Atlanta sports, Braves, Falcons, Hawks, Tech, Thrashers, UGA news

By thrashyou

February 26, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this

I like the deal…. Youth, speed, and size, plus a 1st rd pick. Now with that beins said…. ASG open you check book this summer!!!!!!!! Lets get some more talent in here in july.

By Thrash327

February 26, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

First

By Brett

February 26, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

Season over!!!

By MFP

February 26, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this

It’ll be an interesting game on sunday when we play at Pittsburgh!

By Atlanta fan

February 26, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this

Armstrong was unbelievable as a teammate to Crosby….he will do the same for Kovy. Go Thrashers. Atlanta sports are making the comeback. Go HAWKS…Go THRASHERS….and..well..good luck FALCONS

By rj

February 26, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

I am a big Armstrong fan. Now all we got to do is introduce a new word into our coaching staff’s vocabulary- FORECHECK !!!!

By jay

February 26, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

waddell got shafted again. Time after time he gets screwed in these trades. I would want at least two more first round picks or a Jordan Staal would have been nice. heck i would have thrown in hedberg if staal was included.

By Greg

February 26, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this

Why couldn’t we have given them Zhitnik instead of Depuis??

By JL

February 26, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this

Atlanta got a sweet deal, as a Pens fan I’ll miss Armstrong’s grit and Christensen’s shootout goals. This is an upgrade from a superstar who is leaving you in the offseason. Plus Espo may have a good upside in a year or two

By Ricardo

February 26, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

I like the trade just fine…as long as there are more deals coming. Holik = something. Hedberg = something. Zhitnik…please = something.

If we clean, then clean. If this is all we are doing, then I’m not happy.

Little, Esposito = strong down the middle in a couple of years, perhaps next year.

By Siouxsie

February 26, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

Pittsburgh can have Hossa. Come postseason, the guy does a better disappearing act than David Copperfield.

By pbthrash

February 26, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this

Getting a ‘07 1st rounder in Esposito…… and 2 young and talented fowards AND the ‘08 first rounder from pitt is great. Good move!

Don’t forget all you thrasher fans, if we didn’t move Marian now we could have ended up with absolutly nothing, and getting youth and 1st rounders is just what this team needs now and for the future!

Also moving Dupuis is no big loss, he is no better than a third liner anyhow, and thats what Sterling or Little will be on ‘08.

Oh and by the way, if Pittsburgh doesn’t ink him to a long term deal, he is an unrestristced FA that we could even sign back!

Excellent Move!

By hockey coach

February 26, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this

Dumb move. Two 3rd line players and a prospect who may never pan out for a elite player and then we give away Dupuis. Either Wadell is stupid or the upper brass is trimming payroll. No one wanted Holik. He is overpaid and slow. Moose and Rech have some value but nothing was done there. Kovy is hurt and we do not have another scorer on the team. This season is most likely over.

By jl

February 26, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

You guys are stupid and clearly do not have any knowledge, wait and see guys

By jl

February 26, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

You guys are stupid and clearly do not have any hockey knowledge, wait and see guys

By kreedham

February 26, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this

I hope Don told Dupris that it wasn’t personal and that we want you back come free agency time!

By tox

February 26, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this

Colby Armstrong is a great toughnosed character guy who had great chemistry with Crosby and Christensen has some great speed and skill (needs more consistency). Both are as good as Dupuis and have more upside than him. Esposito may be a bust in the long run, but he was at one point the pick of his draft class, and certainly could be developed into a strong player. Too bad Atlanta is more concerned about protecting Anderson’s hockey fiefdom in Chicago than getting guys ready for the NHL.

This trade is WAY better than anything rumored from Montreal. Good job, DW!!!

But why wasn’t Holik moved? I thought that was why Little was called up today???

By luckydog

February 26, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this

I said it back in October and I’ll say it again: Even in an off-year for him, Hossa was a man among boys on this crew of pluggers CoachWad put together.

Thanks, Marian. It was a pleasure watching you play for the home team. I’ll be pulling for the Pens to go deep in the playoffs…

By Murf

February 26, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this

Agree with Brett that 2008 is over - but that happened after 3 loses in a row and not because of one deal. We get younger plus two first round picks in Esposito and whatever our next GM can pick up in the draft sounds right. Season tickets will be worth it in 3 seasons.

By Kelly

February 26, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this

Where can I get a PENS Jersey with Hossa on the back?

By rex

February 26, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this

the ONLY way this is a good deal is if Waddell re-signs Hoss the way St. Louis did Keith Tkchuk. IF Hoss comes back thinking Armstrong / Christensen / Esposito is the infusion of youth/talent/speed the Thrashers needed, and then plays with the players he was traded for, I will call Waddell a genius and take back all I have said about him…If not, then this is just another cheap payroll-driven move to dump salary ! Don…you cannot win a CUP on the cheap !

By Thrash1

February 26, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this

Hmm, DW got youth, I wonder how long until he sends them packing to the Wolves, and finds some more old guys to cash paychecks…

By Elliot Garcia

February 26, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this

Hossa was half the player Heatley is

By Blueline

February 26, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this

I would have liked to have seen DW get some help for the blueline since that has been the weak link for the franchise from day one and we obviously don’t have anyone worthwhile in the system to bring up.

