecheck and put pressure on the other team’s D makes him an inherently better player and even defender in my humble estimation.

Pair him with someone as responsible as Havelid and you have a match made in heaven. I have no problem splitting Toby and Nic if we were to sign Campbell. Hopefully, we can sign a guy like Roszival also and give Toby a very capable new linemate as well. Who wouldn’t be in favor of these pairings?

BC & Nic

Toby & Rozsival / Orpik / Hainsey

Klee & Bogosian

Ex = 7th D-man

By Dunwoody_Kevin

June 30, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this

Is that when we resign players like Bolton and Recci? When no other teams want them is that how we get them?

By five_hole

June 30, 2008 11:43 AM | Link to this

I found this link while reading cnn.com. There was a story in their “Truth & Rumors” about the Blackhawks wanting to sign Campbell. I found this particularly interestings: Cap regulations dictate that the most any player can earn next season is $11.34 million. Campbell, who made $1.75 million last season, is expected to sign for about $8 million annually. I didn’t know that there was an upper limit on what a player can be paid.

By Jim

June 30, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this

If you make an RFA offer in your own division you weaken your opponent’s roster or their cap space. Screw the Mister-Nice-Guy approach. It hasn’t worked yet and you can lock up young guys for a long time. Maybe it is high time Waddell and Company dive into the RFA market.

Interesting information here.

Wouldn’t the combination of Mike Green and Mezaros for $6.5 million be better in the long run than Campbell playing with Klee, Exelby or whomever for $10 million? I know Green isn’t up to Campbell’s standards yet, but he’s only 23 and logged a ton of minutes last year for the Caps. Good right-handed shooters from the point are tough to come by.

By Sara

June 30, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this

five-hole max individual contract is 20% of the salary cap.

Look, I’m not saying Campbell is bad. I just don’t know that he’s $8M+ for who knows how many years good. Enstrom is an offensive d-man. By all accounts so is Bogosian. I don’t want to lock in that much money to Campbell, which might bolster our offensive stats but not help our defensive stats, then not have enough money for Kovy + #1 center + Enstrom next year, etc etc. Remember too, money isn’t just about cap space, it’s about what the owners will let the GM spend. If they tighten their belts in a year or two, we could be screwed. And all for a guy who most experts I’ve seen agree is going to end up getting signed for a few million over his actual value because the market is so bad and some teams (ahem, us) are desperate.

I HATE being this desperate. It sucks. I don’t want to overpay players to come here…it just flies in the face of my good business sense. Except it’s not good business to keep on playing like crap either…and if it takes extra $$ to get good players, then that’s whatcha gotta do. But I still don’t have to like it.

Man I am grumpy today…I don’t know what my problem is. Hockey withdrawals maybe…severe FA-angst. Crappy-owner-itis. I think that’s my biggest problem. Ever since the draft when I caught a gander of the TB owners, and all they’ve done since, I’ve just been pea-green with jealousy. I want an owner like that. Spending money, making stuff happen, plus he’s hot as hell (sorry - had to throw that in there - Nikita and PJ will be feeling me though - they understand!). Plus they have TWO #1 centers - it’s just not right.

God, we have some seriously bad kharma here.

By GaVaHokie

June 30, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this

Sometimes the best defense is a good puck-controlling offense.

Just think of the puck-handling we’d have with Enstrom, Campbell and Bogosian.

By Alan

June 30, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this

Sara - I think it’s a combination of hockey withdrawals and too much looking at other cities.

I know it’s tough being in our situation, since we’re both Wings fans. I know I for one am watching the situation up there as well as the one we’re facing here. But I’m not letting what Detroit (or Tampa, or Colorado) does get in the way of my thinking about Atlanta, nor am I letting it bother me that X owners are doing Y. Just not worth my time or trouble.

As for curing the withdrawals? How about Game 7 of the 1994 Stanley Cup?

By GaVaHokie

June 30, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this

Spoke too soon… Tampa is now looking at either Auld or Kolzig in net (E4).

By Smoothie

June 30, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this

If we do happen to sign Campbell to a contract worth between 8 and 8.5 mill / year, and assuming Kovy re-signs for somewhere in the neighborhood of $9.5 mill / yr, then we probably shouldn’t expect another D-man in the mix. Chances are we will need to pay Kari 3.5 - 3.75 mill / yr and Enstrom 2.5-3.5 mill / yr depending on performance this year. Those salaries along with Z’s buyout amount of 1.667 / yr puts us within 15 mill of the 56.7 mill cap before we sign a C, a RW (or 2 RW) and re-up all of our UFA / RFA next year…Sara’s right in the sense that we prolly can’t afford to get into a bidding war for BC. Hopefully, 8.5 mill will be enough!

By Stephen

June 30, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this

My friend told me the Thrashers are going to sign Brian Cambell. Is this true?

By Sara

June 30, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this

Auld or Kolzig?? They must be convinced Smith is the guy and just want a vet to go with him. Otherwise, they should take a run at Huet since Washington is apparently having problems getting him wrapped up. If they lose Huet, the Caps may struggle big time if they can’t find a suitable replacement. If Tampa were to gain him…cripes it’s not worth contemplating.

Alan it’s still early to judge the ‘08 off-season, obviously since FA hasn’t even opened. But it’s hard to see a division rival stocking up when we are basically sitting in neutral. We’ve gotten lucky to play in a relatively weak division but that is rapidly changing. Carolina always has potential, Washington has risen to the top, and Tampa apparently doesn’t intend to make it’s stay in the basement a long one. Considering we face these teams so much, what they are doing is always of concern IMO.

Btw, anyone seen our beatwriter?? I know he was on vacation but he ought to be back by now … time to get that ball rolling. I’d like a statement from the organization as to what is going on with Zhit and see if he can feel out where Don is heading tomorrow (aside from the apparent obvious of Campbell).

