Ice Man

By kracker

July 27, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this

Woohoo! New Rawhide blog!

By Smoothie

July 27, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this

Rawhide — you are da man!!!!!!

You are a tireless workhorse…thanks!

Would love for Slava to rebound and even score 20 goals with 40 assists, but it may be rather difficult for him to do so without that Hossa character…Marian certainly made Slava better by drawing lots of attention away.

HOWEVER, towards the end of the year, the Slava, Little Recchi combo played pretty well as Holik and Thorby played with Kovy. If Little continues to progress — and I think R. Cunneyworth will do wonders with him — we could see a reinvigorated Slava. It would certainly help to drop Williams down to his line by having to accommodate the indefatiguable Mike Knuble!

Say that three times fast!! lol

Kovy — EC — Knuble

Slava — Little — J Will

Perrin — White — Army

Boults — Marty — Thorby

Slater & Stuart as reserves

I’d say those were 4 above avg lines that could help the Thrashers contend for the division and potentially win 40+ games.

And I’m usually a lot more pessimistic about things thant that!

By anonthrashers

July 27, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this

You hit the nail on the head, Slava Kozlov has to wake up this season and produce like we know he has done before. Hopefully he will come into this season ready to earn that paycheck.

By kracker

July 27, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

I, too, am hoping for an addition such as Knuble. I do expect DW to make another move(s). Plus, I continue to optimistically count Nikulin in the fold thus increasing DW’s pool of tradeable assets.

But without considering possible new additions, I am hoping for all the new players (and new coachs), the young talent and those-hoping-to-rebound all quickly get accustomed to each other and the new style of play so that the whole is greater than the summ of the parts.

In short, the lines and pairings will find the necessary chemistry quickly and a given player either surprises, improves, rebounds/meets expectations as a rookie, returning young guy or returning/new vet. And for Kovi’s knee to be 110%.

There is also a large other point I look to: Kari having a career year (to date) in large part due to having an above average defense in front of him.

And everybody stays as healthy as possible.

By kracker

July 27, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this

Andy Strickland: Sources tell me the Chicago Wolves are close to announcing former Blues assistant coach Don Granato as their next Head Coach.

Eklund says he has confirmed Granato today.

By Smoothie

July 27, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

Good scoop kracker!!

By glovesave29

July 27, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

What is the status of Nikulin, anyhow? It has been weeks since the contract was sent off to be translated. Somebody please point the Thrashers brass to www.freetranslation.com and get this thing moving!

What I want from this team is grit and determination. I don’t see us competing for a playoff birth - I will cheer like hell for the team to fight and get one, but being realistic - I think the only thing we win this season is the rights to Tavares. But I want this to be a team no one wants to play. Teams may get the victory against us, but they have to fight to get it. I want them brusied and battered leaving Philips. Last year teams came in and strolled out with their 2 points too easily. This year…they pay! We get everyone on the same page and giving their full effort on every shift, we can do a bit of damage…a win here and there and short benches for the other team in the third. Nothing dirty - just good hard nosed aggressive hockey. The fans will bond with a team of a team a bit short on talent but who are overachievers. THAT is what I want for this season!!!

By Brendan

July 27, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this

Rawhide, should all these substitutions for those who left get us back to 28th place?

By Rawhide

July 27, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

kracker - Dude…do you have an alarm that goes off on your computer whenever I post a new blog? LOL!!!

Brendan - I think we will finish higher than 28th actually. I have this team pegged for 82-86 points….as it sits now.

I know that’s higher than some will predict, but just as I don’t really see the current roster sitting in the post-season…I also don’t see it as a lottery pick either.

A lot of that depends on how the coaching staff deals with these young players and well these players blend and gel together. These are intangibles that cannot to date be measured.

Also…staying healthy and having Kari have a career year play into this thought process as well.

But, as I pointed out above…with the exception of replacing Hossa…I like the overall series of moves made this offseason, (even though we lost out on the Campbell sweepstakes).

I think the team is better than the one that finished out this past season…not a LOT better…just better.

Besides…if DW was able to coach a team to 76 points in 76 games…I think Anderson and Co. can do at least 82 points in 82 games.

We’ll see…

By Thrashers27

July 27, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

Provided this Nikulin kid actaully shows up I would think that defense should actually earn us some points in the coming season. Even if Nikulin doesn’t show the D is vastly improved and will make up for some of the points that left with Hossa.

Part of me wants to see Coach Anderson do well and really light a new fire in the belly of the team, but another part of me hopes that this will be a developmental year for the team and that they’ll be able to pick up Tavarres.

By volgrad1985

July 27, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this

I don’t want to hear or see the name “Tavares” mentioned in the same sentence as “the Thrashers”. Not because I don’t think it would be great to get him, but only because I don’t think we will be anywhere near the bottom 2 spots in the entire league. Not the way this team is being put together, from coaching staff, to special teams, to the last offensive line and defensive pairing.

I’m not gonna say they are a playoff lock, but I think they will be closer to the 7 or 8 place in the conference than they will the 29 or 30 place in the league.

And for the record, if we do get one more quality RW to play the 1st or 2nd line, then I will go out on the limb and call them a lock for the playoffs.

By Jason

July 27, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this

Didn’t know if anyone saw this tidbit today from hockeybuzz. Nothing earth-shattering, but veteren call-up help, if there are injuries.

Rivers Backs Out of Russian Deal???

NHL veteran D-man Jamie Rivers had agreed to play another year in Russia this past week but it looks like that won’t be happening.

Word is Dynamo Minsk wasn’t willing to meet a few simple personal requests asked by Rivers.

Rivers and his wife are expecting their fourth child during this upcoming season.

Things seem to happen for a reason as the Atlanta Thrashers and Rivers are close to agreeing on a two-way contract. Atlanta currently has only five defenseman signed to one-way deals which certainly allows an opportunity for Rivers to return to the NHL.

Rivers will play in the NHL at some point this season but will likely see time in Chicago as well. This signing will provide Atlanta with some decent depth as Rivers is experienced enough to provide an NHL club with some consistent quality minutes.

By kracker

July 27, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this

RH nah…I just update 3 or 4 sites looking for news every half-hour or so when I’m around the house.

if DW was able to coach a team to 76 points in 76 games…I think Anderson and Co. can do at least 82 points in 82 games. Maybe you can see that JA politely receives that notion. One that I agree with once everybody gets accustomed to each other.

By Alan

July 27, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this

Personally speaking, I doubt any one player on this roster is going to replace Hossa’s production. I think all the players are going to have to work together to get that production.

With Anderson at the helm, I see this as a viable solution.

By kracker

July 27, 2008 6:07 PM | Link to this

I saw that somewhere, Jason, but I can’t find where I saw it. Frankly, I didn’t remember he was our property until you posted here. If he signs the 2-way that’s bolsters both clubs.

Hossa: Nobody that was/is available can replace the 100 point 06/07 Hossa. Replacing the 65 point Hossa of last year is quite another matter. Pick up a Knuble or similar caliber RW and this team will easily out-point last year’s model, barring injuries. Factor in a good defense and I’m seeing a high possibility of quite a few more wins this season. A good defense makes your offense better.

By kracker

July 27, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this

Haha, now I see it, it’s in the Strickland column. I was reading about the Wolves coaching situation and didn’t read down far enough. Good catch.

By volgrad1985

July 27, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this

kracker - “Hossa: Nobody that was/is available can replace the 100 point 06/07 Hossa. Replacing the 65 point Hossa of last year is quite another matter. Pick up a Knuble or similar caliber RW and this team will easily out-point last year’s model, barring injuries. Factor in a good defense and I’m seeing a high possibility of quite a few more wins this season. A good defense makes your offense better.”

FINALLY!! Someone sees what I see!! Thanks, kracker, that was a lucid, intelligent, well thought out point…and it’s one I’ve made in conversations for a couple weeks.

Look, don’t anyone get me wrong…I know we aren’t winning the Cup this year, nor the conference, heck probably not even the division. But we will be better, more competitive, win more games, and I believe we will be in the playoffs when it’s all done.

By Bob

July 27, 2008 6:51 PM | Link to this

You guys are completely out of touch with reality. This lineup will not be able to compete over an 82 game stretch, do yourselves a favor and print out a lineup for the clubs in the NHL. Then, lay down the Thrashers’ lineup right next to them and try to convince yourself that this lineup is anywhere near competitive, especially while being led by a coaching staff that has not one game of NHL experience.

Waddell is going for a tank this year, that is crystal clear. And it’s the right thing to do, the worst possible outcome is to have 82 pts or whatever. In the NHL, the only season that matters is the post-season. If you can’t get in, then tank and get Tavares. And that is the plan, and the right thing that Waddell is doing, I applaud him for that, he must really have job security from the Spirit to ice this lineup. Tank, get Tavares or the 2nd guy who I hear is also great, and come back next year and get serious after the ownership is settled.

No new #1 or #2 dman. No #1 center. No #1 RW. No replacement for Hossa’s 90 pts. Rookie coach. This year is a rebuild. Enjoy watching Bogosian grow, hope Little can become an NHLer, and see if Enstrom can avoid the soph slump. And then go get Tavares or the #2, which should be a given with this lineup.

By ThrashDawg

July 27, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this

Bob I hardly doubt any player, coach, GM, owner or towel boy affilliated with a professional sports team would ever have a plan to tank a season before it starts in the hopes to land a #1 overall draft choice. That is the most absurd comment a person can make about any pro franchise. Now, if you are three quarters thru the season and have no hopes of the playoffs. I can see playing all the young guys and taking a chance to land the #1 overall, that makes a little more sense to me and I am not totally sure I agree with that! Oh, is this guy Tavares the next Gretzsky? He better be if I would be willing to tank a whole season!

By Smitty

July 27, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this

Thrashers have gotten a lot younger. Hopefully the younger legs will bring a faster skating team and bring down the hooking and holding penaties that slower teams usually get. I think we should go with the young guys and see if they have what it takes. Why wait another year or two while they grow up in Chicago. Let them grow up here. Where has all the so-called veteran leadership we have had in the past led to? A new coaching staff even with only (proven) minor league experience and a faster younger team, who knows!! Sure we might take it on the chin this year but 82 points with a young improving team just might give us some hope

By hockeyfan

July 27, 2008 7:21 PM | Link to this

Still need a true #1 center for Kovy.

By Michael Guillemette

July 27, 2008 7:28 PM | Link to this

Anyone who thinks we can be a playoff team with the current roster is too far in the forest to see the trees. Now, I think we’ll be better than last year, but not THAT much better. We’re on the right track though.

By LL

July 27, 2008 8:01 PM | Link to this

Well Done! Very Nice Comparison Rawhide! The Next Few Weeks Will Be When We Find Out If Some Trades Are About To Happen.

Remember What We Were Told Though A Couple Of Weeks Ago….”Nothing Is Set In Stone.”

:)

By kracker

July 27, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this

Well, Bob, you are way out at the very end of the limb and there is no coming back for you, so do not even try it if the team does well. Just kindly remain silent.

To recap, Bob says this team will lose a ton of games, as many losing games as any other team or close to it. And furthermore, they will lose these ton of games effectively on purpose, engineered by the poor team design of one Don Waddell.

