Ice Man

By Bob

July 24, 2008 8:37 PM | Link to this

Cunneyworth? Good, hopefully he can bring some fresh ideas into this organ-I-zation.

By PJ

July 24, 2008 9:20 PM | Link to this

Geez RStroz…Do you ever read your emails?

Raaaaaaaaaawhide How much loooonger till the season starts? Do you think you can post a countdown to the season opener?

By Rawhide

July 24, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this

PJ - If it’s a countdown clock you want… well, there is one on Maali’s blog.

By PJ

July 24, 2008 9:38 PM | Link to this

77Days?? Ahhhhh!! And posting pictures of “Ice Bunnies” doesn’t nothing to shorten the wait for me. Thanks for the clock.

By Alan

July 24, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this

I’m quite happy with both of these signings, and I remain hopeful for the upcoming season.

It’s still far too premature, but I believe we are heading in the right direction.

By kracker

July 24, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this

This also gives us another pipeline to possibly attracting former players coached by Cunneyworth or who have a favorable opinion of him. To include current or former Buffalo players in particular, I would think. And it puts some good press out there about the organization doing some good things.

Man, I’m pretty pumped right now. Like the players DW has brought in this off season, these three new coaches aren’t old and tired retreads.

By Brendan

July 24, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this

I love the Cunneyworth addition! If we can really use this upcoming season to develop the talent Waddell drafted, then we are headed in the right direction. I understand what the term “rebuilding” means. I know that’s not a popular sentiment. But I don’t really see what other choice they have. And over the longhaul, it will be better to spend, spend, spend when the team is closer to being a viable threat in the playoffs.

Just imagine if we got Tavares. We’d own his rights for eight more years. And JT isn’t going to pull a Josh Childress and go play in Europe, if drafted by Atlanta.

By BG33Brown

July 24, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this

10 months ago we were talking about who we wanted to coach the thrashers….anderson or cunneyworth. Now we have both. I give Anderson mad props for putting his ego aside and putting together a great staff. How many other new HC’s would hire a up and coming “hot” prospect of a coach and put him on their staff-not many.

Is Nelson a defensive coach? If so, it will be interesting to see how anderson and cunneyworth match their lines. The sabres and their affiliates try to put a scorer, pass, and physical player on each line. I love that. Hopefully we do that and end up with a 1st line of kovy-ec-thornburn. I think that is a great line.

I am curious how many other “ex” season ticket holders are thinking about renewing for next year. Personally I am thinking about downgrading to a half season. The reasoning-“I support and want a hockey team in Atlanta, I recognize the need for major management/ownership changes.” What is everyone else thinking?

By Alan

July 24, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this

is Nelson a defensive coach? If so, it will be interesting to see how anderson and cunneyworth match their lines.

He was a defenseman when he played pro, so I imagine that’s where he’ll specialize here. As for how Anderson and Cunneyworth match lines, I think this is going to be something very interesting to observe when pre-season rolls around. I don’t know how Cunneyworth did lines for the Amerks, so I can’t speculate, but if it was the same way Buffalo does up their lines, I expect the Thrashers to at least give it a try to see where it leads.

By ranallo10 (in AT)

July 25, 2008 4:41 AM | Link to this

Though my preference was Sullivan’s defensive wizardry, Cunneyworth is a fine consolation prize as a quality coach to assist Anderson.

Nelson makes sense since he’ll help players learn the defensive role Anderson expects of them, and is yet another familiar face for any Wolves players that make their way to Atlanta’s roster.

Based on his production under their system I can only assume this means Valabik is going to make the roster.

I could’ve done without Steve Weeks, but whatever…I’m sure some locker room people liked him and the consistent coaching for Lehtonen can only help. I hope Hedberg gets the goaltending coach job in two years time.

All-in-all, I’m content on the coaching staff side of things.

By LL

July 25, 2008 5:43 AM | Link to this

Such a positive outlook coming from behind the bench this season. I am excited about the signings of Nelson & Cunneyworth. I am definetly still curios to see what little suprise we may have in store for us yet.There is alot people believing DW is going to pull off a major trade when it gets down to the wire.

Rawhide as always a pleasure!

By Hip Czech

July 25, 2008 8:17 AM | Link to this

Man, getting old…I remember watching Cunneyworth PLAY for the Amerks. Rawhide, it is ‘Amerks’, not ‘Ameriks’…piddly I know, but correct is correct.

The Amerks still have one of the coolest jerseys in hockey IMHO…I ran into a lady wearing one at a game (not a Buffalo game either!) last year while waiting in the eternal concession line (my goodness, how slow can they possibly get working behind the counters at Philips, but I digress).

Back to the Murray thing, how would Murray at 1.5 to 2 Million for one year sound?

By Smitty

July 25, 2008 8:18 AM | Link to this

Randy Cunneyworth should be a good addition. The Sabres have been built mostly from within. They have drafted well and Cunneyworth has helped develop that talent in Rochester. We shall see if he can get the same results from the DW picks.

By GaVaHokie

July 25, 2008 8:20 AM | Link to this

I gotta think that Buffalo dropping Rochester as it’s farm team “swung the door” wide open for us to grab Cunneyworth. This is HUGE news!

Cunneyworth is arguably a better youth developer than Anderson. This team will be very well coached.

Anderson the Motivator, and Cunneyworth the Developer… great stuff.

By Rawhide

July 25, 2008 8:48 AM | Link to this

Hip Czech - Correction so noted and logged!

Smitty - If he can get the same results, we should be just fine!

LL - Pleasure is all mine, I assure you.

Seems like everyone is pleased with the two new coaches. This is very good!

By Toby

July 25, 2008 8:57 AM | Link to this

Ex-Whalers = Awesome coaches : )

By ranallo10 (in AT)

July 25, 2008 9:08 AM | Link to this

how would Murray at 1.5 to 2 Million for one year sound?

Not worth it, in my opinion. As I said on the [last blog] http://www.ajc.com/blogs/content/shared-blogs/ajc/thrashersfans/entries/2008/07/22/mccrimmon_wings.html#comment-100647503) there is barely any room on the roster as it is currently, and a 35 year old player (even Murray) is no longer needed at this point in the franchises growth. His production would be helpful, but it wouldn’t be enough to repair the possible development his arrival would impede.

Right now Sterling and Little might be fighting for the only offensive position available for a rookie, as the rest of the roster is filled with players that have more NHL experience. Unless a trade/waive occurs, I think Little will be the only injection of youth offensively…which totally sucks in my opinion. I’d love to see Machacek, Holzapfel, Esposito and Sterling lining up offensively…but we don’t have the roster space.

So I politely say “no” to Murray, even at a $1M contract. If by acquiring Murray it sparks a departure of a few offensive talents (freeing up roster space), then I might rethink the situation.