Other than that, I’m glad to get younger. Kovy is the franchise. ASG will not pay 2 Elite players. Find a handful of 2.5 - 4 mil players that compliment him and the blueline and everything will be fine.

By puck it

February 26, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this

Raise your hand if you think DW will be back next year.

By Ilya k

February 26, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this

If we could just unload Kovy the whole team would be 3rd and 4th liners. Kari will get better facing 60 shots a night from here on out. Miracle on ice 2…dw leads 3rd and 4th liners to stanley cup champs. I can’t wait. ya ya I know Hoss was going to leave anyway…..Why?….because it gets old playing for the worst team in the leauge!!!!!!!!!

By GaVaHokie

February 26, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

I’m scared to see our shots on net tonight… we’ll be lucky to have 10 shots all game against a team that just got screwed out of Marian Hossa.

Long-term, the trade was good, but I’m not sure if this is the deal that keeps us in the playoff race.

By Hockey Biltong

February 26, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this

Bring on the draft!!!Let Dealin’Don get rid of ZHit and other slug Dmen.

By Plenty of Tickets Next Year

February 26, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this

Interesting move… Three good young guys that play hard and can see over the half wall…and another first round pick.

Trouble is, we have trouble drafting well - no defense, we’re getting out shot every night - (except for 4 nights this year), we’re already young and we get pushed around a couple of times a week.

The balance of power in the Southeast has shifted. Pittsburgh and DC improved their chances today and Tampa got a goal tender.

We’re third this year and third next year. The good news is - there will be plenty of tickets available at deeply discounted prices.

It’s really a shame.

By Brendan

February 26, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this

Hey, there will be no booing of Marian Hossa. This wasn’t his fault. The season ended with three (3) losses to middling teams like the Islanders, ‘Canes, and Maple Leafs. It displayed is “heart” and “desire” in those losses. This Hossa trade was all about building for the future. And I like it! Christensen is a 3rd line player … IN PITTSBURGH. But in Atlanta, he’s a 2nd line player. Angelo Esposito is a very solid prospect. Fantastic pick up, far better than what Waddell has ever drafted from past the 12th overall pick. Colby Armstrong will bring Atlanta some much needed grit and fire. He’ll be able to play on the 2nd line here in Atlanta.

Christensen is a shootout specialist, as well. Plus, we get another 1st round draft pick. Granted, it’ll be somewhere between #20 and #30 overall, but hey … in capable hands, a GM can find something. Or, in the case of Waddell, he can trade the pick for an NHL player off some desperate team’s roster, preferably a serviceable defenseman.

I like this trade. It will net us four (4) players, potentially, in our starting lineup. Folks who don’t like this trade will fall into this category: Delusional that Hossa was coming back. He wasn’t. That’s been clear for AGES now. DW allowed the next GM to have a shot at building a deeper, faster, tougher lineup.

Why on EARTH Don Waddell didn’t complete the “firesale” by unloading Holik, Moose, Recchi, and McCarthy, I guess I’ll never know. This was NOT a move to “salvage” the season.

Folks, the season is over. Like I said, it ended with 0-6 points vs. the Isles, ‘Canes, and Buds. If you can’t see that … well, perhaps you’re delusional.

Good job, Don Waddell. You acted responsibly. And who knows, because of it, you just might land yourself another gig in the NHL.

Marian, thanks for the memories. Your 100-point season in 2007 was majestic. You never chose Atlanta, but you made the most of it. Good luck in Pittsburgh and winning the Cup this year. I wish Hossa nothing but the best.

By Ilya k

February 26, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this

Elliot Garcia

February 26, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this

Hossa was half the player Heatley is

yep, at the end of the day we got Armstrong and Christensen for Heatley.

By KLS1

February 26, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this

We’re looking good…just not this year.

By Andrew

February 26, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this

The deal looks ok to me, considering everyone knew that Hossa was trade bait.

On another note, I appreciate Hossa recognizing the city and the fans… not some backhanded trash talk like we got from Heatley. Hossa is a classy player that will be well received when he returns to Atlanta. Cheers Marian.

By MB

February 26, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

C’mon folks, the “playoff race” has been over for some time. Even with Hossa, did you really want to see this team get waxed in the playoffs.

This isn’t exactly an “oh wow!”-type move. It’s more of a “we’ll see after a couple of years” one.

We get two roster players who are young and have some upside, a decent prospect, and another 1st rounder in a deep draft. Considering that Hoss was leaving anyway, not bad.

My disappointment is with what wasn’t done today…no Holik move, no Recchi move, no Hedberg move.

By Ilya k

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

We were not in the playoff race and won’t be for a long time.

By bake

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

i don’t have a problem with the trade. i have a problem with the fact that we’ve been in the league for 9 years now and all we have to show for that is one playoff appearance in which we got our a*******es kicked. time for a change at the top. how can we as fans realistically think that after 9 years of this the 10th will be any better?!?!?!