Me, on the other hand, and a lot of other actual fans, are hopeful that the team will do well and we see some areas where we see reason to be optimistic. If they do well, we will be happy. If they fare a bit less than well, we will see the real building blocks for a base for improvement.

Silly us. Bob has told us in no uncertain terms how it will be. Bob is locked in with no chance to change his, ahem, prediction. None at all, so don’t even try it, Bob.

I wonder if the team mgmt., players and coaches have gotten Bob’s fax yet?

By anonthrashers

July 27, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this

If you hate the team so much and see no chance of anything going right, then honestly, why read blogs about this horrible team? Pick out a team that can win with its eyes closed and skates tied together and leave the Thrashers alone. Oh and please don’t take the time to comment on such a sucky team on a blog. Your time is so much more valuable than the waste on this don’t you think??

So, can the team maybe have a scrimmage or two, or even a preseason game before we count them out and get on the ledge?

Not one person out there can say for sure what is going to happen with the Thrashers. Chemistry is everything. I have said it before and I will say it again, if the team plays as a “team” they will win games. Talent does not count for everything. With this coaching staff I see good things.

By Thrasherbob

July 27, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this

Interesting perspective Rawhide and in the spirit of preemptive speculation…..

I bet you a cold beer Tavares goes to the Kings. Anyone disagree?

By Brendan

July 27, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this

If this team does exceedingly well, I suspect it will be because of the kids, with tremendous credit belonging to the coaching staff. That’s the “X” factor of this upcoming season. Only a few of you saw Enstrom as being part of the top pairing last September. What if Colin Stuart or Brett Sterling has some “break out” year? What if Pavelec wins the #1 starting goalie position, and wins the Calder Trophy? This is why they play the games.

But, my goodness, if things don’t go well … and the team loses 52 games, then that’s what happens. The results will be what they ARE. And if Bob is correct, will you came back to congratulate him on the prediction? Well? I think you should. We use this message board to make predictions all the time.

Stop. Yes we do. From who we think will win each of the divisions, to the playoff seeds, to Conference Finals, to the Stanley Cup Finals. We predict who will win the Vezina, the Jennings, the Art Ross, the Rocket Richard Goal Scoring Trophy, the Jack Adams Coach of the Year Award. We’ve projected the order of the Southeast Division for next year. We predict how many points we think the Thrashers will have. We predict the Opening Night budget. And … we even predict which team we think Hossa will play for next. It turned out to be Detroit. Which was a prediction that Bob got right, along with Nix, FIF, NascarDave, and perhaps a few others.

Ya know … there’s someone at my work who has compiled a laundry list of reasons why he’s SURE that extra terrestrials will make contract with Earth in 2011. I smile politely. And when he asks if I agree with him, I say, “well, I don’t see any truly compelling evidence to suggest such Extra Terrestrial contact is parlicularly imminent, but if it happens, then it happens.” In short, we agree to disagree, and go amicably about our day. What I don’t do … is say, “Look Phil. If by 2011, the space aliens haven’t arrived, you’re fired for mispredicting and misleading your co-workers. And the company will be billing you for the time we spent listening to your theories.” Good lord. Phil has the right to his opinions. If Phil predicts that the sun’s not coming up tomorrow, I don’t run out to buy extra flashlights. And if the sun doesn’t come up tomorrow, I don’t think my flashlights are really going to help me all that much. If you follow. In that situation, I guess the “perks” will be that owls will serenade us with incessant hooting. That is, if you “like” hooting. Maybe you don’t. Perhaps, owls hooting or not hooting will be the last thing on your mind.

By ThrasherNY

July 27, 2008 10:47 PM | Link to this

I read this blog regularly and post at times. Anyone who recognizes my alias probably knows I fall in with the camp who just cant understand why DW is still around. I am also in the camp who thinks this team will struggle to break 80 pts with its current roster. For a select few I am one of the evil negative bloggers not worthy of my posting ability.

Now I have grown accustom to a seperate camp of more optimistic fans who think otherwise about the offseason moves. I actually enjoy your points of view. I too am optimistic about the direction the team is taking with its most recent set of moves. From all accounts it sounds like we tried for a big splash and have since resorted to signing good roll players at good prices. I dont think Nikulin is anything more than another DW pitch line but I do think we are likely trying to work a trade. Not my point though.

What i wanted to ask is why a certain sect of that group thinks that all people who doubt our GM and current roster are somehow not fans. Before I moved to NYC I attended every game at home and even traveled to enjoy games on the road. I was at both games in MSG proudly displaying my Thrasher colors and stood armoungst the brooms to see my team and captain exit the ice. Even from a far I watch the team each game and take an interest enough to frequent this blog daily. I am most certainly a fan!

I am a fan who wants to enjoy watching my team win a playoff series, conference title and Stanley Cup. While i can enjoy the 82 games I get every year I dont think DW has the goods to get my team to the that level. I hate to sound pompous but I have history on my side in this arguement and a vote of no confidence from one of the leagues top players to go along with it. I am entitled to voice my disgust in the hopes others will see the light.

Sorry for the Brendan-esq post. I was just sick of the lambasting by the overly righteous optimistic fans against those who share a different opinion. Posts that are “positive” are just as redundant as those that are “negative” yet you dont blog against the posters for denegrated the conversation. Neither point of view are ruining the blog but the stupid posts against them surely are.

Yes, I see the irony in my post.

By A.S.

July 27, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this

Is this Mike Knuble rumor completely speculation or have there actually been discussion b/t Waddell and the stud RW?

By Hockey Biltong

July 28, 2008 12:27 AM | Link to this

Thank the stars that the games actually have to be played…..and bring on our kick -a* new centre….

By Tony C.

July 28, 2008 2:01 AM | Link to this

Knuble is speculation-but speculation with legs. It’s no secret that Philadelphia’s going to move someone off their current roster. They’re over the cap, and their ownership group made a commitment to go younger (and thusly slightly cheaper) two years ago-that plan still seems to be in effect. I think the Knuble speculation is somewhat wishful thinking, but the contract is right, it fills a need both on the ice and off it (word is he’s very well thought of in the room).

Personally, I don’t think it’ll happen. Mostly, I come to that conclusion because they already got over on DW-unless they feel pity (and this is an organization not noted for it) for fleecing DW in the Zhitnik deal, I don’t see them trading a legit top-line winger especially when they have traded Umberger.

I’d love to see it happen, but who would we swap out for him? Picks? I’m against giving up the 1st rounder, but I’d do a swap of Sterling + 2nd rounder and maybe another prospect for him (Knuble). I think that’s about our most attractive offer that someone might actually be interested in. Is it enough for Knuble???

I kinda doubt it. But who knows? Philly’s made some zany moves before (of course none in recent memory). I’d be a pretty happy guy if DW pulls it off for a reasonable price

Oh and not to be a jerkThrashDawg, but uhhh Tavares might just be the next Gretzky.

GO BLUE !!!

See yall at big-boy camp.

By ranallo10 (in AT)

July 28, 2008 6:24 AM | Link to this

ThrasherNY — I have no issues with you voicing your opinion, even if it is or is not in agreement with my own. Where I do have a problem is when a poster (anyone) claims “I am entitled to voice my disgust in the hopes others will see the light.”

You may replace the word “disgust” with any other term that fits any person’s opinion, it still has the same affect.

By stating it that way (others will see the light), you’re implying you are the person with the correct opinion/stance, where anyone who dissents you is lost in the dark.

Bob, Sage, and now you have used this form of phrasing their points of a post, and each time it evokes the same reaction from those who disagree with you. Do you understand why now???

You’re not “enlightening” anybody with your opinion, you’re merely voicing your own. If a person reconsiders their opinion due to your post, congratulations…it doesn’t mean they’ve “correctly” reconsidered, it just means they now have reasons to agree with you.

Again, I have no complaints about what you want to opine, but I will always have complaints about how people word their opinions as if it is fact.

Bob — I don’t think any professional athlete nor professional sports manager would concede defeat and “tank” before a season begins. Athletes with that attitude would not be able to hold a job at the highest level of competition, as their attitude would be evident in their playing style/ability.

In my opinion, “tanking” is a term evolved from fans, not from athletes. It’s rare for a professional ANYTHING to purposely lose in order to “assure” any semblance of “future profits”.

And in reference to your prediction, hockey isn’t played on paper, it’s played on the ice. Your prediction might be closer to the way things work out, but that doesn’t mean those who disagree with you are “out of touch with reality”.

By HookyBob

July 28, 2008 7:49 AM | Link to this

Here’s a story that may help fans through the tough times. My apologies if someone else has already linked it.

While I am at it (or Rawhide, if fixing my links) here is another story

This is the time of year when a hockey fans hopes rise,..mine are. Maybe, just maybe, the stars will align and we’ll surprise everyone. However for the Thrashers many things need to align for them to be good. It is one thing to get your hopes up,..it is another to have them dashed again and again.

The main thing Thrasher fans are hanging their hats on is “improved team chemistry”. That may very well work,…but in my mind it is a also a very, very long shot to make the playoffs (let alone contend).

As I fan,.. my biggest hope is that we still have a chance to make the playoffs in March (ie meaningful games). What are the chances of that? Are there any bloggers out there who would give me even money that the team, as it is now composed, will make the playoffs?

Short of the playoffs,..I would love to have “delusions of adequacy” for this team. Since they have several young players,…85-90 pts would give me that.

My analytical side is more hopeful of a season similar to last years Blackhawks. They missed the playoffs,…but excited the fans. The potential they showed left the fans with hope for the upcoming season. I can live with that.

By GaVaHokie

July 28, 2008 8:20 AM | Link to this

ThrasherNY — I have no issues with you voicing your opinion, even if it is or is not in agreement with my own. Where I do have a problem is when a poster (anyone) claims “I am entitled to voice my disgust in the hopes others will see the light.”

Ranallo… I also have a problem with the below statement ThrasherNY made.

Anyone who recognizes my alias probably knows I fall in with the camp who just cant understand why DW is still around.

By Bob

July 28, 2008 8:21 AM | Link to this

I hate to sound pompous but I have history on my side in this arguement and a vote of no confidence from one of the leagues top players to go along with it

Oh, actually you have votes of no confidence from several of the league’s top players to go along with it. Hoss, Campbell, Heatley, Rolston, Dan Boyle, Recchi, Mellanby.

Yeah, kracker, I’m way out a limb here. It takes some incredible hockey insight to figure out that this year is a tank and they’re going for a rebuild via the only way Waddell knows how to draft, by picking #1 or #2 overall. I’m a freakin’ genius. Call me Nostradamus, I think I’ll go on to make another incredibly insightful prediction today, radical Muslims will continue to hate America and our way of life. There I did it, I’m even further out on a limb. I’m just that kind of guy.

By GaVaHokie

July 28, 2008 8:30 AM | Link to this

Are there any bloggers out there who would give me even money that the team, as it is now composed, will make the playoffs?

Would you put money on it that they won’t? What’s the difference?