By GaVaHokie

June 30, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this

It’s official, Zhitnik is bought out and outta here!

By Tom

June 30, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this

94th

By Alan

June 30, 2008 1:06 PM | Link to this

Sara - Well, they are your nerves. If you want to wreck them, by all means. I think everyone looking at Tampa is much ado about nothing.

Any team can throw any amount of money around that it wants to (including ours). The real test will come during the regular season. My point is, worrying isn’t going to make anything any easier, and it’s certainly not doing everyone’s frayed nerve endings any favors.

By kracker

June 30, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this

Stephen That depends on who your friend is.

By Hip Czech

June 30, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this

Washington probably makes a play for Theodore if they cannot resign Huet.

Don’t forget about Florida (like you need MORE anxiety!). They got 2 very good defensemen in the Jokinen deal, to go along with Bowmeister et al…they are solid on the blueline, solid in net, and have some decent young centers (Horton, Weiss, MacLean). If they pick up a winger or two they are going to be in the mix as well.

Hopefully Waddell has something up his sleeve as far as getting a center in here. It is depressing seeing two centers that we all had targeted last year at the trade deadline (Cammalleri and Stoll) being dealt elsewhere. The Sharks signed Pavelski who would have been another good trade.

I have not been able to find what the penalty is for not being at the cap minimum. Assuming Lehtonen is signed and assuming we can coax one grade A FA (Campbell, Redden) or two grade A1 FA (Roszival, Hainsey) here, we probably won’t have to worry about reaching the minimum.

We can’t negotiate a new deal for Kovalchuk until after this coming season?

By Hip Czech

June 30, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this

It may not be all blue skies in mullet land:

With all the wheeling and dealing going on in Tampa, there is continued speculation that Boyle might be on the way out if the Lightning can work out a trade. Boyle has a no-trade clause, though, and he is not likely to waive it. The Lightning could put Boyle on waivers, but he would surely be claimed and the Lightning would get nothing in return but cap space, which makes that scenario unlikely, too.

Boyle’s agent, George Bazos, told TSN he has not been contacted by the Lightning regarding Boyle’s future with the team, and his client has not been asked to waive his no-trade clause.

By kracker

June 30, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

Correct, a contract extension can not be negotiated with more than one year remaining on the player’s contract. When exactly that is for the player, I don’t know. Could be when the player finishes playing the previous season or July 1 or Sept 15. I’m sure someone knows.

By Rawhide

June 30, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this

Tom - 94th…LOL!!!

Stephen - I sure hope your friend is either Don Waddell or Campbell’s agent!

Hokie - Yup…is is done.

By Sara

June 30, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this

HipCzech I know being below the floor cuts into the revenue sharing a team could receive. I don’t know if it’s phased out based on how far below the minimum a team is, or if being below the minimum at all means you lose it all. It might also get the Commish breathing down your neck if he thinks you can’t financially support the team. Any repercussions beyond that I’m not certain of.

And contract extension talks can only take place during the last year of the current contract.

By TableHockey

June 30, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this

I read the Anderson interview and saw where his first regular season NHL game will in Atlanta against the Caps.

I know the schedule hasn’t been released - does anyone know at least when that first game is going to be?

As far as new pick ups go - I would hope we could get either Campbell, Redden or Orpik. Any of these would, to varying degrees, help our D situation.

Based on comments from Kovy - DW should be looking for a good set up man at center. Who’s out there that looks promising? I haven’t heard much about UFA centers.

By JB

June 30, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this

I really hope we make a strong play for Campbell, and I would be alright with it being 8-8.5 mil a year. He definitely improves our transition game and offensive upside from the defensive department.

So, Rawhide would you give Soupy a 5 year, 40+ million dollar contract?

By Sara

June 30, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this

What make that Boyle situation so interesting is he just signed that contract extension and the new owners approved the whole deal. Now suddenly they want to take it back. IMO that’s a huge mistake - unless they want to move him to make room for Campbell, they can’t afford to lose Boyle.

Of course, that isn’t nearly as ugly as the McCabe situation brewing in TO. Just when it looked like that group might finally start getting its act together…at least I have the comfort of NOT being a Leafs fan.

By Thrashers27

June 30, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this

Table…

I read that about the first game too. I wonder if he isn’t assuming that the caps are game #1 of the season due to the fact that they were the first game last season.

Come on, DW I really hope you have something up your sleeve that will keep us competitive with the rest of the south”least”.

By GaVaHokie

June 30, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

Assuming Lehtonen is signed and assuming we can coax one grade A FA (Campbell, Redden) or two grade A1 FA (Roszival, Hainsey) here, we probably won’t have to worry about reaching the minimum.

We can always make a trade with Anaheim to pick-up Mathieu Schneider… while I don’t personally want him, there’s worse players you can get at $5.75 million. That should help us reach the salary cap minimum if we can’t land Campbell, Roszival or Oprik.

By Hip Czech

June 30, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

The only centers out there via FA would be restricted FA (at least in my very humble opinion).

Filpula, O’Sullivan, or maybe Bouchard (I think he is a center) I think would all be worthy targets of a RFA offer. Look, Waddell is already the laughingstock of the league, he might as well become a pain in the a$$ and force another team’s hand.

The same might be said for Mike Green from Washington, though seeing Anderson and Boudreau are friends that might not play too well. Wow, what a way to ratchet up a rivalry though…

Good RFA article…even for a fantasy hockey column.

By Universal Dawg

June 30, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this

I agree with several posters on here..Sara, Bob, others. I believe that 8.5 million is better spent on two good players instead of one (expected to be) great player. Knowing we could get a D and RW, I would prefer an Orpik, Hainsey or Rozsival and a Vrbata or Ryder in place of Campbell making 8.5 mill. I think our team improves more with two players instead of one. We need too many pieces in order to be a playoff team. Therefore, using the playoffs as the goal, we should upgrade as many positions as possible as quickly as possible. If you take 2 or 3 years to make it back to the post-season, you lose some of the fan support and momentum this sport gained two years ago during our brief playoff appearence.