By timthebrave

February 26, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this

I realize that this MAY help us for the future. Without Hossa maybe the Thrashers can start playing like a TEAM now. On second thought…..when does baseball season start

By Talon

February 26, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

Gut says…. Ehhhhhh

By Steve

February 26, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this

This was a terrible deal for Atlanta. We are only 7 points behind Carolina for the division lead, with two more games to play then they have. We end the season with a slew of games in the division and a chance to extend a lead, if we could ever get one.

Trading Hossa now was stupid. Not only will we not make the playoffs this year, but we won’t make them for at least the next three. Armstrong and Christensen are solid players, but they are not playoff quality. I thought we were playing for the present and not for ten years down the road. Again another wonderful trade Don. Maybe put finding a new coach next on your list.

This team could be good if they would spend money. Hossa would have stayed in Atlanta if the team would have actually been willing to pay him what he was worth. Don’t worry, we will now have the cap room this summer and won’t do anything but sign a bunch of mediocre players.

By GaVaHokie

February 26, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

In a minor deal, Atlanta traded Giroux back to Washington for Joe Motzko… Waddell just HAD to get a minor league deal in there somewhere. :)

By Ilya k

February 26, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this

building for the future. And I like it! Christensen is a 3rd line player � IN PITTSBURGH. But in Atlanta, he�s a 2nd line player. anyone is a second line player in atl. Building for the future???????? So what the puck was dw doing the last nine years. If he was’nt building for the future then was he building for the past. Is this what the future will look like in 9 more years. What will change?

By ATLNOLE

February 26, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this

Waddell made lemons out of lemonade. Better to get some talent for Hossa now considering there wasnt any way he was going to resign here anyway. It doesnt really change the fact that this season is a massive disappointment!!!

By satbod

February 26, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this

Agree that Hossa was half the player Heatley was; these guys in aggregate are half the payer Hossa was. so where does that leave us, another Waddell 5,10,15-year plan? This franchise doesn’t have the ownership or the management to succeed!

By satbod

February 26, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this

Agree that Hossa was half the player Heatley was; these guys in aggregate are half the player Hossa was. so where does that leave us, another Waddell 5,10,15-year plan? This franchise doesn’t have the ownership or the management to succeed!

By satbod

February 26, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this

Agree that Hossa was half the player Heatley was; these guys in aggregate are half the player Hossa was. so where does that leave us, another Waddell 5,10,15-year plan? This franchise doesn’t have the ownership or the management to succeed!

By Nathan

February 26, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this

It’s been a long time since I’ve been on here but this is my take on the Hossa deal.

Overall trade grade for Thrashers: B

Hossa is a phenomenal talent that often amazes us with his ability to dance around opposing players and at any moment give us that highlight reel goal. HOWEVER, it was clear from day 1 that Hossa did not want to be here and anyone that did not see that 20 games into the season unfortunately should have their vision checked. He was playing dispassionate hockey and even though he played hurt in the playoffs last year, he certainly did little to rid himself of the label of poor playoff performer.

Now as to Christensen, Armstrong, Esposito and the Pens 1st Round Pick this year. Was this enough for Hossa? I don’t know only time will tell but in my honest opinion I think Waddell got as much as he possibly good and he certainly did not get hosed either. Question, other than the blue line where have the Thrashers been weak all year and for the past 2 years. The center position. In Christensen and Esposito we get two young centers with Esposito having the most upside. Armstrong is a good young power forward that will go to all areas of the ice and has the skill to put the puck in the net. Now alot of you will say Christensen and Armstrong are 3rd liners but who cares? Does anyone remember the Buffalo model of two years ago? Speed, youth, skill, all of which we acquired. Don’t forget we Little most likely more ready to make a name for himself next year giving Kovy a legit center. We also will now have 2 First Round Picks this year. What does that add up too? Depth. Thus, in the end Hossa was fun to watch and it is sad to see him go. That being said I truly believe that by freeing up this cap space, getting younger, faster and more skilled as a team as whole will only help this team in the future. Look forward to all of your guys thoughts.

By Russ

February 26, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this

I posted this on another blog and didn’t want to have to redo it all:

I had previously said this would be the proper return for Hossa: A young, established NHL�er at forward and one on D. One of which should already be a borderline all-star, the other someone capable of developing into a top two line player. Plus, a high end pick or prospect. Armstrong qualifies as a young established forward that in my opinion isn�t far from being an all-star (check). Christiensen, first of all isn�t a d-man, and second of all I�m not sure he�ll develop into more than a third line player�we�ll see. Espositio = high end prospect (check). If you figure that is the return for Hossa, I think they came up a little short, but if you move Dupuis in a separate trade, he would probably fetch about a third or fourth rounder, so getting the first rounder in a deep draft is fantastic. Overall, my only complaint about the trade is that none of the players/prospects are on defense, which is perenially the Thrashers weak spot. If you are looking for a winner or loser in this trade, in my opinion, the keys will be if Hossa re-signs with Pittsburgh, and how Christiensen develops. If Hossa resigns with Pittsburgh or helps them win the Cup this season, you have to go with Pittsburgh. If they fall short in the playoffs and Hoss leaves in the Summer, while Christiensen becomes a legitimate #2 center and Esposito eventually becomes a top six forward, then the Thrashers come out smelling like roses.