By Rawhide

July 28, 2008 9:06 AM | Link to this

ThrasherBob - I won’t take that bet because I think that’s where he is going too…or at least, the Kings will finish 30th and have the best odds at him.

Now…grabbing soapbox, stepping up on it…

ahem… As far as this whole mini-debate regarding differing opinions in respect to how the team shapes up so far, or just differing opinions in general….especially when it comes to if a person is a true “fan” or not….

All viewpoints are welcome here at all times. I don’t personally see someone as an “idiot” for thinking that the team will finish in the playoffs or somewhere around 75 points. Nor should you.

If someone like Bob thinks the team will “tank”, then fine. That’s his opinion. He even went so far as to say why he thinks so.

I, for one, don’t question his…or anyone else’s…”fanhood” for having that mindset. God knows, he’s got a decade’s worth of experience with this team and the GM to go on.

I think he’s wrong….I hope he’s wrong…but that’s not the issue.

Same with anyone who “thinks” the Thrashers will wind up in the playoffs…or earn more than the 82-86 points that I am forcasting. I think they are wrong, however, I hope they are right. But again, this is not the issue.

As long as a poster can say what they think as well as why they have come to that point of view…or what they have observed to get them there…then these are all valuable insights and are welcome.

Agreeing with me…or anyone else on this blog…is not a prerequisite for participation. All I do here is set the table for discussion and allow you all to join in with whatever side dishes you might have to share with us.

To that end…don’t be too surprised if your opinion is challenged. In case you haven’t noticed, there are some pretty sharp people who frequent this site and they can be quite opinionated themselves. Simply because someone questions your viewpoint…don’t be sensitive about it. It’s all part of the discussion process.

In the end, the season plays out and we all enjoy it, (hopefully), together.

Ok, I will now get off my soapbox and allow the frey to continue…

By Phillips Phan

July 28, 2008 9:16 AM | Link to this

I wouldn’t put any stock in Bob’s offseason analysis. Afterall, at the beginning of last season it was Bob?s incredible hockey insight that said that we the bloggers were all wrong because we overvalue Enstrom too much because he is too small to be effective in the NHL and will be nothing more than a PP specialist. Enstrom was our best defenseman and lead the team with time on ice minutes, not bad for a guy who Bob said would be ineffective and only used on the power play. Going out on a limb, eh?

He’s back again this offseason with his typical negativity, why he is right and we the bloggers are all wrong, that’s all it is. For whatever reason he wants people to feel that there is no hope for this team and we should stop cheering when we have tremendous potential. And when you tell people to join you in not going to the arena, yes, that means you stopped being a fan. Have Kovy play his home games in front of an empty arena, that’ll make him resign in Atlanta! Ignore his propaganda campaign and root for your team. GO THRASHERS!!!

By Bob

July 28, 2008 9:39 AM | Link to this

Gee, let me guess who you are, “Phan”. You’re a fool for still carrying that around, nice to see it didn’t bother you that much that you’re bugged by it a year later, lol. And no I didn’t say “all” the bloggers were wrong, I said you were. BTW, I came back mid-season, like I said I would, and evaluate Enstrom again. And I admitted I was wrong, that he was more effective than I figured his size would limit him to. He still should not be a top pairing guy, signing Campbell would have fixed that, but he is effective at even strength and moves the puck well, I now think he’s a solid #3 guy, but forced into the top guy here.

I make lots of predictions, look at that same post in what I kept saying about Hossa, that he was gone, and about our other players. Interesting that you had to go back a full year to cherry pick one thing I was wrong about, I make predictions on this blog just about every day, read my other opinions in that same blog about Hoss and our other players. You prove my point and I’ll stand by that, no problem.

Now, why don’t you go get a life and move along and realize that the big picture is this club has serious problems that start at the top, and until those are fixed, we’re all just p** in the wind about minutea.

By Phillips Phan

July 28, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this

Now, why don’t you go get a life and move along

Wow, Bob sure gets upset when someone shows all the bloggers that he was wrong. I guess it’s all that negativity that builds up.

Rawhide didn’t you say we were allowed to disagree and be astute or must we only do what Bob says we can do?

By Bob

July 28, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this

Brian, why don’t you use your old name? Oh, is that because everything except Enstrom that you predicted turned out to be dead wrong? lol. Get a life dude, to be holding onto to that one bit of minutea a year later is a sign of some personal trouble there, Sparky.

By Phillips Phan

July 28, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this

Bob who’s Brian? I just looked at Brendan’s post above stating that you were wrong and did a google search on it. It’s easy to see how wrong you were. Thanks Brendan for the tip on Bob, now I know not to listen to the guy. GO THRASHERS!!!

By Bob Dylan

July 28, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this

This one goes out to Bob,

How many roads must a fan walk down
Before you call him a fan?
Yes, ‘n’ how many ticket deals must a fan have to get
Before they go to Blueland?
Yes, ‘n’ how many times must Don Waddell fail
Before he’s forever canned?
The answer, my friend, is pi$$in’ in the wind,
The answer is pi$$n’ in the wind.

How many times must a fan look up
Before he starts questioning “why”?
Yes, ‘n’ how many ears must Levenson have
Before he can hear the fans cry?
Yes, ‘n’ how many failed seasons will it take till he knows
That too many people’s hopes have died?
The answer, my friend, is pi$$in’ in the wind,
The answer is pi$$in’ in the wind.

How many years can an organ-I-zation exist
Before it’s washed to the sea?
Yes, ‘n’ how many years do some STHs have to pay
Before they’re allowed to get some for free?
Yes, ‘n’ how many times can those fans turn their head,
Pretending they just do not see?
The answer, my friend, is pi$$in’ in the wind,
The answer is pi$$in’ in the wind.

By glovesave29

July 28, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this

While visiting my other favorite blog, Icethetics, I got this info on the new Thrashers third jersey…”The club will introduce a dark red jersey with the word “THRASHERS” on the front, just above the player’s uniform number, which will appear on both sides of the design. A broad white stripe will adorn each arm of the jersey with a dark red number in the stripe. A broad white-and-dark blue stripe will run down the sides of the jersey”

It is a great site for those interested in hockey logos and sweaters.

By Phillips Phan

July 28, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this

Bob who’s Brian? I just looked at Brendan’s post above stating that you were wrong and did a google search on it. It’s easy to see how wrong you were. Thanks Brendan for the tip on Bob, now I know not to listen to the guy. GO THRASHERS!!!

By Corey

July 28, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this

This blog is getting sad… you guys are acting like little kids…

So are there any concrete rumors going around about trade talks or Nikulin? Summers are so boring… zzzzz….

By Bob

July 28, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this

Dude, you have issues and you’re making a fool out of yourself.

The answer is p’ in the wind

lol!

By Enstrom is awesome

July 28, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this

He still should not be a top pairing guy, signing Campbell would have fixed that, but he is effective at even strength and moves the puck well, I now think he’s a solid #3 guy, but forced into the top guy here.

I think Enstrom is a great defender and is worthy of being a #1 in this league. He is also better than just at “even strength”. Correct me if I am wrong but didn’t Enstrom do well on the power play last season. We shouldn’t be putting Enstrom down and beating up on him just because he plays for the Thrashers.

By ranallo10 (in AT)

July 28, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this

Bob — I’d equate Enstrom to a younger Rafalski, do you agree or disagree?

They may not be the same exactly (that’s not the point), but rather they are offensive defenseman who are a #2/#3 defenseman on a strong defensive team, or #1 d-men on a weak defensive team.

If Campbell were signed here I think Enstrom would’ve taken a step down in minutes (effectively being a #2/#3 d-man)…however, if a Tier I defensive minded defender was signed (for arguments sake somebody like Foote or Blake), Enstrom could easily be a #2 with that defender.

Obviously his ranking on the teams defensive depth chart depends on the talent around him, but I think he’s shown he’s a solid PP guy and a legitimate #2/#3 defender (getting 20+ minutes per game)…just like Rafalski.

By NASCAR Dave

July 28, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this

Hey, is NIKULIN here yet??? Why NOT??? LOL…

LARSEN/KLEE been WAIVED yet???

KOVY have a #1 CENTER yet???

NUFF SAID.

By Zack

July 28, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this

I have been saying everything that you addressed in this thread for the last few weeks. This team does not have a snowball’s chance in hell unless they make another big signing that can carry some of the offensive work load. Without that more than 2 or 3 guys are really going to have to step up this year for the thrashers to be able to compete.

crosses fingers

By GaVaHokie

July 28, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this

All we can do is speculate. We won’t know anything until Anderson’s system is put in place… could be night and day.

Instead of depending on Kovy and Hossa to do all the scoring, if Anderson’s system opens the door for more 2nd and 3rd line scoring (not to mention aggressive defensive scoring) then comparing this year to last year is certainly “p** in the wind”.

I believe (backed by my 86 point prediction) that we’ll get a lot more double-digit scoring from guys like Perrin, Slater, Christensen, Armstrong, White and Thorburn. The bulk of the scoring coming from Kovy, Kozy and Williams.

By Rusty

July 28, 2008 11:35 AM | Link to this

Rawhide…I normally come to you for optimism, but the best I can hope for in your comparisons is that we won’t be worse than we were…IF we can replace Hossa’s numbers. The Hossa of the Thrashers was not the Hossa of the Playoffs - or the first couple of years here. However, he did produce more than any other winger besides Ilya. Christiansen is a good player, but he ain’t Marian Hossa. Thinking he can match Hossa’s two-way ability is a pipe dream.

No where in your analysis did you suggest that Slava might spring back from a devastatingly disappointing season. He seems to be the lost Thrasher, which no one wants to talk about.

Not getting worse is not good enough. This is a team that must get drastically better. Reading your analysis indicates you don’t think that will likely happen.

By ranallo10 (in AT)

July 28, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this

Hokie — I assume based on your last post that you believe Perrin can replicate his production from this season’s past? If that’s true, and he does re-produce career numbers (based solely on getting a shot, not on lack of ability in the past) do you feel he is worth re-signing for a few more seasons?

Personally, I worry Perrin might not be able to reproduce his stats from last season, and would rather wait on re-signing him in 2009 (at the risk of his value going up) than signing him now and see his production take a hit.

By GaVaHokie

July 28, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this

Ranallo… we should atleast get the SAME performance out of Perrin. I think after last year, we have a better understanding of how to play Perrin and Thorburn and should, hopefully, get more production out of both of them.

Resigning Perrin would solely depend on Machachek and Holzapfel’s performance in Chicago… Perrin could be trade deadline bait.

Rusty… Kozlov is too smart of a player to repeat last years performance. With Hossa departing, I expect Kozy to be back on PP1 as the QB.

By Rawhide

July 28, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this

Rusty - I am, as I have stated before, “cautiously optimistic” about this season. True, I don’t “see” the team in it’s current configuration…but I do thik they’ll be better.

Besides, no one can really give an accurant account as to where this or any other team is gonna wind up until we can see ‘em out on the ice together. I’ve said 82-86 points as they sit now…but that’s purely speculation as they look on paper.

Now…that being said, that projection could be forcasted up given other moves that will, IMHO, be made over the coming weeks.

As for Slava…I did make the mention in the last paragraph regarding his numbers last season vs. the season prior. I can see him having a bounce back year after what happened last season.

