AJC > Sports Thrashers > Blog > Archives > 2009 > February > 09 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USA Few Quick Shots
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
My apologies for being a tad tardy with this posting…I spent last evening with the Divine Mrs. R and the two tax exemption after the game…seeing as I have to wing my way to Miami this afternoon for a few days. Then…I was having some issues with the publishing website today…..blah, blah, blah….
Anyway…I would like to first mention what a pleasure it was to have met Jackie along with her daughter Erin at the game yesterday…as well as Tom, the “lurker”. Also, I had the pleasure of meeting face to face our own Nikita. And it was nice it was to have seen Eileen and SA again after far too long since we were last able to chat.
And now, about the game…
Another Nitty-Gritty Loss To Philly
Someone verify this for me, but I do believe that Nittymaki is a Finnish word that means, “Beater of little brown birds”. If not that, then something close to it I’m sure… because Antero Nittymaki is now 13-0 against our Atlanta Thrashers after the Flyers’ 3-2 win at Philips Arena Sunday afternoon. Philadelphia has taken the last 14 straight between the two clubs.
Mike Knobler reports that the only streak similar is the 17-0 mark that Chris Osgood has against the Tampa Bay Lightning. Nittymaki could match that by sweeping the Thrashers again next season.
Sunday, the Flyers net minder stopped 29 of 31 shots that Atlanta was able to get off on him.
Four of Nittymaki’s thirteen victories this season have come against the Thrashers and he’s 13-4-4 overall with 2.48 GAA and .921 SV%. In the two games played in Atlanta this season, Nittymaki and the Flyers beat the Thrashers by a combined score of 10-2.
Pierre McGuire On The Flyers Hex On The Thrashers
This morning, Pierre McGuire was a guest on XM’s “Hockey This Morning”. When the subject of Philly’s domination of the Thrashers, he basically stated the obvious…that Philadelphia was “better” than Atlanta. “Better” position by position.
Well…(DUH5).
But, even when Atlanta was skating their way to 97 points and a division championship in 2006-’07…and Philadelphia was on their way to the worst record in the NHL with 56 points…the Flyers still managed to sweep the Thrashers that year.
Helping Or Hurting
So…is playing Mathieu Schneider these days helping or hurting the cause in regards to showcasing him for possible trades?
With only a buck-thirty two elapsed in Sunday’s game, Schneids was sitting in the sin-bin for a holding call…caused because, well, he was just flat-out beat by a Flyer crossing the blueline. Later in that period, Jeff Carter scored the games first goal after Schneider had pinched too far up and was caught out of position…leaving the Flyer wide open and Todd White was not able to close the gap.
Right now, I would much rather see him viewing the game from the press box and allowing Oystrick to have more starts.
Ice Hockey…Its Easy As One-Two-Three
Someone needs to let John Anderson and his Thrashers know that the NHL still plays all of their games with three 20-minute periods. The first 40 minutes are not “warm-up” time. Since the 4-2 win against Montreal back on January 20…the Thrashers have exactly one goal in the first two periods during the last seven games.
In those seven games, Atlanta has been outscored 18-1 in the first two periods.
Congrats Ilya
Saturday morning, the Kovalchuks welcomed Philipp into the world. All accounts are that momma and baby are doing just fine. He is Ilya’s second child…joining three-year old sister Carolina.
“He’s a big boy”, the Thrashers captain said of his boy, “hopefully we’re going to give him a stick pretty soon”.
Hey Ilya…can he play defense?
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Comments
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By What?
February 9, 2009 11:34 PM | Link to this
Rawhide or anyone who might know - When did it become against the rules of hockey for fans to bang on the glass during the game? Since about halfway through last season’s campaign, the ushers at Philips Arena have been entirely too eager to admonish any fan who dares show a little emotion after a goal or big hit by the home team (not seen very often in Blueland). For $300 a seat, you should be allowed to leave with bruises on your hands if so desired. Is this just another example of the ASG being completely out of touch with the game or is it the league trying to alienate its dwindling fan base? I was a STH in section 109 last year, and the ushers would tell fans to sit down and get away from the glass atleast 4 or 5 times a game. i sometimes left angrier at that than the team’s poor performance and lack of heart. thanks for any clarification.