Is this DW�s last transaction as Thrashers GM?

By Nathan

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

It’s been a long time since I’ve been on here but this is my take on the Hossa deal.

Overall trade grade for Thrashers: B

Hossa is a phenomenal talent that often amazes us with his ability to dance around opposing players and at any moment give us that highlight reel goal. HOWEVER, it was clear from day 1 that Hossa did not want to be here and anyone that did not see that 20 games into the season unfortunately should have their vision checked. He was playing dispassionate hockey and even though he played hurt in the playoffs last year, he certainly did little to rid himself of the label of poor playoff performer.

Now as to Christensen, Armstrong, Esposito and the Pens 1st Round Pick this year. Was this enough for Hossa? I don’t know only time will tell but in my honest opinion I think Waddell got as much as he possibly good and he certainly did not get hosed either. Question, other than the blue line where have the Thrashers been weak all year and for the past 2 years. The center position. In Christensen and Esposito we get two young centers with Esposito having the most upside. Armstrong is a good young power forward that will go to all areas of the ice and has the skill to put the puck in the net. Now alot of you will say Christensen and Armstrong are 3rd liners but who cares? Does anyone remember the Buffalo model of two years ago? Speed, youth, skill, all of which we acquired. Don’t forget we Little most likely more ready to make a name for himself next year giving Kovy a legit center. We also will now have 2 First Round Picks this year. What does that add up too? Depth. Thus, in the end Hossa was fun to watch and it is sad to see him go. That being said I truly believe that by freeing up this cap space, getting younger, faster and more skilled as a team as whole will only help this team in the future. Look forward to all of your guys thoughts.

By Ilya k

February 26, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

owner’s sux + gm sux = team sux

which part do you folks not understand?

By andy

February 26, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this

I don’t care about Hockey. I hope ASG sells the hockey team so we don’t have worry about anymore. Who the hell is Hossa anyway? Falcons, please draft Mcfadden.

By GaVaHokie

February 26, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this

Who is Joe Motzko, you might ask? Check out Highlight #8 for the Stanley Cup push last year.

By JB

February 26, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this

What else would you expect from a team owned by the Clampets, commonly referred to as the ASG?

Any one want some really nice center ice seats? Mine will be available next year.

Sell the team Jed’s.

By Loquacious

February 26, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this

All this Hairy Potter talk !! While an innocent man Mike Vick sits in prison !!!!

FREE VICK YO !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Brendan

February 26, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this

Welcome back, Nathan. It’s been quite a while since your last blog post. How is law school treating you?

I liked your post. I’m a big fan of the “Sabres model,” where you roll four lines, something close to equally, and overwhelm the other team with “team speed” and “depth.” As it is difficult for a market to attract top name Free Agents without being a “Cup contender,” I think Atlanta’s situation lends itself well to the “Buffalo model,” where you mostly need 10-11 guys who each score 20 goals. And work on DEFENSE!

As poster RUSS has suggested, “it’s time to start improving our defense.” That should be the offseason goal. Let’s size it up a bit. Zhitnik, Havelid, Exelby, Enstrom, and Klee are under contract. McCarthy is a UFA. Popovic is an RFA. Havelid is probably our best “bargaining chip” in an offseason trade. But, a case can be made for young Popovic, as well. If Atlanta trade the newly acquired from Pittsburgh 1st round pick and Popovic as a package deal, it could land a half-way decent blueliner. Probably not Brian Campbell, mind you. But there will be options. As long as it’s not 39-year old M. Schneider and his $5 million, I think we can breath easier. If we target a team that has lots of expensive d-man depth, offering Pops and a 1st rounder might solve both teams’ problems.

By bob

February 26, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

pretty good deal, considering we got all of that, basically, for Dupuis. Hossa wasn’t coming back anyway. Nice move, let’s make something of the draft pick this time.

By WW4

February 26, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this

GOODBYE HOSER, THANKS FOR YOUR EFFORTS (EXCEPT THIS YEAR). PS. DON’T KNOW HOW MANY SHOTS LETEMIN WILL SEE TONIGHT, BUT I KNOW AT LEAST 3 WILL FIND THE BACK OF THE NET.

By cobbdawg

February 26, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

I like Hossa, but we were not going to playoffs with him, so good deal that had to be done business wise. Good upside, and Esposito is a #1 pick himsself, so basically two first rounders in deal.

By cobbdawg

February 26, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this

meant to add…now we need to promote McCrimmon to HC and coach them up!

By bob (other)

February 26, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this

This is a graet deal for us and shows that DW is a very capable GM. WE get rid of a player that doesn’t want to be here, free up $7Million and keep it along the high road by giving him a chance with a contender. We get two solid players in retern, both with grit and some skill, thus our forecheck should be better. Both are former #1 and 2 picks. In Espo, we get a talent with big upside (another #1) and their #1 in this year’s deep draft. Bascically 3 number 1’s and a 2nd for two rentals.