By ranallo10 (in AT)

July 28, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this

Hokie — Understood. I think Kozlov excelled on the right boards more so than QBing the PP. Williams and Enstrom have solid production on the blue line for the PP (Kovalchuk too, obviously), but grit in the middle (Little/Christensen), Kozlov and Kovalchuk on the wings, and Williams/Hainsey/Enstrom shooting the puck on net…I think the PP could do well.

To me the sole problem with the PP the last few seasons has been the coaching, not the playing. So if Anderson and crew can get the most out of 4 players with ability to run a PP (Hainsey and Enstrom as defenders, Kovalchuk and Williams as forwards) then I think this PP could be effective.

Not top tier, but effective none-the-less.

By Bob

July 28, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this

No where in your analysis did you suggest that Slava might spring back from a devastatingly disappointing season. He seems to be the lost Thrasher, which no one wants to talk about

He’s certainly not getting any younger, how old is he now? That might be the big factor, it seemed like he lost a step last year and some skill, that won’t come back by being one year older.

I also thought Kozlov was out of sorts last year, was it that he was a “Hossa guy” and was depressed about things as was Marian? Don’t know, but I think it’s folly to expect him to return to the 70 to 80 pt range. He benefited from great chemistry with Hoss while putting up those points 2 and 3 years ago, Hoss is gone now. I think the top end we can expect out of Kozlov this year is 50 pts, that would be a great year for him, I think.

By William

July 28, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this

Kozlov is the professor. Last year Hossa was that dysfunctional student that distracts the rest of the class and the teacher (uh, Professor) had to waste time trying to get that dysfunctional student to behave. Now that the dysfunctional student is gone, the rest of the students will benefit by having the full attention of the Professor. Watch them all excel together, the teacher and the students, as they won’t be distracted. Now that Kozzy doesn’t have to worry about who he will be playing with, whether or not Hossa is here to stay, he can focus on hockey again. Performance will go up. Plus we have Principal Anderson who will implement a whole new “curriculum” and the Professor will do wonders with it.

By GaVaHokie

July 28, 2008 1:02 PM | Link to this

Ranallo… by QBing the Power Play, I mean Kozlov being the guy creating time and space… not working the point.

Kozlov was always great about getting the puck in the zone and holding it until everyone was established. I’m looking forward to seeing that again.

PP1 I see Kovalchuk Enstrom on the point. Kozlov, Williams and Christensen working the net.

PP2 I see Hainsey and Bogosian on the point. Perrin, Thorburn and TBD

By Nikita

July 28, 2008 1:02 PM | Link to this

ranallo, why would you think Perrin’s production would fall off? His route to the NHL has been circuitous and he’s a playmaker so he yields to others. But he’s been a pretty consistent producer wherever he’s placed as long as he’s in a position to be so. I would assume that if we don’t do something insanely stupid like putting him on the checking line, we’ll see equal or better point production from him next season.

I believe that we’ll get a lot more double-digit scoring from guys like Perrin, Slater, Christensen, Armstrong, White and Thorburn.

I concur. It’s a short trip for Perrin and the Penguins, and I hope this is the year that Slates and Thorburn open up. Also, I think we’ll see more scoring from Toby Enstrom in an Anderson system, and with an effective team that employs solid fundamentals.

By Brendan

July 28, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this

Rawhide, that was excellent commentary. People should come here to express their opinions about the team, the ownership, the management, etc. I think there are some truly excellent posters here. Personally, I’d rather not see the attacks on posters. Life’s too short for that.

Suffice it to say that all fans have differing visions for the Thrashers. It doesn’t make them “bad,” or “evil” or “stupid.” In one of my least fond memories of Hillary Clinton, she says, in a voice so shrill it would crack a wine glass, “We have the right to criticize THIS Administration … or ANY Administration!!!” Once you get past the “whinyness,” you see she has a valid point.

I would add, “There’s a very real difference between ‘legitimate criticism,’ and ‘bashing.’” Humor me, for a moment. Let’s say your favorite sport is Lacrosse. And your Major Indoor Lacrosse Team of preference just lost its Star player, as well as several other role players. And didn’t really attempt to replace it with anything better. And you point this out on a blogsite. Is that “whining” or is it “legitimate criticism?” Now, compare that with this: “This Lacrosse teams stinks it up every game. They’re a bunch of losers and they will always be losers. This year and every year. The whole organization is inept.” Is that a valid “criticism?” Or is it “whining?” Stop thinking. It’s not a question that requires thought.

When it comes to opinions, I think the late George Carlin nailed it. When you’re driving down the Interstate, anyone going slower than you is a “moron,” and anyone driving faster than you is a “maniac!!” Sadly, this kind of egocentrism is what is rampant in our culture.

When I meet strangers, and they tell me that they’re Republicans or Democrats, I don’t instantly assume they’re stupid. If the beliefs and values of these parties were so insufferable, unpalatable, and so wickedly offbase, why would so many people choose to be members? And even switch parties, from time to time? There are very intelligent Democrats and very intelligent Republicans.

I hope the Thrashers do very well this season, exceeding all expectations. But if they don’t, I will not come here to throw the team under the bus with each successive loss. I understand what the term “rebuilding” means. And when Don Waddell gets something right, in my view, I give him credit for it. If he does something I don’t particularly support, I voice that criticism.

We all experience fandom in different ways. I advocate tolerance. At the end of the day, I think most, if not all, of the bloggers want the team to do well, and to one day win the Stanley Cup.

By NASCAR Dave

July 28, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this

I see the sheep are feeling very optimistic today… LOL.

The notion that this roster will be better than last years roster is quite laughable, at best…

Good post @ 1:11 BRENDAN

By ThrasherNY

July 28, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

ranollo: I understand the spirit of your arguement and concede the language was incendiary which I could have more tastefully handled. That comment was really targeted toward the retention of DW and so “disgust” is truly how I feel about the topic. My comment about seeing the light is born from my opinion that we could have a new GM if only a greater part of the fan base would hold DW accountable for his actions. I guess I am not the most advanced wordsmith so I struggle to be tasteful when I am passionate about the team in in that passion brews frustration which modifies my word choice.

GaVaHokie I dont know what you read into the “alias” word but again I think it is lack of wordsmithing skill. I just meant to say my birth name is not ThrasherNY. In the spirit of full disclosure, I also switched my “poster name” to NY vs 316 which used to be my season ticket section before I moved.

On Kozlov I share Bob’s opinion that 80pts is not in the cards but I really think JA can effectively manage Slava to contribut 50+ pts. My hopes for the PP with regards to Kozlov is that we ask him to showcase his shot. I am often frustrated that he does not put shots on net more often to keep the defense away from Kovy’s side of the ice. I guess away is not the word but his quick shot would keep them honest.

By GaVaHokie

July 28, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this

I see the sheep are feeling very optimistic today… LOL.

Ugh… I’m going to incorporate something I learned in Middle School.

The next person that says “sheep” or “kool-aid” is a douche bag.

… there.

Feel free to scream out when someone says it.

By Midfield

July 28, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this

Kozlov hardly was on the ice with Kovy last season. The problem with Kozlov was really not that he would not shoot. The problem was that he was poorly conditioned and, therefore, too slow. You get all sorts of problems from being too slow in the NHL. Getting shots on goal off is just one of them.

By GaVaHokie

July 28, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this

ThrasherNY… I took it to mean you post under a different “alias” when you criticize Waddell… my apologies for misinterpreting.

By Nikita

July 28, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this

I think the whole team was poorly conditioned last year. We really dragged for the first month or so, and by the time the team was decently conditioned everyone else was highly competitive.

Maybe that’s why the team kept Lehts and Thorburn around this summer…both of them were especially weak for their ages and general condition at the start of last season. Too much drinking over the summer, maybe…I thought Slava looked o.k. by mid-season, though.

By Bob

July 28, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this

The problem was that he was poorly conditioned and, therefore, too slow

He’s 36 now, I think you’re hitting the nail on the head here. To think he’s going to re-gain speed and skill and get back to 70 or 80 pt seasons is just ignoring reality. We have him under contract for this season and next, I think 50 pts this year and 45 next year is realistic upside for him and the best that can be hoped for.

A realistic look at our forwards show a glaring lack of scoring, which allows clubs to further drape their top checking centers and d pairs on Kovy. Slater isn’t going to magically turn into a scoring machine, forwards mature very early in their careers, 24 yrs. old and you know what you’ve got with them. You can hope for a dman to bloom later, but with forwards you know what you’ve got pretty early with them.

Williams is our big scoring punch after Kovy, then Kozlov, then a bunch of 5-15 goal guys. A move to bring in a 30+ goal scorer is needed here, but can it be done? I fear that move won’t be done after I read that Coach called up Todd White and told him he is is counting on him to pot 30 goals this year.

By ranallo10 (in AT)

July 28, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this

Nikita — I think it’s because he had a great season, but thus far it was the best of his career coming at the age of 32. He’s played two full seasons of NHL hockey, and has skated alongside the likes of Richards, St. Louis, Kovalchuk, Hossa, and Kozlov.

I think a replication of 45 points with little-to-no complimentary pieces that equal Hossa means he’ll suffer production wise. Also, 10 of his 45 points were on the PK, which is 8 greater than any other Thrasher over the season (Kovalchuk and Slater had 2, Dupuis wasn’t counted), and ranked him first in the NHL for SH points. I find it hard to imagine he can replicate that special teams production.

Basically I think he played commendably last year, but have a hard time imagining him matching his 45 points unless he’s lined up with Kovalchuk for more than 40 games. My guesstimate for his point production would be 35 points…which I would still be pleased with. If he surprises me, great!

Hokie — I too enjoyed watching Kozlov slow the PP down in the right corner, setting up the plays…so I would hope he can play that role again. His PP numbers are one of the many reasons he didn’t get close to the 80 points from the previous season, but I don’t see 50 points out of the realm of possibility (even at his age). So I guess I agree with Bob and ThrasherNY on that.

I do think he needs to shoot more, but most times I think it’s his NHL veteran experience speaking louder than me seeing an open shooting lane (after all, he’s on the ice, I’m simply in the stands or watching on TV). He’s the only person I could somewhat agree with when people yelled “shoot-it”…he’s got a laser guided puck, when he decides to let it loose.

ThrasherNY — I appreciate your conceding on the diction of your post. I think you’ll find if you avoid incendiary statements you’ll also receive less flack for your comments…but you’ve been around a while so I’m sure you already knew that.

I do respect your reasons for being disheartened with this franchise, specifically Waddell’s continued employment. Personally I see the ownership as the bigger stumbling block in success for this franchise…and my best proof is the continued employment of Waddell. Clearly we’re not in full agreement, but such is life.

By NASCAR Dave

July 28, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this

To think he’s going to re-gain speed and skill and get back to 70 or 80 pt seasons is just ignoring reality.

LOL… I agree 100%… Whichever Sheep said that must have drank too much Kool-Aid!!!

LMAO…

By Alan

July 28, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

The notion that this roster will be better than last years roster is quite laughable, at best

I disagree. And if that makes me a sheep, Sage… er, I mean Dave, then find me a plot of grassy land away from New Zealand and we’ll be good.

