Ice Man

By ben

August 14, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this

Anderson will be around as long as D-WAD, and not a moment longer. Hartley will show up again in the NHL. He is simply too good to not be left out.

By J

August 14, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

I think the Rangers would have you on the hotseat Rawhide. A-Rod (and soon will Favre) can tell you no matter what sport you play it is a tough pressure cooker to play or coach in. They have been big spenders in free agency which coach can’t say he doesn’t have talent. Penguins Flyers Devils are all tough teams in their division that they can easily come in fourth there.

By Alan

August 14, 2008 10:13 AM | Link to this

I’ll also add that I am a bit surprised that Mike Sullivan lost out on a chance to take over a team during this coaching turnaround cycle.

Fun fact: Scott Gordon took over the head coaching position of the Providence Bruins in mid-season. The ousted coach was none other than Mike Sullivan.

By GaVaHokie

August 14, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this

Rawhide… you hit the nail on the head, you made about every statement I would make. Especially the coaches on the hot seat, which I’d also include Gordon and DeBoers.

I’d say Gordon and DeBoers are set up to fail unless some major changes are made, they’re inheriting two garbage rosters. How can you look at either roster and determine what your style of play will be?

I think Anderson is in good shape because he has all the right pieces for his style of offense and he’s already familiar with the talent… so I’ll give him an edge over the other two.

By J

August 14, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this

Kovy for captain

By ranallo10 (in AT)

August 14, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this

Is anybody surprised Pat Quinn didn’t get a job (yet)? I’m not.

(I know, low blow, sorry)

By Russian

August 14, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this

I know my news is not related with a current post. But I think that everyone will be interesting. IT IS OFFICIAL!!!! Nikulin will not coming here. I got this new from Russian newspaper, which I trusted more. It is not rumor. He said that his life situation changed and he wanted to stay in Kazan. He said that he want to come back to next season. Are still have rights for him on next season???? I do not think so. Now we have to forget about him and think our D-men.

By ranallo10 (in AT)

August 14, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this

Russian — Thanks for the update…it’s a shame Nikulin couldn’t come here, but Waddell did warn us as much when the negotiations began.

I wonder if the translation efforts combined with the IIHL/KHL/NHL issues concerned him (or his agent) enough to ditch the contract this year, and try again next — once his current KHL contract expires.

By Alan

August 14, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this

ranallo - It might also have to do with the length of time required to get a work visa. There could be a backlog of requests in the queue, causing an excessive delay.

I wish him the best of luck in Kazan, of course, and will be keeping a close eye on him with the hopes he makes the jump next year.

By J

August 14, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this

ranallo10 (in AT) will we lose his rights then for next year? Or can we start negotiating with him sooner whereas other teams have to wait until Jul. 1

I don’t buy the visa thing. Players in all sports are coming over all the time. I bet there will be many other Russian rookies this year with visas. Not to mention Germans or Greeks in the NBA, some Europeans in the PGA, Dominicans in MLB, etc. When Dice-K played for the Red Sox his first year there wasn’t a single word about his visa.

By ranallo10 (in AT)

August 14, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

Alan — I can’t imagine work visas being that difficult for a professional athlete. This is the NHL, you would think they have that process down pat by now, no matter the queue for skilled labor in the field of ice athletics.

But, maybe I’m oversimplifying the work-visa process for Russians in the US.

By J

August 14, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this

Even if the work visa thing was a legitimate delay no one here would mind him coming over at the end of Oct. (2 weeks into the season) instead of not at all.

By Alan

August 14, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this

ranallo - Or maybe I’m oversimplifying things. Who knows, at this point? All we can do is speculate. And when we’re speculating, nothing we come up with will be too ridiculous or wrong. We’re not privy to the process, after all.

The most logical explanation, at this point, would be the assumption that the feud between the NHL and KHL got to the Russians, and they’re convincing their people with NHL out clauses to stay put instead of go across the pond. Not to mention next season, he can command a salary in the NHL for what he’s worth, instead of the pittance the NHL allows for entry contracts.

By Bob

August 14, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this

The most logical explanation, at this point, would be the assumption that the feud between the NHL and KHL got to the Russians, and they’re convincing their people with NHL out clauses to stay put instead of go across the pond

To me, the most logical explanation is he looked at our roster and said Nyet and can you blame him?

By ranallo10 (in AT)

August 14, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this

Alan — I agree, it’s all relatively baseless speculation at this point. My opinion is the NHL/KHL relations combined with an “out-clause” in his KHL contract, combined with a Russian translation required for proof of said out clause, equals a shaky ground to walk on and enough to convince Nikulin (or his agent) that staying in Russia is better.

If I were him, and I saw what was going down with Radulov and Filatov (the two big name Russians in the midst of this whole KHL/NHL situation), I wouldn’t risk getting caught up in it and would sit out my current contract in the KHL. The prospect of being sent back to Russia (if his out clause was not approved or translated correctly) and being relegated to 3rd pairing minutes, or possibly burning a bridge with my Russian team…I would avoid it at all costs. If I were him, I would be doing the same thing.

I don’t agree Bob, I find it hard to imagine a situation like this would get to the “translation” phase as was reported if he had no interest in the roster. If he wasn’t interested in playing in Atlanta, this entire contract situation would never have been brought up.

Besides, Radulov played for a much better team than Nikulin would be playing for, and he’s jumping ship for Russia. Jagr is too. Nah, I don’t feel the rosters had anything to do with their decisions.

J — I have no idea if he’s still property of the Thrashers after this current KHL contract runs up, but I fear he may become an unrestricted free agent. There was a guy who signed with Toronto earlier this offseason who was in a similar situation…not too young, originally drafted by another team (Calgary I believe), and signing a UFA contract (albeit entry-level) with Toronto. People with better knowledge of the CBA might be able to speak to that question of yours.

By J

August 14, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this

Thank you ranallo10 (in AT) can you please tell me which player it was. I also find it hard to believe that a Russian player would look at a roster and say nyet based on that alone when one of the names on the roster is either “Ovechkin” or “Kovalchuk”.

By Tony C.

August 14, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this

Russian-

Do ever read anything about Zubarev??? I don’t think I’ve seen anything on hom since the draft a few years ago-any new info would be great (I’ve always thought he was the more-preferred choice of the two).

Did the Nikulin article mention if he didn’t come over because he’s against playing for us?

GO BLUE !!!

By ranallo10 (in AT)

August 14, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this

J — The player was Jonas Frogren, he’s Swedish.

Here’s one link before the Maple Leafs signed him.

Here’s another after the attempted to sign him…I haven’t read any news since this article.

This situation is part of the foundation of my belief for Nikulin’s potential contract once coming to the US (entry-level), and the complexities of bringing over an international player currently under contract even with permission from the club who holds his contract. This situation fits in quite well with Nikulin’s, with the only glaring differences being the nation of origin and the contract ending stipulation (out clause compared to buy out).

By glovesave29

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

Looks like McCabe is off the market once the Leafs pony up his signing bonus…

By NASCAR Dave

August 14, 2008 6:27 PM | Link to this

To me, the most logical explanation is he looked at our roster and said Nyet and can you blame him?

Yep. That’s right. I tried to tell everyone. He was NEVER coming here.

Do ever read anything about Zubarev??? I don’t think I’ve seen anything on hom since the draft a few years ago-any new info would be great (I’ve always thought he was the more-preferred choice of the two).