Hossa will most likely do his typical disappearing act in the postseason, but we’ll just see. I hope for his and his new teams’s sake that is not the case.

We can still make a push and frankly I think we are better immediately with this deal.

For the detractors, DW isn’t going anywhere.

By Dawgbyte

February 26, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this

They couldn’t sign him. They had to trade him, to get anything. And they did. End of story.

By mdickins

February 26, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this

I just told my 4 1/2 yr old that Hossa was no longer a Thrasher. He cried all the way home from school and he’s already taken his poster off his wall. Heartbreaking to a young Hossa fan. (he even has a #18 on his bike.) Personally, I hate to see the family’s favorite player go, but I also hate watching the team loose the way they do. (being outshot by 30 a game is never fun to watch). I don’t know too much about the guys from Pitt, but I hope it works out. It’s going to be hard seeing Hoss in black and gold. Well, as far as the number on the bike goes…we’ll just have to cover up the 8 with a 7.

By mdickins

February 26, 2008 5:38 PM | Link to this

I just told my 4 1/2 yr old that Hossa was no longer a Thrasher. He cried all the way home from school and he’s already taken his poster off his wall. Heartbreaking to a young Hossa fan. (he even has a #18 on his bike.) Personally, I hate to see the family’s favorite player go, but I also hate watching the team loose the way they do. (being outshot by 30 a game is never fun to watch). I don’t know too much about the guys from Pitt, but I hope it works out. It’s going to be hard seeing Hoss in black and gold. Well, as far as the number on the bike goes…we’ll just have to cover up the 8 with a 7.

By mdickins

February 26, 2008 5:38 PM | Link to this

I just told my 4 1/2 yr old that Hossa was no longer a Thrasher. He cried all the way home from school and he’s already taken his poster off his wall. Heartbreaking to a young Hossa fan. (he even has a #18 on his bike.) Personally, I hate to see the family’s favorite player go, but I also hate watching the team loose the way they do. (being outshot by 30 a game is never fun to watch). I don’t know too much about the guys from Pitt, but I hope it works out. It’s going to be hard seeing Hoss in black and gold. Well, as far as the number on the bike goes…we’ll just have to cover up the 8 with a 7.

By mdickins

February 26, 2008 5:40 PM | Link to this

I just told my 4 1/2 yr old that Hossa was no longer a Thrasher. He cried all the way home from school and he’s already taken his poster off his wall. Heartbreaking to a young Hossa fan. (he even has a #18 on his bike.) Personally, I hate to see the family’s favorite player go, but I also hate watching the team loose the way they do. (being outshot by 30 a game is never fun to watch). I don’t know too much about the guys from Pitt, but I hope it works out. It’s going to be hard seeing Hoss in black and gold. Well, as far as the number on the bike goes…we’ll just have to cover up the 8 with a 7.

By JLB

February 26, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this

Everyone is saying that we got a great deal with all these young players. Frankly, I’m sick and tired of hearing DWad speaking out of only the side of his mouth saying, “We’re building for the future”. I think that we’ve given DWad MORE than ample time to build a hockey team… so, where the hell is it?!

By Fred

February 26, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this

I can’t believe some of you people are even referencing that this deal had anything to do with this year. I sure hope I’m wrong, but they are playing like crap and 7 points behind the ‘canes, who are playing very good hockey. We will have the exact same chance to resign Hossa in the off season as we would have if we didn’t trade him - NONE. He wants the money, we don’t have the money, he’s gone - live with it. Four youngsters to possibly breathe some life into this dead bunch (two now, two later) is what we need - energetic kids that can develop. Just who do you think is going to be replacing Holik, Zhitnik and the like when they are gone next year? Players such as these!

By terence moore

February 26, 2008 5:51 PM | Link to this

Who gives a crap. it’s hockey!!

By Fred

February 26, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this

And here is something I haven’t seen anybody mention. If we shelled out the money it would take to keep Hossa, there is no way in hell we would have a chance at resigning Kovy when his contract is up in a couple years. That’s the player they CAN’T let get away.

By Mariangone

February 26, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this

This is a good deal. Hossa was walking at the end of the year, with nothing coming back when he left. To get essentially two first rounders, plus NHL seasoned players in return is very big. The Thrashers won’t make the playoffs this year, but just wait, they’re building for the near future.

Go Thrashers!

By gttim

February 26, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this

I’m still hurting that we didn’t re-sign Savard. Give me time to get over that, maybe a few more years, and I will get back to you about this move.

By MB

February 26, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this

cobbdawg, you’re spot on that we weren’t going to the playoffs even with Hossa, but I have to disagree with you about McCrimmon.

Our defense has stunk since he’s been here (and, in all fairness, before), a condition that some have said reflected more on Bob Hartley than on Beast. I don’t buy that completely, but there’s no knowing to what degree that’s true.

Since Hartley’s departure, you have to believe that McCrimmon’s had far greater influence on the team and how it plays, and frankly, it hasn’t been pretty. The defense has been as bad as at any point in franchise history, overall play has been horribly inconsistent, and on numerous occasions since December the team has shown absolutely no effort or desire.