By Brendan
February 9, 2009 11:56 PM | Link to this
We’re at the trial of Pierre McGuire’s attempted murder. The accused’s defense attorney addresses the jury box: “Let’s make this trial easy on the tax payers, shall we? My client did it. He brazenly, wantonly, and repeatedly stabbed Pierre McGuire … with a fork, leaving him in a pool of blood. Then, he ate the remnants of Pierre’s lunch, and failed to leave a tip for the waitress, who would encounter the gruesome, bloody scene. Beee honest. How many of you have thought of killing Pierre McGuire in this, or some other manner?”
Three members of the jury raise their hands, immediately. Slowly, a few more answered the call, with arms raised. ‘Til finally, all 12 members of the jury had aired out their pits. The defense attorney turned towards the courthouse gallery. “How ‘bout you? How many of YOU are thinking about killing Pierre McGuire right now? Every person in attendance calmly, and rationally raised up their hand, except one. A teenager who was listening to an MP3 player, paying no mind to the question. The defense attorney repeated, “How ‘bout you, son? Have your ever thought of ‘offing’ McGuire?” His hand unreservedly went up in the air. The defense attorney scanned the court room again, and paused at a woman in the front row. “‘Scuse me, ma’am. Aren’t you Pierre’s mother?” She looked away, still with her arm raised. “He was a terrible son. And he kept a messy room. Plus, he never calls. Not even on my birthday.”
“Your Honor,” continued the defense attorney, ” … I think we’d all like to make our “tee times” today. Let’s wrap things up, early. I move to dismiss all charges.” “Case dismissed!,” bellowed the judge, whose hand was also raised high in the air, as Pierre McGuire sulked.
Now, the subject of 60-minutes of hockey is an intriguing one, Herr Rawhide. But stop for a minute. Pretend you inadvertantly found a document on your Office’s LAN. You previewed the document, in horror. It basically said, “Our Calendar Year 2009 plan is to be bought out by a larger competitor, by methodically reducing staff.” You continue scanning the document ‘til your come to the section marked, “Work Force Numbers.” In it, it basically says, “the retention of the remaining work force will be at the sole discretion of the acquiring company.”
Still with me? How likely are you to put forth your ‘best effort’ into your daily work, having read that demoralising memo? Wouldn’t your very NEXT thought be, “Time to update the resume and circulate it?” Welcome to Thrasherville. Population: Hmmn, about 16-18 guys, plotting their ‘exit strategies.’
By Rawhide
February 9, 2009 11:56 PM | Link to this
What? - I have a buddy of mine that works security there. I’ve asked him about banging on the glass by fans…as well as whether or not security has been directed to stifle “Anti-Waddell” chants or order the removal of “Anti-Waddell” signs, etc.
He told me that the “owners of the arena” wish to maintain a “family friendly” environment and, as such, those who work the event are asked to curb such activities.
Now…can they do anything about 12,000 fans chanting “FI-re WAD-del” or singing “If you want Waddell fired clap your hands”…(clap-clap) and such? No…of course not.
But they can get the occational sign or two here and there as well as try to break up organized “jeers” that might come from the nasty nest or…say, section 119…by sending Thrash over to bang on his drum.
As for banging on the glass…he did say that the Thrashers management and management of the arena do not want fans banging wildly on the glass and that they are directed to stop it when they see it.
He doesn’t know why they have been told to put an end to it…other than it may cause damage to the panels and that it may “disturb” fans around them.
I do not know if it is a league-wide policy.
By sisu
February 10, 2009 12:10 AM | Link to this
Carolina is really strict about touching the glass never mind banging on it…not sure why but what if you banged on the glass just as your team was about to score and the partition gave away and the glass fell on the ice? Who knows if that has anything to do with it but maybe it does?
By jason
February 10, 2009 1:21 AM | Link to this
Maybe if we didn’t have the damn cheap blue partitions up that they’ve used since (the sweep from the) playoffs a few years ago, they wouldn’t get all anal about people touching the glass.
Granted, at least there are ushers in those sections (unlike certain parts of the upper deck) - not that they do anything mind you. I have not been asked to show my ticket before heading to my seat once this year. I honestly don’t think the ushers at Philips are trained how to do anything except hold up the red Puck in Play stop sign.