On paper, this roster looks less than stellar. This is something both of us likely agree with. However, there are a lot of variables in place this year that weren’t there last year. Firstly, we lack Zhitnik. Secondly, we have a major coaching change. Thirdly, we don’t have any locker room drama about Hossa to deal with. This is important, as I think this is where things started falling apart last year. He’s gone, and it’s time to put it behind us.

In reality, this lineup is going to change before the puck drops on 10 Oct. Whether it’s a trade for someone like Knuble or a longshot Chicago kid (eg: Oystrick) making the team, this lineup is most certainly not set in stone. Even then, let us consider the amount of potential this lineup has. And with all the new kids plus the revamped coaching staff, I think we have a ton of potential.

What we need to look for when the puck drops on 10 Oct 2008 at 7:30pm vs. Washington is how much of that potential our guys can harness. Can Slater, Perrin, or Enström pot a dozen or more goals each? They’ve got the potential to do that and more. We just need to watch and see if they harness it, and see if they buy into the system.

By kracker

July 28, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this

Even though I am still reading yesterday’s posts, I wish to clear up a point now (if anybody cares.) I have no problem with or dislike of anybody that predicts the team will suck badly this season, as long as they are at least moderately polite when doing so.

By Brendan

July 28, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

Since Slava Kozlov has two years left on his contract, with a no trade clause, I hope he is energized about playing this year. But the loss of Hossa is unmistakenly damaging to this club.

Stop. What would our record have been without Hossa from October to February? Hossa is a ‘world class’ player. There’s just no denying it. They don’t grow on trees. Eric Perrin is a capable enough Center. But there’s little doubt in my mind that he benefits, tremendously, from skilled wingers. I cannot hazard a guess at Perrin’s point totals this year.

As best as I can surmise Don Waddell’s thinking, he likes to let a player’s final stats dictate his next contract. Waddell had stated in the past, regarding Marc Savard, that he thought contract negotiations during the season might adversely affect “on ice performance.” We can argue back and forth as to the wisdom of that. I do see two sides of that argument. On the one hand, the player should be paid his fair market value for the results actually produced. On the other hand, at least some “proactive thought” ought to go into building a roster for the future. If a GM can reasonably re-sign a player he feels is worth keeping, a year ahead of schedule, that is the sort of thing that (1) the player appreciates and (2) the team will take notice. Players seeing other players getting locked up … influences their own personal decisions about their future with the club.

If Waddell is far from convinced that Eric Perrin is someone worth keeping beyond next season, then I understand what he’s doing. But if he does think of Eric Perrin as a “fixture” within the organization as a latter line Center, then I don’t understand why he hasn’t approached Perrin about a contract extension. Same deal with Toby Enstrom, who is eligible to be re-signed right now. Again, if Waddell is thinking, “let’s see two (2) years of this guy before I renew him,” then I have to respect that.

Deep down, what I think Waddell is thinking, vis-a-vis Enstrom, is this: “Hey Toby. If you deliver the season we think you can. I’ll pay you what the market will bear. I don’t want to short-change you by offering a longterm contract, at a discount, that undervalues you. I want to be fair about things.” And if that is the case … will Enstrom appreciate the gesture? Or would he rather just get a guaranteed contract, in writing, right now?

By NASCAR Dave

July 28, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this

ALAN - What’s wrong with New Zealand???

Alan, I am merely adding to the discussion here… RAWHIDE asked what we think will happen this year… I just think that the people that are posting the stuff about us being better than last year, last year was an anomally, and voting in the poll that we will be 1st in the Southeast are just acting plain silly, Alan… Wouldn’t you agree???

I mean seriously, some of these people are just plain foolish!!!

By polskidawg

July 28, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this

Definitions by Websters.

Realism: concern for fact or reality and rejection of the impractical and visionary.

Negativism: an attitude of mind marked by skepticism especially about nearly everything affirmed by others.

Optimism: an inclination to put the most favorable construction upon actions and events or to anticipate the best possible outcome.

I offer these for the Thrasher blogging community in the hopes that we can, at worst, identify others’ blogging personalities more accurately.

I tend to be in the realist/optimist category. Realism compels me to “predict” a 75 - 80 point season, based on the roster and its player’s past performance.

Optimism compels me to hope for A) more points, and B) more exciting play, and C) improve play from key components - KL, EC, BL, SK, etc.

I hope this helps.

By Bob

July 28, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this

I’m most definitely a realist, which makes me look honestely at the players and compels me to predict a 77pt season and thus be negative about this coming season’s prospects.

Optimism abounds in me once again however, that one more year of Waddell’s ineptness will finally, finally, be the straw that breaks his back and the Spirit will finally settle the lawsuit and get a real GM in here.

By GaVaHokie

July 28, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this

A 50 pt season for Kozlov would be in the realm of 20 goals and 30 assists… I think he can do better than that, especially if put on the PP1 unit.

… certainly more assists.

By truth seeker

July 28, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this

He’s 36 now, I think you’re hitting the nail on the head here.

If expecting a 36 year old to perform at high levels is something only the sheep would do, who was it that wanted to sign the 36 year old Brian Rolston to a multiple year contract?

Was it?

NO. But could it have been?

YES! It was Bob who wanted us to go sign a 36 year old in free agency

And look how upset the little sheep got when he was finally signed by nj and we couldn’t get the guy to play for us until he was 40

By Nikita

July 28, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this

He’s 36 now, I think you’re hitting the nail on the head here. To think he’s going to re-gain speed and skill and get back to 70 or 80 pt seasons is just ignoring reality.

Eh, maybe. But last year he did so badly, and looked so badly doing it, it almost was like he’d been switched fro another player. He was (I think) very depressed, not up to his own standards in passing or energy, and not even as subtle as he has been in years past. So, I’d expect a big leap back up to production — I don’t know that I’d expect to go all the way back to his peak.

As for Perrin, I think you all underestimate him. He did well on every line he played on, and he didn’t decide he was god’s gift to Atlanta just because he was standing next to our most expensive asset or get pitched for taking sides and having his attitude take a dive. And in general he shows up and puts in hard work and makes his linemates look good. He has now played two full NHL seasons, putting up 36 and 45 points, respectively. I would think, barring injury or some such, that we’ll get at least 40 out of him. My only hope for him would be that he improve at the shootout — he’s not well enough rounded.

By Alan

July 28, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this

ALAN - What’s wrong with New Zealand???

Last time I checked, there are 12 sheep to every one person in NZ. I’ll let you figure out what I mean from there. Heh.

All kidding aside, though, I’m sure NZ is a wonderful place to live. And if anyone from there is reading this, I mean absolutely no disrespect. It’s just a joke.

Alan, I am merely adding to the discussion here

Oh, I know you are. I’m just adding my opinion to the pile as well. I just used your post as a jumping off point. :)

Having said that… while I do feel we’re better than last season, I feel it’s only on a marginal level as we stand today. Certainly, there’s the lack of Hossa, which was not accounted for in that assessment. However, I feel that Anderson will put everyone on notice, whether they play D or F, that they are expected to produce. Increased production from everyone will account for the lack of Hossa. Though it would be nice if we could get another big scorer here - there’s still a lot of offseason time before camp starts, so anything could happen.

On 11 Apr 2009 by about 10pm Eastern, I somehow doubt we will look at the game we just won against Tampa Bay and find the team in first place in the division, much less in playoff contention at all. On the “vote early, vote often” AJC poll, I voted that we would finish third in the division. This is where I truly believe we’ll end up at season’s end.

Now, whether we find ourselves in a logjam for the bottom of the conference is another question entirely… but I feel certain that our offseason moves this summer so far have not made us a worse team.

By R. Stroz

July 28, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this

Looks like it is time for the rubber to meet the road.

Brendan - I’ll appoint you the recordkeeper, whether you want the job or not.

Everyone provide your estimated point totals for the Thrashers upcoming season and lets see who is closest come April 12, 2009.

Put up, or shut up, estimated point totals please.

By Midfield

July 28, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this

Are you going to roll the lines, Stroz?

By ranallo10 (in AT)

July 28, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this

You have to give credit to truth seeker and/or Philips Pfan for the ability to find a specific post from 2007, or 4 specific posts from a few weeks back. Impressive archive diving, to say the least.

Anyways…all we can do is speculate on Kozlov’s declined production. I’m optimistic that Kozlov can rebound to his career averages, while realistic in knowing that 80 points was a career high and wont easily be attained for him again.

Nikita — I don’t think many people are discounting Perrin, so no need for you to defend him in only the way you can (making it seem like you two are doing the hibbidy dibbidy, like your defenses of Klee).

I simply believe that he’ll have a hard time replicating his production from last year. I don’t doubt his heart, his hustle, or his position/linemate flexibility…I simply doubt that he can put up 45 points (and 10 SH points) without playing next to Kovalchuk for the majority of the season. Since I don’t think he’s the best option next to Kovalchuk, I don’t feel he’ll reproduce last seasons statistics.

From what I read around here most posters believe Perrin to be the blue collared guy most fans respect, similar to the love for Jon Sim two years back.

By Nikita

July 28, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this

What’s with the peevishness, Stroz? I put up my points weeks ago.

By William

July 28, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this

r.stroz for a guy who is yelling put up or shut up why didn’t you include your estimated point total? since you are the one calling everyone to the carpet shouldn’t you be the first one to put a number down?

By polskidawg

July 28, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this

The realist in me says 78 points.

The optimist says the team will be much more fun to watch, and some young guys (Little, Bogosian, LaVallee, Kulda) will give us something to look forward to seeing in ‘09-‘10.

By Smoothie

July 28, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this

I’ll take 78 pts…just don’t see this team being above .500 nor do I see it being much below…somewhere in the neighborhood of 34-36 wins MAX.

UNLESS, they make a trade for someone like Mike Knuble who is almost guaranteed to score 25 goals sharing a line with Kovy. Then I could forsee them shocking the division and squeaking out a 2nd place finish behind Wash…a total of 91 pts and MAYBE the 8th seed in the PO.

The difference between winning and losing is very fine in the NHL, but without more scoring punch, I don’t see how the Thrashers will improve over last year even with a potentially better defense.

By Nikita

July 28, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this

I simply doubt that he can put up 45 points (and 10 SH points) without playing next to Kovalchuk for the majority of the season.

Why, though? He didn’t play next to Kovalchuk most of last season. He played next to whoever he got, which sometimes was Hossa, but sometimes was Dupuis or Thorburn or White or some kid from Chicago. Besides which, given his size, he won’t be playing lower than the 2nd or 3rd, which should put him with the kids (who he demonstrated his ability to score with) or Slava. I think he’ll do fine. If he gets injured or displaced off the PK, then yeah, he’ll do a lot worse.

Hibbidy dibbidy? Nice. I’ll have to use that the next time I whisper sweet nothings in Ken’s ear… just kidding. My defenses would be unnecessary if people would simply give credit where it’s due.

similar to the love for Jon Sim two years back.

Well…I do love Jon Sim, actually. What can I say? I like people who show up and put in a full day’s work. Though Sim’s full day’s work wasn’t as statistically good as Perrin’s.