And seeing Braydon Coburn contribute rather well while playing big minutes in Philly makes me question Mc’s ability to develop (and assess) young talent.

No, we need to bring in an outsider, one who can install an actual system for the players to follow and one who can stand up to DW (or, hopefully, the new GM).

By hockey coach

February 26, 2008 6:16 PM | Link to this

Ownership stinks, coaching stinks and frankly most of the players stink. Wadell stripped the team this past year by letting key contributors go. Bad signings of free agents have not helped in the past two years as well. There is no size and not enough speed. We get beat in the corners constantly and until we get some defense players with some size and forwards that know how to backcheck we are gonna get outshot 10-20 shots every game. Powerplay stinks, DW thinks you can just dump the puck in the corners and work it around. What happens to movement and screens ? You got to move even if you do not have the puck. I am just digusted. What I thought was gonna be a promising team is a team that is stuck in a rut and no signs of improvement. The ASG could not manage a hotdog stand. Look at their teams. How long do we as fans and ticket holders have to wait for a consistant playoff caliber team?

By sisu

February 26, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this

So what happened to the Thrashers being buyers????? We had 6 mil in cap room and lowered our pay roll!!!! ASG, you do not care about hockey, please sell the team! The deal made is okay, wait and see I suppose. BUT ALL ALONG WE WERE GOING TO ADD A PLAYER OR TWO! WTF

By Rich Rosenbaum

February 26, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this

I’m live in and from Pittsburgh and was curious to see what the folks in Atlanta thought about this deal. I’m happy and sorry at the same time. Overall, it was a great trade day for the Pens because of the addition of Hal Gill in a deal with Toronto. and of course Hossa.

For those of you that know hockey, Armstrong and Christensen have huge potential. They’re actually very productive right now. If you want a slam-dunk for the shoot out, EC is your man. I’m not sure if has missed all season. I honestly don’t know much about Esposito.

Now adding the package you got for the one we got, I think it was fair, and at least the Pens got more of what they need. EC and CA are huge in the community, and very well liked as well as their talent in hockey.

If we don’t win or come close to getting the cup this year, it was a bust from our end. I guess we’ll see.

Finally, I can’t imagine the line with Crosby and Hossa - the funny thing is, Hossa will be playing for the Pens before Crosby comes back.

Good luck to the Thrashers.

By bob (other)

February 26, 2008 6:23 PM | Link to this

Folks, DW is not going anywhere.

By Teach

February 26, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this

HABS INSIDE/OUT site says thats alright, we still hate Hotlanta and all American teams side with each other anyways. You will never be able to replace Hossa, as what you received were spare parts only. You gave up most of your prospects last year for a playoff run that the Rangers ended quickly, lmao. Go back to watching Hee Haw.

By Bob Gainey

February 26, 2008 6:37 PM | Link to this

Just to let Atlanta fans know we has a better offer on the table, but Waddell kept upping the ante, and I had to say no to Higgins and Chipchura. My good friend KJ David at Habs inside/out wanted you to know there are no hard feelings, as we will set our sites on ILYA SOON.

By Bob Gainey

February 26, 2008 6:37 PM | Link to this

Just to let Atlanta fans know we has a better offer on the table, but Waddell kept upping the ante, and I had to say no to Higgins and Chipchura. My good friend KJ David at Habs inside/out wanted you to know there are no hard feelings, as we will set our sites on ILYA SOON.

By Bob Gainey

February 26, 2008 6:37 PM | Link to this

Just to let Atlanta fans know we has a better offer on the table, but Waddell kept upping the ante, and I had to say no to Higgins and Chipchura. My good friend KJ David at Habs inside/out wanted you to know there are no hard feelings, as we will set our sites on ILYA SOON.

By Plenty Of Tickets Next Year

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

Hockey Coach, Unfortunately you’re spot on with your assessment. If it’s any comfort, you should know that it’s costing the owners a lot more than you and me to maintain this charade. After many years, I’m dumping my $10,000 committment.

According to the folks in my section should you wish to attend, you won’t have any problems getting tickets next year - to watch them rebuild again… after 8 years.

No thanks.

By Don (Not that one)

February 26, 2008 6:59 PM | Link to this

This trade is a good one, but by the time he pulled it off, he knew what the Caps had done (they pretty much insured the southeast division and took away our chances for a playoff spot). So if that’s the case we went from Buyers to sellers. With Holik, Hedberg, Rechi and others being UFA this summer, it was time to sell, sell, sell. It will be a strong draft class this year, and we’ll mostly just sit there and watch them go to other teams.

Oh well another summer with little real change (oh sure, we’ll lose 4 or 5 player and pick up 4 or 5 that are lower quality). And they really think they can justify RAISING TICKET PRICES.

Well I doubt this will turn the team around, so at least we’ll get 1 good draft pick (2nd round still goes to St. Louis for the Tkachuk fiasco.

By getyourmindright

February 26, 2008 7:08 PM | Link to this

Don Waddell can receive his walking papers or instructions on how to cut and paste a resume on careerbuilder once again he continues to provide this team with midgets on skates excluding armstrong go to TSN.ca and check out the stats on thease guys what defensemen are going to be scared on thease guys on the wing on a forecheck……..none i say it once i say it again GO GLADIATORS if you want old school hockey one ref and two linesman not the NBA on ice we are watching now instead of free throw shots at the line we get power plays all night.