By ranallo10 (in AT)
February 10, 2009 5:12 AM | Link to this
“I honestly don’t think the ushers at Philips are trained how to do anything except hold up the red Puck in Play stop sign.”
I’m sure that’s an intense training course, especially for the ushers in the nosebleed sections.
By DWTOO
February 10, 2009 7:53 AM | Link to this
I always thought banging on the glass was Bush League, but, hey you paid your money, you’re not hurting anything. Have at it! Remember a Knights player calmly looking at this fan going ape stuff pounding the glass and giving him this WTF look.
Thanks for stopping by the Nest tailgate sunday RH! Was good to see you. Next time stay for more that one jello shooter. There’s nothing like K’s vodka soaked gummie bears in jello.
By ranallo10 (in AT)
February 10, 2009 8:59 AM | Link to this
Burke doesn’t seem to be too fond of Antropov…I’m curious who will bite on him.
If he makes it to free agency, I’d like to see Atlanta pursue him. A 6’6 scoring forward with youth on his side who can play wing or center…definitely a good commodity. Afinogenov is also high on my list of potential forward acquisitions in the UFA period.
By FRENZY
February 10, 2009 9:09 AM | Link to this
What? - I have seen several instances in the last few months where the people beating on the glass were doing it over the lack of good play from the Thrashers and in a majority of these cases the fans in question were extremely drunk at the end of the third period. In that case I don’t mind, the ushers telling them to stop before they injure themselves or some one else.
In most cases after a goal or a good shot on goal I believe it should be allowed and possibly encouraged. Maybe it will get our team going, after all most nights they need something.
I agree that it seems that the ASG is out of touch with the fans. Back at the end of December I was asked to remove my “Blueland” banner from the rail in the front of the 200 section. I had displayed my flag all season including the preseason. I asked why since it does not block anybody’s view or cause problems with the event. I was told I could not attach the banner to the arena. I was using reversible zip ties that did not damage the arena. I had been drinking at the game so I removed the banner since I did not want to get into a bad situation with the arena staff. The other gentleman in the section 100 did the same. He has not displayed his banner again this year and has alluded to the fact that he will not renew next year over the issue.
I reviewed the rules of the arena and they have a nice out clause that says if they don’t want you to display something they can have you remove it. This not a home made banner blasting the owners or DW. This is not a banner made to advertise anything except the Thrashers. I had the whole team, coaches, and Trash sign the banner. I don’t understand how they can have a policy that undermines the fans participation in the event.
I asked the usher if it was ok to attach the banner to a stick and he said yes. I have been using two pieces of wood at either end of the flag; we now hold the two ends of the flag with the pieces of wood during the game.
I bought these seats specifically so I could easily display a flag or banner at games. I am confused why the owners of the building, who sold me season tickets and the flag work so hard to keep me from showing support for the team. It is very frustrating and makes it difficult for justifying the cost of season tickets considering the fact the team sucks year after year and I can get tickets for half price by the second month of the season.
It is no wonder that the ASG can not keep season ticket holders and are having a hard time adding fans.
By Jim
February 10, 2009 9:35 AM | Link to this
Again, ASG ownership has no clue what is going on. More important than a few fans banging on the glass in support of the Thrash or against a bad call by an official, they ought to be focused on why there are more empty seats than those filled. The announced attendance figures obviously don’t tell the real story. How many fans are staying away or leaving early as this “inferior” product is offered up as NHL fare. This is Valentine week, any thoughts about how we show our “love” to Donnie Brilliance?
By AuburnZ
February 10, 2009 10:15 AM | Link to this
Anyone seen the latest “promotion” to get season ticket holders? It is called “Round Trip Plan” and it is somewhat disturbing to me since I am a season ticket holder.
You get 1 seat in the top half of sections 108-111 for $30 per game for the remainder of this season(total $480)and then you get a credit of 1/2 to any 2009-2010 regular season ticket plan (so a credit of $240).
I wonder if they will ever think to give the fans that have suffered through this year a credit towards next year. Guess not.
And regarding the glass, I have heard it is to protect the investment made in the larger glass panels (although the larger panels are only on the sides of the arena, not in the goal areas).
I think the stance is to make us not come to the games by trying to deflate any fan enthusiasm. The point must be to make the team worthless in the court case with Belkin.