TONY C. - I asked RUSSIAN that a few weeks ago and he said ZUBAREV is not doing that great on Ak BArs Kazan… Something like 1 G, 2 A, 3 Pts. last season… Nothing to write home about…

By ranallo10 (in AT)

August 14, 2008 8:34 PM | Link to this

glovesave29 — I read that, and I really don’t know how they’re going to make room for him. With McCabe (and without giving up a defender in return) the Panthers would have 9 NHL capable defenders.

I’m guessing the return for McCabe will have to cost Florida a defender or two, like Mike Van Ryn and/or Noah Welch, or I could imagine an offensive prospect might be in the mix in place of a second defender. I’m also guessing Toronto only wants youth in return, and that they’re most interested in clearing McCabe’s cap hit.

Interesting trade partners, and I’m very curious exactly how much Florida will be giving up for McCabe+1 (who I can’t figure out, maybe Ponikarovsky or Bell?? Youth?).

By Alan

August 14, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this

Yep. That’s right.

Let’s not be hasty, Dave. Bob has been repeating that line all summer long, without having seen what this roster can do under this coach. I know I certainly have no idea what’s going to happen this coming season.

However, logic dictates that with all the problems going on between the NHL and KHL right now, finishing his tenure in Russia would likely be his best plan of action.

But instead, people want to make this all about how “lousy” the Thrashers are. And that’s all well and good. Just don’t try to pass it off as factual, since we don’t know a damn thing about how this team will play, given all the changes thus far.

By ark

August 14, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this

just short comments, i read in russia news his words “i like to come to atlanta next year and compete for spot in roster” good luck and hope it will happen.

By Jethro

August 15, 2008 1:09 AM | Link to this

I sure am enjoyin dese Olympics. Evury time the U.S.A. wins the gold, I get ta practice screamin Knights beefur hockey seeson starts.

I hope all you National Anthem purists can hear me.

FREEBIRD

Go U.S.A.

By Tony

August 15, 2008 9:56 AM | Link to this

I wouldn’t say Nikulin doesn’t want to be here because of the roster. If that were true, why blow $1,000 of his own money to get a contract translated just to say he doesn’t want to be here. I have to lean towards Alan that the KHL/NHL in fighting made him back off or he wouldn’t let it get this far. I want to know how much pressure the KHL is putting on him back home.

By Sara

August 15, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this

How about we try something novel….like putting some facts out there?

Sure doesn’t sound like he thinks our team sucks to me. Sounds a lot more like something went down behind the scenes in Russia that is compelling him to stay there - like his club’s management along with the KHL. I only wonder how he intends to get out of that contract next season if he couldn’t get out of it this season.

By ThrasherNY

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

Alan I find it odd that your thesis about why Nikulin chose not to join our club for the 4th season in a row references logic as its basis for why someone like myself, who believes it was based on the currect state of our franchise, is a just a pessimist. Yet when logic is applied to our offseason moves the result is that we dont know a damn thing about how this team will play, given all the changes thus far.

I am not saying your conclusion is not logical and believable. I would point out that many others have made the jump since we drafter Nikulin in 2000 so I personally give the KHL / NHL battle less credit as the reason. I understand the tension and contract problems are not new to this year and could explain each offseason that we hear he is coming to join the club and then doesnt. I just dont think it is the case.

My own personal believe is that it is a money thing. We can only give the guy a rookie contract which is by all accounts a 50% pay cut to come to a place he is not familiar with. Someone like Malkin makes the jump across the pond knowing the rookie contract will only be a stepping stone on his way towards millions. For Nikulin to take that leap of faith trying to make a name for himself on a team that plays defense as a secondary objective…lets just say it is a much harder choice to make.

I guess my point was that just because someone is not overly optimistic about this upcoming season does not mean it is a conclusion made in the absense of logic. I see this team (current roster) as completely middle of the road. New coach and new system being the wildcards we just dont have the foundation to be great. We have a single scoring threat, we have an uproven defensive group, and we lack size that can only be made up with extremely balanced lines (which we dont have).

I would also argue that it is highly illogical to think that a GM who has never succeeded is always on the verge of doing so as one who is endlessly optimistic would have to beleive.

We are in a “build year”. I am excited about our future. We are building from the goalie outwards as a successful team generally does. If we can retain Kovy our offense will not need much work to be a force as he is a machine.

I may choose to watch every game from the comfort of my couch (location dictates this a bit but even last year I went to 15+ games) until we have a comptetive product but it doesnt mean I wont enjoy watching my team and cheering for them every trip down ice.

By Tony

August 15, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this

Sara, ThrasherNY, nice posts. Now I am starting to think it is a money thing too. But TNY, it was only a 1 year contract he would’ve signed with us, so he get his millions a year later just like Malkin. So now I am going in another direction, but it is still a money thing. He is afraid if he stinks it up he doesn’t get his millions. In Saras article, he says he wants 1 more year of development in Ak Bars. Wasn’t there also a squabble about him not going down to Chcago Wolves at all. That would kill his millions for next year. Is this guy not as good as we are making him out to be. Why does he need 1 more year of development, that is crazy. I hope we aren’t being sold a bill of goods here.

By Sara

August 15, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this

Tony I don’t think this has to do with money, or our roster, or anything else other than the KHL isn’t going to let any player out of Russia that it doesn’t have to at this point.

Initially Nikulin’s agent said all contract terms had been agreed to except Nikulin wanted a guarantee he wouldn’t be sent to Chicago for more than 14 days. At some point the issue comes up that the NHL offices need a translation of the Ak Bars contract - that suggests to me that Don met the stipulation regarding the Wolves. So I don’t think that’s an issue. And if it was, why didn’t Ilja just say so?

Nikulin made it very clear he wanted to come here and actually thought it was going to happen. Then suddenly he comes home from vacation and something changes? To me the most revealing thing is actually what he didn’t say - specifically when asked about what prevented him from making the move to ATL, he gave some obscure answer and left it at that. No explanations. Also interesting is the follow-up question about whether he regretted the contract he signed last year with Kazan.

It’s become obvious in general that the KHL has no intentions of playing nice when it comes to transfer agreements with the NHL. And as I’ve said in the past, when I think Russian hockey leagues, I think “Rollerball” and especially after reading that Nikulin interview, I’m truly wondering how on the mark that might in fact be. I’d be curious to know what (poster) Russian’s take on that is and how much pressure the KHL and teams could and would put on the players to “fall in line” so to speak.

By Alan

August 15, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this

My own personal believe is that it is a money thing.

As Tony said, why spend a grand of your own money to translate the contract? He was intent on coming over, so I don’t think (this is an opinion, not a fact) money could have been an issue if he truly did intend on making the jump. Just like our roster couldn’t have prevented him from coming over, if he was intent on spending a grand to get the contract translated.

In the article Sara posted, Nikulin says it was a “life” decision. It’s possible that means money was an issue. But it also means the feud between the leagues is also an issue. Or it could mean that his wife or girlfriend is pregnant, and he doesn’t want to stress her even more by moving to the US.

I guess my point was that just because someone is not overly optimistic about this upcoming season does not mean it is a conclusion made in the absense of logic.