By Bob

July 28, 2008 5:04 PM | Link to this

stroz, we did this already, but mabye you were on vacation, my pick is 77 pts, that’s as optimistic as I can get with this lineup.

Now, if we had signed Rolston and Campbell, then we could talk playoffs, but alas.

The optimist says the team will be much more fun to watch, and some young guys (Little, Bogosian, LaVallee, Kulda) will give us something to look forward to seeing in ‘09-‘10

I concur, there are some compelling reasons to watch the club this year, Bogosian, see if Little can turn into an NHLer, see if Enstrom can avoid the soph slump. Not compelling enough for me to buy season tix, but compelling enough to watch some games.

By R. Stroz

July 28, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this

69 - Seems like a fun number.

By Bob

July 28, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this

Hey Brian, bookmark this blog so we can re-visit it at the end of the year, eh?

lol

Let’s see if everyone has the balls to put their prediction out there.

By Nikita

July 28, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this

I seem to recall that I predicted 82.

By Alan

July 28, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

Here’s where it all started last time we did points predictions. For the record, my prediction still stands.

By Brendan

July 28, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this

R.Stroz, in Rawhide’s next blog … which will probably be soon, I’ll start recording point-total votes. What invariably happens is that people project an estimate, like 82-86 points. That’s not really an entry. Then someone will sarcastically chime-in, “I’d say somewhere between 70-90 points.” Well, Gee. Ya think?

So, if we’re gonna do this, we’d better have a tie-breaker mechanism in place, since the actual voting is likely to come in somewhere between 70-90 points. What if the actual point total is 81? And someone has 80 and someone else has 82. Who wins? I’d like to offer a “draw,” and co-winners. My unofficial guess, with a gun put to my head, is 78-points, which is the same as Polskidawg’s guess. Would we both win? Or, can we tie it to correctly picking the Thrashers as 3rd place in the division? For example.

I’m still tallying “Opening Night Budget” guesses, R. Stroz. And I don’t think I have one from you. Voting ends Sept. 1st, at Noon, for the budget.

By ranallo10 (in AT)

July 28, 2008 5:21 PM | Link to this

Nikita — To my recollection he was playing the beginning of the season with either Kovalchuk and (insert winger or center here), or between Hossa and Kozlov. Since there was plenty of line shuffling, and because I didn’t specifically watch all of his line pairings (admittedly I was most interested in Little, Sterling, Hossa and Kovalchuk’s linemates), I definitely concede that he did play with MORE than those two.

But, as I highlighted previously, he outplayed the entire NHL in SH situations. Either he’s a hidden gem with an uncanny ability to turn on the offensive production when a man down, and has hidden this ability from NHL GMs and coaches all this time, or he simply played better than is to be expected.

I am not knocking the man’s abilities, and I’ve given him enough credit where it is due (heart, hustle, flexibility with position and linemate)…I simply do not derive enough confidence in his abilities to expect him to score 45 points this season, and partially shoulder the replacement of Hossa’s offensive production.

I appreciate your sticking up for them though, my hibbidy dibbidy statement was meant in jest…so please tell Klee that, I don’t want him to beat me. He might be older and slower but he’s surely bigger than I am!

By Russ

July 28, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this

I said 73 pts. as the roster stands now, but will revise as more roster moves are made. Even with two d-men still to be determined it seems the team is going to be just short of the salary floor, so I still think there are moves to be made. If Nikulin comes over and makes around $1.5 mil. that would probably do it. But can he make that much, was this ever clarified?

By R. Stroz

July 28, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this

Brendan - Lets see, 41.5 million.

By Alan

July 28, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this

Brendan - Here are the point totals predicted in the blog I linked to. Note the lack of “guesstimates” like that which you described:

Bob - 77pts Sara - 86pts (40-36-6) Alan - 82pts (37-37-8) Rawhide - 85pts (38-35-9) Russ - 73pts Nikita - 86pts Denny Lambert - 76pts GaVaHokie - 88pts Matt - “Not over 75 points”

I guess Matt’s answer fits that guesstimate. Sorta.

Why wait until next blog to start taking a tally, when we already have one? :P

For what it’s worth, Dave said he will issue his prediction in September. Personally speaking, I feel we have until 1 October to change our vote, depending on what moves the team makes next. Dave is right in the sense that there’s still a lot of free agency left before we go to camp, and as thus, anything could happen.

By Brendan

July 28, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this

Duly noted, R. Stroz. I have an idea. And Russ is right, we’re going keep on revising the number of projected points right up until the time the roster is set, so … why not just wait until October 7, 2008, to tally the votes?

Really, truly … the season had not yet started, but the roster is essentially set, barring a last minute trade. That’s the time we should tally the votes for the upcoming season’s point totals.

What if … throwing my hands wildly in the air, Joe Sakic, Teemu Selanne AND Mats Sundin agreed to play for the Thrashers. (Uhh, I should have told you to put down your beverage and swallow first.) Wouldn’t that change your point totals a bit? Why not just hold off on picks until training camp ends? No one should be linking back to this blog page. Rosters aren’t set yet.

The Opening Night Budget is still fair game for making picks, however. Right up until Sept. 1st. I cut it off there.

R.Stroz has $41.5 million. Alan has $48.6 million. Bob has $44.0 million. I’ve got $44.5 million. J(Z) has $38.5 million, with a $2 million fine. (I still chuckle at that one.) And Hockey Biltong has $48.0 million. Lots of time still left to make a projection. Umm, employees of the Atlanta Spirit Group, LLC should be ineligible. That’s quite an unfair advantage.

By Alan

July 28, 2008 5:59 PM | Link to this

To be fair, my prediction was made before free agency started, and included the potential signing of Brian Campbell. Since he signed in Chicago for more ($7m/yr) than what we were offering him ($6.67m/yr), I would like to revisit my projection in the very near future. :)

By kracker

July 28, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this

I expect additional personnel changes so it seems wiser to predict on Oct. 10 (if at all) rather than locking in an on-paper number prematurely. We don’t even know who will report properly conditioned or out of shape….it’s the middle of the summer lol!

By Bob

July 28, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this

Personally speaking, I feel we have until 1 October to change our vote, depending on what moves the team makes next

That sounds reasonable. Ok, Brendan, you’re in charge here, I think the NHL season start date is pushed back a little this year, so why don’t we do our final predictions on the eve of our first game, that may be Oct. 8th or something.

Even though we have till Sept. 1 on the budget, $44m is what I’m thinking the budget is for the year, so put me down for $40.6m for opening night.

By polskidawg

July 28, 2008 7:58 PM | Link to this

I concur with Brendan as well.

Budget = $46.75

By Tony C.

July 28, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this

Opening night? I say $48M flat.

Yes, I do believe there is a trade on the way.

Point total-I’ll say 87pts.

By Brendan

July 28, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this

Fair enough. Point totals will be on or about October 8th. “No point ranges allowed, only a specific number will be considered as an entry.” But what about tie-breakers? Or is that overkill? If seven of us guess 78-points, and that is what it turns out to be, then we have seven winners. I suppose.

Duly noted on Budget number changes. You can revise the number as many times as you want … so long as you arrive at a “final answer” by Sept. 1st. Sorry, I slipped in Regis Philban mode for a moment there.

Bob is right that the budget for the year is not necessarily the “Opening Night” budget. Whatever that number is … will be a strong indicator about the ASG’s intentions for this season. I think they intend to rebuild and will only spend more money if/when the team finds itself within reach of the playoffs at the trade deadline.

Huh?

Well, let’s just say, for the sake of argument, that on or about the trade deadline … the Thrashers are four-points out of a playoff spot and six-points behind the division leader. Still with me, in this “beautiful” hypothetical? Well, I kinda, sorta think the ASG would add payroll to chase a playoff berth, if it presented itself.

If the reality of the trade deadline finds us 15-points out of the 8th spot in the Conference, I’d think Waddell will be asked to shed payroll and stockpile draft picks for the assets he sells. Not to get that far ahead of ourselves, but if that reality occurs, I’d think Nic Havelid gets shopped, along with Klee, and maybe even Slater, who I think would be an RFA. Let’s not forget Marty Reasoner or even Jason Williams. All those players are in their contract year, as is Thorburn (RFA) and Larsen. And, uhh, so is Eric Perrin and Toby Enstrom. Enstrom (RFA) won’t be shopped.

By volgrad1985

July 29, 2008 2:42 AM | Link to this

As it stands today, put me down for a 93 point season (42-31-9), 2nd place in SE Div, 7th place in Eastern Conf. Pending any trades/signings, my opening day payroll prediction is approximately $44,328,803.67….give or take.

By the way, what did I just win for getting it right?

By ranallo10 (in AT)

July 29, 2008 5:55 AM | Link to this

I like that volgrad1985 went into the cents…I was waiting for someone to do that.

By Nikita

July 29, 2008 9:04 AM | Link to this

Ah, Larsen…what are we going to do with him? I see the waiver wire or a package trade in his future if he doesn’t open the season with some impressive play. Maybe Ex+ Larsen? I would hate to see Havelid shopped, though — he’s such an asset to the team, and to Atlanta, and he wants to stay.

By Russian

July 29, 2008 9:16 AM | Link to this

Latest news about Nikulin from Kazan Russia 7/28/2008 Ak Bars started to practices. They did on ice and off ice tranning. Nikulin practice with a team, but his color is white. He is playing in 4th line of D-men. Usually he played on First line.Head Coach said that he wanted to see Nikulin in Kazan’s roster, but if Atlanta will sing him to final roster, he is not going to stop him. I hope we are goign to see him soon.

By Bob

July 29, 2008 9:25 AM | Link to this

But what about tie-breakers

How about total wins? So, I’ll say 77pts and 33 wins.

I think they intend to rebuild and will only spend more money if/when the team finds itself within reach of the playoffs at the trade deadline

I agree with you on that, but I think they’re going to look to make a trade during the season as well, before the deadline. What is the minimum amount they must spend anyway?

By ice dog

July 29, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this

Ya know after reading this blog this morning I kinda think that some of the negative bloggers should speak more. But not the same thing over and over again. But new stuff. That’s cuz I like the fact that someone held them accountable the same way they claim to hold don wad accountable. Then the guy bob justifies his bad prediction by saying “but I was right about hossa leaving” Give me a break you guys make fun of don wad because he can’t make a draft pick outside of heatley or kovalchuk but then your big prediction is saying hossa is going to leave the team. That took a whole lot of balls to make that one. lol. no lmao.

By Bob

July 29, 2008 10:50 AM | Link to this

That’s cuz I like the fact that someone held them accountable

Yeah right. You’re a maroon hiding behind all these names. You cherry pick one thing over a year, I make predictions on here all the time and predicting Hossa was out of here was like predicting the sun will come up tomorrow (even though the majority of the bloggers here didn’t think he was out of here and the usual suspect cheerleaders all were sure Waddell would be able to re-sign him).