By Jim

July 25, 2008 9:27 AM | Link to this

Cunneyworth and Anderson appear to have similar philosophies- control the puck and give D-men freedom to move up offensively. With the D additions of Hainsey, Bogo, Valabik we should be in good shape for the season. Great to see a new approach to the game versus the dump and chase, form the box around the goalie style of Fraser and Hartley. Bring on the game!!!!

By A$G

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

We won’t spend any money on this team. We don’t care about the fans.

BUY MORE TICKETS!

By Paul

July 25, 2008 9:35 AM | Link to this

It wasn’t that long ago that the mood here was pretty low. No, head coach, unsigned players and little respect from the rest of the league.

I know the season hasn’t started but I like how things have taken place. The pieces are coming into place for a good season and even better seasons down the road.

I like the idea of growing talent from within. I don’t know about you guys but I’m impressed with the decisions made by D.W. (yes I said it) and Coach Anderson. I just hope that we can keep Kovy.

By Hip Czech

July 25, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this

Ranallo, I agree for the most part. Though one more RW sure wouldn’t hurt and Murray could come cheap, I don’t know if I am thrilled with a 35 year old.

Unless of course there is some sort of deal that could be done to ship out White and/or Slater & Sterling & a pick or two for a decent young center, then maybe Murray might not be a bad idea.

By ben

July 25, 2008 9:51 AM | Link to this

these moves may well be very good. they might signify honest to god rebuilding. i just hope kovy signs on and buys what d-wad is selling.

By Toby

July 25, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this

I do believe things are falling into place nicely, but we still need a scorer. Like last year, teams will realize: shut down Kovy and win.

By Rawhide

July 25, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this

Jim & Paul - Welcome to you both…I don’t think I’ve seen you around before. Nice observations as well.

Toby - Same to you…are you from Hartford?

ben - yeah…I think we are seeing a true re-building effort, and in a good way. I don’t think people have an issue with that…as long as it is a new approach and an abandonment of what has failed.

So far, I like what I see. Hopefully we’ll see more good things.

ranallo - How’s life in Euroland?

By Kovy

July 25, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this

Not buying it. Buying what? They have nothing to sell. I will be on the first plane out. Just a matter of time. The plane will land were there is a REAL team, REAL first line center and playoff hockey!!

By Alan

July 25, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this

Zhitnik signs in Russia. Big surprise, right?

Defender Alexey Zhitnik has put the signature under the contract with Moscow “Dynamo”, on it to the correspondent of our site has informed a source in a management динамовского club. It is planned that the defender will begin trainings with “Dynamo” in the near future.

By A$G

July 25, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

Yea thats it. We are rebuilding. That sounds good. Nevermind the fact that we said goodbye to our best player and signed no one of any calibre during the past two off seasons. Yea thats it. we are rebuilding. Building a winner! We have a five year plan! We have finally turned the corner.

NOW GO BUY MORE TICKETS YOU STUPID FOOLS!!

By ranallo10 (in AT)

July 25, 2008 10:39 AM | Link to this

RH — Euroland is great, now I just need to fully secure a Euroland job … that international scouting director position you offered is looking really good right about now!

How about those opening games in Stockholm and Prague?? I might try to make a Prague game, but that all depends on the work situation.

Keep Philips intact while I’m gone, don’t let dj and my 204 neighbors get TOO wild (yes, I’m looking at you Olivia!).

By Jenny H

July 25, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this

You know what I love? Board trolls. They add so much to the discussion, really.

But seriously. With this revamped coaching team, I’m really interested to see what happens. I would have also been interested to see how some of the players that we’ve now moved would have faired. Holik, Hossa (okay, he moved himself). Has Zhitnik’s contract been bought out yet?

Holik and Zhitnik were undeniably good, sturdy players for this team a some point. A REAL change might have been the spark they needed to get back up to where they once were. I mean, maybe. It would have been interesting to watch, if not necessarily satisfying.

On a side note, I hope the beat writing improves by the time the season starts. I really hate having to suss out the offseason news myself. Thanks for helping out on that front, Rawhide. I defended you during the season when some guy said you were being too much of a fan (since you ARE the fan blogger), but since the season ended, you’ve really stepped up your game in the absense of Craig, or a reliable replacement. (This isn’t necessarily a stab at MK. I’m sure there’s something going on, because a new writer doesn’t just abandon the beat for 2 weeks.)

Er…the end.

By Alan

July 25, 2008 11:11 AM | Link to this

Has Zhitnik’s contract been bought out yet?

Long time ago. He just signed in Russia.

I’m sure there’s something going on, because a new writer doesn’t just abandon the beat for 2 weeks.

I’m not sure, but I think it’s his vacation. :)

By Toby

July 25, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this

RH Hey bud…Yeah I’m from Hartford. It was nice adding Southeast Div champs to my NHL teams resume. My only other “yay” was 86-87 Adams Division champs.

Jenny Yeah Zhit is gone. I couldn’t agree more. I’m having to go to hard to find websites to get any news. Craig did a great job and I like reading RH’s stuff, but the news I get from any AJC writer is old and/or puff pieces. No news on what DW is doing at the cap minimum, no news on what DW is planning on doing next, and no news on why NOBODY wants to play for our crappy ownership group.

By NASCAR Dave

July 25, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this

RAWHIDE - I’m checking in this morning from the Marriott in Downtown Indianapolis - FREE Internet! Anyways, believe it or not, I actually have something positive to say today…

I am very happy at the new Coach signings… CUNNEYWORTH and NELSON are definitely 2 very good choices for Assistants, and it appears Donnie is NOT trying to micromanage ANDERSON, allowing ANDERSON control of personnel decisions, so this is definitely a good thing…

I’m not sure, but I think it’s his vacation. :)

ALAN - That is correct, brother. MIKE KNOBLER has been on Vacation. He told me that via Email…

RH — Euroland is great, now I just need to fully secure a Euroland job … that international scouting director position you offered is looking really good right about now!

Hi Rannallo, what are you doing in Europe??? Did you give up on your country??? Why have you fled your homeland??? Are you in hiding from the FBI or something??? Just Kidding… LOL.

Since we’re not going to get KOVY a #1 Center, I would suggest BRYAN LITTLE be the #1, NOT CHRISTENSEN, as many other bloggers had previously suggested… CHRISTENSEN is just not #1 Material, while LITTLE has the Potential to be a #1…

And that’s all I have to say about that…

By ranallo10 (in AT)

July 25, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this

NASCAR Dave — I moved to Euroland to escape the draft…luckily the draft brought us Bogosian so now I’m kinda stuck here! :-)

Seriously though, moved for meine Freundin (Ms. Euroland).