By Rawhide

June 30, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this

JB - Yes…yes I would. That would be my 1st option. However, if the team is unsuccessful in landing him… a good #2 option is what Universal Dawg posted.

By LAC

June 30, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this

I like your comments Hip Czech, right on the money !!!!!!

Finally a positive move waiving zit and buying him out.

But what this kinda shows, is a slight shift in policy or mindset of whoever is calling, or trying, to call the shots.

This being a player issue, we seem so set on older UFA’s or real retreads who are near the end of their serviceable career, today we took steps to YES… Move forward.

I hope that this is a sign, no matter how feeble, that some kinda reason is creeping into the people who are in control of this, to date… Train wreck !

Larsen needs to go, he’s not as much $ on the books, but do the Thrashers really need this guy ???????

Who are the scorers out there who can/could be an asset here ?

We HAVE to have additional scoring, and waddell needs to get his act togather and finally show US the FANS he does have some brain inside his head… After all we have had far too much of losing with him in control.

By R. Stroz

June 30, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this

Just think, by this time tomorrow, we will either be pi$$ing and moaning or happy as kids getting an extra 15 minutes of recess.

By Smoothie

June 30, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this

I’m a big fan of Mike Knobler thus far into his tenure, but I must say that it is getting a bit aggravating that there is basically NO coverage of the Thrashers right now. Even Schultzie seems to be on vacation.

It may seem like a dead time of year, but on the contrary. The dead period of the offseason does not begin until AFTER the 4th of July. How in the world does ajc.com not get their own confirmation of the Zhitnik waiver situation?? That is inexcusable in my opinion. Would it kill someone in the Sports Dept to pick up the phone and call DWad for a quote at this point?

This franchise is at the most important cross-roads of its existence and not a damn soul at our paper gives a damn…that is just pathetic! Even Sekou Smith has an article up this Monday in which he speculates about the free-agent futures of the two Joshes.

By Sara

June 30, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this

HipCzech McPhee said they would match any offer for Green that came along. Shame since he’s so good, but as pointed out, if we are going to snipe someone’s RFA it probably ought to be a center at this point.

Table Hockey the FA center market blows chunks this year. Here is a list of what’s out there - rather uninspiring, especially given how many are over the 30-year mark. I’d probably have the most interest in Morrison, maybe Straka. Mostly though it is just ugh.

Vrbata or Ryder might be our best bets for RW (since I doubt Hossa’s coming back). Maybe Demitra if we can sign him to a short contract??

Either way..I just wish today was tomorrow already.

By Alan

June 30, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

Stroz - At least we won’t be p** and moaning about the extra 15min of recess.

By Hip Czech

June 30, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

Smoothie…I agree, it stinks that we have to go to other cities newspaper websites to get any hockey information at all.

What’s going to happen when high school football cranks up in another couple of weeks?

By TableHockey

June 30, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

Sara - uninspiring is a very good description.

Boy, Holik’s salary puts him in high company - Federov, Sakic, Forsberg.

Hopefully trader Don’s got something up his sleeve - otherwise he’s going to have to pull something from a lower proximity to try to find a center man for Kovy.

By Sara

June 30, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

Smoothie I’m with ya there. I can’t blame Mike - he’d probably already booked his vacation before he even got offered this position. But someone surely (Carroll??) could have filled in at least a bit. I mean sheesh, it was over 24 hours after the Zhitnik-being-waived news hit that the headline even changed and here he’s been bought out and there’s a big nothing!

If nothing else, Mike’s certainly got his work cut out for him when he gets back.

By five_hole

June 30, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this

Sara - may I suggest a nice 18 yr old single malt scotch to calm your nerves. It does wonders for mine.

And I respectfully disagree with my collegues re: 2 tier-2 are better than 1 tier-1. That’s what DW’s been doing to our roster (actually signed a few iter-3’s, but that’s a different subject). I want QUALITY over quantity. I’m thinking a tier-1 D-man and a tier-1 RW and stock the difference with callups from Chicago. Guys like LaVallee and Sterling, or Kudla and Valabik.

By GaVaHokie

June 30, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this

I agree with several posters on here..Sara, Bob, others. I believe that 8.5 million is better spent on two good players instead of one (expected to be) great player.

Normally, I would (and have said) exactly the same thing. But in this case, you gotta spend money on the difference maker. Campbell is much more of a difference maker than Rozsival, Hainsey and Orpik.

Sure you could spend money on both Lang and Nylander, but wouldn’t you rather have Joe Thornton straight up?

I still think we can get Orpik or Commodore on top of Campbell.

If that happens, I expect everyone to be calling their season ticket reps immediately. ;)

By Brendan

June 30, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this

Empty Seats Everywhere, There are enough transplants from other hockey markets that will pay to go to games when their hometown club visits Philips Arena, to keep the team’s head just above water, financially. There are also enough people and corporate sponsors who will fork over money, “no matter what, no questions asked,” in BLIND SUPPORT of this club, to sustain it. If Waddell keeps the salary at the floor, (low overhead,) and Atlanta gets Tavares in next year’s draft, the team remains extremely ATTRACTIVE to a prospective buyer, giving the Spirit Group what they covet most: A monster pay day at the closing table.

Russ, another great post on the value of player contracts, and ramifications thereof, for the future of this team, if it ever gets to a point where it can seriously gun for a Stanley Cup title.

B.Thenet, I agree with you on Todd White. As a 3rd line center, his production reflects excellent value for the money, and is far CHEAPER than Holik, in that role. Asking Todd White to be MORE than a 3rd line center, in part, contributed to the organization’s failure to secure the Marian Hossa contract during the season.