Here’s a new prediction that is just going way out on a limb here, you’ll come up with other lame new blogger names to try to justify yourself. Face the facts, Sparky, you were wrong all last year , cherry picking one comment about Enstrom doesn’t change the major point that Waddell is the problem here and as long as he stays, this is all just p** in the wind, as nothing else material will change in the success of this club.

By ice dog

July 29, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this

i read this blog a lot and I don’t recall a lot of these predictions you were talking about. Can you tell the rest of us what you predicted? This way you can’t accuse me of being that cherry pickin’ type.

By Bob Dylan

July 29, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this

Bob, do I have to sing “Pi$$in’ in the Wind” again?

Rawhide only compensated me for one performance.

By NASCAR Dave

July 29, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this

i read this blog a lot

We know you do, that’s why BOB shouldn’t have to re-post what he already posted, BRIAN…

LOL.

By ice dog

July 29, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this

how about “she blinded me with science” as bob claims to have this sciece down of making predictions but we are all blind to the results.

By Smoothie

July 29, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this

Brendann — I don’t need to wait and see…I’m sticking with my gut feeling prediction of 78 pts (I’ll go with 35 wins for a tiebreaker). But I do reserve the right to be credited with 91 pts and 8th place if we somehow manage to wrestle Mike Knuble away from Philly!

To Philly:

B. Sterling C. Stuart 2nd Rd pick in 2009

To Atlanta: M. Knuble S. Kapanen (RW depth)

By Bob

July 29, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this

do I have to sing “Pi$$in’ in the Wind” again? Rawhide only compensated me for one performance

Please do, I’ll pass the hat!

By ice dog

July 29, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this

he’s also passing on providing any of those miraculous predictions :)

By ice dog

July 29, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this

he’s also passing on providing any of those miraculous predictions :)

By ice dog

July 29, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this

he’s also passing on providing any of those miraculous predictions :)

By ice dog

July 29, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this

he’s also passing on providing any of those miraculous predictions :)

By ice dog

July 29, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this

We know you do, that’s why BOB shouldn’t have to re-post what he already posted

well there’s a built-in excuse for losers.

hey Dave, if you shouldn’t repost what’s already been posted, why do you keep posted the same redundant things over and over again?

NUFF SAID

By ice dog

July 29, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this

I make predictions on this blog just about every day

gee bob, then it would be easy to show everyone here one of your brilliant predictions. but you aren’t.

WHY IS THAT?

By Nikita

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

Come on, boys…stop this nonsense lest I be forced to talk about the off-ice appeal of the team.

By NASCAR Dave

July 29, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this

Ah, Larsen…what are we going to do with him? I see the waiver wire or a package trade in his future if he doesn’t open the season with some impressive play.

I wouldn’t worry about it… He will be gone well before that time comes… KLEE too…

By Rusty

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

The XM Radio guys this morning have chosen our beloved Thrashers to end up last in the East. Their assessment is similar to Rawhide’s…the Thrash took steps backward during the off-season instead of upgrading from last year, Meanwhile, everyone else, except the Islanders and the Leafs added strength. Us vs. Long Island for the basement!!!????!!!! Blueland may mean empty blue seats.

By Vitamin Z

July 29, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this

Yes, according to the comments on Ak-Bars’s site, no one expects Nikulin to play for the team this season. Hence the pairing of Nikulin - Seleznyov (young player). Nikulin is expected to sign with Thrashers.

http://www.ak-bars.ru/news/3543.html

By Rawhide

July 29, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this

Actually, Rusty - My assesment above shows a total of 5 moves that I think have made us better and only one area, Hossa’s position, in which we have yet to address properly.

My projections for this team are not as dire as Burnside or the XM guys.

By Bob

July 29, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this

Us vs. Long Island for the basement

That’s how I’ve got it pegged as well, might be a trifecta with the Buds in the mix as well. But I have faith in our suckitude to give us the inside track to Tavares.

By NASCAR Dave

July 29, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this

ALAN is correct in stating that I will place my season predictions sometime in September or October, before the 1st Preseason game starts…

By ice dog

July 29, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this

so bob, are you predicting that we will get Tavares? if I can get those other predictions as well that would be great, I am just so curious as to what you actually predicted :)

By NASCAR Dave

July 29, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this

MATTHEW SIDDALL???

By Vitamin Z

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

MATTHEW SIDDALL???

AHL

By ranallo10 (in AT)

July 29, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this

NASCAR Dave — He just finished up collegiate hockey, don’t worry. He’ll be playing in Chicago or Gwinnett.

By Bob

July 29, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

Dave, Siddall wasn’t signed to play for us, that’s system depth and signed to play in Chicago. Fun fact, isn’t Siddall from Waddell’s Alma Mater?

By ice dog

July 29, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this

woooooooooowwwwwwwwww. bob just predicted that matthew siddall will play in the minor leagues this year. now I understand why he calls everyone else sparky. Please bob, share some more with us while I drool at your wisdom.

By NASCAR Dave

July 29, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

Fun fact, isn’t Siddall from Waddell’s Alma Mater?

WE HAVE A WINNER!!! LOL…

I KNEW SOMEBODY WOULD CATCH THAT!!!

He just finished up collegiate hockey, don’t worry. He’ll be playing in Chicago or Gwinnett.

Yeah I know, I had forgot about that pick… His numbers look pretty good… Lookin forward to seeing him in 7 years, or so, aren’t you???

By ice dog

July 29, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this

hey Bob how are those predictions coming along? think you can pull them together by close of business today Sparky?

By woodman

July 29, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

Hey Rawhide, No matter what the Thrashers do they can’t be any worse. These players have to be an improvement

By truth seeker

July 29, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

Ice Dog it is probably NASCAR Dave or Bob himself that are doing that so they will make you look bad. Since they can’t respond to the truth they need to use cheap shots to discredit the witness.

By ice dog

July 29, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this

thank you for deleting those rawhide.

Bob are you going to get those predictions to us today? people are waiting to hear from you Sparky.

By Bob

July 29, 2008 5:04 PM | Link to this

What got deleted? Has this loony toon gone completely off the deep end (E4)?

By Rawhide

July 29, 2008 6:00 PM | Link to this

Bob - I deleated the 4 or 5 multiple posts from ice dog’s 3:23 pm post… that’s all. All part of the service.

woodman - I do believe that player for player…as I listed above…an arguement can, indeed, be made that they are better. Admittedly, that hole in the lineup where Hossa was is huge, however.

By TIMMY

July 29, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this

Bob - I deleated the 4 or 5 multiple posts from ice dog?s 3:23 pm post? that?s all.

But can you delete some of the dead weight on our roster ?? That’s what I need to know ! lol

By Rawhide

July 29, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this

TIMMY gets the “Post of the Blog” award!! HA!

By ranallo10 (in AT)

July 29, 2008 6:30 PM | Link to this

For anyone interested, Craig Custance’s blog linked to a story highlighting many of the details to the salary bonuses in the contract Stamkos recently signed with Tampa Bay.

I assume it’s a good starting point to figuring out Bogosian’s potential contract and bonus structure, since they will have similar contracts. Based on draft position and the bonuses that draft position affords them, the structure will likely be similar (with the bonuses being based on defensive performance minimums).

By Tony C.

July 29, 2008 8:07 PM | Link to this

I thought it was a good signing. I mean let’s get too excited kids! The guy was a late-round pick. I like his numbers though, and it would be a pleasent surprise to hear that he is doing well in the minors.

As far as the Alma Mater link, say whatever you want about DW, you really have to admire his loyalty.

By LAC

July 29, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this

Stroz, I like to 78 range as do others…

If Nulkin does sign and appears here, I believe, despite a less than thriving offense, we could…. could make the playoffs, without I feel no playoffs, our defense IS better, just waive klee…

We still need that #1 center we were all promised, I go back to Ilya’s quote at season’s end… “In my six years NOTHING has changed, he’s the GM talk to him.”

Well where is the #1 center ?

This soap opera has to end sometime doesn’t it ?

By Tony C.

July 29, 2008 10:52 PM | Link to this

Well, I wonder what pivot we could trade for???

By Alan

July 30, 2008 12:39 AM | Link to this

The short version: Don’t count on that #1. See below for details.

The long version: Honestly, we have no real solid assets we can use to trade for a #1 center. No team is going to take a package deal of Klee, Larsen, and a second for a good to great center. Teams will be looking for Kari or Ondrej, and that’s just a starter.

I’m not saying you’re wrong, LAC, I’m saying that we’re probably going to try and force one of our guys to assume the role of #1. White obviously didn’t work last year. He’s a third liner at best, at this point in his career. Slater is going to center the bottom line again this year, I’m almost certain. This leaves Little and Christensen.

Now, Waddell stated that Christensen has the first shot at being the #1. It’s his job to lose. Kovalchuk didn’t exactly say “get me (player name),” he just wants a #1. This could be his biggest mistake when dealing with Waddell and the ownership, since this gives them the idea that we can just slap a band-aid on the hemorrhaging and that will fix everything.

If Christensen or Little work out for Kovalchuk, then everyone is happy. Kovalchuk has his #1, Christensen (or Little) will have tons of top line minutes, and Waddell saved a lot of money by switching to Geico. A trifecta of win. But if he doesn’t, then next off-season is truly “crunch time” for the ASG and Waddell.

As for Nikulin, I believe our chances of pulling in 90+ pts vastly improves if he’s on our blueline. He brings excellent defense and a beautiful shot to go with it. I’ll go so far, optimistically speaking, and say we make it to the second round this year before being eliminated, with Nikulin on the team. Is that too optimistic?

By Tony C.

July 30, 2008 5:39 AM | Link to this

Has anybody found any new footage of Nikulin?

I mean I’ve seen this clip and the on somebody posted the other day.

Not to sound like an a*, but it’s basically the same reel. Now I look at that two ways:

1) Russians need to get more into youtube

2) Video of a poke check or fading your man out of the play ain’t “sexy”-now a big hit might make the highlight reel, but being in the right position to force the attacker to alter their play doesn’t really get people to “ooh & aah”. I look at good defense much like a good bass player: You don’t notice him unless he’s not there.

I’m hoping it’s a case of #2

By ranallo10 (in AT)

July 30, 2008 6:21 AM | Link to this

Tony C. — I’ll take #2 for 300 please. Makes much more sense…how many people realize exactly HOW GOOD players like Zubov or Gonchar are unless they see them score. Hell, even Lidstrom’s defensive prowess is lost by the score sheets and ESPN highlights (all two of them each week).

Much like Stuart’s single goal, Hossa’s drives to the net, and Lehtonen’s great pad saves, a lot is lost in the presentation from media to the audience. Lehtonen is often well positioned, Stuart was pretty darn good defensively, and Hossa is possibly the most underrated two-way player in the NHL (how he hasn’t been at least nominated for a Selke trophy, I don’t know).

Alan — I think that’s much too optimistic…but that’s my opinion. I’m not into the whole “predict the points”, but my guess is this team will wind up 4th in the conference because only one other team has taken a step back (Florida) as the Thrashers have. Carolina didn’t do much, but they were already in the playoff hunt last year, so their step back doesn’t impact the standings as much as Atlanta’s did.