I’ll miss seeing the Thrashers live but I still have the internet, these boards, and the Vienna Capitals to appease (somewhat) my live hockey addiction!!! Afterall, I live in the hockey hotbed of Austria, home of Thomas Vanek and…….um……HOME OF THOMAS VANEK!

Oh, Little is my selection for Kovalchuk’s center, for potential sake alone. However, I would be fine with Christensen and Armstrong on Kovalchuk’s line, if the lines are composed for depth. As I said before though, I’ll wait on my line preferences until training camp weeds out the roster.

By Alan

July 25, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this

Dave - Good to see you’re doing well. I hear Indy is actually a very nice city, though I’ve only ever been there once. The car my parents were driving was egged, though. Good thing it was a rental.

Great to see some positive words from you about the coaching situation. It’s very exciting, I think, to have both Cunneyworth and Anderson here, and it will be both interesting and fun to see how well this team comes together this year with the coaches we have.

I’m torn on Weeks, but I’m not sure there’s anyone better out there to coach goal. Hasek? I mean, he just retired from the Wings, and probably isn’t looking for a any sort of gig at all right now. I’d like to believe if we could lure Nurminen away from Finland to coach goal for us, that would be an awesome thing to behold. Maybe if Hedberg retires with us, we can get him to coach goal? Otherwise, I think we’re fine with what we have.

By A$G

July 25, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this

Thanks for the love Jenny!

OK I will add something serious to the discussion.

The team has made a few minor moves that add up to nothing.

One major move with a new coach.. but he has no NHL experience and nothing to work with.

I predicted this last spring. Those blogs would have appeared as though I was negative and not contributing to the discussion, when they were actually very insightfull as to what the team would do in the off season. That was when I finally had to accept the fact that the owners plan is to spend the least amount they can and fill the roster with 3rd and 4th line players. I think the owners believe spending money on players won’t add enough in ticket sales to justify the cost. They made one try at the “making money on the playoffs” angle but only had one home game so that didn’t pan out for them. I believe the only way this situation will change is if ticket sales drop SO LOW that they lose more money with this low expense plan. Then the owners will change the plan or sell the team. I have no concerns about the NHL leaving Atlanta because the NHL is smart enough to keep a team in the 8th largest TV market in the country. I believe that as a Thrashers fan (assuming one would like to attend a Thrasher game in the 2nd or 3rd round of the playoffs) the best thing I can do for hockey in Atlanta is to not buy tickest and support the current A$G plan for the team. I would like to see the Thrashers winning as much as anyone. REBUILD….you don’t rebuild with the same GM that built you nothing in his first two five year plans!!

By Mark

July 25, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this

I can’t say that I understand the optimism of some people on this board. Do you really think that this team has improved over last season? Think about it this way:

Hossa vs. Willaims = Downgrade Reasoner vs. Holik = Downgrade Hainsey vs Zhitnik = Upgrade Bogosian vs. McCarthy = ??? (I’d like to think this is an upgrade but going from Juniors to the NHL as an 18 yr old is huge. He may not even make the team out of camp. Valibik may be an upgrade but he has little offensive upside to his game. Without Bogosian contributing you are relying on Hainsey and Enstrom to provide all the offense from the back end. Ideally you need one more puck mover.)

So, in short, our defense should be better if Bogosian can make the team and contribute. Our offense should be worse though unless we get significant growth and contributions from Little and Sterling. We still do not have a #1 center to play with Kovy although I think Williams might serve well as the play-maker from the opposite wing. Lastly, we have a coaching staff that has zero NHL coaching experience. Coaching in the NHL is far different than coaching in the AHL and there have been many coaches that made that move from the minors to pro only to fail. It would be nice if one the assistants at least had NHL coaching experience. I wish them luck though.

Anyway, I really do not see how this team has improved. If there is any improvement this season it will be due to the development of the younger players and that is a lot to bank on.

By Rawhide

July 25, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this

Jenny H - Thanks for the backing and it’s nice to have you along…yeah, it’s hard to believe that a fan blogger would actually act like…well… a fan!

NASCAR Dave - Bring me back an autographed Payton Manning helmet!

ranallo in Euroland - Well, I did meet the lovely young lady when she was over here last winter…I can see why you would travel half a world away for her.

Toby - no news on why NOBODY wants to play for our crappy ownership group.

Some might say you explained why some might not want to play here in your own comment there:o)

Mark - I agree with you regarding Hainsey being an upgrade from Zhit and Bogosian replacing Mac is a “???”…although I think he couldn’t do worse than his 1g, 6a -23 in 55 games last year.

But where I disagree with your assessment is this…I see Williams replacing Recchi…similar numbers but 12 years younger. I see Reasoner replacing Holik…again, similar numbers but we gain 6 years of age plus the fact that Reasoner sits in the penalty box for fewer minutes than Holik did while here.

Now…where you ARE correct, IMHO, is replacing Hossa…that has not been done yet. And while I do place myself in the “cautiously optimistic” catagory…I’m not even entertaining the thought that this is a playoff-bound team unless that happens.

All Else - as for DW…I have to say…even though I have been very critical of him of late, especially at the end of last year, I like the moves the team has made this off-season. There is still MUCH to be done if this team is going to have any prayer to contend for the playoffs this coming season…but the recent moves… behind the bench, waiving Zhit, drafting ZB, acquiring Hainsy & JW, signing Kari to a one-year deal, retaining the services of Moose…these are all positive moves that provide a glimer of hope as we move forward.

Again, I list myself as “cautiously optimistic”.

Now, as for Zhitnik signing in Russia…good for him. I know things went sour last season here for him, but from everything I heard about the guy personally, he seemed like a good guy. So I wish him nothing but the best!

By A$G

July 25, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this

Mark……….don’t bring us down with reality. Fantasy is much more exciting.

Someone said “they hope Kovalchuk buys in to it”

From April 08

“It’s six years here now and nothing really changed,” Kovalchuk said on Sunday. “Hopefully we can do some moves this summer.”

Last summer, Kovalchuk made one request to Thrashers general manager Don Waddell.

Get me a center

Duh…………nothing has really changed Duh…………no moves this summer Duh…………no new center

Duh………I think Kovalchuk will be so happy he will stay in Atlanta.

Mark…most people can’t deal with the fact that our team is the joke of the NHL.

To distract them from reality they have meaningful discussions about who will be Kovy’s center. While they look at the Thrashers roster trying to figure this out they do not realize that Kovy is looking at other teams rosters trying to figure this out.

By Toby

July 25, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this

RH Yeah…good call. I just see this problem as REAL bad and getting worse. First Campbell and Boyle and then the Childress story. They now really have a bad rep. and players are rejecting $$ to play for either team.

By A$G

July 25, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this

Rawhide………What is a fan?……someone that buys into a bunch of lies and supports an ownership group that does not care about the fans?