Bob, my fear is that Waddell will land Wade Redden at $7.5 million per season, or higher. The reason we’d get him?? No other GM thinks he’s worth that kind of money. And they’d be right. Meanwhile, Bruce Levenson will trumpet the signing as, “See, I told you we know how to sign (Tier I) free agents.” It has “buy out” written all over it. Our market isn’t Detroit. We can’t make mistakes of this magnitude and recover from them. The Bobby Holik contract surely taught us that lesson. I wanted Orpik and Malone. Marc Streit is a player who probably reflects “good value for the money.” He can play PP minutes. I think we’d be lucky that Streit even considers the Atlanta market. He could probably do much better elsewhere. Same goes for Roszival. The fact that he’s coming off hip surgery probably improves Atlanta’s chances of landing his contract. I wouldn’t be shocked to see Waddell’s last move to pick up Steve Montador, at $800,000, or Marc Recchi, for $1.0 million. As you’ve always said, Bob, and I AGREE, nothing meaningful will change until meaningful changes are made. And that begins with the removal of Waddell as GM. It also includes a philosophical change in business plan, as Ranallo says. It’s a two-fold process. And BOTH have to happen at the SAME TIME.

By GaVaHokie

June 30, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this

For about $18 million, we could have Campbell, Commodore, Ryder and Avery.

By Smoothie

June 30, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this

Indeed Sara, it’s not Mike’s fault and I’m certainly not pointing the finger of blame at him. He just came on board and wowed us with more regular blogs than even CC. Get this, there’s even an article posted on the front Sports “page” about how there is “no vacation from news” with respect to UGA. Apparently, there is a vacation from hockey news about 180 days of the year in this football-obsessed town!

And there’s even an article about a deceased football mascot (a cute little dog of course, but a dog mind you!) trumps the cutting of a “big name” player on one of the 4 major sports teams in this town. And will somebody tell me why in the hell we have a woman’s b’ball franchise when we can barely support the Hawks and Thrashers in a given year?? Absolutely absurd. I guess we’re lucky to have this blog to pi$$ and moan about all things Thrashers.

And Stroz, I will personally be a hell of a lot happier than any child in this city during a day at Six Flags if we sign Campbell.

By J(Z)

June 30, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this

I’d be ok with that. Avery’s a guy that you love to have on your team, but if not everyone see’s him as an a-hole. (which he still may be, but at least he’d be OUR a-hole!)

By Rob Ray

June 30, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this

As a native of Buffalo and having followed the Sabres, Campbell is solid player but In my opinion no where near worth 8 mill a season. I agree with some of the other postings, get 2 or possibly 3 other solid players for a little bit more than the 8 million total a year. Kudos for getting rid of Zhitnik. The guy is a cancer. I’m very nervous about the free agent period. I’m betting DW doesn’t have ANYTHING up his sleeve. Every team in this division is going to be better, except us (I hope I’m wrong). Please step down DW! Watching Tampa make all these moves makes me want to throw up. Who wouldn’t want some of these guys, Umburger, Malone, Ralston??? Please DW do SOMETHING.

By Bob

June 30, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this

Sara, thanks for that link to UFAs, I just went shopping. The Thrashers’ will be denying it in a presser later today, but in my new capacity as GM, here’s who I’m targeting to fix our holes (I’m going by my new bosses who told me I have $13m to spend on free agents):

Redden gets 4 years at $6m per year Morrison gets 3 years at $3m per Demitra gets 3 years at $4m per

Kovy-Morrison-Demitra. Kozlov-Christensen-Armstrong. Perrin-White-Slater The Center Line. Lavallee-Little-Thorburn.

Redden-Havelid. Enstrom-Bogosian. Klee-Exelby.

Kari-Moose.

Press box for Larsen and Valabik.

Don’t know if that lineup is going to scare anyone, but it might be competitive for the 8th spot.

I tell you what, we have an overabundance of 3rd and 4th line centers, good job Donnie. White, Little, Slater, Christiansen, Perrin. Slater can play wing, I guess Perrin can play wing as well, but I wouldn’t be suprised to see one of this group of guys traded, White preferably, and then put Stuart in his slot.

By ranallo10

June 30, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

Since the official Thrashers website hasn’t even announced the Zhitnik waiver (much less the subsequent buyout), how about we not get up in arms about the AJC not putting out a public service announcement?

Seriously, it’s not that big of a deal, why are you concerned so much? The AJC gives second rate coverage for hockey, and even good writers like Custance or Knobler cannot impact that. The reason? Well, it’s because hockey isn’t nearly as big of a draw as college football is to Atlanta and neighboring cities.

I’m sure NASCAR Dave and other UGA fans are more upset about the inbred dog’s demise than they are about Zhitnik’s departure. Since they’re (UGA fans) the paying customers, and outnumber us (the hockey fans), can you blame the AJC for ignoring us and focusing on their larger demographic?

It’s a story that TSN broke…why worry about it? What else needs to be said that can’t wait until tomorrow, or next week, or next month?

Waddell said they hadn’t discussed waiving Zhitnik, after which apparently the discussions began and they decided to buy Zhitnik out. End of story. What else is there to be said???

Jesus Mary and Joseph, get a hold of yourselves!

By Rawhide

June 30, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

Smoooooothie - feel free to “pi$$ and moan” here all ya want :o)

Rob Ray - Welcome and thanks for the input!

Hokie & J(Z) - I’m on record as saying I want NOTHING to do with Avery. However, IF we were to bring him in…I’d be one of those standing and cheering the first time he jacked with an opposing player so much that he was totally taken off his game.

By Hip Czech

June 30, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

Bob, I would mind seeing Demitra here, though has he ever played a full year?

Morrison no thanks, and I still don’t have a warm fuzzy feeling about Redden. I’d rather go younger.

Rozsival at 3.5 per, Commodore at 2.5 per, Ryder at 4.5 per and Vrbata at 2.5 per.