Take a good, hard look at the situation between the leagues, and try to tell me with a straight face that Nikulin isn’t coming because our roster doesn’t mirror that of the Red Wings, Stars, Penguins, or Montreal (for example). It’s disingenuous to claim the roster is a reason he’s not coming.

Whether you are optimistic or not about the coming season doesn’t matter to me, really. And I don’t mean for that to sound bitter or mean. However, don’t let your lack of optimism cloud your judgment. You might make a claim that my optimism is clouding my judgment, but then I will point to the feud. It’s the centerpiece of the transfers between the two countries at the moment, and a problem that may result in Radulov and Filatov, among others (like Krog) not playing this year. So, it is logical to say that Nikulin probably did not want to get involved in that.

You also misconstrue my optimism, and assume that I support the GM. I’m not going to rehash all of that — you can check the archives for my opinions. Or not. At this point, I’ve said it so often that I don’t care what the pessimists choose to believe. Some of the others here on this blog who have met me (or people I’ve exchanged email with) know my position on things affecting the team, after all. And that is the only thing that matters.

By Tony

August 15, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this

Sara, I see whatcha saying. I don’t know if you have officially won me back over completely from what thrasherny was saying. But whether it is money or the KHL fighting I think the only thing I am convinced of is that it is not the roster that stopped him from coming here. No way he throws down a grand of his own hard earned rubles to say he’s not interested in our club. He definitely is interested I just want to know what stopped him.

By ranallo10 (in AT)

August 15, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this

I. Nikulin: I really wanted to go to Atlanta, and when I was coming back from my vacation I didn’t even think that I would skate for Ak Bars this seasons. You could say that it is a miracle that I will remain in Kazan.

Enough has been said.

ThrasherNY — Ilya Nikulin is not the first player to not come to the NHL after being drafted, nor will he be the last. He’s not the alone in the club of players who put feelers out for coming to the NHL, only to back away. In fact, he’s not alone in the group of players who might prefer to stay in their home nation rather than come to the NHL.

Attempting to tag “logic” onto a situation that involves an individual we don’t know is impossible. There is no logic for his thoughts, he makes his own decisions (based on his own feelings, not our beliefs). So, as an outsider, one can only come to conclusions based on his actions and what he says.

He said (in Sara’s link) that he wanted to play in Atlanta. He didn’t say “the NHL”, he said “Atlanta”. From that simple statement the notion that he doesn’t want to play for this roster is inaccurate.

You’re right though, he has been rumored at least twice in the past four years as to being interested in coming to the NHL. The fact that he has repeatedly been mentioned as coming over to me shows that he’s interested, but mitigating circumstances have kept him from moving.

Personally I believe the lesser contract (as you pointed out), combined with the uncertainties of the KHL/NHL/IIHL situation, lead to the ultimate decision that he should remain in the KHL for another season. Clearly it’s all based on my opinion and my breaking down the situation the way I see it…but in my opinion breaking it down to the “roster in Atlanta” is not just oversimplification but evidence of a continued pessimistic perspective towards this roster and this team.

Of course a person is entitled to feeling that way, but I must disagree completely, based on the statements and actions the player has made.

By ranallo10 (in AT)

August 15, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this

You know what…the most important thing to me is that NHL 09 will have Ilja Nikulin, because they will be the first game to include the licensing for the Russian Superleague (which covers rights to a player’s likeness).

So on 09/09/08 (plus a few days for international shipping), I will have Ilja Nikulin in Chicago or Atlanta. Upon the update that includes rookies like Bogosian, I too will have him in Chicago or Atlanta (likely Atlanta). That makes me happy enough.

By ThrasherNY

August 15, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this

ranllo10 My point was to defuse the use characterization that logic is not involved in my opinion that we will be middle of the road this upcoming season.

My retort to your valid points is that we have heard about Nikulin coming for the last four summers. While the amount of coverage and press blurbs seem to be more abundant this summer the fact remains that a guy who wants to play for us doesnt hint at it every season and then balk because of the current KHL / NHL tension.

Alan My point was not that it was directly a roster problem but a money situation. I do however think the roster plays into the descision as a derivative though; much the same as family / cultural issues play a role. If I were in Nikulin’s shoes I would feel a lot better about my prospects of winning a big follow up contract (a requirement for me to leave a decent contract in my home country) if I was looking at joining a more stable roster and stronger defensive unit. My example would be Kari; he would like to not face 40+ shots a game in order to bolster his own contract value, I should think. Maybe it is just the fans perspective and GM’s get caught in the noise but the percetption is that Kari is a bad goalie just because we dont win. When in fact his stats are quite impressive when put in context. I am not saying that is your opinion either but we all know at least one fan who firmly believes it to be true.

One last thing that I didnt comment on was Nikulin’s comments about coming to play in Atlanta. To me that is a non-issue as we own his rights and so mentioning another team makes little sense. Atlanta = NHL to him.

I want Nikulin over here so bad I almost want to fly over and kidnap the guy. Of course I dont have the muscle to do it but alas. I think he is the missing piece that could have made our defense complete and truly great in future years.

By Alan

August 15, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this

Attempting to tag “logic” onto a situation that involves an individual we don’t know is impossible. There is no logic for his thoughts, he makes his own decisions (based on his own feelings, not our beliefs).

Logic is, basically, a branch of psychology dealing with inference. To infer something, you don’t really need all the facts, just some of them. An IQ test is a good example of that.

So given the situation at hand currently, it is quite easy to infer a basis of logic for his actions. His response to the question about why he isn’t making the jump was simply “Life dictated it’s conditions.” This tells me nothing. His response to the statement indicating his prior interest in making the jump, which preceded the above question cited, indicates (to me, anyway) something about the feud between the rival leagues.

To me, it indicates the KHL muzzled him from talking much about it. He wanted to go, all of Kazan’s fans thought he was finally making the jump, we thought he was finally making the jump. And now … we know he’s not. They know he’s not. And nobody actually knows why for sure.

Therefore, it is quite easy to apply logic in this case. You can always apply logic to a situation when you know the variables. The truth may turn out to be illogical (who knows, maybe his decision was influenced on our roster? That would be illogical, given his prior actions), and that happens sometimes - we’re all human, after all. But I will err on the side of logic until given a reason not to.

It’s unfortunate that he won’t be present on our roster this season, but that’s life. Maybe next year — he has indicated an interest, after all.

f I were in Nikulin’s shoes I would feel a lot better about my prospects of winning a big follow up contract (a requirement for me to leave a decent contract in my home country) if I was looking at joining a more stable roster and stronger defensive unit.

You make a good point here; however, I’m sure Nikulin is aware that he would only make this defensive corps better with his presence in the lineup. That, too, would certainly up his value. But this also plays into our favor, as we will get to negotiate a longer contract with him for more money next offseason. And due to the lack of a bona fide NHL-KHL transfer agreement, his rights will remain our hands next season. So perhaps, this decision was for the best. He’ll get to see how our season plays out this year, and we’ll possibly get to see him turn heads next year.

By J

August 15, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this

You are stating that Nikulin will be ours next year Alan but this doesn’t seem to be the case according to ranallo10 (in AT). See posts above for reference. I don’t mind him not coming over as long as he is ours next year to have rights to. But I will hate it if some other team can simply outbid us for a player we drafted and couldn’t sign due to a transfer agreement or lack thereof. So which is it, is he ours next year or no.