Am I not a fan if I have the ability to see what A$G spends on player salaries vs other teams and then compare that to ticket prices vs other teams? Maybe I am just a fan that can do the math.

By Jenny H

July 25, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this

You know, I have friends who are sports fans, fans of TV shows, fans of comic books…and most of them refuse to get online and read Boards because they hate it when they read other “Boardies” rant about how they would do it better. They’d draft this kid, trade that one, or they wouldn’t have effed with the Spiderman story line, they wouldn’t have killed off so and so on Buffy, whatever. My friends argue “well, if you could do it better, why don’t you? That’s right, you can’t.” A weak argument, to be sure, but one that I often don’t disagree with.

Now, I lurk on this Board regularly, and very rarely post (maybe once every 6-8 months). I’ve found that my fellow Thrashers fans can speak to coaching decisions, ownership decisions, and general mismanagement knowledgably and respectfully, with a healthy dose of venom where venom should be injected.

So my questions is this: if your #1 player hands down, the player who arguably fills at least half the seats of Philips arena single-handedly, if that player has one request, and that request is for a center of his own caliber, a center who could make that line nearly unbeatable, how on earth can you say no? How can you turn the other cheek? If Kovy walks in…a year?…I’d be truly worried for this franchise. I mean, I’m already worried for this franchise, but I’d be buying a black veil, you know what I’m saying? We lost Hossa, dropped Zhitnik, Holik…I know we’ve already used up some of that money, but seriously? How have we not gotten a #1 center yet? How is that possible? I know our defense was terrible this year, I know that, and as a team, defense should have been our number one priority in the off-season. But as a business, I don’t see how ASG thinks it has any other option, because I literally don’t think the franchise could survive the loss of Kovy. You’ve got your die hard hockey fans, but they won’t fill seats alone, and watching someone the Thrashers’ have basically raised from NHL birth walk out, it’d be a slap in the face to everyone, and a serious wake up call about the lack of loyalty in professional sports (both on the ice and in the office). And I know that professional sports are all about players or teams trading up for the win, but look at Crosby, look at Mario Lemeux, hell, look at Ovechkin. These are players that made career choices to stay with their team. I just don’t think Kovy would even consider making deals like Ovechkin’s or Crosby’s if we can’t provide him someone worth playing with.

And the reason I mentioned the Board thing is because I read here often how ranallo would do this or Dave would do that, or rstroz, etc, etc. And that’s the kind of talk that my friends hate to read. But I have to say, if you have an entire Board of people, not even disagreeing, as Board contributors tend to do, and you have other writers, Schultz and Bradley, and I’m sure plenty of others in other towns, if everyone is saying the same thing, how are they wrong?

And the simple answer is that they’re not. And Don Waddell and the rest of ASG, who have millions to throw at people, are doing bad business.

This was supposed to have a question, but it turned into a straight up rant instead. Sorry.

By HSBC Arena

July 25, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this

Hello from Buffalo. I am just here to check out your Cunneyworth coverage and if you guys had anything additional to add. We are definitely mad about this.

I understand having to change from Rochester to Portland ($ and fighting), but losing Cunney is going to kill us and I don’t think I like this collateral damage. I can’t believe they didn’t work out his contract to prevent this.

One thing you guys don’t realize is that he developed all the talent that got us to back-to-back EC Finals. He’s why we’ve been able to roll 4 lines these last couple years. Cunney was given the keys to the car there too. Regier and Ruff gave him complete autonomy to decide which players moved up to Buffalo, not the other way around like every other farm team. That was huge.

I also am looking at your restricted free agents (the real way we tell who has a good farm) and I am surprised at how many you have. That is believed to have played a big role in attracting a coach like Cunney to your team.

I still will root for Cunney even though he is not with the Sabres so good luck and nice job on stealing our coach you #$@*&%.

By Alan

July 25, 2008 1:18 PM | Link to this

A fan is what you make of it. I’m a fan, and while I don’t always support the decisions of management or ownership, I still support the team. You may be a fan and protest the organization by not attending any games, and that’s fine. I may be a fan and choose to attend many games, and that’s fine too. Voice your disagreement vocally in the crowd or silently at home, but it’s being voiced nonetheless, am I right?

You are no more or no less of a fan than anyone else here. There is no “world’s biggest fan.” There is no one fan who is a smarter fan than the other, because we’re all undoubtedly posting on this blog because we like the Thrashers, and in a broader sense, like the sport of hockey itself. That’s what matters here the most.

By el bill

July 25, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this

Great to see the positive feedback on the Cunneyworth hire. It was always interesting how the Sabres would bring up guys with little NHL experience, and they’d be plugged right in on the PP and with significant ice time – and glad to hear he had lots to do with it.

By Rawhide

July 25, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this

A$G - I would never question your “fanhood” :o)

Jenny H - I’m glad we lured you out of the the lurking shadows! To your point…I have to agree with you regarding Kovy and his open desire to have a true #1 center brought in for his line. Truth be told though, UFA centers were not as abundant as blueliners this summer, that’s why I look for something to happen via a trade. You are right that he needs to be taken seriously in his request.

HSBC Arena - We’ll try to take good care of Cunney for you!

By J(Z)

July 25, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this

What’s our current salary cap number at? I’ve been out of the loop for a while, and with most sites blocked I can’t look for myself. I’m assuming we’re still not really close to the floor?

By A$G

July 25, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this

Alan…… I agree. I just want to see major change. I believe empty seats is the fastes way to that change.

Jenny….. good rant! Ya I think Kovy made himself pretty clear. Ya Kovy will be the bellweather for the future with A$G owning the Thrashers. I hate to be a pessimist (really I do. I actually think the economy is not that bad) but I think the black veil days are here. The A$G just does not seem to really care about building a competitive team.

Rawhide……… No offense intended. I just don’t see much hope under the current situation.

By Corey

July 25, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

dont see much hope under current situation… We have one of the best players in the NHL, maybe the best if his team backed him. We have some of the best prospects in the NHL in Bogo, Toby, Little, and Andrej… and we have a great looking new coaching staff… Its 77 days until we drop the puck… and as much as the national media is bad mouthing us, we still have a lot of hope… It’s hard to judge players who have not been in a system with a coach yet. Its a huge part of how a team plays and thinks… If anderson is the motivator and the guy that players want to play for, I would imagine we would be seeing a different brand of hockey… a hockey where the team plays their heart out for eachother… I know its hard to get over last year, but you can’t say there is no hope…

By Sara

July 25, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

Rawhide is right about centers this year - the FA pool blew. There were some nice names traded but for sure we had no shot at Jokinen and it’s hard to know if we could have had a dog in the Cammelleri fight.