That still leaves a center to find. That has got to come via trade somehow…or we go with the 3rd and 4th liners we got:

Kovy-Christensen-Ryder Kozlov-Little-Vrbata Perrin-White-Armstrong Lavalee-Slater-Thorburn

Rozsival-Havelid Enstrom-Commodore Bogosian-Klee XLB/Valabik

By GaVaHokie

June 30, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this

I’d like to see Bogosian and Avery make Stamkos cry about 8 times a year.

Remember what everyone loved about Jon Sim just two years ago? Well, Avery is the same quality player x 5. An in your face, irritating Center with a scoring flare… he’s a game changer.

By Sara

June 30, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this

I LOVE LOVE LOVE Avery. Course, I’m a Wings fan so there ya go. Hated that trade. However, we have bigger fish to fry than picking up an annoying pest (though they are fun to have).

Bob I like that site too since it’s broken down by position AND updated with current developments (most helpful). I’d be ok with Redden - he’s only a couple of years older than Campbell but would be cheaper. Maybe also not quite so picky?? I’d prefer Ryder to Demitra. I still want Orpik. And Hip Czech I doubt Bob wants Morrison any more than I do but when the pickin’s is slim…he’s the best on that last that might actually be attainable. Can’t bank on trades either - I think most of the centers that will be moved have gotten moved, or will cost us someone named Pavs, Enstrom, Bogo…you get the idea.

By Hip Czech

June 30, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this

As far as Morrison goes, yeah, he may be out there but we already have one Todd White, we don’t need another one.

I don’t know what Bob’s basis of 13 million was…we have close to 30 million in cap space. Take about 3 million out to sign Lehtonen and that leaves us 27 million…leave 7 million wiggle room and we ought to be able to spend close to 20 million to pick up a couple D, and a couple wingers.

If we really want a center via FA I say go over the top and make a run at O’Sullivan or Bouchard.

By Bob

June 30, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this

I doubt Bob wants Morrison any more than I do but when the pickin’s is slim

What she said. It’s him or Straka. Ugh.

Kills me that Waddell wasn’t in on the Cammelleri talks, or if he was, that he couldn’t pull it off.

By Nikita

June 30, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this

Bob, I like some of your lineup, but here’s how I’d tweak it:

Kovy-Morrison-Thorburn. Demitra-Perrin-Armstrong. Kozlov-Christensen-Slater. Boulton-Little-Lavallee.

Havelid-Orpik. Enstrom-Roszival. Klee-Valabik, assuming Valabik plays well enough.

Press box for Larsen and Ex.

Finally, on Sean Avery…I waver a lot on him. He’s a double-edged sword, for sure. On the other hand, we could use an effective pest who is also adpet at drawing publicity, and that’s what he is — the only one in the league.

By Nikita

June 30, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this

…It’s him or Straka…

swoons . Yes, please. At the right price.

By Tim

June 30, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this

DW would have to give up his 3rd for Cammelleri. I rather he keeping his 3rd overall and draft Bogo.

By Bob

June 30, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this

As far as Morrison goes, yeah, he may be out there but we already have one Todd White, we don’t need another one

Hip Czech, no way. Morrison is a much better player than Todd White. I dogged the White signing the day it was made last year, Morrison would be a decent top 2 center. Take a look at the list, there’s no one else, Straka?

I don’t know what Bob’s basis of 13 million was…we have close to 30 million in cap space

Hey, that’s what my new bosses told, you will get $13m and like it!

Seriously though, I think we’re at $25m right now and per nhlnumbers.com that doesn’t include Moose or Lehts. So, pencil in $4m total for the two of them, leaving us at $29m, I figure the FUBAS will give Waddell about $15m to spend above that, of which $13m can be used to bring in three UFAs and the last couple mill for re-signing our leftover RFA spare parts that will go to Chicago.

I would love to believe that there’s $20m greenlighted to be spent on this club in the next couple of days, but do you think that’s reality? I certainly don’t. Guess we’ll know within 48 hours.

By ranallo10

June 30, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this

From NHL Fan Faceoff Survey:

Are you planning to renew your season tickets to the Atlanta Thrashers for the 2008-09 NHL season?

Please select one response only.

Yes

No (Please Specify a Reason)

Not Sure

I clicked no, and specified “inept ownership” as my reason for non-renewal.

The NHL survey peeps will never know I truly didn’t renew due to my impending move to Europe…I’m so sneaky!

By Hip Czech

June 30, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

I was going with these numbers:

http://www.hockeybuzz.com/cap-central/

Now, I am not deranged enough to think that the ASG will spend up to the cap (nor should they), but I hope they are a little generous with the purse strings.

Straka signed in Europe, depending on the reports you read.

Morrison stats for the last 3 years:

05/06 - 19 G 37 A -1

06/07 - 20 G 31 A -9

07/08 - 9 G 16 A -3 (granted he only played in 39 games)

White stats:

05/06 - 19 G 21 A -1

06/07 - 13 G 31 A +8

07/08 - 14 G 23 A -12

Don’t see a whole lot of difference there.

By kovy17

June 30, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this

A lot of people are saying nobody wants to come to atlanta. If we can sign one big player i think we can get more (if we spend money) I think we should go for campbell and we will have to overpay for any good FA cause of the increase in the cap. If we really want a top line center for kovy then it will have to be in a trade i dont consider any of the FA centers that good

By five_hole

June 30, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this

I just had my season ticket rep call me (again). I told him I wanted to see how the draft shakes out, and we started talking. I mentioned that I hoped we could get Campbell. He was pretty upfront with me, and while he didn’t say Campbell specifically, did specifically say we’re going to get a D-man.

Now, just how clued-in is he? Probably not very. Just thought I’d pass this along.

By Nikita

June 30, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this

Straka said he would retire this year, and I think he’s going back to his home team. But if not, I’d love to see him in Thrasher blue because I love him. He is my favorite player, bar none.

Guess I should get a new one, huh? Since I won’t be seeing any Czech league games on SportsSouth and all.