By ranallo10 (in AT)

August 15, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this

J — I would like to know the answer to that too. What happens to Nikulin’s rights, and when will they cease to be in Atlanta’s possession (thus making him a UFA)?

My example from Toronto was a player drafted in 1998. Nikulin was drafted in 2000 (I believe), so perhaps the new CBA mandates different rules for these types of international players.

ThrashersNY — Understood, I cannot disagree with your opinion, nor how you would act if you were in his shoes. Personally I cannot think along the same lines as him, as I’ve never been the type of overly patriotic soul who has allegiances to his home country (in this case based on where he plays hockey) as opposed to jumping the pond for potentially more money and greater competition. Many players stay in Sweden their entire career, though they are good enough to make a fine living in the NHL…I can understand their opinion, but I cannot share it due to my life experiences. So honestly, I don’t know what I’d do if I were in his shoes, as it’s too far away from my present life’s situation to be able to fairly relate.

Alan — Now you’re just nitpicking! But I understand your breakdown of “logic”, I think you understood my point though too. What I consider “logic” is not what others consider logic, nor should it apply to a human’s emotions or feelings. So logic wouldn’t infer he felt a specific way without any evidence to support such a claim…or at least that’s my opinion of how logic would work (some like to claim logic without support/evidence, I often prefer substance and quantifiable measures beyond opinion). Anyways, I’m sure you understood what I meant.

By Sara

August 15, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this

Something else to think about in this talk about Nikulin not wanting to play for this team. If he had come over this year, he would have had to play one season for this club and then would have been a UFA. He could play for anyone who would have him. And playing on a bad team doesn’t necessarily handicap a talented player - in fact it often makes the talents shine brighter against a duller backdrop. It sure didn’t hurt Hossa to play here. And I’m sure if Kovy hit the market he’d be gobbled up. Fact is, Nikulin mentioned trying out for the roster here next season. Well, if he thinks this team is so bad, why not come over this year so that in the Fall of 2009 he isn’t having to try out for our roster, but someone else’s? And while maybe he wouldn’t have thought of that, his agent sure would have - that’s what they get paid for.

Money also cannot be an issue unless some disaster occurred that requires him to have more of it right now. He knew going into negotiations what the salary constraints would be. And again, after just one year, in a UFA market as a potentially prime young defenseman, he could command a lot in the next contract. Waiting another year does not benefit him in either of those situations.

Again, I harken back to the fact that he flat out would not say why he was staying in Russia. If it was about money or a personal matter, why wouldn’t he just say so? And if it was just a matter of the transfer agreement issues, why not say that either? He’s been rather frank in other interviews. But this time, he was evasive - twice in fact: questions 2 and 4. And I don’t think that 3rd question was just casually dropped in there. The lack of a straight-forward answer is what has really hit me the most from that interview and makes me think this has more to do with the KHL than anything. That’s just my take on it - but I’m having a hard time seeing anything else in the words both spoken and unspoken.

I get that Nikulin has been an ongoing saga, but circumstances change over time. What might be true one year may not be true 2 or 3 years later. Everything I heard and read in the beginning of this (years ago) was based on money because there was such a huge disparity between what he could have made here versus in the RSL. And he was younger then too - money might have mattered more then. Now, from everything he has said, it’s about the competition and a desire to finally join the NHL. It’s a different tone for him. I truly think, this time at least, he didn’t stay home by choice.

By Alan

August 15, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

J - I may be wrong on this thinking. I can’t find any of the articles I read on the subject in the past, and the only thing indicating I’m wrong thus far is a recent blog post from Specter:

Granted, the lack of a transfer agreement, *the inability under the current CBA for NHL teams to hold the rights of drafted European players indefinitely and the uncertainty of those players being allowed to join the NHL teams that drafted them were significant factors but so too has been the decline in player development in Russia.*

.. because I was sure I read that part of the CBA was temporarily suspended, precisely due to the lack of a transfer agreement.

I’m at work and can’t research it too far. Even then, I’m not sure what to think anymore. I was pretty sure we still had his rights next year, though.

By Alan

August 15, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this

Now you’re just nitpicking! But I understand your breakdown of “logic”, I think you understood my point though too.

I understood your point, indeed. The way I see this situation though, is that we have a few facts, but not all of them. Like in a number sequence, one would see “1 2 _ 4” … would the answer be 3? I know I’m oversimplifying it, but that’s how I see this. We know Nikulin is not coming, and we know the NHL-KHL spat. We also know the IIHF stepped in and suspended six players - including Nashville’s Radulov, Columbus’ Filatov, and Vancouver’s Krog - due to the attempted transfers between leagues. So the answer, to me, seemed obvious. Based on inference, anyway.

I guess I’ve always taken a literal interpretation of what “logic” is. Like I said, maybe there’s something illogical, or a path of logic that I failed to follow… but given what I outlined above, that’s how I came to my conclusion based on logic. I’m sure you knew that already, I just hope others understand where I’m coming from now, when I make my claim based on “logic.”

By J

August 15, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this

Thanks Alan and ranallo10 (in AT). One thing everyone agrees on is that this is a build year. So I really don’t care if he doesn’t come over this year as long as we hold his rights for next year.

Looking at the blueline I kinda don’t think you can add Nikulin Valabik Bogosian all in the same year if we already have Enstrom Havelid Klee Exelby Hainsey. Now Valabik and Bogosian can get the time they deserve in a build year. One of them will still have to sit/rotate as a 7th man but it beats going to the wolves as an 8th man.

By Alan

August 15, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

Actually, sitting a kid as a seventh man would be bad for development. I think Klee and Exelby will rotate as the seventh man this year, while the kids get valuable ice time to develop.

While that remains to be seen, I would be shocked if Bogosian and Valabik are the alternating pair for seventh man booth-warming duties.

By J

August 15, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this

I think all 3 would rotate or maybe 4. Enstrom and Havelid are the top pair and they don’t get touched. Hainsey gets paired with someone and he plays every game. That leaves 3 spots for 4 players. Klee will sit the least but will sit out occasionally. If each of them sat every 4th game that wouldn’t hurt development. Don’t forget there will be injuries too to deal with which means they sit even less. But if you had 3 spots for 5 players you just can’t do it.

By J

August 15, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this

The other thing I should add is that this is just for the start of the season. If one or both of these kids really shine before the all star break which I hope they do and we stick Exelby in the booth for the rest of the season then so be it. Given Klee or Havelid might be the odd man out next year it may just turn out that one of them are the ones that sit depending on how the season goes. In that case I would have to think it would be Klee instead of Havelid.

By Sara

August 15, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this

I went digging through both the current CBA and the last one (since Nikulin was actually drafted under the prior CBA rules). Sometimes I hate reading that thing. From what I can tell, Nikulin is what would be considered a “defected player” in that he signed a contract to play for a team not affiliated in any way with the NHL or the NHL club that hold’s his exclusive rights via the draft. As such, it looks like he remains a defected player until his contract with the other club runs out AND he doesn’t sign a new one. At which point, he reverts back to being a free agent. From what I gathered, the type of FA he becomes is based on what his status would otherwise be in the NHL. Since he has never played in the NHL nor been under contract to the Thrashers, he automatically reverts back to an unsigned drafted player with whom we have exclusive negotiating rights.