The problem with trading though, is you have to give up something good to get something good (usually, unless you’re Philly but that’s a whole ‘nother story). If we want a top center, we are going to have to pay for a top center and that price might be too painful. If someone wants Pavs AND Enstrom AND a draft pick plus another roster player like Perrin or Slater for just one C in return, do you make that deal? (The correct answer btw is HE-double hockey sticks NO.) It’s too many pieces to give up. Don used to get screwed that way before when Kovy and Dany were both here. He tried to work a trade and all anyone every wanted in return was Kovy or Dany. Well…duh.

In reality, the time to deal with this was LAST year when Gomez, Drury, and Briere were ALL on the market. And what did ASG do? Made like Wal-Mart and rolled-back payroll. If we had skipped White and spent nearly to the cap, we could have had $8M to throw at a center. And last year was coming off the best year in team history - Division Title, playoff berth, Kovy and Hossa still both here. Lot’s to recommend to players. And we got….White.

I’m not holding my breath for another C to get brought it here any time soon - there are no guarantees one will become available in the first place. So you better hope Little and/or Christensen can step up to the plate (and don’t think for a second that if they do Kovy won’t be pleased - he doesn’t care who it is as long as they get the job done).

J(Z) best as I can figure the team is technically just under the cap floor. Waddell said something about Bogosian being able to make $4M in salary and bonuses next season but the CBA rules do not support that. It’s at $37.819 right now with 13 forwards, 5 d, and 2 goalies and $.1M of bonus cushion for Enstrom. Valabik is a cap hit of $.858M, Bogo at best is $.875M salary + $.850M bonuses, which leaves the team $.298M under the floor. and $1M of the salary is still based on Enstrom and Bogosian making all their bonuses, which could or could not happen.

So somebody else has to get signed to make this work and it needs to be at least a $2M contract IMO to give some pad over the floor.

By volgrad1985

July 25, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this

We are one of 30 NHL teams. Of the other 29 teams, how many truly have a real bonafide number 1 center that Kovy (and everyone else) is clamoring for?? Let’s see, Brindamour, Crosby, Malkin, Getzlaf, Gomez, Drury, Jokinen, Kopitar, Lecavilier, Linden, Marleau, Morrison, Richards, Sakic, Savard, Sedin, Spezza, Sundin, Toews, Thorton, and Zetterberg.

That’s 20 players in the entire league on 19 teams that you can reasonably consider to be high quality, honest to goodness, number 1 centers.

How many teams would realistically part with any of those above, knowing that a very few of them could be had via UFA this year? Not too many, if any at all! And to get any of them via trade, who would we have to give away, knowing that we would be dealing not from the position of strenth in the process??

No, I’m not going to criticize the Thrashers from picking up one of the “true number 1 centers” for Kovy. It is an unrealistic proposition to expect one. Might Kovy decide to take his puck and go elsewhere?? Maybe. But if we can concentrate on building from within, and he can envision it, and we demonstrate steady increases of success this and the following years, and he realizes that at his young age, he still has time and is about to be a part of something big here, then maybe, just maybe, everything will turn out the way it’s supposed to.

I’m not preaching “blind faith” in DW or the ASG, or anyone else, for that matter. However, I do believe things are being done the right way now (for whatever reason), and I support the direction this team is taking now.

By Rawhide

July 25, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this

A$G - No offense taken, I assure you!

Now…everyone else, for what it’s worth, Burnside has posted his Power Rankings. I’ll give ya all 5 guesses as to where he puts the Thrashers.

By Alan

July 25, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this

Good ol’ Burnside. We make improvements on defense while Tampa takes our discard, as well as a bunch of other forwards… while becoming much weaker on D… and they’re apparently in line to make the playoffs? I scoff at that notion, and wish to sample whatever Burnside is smoking.

By Sara

July 25, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this

You know, Waddell might really be on to something about Burnside having some personal vendetta against him or something. Who in their right minds ranks FLA that high? They just gave away their best player, their best d-man is threatening to run away after next season, and they did nothing to improve this off-season. Are you kidding me? Whatever - Burnsie can just eat crow later. ;)

By Nikita

July 25, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this

With all due respect, Burnside appears to be on crack. The Panthers suck, for starters. So do the Leafs. Neither team really made any impressive moves this offseason, either. And I really don’t know how Tampa is going to do, but my guess would be that we’ll see them function like the maginot line — any team that gets behind the offense can just waltz the puck into net. Further, I don’t see how the Thrashers can be ranked dead last when a team that’s comparable in lineup and philosophy is so much higher.

By Corey

July 25, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this

I hope this young team takes this the right way and Anderson uses it as motivation… just post all these “thrashers worst team in the league” around the locker room… I would love to get behind this team this fall and surprise everyone…

By Brendan

July 25, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this

“Rebuilding” is not where this team should be, in Season Nine. No argument there. Waddell should not be in charge of the rebuilding; he had his shot. No argument there. The ASG are bad at making sports decisions. No argument there. You’ve seen the results. And the inexplicable procrastination on the contracts of “the Joshes,” Kari Lehtonen and even naming a Head Coach for the fired Bob Hartley, last October.

Who “accuses” the ASG of being proactive? Or being “visionaries” of the NBA or NHL? Not me. From my perspective, Billy Knight and Don Waddell happened on THEIR WATCH. Even if they inherited them. They didn’t correct the situation. There’s just no running away from that.

Okay. That part is all said and done. As far as the “rebuilding” effort has gone, it hasn’t gone too badly. Stop. It really hasn’t.

Was re-signing Moose a “boneheaded” decision? No, not really. It gives us options in net. Hedberg tossed us a bone. There’s a reason why he’s won the “Teammate’s Teammate Award” every year he’s been here. Was drafting Zach Bogosian an act of neolithic incompetence? Hardly. Accepting the offers that Waddell fielded for the #3 overall pick might have been. Was the selection of Leveille, at #29, “inexcuseable?” Before you say, “Yes, it was.” The CCHA, and Michigan State, have a decent track record for developing NHL talent. We simply cannot know if Leveille is or isn’t a bust just yet. Personally, not to offend Jenny H., I would have preferred to have seen Deschamps, O’Dell, or McRae, as the Center taken at #29. But I’m hardly a GM, with the benefit of a scouting staff, and years of NHL experience.

Before we leave the draft entirely, Zach Redmond and Nicolas Lasu might be latter-round gems. It’s hard to know if Waddell is as horrendous at drafting as many of us think he is … unless his draft picks actually get a chance to develop at the NHL level. And they can’t really do that … at 5 minutes a game. (Think Braydon Coburn.)

Okay … moving right along … what about Marty Reasoner? He’s not the worst player in the league. And he may not be here beyond this season. Same deal with Jason Williams. They’re getting a “try out” with us. They may work out. They may not. This is a rebuilding campaign, with some “bandaids.” No one should expect us to be playoff-bound. The real goal is to get John Tavares, while developing the drafted talent in the pipeline.