Playoffs are iffy at best, in my opinion. Optimistic thinking says the Thrashers will fight for a playoff spot, while realistic thinking (in my opinion again) means they’ll be in the cellar with New York and Toronto, losing out the Tavares sweepstakes to Los Angeles or the Islanders.

Nikulin is possibly an improvement (I believe he will be, over the course of the year), but he’s no guarantee. Bringing out a defense with three rookies (Valabik, Bogosian, Nikulin), one sophomore (Enstrom), one 35 year old (Havelid) and a player who is coming into his own but is a 2nd pairing defender at best (Hainsey) is not the blueprint for a successful defense (in my opinion). However, it’s definitely a blueprint for giving youth plenty of experience, and developing a team (as opposed to competing with the same lineup). If that were the lineup, both Exelby and Klee could fit as a 7 defender. Exelby is under contract for another year (and still too young to give up on totally), so my choice would be figuring out something to do with Klee. However, until Nikulin comes to Atlanta I don’t think we’ll have to worry about Klee or Exelby.

Brendan — Put me down for $40.7M on the salary cap sweepstakes. I don’t care if I’m wrong, it’s simply my way of showing that I don’t believe the ASG will spend more than the minimum required by the NHL. But my honest to doG guess (if the archive divers could find it) is that the highest the team payroll goes is the same amount they paid last year (the Braves model if you will)…which was $43.647M? No I’m not flip flopping on my number (write me down for $40.7M), I’m just doing the next part of the contest and guessing the team’s ceiling throughout the entirety of the season.

By Hip Czech

July 30, 2008 8:41 AM | Link to this

Just a wild trade scenario…Chicago needs to dump Khabibulin. We trade a bag of pucks for the wall (that’s all it will take), trade a package of Lehtonen/White/Slater/Exelby/Klee/Larsen/draft pick for a RW or center.

We take on a lot of salary with Khabibulin (but hey, we got tons of cap space, right?)…have him as the #1 until Pavelec is ready.

Mark Parrish was put on waivers by Minny-soda. He is a RW, he is 31…but I don’t know if his 20 goals is an improvement over anyone else. But, that’s just the start of salary dumping moves as teams have to get under the cap after all the arbitration hearings are finished.

DW has plenty of opportunity to make moves, either via waiver claims or a trade.

By Nikita

July 30, 2008 9:28 AM | Link to this

Ok, somebody level with me on the whole Exelby thing. I really think our chances are about equal in terms of trading Exelby or Klee, since age more or less offsets production. A team that needs a dependable 6th or 7th in the present tense would select Klee, while a team that needs a penalty producer and lacks depth in their D pipeline might select Ex. But I think we’re better off trading Exelby because I don’t see any indication that he’s ever going to be better than a 7th man on a properly-manned team. What’s with the dedication?

As for White…his stats prior to last year are decent. It’s possible he’s just a bad fit to Atlanta, or was a bad fit to last year’s Atlanta team.

By Bob

July 30, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this

I’ll go so far, optimistically speaking, and say we make it to the second round this year before being eliminated, with Nikulin on the team. Is that too optimistic

Yea, mabye just a wee bit optimistic there, Alan.

As for White…his stats prior to last year are decent. It’s possible he’s just a bad fit to Atlanta, or was a bad fit to last year’s Atlanta team

White’s play last year mirrored his same style of play his previous two years in Minnehaha and production was about the same. I am a little concerned about Coach’s comments to White that he expects 30 goals out of him this year, that tells me they have White penciled in as our #1 center. Oof.

By Hip Czech

July 30, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this

White is a good THIRD line NHL center. I have no problem with him being just that - the third line center.

To expect that he is going to be a top line, 30 goal scorer is not reality. That’s like thinking Exelby is a top 4 defenseman or Thorburn is a top line winger.

If we can land a first line center and a first or second line RW then the pieces fit a lot better. Try to fit square pegs into round holes and we finish 14th or 15th in the Eastern Conference.

Of the two, I actually am leaning towards a RW…unless DW can pull a rabbit out of a hat and land a true #1 center (doubtful).

Kovy-Christensen-#1 RW

Kozlov-Little-Williams

Perrin-White-Armstrong

LW-Slater-Thorburn

I could almost live with….

By William

July 30, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this

hipczech white is the odd man out alltogether. reasoner takes that #3 spot down the middle.

By Alan

July 30, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this

I can’t see White on the top line, unless Christensen and Little both flop in camp. I can see the comments about 30 goals as a precursory “vote of confidence” before a waiver or trade. With the logjam we have at C right now, we have to move somebody. Slater is unlikely to be moved (don’t want another Coburn move to happen, so I think we’re going to hold on to him until the “flop” factor really begins to manifest itself - my opinion), as is Reasoner (we just signed him, after all), Christensen (acquired from the Hossa deal), or Little (see: Slater).

The last time White put up more than 30 was in 1997-1998 at with the Indianapolis Ice (46g). In the NHL, the closest he got was 25 with Ottawa in 2002-2003.

So yes, I consider it a “vote of confidence” and he’s going to end up in another team’s colors. Surely the coach knows how unlikely it will be for White to pot more than 20 this year.

By Bob

July 30, 2008 11:14 AM | Link to this

Guys, our new coach called up White and told him he’s counting on him for 30 goals this year. Todd White is your top center this year, Christensen is #2, Reasoner is #3.

Personally, I think that’ll last about 10 games and coach will demote White and try Christensen with Kovy, but that’s the plan if Coach called up White and told him he’s counting on him for 30 goals, eh?

By glovesave29

July 30, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this

Filppula just resigned with the Wings for 5 years / $15M.

Put me down for the Thrash in 3rd place with 76 points…and spending the ABSOLUTE minimum.

While I am a bit pessimistic about where we will end up in the standings, I am ready to see what Anderson gets out of this bunch. We could be a “lunch pail” kind of team that is a lot of fun to watch.

By Alan

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

Todd White is your top center this year,

Sort of like how Zhitnik is going to be a big part of the team this year?

I understand exactly what you mean, and I’ll concede the point if White actually plays the top line for at least ten games, but White is not our answer, and proved last season that he’s not our top line guy. Putting Williams on top wing isn’t going to be any more effective for White as was having Recchi on wing.

I’m calling it like I see it: A classic first move before getting thrown under the bus.

By Nikita

July 30, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this

White’s play last year…I am a little concerned about Coach’s comments to White that he expects 30 goals out of him this year, that tells me they have White penciled in as our #1 center. Oof.

I hope not. Christensen isn’t too far off the mark, talentwise — hopefully he stays healthy and develops sufficiently.

Last year, when White was healthy and was playing on a more physical team, he had 10 more points — I’d like to see that again.

I don’t agree that Thorburn is destined to be a fourth-liner. I think we have others better suited to that role, and Thorburn has greater potential on a higher line. If we can’t use him on a higher line, we need to trade him. But I think we can use him.

Still no answer on the Exelby thing. What makes anyone think that Ex is worth keeping, or that he might even go so far as to play as well as the average third-line D-man?

Also, is the Dan Snyder trophy a curse? Everyone who’s gotten it has had diminished production the following year — and if so, should we perhaps not have given it to Eric Perrin?

By ranallo10 (in AT)

July 30, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this

Bob — Coach also said Sterling should get plenty of chances to make the roster, yet there’s no room for him as the team stands currently. He said the same thing about Valabik as well.

Coach is speaking in generalizations, and if he feels White can score 30 goals then I think we all know he’s being overly optimistic.

But I think it’s way too early to assume Anderson knows how the lines are going to work out, wouldn’t you agree?? It’s July 30th, not October 1st. The only person guaranteed a line spot is Kovalchuk…everything else is up for grabs, generally speaking.

By glovesave29

July 30, 2008 11:35 AM | Link to this

Slam.ca is also reporting that Fletcher has told Bryan McCabe there is no place for him and his $6.15M salary on the Leafs - with or without Sundin’s $7 to $8M offer that is on the table. If he is bought out, is he worth bringing him here at a substantial discount? I didn’t really get to see many Leafs games last year…but at 33, could he be counted on to have at least some of the skills he had when he first signed with Toronto in 2001?

By ranallo10 (in AT)

July 30, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this

Filppula’s new contract puts the Red Wings at $56.09M with 22 players signed. That leaves them $610k to spend before they hit the ceiling…

By NASCAR Dave

July 30, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this

Slater is unlikely to be moved (don’t want another Coburn move to happen, so I think we’re going to hold on to him until the “flop” factor really begins to manifest itself - my opinion),

Could you please clarify this statement ALAN???

By Alan

July 30, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this

Word is that Detroit is going to re-sign Cheli and Mac. That will definitely move them over the cap. I’m expecting Detroit to try and move at least one roster player (I’m thinking Lilja, at least) to keep them back below the cap.

By ranallo10 (in AT)

July 30, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this

Lilja makes only $1.25M, not enough of an impact really. I’ve been reading Chelios and Detroit were close to a contract since the playoffs started, yet they haven’t inked him to one yet. Perhaps he’s going to do a “tryout” of sorts before they guarantee him anything.

Same with McCarty…I doubt he is willing to get a two-way deal again, and risk being stuck in Grand Rapids.

By Hip Czech

July 30, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this

William…you are right, I completely forgot about Reasoner. So, yeah White would definitely appear to be odd man out.

I too would like a clarification on the Slater statement…to compare Slater to Coburn makes no sense. If we think Slater is going to move to another team and all of a sudden become a 20 goal scorer…well, I have yet to see pigs fly.

On to the new post.

By NASCAR Dave

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

Yes, I too am quite puzzled by ALAN’s statement…

SLATER is a bust… There is no worries of us trading him to another team and he all of a sudden becomes some awesome player… That will just not happen… I think we have all seen what SLATER can provide - Lightning fast speed with an inability to finish… He needs to toughen up, as well…

SLATER is clogging up roster spots, and it’s sad that Donnie is keeping him around because he is a USA/Michigan boy…

Vested interests… LOL.

By Brendan

July 30, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this

Not to defend Don Waddell, but I think a lot of GM’s feel a certain sense of responsibility for the player they’ve drafted. Slater is a former 1st round draft pick, 30th overall, from 2002. I don’t think Waddell wants to quit on the guy just yet. Slater does have a role on this team, as a latter line Center. Slater started to come on a little down the stretch. I was happy to see him get off the schneid.

But really, Slater has to do something this year to make this GM, or ANY GM, want to give him another NHL contract. I think he’s an RFA this Summer. I can’t remember, honestly. But he’s not going to get any RFA offersheets. He might not get a qualifying offer, depending on how this season plays itself out. Slater ought to be plenty motivated to have a good season. His future absolutely depends on it. I’m not sure, but I think John Anderson coached Slater earlier in his career. Anderson will probably give Slater as fair of an opportunity as he’s likely to get at playing in the NHL. It’s up to Slater to deliver.

I wish Slater good luck for this season.

By ranallo10 (in AT)

July 30, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

I think Cunneyworth will help Slater’s development, as he’s molded players like Roy into top line players.

I think Slater will be re-signed, the only thing he should be worried about is how much his current play will impact his future contract. He’s currently cheap and fills a role (while still young and able to improve), thus I don’t see a reason to expect him to go anywhere this season or next.