By five_hole

June 30, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this

BTW Sara While I was talking to the rep, he said we would be playing the Western Central; specifically we will play Detroit and we’ve got St. Louis here (my hometown).

By Bob

June 30, 2008 6:09 PM | Link to this

did specifically say we’re going to get a D-man. Now, just how clued-in is he?

I’d say he’s right on the money and clued in.

The question is, do we get Campbell or Redden?

Or, do we get Rozsival or Streit.

I’m estactic if they sign Campbell or Redden.

I’m happy if they sign Orpik.

I remain completely dumbfounded why they kept Waddell, and will figure it as par for the course if he signs Rozsival or Streit.

By Brendan

June 30, 2008 6:11 PM | Link to this

Okay, we’re really closing on the ZERO HOUR, less than 24-hours away. So, here’s what is tantamount to my final “Hossa Sweepstakes” accounting. By Team, and NTC or not. If I have missed you, or you want to be a late entrant, speak up now!! Or forever hold your peace. At 11:15 AM, tomorrow, all submissions are closed.

Anaheim: Five_Hole, no NTC decision.

Atlanta: R.Stroz, no NTC decision.

Boston: Alan, no NTC, GaVaHokie, no decision on NTC.

Calgary: R. Skeen, no NTC.

Colorado: HookyBob, no NTC decision.

Detroit: Bob, NTC, Brendan, NTC, Former Islanders Fan, no decision on NTC, Nascar Dave, NTC.

L.A. Kings: J(Z), no decision on NTC.

Montreal: Kracker, no decision on NTC, RAWHIDE, NTC, Sharon, no decision.

NY Rangers: PJ, no decision on NTC, Sara, no decision on NTC

Ottawa: Tim, no NTC.

Pittsburgh: Jameson, no NTC, Polskidawg, no decision, Ranallo, no decision, Smoothie, no decision, ThrasherNY, no decision, Volgrad, no NTC.

Tampa Bay: LAC, no NTC.

Toronto: EROCK, NTC.

Vancouver: B.Thenet, NTC, Russ, no NTC, and Universal Dawg, NTC.

There it is, folks. Pittsburgh has six votes. Detroit is next, with four votes. Montreal and Vancouver got three votes. Boston and NYR got two votes.

NTC vs. No NTC: Seven (7) votes in favor and seven (7) votes against it. It’s a tie.

So … that’s what we, the bloggers, think, as we head into what could arguably be the most important day in the future of the Atlanta Thrashers Hockey Club. Remember this, ACTION, as well as INACTION, has consequences and ramifications. Jay Grossman, Ilya Kovalchuk’s agent, and #17, are watching, waiting, and hoping for the best.

By Sara

June 30, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this

five_hole I figured we were due to get the central here this year. Well there’s at least one game I will go to this season…my favorite kind of game - I get to cheer all game long no matter who does what. ;)Ending in a 6-5 ATL SO winner is always nice too - points all around!

I have no doubt (nor does anyone else in the League) that DW intends to try to sign Campbell. But trying doesn’t guarantee success. I think his best hope is that Campbell is young enough to possibly be willing to take a chance playing here for big money. On a five year deal, he’d be 33 at the end and likely still good enough to get another contract with a contender if we weren’t one by that time. But let’s face it - he’d probably rather go to a contender now, plus possibly get closer to his family in Canada.

At least what you got told by your rep was better than what I got told by mine - “hey, at least when you come to games you get to see other teams like the Penguins so it’s still great hockey.” Yeah - great sales job there.

By Sara

June 30, 2008 6:48 PM | Link to this

Prospal has signed with Tampa.

Wonder how much cap space they have left?

By kracker

June 30, 2008 7:09 PM | Link to this

Malone….Prospal….Roberts….maybe Kolzig….all I see for the Thrash, beyond the Zhitnik moves (as yet unconfirmed by AJC Sports but I understand, they are grieving for UGA VI) is Eklund rumors:

On Streit - San Jose is very interested as is Atlanta (who may throw the most money at Streit and/or Rozsival)

On Recchi - I am told that Rex is most likely back to Atlanta, but a few more teams than expected are interested including Chicago and Montreal.

I’d post a link but why? Even the people that say they hate him go there. Eklund is now the Drudge Report of the hockey world, which ain’t small potatoes.

By five_hole

June 30, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this

Brendan I want to make a last-minute switch, from Aneheim to San Jose. Aneheim doesn’t have the cap space; SJ does.

Sara at least that shows your primary allegiance is to Atlanta. I still have the Blues in me, but I will root for the Thrashers when they come here.

kracker I like Recchi, I really do, but I just don’t have confidence to put him on one of the top-2 lines anymore. He’s a heart & soul guy and you gotta like having them on the team. Maybe if he’d be willing to be a 4th line guy … …

By Brendan

June 30, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this

Five_hole, duly noted. Your Hossa end destination is now San Jose. Can I put you down for a NTC? Or no NTC?

By Sam

June 30, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this

Good rebuttals about Smith. That Dallas D is WAY better than Tampa’s. Who on earth could have started that strange Boyle rumor? They just signed him. Must be out of Toronto to stir the pot.

By kracker

June 30, 2008 7:55 PM | Link to this

Brendan, put me down for a NMC, just to be different.

By Rawhide

June 30, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

If you had Lilja on your defensive signing wish list…so sorry.

By five_hole

June 30, 2008 8:06 PM | Link to this

Brendan - I’ll guess no NTC.

By J (Z)

June 30, 2008 8:16 PM | Link to this

No NTC for me

By JB

June 30, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this

I’m paraphrasing here but this is what Bob McKenzie says:

Alot of teams have interest in Brian Campbell; the Senators have interest but due to monetary funds or lack thereof they may be out of the race. Campbell like Hossa will be looking for the longest term and money he can get on the open market and the Thrashers are probably the team that is willing to throw the most money and length of contract at Campbell. The only concern from a Thrasher standpoint is if Campbell want to play for a rebuilding team; also New York and New Jersey have interest as well.