That’s the optimism you see. I understand the frustration. We ought to be, at this point, knocking on the door of the Stanley Cup, if we’d been built properly. Bygones. That ship has sailed. The reality is … it didn’t work. The Rules of Accountability say that Don Waddell should be fired. That isn’t going to happen. His retention as GM is an “indefensible” sports-decision, made by hoodwinked ownership. But as long as Waddell improves, and rebuilds correctly this time, I have to give him credit when he gets something right. Otherwise, I’m just a “hater” and a “basher,” incapable of any objectivity.

Naming Cunneyworth as Assistant Coach to help develop the young talent … is a good move. Bringing in John Anderson, to do likewise, was the best available, realistic option the Thrashers had. Ron Wilson wasn’t coming here. Let’s be honest about that. We had no shot at him. Bringing in another familiar face, like Nelson, to assist Anderson, is a good move; it’s at least “decent.” Waddell does get some things right.

I agree that this team isn’t going to relocate. Not for another 12 years, at a minimum. Barring something truly unforeseen. I hope the ASG does sell the team to a local interest. And I hope the local interest CARES about hockey—at least enough to hold GM’s and Coaches accountable for the results of the standings. That our team is in the midst of a “guinea pig experiment” … is rather unfortunate for us. But if the experiment actually worked, how can I complain? If in 2011, this team is loaded with Bogosian, Tavares, Little, and Coburn, Heatley-type draft picks, due to years of futility, and is sold to someone who CARES, and who will then appoint the necessary GM to take it to the NEXT LEVEL, and so forth … then GREAT. Do we think we’re going to win a Stanley Cup before 2011? Realistically?? Allright then. Once this team is in position to contend, Tier I free agents will CALL US. Once this team has COMMITTED, INTELLIGENT OWNERSHIP, players will flock to us, believing that we have a chance to bring home the Cup. Right now, we’re a joke. No argument. But we can’t get to the top of the ladder without climbing the rungs. Tampa rebuilt a few times before they won the Cup. As did Anaheim, another expansion team of the early 90’s era.

By HSBC Arena

July 25, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

Thrasher fans I wouldn’t get too worked up over what Burnside said. They are preseason rankings and I would rather be Atlanta at number 15 then Toronto at number 13 or Florida at number 12. How Tampa is ranked higher than the Sabres I do not understand either.

You can pick up Hainsey for $4m or you can be like the Leafs and get Fingered for $4m, which would you choose? On that note, don’t lose any sleep about losing the Campbell sweepstakes. Campbell is being gauged on his high production during our last couple years. But look what happened to Vanek’s production after his big contract. The only reason we overpaid for him was because that jerk from Edmonton drove up the price. You will see a drop in Campbell’s production too. Don’t forget that GWG that knocked SJ out of the playoffs, yeah, you know who was sitting in the sin bin. I will say if there are 2 teams that have a ton of restricted free agents that could use a big name like Campbell it is Chicago and Atlanta so maybe it was good you tried to get him. Streit looked like the best deal but he got a lot of his points playing rw so Hainsey might turn out to be the best money value.

I will say some things though. Any team can make the playoffs and number 1 seeds get knocked off all the time. So for the poster Brandon to say in July that your goal is to get John Tavares and come in last place when he can turn out to be Patrick Kane or Alexander Daigle is something you would never hear up here.

I also don’t understand why your blog is so focused on this number 1 center for Kovalchuk. Ovechkin has Federov, Kozlov and Nylander to work with. Not exactly some of the great 1-2 punches the league has seen like a Gretzky-Messier or Lemieux-Francis combos (or Sakic-Forseberg/young Federov-Yzerman) in the last 30 years. I understand it is an issue but not to the degree that you make it your mantra here.

Finally if you boycott your games like you say you will, that will give your team a black eye more than anything your management has done and will really lead to a star player not wanting to play in an empty building and play in another market. What do you think goes through a star player’s mind when he skates out to an empty arena or when another team comes to town and sees so many empty seats. They aren’t thinking about management. They are thinking they would never want to have that be their home ice advantage. Thoughts like that are why towns like Calgary and Buffalo have sellouts and Nashville and Atlanta are in the relocation rumors.

By Corey

July 25, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

The number one center for Kovy is talked about so much because he asked for one… and we figure thats just a kick in the face not to try to get one while his contract year is coming up…

I think we are in a better position than most think we are in though.

I’ll be at most ever game I can get to this year… I just hope I’m having fun…

By Hockey Biltong

July 25, 2008 4:27 PM | Link to this

Team chemistry is what will propel the Thrash forward this year. Last year, when you could tell they would suck the minute the puck dropped, will change to,’holy c#@p’, look at the effort this team is putting out, to get the puck and put it in the net. The players will respond in a much more positive way on ice and off. They may even play above their level because of the new coaches.

When you are down as a team, the ability and motivation to compete at the highest level can be very evasive. But when you think you have even the smallest chance, you fight like crazy for that win.Good coaching and players with strong hearts will persevere over talent with bad attitude any day of the week…..

By HSBC Arena

July 25, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this

Corey we have plenty of hockey coverage up here and so I know that it was Hossa that asked about Chris Drury not Kovalchuk.

And I don’t buy that as the excuse that Hossa left town because he was playing with Sidney Crosby, not a bad number 1 center to play with, and still took a paycut to go play with Detroit who he said he was going to sign with anyway.

So if Sidney Crosby wasn’t good enough of a number 1 center than who is I guess is my point. If I was you guys I would look more at Ovechkin than Hossa as to what Kovalchuk might do.

Look if Hossa did that to us I would be mad too. Think how Pittsburgh feels. They might not get back to the finals without him. At least you get to get better without him as hard as he is to replace.

By Corey

July 25, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this

Hossa left to win the cup… Kovy want’s a number one center, and not specifically Chris Drury. I don’t even remember Hossa commenting on Drury, but I’m sure it could have happened.

And Ovechkin is playing for a rising franchise not a falling one right now… I liked to see him settling there, it shows more loyalty to a team. I hope we can push Kovy to do the same.

By Corey

July 25, 2008 5:04 PM | Link to this

And pittsburgh took him knowing he was probably going to leave/ they couldn’t afford him long term. So they shouldn’t feel too bad, except for the fact that he went to the team that won the cup…

By glovesave29

July 25, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this

Wow, come back from a week’s vacation and there is good news for a change on the Trashers front. Great additions…I have just one question - does anyone know if JA was given the freedom to name his own staff, or was it made for him? I am hoping it is the former, as it takes some real guts to tab a AC with aspirations to be a HC and soon. Shows that Anderson is a confident and resourceful guy and will do what it takes to win.

I am still a bit skeptical on the team…but one never knows the chemistry that can evolve. We are short on talent, but who knows…hope springs eternal. And if we tank it, well then hello Jon Tavares.