Now, that would make it seem as though we get lifetime rights to him. That seems unlikely (although certainly fair - otherwise top talent would sit out all the time in order to not play for crappy teams since by definition those drafting highest sucked the worst). My only guess is, based on the entry-level compensation rules, which notes that a 28 year-old European player is not subject to entry-level compensation limits, perhaps rights are only exclusively retained until the age of 28?? And I think Nikulin is what, 26, 27? So maybe one more year would be right??

Oy - I have such a headache now.

By Vito

August 15, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this

Yo…I hoid some wiseguy dat goes by da namea ThrasherNY wuz in da market for someone who could, shall we say, “procure” some knucklehead Rooskie dat iz named Nikulin…er sumpthin’ like dat.

Any-whos…where can I find dis guy, cuz I think I can help him out wid this sitch-ee-ation…if yous know what I’m talkin’ aboud.

By Anonymous 'Cos

August 15, 2008 5:29 PM | Link to this

Hey Vito,… Could you say that again - in ENGLISH please?! The more i read it; the more i don’t understand. What school taught you to speak like that? Or is that even a relevant question?

As far as Nikulin is concerned, i really don’t ever expect him to be in a Thrashers uniform, or a NHL jersey at all for that matter. By the time he does want to come over here (if there ever will be a time for that), noone will take him seriously because of the past four years. I think he is stringing us along for a grand ride. Anyone remember the old story called “Crying Wolf”? I believe it applies here. And let me be the last to say i am disappointed that this summer’s attempts to get him here were all in vain again. I was hoping this would be the year he finally played for the Thrashers. I have lost me faith in HIS word. Yet, still,…Go Thrashers!

By Tony C.

August 15, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this

Alan-

You read a lot of Hobbes huh?

Re: blueliner scratches-I say let play dictate who suits up tomorrow. It’s the best way to get optimum effort out of your players, and certainly would serve notice that whatever was the reason that medicore play was tolerated last year, it ain’t gonna be this year.

Now if it’s something where Boges looks completely overwhelmed and out of place, he goes back to juniors-that will definitely light a fire in his belly and I would be shocked if he didn’t come into the 2K9-2K10 season as a 1st or 2nd pair guy.

Everything I read about this guy is great. Ultra competative (rumor is that during the pre-draft combine he was talking MAD tihs to the trainers “this is all ya got? Give me a challenge mother**” is a rumored quote), and seemingly very heady guy. I don’t think he’ll be demoted, and imagine the motivation it’s going to provide to our veteran defenders-they’ll know that headhunting/loafing/bad positioning that results in odd-man rushes the wrong way will get you a very nice club seat for tomorrow night’s game. Possibly even a bus ticket to Chicago or even beautiful Sunrise, FL (along with a draft pick and a bag of pucks for Bowemeester).

I would expect Klee to be the acceptable 7th man, as he’s long in the tooth and might very well be more valuable as a player/coach than as a player.

By Tony C.

August 15, 2008 7:11 PM | Link to this

P.S. I realize it’ll probably take much more than a crappy NHLer, ONE draft pick and a washing machine to get Bouwemeester

By ranallo10 (in AT)

August 15, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this

Tony C. — I think you overvalue Boewmeester…a bag of pucks can go a long way to improving a hockey team (as can a washing machine…if it’s a front loader that is).

By Alan

August 15, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this

Tony - Indeed, I like Hobbes’ writing. I actually read some of his stuff in high school… though it wasn’t part of our assigned classwork. Georgia schools, and all that.

You’re spot on about Bogosian, and if the rumors you posted are true, I absolutely love his attitude. I hope he maintains that same attitude throughout the season, and only works to get better at his position.

It will be interesting to see how Bogosian plays Detroit’s attempts at screening the goalies in the pre-season games, as well as if Valabik can come in and push Holmstrom out of the crease. If those two really shine in those games, I see them clinching roster spots with no problem at all.

By Jethro

August 15, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this

Bogey and Valabik jus needta give Holmstrom a good ole can opener and shuve his face inta the ice afterwurd.

Then tell Holmstrom thats tha way we roll now, b!tch.

By ranallo10 (in AT)

August 16, 2008 9:19 AM | Link to this

Here’s a report about a “secret” meeting between Bettman and KHL President Alexander Medvedev.

On a personal note, I love this Medvedev guy. True, his tactics are hurting the NHL product we all love, and could be competition that lures away the players we all love to watch…but I love his balls in this situation. In my opinion the NHL has been acting like the big boys on campus, and have been bullying every international league by taking young talent and giving little to no compensation for the player (to the rights holding team). Now that Medvedev (a Board Member for the largest extractor of natural gas in the world, Gazprom) is in charge of the Russian hockey league and has formed the KHL, he has no reason to balk at the threats coming from the NHL (or IIHL for that matter).

True, Medvedev is being less than forthright with his tactics (mentioning soccer contracts is ridiculous, as that’s the most lopsided system in all of sports, in my opinion), and is rather obvious that his intentions are to gain international prominence for his league, playing the best players in the world. But I love reading about what he says…like the “world draft”.

Good for him…Pittsburgh (and by way the NHL) got Malkin after an under the table deal and shady court hearing in the US. Ovechkin wasn’t much different in his coming to Washington. Why can’t the KHL get the same thing in turn?? So yeah, Radulov’s “hearing” should be held in Russia, and the NHL will rightfully lose the case…just like what happened with Malkin.

The only piece of bargaining power the IIHL has is threatening to ban players from international competition. So while that’ll affect the players and their personal choices about jumping for the NHL/KHL, I don’t think guys like Jason Krog are all too worried about such a ban.

I love that someone is standing up to the NHL and Bettman…I would’ve loved to see his hissy fit after this meeting with Medvedev.

Russian — What’s your take on the whole KHL situation, and Medvedev as the antagonist in this whole issue?

By Sara

August 16, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this

Ranallo here’s the problem I have with all of this. No league should have the right to own a player. His rights maybe, but not the player. And even then, that’s only if the player consents to allow his rights to be owned (ie, if a player enters himself into the NHL draft). But outside the presence of a valid contract, a player should be able to go play for whomever he wants, wherever he wants. Neither the NHL, the KHL, the IIHF, the Swedish Elite League, or anyone else has a right to tell a player different. We all have the right to move as we want, change employers as we want. Why should pro athletes be forced to do something different?

Like I said, if a contract has been signed, it should be legal and binding across all borders. And if that contract contains out-clauses, then the player has the right to get out.

I know from the perspective of other leagues (and their fans) that it must suck to watch your best players bolting for another league. But to require payments from one league to the next is tantamount to buying and selling people and that’s crap too.

Welcome to the global marketplace, for better or worse.

Oh, and about that “world draft” - I wouldn’t bet on it. Edmonton can barely get players to agree to go live there - what the heck makes Russians think these boys would want to go live there?? Not to mention, there is little comparison to the NHL and many of these Euro leagues just in terms of what the players go through. A friend of mine knew a guy that played in Europe for a while in between NHL stints and it’s basically the equivalent of the AHL or ECHL there in terms of player amenities, travel conditions, etc etc - sometimes even lower par. Athletes are going to think about those things too.

By Alan

August 16, 2008 5:26 PM | Link to this

Now that Medvedev (a Board Member for the largest extractor of natural gas in the world, Gazprom) is in charge of the Russian hockey league and has formed the KHL, he has no reason to balk at the threats coming from the NHL (or IIHL for that matter).