Its from a UFA video on the TSN home page.

I think if the main thing Soupy is looking for is money and term we win.

Also the Ducks have inked Corey Perry.

By T-Bone

June 30, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this

Personally, I’m lovin all the coverage from the AJC this week. Really good stuff coming from Marietta Street! Thanks for going the extra mile to make sure somebody was around to write something about this most important week.

By polskidawg

June 30, 2008 10:10 PM | Link to this

Brendan - can I change to Boston? I got a funny feeling that the Bruins are about to sign the anti-Cam.

I hate to sound like an idiot (yea, I know, its what I’m best at) but what is NTC??

By Brendan

June 30, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this

Polskidawg, you can change your vote to any team you’d like, as long as you do it before 11:15 AM tomorrow. The “FRENZY” officially begins at Noon. But, with delays and processing, I’m closing it early. There has been AMPLE TIME to cast a vote on this matter, if someone were so inclined.

“NTC” = No Trade Clause.

“NMC” = No Movement Clause.

The difference? Uhhh, nothing. I think. There are “limited movement clauses,” like the one Alex Ovechkin signed with the Capitals. A limited movement clause basically means that Ovechkin has to approve the trade. He can veto a trade to certain teams, that fall within certain parameters. Like say, 28th-place team. There’s a limited number of times he veto a trade. It’s fair to say that … Ovechkin might not be traded to the leading Stanley Cup contender, but it will be a team with more than just a “glimmer” of hope. Not that I think the Capitals will ever trade him. That was just a “for instance.”

By polskidawg

June 30, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this

Brendan - thanks for the explanation on NTC. I’ll say no on the NTC, though I wouldn’t be surprised if it contains a limited clause to sign in Bahston.

By Sam

June 30, 2008 10:45 PM | Link to this

Isn’t this the best yet with Rawhide in charge? People jamming this site during the summer months. Thank you! Just wishing he was in charge of this thing back when Atlanta was in first place most of the season before the disaster against the Rangers. Those were the best times in franchise history and no one wrote about it for the AJC. It was weeks sometimes before new posts.

By ranallo10

June 30, 2008 10:47 PM | Link to this

Brendan — The difference between the two is in the words.

No Trade means the team cannot trade the player without his consent, No Movement means the team cannot move the player to the minors nor trade him.

Tucker had a No Movement clause in his contract, so when “waived” he was allowed the option to accept the waiver process or decline it and become a UFA. He declined the movement, and is now a UFA.

By Brendan

June 30, 2008 10:50 PM | Link to this

As we stand of the “eve” of the FRENZY, let’s not forget two (2) very important things. (1) The players Don Waddell signs tomorrow were NOT by accident. They were a thought out, calculated strategy by Waddell and the ownership, just as Todd White and Eric Perrin were. Both were signed on July 1st, 2007.

Segue, (2) certain Thrashers are eligible to be re-signed tomorrow, as well. Tobias Enstrom is one of those players, as he is now said to be in his “final year” of his contract. Likewise, Center Eric Perrin is eligible for re-signing, one-year ahead of schedule. Nic Havelid is eligible to negotiate with the Thrashers. Jim Slater is eligible to renegotiate a contract. As is Chris Thorburn. I can’t remember if Exelby is? If he signed his current 3-year contract two-years ago, then he is. If he signed it last year, he isn’t.

Like it or not, GM’s are forced to think several years in advance, in terms of their long range, strategic plans. See Ray Shero and the Pittsburgh Penguins. Even though the CBA expires in 2011, teams have not been shy to offer six-year deals. The thinking must be … if we have to “rollback” salary, at least we have the essential players under contract.

By Brendan

June 30, 2008 11:06 PM | Link to this

Ranallo, thanks for the no movement clarification. I can’t imagine some GM ever really thinking, “I can always stash Hossa in the minors.” The AHL team that gets Hossa, is gonna win! But seriously, it is an excellent point of distinction, as it can change a player’s status, if waived. Again, what team is going to waive Hossa? Maybe at the tail end of his career. Or if the team completely mismanages its cap.

Even if Hossa got an NTC or NMC, he can always waive it to accept a trade to go elsewhere, especially to a place he likes.

By LAC

June 30, 2008 11:13 PM | Link to this

Right Sam, RAWHIDE RULES !!!!!!!!!

I look VERY FORWARD, there’s THAT word again, to RAWHIDE night at Philips this coming season…

By NASCAR Dave

June 30, 2008 11:20 PM | Link to this

Zhitty Zhitty Bye-Bye

WELL, well, well! I go to New England for a few days and WHAT happens??? They ACTUALLY do something smart!?! They finally got rid of ZHITHEAD!!! What an awful trade that was!!! LOL, Bygones…

What ELSE happens??? The CAP goes up? That’s EXCELLENT news for us, because NOW we HAVE to spend money!!! So SPEND it ALL!!! OK, spend to 50,500,000…

Now they MUST get CAMPBELL!!! They have the MONEY to spend! You MUST OVERPAY!!! 8.5/Per x 5 Years??? Do ANYTHING!!!

I see we lost out on LILES, too… Time to grab MONTADOR/CAMPBELL/ORPIK… BUH-BYE to KLEE, EXELBY…

T. WHITE on 3rd or 4th line might be ok… Maybe TRADE him at the DEADLINE next year???

Time’s up for SLATER, BUH-BYE… He’ll stick around, though, watch… And WHY is THAT??? It’s sure isn’t those numbers he’s puttin up, now IS IT??? LMAO…

We also Need a #1 CENTER!!! ENOUGH is ENOUGH!!! KOVY ain’t playin around here, boys!!! It’s time to STEP UP and SPEND…

But we NEED AT LEAST 2 MORE Scorers!!! — Ina ddition to the #1 CENTER… You got that, DONNIE???