By pensfan9

February 26, 2008 7:26 PM | Link to this

PENS GOT THE BEST PART OF THIS DEAL!…CHRISTIANSON =GOOD ONLY IN SHOOTOUTS…. ARMSTRONG=GOOD ONLY IF HE PLAYES WITH CROSBY…ESPO=UNPROOVEN…PERIOD!

By Fed Up

February 26, 2008 7:31 PM | Link to this

The GM has to go. All we get is 2 third line players, Espo (who was projected to be a top five pick and dropped all the way to twenty and has been cut three straight years from the Canadian Junior team - is that a red flag or what?) and a first rounder that this GM won’t know what to do with. This GM should have been fired long ago. One pitiful playoff appearance in all these years. The only thing worse is the ownership. I went through the Flames leaving town years ago and miss them more than ever.

By Casey

February 26, 2008 7:32 PM | Link to this

How can anyone say this is a bad deal for the Thrashers? Hossa would have been here for 19 more games, and he would have been gone. We would have gotten nothing. Hossa has had a down year. The team is not playing that well right now. They had to make a move. We got 2 young talented NHL players who can help right now. We got a 19 yr old 1st rounder and a future 1st round pick. I like Hossa, but the guy is not worth all that, not for just 19 more games!

Why on earth would the Thrashers want to trade away Holik, Recchi, and Hedberg? Especially Hedberg? They can still make the playoffs. Any GM who would trade away a good backup goalie with the team trying to make the playoffs would be fired the next day.

By john

February 26, 2008 8:06 PM | Link to this

I believe in Hossa! . . wait a minute, he’s not longer on the team.

By sisu

February 26, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this

Casey, you are forgetting who owns the team, basketball owners. They go out and dish out $14 mil on a player for the NBA team and cannot sign a $7 mil player for Thrashers. Sort of like the Thrashers are the Robin Hood for the other team. Don’t be surprised to receive calls for renewals after the March deadline…Moron’s

By stendec

February 26, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this

Hi Craig. I will be in the minority in what I am about to say but so be it. I would rather field a team WITH NO superstar than one which has been completely neutralized. I would much rather see a team of above average players busting their buns every time they hit the ice than a franchise player who may score a load of goals one outing then go silent for games on end. It is much easier to game plan defensively for ONE player than 20! Shut down Ilya Kovalchuk and Thrashers are impotent. Same with my beloved Calgary Flames and that Iggy guy. Supporting cast goals scored from time to time not nearly enough! Much rather have four players with 15 goals each than one with 60. I like and respect IK but he will never be a one-man team. No one can. Not even Wayne Gretzky was. Although he and came close! Anyone else in tune with these sentiments? Oh well. Getting primed for big showdown later. Will Thrashers go bellyup again? Will Letemin exit LaLa Land long enough to make a few saves? If he plays! Stay tuned to same bat channel at same bat time. GO BLUE!

By PensFan

February 26, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this

As a penguins fan I think both teams made out well. Pittsburgh got the talent to join Crosby and Malkin. Atlanta got a great player and character in Colby Armstrong. He was a fan favorite in Pittsburgh and I am sure he will thrive in Atlanta.

By hungryforthecup

February 26, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this

Good trade ,Hossa shrank in the playoffs and ragged the team for being inconsistant while putting up sub par numbers . All my hot air aside it makes the Heatley trade still sting .

By Joe

February 26, 2008 8:59 PM | Link to this

I am from Pittsburgh and follow the Pens close. Great deal for both teams. Armstrong is a strong two way player who will drop the gloves. Great penalty killer and will score 15 goals a year. Christensen is a silky skater with a wicked shot. Also a 15 goal scorer with lots of upside. He is also Pittsburghs best player in shot outs. Sick hands! If Espositio is a bit of an enigma. If he plays to his potential….he is a first line center with 30 goals a year potential. He was originally projected as a top five draft pick in last years draft. Slipped to 20th based upon concerns of work ethic. Throw in a first round draft pick in a very good and deep draft. This is a good trade for the Thrashers. For the Pens…. Hossa is a top five forward. But if they don’t resign, then this is a costly deal. Throw in Dupuis and this could make the Pens serious contenders to skate Lord Stanleys cup.

By Joe

February 26, 2008 8:59 PM | Link to this

I am from Pittsburgh and follow the Pens close. Great deal for both teams. Armstrong is a strong two way player who will drop the gloves. Great penalty killer and will score 15 goals a year. Christensen is a silky skater with a wicked shot. Also a 15 goal scorer with lots of upside. He is also Pittsburghs best player in shot outs. Sick hands! If Espositio is a bit of an enigma. If he plays to his potential….he is a first line center with 30 goals a year potential. He was originally projected as a top five draft pick in last years draft. Slipped to 20th based upon concerns of work ethic. Throw in a first round draft pick in a very good and deep draft. This is a good trade for the Thrashers. For the Pens…. Hossa is a top five forward. But if they don’t resign, then this is a costly deal. Throw in Dupuis and this could make the Pens serious contenders to skate Lord Stanleys cup.