Don’t forget, his brother is also the president of Russia.

By NASCAR Dave

August 17, 2008 12:46 AM | Link to this

Did you ever think maybe KOVALCHUK told NIKULIN it ain’t worth coming here, and that he (KOVY) would be leaving anyways???

Let’s get real, folks…

By Alan

August 17, 2008 2:03 AM | Link to this

Not much real news, but Jimmy Slater participated in the ninth annual MSU pro camp this past week.

By glovesave29

August 17, 2008 8:50 AM | Link to this

Dave - C’mon…now you are taking your negativity to a whole new level. Ilya is here for two more years. He has always shown the burning desire to win. Do you really think he would make that phone call telling Nikulin to stay away, when it would mean that the team would be considerably better with him back on D and would give us a better chance at winning some more games?

By glovesave29

August 17, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this

Sundin…a Ranger? Ugh, this….makes me…want to…aaaauuuuuughhhhh.

(http://www.sportsnet.ca/thewire/hockey/2008/08/17/sundinitchinto_lace/)

I guess if he does go to NYR or PHI, they are over the cap…do we get the inevitable trickle down?

By Tony C.

August 17, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this

Wow.

After reading that article glovesave, I find myself in the Ultra-weird, never-before-seen position of rooting for the Flyers….

It’s like finding out you’re a cylon.

I just would rather pick up/through their scraps than NYR’s.

Outside of Gomez, I just don’t think I’d want any body else they have.

Interesting thing here is: What about Shannahan?

I mean, he’s been very cool and patient while Slats supposedly juggles the numbers into a shape where he [Shannahan] can rejoin the team at a not insuling salary-level.

Shanny doesn’t strike me as the kind of guy who’s going to just take this sort of “two-timing”.

I wonder what it would take for him to ride shotgun on #17’s line? His Family is pretty well settled in Manhattan, but flights from here to there take about 30min (flight-time). I know that Philly, Pittsburgh and Newark are even closer (plus there’s the whole finish where you started fairy-tale thing going on with NJD).

Anyway, I’d just like NYC money to loose.

By Jay

August 17, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this

Great list on where the new coaches stack up to the old ones…more from a fantasy perspective though

Check it out

By Bob

August 18, 2008 9:09 AM | Link to this

My retort to your valid points is that we have heard about Nikulin coming for the last four summers

Yep, despite all the lame excuses being trotted out, the basic fact is he’s not here. I firmly believe it’s because he looked at our roster and said, Nyet.

Why? Well, he said he wanted to come play for Atlanta. We know Kovy talked to him to try to get him over here. We heard Levenson and Waddell at the end of last year say they were going to upgrade the roster. Kovy probably told Nikulin this, comrade, we going to sign Campbell and a center, come play and we know Waddell tried to sign Campbell, and Rolston. But, Waddell could not sign anyone substantial and did not upgrade the roster, so Nikulin looks at it (like most of us have) and said “empty promises, me no go to Atlanta again, they full of bad vodka and talk out rear again”.

Perfectly logical and easily the clearest explanation of why he would say he wanted to come, but when the dust settled and he sees what the roster will be, says Nyet

By Tony

August 18, 2008 9:53 AM | Link to this

Glovesave, that is quite a link. I would actually be thrilled if this happened, only because of the possible repercussions. Tony C, Gomez is a #1 center but so is Drury. Buffalo made an offer to him over Briere and other sources around the league said he was the more natural leader of the two. If they bring in Sundin, that is three #1 centers on that team, they would have to be looking to cut either Drury or Gomez. Too much salary tied up in those two and they didn’t mesh well in that org from what I heard (although many others didn’t either). Who among us would cry if Trader Don went out and got one of those two for Kovalchuk. I wouldn’t one bit.

By Ryan

August 18, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this

The fact that they are both American makes them even more appealing for Waddell.

It’s odd that Sundin would make Philadelphia his second choice as they are even more stocked at center with a couple first line centers in Briere and Richards not to mention they also have Jeff Carter coming up.

I can’t see the flyers giving away any of those guys but I can see the NYR cutting ties with Gomez/Drury. They didn’t meet expectations last year with that lineup. They also don’t have Jagr and Shanny’s salary but are still only 2 million under the cap. Jagr is gone but it barely leaves room to get Shanny back. Not to mention a bunch of restricted free agents that need to sign next year. Could be reason for getting rid of one of these guys now.

By ranallo10 (in AT)

August 18, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this

Perfectly logical and easily the clearest explanation of why he would say he wanted to come, but when the dust settled and he sees what the roster will be, says Nyet

You’re right, it is “perfectly logical”. However, his agent said the contract was all but finalized, and even agreed on the dollar amount. The only missing part was the 14 day AHL clause (which we officially don’t know if it was approved) and the translation. He (or his agent) spent $1000 (reportedly) to get a translation. (For the record, I’m getting a certified translation now, it took 1 day and cost me far less than $1000 for a certified copy..course German is easier than Russian).

Why would his agent say it’s all but done, why would he say to a reporter that he had no expectations to be playing for Kazan next season, and why would he refer to Ovechkin (and not Kovalchuk as you ascertained) as being the supporting voice luring him from Russia?

Too much points to the opposite of your logic.

Nobody in their right mind would spend $1000 to translate several pieces of paper, hammer out a contract, and then say “nyet” because of a roster that has been set since before he agreed to the terms of the contract.

It makes no sense, so clearly something we don’t know about happened, or the things we know about influenced a change. Perhaps it was the roster, as you think it was. Or perhaps it was because he read these blogs and didn’t like the types of fans that are in Atlanta (hey, that statement contains just as much “logic” as yours).

Or perhaps it’s the rather obvious things like the NHL/KHL issues.

By Alan

August 18, 2008 10:59 AM | Link to this

A fallacy in your logic, Bob, is that the prospect of Nikulin coming here came after we missed signing Campbell. That’s when contract negotiations came up, followed by the translation of his Russian contract, followed by the KHL rearing it’s ugly head leading the IIHF to suspend six players between the two leagues.

The actual reason he didn’t come here is moot at this point. The fact is he’s not here, and this is something both sides of the debate can undoubtedly agree on.

By NASCAR Dave

August 18, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this

A fallacy in your logic, Bob, is that the prospect of Nikulin coming here came after we missed signing Campbell. That’s when contract negotiations came up, followed by the translation of his Russian contract, followed by the KHL rearing it’s ugly head leading the IIHF to suspend six players between the two leagues.

No ALAN, this story arrived after Waddell FAILED to get CAMPBELL… A few days later the Thrashers brass came out with this story because so many people were b!tching about another Defender.

I told you people this was gonna happen from the start… NIKULIN was NEVER going to come here… That was strictly agent jargon to up the value of his Ak Bars contract… NIKULIN had NO reason to come here… He would make a buttload less than in Russia, and on a crappy team at that… Would YOU leave Ak Bars Kazan for the Thrashers???

NUFF SAID.

By Tony

August 18, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this

My personal take on whether or not Nikulin said “nyet” based on the roster. Would Bob pay a $1,000 deposit for season tickets, go back and forth all summer about where his seats will be located, bargain for a stipulation that he gets 14 extra parking passes, agree to terms with the ASG sales rep, wait until the dust settles on the roster, and then say “nyet” and walk away from that $1,000 he paid? That’s why I would find it hard to believe that Nikulin said “nyet” based on the roster.