2 D-MEN
1 TOP-LINE CENTER
2 RW

NO!, NO!, NO!, to the following players: BERTUZZI, TUCKER, AVERY… No need for any of those CLASSLESS bums!!!

BRENDAN’s last post scares the hell outta NASCAR Dave, because it IS TRUE… DONNIE already knows who he’s gonna bring here…

DONNIE better NOT SCREW THIS one up, TOO!!!

THIS is the time of year that KILLS us every year, when Donnie brings in these tired stars of yesteryear… END IT!!!

TIME to STEP UP and SPEND… YOU PROMISED. Remember??? TIME to PUT UP or SHUT UP!!! Got It??? GOOD!!!

NUFF SAID.

By Nix

June 30, 2008 11:23 PM | Link to this

Brendan, put me down for Detroit with a NTC.

By Brendan

June 30, 2008 11:33 PM | Link to this

Nix, it’s duly noted. Detroit, with a no trade clause. With Polskidawg changing from Pittsburgh to Boston, the Bruins now have three (3) votes. This also knocks Pittsburgh down to five, from six. And with Nix taking the Red Wings, Detroit now ALSO has five (5) votes.

So, the leader board is DEAD EVEN between Detroit and Pittsburgh as the destination for Hossa.

The tally on NTC’s is now 11-8, in favor of Hossa not getting a coveted “no trade clause.” If Hossa doesn’t get an NTC or an NMC, he can be traded back to Atlanta, at some point in the future. And Hossa will be like Al Pacino, in Godfather III, “Every time I think I’m out, they PULL me back in!!”

By R. Skeen

July 1, 2008 12:22 AM | Link to this

Brendan can you change me to L.A. Kings without NTC

By Brendan

July 1, 2008 12:48 AM | Link to this

Duly noted, R. Skeen. That’s two votes for Los Angeles. Your vote joins J(Z), who also has opted for NO NTC.

By Tony C.

July 1, 2008 7:01 AM | Link to this

I got this from espn’s “rumors” section (and I would like it a lot better if DW at least pretended to “have a plan”):

*The Blue Jackets have between $12M and $15M to spend on free agents and will be looking to spend it on two defensemen and one or two forwards, according to The Columbus Dispatch. “I would expect us to have four or five serious conversations shortly after noon,” Blue Jackets Scott Howson told The Dispatch about the opening of the free agent signing period Tuesday. “I know in my mind what we’re doing. We have a plan we’re ready to execute.”

An skilled, puck-carrying defenseman tops the team’s list with Senators D Wade Redden, Canadiens D Mark Streit and Rangers D Michal Rozsival possibilities, according to The Dispatch.

The paper said Penguins D Brooks Orpik and Senators D Mike Commodore are possibilities for Columbus’ need for a big, physical blue-liner.

The Dispatch listed Canucks C Brendan Morrison, Flames F Kristian Huselius, Coyotes F Radim Vrbata or Stars F Niklas Hagman as possible targets up front.

“There are a lot of guys who can help us,” Blue Jackets coach Ken Hitchcock told The Dispatch. “We don’t need saviors. We just need players who can come in and help us with what’s already in place.”*

See, I would like to point at these guys, previously run by the only other NHL GM than DW who had a shot at the “biggest boob” trophy at the GM meetings as a team in very similar situation as Le Thrash, but reversed, decent-to-very good some nights D and lackluster O. ATL’s basically reversed. But they are a small-market, and it seems like “fiduciary responsibility” isn’t just a phrase in the training manual. I believe that going after some of those guys on that list makes much more sense than going after Campbell and then hoping for the best with what’s left at forward.

Granted I’m not sold on the guy as an “elite” defenseman so I’m still having a hard time wrapping my head around the “he’s worth $8M per” consensus.

By five_hole

July 1, 2008 7:36 AM | Link to this

I see a lot of people blogging here about “this player isn’t worth this much” or “we’re gonna have to overpay to get him”. Y’all may know hockey but apparently don’t understand free market economics. It’s simple: a player is worth what he can command on the market. If Campbell signs a 5 year $50 million dollar contract, then that’s what he’s worth. If said player then “underperforms” by scoring less, a bad plus/minus, etc, the team has the option to waive the player (the team assumes a penalty for issuing the contract in the 1st place). If said player “overperforms” by scoring more, etc, then he’s considered a “bargain”.

Irregardless (I love that word) this is the time when players can establish their true market value.

Next week, we can discuss “balance of trade” - is running a deficit a good or bad thing?

By HookyBob

July 1, 2008 7:38 AM | Link to this

Brenden, I believe Hossa does get a NTC. I’m thinking he really regrets not getting one when he signed with Ottawa several years back.

Well, I’ve got my bottle ready for tonight. Only question left unanswered is “Will I be downing it because I am happy,…or to drown my sorrows?

By Tony C.

July 1, 2008 7:39 AM | Link to this

Another point of view on the Malone deal.

I’d like to hear what yall think of Nik Hagman? I’m kind of surprised Dallas let him go; word was he was requested in the Brad Richards deal, and Dallas refused, coming up with other players to package with Smith.

I’d like to see/hear the following guys are Thrashers tomorrow:

Hainsey, Morrison, Vrbata/Hagman. I’ve got this vision of Morrison centering #17 & Thorburn and it being super successful.

By Sam

July 1, 2008 7:58 AM | Link to this

Tony C, thanks for the link. Some very upset Pens fans to say the least. I love the one about liking the Panthers roster better than Tampa Bay’s. Slightly emotional?? LOL!!!

By Michael Shapiro

July 1, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

TSN is reporting that the Pittsburgh Penguins have signed forward Pascal Dupuis to a three-year deal which will average $1.4-million per year. Good for “chicken legs” (I never felt the way about him as I did about Hossa, and he always gave 100% when he was on the ice).