By Casey

February 26, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this

The bottom line is Waddell did the best he possibly could with the situation he had. In the long run I am certain this is best for the team. I actually believe this could be good for the current team. Let’s face it. The team has been flat. The way things were going they weren’t going to the playoffs. Maybe, this will give the team a boost, and we’ll get into the playoffs.

By David

February 26, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this

I have a simple question: How many more years of dragging the team down by failing to negotiate deal s on good players (IE: Andrew Brunnette, Donald Audette, Mark Savard, Marian Hossa, Darcy Hordichuck,Michael Garnett) ANd spending big Money on Losers ( Daimian Rhodes, Byron Dafoe, Mike Dunham, Hedberg, Ruchin) is Don Waddell going to get. Every time the team sucks, either a mediocre coach Like Kurt Frasier or an excellent Coach like Bob Hartley takes the rap while Dumb a* Waddell gets yet another Chance.

We fail tyo bringup any players from our AHL, and ECHL affiliates. We fail to secure a power Center. We fail to secure big Defensemen.

And for the first time We are going to end up worse than the previous season.

Maybe Don is good at saving money, and you see where that is going.

I have been a fan since the first game, I proudly display in my office a shirt from opening game oct, 2 99 have seen the team through thick and thin( mainly thin) I implore you save my team! Let that Dumb a* go. We need a new coach and a New GM.

By HOHOHO Don's Gotta Go!

February 26, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this

Q: What’s the difference between my bowel and Waddell?

A: They both stink but my bowel knows when it’s time to go.

By zach

February 26, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this

This was both a salary dump and a chance to grab some younger players.

By WW4

February 26, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this

SHOULD HAVE DUMPED LETEMIN WHILE SOMEONE STILL THINKS THIS GUY IS A GOOD GOALTENDER. DAMIEN-IS THIS YOUR SON!

By Casey

February 26, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this

David,

What have Brunette, Hordichuk, Audette, and Garnett done since we traded them? Yes, losing Savard hurt, but we were in the same situation then that we were today with Hossa. But the other guys? Give me a break. You are actually making a good case in favor of Don Waddell.

By Brendan

February 26, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this

Oh Mercy!, HOHOHO.

Attention Penguin fans: You got two very good players today. But let tell you what I think you’ll see. From here on out, you will Love Marian Hossa. You’ll be filled with thoughts something like, “How could we NOT win the Cup!!” And with Dupuis, you’ll think, “Ehhh, okay I guess.” But come playoff time, everything will reverse. You’ll need binoculars to find Hossa, since he disappears in the REAL SEASON. While Dupuis will be a speedy, tenacious buzzsaw, who can kill penalties, score short-handed goals, and play with passion. Check out playoff highlights from 2003, when Dupuis was with Minnesota. He scored some big goals and played great. You’re going to want to re-sign Dupuis in the offseason … while at $8 million, you may just decide, “Thanks, but no thanks” to Marian Hossa.

During the regular season, Marian Hossa is one of the ten best players in the league. An annual “Selke Trophy” candidate. Nice guy. Personable. Great with fans. Disappears in the playoffs. Picks and chooses which games he gets up for. In the end, you’ll find a whole lot better ways to spend $8 million, which ISSS his “market value.”

By Brendan

February 26, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this

Casey, I don’t want to speak for David, but I think what he’s driving at is this: Whenever he held a player who was contributing successfully, we let him walk. Add S. Staios, J. Cowan, F. Kaberle to the list. At the time we had Audette, he was our goal scoring leader. In short, he was WHAT WAS WORKING. So, why didn’t we retain him? Andrew Brunette wasn’t exactly “lighting it up” here, but there was no real reason to “quit” on him, either. This season, I think his salary is $1.6 million, or thereabouts. What a steal! But bear in mind, Atlanta let Brunette go something like six years ago. You have to look at this as a “progression,” rather than, “Gee, would we still want these players today, NOW, as “older” players? Do you see David’s point, now? There was a whole “zero sum” economic strategy going on. Whereas, we should have been “adding” players every year, rather than treading water, dumping one and acquiring another. The first time this team ever made a serious stance towards building a playoff contender … was immediately after the lockout. Truthfully, with a “healthy” Kari Lehtonen and a “healthy” Pasi Nurminen … that team might have won a playoff series. Instead, it missed the playoffs by two-points. It was very frustrating. That “lockout team” was built with a three-year “window of opportunity.” The window has now closed, with zero playoffs wins.

It is … what it is. Today’s trade is the FIRST STEP towards rebuilding “correctly” this time.

By mrdonut

February 26, 2008 11:02 PM | Link to this

The trade is a big joke. More backward steps. At this rate the team is going to wind up in the Gulf Of Mexico. Oh, its a good place for them. How long have they been here and they arew still the jike i=of the league. Look at Pittsbiugh, no money, no arena, and theyare one of the most exciting teams in the league. Whata’s the diff., MANAGEMENT,

By mrdonut