By glovesave29

July 25, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this

What I left off was to say is that anything is possible in a world where Miley Cyrus can sell tens of millions of CD’s….

By Lanny McDonald

July 25, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this

What I left off was to say is that anything is possible in a world where Miley Cyrus can sell tens of millions of CD’s….

Very true, my friend. Let’s take a poll - Which will happen first? Miley Cyrus’s musical career ends, or the Thrashers win the Stanley Cup?

This is a tough question - I am still thinking about my answer.

By WW5

July 25, 2008 5:50 PM | Link to this

did they get a shrink for the headcase goalie yet

By Brendan

July 25, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this

Kari doesn’t need therapy so much as he needs a solid core blueline in front of him. He’s not a bad goalie. Just don’t start him 8 games in-a-row. Backups exist for a reason.

By glovesave29

July 25, 2008 6:08 PM | Link to this

Lanny - first of all, thanks for the goal against Roy in 89 that gave us the Cup. I punched a hole in my ceiling that night pumping my fist in the air and jumping on the furniture in my apartment.

Unfortunately, Miley has Disney behind her and we have the ASG. I think that answers your question right there.

By Alan

July 25, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this

Brendan - I would agree with you for the most part. Maybe Kari wouldn’t need to lean on a backup so much if we had a solid blue line in front of him, though.

Just something to consider.

By kracker

July 25, 2008 6:27 PM | Link to this

HSBC Arena Thanks so much for your comments, we need more posivite thoughts around here.

Last season I was a member of the, as we called it, the “Operation Stamkos” group when it became apparent that this dysfunctional group was just that: messed up and had no shot to keep up in the PO chase. Those 4 games at the TD were so abysmal that after going from tied for the division to several points out in 4 games, some of us packed it in and wanted to go for the No. 1 pick.

We didn’t get the first pick but I do think we may have gotten the real difference maker of this heavy draft. Bogo is scary good and I can’t believe we have him….he is Kovalchuk good.

That said, I want no part of an “Op Tavares” season. There’s no gaurantees you will get who you try to tank for and this franchise, the fans and Kovy really needs to win some games and feel good about hockey in Atlanta. With the offseason moves we have made, I am cautiously optomistic about contending for the PO…..so check back later.

By Lanny McDonald

July 25, 2008 6:35 PM | Link to this

glovesave29 - Thanks, no problem. I like the Anderson signing because he can potentially have as good of a mustache as me, or possibly even better. I think if the Thrashers had more mustaches on their team, it might change things a bit. Jeff Odgers had a pretty good one for awhile there, but we definitely now need more mustaches in Blueland.

By glovesave29

July 25, 2008 7:16 PM | Link to this

Hey Lanny….that’s better than the “Believe in Blueland” tag line - from now on, we wear “The ‘stache for the Thrash”

By Sage of Bluesland

July 25, 2008 7:55 PM | Link to this

My, My, My…The pasture is full these days…

By Brendan

July 25, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this

Mats Sundin has reportedly said he’ll make his decision in the early portion of August. Maybe even August 1st. Vancouver’s reported offer is 2-years/$20 million.

Chime in … if you think he’d DECLINE that offer?

Go!

By glovesave29

July 25, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this

It is hard to get into the mind of someone who both rejected waiving his no-trade clause at the deadline to go to a contender, and then sits on an offer like the one the Canucks have on the table for almost a month. At this stage in his career, $10M a season is grossly overpaying him. What is the offer that the Leafs have on the table for him…?

By james

July 26, 2008 1:04 AM | Link to this

THIS JUST IN: The Thrashers trade Ilya Kovalchuck for a half-eaten cheeseburger, two cans of bug repellant, and two hardcore hockey fanatics. The ASG (Atlanta Spirit Group, owners of the Hawks and Thrashers) claim this to be the “trade of the century, that gets the team back on track”. “We know what we’re doing, trust us” they said. Then they count their money all the way to the bank while proclaiming “it’s our team, we’ll do with it what we please. Now, if you would, give us all of your money and try your best not to pay any attention to what we’re doing.”

By kracker

July 26, 2008 1:16 AM | Link to this

james Write your next post on TP and then flush it. That will over-value it by 1000%.

You’re not cute, you’re not funny, you are simply a sad jerk-off. Go do that and let us normal people talk hockey.

(surely this is not a masquerading regular DW hater)

By Bob

July 26, 2008 8:58 AM | Link to this

Burnside might be off a spot or two on his prediction of the Thrashers’ finish this year, but if you think he’s wildly off, you’re just not being honest about our situation.

The only lineup worse than ours in the East is the Islanders, Toronto is neck and neck with us, Florida is better than us.

I am hopeful for new coaching, but as my dead old dad used to say “you can’t make s** shine” and the guy’s getting coached are all handpicked by the same architect who’s got us nowhere in 9 years. Sorry, until Waddell is gone, I have little to no hope for major progress, and this club needs major progress. I fully expect this upcoming season to be Kovy’s last full season here ala Hoss.

By Smitty

July 26, 2008 9:18 AM | Link to this

HSBC ARENA Good to hear from someone from WNY. Hopefully we will start playing that up-tempo move the puck quickly type of hockey here in ATL that you are used to in BUF RAWHIDE Do you think Bryan Little can become a Derrick Roy or Danny Briere type of center? Good coaching helped those two become #1 centers.

By james

July 26, 2008 9:58 AM | Link to this

Kracker, I apologize if I’ve hurt your feelings. Yes, I was just trying to be cute. I’m sorry if it didn’t work. I’m just so frustrated with the direction that the ASG has taken both franchises (hawks and thrashers). If you think that I’m just talking crap, you’re wrong. I love this organization, but it’s pretty sad when NOBODY wants to play here. I mean, the Thrash had people turning down millions of dollars just so they wouldnt have to play in Atlanta. I agree with “Smitty”. If you think the Hossa situation was bad, wait until it’s Kovalchuck’s turn. That is going to break the franchise. But the thing is, I can’t blame him for leaving when he does. He’s so good, he deserves to be on a team with some talent. As long as he stays in ATL, the ASG will use his name and say “we’ve got good players”. I will wish him the best when he exits. Go Thrashers! But it’s going to be a long season.

By kracker

July 26, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this

Ok, James. We all want to have a winning team. I just don’t see the state of the Thrashers as starkly negative as you do.

By glovesave29

July 26, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this

Hey, Hip Czech - your wish to get Glen Murray is closer to reality…the Bruins announced this morning that they have bought out his contract.

By Thrashers27

July 26, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this

I can’t decide who I would rather see coaching the Isles…Torts, or Hartley. I would love for the boys to have an opportunity to say “see how we could have played for you, coach.” But, I would also like to see us continue to get under Torts’ skin. Such a big baby.