By glovesave29

August 18, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this

Bob - most athletes are driven to prove themselves at the highest levels. While a few will follow the $$$ to lesser leagues, most want to prove themselves that they belong with the big boys and that when they perform, the money will most assuredly follow. I despise basketball…if I was elected president, I would make the sport illegal - but that is another matter…but I can assure you that playing against inferior opponents in a foreign land will wear on a certain former Atlanta Hawk in Greece. Nikulin knows the KHL is a good league - but the GREAT players are in the NHL. May not always be the case, but it is right now, and that is why Nikulin wanted to come over.

Ryan - the rumor with Shanny is that he is going to return to the Blues. NYR is his first choice, but that he feels he is being “double crossed” with this Sundin thing and he would not mind going back to St. Louis where he was a fan favorite before being traded for the goon/crybaby Pronger.

If NYR trades a much younger center for an older and more expensive Sundin, I will laugh. They are not that close to the cup to make that move and in my opinion, it will hurt them in the long run. From the teams’ perspective, Philly and Vancouver make more sense to me…even Montreal, but the Rangers? Did they learn their lesson after bringing back Messier a second time when he was aging?

By glovesave29

August 18, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this

But Dave, how can his agent use the offer from the Thrashers for LESS money to get more out of Kazan?

By Ryan

August 18, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this

How can Nikulin’s agent up the value of a contract that he already signed Dave?

Glovesave29 I would never doubt the NYR to make the stupid mistake of signing an over the hill player to a ridiculous amount of money. History is on my side here. I think that Sundin can actually make sense to be a sort of stopgap for losing either Gomez/Drury but still give them a year or two to get one of the other younger guys up and have cap room. And in NY, you know after a year or two of Sundin they will be right back in the ufa sweepstakes for whoever the next big center is. This isn’t a move for an old player for a younger one, this is all about cap room and they can’t have both Gomez and Drury to those contracts, too many pieces to add still. Look at their roster, they have to sign at least a half dozen restricted fa’s next year, and that can start this year on January 1st. A one year contract with Sundin gives them flexibility believe it or not.

By Alan

August 18, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this

That was strictly agent jargon to up the value of his Ak Bars contract

How so? He already had a contract with Kazan. I thought we went through this once before over a month ago?

By glovesave29

August 18, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this

Ryan, I am BANKING on the Rangers following their long established tendancy to overpay for players past their prime! I just think it is a bad idea for them…but since I am not a Ranger fan, anything they do to make them a lesser team is OK by me!

By Ryan

August 18, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this

Glovesave2, I obviously can’t stand them for a numbers of reasons myself. But my ultimate horse in this race would be if we can get a top line center as proposed by Tony C. above.

By Ryan

August 18, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this

eh, that was supposed to be Tony, not Tony C. Point still stands.

By ThrasherNY

August 18, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this

Glovesave29, ranallo10, Tony & Alan, I think you are reading much to much into the $1,000 translation rumor. Supposing that Nikulin actually paid the money out of pocket (not Thrashers or Agent) lets do some simple math. In my supposition we will say Nikulin makes $2.5m take home cash in KHL. So $1k is ~0.004% of his annual cash budget.

Now lets suppose we have a guy who makes $100k per year. Said guy hears about an opportunity to join a new company and even gets a confusing offer letter in the mail to join the company. Since he doesnt fully understand the offer letter he invites a friend out to lunch to help translate the offer letter. At the end of the lunch he doesnt see the value in the offer letter but at this point he has already bought his friend a Subway sandwich (no drink) and paid $4 dollars. By the way this is exactly 0.004% of his pay. There is no way he would just eat the cost of the sandwich in lieu of signing the offer letter he doesnt like; it is just to much money to leave on the table??

The fact is the Nikulin has been rumoured to be on the cusp of signing with us for at least the last 4 seasons. He is still not here. Your premise that he naturally wants to play in the best league in the world only supports my arguement that contract money is the biggest factor in his descision not to come. At the least a more likely factor than the paltry $1k and the KHL/NHL tension. None of us are in his head but I keep coming back to the repeated history… our club has never been a compelling arguement when coupled with the significant money loss (rookie contract vs above mentions KHL contract) and cultural relocation factors.

By Tony C.

August 18, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this

One of the reasons I’d take Gomez over Drury (aside from game-type/skillset reasons) is because of his well-documented leadership skills. Sound crazy? sure, at first glance it does. But I think most of us would agree that #17 pretty much earned the C last season. Now is Drury the type to take the backseat to a russian “Prima-Donna” (bad rep from when #17 came into the league-but it lingers)???? I don’t know. What I do know is that Gomez has repeatedly shown he can keep his mouth shut and buy into the team’s party line. Granted, I’m sure that factored into him crossing the river, but I see less (possible) friction from Gomez over wearing an A than from Drury.

I read a report somewhere that said basically that part of the problems with NYR’s “chemistry” last year was precisely that; it was/had been Jagr’s team, then Drury kind of upset the apple cart, coming in and telling guys what was what. Total rumor, unfounded, sounds contrary to everything I’ve ever heard/read about the guy, but that’s the rumor.

Plus, remember how good Gomez looked with Mogilny on his wing? I reckon he recalls having a Russian bad@ss flying to the open space with a smile (that NJD team really took off once they traded for Mogilny-that second line of Mogilny/Gomez/McKay forced other teams to pick their poison; the “A Line” or the Gomez line).

Nw if the above rumor is just a rumor-hey, I say get Drury. The guy just wins. Littlle League World Series? Check. Stanley Cup? Check. His church’s bowling league? Maybe not, but I’d bet on him.

By glovesave29

August 18, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this

I never thought the translation fee had anything to do with it at all. The Thrashers most likely paid it anyhow. What I do think is that he saw the money in the KHL vs. the NHL and took the higher offer as the Thrashers are bound by the entry level contract stipulation. He is trying to get out of that now…so why is that? It is because in the long run, his salary in either league is most likely going to be realtively comparable, and he wants to play at the higher level.

By Bob

August 18, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this

A fallacy in your logic, Bob, is that the prospect of Nikulin coming here came after we missed signing Campbell

Sorry, that’s not true. The report came out after we failed to sign Campbell. A kind of “hey, look over there!” to show what else they were working on. We owned his rights, have for a long time, Waddell had probably been talking to his agent since the end of last season. So, the details were all ironed out well before that report came out and then Nikulin sees the lack of action and decided not to come, that’s perfectly logical.

It’s prefectly logical because that’s how people think and quite smart of him, Waddell is the epitome of the boy who cried wolf by now with all of his empty promises.

And yes, it’s actually the same decision making methodology I used when deciding to re-up for season tickets for a 9th straight year this year. I used the old adage fool me once when I had the opportunity to re-up for my season tickets. I decided that if I re-upped, I’d keep the same seats. But I decided to wait and see if 1)they fired Waddell and 2)who they signed in free agency and what the roster would be. When July came and went and we signed who we signed, I said, Nyet to signing up for season tickets, because this roster is not worth doling out full price for to go watch every single game. I decided to sit this year out, based on the roster, and I’ll buy some cheap tickets when I feel like it, and believe you me, they are going to be discounting the crap out of tickets this year with how poorly season tix sales are going. You thought last year was bad on how we season tix holders got jobbed? Hoo boy, watch the deals come this year.