By Alan
February 10, 2009 12:27 PM | Link to this
Admit it, the Red Wings are a very classy organization.
Wish Atlanta had an owner/owners even half as classy as Ilitch is.
By Philipp (Ilya's boy)
February 10, 2009 1:31 PM | Link to this
Alan - did you see who wrote that article - is he his brother?
By Alan
February 10, 2009 1:43 PM | Link to this
If it is, I would expect the columns to degenerate into a laughing fit every so often, and calling out Don for his lackluster ability to assemble a team.
No, I think it’s merely coincidence.
By Midfield
February 10, 2009 2:14 PM | Link to this
Rawhide, when a d-man pinches, the problem is not how far up he goes. It’s timing, and whether he is in sync with the line mates. If Anderson plays the system with pinching d-men, forwards must curl back on time to back check. If a d-man has to pinch and back check on the same play, he is set up to fail.
By JJ302
February 10, 2009 3:07 PM | Link to this
I’m surprised I wasn’t asked to remove my bag.
By Jim
February 10, 2009 4:44 PM | Link to this
Alan- “His lacklustre ability to assemble a team”??? How about his absolute inability to asemble a competitive, NHL product. We had only one glimmer of hope in 9 years. He has more than clearly established his inability to perform as an NHL GM. DB- You’ve established your level of incompetence, time to move on.
By Alan
February 10, 2009 4:48 PM | Link to this
Jim - There are a plethora of things you could say about Don. After seeing the same broken record from the same group of people, blog in and blog out, for the past two (or more, in some cases) years, do we really need to rehash all of that?
Put a fork in him, because he’s done. That’s all there is to that.
By R. Stroz
February 10, 2009 5:01 PM | Link to this
JJ302 - I’ll be joining the brown bag Thrasher promotion effort VERY soon.
By Jim
February 10, 2009 6:13 PM | Link to this
Alan- Right on. Thanks. It is clearly apparent that the ASG ownership doesn’t know a hockey puck from a cinnabun and DW and JA are very likely to be around for next year. For now, my chant against DW is suspended. OK, what to do? Let’s assume that the ASG does decide to bring in another experienced hockey guy as Pres. or Exec. VP or a knowledgeable consultant. If I was that EVP, here’s how I’d start. #1- I’d clearly establish a set of paramenters that would be used to measure DW’s and JA’s performance. Among them might be a. Allow no more than 2.25 goals per game, b. Win 75% of home games, C. Retain certain talent- might be Kovy, Little, Espo and Kari or some combination of the youthful core. D. Achieve a position in the top 5 in final East standings E. Move to the second round of NHL playoffs. Then, I’d institute a quarterly performance review (every 20 games to assess progress toward the targets. If off track, DW and JA have to propose specific steps to get us back on track. I assume that JA would have the same process with the players. Those not performing would face demotions. For example, only (+) players play on the top 2 lines and get most of the ice time. With 5+ mil folks in our area, many of whom are transplanted northern hockey fans, we have a good base of current and future fans who want a winner and are not wildly excited by 6-5 losses. Setting a very specific set of goals/objectives would give DW and JA one last chance and the freedom to develop the system and get the players to execute it. Sure, we’d lose some excitment but we’d win. I’d love to see both DW and JA succeed because we’d then have a competitive,winning team to watch. If it doesn’t happen, we get to railing for his removal.
By Brendan
February 10, 2009 9:50 PM | Link to this
Don’t look now, but the T-birds are up, 2-1, late in the 3rd period, versus Tampa Bay.
By Tony C.
February 10, 2009 10:17 PM | Link to this
THE ALIENS ARE BACK
stendec-c’mon give KL a little love on this W.
By Rawhide
February 10, 2009 11:04 PM | Link to this
Sounds like Kari really saved our bacon tonight.
By Spud Webb
February 11, 2009 11:23 AM | Link to this
Lol, can’t hang banners, don’t bang on the glass. I love it. I get people telling me to sit down during a fight. I laugh and always tell them, it’s going to be a long game for you. IT’S HOCKEY not a tennis match. I ALWAYS keep the language clean for respect of others. But face it, here in the ATL, most (key word) of the fans have no idea what is going on. Disappointing.