I wonder when we’ll start dumping centers and picking up a RW, or two.

By Brendan

July 26, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this

Obviously, if the Thrashers are in contention for a playoff spot at the trade deadline, I’m not advocating that we lie down and die, so we can get Tavares. But I’ve yet to find one hockey writer who has us ranked better than 26th. Are they ALL wrong? Are they ALL on Crystal Meth?

Well, before you answer, I’d say, “That’s why we play the games.” Ranking teams, before their final rosters are set, isn’t exactly the smartest thing to do, either. But if this year doesn’t work out so well, I cannot think that getting Tavares is somehing, well, “just God Awful!” Nobody likes to miss the playoffs. Nobody. But if your team does miss the playoffs, what’s better? To draft someone in the Top 5, via lottery, or 6th through 10th? Or worse.

Go Thrashers! I hope they make the playoffs. But if they don’t, at least no other team owns our 1st round draft pick, which ‘could be’ a very coveted draft pick. I cannot help but think Tavares represents tremendous longrange benefit to the Thrashers. And if he’s some “dud,” then everyone, every scout, every analyst, every GM that wants to draft him, is WRONG. It wouldn’t just be a “Waddell goof.”

By Alan

July 26, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this

Ranking teams, before their final rosters are set, isn’t exactly the smartest thing to do, either.

We are in complete agreement here. The free agency period, while all the “big names” seem to be taken or accounted for, is not over yet. There are still free agents out there to sign, and trades can and will be made. Sundin and Sakic have yet to make their decisions on whether they return to the NHL, retire, or where they’ll play next. Sundin is supposed to decide early next month, while Sakic is supposedly going to make his decision sometime in mid-September.

With all the variables still up in the air - especially for the bigger names still unsigned - I found it rather foolhardy to give a pre-preseason ranking. I hate to say it, but Burnside actually made Eklund look like a better journalist.

There, I said it. Now I need a shower.

By kracker

July 26, 2008 6:43 PM | Link to this

Burnside must have gotten blown off when he called about interviewing to replace Hartley.

By Rawhide

July 26, 2008 6:50 PM | Link to this

OK guys, when it comes to Burnside’s power ranking…I know this is a topic that we try to avoid….it can be somewhat embarrassing and Lord knows uncomfortable to discuss with your friends, relatives or significat other. But seeing as we are all advancing in years, soon the time will come when we’ll all be faced with this sensitive matter.

And you know what I’m talking about..it’s either happened or will happen to us all. Most of the time it occurs at the worst possible moment…when you’re really wanting to be at your best…performing at a level you knew you were once capable of.

And you know it’s really…happening… too soon. Your … audience…just isn’t prepared for it. They would much rather it not happen until much…much…later, when it means something and is better for both of you.

But…you go off…too soon…

That’s right, I’m talking about…P.P.R…Premature Power Rankings.

There, I said it…it’s out in the open now. You’ve really nothing to be ashamed of…we’re all capable of it happening to us. After all, we all love the sport of hockey…it’s been weeks since the UFA signing frenzy began, over a month since the entry draft and the last game of the Stanley Cup Finals was played weeks prior to that. So, Burnside can be excused for being a bit antsy, for having a …quick trigger…for wanting to get through this slow period of late July and Early August. He’s just so excited that he just went and popped off way too soon with a power ranking. Way…way…too soon.

He’s really a good writer in regards to ice hockey and the NHL. Many times we have enjoyed his work and many times in the future we will do so again.

But a power ranking in July…just doesn’t really mean a thing and really…it may have been good for him to complete but isn’t very satisfying for anyone else.

P.P.R. … it can happen to us all.

By R. Stroz

July 26, 2008 7:09 PM | Link to this

Rawhide - That really spewed out, didn’t it.

By Rawhide

July 26, 2008 7:35 PM | Link to this

Smitty - Do you think Bryan Little can become a Derrick Roy or Danny Briere type of center? Good coaching helped those two become #1 centers.

Oooh, good question. I think Little definately has the ability to be our #1 center, given the time and, as you say, proper coaching. Could he become a “Roy” or “Briere”….Dunno, time will tell…but I’d love to see it happen.

By PJ

July 26, 2008 8:01 PM | Link to this

Well Rawhide, the question remains, if Burnside is going to roll over and go to sleep on the issue or if he is going to keep himself informed on developments in the industry? If he continues to make adjustments and finely tune his P.R. right up to the climactic start of the season then you should cast a blind eye to his P.P.R. and move on. Don’t you think?

P.S> Just curious, where was Philly ranked last summer?

By Tim

July 26, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this

About Kovy needeing a center, or requesting a center, from what I have seen, he have no trouble scoring goal this past 2 seasons, even without a #1 center. Sure it would help, but no more then our needs to improve the D-Line. Now I have to agree that we have yet to replace Hossa points. And that is un-good.

By ThrashDawg

July 27, 2008 9:37 AM | Link to this

Hockey Biltong I do believe you have a point concerning team chemistry. This cannot be overstated! It was obvious from the start of last season the team had issues. Carry over from Hartley’s poor decision to play musical goaltenders in the playoffs. The Hossa UFA drama that drug on until the trade deadline. The McCrimmon for head coach mutiny that seemed to be going on with the players. The poor leadership in veterans like Holik, etc., etc. It was a screwed up year from the start. It seems like the players that we shipped out were bad seeds and the players we have brought in seem to be good team players from everything I have read about them. Let’s hope this all leads to a competetive season where we are at least in contention for a playoff spot late in the season and develop our young talent in the process.

By ben

July 27, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

We shall soon see if Waddell and Marr’s vision is a good one in regards to the farm’s talent. In the longrun le Thrash will have to grow from the inside. Will Kovy walk? Why fritter our days away and worry about a young man whom I would wager almost no poster to this blog has met? Will you all not be fans of le Thrash if he leaves? “No,” you say. Then, I offer that you were never real fans to begin with. Consider the Packers, Cubbies, and Leafs. Year after year, those fans know no championship will come. And yet, they continue to cheer. For a long time, the Sox Rouge could be counted in that camp as well. “Their team of choice is somehow a reflection of intellegence,” you say. No. It is a choice of the heart. I am a fan of the Bravos because my Grandfather was. He taught me the joy of the leisurely game played at blinding speed. In part, it is to honor him that I watch the Braves. Saddly, wherever I go for the rest of my days I shall be a fan of the Capitol Avenue 9 and there’s nothing I, Liberty Media, Frank Wren, Chipper Jones, Skip Carey, or anyone else can do about it.

I feel the same way about hockey. If Kovy leaves, as he one day will, I shall continue to root just as hard for these lovable loosers. I’ll rail against Waddell’s mismanagement of the team which ran Savard, Hossa, as well as Heatley out of town. All the same I’ll root for my team.