By Alan

August 18, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this

Sorry, that’s not true.

It is, unless you know something we don’t. I’m going based on what we know, while you’re going on something based on an assumption.

At least my logic goes based on things we already know. Yours? Well. If you have a source for your logic, by all means, show us what you’ve got. No source? No problem. Just more pulling from within the bowels, I suppose.

By Tony

August 18, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this

ThrasherNY, if you go look at another blog recently I had actually bought into your money argument. I am with you on this, although I took a slightly different angle. What I am really trying to say is that I don’t think the $1,000 plays a role in why he didn’t come, but rather that he wanted to come. But it also states that his intentions were that he wanted to come and he already knew of our roster. To up and say all of a sudden that the roster is a factor after jumping through all those other hoops just doesn’t make sense to me. Why bother in the first place, if our roster was that big a factor in the last 4 years, the guy must be crazy if suddenly now he is in shock after the dust settled. That just isn’t the case I don’t believe.

Tony C, I think in the end we basically agree on most points. Either Drury or Gomez will do. Drury wins at all levels, Gomez can play great with the Russian winger, I will take either of them as our #1 center with Kovalchuk. Where I disagree is on Drury not getting along well. He had no problems at all with the “rotating C” they did in Buffalo with a number of players (I don’t know who the others were, Briere must have been one of them). He fit in very well there and like I said earlier, many said he was the more natural leader than Briere (which I know has nothing to do with comparing him to Gomez). Jagr has known to be a prima donna in Pitt, Wash, NY, wherever he has gone. I blame the chemistry issues completely on him. And Kovalchuk is nothing like that anymore so I don’t think it will be an issue here. Drury will no doubt respect him if he plays with the heart he had last year.

By NASCAR Dave

August 18, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this

Here, i’ll make it much more simple this time…

NIKULIN will NEVER come here, to play on the Thrashers… EVER.

New subject please…

NUFF SAID.

By Rawhide

August 18, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this

New subject please…

OK, NASCAR Dave…here ya go.

By ranallo10 (in AT)

August 18, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this

Funny, the report of “hey look over there” also happened to contain a statement from the GM saying (paraphrased) “let’s not get excited, we’ve gone through this situation before with Nikulin”.

So no, I don’t buy your conspiracy that the higher-ups are trying to somehow “please” fans with the mysterious Russian prospect (who many fans know nothing about) simply because they missed out on Campbell. If they were, Hainsey would’ve been trumpeted as the second coming. After all, Hainsey was signed after they missed out on Campbell, THEN Nikulin’s rumor got some legs. Then we would’ve read reports about how great of a prospect Valabik is, and that they wanted to keep a spot open for him and Bogosian and that signing a second defender was just overflowing the roster.

Are you wearing your aluminum helmet while you read any news about the Thrashers??

ThrasheryNY — You’re right that the $1000 is pocket change to him, but do you really believe that all of this hooplah (on his part too) is all because of the roster, and has nothing to do with the other mitigating circumstances?? If we’ve been going through this for four years, why wouldn’t he have signed two years back (by far the best roster in the franchise’s history, in my opinion), or why wouldn’t he have signed last season (coming off the teams best regular season performance, and first playoff appearance)?

If it was about the roster, he would’ve been here by now…no? He wouldn’t go through this year after year if he wasn’t happy with the prospect of playing in Atlanta…he would do what countless other have done before him and hangup on the GM’s calls.

I here what you’re saying about the $1000, I really do, but it’s just another piece of tangible proof that the kid wanted to play in Atlanta. He’s told it to the media. His team treated him like an outcast (third line relegation during practices, as Russian informed us). He paid money out of his own pocket (according to Waddell the Thrashers aren’t allowed to pay for it) to get a contract translated to prove his NHL out clause was legit. His agent went further into contract negotiations with the GM than ever reported previously, and he even admitted he thought he’d be playing in Atlanta upon coming home from vacation.

Sorry, but I guess we’ll have to agree to disagree. It makes no sense to me that he went through all of that trouble, risked burning a bridge with the KHL and his team, and then decided to shy away without some form of pressure and simply because he didn’t like the roster as it stands now. If he didn’t want to play in Atlanta his simple response to his most recent interview would’ve been “I like my team here [in the KHL] better, and I can’t leave them for Atlanta”. Hell, he could’ve said a NUMBER of things beyond “life dictated it”, and it would’ve been obvious he wanted no part of Atlanta. Instead he kept his response vague.

No, I feel anyone assuming it’s due to a roster is just trying to turn this into evidence for their disapproval of Waddell. I don’t care if you dislike him or not, but I think it’s silly to take such a nonsensical stance just to prove your dislike of the man and his abilities. There’s no proof that Nikulin didn’t want to come to Atlanta (and plenty counter to that idea), so I don’t understand how people can blindly assume that’s the correct scenario for this situation.

But hey, we can agree to disagree, I’m sure we’ve done it before.

By NASCAR Dave

August 18, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this

I prefer to look at facts…

Facts now dictate that was a wasted pick in 2000…

By Bob

August 18, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

Facts now dictate that was a wasted pick in 2000

Yep, the basic fact is that he’s not here and Waddell didn’t get the job done, again. Those are the facts, despite with the excuse makers want to dream up. Excuses are like, ya know, everyone’s got one and they all stink.

Fact is, you were right all along, Dave, and didn’t buy into any of that hype. How you knew that, who knows? I’m completely jaded as to Waddell’s ability, but even I thought he’d get Nikulin over here, but no, he did what is par for the course for him, failed again. Shame on me for buying into it, good for you to see through it, once again.

By Danielle

August 18, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this

Gee Dave it only took you 8 years to come up with that fact. How many years does it take you to make minute rice?

By ranallo10 (in AT)

August 18, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

*Facts now dictate that was a wasted pick in 2000… *

Unfortunately that’s not a “fact”, that’s an assumption.

Fact is that Nikulin is not on the Atlanta Thrashers NHL roster today (2:58est). He hasn’t been on the roster since his drafting by Atlanta…that too is fact.

But it’s not fact that the pick was “wasted”, as he’s still property of the Thrashers. I know you hate to think about it this way, so I’ll word it so you understand. Until the inevitable happens that Nikulin doesn’t play a game with the Atlanta Thrashers (and NASCARDave’s infinite wisdom is proven right yet again) Nikulin’s draft pick is not “wasted”.

Oh, that might be a semantics argument, but you’re the one who claimed it’s a fact…if you want I can pull up the definition of the word for you, since you don’t seem to understand the difference between it and “opinion”.

By J

August 18, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this

“Are you wearing your aluminum helmet while you read any news about the Thrashers??” That cracked me up man.

By NASCAR Dave

August 18, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this

RANALLO - A draft pick that never plays for your team is a wasted pick… No ifs, ands, or buts…

By ranallo10 (in AT)

August 18, 2008 7:24 PM | Link to this

Well, since he’s still property of the Thrashers, and since he’s not yet retired from hockey, I think “never plays for your team” is just slightly jumping the gun.

Due to the way you type I can pick nits all day…:-)

You think he’s a wasted draft pick, got it. Your simplest statement could be “I feel he was a wasted pick.” Or you can keep pretending opinion equals fact.

Whatever floats your boat Dave.